Dreamworld Book Reviews

Love in a Carry-On Bag by Sadeqa Johnson

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 07:49:00 +0000

Photo courtesy of SadeqaJohnson.com

Release Date: March 2012

Love in a Carry-On Bag is Sadeqa Johnson's debut novel. Johnson is a former public relations manager and is currently a managing partner of the 12th Street Press publishing company.

Dreamworld's Synopsis

Sexy, smart, and driven, successful publicist Erica Shaw loves spending time with her equally sexy boyfriend, Warren Prince - an intelligent and aspiring jazz musician by night, and computer engineer by day. When she can manage to escape her demanding job at a major publishing company, Erica meets up with Warren as much as time permits; however, living in New York City often presents difficulty attending dates and rendezvous with Warren, especially since Warren lives hours away in Washington, D.C.

Desperately in love with one another, but dedicated to their professional dreams and lives, Erica and Warren often experience frequent lover's quarrels, communication breakdowns, and lots of time apart as they each cope with other challenges in their personal and professional lives.

As time passes, Erica and Warren must find the time in their respective, busy lives to evaluate and rearrange their priorities, especially if they want to remain a couple.

Dreamworld's Review

Love in a Carry-On Bag is an engaging read because it's real, and incredibly easy to relate to. Although this novel falls into the contemporary/urban romance genre, there are no goofy sub-plots or melodrama that appear outlandishly fiction, and this is why I think the book is charming and sweet. Any reader who has experience with relationships, regardless of whether they have been long-distance or not, will understand and relate to the problems Erica and Warren each face regarding their emotional, and physical, distances from one another.

Johnson switches between Erica and Warren's point of views throughout Love in a Carry-On Bag, providing us with an up-close and personal perspective on the challenges each character faces. What I enjoy most about Love in a Carry-On Bag is the way each character feels familiar, and the way each handles their very real-life series of crises to the best of their ability. Neither character is perfect and mature 100% of the time, which makes them even more real and endearing.

Johnson's writing really comes to life in chapter 3, entitled "Publicity 101," which is about 20 or so pages into Love in a Carry-On Bag. This particular chapter describes a full day's work for Erica at her publishing company, and in addition to revealing much about Erica's background and interests, reveals Johnson's enthusiasm for her own craft - reading and writing. With the major change in Johnson's flow beginning in chapter 3, you'll most likely be indefinitely hooked from that point forward.

Given that Love in a Carry-On Bag primarily focuses on the tribulations of long-distance romance, Johnson writes the settings of D.C. and New York appropriately vivid and descriptive, which magnifies the intensity of Erica and Warren's convincing story. Johnson also makes great use of pop-culture, jazz, and literary references throughout the novel to please and entertain a wide array of readers.

Dreamworld's Recommendation

Fans of the romance genre will definitely enjoy Love in a Carry-On Bag, especially those who particularly love reading the contemporary or urban romance genres. The sex scenes are gritty and sexy - though real - as is the chemistry and overall relationship between Erica and Warren.

Fans of contemporary romance authors Nora Roberts and Barbara Bretton may also enjoy the brutally honest and sweet story between Erica and Warren in Love in a Carry-On Bag.

Click on the images of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com!

What are your favorite urban romance novels? Did you read Love in a Carry-On Bag, and if so, what did you think?

The Freakshow by Bryan Smith

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 06:54:00 +0000

Photo courtesy of fantasticfiction.co.uk

Released: April 2007

Bryan Smith's The Freakshow is a horror novel that falls within the "splatterpunk" sub-genre. For those of you unfamiliar with the term "splatterpunk," it means that books that fall within this sub-genre contain graphic and explicitly violent horror and pornographic scenes. My Bookcrossing book-relay trading buddies also referred to this genre as the "sick shit" genre before the term splatterpunk really caught on in a major way.

Dreamworld's Synopsis

In the small town of Pleasant Hills, Tennessee, a freakshow carnival has arrived to entertain the bored locals who have nothing better to do other than clean their rifles. However, the REAL reason the carnival has arrived, is to kill the town's inhabitants and replace them with Stepford-wife type drones in order to empower the dimension the freaks come from. Caught in the middle of some crazy, weird, and perverted super-violent, disturbing action, a few brave characters take on the freakshow monsters so they can save the town - and themselves.

Dreamworld's Review

As a seasoned reader familiar with the typical horror-plot "formula," The Freakshow completely took me by surprise. I had no idea this novel fell into the splatterpunk genre I've been hearing so much about until I took the time to read reviews written by other readers.

Chapter 1 leads us right into action - and it never stops. I was expecting a gruesome first chapter, with chapter 2 leading us into the background and development of the heroes destined to save the hick town of Pleasant Hills, but no, The Freakshow is pretty much 100% action until the book's last sentence.

The gritty, explicit violence and pornographic details are horrific indeed, yet, it was hard to turn away. The Freakshow's plot is random and unpredictable, which is always a plus, though it genuinely is pure gore the entire way through.

I got a kick out of Smith's consistent use of the word "organic." Everything was "organic" in this novel, including the organic controls in the massive spider control room (don't ask). Although the term "organic" relates to anything alive, I couldn't help but think of organic food every time it was mentioned. Organic matter. Yummy.

I've got to admit - I do have a sick mind to a certain degree, so I enjoyed my time with The Freakshow. The novel makes for a great conversational piece and is definitely unforgettable. I'm not sure I will ever get into a Lincoln Towncar again without taking my eyes off the gear stick and thinking about this novel. It will be awhile before I pick up any other splatterpunk to read, but when I do, Bryan Smith will be my go-to author.

Dreamworld's Recommendation

Splatterpunk and hard-core horror fans - YES!
Readers looking for some sick shit fiction - YES!
Everyone else - NO. You might have nightmares for the rest of your life.
Don't read The Freakshow unless you have a stomach made from steel, and DON'T recommend this novel to your friends unless they are confirmed splatterpunk fans. Your friends and family might never speak to you again if you don't warn them first!

Bryan Smith's other novels include Kayla And The Devil (2011), Soultaker (2009), The Killing Kind (2010), and Depraved (2009).

Click on any image below to review the book in more detail on Amazon.com.

What are your splatterpunk favorites? What are your favorite novels by Bryan Smith?

The Glasswrights' Apprentice by Mindy L. Klasky

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:14:00 +0000

Photo courtesy of openlibrary.org

Released: July 2000

The Glasswrights' Apprentice is the 1st novel out of 5 in the "Glasswrights' Guild" fantasy series by Mindy L. Klasky. Klasky is also the author of the "Jane Madison" series, which starts with Girl's Guide To Witchcraft (2006).

Dreamworld's Synopsis

13-year old Rani Trader is a daughter in a typical merchant's family, but is currently serving as an apprentice in the Glasswrights' Guild; a guild higher in society than that of the Merchants' Guild, and one that promises future riches and higher respect for Rani and her family. When Rani is conspiratorially blamed for the death of the kingdom's successive prince, she has no choice but to flee for safety; not only because she was recognized at the scene of the crime, but also because her guild is being blamed for the prince's murder.

On her quest to prove that she is not personally guilty for the prince's death, Rani manages to make allies with other guilds and caste systems in her kingdom, but at the same time is presented with the difficult task of determining in whom she can sincerely trust. Soon enough, Rani learns of a secret, deadly, and horrific brotherhood in the kingdom - a brotherhood on a mission to kill everybody in the royal family.

Dreamworld's Review

The Glasswrights' Apprentice is fantasy in the sense that the world, society, religion, and caste systems in the novel are fantasy - there are no crazy dragons, goblins, or other types of mythical and mystical beings. The novel has a very medieval feel to it, and is action-packed from beginning to end as Rani runs from the king's soldiers and members of the brotherhood.

The story and plot of The Glasswrights' Apprentice is highly creative and crafty; resulting in an indelible experience you'll be dying to share with other readers - even those who don't typically enjoy the fantasy genre. This novel will keep you on your toes and in a page-turning trance from start to finish.

Since Rani is only 13 years old in The Glasswrights' Apprentice, scenes that contain violence and sexual undertones appear to be softly muted and lack intensity; but as a reader, you can't help but hunger for more explicit detail in these areas. Klasky also seems to have targeted young adults and teens for this book's audience, so with that said, I'm hoping the next 4 books in the series become progressively more intense!

My only struggle while reading The Glasswrights' Apprentice was my inability to comprehend some of the speech patterns practiced by the lowest caste known as "Touched," a group that speaks in some weird version of English cockney (or whatever this type of lingo is called). With the odd spelling and linguistic phrasing, my reading was slowed down significantly for the sake of comprehension, but other than that small gripe, I loved this novel!

Dreamworld's Recommendation

Fans of all fantasy sub-genres - men and women alike - will love The Glasswrights' Apprentice. Readers who typically avoid the fantasy genre will also enjoy this novel, especially those that enjoy a good conspiracy plot, political uprisings, and mysteries.

I've already got book 2 of this series on my bookshelf, waiting to be read. I purchased the book within a week of finishing The Glasswrights' Apprentice, meaning I am legitimately excited to read it.

The remaining books in this series are: The Glasswrights' Progress (2001), The Glasswrights' Journeyman (2002), The Glasswrights' Test (2003), and The Glasswrights' Master (2004).

Click on the images of any of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

Have you read any novels by Mindy L. Klasky, and if so, which ones? What are your thoughts?

Winter's Kiss by Jennifer Echols & Catherine Hapka

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 21:04:00 +0000

Photo courtesy of FantasticFiction.co.uk

Released: January 2012

Winter's Kiss is an omnibus that contains 2 young adult novels: The Ex Games (2009) by Jennifer Echols and The Twelve Dates of Christmas (2008) by Catherine Hapka.

Dreamworld's Synopsis

The Ex Games
High-schoolers Hayden and Nick have built up quite the tension between them over the past several years; especially since the rich, handsome Nick was dared by his friends to take Hayden on a date back in the 7th grade. Now, 4 years later, the 2 ex-lovebirds consider themselves friends, but sparks still manage to fly when in each other's presence. When Hayden and Nick engage in a major snowboarding competition against one another, their friendly relationship suddenly becomes more heated than ever before, causing them to re-evaluate their true feelings for one another.

The Twelve Dates of Christmas
Studious, brainiac Lexi has been dating the kind, polite, caring, and supportive Cameron for the majority of her teenage years, and their relationship couldn't be stronger. However, the ambitious Lexi has her sight set on college, and knows that she can't possibly maintain her relationship with Cameron if he stays behind in their hometown after they graduate from high school. Lexi then comes up with the brilliant plan of staging their breakup by indirectly encouraging Cameron to begin dating other girls so he can painlessly move on. When Cameron starts dating the bubbly, cute, and sweet new girl in town named Jaylene, Lexi begins to second-guess the choice she has made.

Dreamworld's Review

Winter's Kiss definitely falls into the young adult (YA) genre and doesn't exactly cross over to the adult genre like other YA books sometimes do, such as The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak (seen below).

While both stories are considered light reading for the most part, The Ex Games is far more intense than The Twelve Dates of Christmas, the latter of which has more of a comical theme. The Ex Games will appeal more to sporty chicks - especially those who have spent time in the mountains snowboarding or skiing; whereas The Twelve Dates of Christmas may appeal more to studious girls who enjoy the topics of science and psychology.

Typical teenage angst is present in both novels in regards to the constant over-analyzing of "Does he, or doesn't he like me?" which becomes tiring after a minute for adult readers; however, I'm sure I would have eaten it up when I was a teenager.

The teenage characters in The Ex Games are majorly sexually charged from a physical standpoint, while the characters in The Twelve Dates of Christmas seem to function more like typical high school students. I was actually a little put-off by the sexuality of the teenagers in The Ex Games, which contains a few steamy scenes that remind me of a few contemporary romance novels I've read under the Harlequin label.

Dreamworld's Recommendation

I definitely recommend Winter's Kiss to pre-teens and teenage girls, but not to adults who typically enjoy reading the YA genre, as they might find the love stories redundant. Readers from snowy regions of the world will appreciate the wintry setting in both novels; especially those who enjoy snowboarding, ice skating, and the holiday season specifically.

To mothers with teenage daughters: there are no explicit sex scenes or anything too freaky in Winter's Kiss to worry about, but the sexual tension in The Ex Games may be a bit much, or melodramatic to say the least, for your daughter.

Jennifer Echols' latest novels are entitled Such a Rush (July 2012), The One That I Want (2012), and Love Story (2011). Catherine Hapka's latest YA novels are At First Sight (2010) and Love on Cue (2009).

Click on the images of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

What are your favorite YA love stories? Do you have any recommendations?

Four of a Kind by Valerie Frankel

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 05:27:00 +0000

Photo courtesy of Borders.com

Release Date: February 2012

Valerie Frankel has written several novels and series geared toward women and teenage audiences. Four of a Kind is her latest novel.

Dreamworld's Synopsis

While attending a routine "Diversity Committee" meeting for their children's private school in Brooklyn, New York, 4 bored women that couldn't be more different from one another size each other up and decide to lighten the mood by sharing a few drinks and playing a round of Texas Hold'em poker. However, once the women loosen up, traditional Texas Hold'em rules are thrown out the window and "Brooklyn Hold'em" is introduced; a game in which every player must gamble by revealing deep, dark secrets about themselves.

Four of a Kind then segues into the individual, enrapturing stories of all 4 women. There is Alicia, a sex-crazed and horny married woman whose husband no longer indulges in sexual activity with her; Robin, an obese-turned-skinny woman struggling to keep the identity of her daughter's father secret; Bess, a beautiful head-turner with the hottest, sexiest husband on the planet who gives her too MUCH sex; and finally, Carla, an African-American doctor married to an over-bearing and chauvinistic husband.

When their weekly Brooklyn Hold'em games become the main activity each woman eagerly looks forward to, they develop powerful relationships with one another that eventually influences each woman in the group to become better and stronger than ever before.

Dreamworld's Review

Four of a Kind is guaranteed to please all women readers of all ages, and will have you hooked completely by the end of chapter 1. Since each character is completely different from the other, you'll find yourself connecting with or relating to at least one of the women in the book. In addition to having a rich plot, Four of a Kind is deliciously raw and naughty, and will definitely satisfy your every craving if seeking an exemplary chick-lit novel.

Each chapter in the book is told from a specific woman's point of view, so we get to know each main character quite intimately. Texas Hold'em poker fans will absolutely eat this one up! I could hardly believe my luck when I stumbled upon Four of a Kind, being an avid player and tournament participant myself! It was hard for me not to like this book just from the poker standpoint alone.

Frankel even includes a poker game guide and glossary of terms at the end of Four of a Kind, which is very helpful (and entertaining) for those readers needing tips about poker rules and guidelines.

Dreamworld's Recommendation

I loved Four of a Kind, and recommend it to all readers meeting the following criteria: chick-lit fans, mainstream fiction and literature fans, Texas Hold'em junkies, and women specifically between the ages of 30 and 50. This book will cheer up anybody in a low or bad mood, which is always a bonus.

This novel has been compared to Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons by Lorna Landvik and Brava, Valentine by Adriana Trigiani. Since I haven't read either of these novels, I can't really endorse or clarify the comparison. However, if you enjoyed Beth Harbison's Shoe Addicts Anonymous and Secrets of a Shoe Addict, you will definitely enjoy Four of a Kind.

Click on the images of any of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

Here are our reviews of Beth Harbison's books:
Dreamworld Book Reviews - Shoe Addicts Anonymous
Dreamworld Book Reviews - Secrets of a Shoe Addict

Have you read any other books by Valerie Frankel? If so, what did you think? Did you enjoy reading Four of a Kind?

Spin by Catherine McKenzie

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:48:00 +0000

Photo courtesy of catherinemckenzie.com

Release Date: February 2012

Catherine McKenzie is the author of the international bestsellers Spin and Arranged, and is soon releasing her third novel, Forgotten. Although Spin and Arranged have already been released in Canada, they are becoming repackaged and released for sale in the United States.

Dreamworld's Synopsis

30-year old Kate Sandford's life-long career dream is becoming a writer for her favorite music magazine called The Line (the equivalent to our beloved Rolling Stone Magazine). When Kate lands an interview for her dream job, she is so ecstatic that she ventures out to celebrate her upcoming opportunity by drinking the night away - the night before her interview.

Arriving late to her interview and still drunk from the night before, Kate makes a fool of herself in front of the panel of editors, who are led to believe by her actions that Kate is a major alcoholic. Not all hope is lost, however, when Kate is later approached by the editing team from The Line and given another chance to redeem herself. The only catch though, is that Kate must submit a gossip column piece on a major celebrity who is attending rehab - and Kate must enroll in rehab herself to report on the celebrity and to be reconsidered for a position with The Line.

As Kate undergoes rehabilitation for her alcoholism, she unexpectedly develops a handful of close friendships with people that may potentially end up getting hurt from her undercover project. Kate must then determine whether or not working for The Line is a sacrifice worth making in exchange for her new friendships.

Dreamworld's Review

At first glance, Spin seems to be a parody about a 30-something woman's binge-drinking life and the careless, selfish ways in which she manipulates and takes advantage of her friends. The events leading up to Kate's disastrous interview are pretty sickening and pathetic, though funny. Spin doesn't become addicting (haha, no pun intended!) until Kate evaluates her drinking problem shortly after arriving at rehab and realizes that she really IS a genuine alcoholic! McKenzie positions this very discovery in a manner that allows her readers to learn of this fact at the same time Kate does; resulting in our having new respect for Kate and renewed interest in a plot that will actually lead to the healthy development of our main heroine.

The pop-culture aspect of Spin is also very fun, and provides us with a deeper glimpse into Kate's personality in regards to her taste in music. I actually went out and downloaded a few of the tunes mentioned in the novel so I could feel more involved with the story as I was reading it. I had the same reaction when I read Mark Z. Danielewski's House of Leaves and listened to his sister Poe's Haunted album (seen below), which went along with the book. McKenzie even provides readers with Kate's playlist at the end of Spin. How neat is that?!

Best of all, the details of Spin's final outcome are unpredictable and satisfying. It's always nice to walk away from a book and realize that in the days since you read it, you are remembering bits and pieces you enjoyed and can relate to.

Dreamworld's Recommendation

Readers who enjoy the chick-lit, romance, and fiction genres will absolutely love Spin. Adults who like to read teen and young-adult (YA) books will also like Spin because the style is very similar in regards to tone and humor.

More specifically, women who have had wild drinking nights and horrifying interview experiences in their lifetime will also appreciate the brutal honesty of Spin and Kate's transformation. I will reluctantly admit that I can personally relate, which is probably another reason I enjoyed the novel so much!

Click on the pictures of the images below to review these items in more detail on Amazon.com.

Does Spin remind you of any other novels you have read? If so, which ones?

False Dawn by Chelsea Quinn Yarbro

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:06:00 +0000

Photo courtesy of OpenLibrary.org

Released: 1978

Chelsea Quinn Yarbro is a prolific, long-time author of various horror, fantasy, and sci-fi novels and is best known for her Saint-Germain series. False Dawn is one of her many stand-alone science-fiction novels.

Dreamworld's Synopsis

Set near the beginning of a post-apocalyptic 21st century in northern California, the novel opens immediately onto our heroine named Thea, who is running from a band of vagrant men known as "Pirates" - a league of highly violent and dangerous men on a mission to kill all remaining mutants in the region. Thea - a mutant woman in her 20s - is intent on traveling by foot eastward to a place known as Gold Lake, a place not unlike Eden and rumored to provide safe refuge to all mutants from the Pirates.

Along the way, Thea encounters and saves a man named Evan Montague, soon learning that Evan had once led the Pirates, but is now their most hated enemy. Now running from the Pirates together, Thea and Evan embark on the journey eastward to Gold Lake while establishing a trusting relationship along the way. After getting to know one another and making a series of sacrifices to keep the other alive, Thea and Evan forge an unlikely bond that sees them through their very scary and treacherous journey.

Dreamworld's Review

False Dawn will have horror and science-fiction fans alike engrossed by the end of page 1, which describes Thea watching a bruised and battered mutant woman hanging from a billboard seconds away from being ravaged by rabid and hungry dogs. The fast-paced novel then leads us through a series of action-packed, horrifying events that are described in such grisly detail and don't leave much to the imagination.

For such a short novel (just slightly over 200 pages), False Dawn really gives readers a strong, vivid picture of Thea and Evan's world and makes you ache right along with them for better times past. The relationship that develops between Thea and Evan is respectable and sweet without being too obvious, and is not over-the-limit sappy or ridiculous given the state of the world they live in.

False Dawn's ending is quite abrupt and may leave you feel cheated - especially since it appears Thea and Evan's journey is not quite over in regards to the search for indefinite peace. Is the book memorable? Yes indeed, and first-time readers of Yarbro's work (such as myself) will clamber for more titles by this very esteemed and seemingly underrated author. I'm actually a little miffed that I haven't been able to find many reviews by book bloggers raving about Yarbro. Guess I'll have to start a new trend!

Dreamworld's Recommendation

False Dawn will highly appeal to all fans of horror and science-fiction. Remember the movie Cyborg with Jean-Claude Van Damme (1989)? This novel reminded me very much of that very movie! I loved my experience with False Dawn, and was glad to have read it when I did.

I DEFINITELY plan on reading as many of Yarbro's books as I can, beginning with the 1st book of the Saint-Germain series entitled Hotel Transylvania (1978). Books 2 and 3 in the Saint-German series are The Palace (1978) and Blood Games (1980) respectively, and Yarbro's newest release from the series will be book 25 entitled Commedia Della Morte, scheduled to release in March 2012.

Click on the pictures of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

What are your favorite Chelsea Quinn Yarbro books? Have you recently read any post-apocalyptic books that you enjoyed, and if so, what are their titles?

Too Wilde to Tame by Janelle Denison

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:22:00 +0000

Photo courtesy of Tower.com

Released: September 2005

Janelle Denison's Too Wilde to Tame is the 7th book in the Wilde series - a series in which each novel focuses on a member of the Wilde family. Although this novel is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone novel.

Dreamworld's Synopsis

Mia Wilde lives up to her name in regards to being wild in various ways - by brandishing a sassy attitude to people constantly, dancing with strangers at the club, and joining wet t-shirt contests. However, although Mia puts on a front to make people believe she is wild, she is actually just a kind, sweet person and talented, aspiring stained-glass artist waiting for Mr. Right to come along.

When Mia begins to receive disturbing letters and pictures of herself in the mail accusing her of being a trampy slut and whore, she seeks help from Cameron Sinclair, a sexy private investigator with whom she has a history of mild flirtation. After they begin spending time together, private investigation is not the only business going on between Mia and Cameron - especially since their sexual chemistry lands them in the bedroom nearly every time they see each other.

Mia and Cameron's bedroom appetite eventually leads the two sex maniacs to develop true and genuine feelings for one another, but Mia is intent on continuing with her charade and wild-girl image to prevent herself from getting hurt from an emotional standpoint. Does Mia end up with Cameron, or does she stick to being a wild-child?

Dreamworld's Review

When Too Wilde to Tame opens from Cameron's point of view in the dance club where he encounters Mia, you'll most likely hate Mia from the get-go - after all, she does seem really trampy and slutty, not to mention stuck-up and annoying. However, once we read the book from Mia's point of view starting in Chapter 2, we begin to warm up to the harlot. Her character is actually not too different from many beautiful club-hopping girls who know they can get any man they want. In other words, it won't take too long for Mia to grow on you.

Romance fans who really enjoy reading hot, steamy, borderline-erotica sex will love Too Wilde to Tame because Mia and Cameron get hot and heavy in nearly every chapter. As a bonus, the sex scenes contain a satisfying variety because Mia and Cameron rarely perform the same sex acts and positions twice.

Denison writes a smart and snappy contemporary romance novel! Although the mystery behind the identity of the person sending Mia the offensive letters and photographs is predictable, anticipating the inevitable face-off between the characters is fun to look forward to.

For a second there, I was pretty sure Denison was going to end the novel with happily-ever-after for Mia and Cameron, but I suppose every romance novel is not without its lover's tiff. I was hoping she would break the mold with happily-ever-after and no fighting.

Dreamworld's Recommendation

YES! I highly recommend Too Wilde to Tame to all contemporary romance fans and fans of the romance genre in general. For those who prefer romance with mild sex content, beware that this novel contains a lot of juicy, sexy sex. I've decided I'd like to read the 8th and next book in the series about Joel Wilde called Born to Be Wilde (2007).

Janelle Denison's other books in the Wilde series are Wilde Thing (2003), The Wilde Side (2004), and Wild for Him (2008).

Click on any of the pictures of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

What are your favorite contemporary romance novels? Have you read any of Denison's books, and if so, what did you think?

Death of a Maid by M.C. Beaton

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:29:00 +0000

Released: February 2007

Death of a Maid is the 23rd book in the Hamish MacBeth cozy mystery series by M.C. Beaton.

Dreamworld Synopsis

When a nosy and annoying meddlesome maid named Mrs. Gillespie becomes the victim of a violent crime in the small town of Lochdubh nestled in the Scotland Highlands, constable Hamish MacBeth sets out to investigate and interview the local townies. Hamish soon learns that Mrs. Gillespie was very skilled in the blackmailing department, and her long list of "victims" is equal to the number of suspects he must interrogate for her murder.

In addition to having to handle the murder investigation, Hamish must cope with being around his ex-girlfriend Elspeth Grant; a reporter who has returned to Lochdubh for a short vacation. When she brings along a male co-worker specifically to make Hamish jealous, he begins to question whether he is still harboring feelings for his long-time love Priscilla Halburton-Smythe, or if he is still attracted to Elspeth.

Dreamworld Review

If you're already familiar with the Hamish MacBeth series, Death of a Maid will have you in stitches! The usual comic relief is present, and reading about Hamish meddling with the annoying and cantankerous townspeople is always enjoyable, especially when he makes a point of irritating them.

Hamish's ongoing love dilemma is also entertaining - though I am curious to see where Beaton goes with his love-life. Agatha Raisin (the main character from Beaton's other series) also stays forever-single, so maybe the author just likes to keep her main characters unattainable so they are more appealing to readers.

My favorite sub-plot in Death of a Maid is when Detective Chief Inspector Blair - Hamish's colleague and rival - convinces a television crew to feature Hamish in an upcoming documentary about successful detectives, with high hopes that Hamish will finally be transferred to a station outside Lochdubh. The plan backfires of course, when Hamish turns the tables and convinces the television crew that Blair is the superior detective. Too funny.

Following Death of a Maid in the Hamish MacBeth series is Death of a Gentle Lady (2008), Death of a Witch (2009), Death of a Valentine (2009), and Death of a Chimney Sweep (2011).

Click on the pictures of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

What are your favorite Hamish MacBeth books? What do you think about M.C. Beaton's Agatha Raisin series?

Daughter of the Blood by Anne Bishop

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 01:07:00 +0000

Released: March 1998

Daughter of the Blood is the first book in the "Black Jewels" trilogy by Anne Bishop; the world and concept of which has also spawned 6 additional books under the "Black Jewels" theme.

Dreamworld Synopsis

In a world with 3 different Realms, women rule as Queens and witches; whereas men are always secondary in hierarchy to women. One night, a fortune-teller in one of the Realms sees in her visions a witch rising to the status of Queen; however, this witch is to be known as Witch (with a capital W!), the most powerful woman the Realms may ever see in their lifetime.

When Witch finally arrives and her presence becomes known, she is just an innocent young girl named Jaenelle who is aware that she has powers nobody else possesses. Jaenelle then travels between the Realms to seek guidance from Saetan - the ruler of the Dark Realm - for training on ways to use and control her powers. Jaenelle also connects with Saetan's sons Daemon and Lucivar, who reside in the other 2 Realms. Upon meeting Jaenelle, both men know they are meant to love and serve her; but they must work together with their estranged father to protect Jaenelle before others break her of her innocence and she loses her powers forever.

Dreamworld Review

Daughter of the Blood is one of the most colorful, vivid fantasy novels I've ever read in the genre! In all actuality, Bishop's talents are superior to others across all genres because not only can she write in a way that allows you to vision her world clearly, but a fantasy world at that, which contains the most bizarre otherworldly elements. The compliment I pay to Bishop is quite a large one; especially since I normally struggle through fantasies feeling lost and unable to grasp a clear picture of the fictional, fantasy universe in question.

Daughter of the Blood is the beginning of what is laid out to be a deep, complex saga, which is a major part of its appeal. The character development is so rich in this novel that it nearly makes me tremble in anticipation for the next 2 books in the series!

Before setting out to write the review on Daughter of the Blood, I visited the sites of other bloggers and reviewers to read their opinions on the book. I was surprised to find that most readers feel that the books are too violent, dark, and evil; especially in regards to the sexual ownership and slaving of some of the men and women characters. I, however, feel that Bishop's hierarchy and caste system are original, clever, and disturbingly sexy; which is exactly why I enjoyed the novel! In some cases, without these horrific elements, your characters cannot grow and develop in ways you need them to; especially if you plan on penning an entire series.

Anne Bishop's Black Jewels trilogy will be enjoyed by hard-core fantasy fans and fans of erotica or bondage/discipline/sadism/masochism (BDSM). Those who enjoy light fantasy leaning toward the comedic side may be offended by Daughter of the Blood.

The books that follow Daughter of the Blood in the Black Jewels trilogy are Heir to the Shadows (1999) and Queen of the Darkness (1999). The next books published under this theme are The Invisible Ring (2000) and Dreams Made Flesh (2005).

Click on the pictures of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

Did you read Daughter of the Blood, and if so, what did you think?
What are some of your favorite fantasy series?

The Legacy of Eden by Nelle Davy

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:24:00 +0000

Release Date: February 2012

The Legacy of Eden is Nelle Davy's debut novel, featuring the legacy of an estate named Aurelia - a farm in Iowa.

The novel opens in present-day New York, when Meredith Pincetti receives a letter about the settlement of the Aurelia farm, previously managed by her recently deceased cousin, Cal Hathaway, Jr. Meredith then contacts her sisters regarding the settlement of the estate, and leaves New York to revisit the Iowa farm and gather some of her family's belongings before they are sold. Although readers are under the impression that Meredith's return to Aurelia is highly stressful and upsetting, we do not learn fully why this is so until the end of the novel.

The Legacy of Eden spans between past and present, regaling readers on the history of the farm dating back to the 1940s, when Meredith's grandmother Lavinia marries into the Hathaway family. As the years pass, Lavinia strives to maintain her family's honorable reputation in their Iowa town by means of lies and manipulation, even banning a few family members from Aurelia forever in the process. The novel finally concludes when we learn why Meredith has always had terrible memories about Aurelia and her family.

Although the novel is pure fiction, I felt that The Legacy of Eden read like any other historical tale of a family farm and estate in Iowa, which didn't quite make it memorable or unique. Common problems arise; such as financial difficulties, affairs, lies, and deceit, although none of these factors are made to be very titillating, shocking, or remotely exciting in this particular novel.

The author writes beautifully, using excellent prose and word-choice, but the novel lacks depth and originality. As seems to be an ongoing theme and cliche with "farm" and "legacy" novels, the apex involves family scandal - the details of which I won't reveal here for the sake of spoilers. If you have already read this novel, you will know exactly the type of family scandal to which I am referring. Yep, that one.

Those who enjoy reading about family legacies may not exactly have a great experience with The Legacy of Eden, especially since no one character is intriguing enough to invoke emotion or feeling in the reader.

If you did enjoy The Legacy of Eden, you may also like some earlier works by V.C. Andrews, such as the Heaven Casteel series, the Ruby Landry series, and the Dawn Cutler series. I felt that these novels were definitely very similar.

What are your favorite novels about legacies?

Click on the images of the books below to view them in more detail on Amazon.com.

The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:21:00 +0000

Released: January 2012

The Lions of Little Rock is the second novel by Kristin Levine, the author of The Best Bad Luck I Ever Had (2009).

When Marlee begins her first year of junior high in 1958 Little Rock, Arkansas, in the midst of a time when segregation is causing numerous problems, she is desperate for a nice friend she can talk to other than her older teenaged sister, Judy. Finding a friend will be quite the challenge for Marlee, especially since her shyness prevents her from talking to most people.

Enter Liz, a new girl in town who is incredibly outgoing and direct, and instantly takes a liking to Marlee. When the 2 girls become partners in a major school project, Marlee learns to open up and gain the courage she needs to make their classroom presentation - and to begin talking to more people outside of her comfort zone. One day, Marlee arrives at school to learn that Liz is actually a colored girl masquerading - or more accurately, passing - as a white girl, and has been exiled to the school for colored students.

Marlee and Liz then desperately find ways to reconnect and spend time with each other; even when circumstances become dangerous enough to put themselves and their families in harm's way.

The Lions of Little Rock is a very quick read! Marlee's quirky, first-person narrative and innocent voice is quite addicting; plus, the novel is written in short, 2-3 page chapters that will have every reader racing along - in fact, I was able to finish the book in under 24 hours.

Levine's research on the subject of segregation during this time period is very thorough. Adults and teens alike will enjoy the story, the plot of which will sincerely keep you guessing about the outcome until the very end.

As I read The Lions of Little Rock, I thought of how perfect this book is for teens and young adults from an educational standpoint. The novel is true historical fiction, and is written so tastefully that readers - especially teens - will be dying to learn more about the topic of segregation and civil rights without even realizing it. Books such as these are what sparked my interest in various topics growing up - such as how The House of Dies Drear (1968) by Virginia Hamilton sparked my interest in the Underground Railroad and Harriet Tubman.

I highly recommend The Lions of Little Rock to readers of all ages, and fans of this novel will also enjoy The Dry Grass of August (2011) by Anna Jean Mayhew.

Our review of The Dry Grass of August:
Dreamworld Book Reviews - The Dry Grass of August

What are your favorite novels on the topics of segregation and civil rights?

Have you read Kristin Levine's first novel, The Best Bad Luck I Ever Had?
If so, what did you think?

Click on the pictures of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

Special Agent's Surrender by Carla Cassidy

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 01:50:00 +0000

Released: February 2011

Carla Cassidy is a prolific romance novelist who has had a number of books published under the Silhouette and Harlequin labels. Special Agent's Surrender is part of the "Lawmen of Black Rock" series.

On a cold, snowy evening in the middle of winter, the cute and sexy Layla West - a realtor and broker - is attacked by a man hiding in the back seat of her car. After she is able to escape from the serial killer with barely a scratch, Layla is exiled to a cabin hidden deep in the local woods until her stalker can be caught and executed.

Layla's fear soon turns to curious excitement though, when she learns that she will be occupying the cabin with the sexy Jacob Grayson - brother of the local sheriff and a former FBI agent who can keep her safe from harm. After being forced to spend several days and several nights cooped up with one another, Layla and Jacob can't deny their impending love for each other, even in the midst of danger.

I fell in love with this novel prematurely after reading Cassidy's "Dear Reader" intro prior to the beginning of the book. Cassidy describes Jacob's character as a "tortured hero," which is intriguing and sexy all in itself. Special Agent's Surrender then segues into a fast-paced, romantic suspense novel that is hard to put down. Not usually a fan of romance myself, I finished the book within a 24-hour time period.

The chemistry between Layla and Jacob is cute and fun, and the flirtations are even more intense than the sex scenes. Since the novel is very short in length and there are only a handful of characters, the "intrigue" and mystery portion of the novel is ridiculously easy to solve, but who cares?! The novel is fun, sexy, and overall enjoyable.

Readers who enjoy Special Agent's Surrender will also enjoy Cassidy's other books in the series; including His Case, Her Baby (February 2010), The Lawman's Nanny Op (June 2010), Cowboy Deputy (December 2010), and Tool Belt Defender (December 2011).

Here is our review of Carla Cassidy's Enigma (Maximum Men):
Dreamworld Book Reviews - Enigma (Maximum Men)

Click on any of the pictures of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

Aaron, Approximately by Zachary Lazar

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 01:43:00 +0000

Released: January 1998

Aaron, Approximately is the first novel by Zachary Lazar - an entertaining and comical (yet very dark) coming-of-age tale about Aaron Bright, a young man who struggles with adolescence and young adulthood after he witnesses the death of his father in a freak skydiving accident.

Aaron Bright often feels as if he has been living in his father's shadow, especially with his father being a local celebrity in Denver, Colorado, where he poses as a clown on his own children's television show. After Aaron's father dies and he becomes the man of the house in an all-female household, we are regaled with Aaron's first-person account of his awkward experiences throughout junior high, high school, and his early college years.

When I stumbled upon Aaron, Approximately at the bookstore, I decided I just had to have it when I flipped through and found the words "Nike" and "Foot Locker." Being a Nike sneaker collector (it's all I wear), I purchased the book without a second glance. After reading this novel, I am immensely proud to have found it, because it is, without a doubt, one of the more entertaining books I have read in months.

The synopsis of Aaron, Approximately appears to make the book much darker and more tragic than it actually is. I do not discount the fact that losing a father at such a young and crucial age for development is indeed tragic, but Aaron's voice and Lazar's writing style is so light and comical that the book isn't at all depressing as you read it.

I will admit that the first few chapters leading up to the death of Aaron's father were slow, dull, and a bit boring, but the novel more than redeemed itself once we got to chapter 5 and beyond. In fact, chapter 5 was absolutely brilliant. Aaron explains to readers about his mother and sister's musical involvement, and about the way they turned the solarium in their home into a mini concert hall, providing an intimate look into Aaron's home life post the death of his father.

Chapter 5 was also the Nike/Foot Locker chapter, in which Aaron's mother takes him shopping for a new pair of shoes, and by the end of the chapter, Aaron explains how he feels like "hugging and apologizing" to this horrible, cheap pair of Nike knock-offs his mother convinces him to buy.

Another reason I loved Aaron, Approximately is because I am also from Colorado, and Aaron's (Lazar's) comments throughout the book about Denver were spot-on; especially in regards to the cynical remarks about nothing ever going on and how the inhabitants of that city watch too much television and pretend to live lives that don't exist. Lazar's voice through Aaron was very evident, and it cracked me up.

Since I'm a female, I usually shun all coming-of-age novels about females because they're all the same. You get your period, go through an ugly phase, kiss your first boy, lose your virginity, blah blah blah. But I love coming-of-age novels about males because we get to explore unfamiliar territory about penises, sex, oddball friendships, and a whole new side of awkward. I'm always on the edge of my seat with novels such as these.

It was only when I went online to read more about Zachary Lazar and review his bibliography that I fully understood the tone and purpose of Aaron, Approximately; especially as Lazar's own father was murdered when Lazar was very young.

Nevertheless, I definitely consider Aaron, Approximately a must-read, especially for fans of J.D. Salinger's infamous The Catcher in the Rye. Fans of Max Barry and Chuck Palahniuk will also enjoy reading Aaron, Approximately.

Zachary Lazar has also written Sway: A Novel (2008) and has released a non-fiction book entitled Evening's Empire: The Story of My Father's Murder (2009).

Click on the pictures of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

Moonlight and Oranges by Elise Stephens

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 20:18:00 +0000

Release Date: November 2011

Moonlight and Oranges is Stephens' debut novel about a modern-day romance based on Greek mythology's very own Cupid and Psyche.

Beautiful, 20-something Lorona Connelly attends a raving Halloween party with her best friend, but feels instantly out of place outside of her usually sheltered and bookish environment. Shortly after arriving to the party, Lorona is confronted by sexy ladies' man Kestrin Feather, who feels mysteriously compelled to protect this fragile, bookish girl from a throng of seemingly vindictive party-goers. After sharing a vodka screwdriver, Lorona and Kestrin kiss, and sparks fly.

Hours after their magical kiss, Lorona and Kestrin can't seem to shake off their cravings for orange juice - and each other. Finding their way back to each other with the help of mutual friends, and now passionately in love (lust?), Lorona and Kestrin enter quickly into marriage without knowing much about each other's pasts. When Lorona finds and reads Kestrin's secret journal that contains entries about a woman he is destined to marry, Lorona leaves him in a fit of rage, assuming he wrote the entries to trick women into his bed. And so the melodrama continues, until Lorona and Kestrin submit to their destiny, and finally settle on happily ever after - and each other.

A book reviewer's purpose is to analyze and review the book for what it is; NOT for what it could have been, which is a common mistake made by many bloggers and reviewers. I will deviate from this rule for this one instance to state that Moonlight and Oranges would have made much more sense (and perhaps would have been more enjoyable) had Stephens' Author's Note been placed at the beginning of the novel, rather than at the end.

Had I known ahead of time that Moonlight and Oranges was a modern-day retelling of Cupid and Psyche, I would have taken a lighter approach to the story. With Greek mythology not exactly being a personal interest of mine at any point, the novel made no logical sense to me, and I was appalled by the characters and their actions. I'm not a fan of Shakespeare either, however, I still enjoy literary parodies and movies that are based on his works, mainly because I know going into them that they are not meant to be taken too seriously.

Entering into a marriage after a few days, weeks, or even months with a person you hardly know based on intuition, attraction, and lust and expecting it to work like magic just doesn't work in real life. I'm not being cynical or pessimistic here, but it's actually just hehavioral science, plain and simple. Even those without tons of dating experience know that the lust and honeymoon phase wears off after time, and to make a relationship work, you need commitment.

Why do I digress into this particular tirade? Because it makes me nervous to think that young adults and teens could read this book and be charmed by the relationship between Lorona and Kestrin, as there is nothing charming, magical, or awesome about it.

Clearly Lorona was not ready for marriage and commitment, seeing as she left Kestrin in a heartbeat and like a true coward without even taking the time to speak directly with Kestrin about the journal. Then of course, if Lorona had been a mature adult and faced Kestrin responsibly, there probably wouldn't have been a story.

Aside from the marriage and commitment flaws, the characters' personalities are extremely entertaining because they think of themselves as world-weary souls (in their 20s!), yet are incredibly immature; Kestrin with his "many, many years" as a womanizer and being tired of the scene (sure thing, James Bond), and Lorona with her "many, many years" leading a sheltered, quiet life. Apparently without ever having tasted a vodka screwdriver, either.

I definitely do not recommend Moonlight and Oranges to young adults or teens, especially with marriage being glorified, and then cast aside so easily when one of the partners decides she doesn't like what she reads in a lame journal.

I DO, however, recommend Moonlight and Oranges to mature, adult readers who are true fans of Greek mythology and understand that the novel is loosely based on the story of Cupid and Psyche.

Readers who enjoyed Moonlight and Oranges may also like A Writer's Love Story by Robert Wacaster.

The Best Reads of 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 02:39:00 +0000

Here it is...*drumroll*...a complete list of the best books I read during the year 2011!

Although most of them were not published this year, I am honored to have stumbled upon these amazing books that I highly recommend to readers and book-lovers everywhere.

Click on the links for each book to read the book review in its entirety.

The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe (2009)
Intelligently written with a combination of history and fantasy, Howe's debut about a family legacy of witchcraft will make you wish the novel never ends.

Black and White by Dani Shapiro (2007)
One of the most intimate writers I've ever known, Shapiro will have you in tears - even if you cannot relate to its devastating subject matter of estranged family.

Roasting in Hell's Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay (2007)
An honest and humble autobiography by one of the most renowned chefs in the world, Gordon Ramsay's memoir will most likely inspire you to quit your dreadful job and pursue your true passion.

Altar of Bones by Philip Carter (2011)
An intriguing suspense novel that will have you hooked from the get-go, Altar of Bones touches on one of the most notorious conspiracy theories of all time.

The Nobodies Album by Carolyn Parkhurst (2010)
One of the most creative writers I've ever come across, Parkhurst will stun you with her beautiful verse in this novel about a haunted author who desperately tries to rekindle a relationship with her famous son.

Catfish Alley by Lynne Bryant (2011)
Bryant's debut novel explores racism and segregation in 1930s and present-day Mississippi, unfolding a mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. Keep a box of tissues nearby.

The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown (2009)
Always tons of controversy where Dan Brown is concerned, but let's face it: he's entertaining. In the style of The Da Vinci Code and the National Treasure movie franchise, The Lost Symbol is set in the United States and explores the intriguing field of noetics.

Bayou Bodyguard by Jana DeLeon

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 23:17:00 +0000

Released: July 2011

Bayou Bodyguard is a follow-up to DeLeon's The Secret of Cypriere Bayou (March 2011). DeLeon is currently contributing to Harlequin's Intrigue series.

Justine Chatry has been hired to research a collection of historical documents and journals to pinpoint the location of valuable emeralds that have been hidden for years at laMalediction, a vacant mansion nestled deep in Louisiana bayou country. Assigned to accompany Justine for the duration of her project is a bodyguard named Brian Marcentel, an incredibly sexy and alluring man whom Justine has recognized from her traumatizing childhood. Determined to keep their connection secret should Brian learn of her true motive for accepting the project at laMalediction, Justine riskily attempts to uncover the truth about her family's legacy, despite the violent events that continue to transpire around her. With danger surrounding Justine and Brian, the pair must also confront and deal with the undeniable chemistry and attraction between them that spices up their adventure together.

When there are no professional reasons to review a Harlequin novel of any type, I will usually not read these books for fun simply because they aren't my usual taste; however, Bayou Bodyguard has proved to be an excellent exception. The novel is tastefully written, genuinely intriguing, and keeps you guessing about the murderer's identity until it is revealed at the end. Seasoned readers may try to over-analyze the murder mystery, and if they do, may be surprised with the final outcome, as it is utterly unpredictable.

I remained skeptical during the first chapter of Bayou Bodyguard simply due to my cynical nature in approaching series romances, but DeLeon writes a page-turner that will suck you in from the get-go. The setting of Bayou Bodyguard within the town of Cypriere is charmingly romantic and spooky without obvious intention, which just adds to the novel's overall likability.

I am happily awaiting Jana DeLeon's next bayou-inspired novel entitled The Lost Girls of Johnson's Bayou, set to release in February 2012.

DeLeon has also written the Ghost-in-Law mystery series and stand-alone novels entitled Rumble on the Bayou (2006) and Unlucky (2007).

What are your favorite Harlequin Intrigue novels?

Click on the pictures of any of the books below to read more reviews about them on Amazon.com.

A Wedding in December by Anita Shreve

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 22:39:00 +0000

Release Date: October 2005

A Wedding in December is by esteemed novelist Anita Shreve, also the author of The Pilot's Wife (1998).

During the December of 2001 after the World Trade Center event, a group of old high school friends reunite for the first time in decades to attend a wedding between 2 of their classmates. Over the course of a weekend, we learn about the internal struggles within a few of the troubled adults; especially those affected most by the death of their beloved classmate who died years ago shortly before their high school graduation. By the end of the weekend, each character has experienced a revelation of their own that helps them to have a better perspective on their lives.

A Wedding in December is one of the most impressionistic character-based novels I have ever read, and incredibly engaging at that. The novel tastefully leads up to the details behind the tragedy that befell the deceased high school classmate and dabbles into romance between the adult characters at just the right moments.

A Wedding in December also contains a novel within a novel on the subject of the Halifax Explosion, written by one of the core characters named Agnes. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the incident, the Halifax Explosion occurred in Nova Scotia during the winter of 1917 when a cargo ship loaded with explosives blew up in Halifax Harbour. Those who were watching from the windows of their homes were permanently blinded or injured from the window glass flying into their eyes at the time of the explosion. Agnes writes her own intriguing character-driven story about this incident during her stay at the inn where the wedding and reunion takes place.

The ending of A Wedding in December is timed appropriately; in fact, it's one of the few novels in which you are ready for the book to end when it actually does end, without any accompanying negative feelings or thoughts.

If you enjoyed A Wedding in December, you will also like reading Shreve's The Last Time They Met (2001), All He Ever Wanted (2003), and Where or When (1993).

Read our review here on Anita Shreve's Body Surfing (2007):
Dreamworld Book Reviews - Body Surfing

Click on the pictures below to read about Anita Shreve's novels in more detail on Amazon.com.

Joy to the World: A Victorian Christmas by Hart, Grossman and Dunhill

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 01:09:00 +0000

Release Date: January 1990

Joy to the World is what I like to call a coffee-table book, and is more or less a scrapbook filled with Victorian artwork, images, and antique collectibles, and accompanied by text that outlines the history of Christmas.

As seen in the photo snapshot above, the cover of Joy to the World as well as the similar content inside is aesthetically pleasing to the eye for those with an interest in Victorian paraphernalia or scrapbooking. From a reading standpoint however, the text in the book that outlines the history of Christmas is dry and reads too much like a textbook to be remotely engaging.

Although Joy to the World has a one-time reading value, flipping through the book provides readers with a feeling of nostalgia and for some, may become a holiday tradition.

Joy to the World is not exactly reading material for young children (yeah - thanks Mom, for giving this book to me when I was 12 years old), but is more suited for adults who enjoy serious brain candy and of course the Victorian presentation. The book also serves as a perfect Christmas decoration for your fireplace mantle or your coffee table.

Fans of Joy to the World may also enjoy A Victorian Christmas: Sentiments and Sounds of a Bygone Era by Cockrell and Baldassari (2008) and Old-Fashioned Christmas Postcards by Gabriella Oldham (1989).

Click on the pictures of the books below to review them in more detail on Amazon.com.

Spongebob Squarepants: Christmas with Krabby Klaws by Erica David and Heather Martinez

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 06:17:00 +0000

Released: October 2010

Author Erica David has written numerous children's books based on the Nickelodeon television series' "Spongebob Squarepants" and "Go, Diego, Go." Christmas with Krabby Klaws is illustrated by Heather Martinez, who has illustrated numerous other Spongebob Squarepants children's books.

Christmas with Krabby Klaws is about 15 pages long and includes over 20 holographic stickers that match the theme of the book. Under the sea, in the land of Bikini Bottom, Spongebob and his boss at the Krusty Krab named Mr. Krabs are hosting a winter wonderland party for all the plankton and fish children. Mr. Krabs is posing as Santa Claus, and comments to Spongebob on his popularity and riches earned from hosting the gala, which he suspects have begun to supersede that of Santa Claus. Shocked by Mr. Krabs' selfish statement, Spongebob convinces Mr. Krabs that he must perform good deeds to be placed back onto Santa Claus' "nice list." By the end of the story, Mr's Krabs is in good holiday cheer and all ends well within the land of Bikini Bottom.

Each page of Christmas with Krabby Klaws is full of lively, bright illustrations that mirror the Nickelodeon cartoon perfectly and add to the overall humor of the book. Parents and guardians who read Christmas with Krabby Klaws to their children may enjoy mimicking the voices of Spongebob and Mr. Krabs, as well as the story's nature of pure silliness. This book is also perfect to read throughout the month of December for the Christmas holiday season.

Additional Christmas books featuring Spongebob Squarepants are A Very Krusty Christmas (2006), Spongebob's Christmas Wish (2003), and A Christmas Coral (2001).

Click on any of the pictures below to view each Spongebob Squarepants product in more detail on Amazon.com.

Lady of the Glen by Jennifer Roberson

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 06:31:00 +0000

Released: April 1996

Jennifer Roberson's Lady of the Glen (originally titled Glen of Sorrows) is an historical novel about the Massacre of Glencoe, which occurred in the Scottish Highlands in the year 1692. Roberson is best known for her numerous fantasy novels in addition to few historical-fiction novels.

Lady of the Glen opens in the summer of 1682, when an adventurous 10-year old Catriona "Cat" Campbell - the only woman in her family consisting of a father and several older brothers - meets Alasdair "Dair" Og MacDonald: archenemy of her family and clan. Although the two are supposedly destined to be enemies based on their family's rivalry toward one another, Cat and Dair's undeniable chemistry causes them to forge a curious bond that neither knows how to handle. As the years gradually pass, Cat and Dair continuously find themselves crossing paths as enemies; although their harbored feelings of passion for one another cause them to act otherwise. At long last, at the start of a major war, Cat and Dair finally confess their love for one another, but "happily ever after" must be forced to wait.

Lady of the Glen is an epic novel, and reads perfectly for those who love to while away the hours ensconsing themselves in a beautifully written story that is easy to become lost in. I appreciate how the love story between Cat and Dair does not overpower the historical aspect of the novel in regards to the Massacre of Glencoe.

Lady of the Glen is tastefully written and easy to devour; though for some, it may not be a novel meant for light-reading entertainment, especially when the war approaches and we are regaled with political themes and events that indirectly concern the fates of Cat and Dair.

If you read and enjoyed the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon, you will also enjoy Lady of the Glen, which is very similar, but without the time-travel aspect, of course. Both Cat and Dair are enthralling characters, plus, it may inspire you to read more about the Massacre of Glencoe when you have finished reading this novel.

Jennifer Roberson's other historical novels include Lady of the Forest (1992) and Lady of Sherwood (1999), which both tell the story of Robin Hood. Roberson has also written the Cheysuli, Karavans, and Sword-Dancer fantasy series.

Click on the pictures of Roberson's novels below to read about them in more detail on Amazon.com.

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 06:03:00 +0000

Released: August 2010

Mockingjay is the 3rd and final book in Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games trilogy. This series has easily been the most enjoyable I've read in all of 2011, and definitely one of the best Young Adult series I've ever read. Ever!

Having survived 2 rounds of Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen has seriously angered President Snow and the rest of the Capitol in becoming the "Mockingjay," or the face of the rebellion against the Capitol. As Katniss escapes to District 13, which is literally the underground district that has been kept secret from all other districts, she is again faced with the challenge of learning who she can and cannot trust within the rogue district. After all, District 13 is comprised of individuals who once served the Capitol, among other stragglers from some of the other districts. On top of all this, Katniss is faced with a brainwashed Peeta, whom President Snow has sent to District 13 on a mission to kill Katniss.

In this final installment of the Hunger Games trilogy, nearly every conflict from the first 2 novels, The Hunger Games and Catching Fire, comes to a satisfying conclusion - but not completely - happy ending.

If you've already read The Hunger Games and Catching Fire, you won't be able to put down Mockingjay. You'll probably be rapt and wide-eyed as you read the novel, and then have an upset stomach upon finishing the novel. After all, not only does Mockingjay fail to give you the best of happy endings, but the epilogue is too short for one's liking and the fact that the trilogy has truly and finally ended hits you like a suckerpunch to the stomach.

Suzanne Collins is simply brilliant. The story of Mockingjay is fascinating, original, and not at all predictable for even the most seasoned of readers and plot-psychics like myself. What I liked best about Mockingjay and the rest of the books in the series is that each novel has an enormous emotional impact; in some cases, to the point of tears. This is how I can always tell that a writer has crafted a story that is just superb, perfect, and utterly memorable.

In addition to having a huge screening party every time a new Hunger Games movie comes out, I plan on keeping tabs on any future novels released by Suzanne Collins. She has also written the Underland Chronicles featuring Gregor The Overlander and a few other works.

Our other reviews of Hunger Games books:
Dreamworld Book Reviews - The Hunger Games
Dreamworld Book Reviews - Catching Fire

Click on the pictures of the books below to review each Suzanne Collins novel in more detail on Amazon.com.

The Cat in the Hat Beginner Book Dictionary by Dr. Seuss and P.D. Eastman

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 23:53:00 +0000

Released: August 1964

This Dr. Seuss The Cat in the Hat Beginner Book Dictionary is a funny, ridiculous, effective learning guide for toddlers and young children who are attempting to learn the alphabet and to begin reading. The book contains a total of 1350 common words such as "apple" and "dinner," and nonsensical words such as "kerchoo" (a sneeze apparently).

As shown in the picture below, the dictionary showcases various words accompanied by silly pictures of Dr. Suess-looking characters drawn by P.D. Eastman; although none of the characters are actually the Cat in the Hat.

The dictionary features recurring themes and characters; such as Aaron the Alligator and Uncle Uriah, who handle various objects and assume different poses for each word depending on what that particular word depicts. There are also Eskimo boys (one of whom is named Oobooglunk) and a Native American Indian boy with feathers on his head (whom my toddler son innocently misinterprets as "the bunny boy") depicted throughout the book; which may be considered unacceptable for parents who teach their children to be politically correct.

Since the dictionary was published in 1964, there are many cases in which the words and pictures may confuse our modern-day children; such as "typewriter," "newspaper," and "phonograph" to name a few. I have to explain what each object is to my son, but this process is still fun nonetheless. In addition to the pictures of the cute "bunny boys" throughout the book, one of my favorite words is "zyxuzpf," which is what I refer to as a Dr. Seuss-ism and depicts a nest full of birds, with the description of "A nest full of zyxuzpf birds."

I tried performing a bit of research to determine if the most recent version of The Cat in the Hat Beginner Book Dictionary still features the Eskimo and Native American Indian boys, as some children's books by Richard Scarry removed these somewhat racial misinterpretations from their books; however, I had no luck. The version of my dictionary was printed in 1992, and I was unable to find any documentation online that stated these characters were removed from the book.

Regardless, this children's dictionary is a hilarious and incredibly fun tool if you are teaching your child how to read.

Buy this dictionary and more Dr. Seuss books from Amazon.com by clicking on the pictures below:

A Stir of Bones by Nina Kiriki Hoffman

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 17:51:00 +0000

Released: September 2003

A Stir of Bones is a prequel to Nina Kiriki Hoffman's novels entitled, A Red Heart of Memories (1999) and Past the Size of Dreaming (2001).

Set in the early 1980s, A Stir of Bones is about Susan, a young girl in middle school whose life is dictated by her strict and violent father, who abuses Susan's mother when Susan does anything that upsets her father. To stay out of her house as much as possible, Susan takes on school projects and visits the library often; when one day she overhears a group of kids her own age talking about a haunted house. Intrigued, Susan introduces herself to the group and joins them on their secret excursions to the haunted house. When Susan enters "House" (which is the name Susan assigns to the doting house that seems connected to her), she meets Nathan, a ghost of a young man that inhabits House whom she forms an adoring relationship with. In short, A Stir of Bones tells the story of a young girl willing to hide from her own, frightening family, to instead make her home with the ghostly apparition of Nathan and their House.

I originally picked this book up hoping it would be a quick, spooky, and nostalgic read for the month of Halloween October; however, it took me over a month to finish. The prose was dry, and nothing about the way it was written made me feel connected to any of the characters; not even Susan. The highlights of the novel were reading about Susan's take on computers and video games in the 1980s, and parts of the story in which the House scares away outsiders aside from the group of Susan and her friends. The remainder of the novel was mainly comprised of stale dialogue between Susan and Nathan concerning how Susan feels safe and happy with House and Nathan and how she "wishes she could never leave," and so on. This book was overall extremely difficult for me to enjoy and I'm surprised I finished it.

I have read A Fistful of Sky (2002) by Nina Kiriki Hoffman and moderately enjoyed it; however, I am not quite ready to write off Hoffman's other novels just yet. Hoffman has brilliant plot and story ideas, but it seems as if she hasn't mastered the ability to execute each story to its fullest potential.

What are your favorite novels by Nina Kiriki Hoffman? Have you read her novels, and if so, what are your opinions?

Death of a Dreamer by M.C. Beaton

noreply@blogger.com (Sarah Ann) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:11:00 +0000

Released: February 2006

Death of a Dreamer is the 22nd book in M.C. Beaton's Hamish MacBeth cozy mystery series.

After a long, cold, and icy winter in Scotland's Highlands, Lochdubh's local police constable, Hamish MacBeth calls on a new local resident named Effie Garrard to see how she has fared throughout the season. Upon visiting Effie, Hamish believes her to be delusional and a bit crazy; especially when she becomes obsessive and claims that the new local painter and womanizer named Jock Fleming has asked her to be his wife. Days later, Effie is found dead on a hillside with the remnants of poison in her system, so Hamish begins to interrogate all the potential murderers. With the help of Priscilla Halburton-Smythe, Hamish's former fiance and current friend, Hamish eventually uncovers the identity of Effie's murderer.

With Death of a Dreamer being the 22nd installment of an extremely successful and enjoyable series, fans will adore and appreciate the ongoing story-lines, which are nearly punchlines at this point of the series. Hamish continues to be the object of affection for nearly every woman in town; while at the same time, we sense the ongoing tension between him and Priscilla, who has finally ended her engagement with another man.

Characters new and old are both introduced or brought back into the story; such as female detective Robin Mackenzie from a neighboring Scottish town who arrives to assist Hamish in his investigation, and reporter Elspeth Grant, who had dated and then was shunned, by Hamish.

M.C. Beaton is my all-time, favorite cozy mystery writer. Death of a Dreamer never disappoints because her novels are extremely humorous; however, the mysteries are sometimes so batty and goofy that I feel they are impossible to solve. By book 22 in the series, we've already established caring and endearing relationships with the characters, which is the most enjoyable aspect of all.

Following Death of a Dreamer is Death of a Maid (2007), Death of a Gentle Lady (2008), and Death of a Witch (2009), which is book 29 in the series.

Additional Dreamworld Book reviews for M.C. Beaton and Hamish MacBeth books:
The 7 Best Cozy Mystery Series
Death of a Celebrity
Death of a Scriptwriter
Death of a Dentist
A Highland Christmas
A Spoonful of Poison