Sharon the Librarian

Book Review: Raven Calls by C. E. Murphy

2012-02-23T09:10:00.000-05:00

Raven Calls by C. E. Murphy is the most recent addition to Murphy's Walker Papers series. This just might be the best book in the series thus far, with action and character growth far exceeding even what this fan expected. Raven Calls picks up right on the heels of Spirit Dances. Joanne is tired, hungry, and suffering from a werewolf bite. She also quit her job, and solidified her relationship with her former boss, Morrison. Her encore performance includes flying off to Ireland to follow the mystical pull that tells her that she has some unfinished business in her late mother's homeland. While Joanne has made some serious strides, the werewolf bite that is plaguing her just might be the least of her problems. Even with the unexpected help from Gary, her powers and skills might not be enough to deal with the ancient powers that reside in Ireland.

Raven Calls chronicles Joanne's mission to wrap up the unfinished business she has with her late mother, and the evil force that everyone simply calls The Master. While struggling to stay non-furry; Joanne encounters gods, goddesses, and beings that she can not quite classify. Her mission is to battle the darkness, The Master, while setting her mother's essence free from his influence. Her efforts take her, and those she encounters along the was, slipping through time and closing some complicated time loops. While the journey takes some turns that Joanne does not expect, and sets the stage for further adventures. However, although her path might not be a straight line, Joanne comes a long way in accepting herself and the world around her for all of its light and dark.

I highly recommend Raven Calls to fans of the Walker Papers series. For those that have yet to read the first six books in the series, I do not recommend starting here. Without the previous knowledge of Joanne, her issues, her friends, and her family you will simply not understand the significance of most of the story line and the growth that Joanne's character makes. I do recommend the entire series, it is a great example of urban fantasy that balances the action, personal growth, and romance plot lines of the characters well. This is one series that I refuse to fall behind on.

Picturebook Review: I'm a Shark by Bob Shea

2012-02-20T15:00:00.000-05:00

I'm a Shark by Bob Shea is a fun and boldly illustrated book about an arrogant shark that proclaims that he is not afraid of anything. He continually tells two, much smaller, admirers that he is brave and not afraid of anything. He proclaims that most of the scariest things in the world are actually afraid of him. He is not afraid of the dark, a giant squid, or a big mean bear. Before long readers, young and old, are well aware of the one thing that scares shark, even though he will not admit it. Even the awesome shark is afraid of something, and his small fans are afraid of something too.

I am a fan of Bob Shea. The combination of his big, bold illustrations and fun text make reading his books a joy. I will admit to enjoying them well before sharing them with my children. I'm a Shark is no exception. The boastful shark is a great lesson for children, both in the fact that is alright to be afraid and in recognizing that everyone is afraid of something. Even the biggest, baddest, smartest, strongest, most whatever is important to them, is afraid of something. In some cases the fear is justified, or at least something that has a purpose, like a small fish being afraid of a shark. However, sometimes even the bravest among us are afraid of the little things that can truly cause us no harm. I was glad that the shark was afraid of something as simple as spiders, it will make my own dislike of clowns and porcelain dolls much easier to explain to my children when the time comes. (They are both just creepy.)

I highly recommend I'm a Shark to all picturebook readers and listeners.

Book Review: Mr. and Mrs. Bunny-Detectives Extraordinaire! by Polly Horvath

2012-02-16T10:47:00.000-05:00

Mr. and Mrs. Bunny-Detectives Extraordinaire! by Polly Horvath is a children's chapter book with much more to it than I expected from the cover. There are two story lines in the beginning, that intersect and continue in unexpected ways. Madeline is a responsible young girl being raised by two free spirited parents, in an equally free spirited town. One night Madeline comes home from work to discover her parents have been kidnapped. Mr. and Mrs. Bunny are moving to a new home, that has been vacated under mysterious circumstances. To alleviate boredom Mrs. Bunny has decided they should become detectives, which turns out to be a good choice when they meet Madeline, who has sought help from her uncle. As the story continues, it gets funnier and more interesting with quirky characters and beautiful illustrations from Sophie Blackall.

Mr. and Mrs. Bunny-Detectives Extraordinaire is a hilarious mystery full of expected characters like detective bunnies, disreputable foxes, and a garlic loving marmot. I liked the fact that Madeline was smart and self reliant, and thought it was even better that the bunny couple wanted to take care of her. She is a practical girl that seems to be raising her parents. The entire island she lives on seems to look at her as the strange one, because she is responsible. The bunny community is equally odd. The kidnapping and the search for Madeline's parents draws in a slew of eccentric characters, like the brilliant code breaking but odd uncle, scatterbrained marmot, hat loving bunnies, and a nuisance of a neighbor. The bunny couple is well-meaning and many parents might see some aspects of their own relationships in the bunny interactions. The entire effect is fun and highly entertaining.

I recommend Mr. and Mrs. Bunny-Detectives Extraordinaire! For seven to twelve year-old’s, and the adults that might read to or with them. Teachers, parents, and anyone that enjoys children's literature will also enjoy this book. There is something fun and entertaining for both distinct levels of readers, and I am looking forward to further exploring the work of Polly Horvath and Sophie Blackall.

Book Review: The Cowboy Tutor by Linda Ford

2012-02-14T11:33:00.000-05:00

The Cowboy Tutor by Linda Ford is a Christian, historical romance. I saw the cover and a short description and decided I needed to request it from NetGalley. I am glad I did not read the longer description, which would have made me more aware of the Christian aspect of the story, which I am not always fond. However, in Linda Ford's case, she make the character's religion so much a part of their lives that it does not come across as forced or instructional, which is often the case in Christian fiction that I have read. The story description and character that hooked me is Madge Morgan. She is the oldest daughter, the one her family counts on to find a way to make mortgage payments and keep the family together since her father died. She takes in laundry and whatever respectable jobs that she can find in a town hit hard by the depression. One day she literally runs into Judd Kirk, a detraction that she does not need in these desperate times. Little does she know that Judd has a mission of his own, and is trying to avoid becoming sidetracked himself. Subterfuge complicates matters; but hard work, trust in God, and forgiveness might bring everyone the peace and love that they deserve.

I think that The Cowboy Tutor is a relatable story. The Depression era is a time full of struggles that many of us are now dealing with again, trying to make ends met and avoid becoming without basic necessities. While we might not be taking in laundry to pay the mortgage, many people are doing everything in their power to stay afloat, just like Madge and her family. Family dynamics, strong characters, and conflicts keep the story moving and the reader enthralled.

I think that The Cowboy Tutor is a well done romance, with or without the Christian element. However, readers that simply do not enjoy any book with religious tones will want to skip the book. While the faith found here is woven seamlessly into the lives of the characters, there are those that simply do not like romance blended with scripture. I typically do not enjoy Christian romance, mainly because many of the books I have read that try to merge romance and Christian themes seem to either tack in religion to fill the dialogue gaps, make it sound forced and unnatural, or go too far and leave the reader feeling preached to or judged rather than entertained by the book. Christian readers that enjoy romance but a leery of reading books with a Christian theme for the same reasons I am will want to take the leap and pick this one up.

Book Review: Halflings by Heather Burch

2012-02-08T17:50:00.000-05:00

Halflings by Heather Burch is the first book in a new young adult series. Nikki is a smart, strong and independent seventeen year old. Suddenly she seems to be under a could of dark intent and three watchful young men are charged with protecting her. Mace, Raven, and Vine are the beautiful misfits charged with watching over Nikki. it is not long before events bring Nikki and one of her protectors close, and she discovers at least part of their truth. Soon everything is at risk as Nikki and her guardians have to fight attraction and those hunting Nikki.

Halfling's main character is Nikki who is clearly something special. This is made clear quickly as this assumedly normal teenage girl being chased by hell hounds and the occasional madman. Three mysterious, impossibly attractive young men ride to her rescue, and it is not long before Nikki guesses at least part of their secret and gets a glimpse of the bigger picture. Attraction between Nikki and two of her new guardians makes everything more complicated, and more dangerous for everyone. Her parents, normal trusted and trusting, seem to be hiding something and a mysterious family friend appears from nowhere. I was initially disappointed when the almost inevitable love triangle made itself known. At first I just sighed and a little annoyed at the fact that a love triangle is pretty much a given when reading teen paranormal books these days. However, I quickly was appeased with the unique angle on the love angst, the developing characters, and mystery elements of the story erased any negative feelings I had about the book.

Halflings is the great start to a new series, and I cannot wait to see where it takes me and its characters. Heather Burch is now on my list of need to read authors. There is a solid balance of world building and urban fantasy aspects with suspense and mystery. The main characters are in a safe enough position that I cannot call the ending a cliff hanger, but it left be seriously craving the next book in the series. There are puzzles stilled to be solved, and I feel a little in limbo waiting to see if my suspicions are right, or if I am out in left field. I recommend Halflings to those that enjoy young adult novels, books with angel mythology, urban fantasy, and a solid read.

Book Review: Secrets of An Accidental Duchess by Jennifer Haymore

2012-02-06T21:44:00.000-05:00

Secrets of An Accidental Duchess by Jennifer Haymore made me sad that I have yet to read the first book in the Donovan sister series, Confessions of an Improper Bride. Which is something I should rectify soon. Olivia Donovan is treated like a porcelain doll by her sister, like she might break at any moment. While this concern might be anchored in good intentions, since she can develop a serious fever at any time due to contracting malaria as a child. Her delicate appearance does not help her in this regard at all. however, Olivia is a lot stronger than anyone seems to believe. She is smart, independent, and bold with no way to enjoy some freedom other than her daily walks. Max spots the ethereal Olivia across a crowded ballroom in London, and is goaded into a bet with an acquaintance. little did he know that that bet, and the madman he made it with, would cause so much danger and destruction.

Secrets of An Accidental Duchess was a well paced romance. I liked that the story did not end as soon as the pair came together, or after max's poor decisions came to light. the villain and other side of Max's bet, Fenwicke, is a sociopath and all things bad about the male members of society. I think that he was a little one dimensional with no background or reason behind his attitude or actions, but he is terrifying none the less. there are some suspenseful moments, and some good intimate movements as well. The story was well rounded, well paced, and very involving. I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the first book in the series, since there were multiple references to one of her sister's marriage and some intense family activity. However, the missing bits of background did not make Olivia and Max any less real or interesting, it only effected the understanding of family dynamics and how certain people came to be part of their inner circle. There was also some serious set up for the next book in the series, Pleasures of a Tempted Lady, which I will have to read when it comes out in August of 2012.

I recommend Secrets of An Accidental Duchess to fans of romance that offers more that insta-love between the main characters. i think readers that have ever felt stifled by overprotective family will especially enjoy Olivia's character, particularly her true strength. Jennifer Haymore is an author that I am going to explore further, now that I have been treated to her well developed heroines.

Netgalley Month- January 2012 Edition

2012-02-04T17:30:00.001-05:00

I feel like I read an awful lot this month, but at the same time that I did not read as much as I could have. Here is my reading list, at least of NetGalley books. I will admit to having read three or four library books between these. So at least I know I read more than I am listing here.

Don't Bite the Messenger by Regan Summers (Urban fantasy)
Daughter of the Centaurs by K.K. Ross (Young adult/fantasy)
The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges (young adult/historical/urban fantasy)
Tina's Mouth: An Existential Comic Diary by Keshni Kashyap (young adult/graphic novel)
Under His Influence by Justine Elyot (erotica/science fiction/suspense) How to Make a Golem and Terrify People by Allete J. Willis (Children)
First Aid for Fairies and Other Fabled Beasts by Lari Don (Children) Hades: Lord of the Dead by George O'Connor (Young adult/Graphic novel) Popular Clone by M.E. Castle (Children)
Dark Sins and Desert Sands by Stephanie Draven (Romance/suspense)
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain (Non-fiction)
Dotter of Her Father's Eyes by Mary Talbot and Brian Talbot (Graphic Novel)
Terrible, Awful, Horrible Manners! by Beth Bracken, illustrated by Richard Watson (picture book)
Tall: Great American Folktales, edited by Donnie Lemke (Children/graphic novel)
Ragnarok by A. S. Byatt (historical, partly biographical part mythology)
Giant Squid: Searching for a Sea Monster by Mary M. Cerullo (children/non-fiction)

So I read sixteen NetGalley books. There were a couple I read the first pages of and decided to shuffle behind others on my list. However, I'll be proud of my sixteen, and hope to do better in the next NetGalley Month.

Book Review: "Giant Squid: Searching for a Sea Monster"

2012-02-03T07:21:00.000-05:00

Giant Squid: Searching for a Sea Monster by Mary M. Cerullo is a children's non fiction book. This book details the search for the 'sea monster' of the deeps, the beast that has terrified and enthralled people for centuries, the giant squid. Doctor Clyde Roper is a scientist that is particularly fascinated by the giant squid, and Giant Squid: Searching for a Sea Monster chronicles the search and his discoveries surrounding this secretive creature. While there is still much to learn, there are many fascinating facts about the giant squid, its habitat,its cousins, its prey, its predators, and what it is a vital part of the ocean's ecosystem.

My complete review is available here on Yahoo! Voices.

Early Book Review: Ragnarok by A. S. Byatt

2012-02-02T12:09:00.001-05:00

Ragnarok by A. S. Byatt is an intriguing combination of autobiographical remembrances of tumultuous times during her childhood and the intricacy of Norse legends. The two come together with striking skill that will speak to anyone that has found myths to be somehow a more real world than the one that we live in. While toe tale ultimately shows how stories, myths, and legends can help us process the reality of our own demise regardless of not knowing when it might come.

Ragnarok is a relatively short work, but I would not call it a quick read. It is deep and layered. I had to set the book aside a couple times to think about my own relation to mythology and the connections the 'thin child' of the story had to her myths, as well as my connection to her. The setting for the 'thin child' that is our main character that frames the book's narrative is the British country side. Her family has been evacuated there while her father is fighting in world War Two, and the world at large is in chaos. The conflicts and chaos of the Norse myth of Ragnarok, the final battle of th e gods and resulting end of the world, is mirrored in the wartime atmosphere and the child's own beliefs about father's likelihood to return. Her retreat into her inner world, and the way she uses that world and the mythology she studies to relate to the world around her, is relatible. It takes the readers along on a journey that no only explains one girls mindset, but compares a variety of mythologies and how they relate to each other in the greater scheme of things.

Ragnarok is a striking work that I recommend for anyone that enjoys mythology, autobiographical stories, or anything that related to World War Two. This is a thought invoking and enthralling work that challenges the reader on a level that has nothing to do with reading comprehension or understanding. There are political, personal, and ecological themes entangled in the journey, some which I am still pondering.

Early Book Review: Tall: Great American Folktales

2012-02-01T09:34:00.000-05:00

Tall: Great American Folktales, edited by Donnie Lemke is a children's graphic novel retelling some favorite American tall tales. It is set for release on February 1 2012. The tales of Paul Bunyan, Pecos Bill, John Henry, and Johnny Appleseed come to life on the pages of this volume, entertaining and teaching the next generation classic stories of early America. The authors involved in the project include Martin Powell (Paul Bunyan and Johnny Appleseed), Sean Tulien (Pecos Bill), and Stephanie Peters (John Henry). The artists are Aaron Blecha (Paul Bunyan), Lisa K. Weber (Pecos Bill), Nelson Evergreen (John Henry), and Michelle Lomoreaux (Johnny Appleseed).

Tall: Great American Folktales is a great introduction to classic American folklore. Each of the stories has a different feel because of the different authors and artists, but they share a feel of Americana. I recommend this graphic novel collection volume to children around eight and older. The stories truly are tall tales, complete with over the top tales of how the Grand Canyon, Rio Grand, and other distinct landmarks of the nation came to exist. The book left me happy, entertained, and feeling nostalgic. While I am not sure as to how much each of the tales varies from the traditional versions, because it has been years since I have read any of them, but they certainly were entertaining, tall tales.

Early Book Review: Terrible, Awful, Horrible Manners!

2012-01-31T09:33:00.000-05:00

Terrible, Awful, Horrible Manners! by Beth Bracken, illustrated by Richard Watson, is a picture book set for release on February 1 2012. Peter the monkey is typically rude and gross. He does not say please or thank you, never mind saying excuse me. He does not seem to think being polite is very important. In fact, he greatly enjoys the extra attention that his lack of manners bring his way. However, one night at dinner his family begins to act strangely and Peter gets a look at how the people around him feel when he behaves badly.

Terrible, Awful, Horrible Manners! is a fun story with colorful, bright illustrations. Peter is one rude monkey, and loves that behaving badly gets him some extra attention. His parents and little sister team up at dinner one night to give him a little taste of his own medicine. While this might not be the more mature parenting style, it certainly seems to get the point across to Peter. I think that this will definitely speak to the four to six year old set that the book is aimed at.

Terrible, Awful, Horrible Manners! will be a hit in some homes, a complete miss in others. While bathroom and grooming humor is always a hit with the target age range, and some parents, it might be deemed inappropriate by some adults. If you want to avoid books with that type of giggle, then you might want to skip it, because it is definitely in this book. Would would suggest it for reading at home, rather than for use in a preschool or kindergarten environment. My children, ages three and five, got a real kick out of the story and illustrations. Hopefully it also made them more aware of how their actions affect those around them. Thankfully they are already good with saying please and thank you. However, like with most children, an occasional reminder is needed and this book can be a fun way to do the job.

Early Book Review: Dotter of Her Father's Eyes

2012-01-30T20:40:00.000-05:00

Dotter of Her Father's Eyes by Mary Talbot and Brian Talbot is a graphic novel that is part personal memoir of Mary Talbot, the daughter of a renowned Joycean scholar, and part biography of Lucia, James Joyce's daughter. The two personal histories are interwoven and well told. The two coming of age takes share some heart wrenching similarities as well as sharp contrasts fueled by time period and social expectations. The book is slated for release on Feb. 8, 2012.

Dotter of Her Father's Eyes details the pressures and young lives of Mary Talbot and Lucia Joyce. While the particulars their situations, particularly in regards to social status and personal ambitions, are different they each suffer from relationships with their parents that were far from perfect.

My complete review is available here on Yahoo! Voices.

Book Review: Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking

2012-01-30T15:37:00.000-05:00

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain is scheduled for release on Jan. 24, 2012. This book chronicles the history of society's changing focus on character and personality. It takes a close look at the differences between introverts and extroverts, and America's current cultural push to be an extrovert. Scientific studies, in-depth personal research and detailed case studies of individuals come together in this intriguing book. Cain argues that those of us that can be considered introverts are as important and valuable as our more gregarious counterparts and are often undervalued. Readers will be enthralled by the life stories, the psychological details, and personal insights that Quiet offers. I had greater insight about myself, relationships and all manner of interpersonal communications after finishing this book.

My complete review is available here on Yahoo! Voices.

Picturebook Review: Pirates & Princesses

2012-01-26T15:33:00.000-05:00

Pirates and Princesses is a picture book written by Jill and Sadie Kargman and illustrated by Christine Davenier. The colorful and playful illustrations paired with smart text tell the story of a pair of friends. Ivy and Fletch have been friends since they were babies. Even in preschool they remained the bet of friends. However, when they get to kindergarten they discover new friends, which seem to never cross the gender line. The girls play princess, while the boys play pirate. Can the two friends reconnect at school, or will they stay divided along the gender lines?

Some might peg Pirates and Princesses as unrealistic, but I think this is a fantastic tale. As a young girl I was much like Ivy, and enjoyed the games typically considered 'boy's' games. I still am more likely to be seen swinging a hammer or digging in the garden than painting my finger nails. I am trying to instill in my own two kids the understanding that it is more than okay for my daughter to play pirates and my son to don a tutu if that is what they like, if that is what they want to do. So far they have no gender fear, but I know that once they enter elementary school scenarios like the one in this story might take place. There is nothing wrong with the girls plating ballerina or princess. There is nothing wrong with the boys playing pirate, or cowboy, or astronaut. But when the walls between the genders fall and anyone can join in any game, there is so much more fun to be had! I hope that this type of thing can happen in schools, playgrounds, and groups everywhere. Teaching our kids that any kids can be a pirate or a princess, to be good friends, and to stand up for what you believe we can all have kids as cool as Fletch and Ivy.

Book Review: Dark Sins and Desert Sands by Stephanie Draven

2012-01-22T16:51:00.000-05:00

Dark Sins and Desert Sands by Stephanie Draven is romance novel that combines suspense and the paranormal in a contemporary setting. It is part of Draven's Mythica series, but the only one that I have read. I enjoyed that the characters were flawed individuals and I appreciated the new twist on mythology and the gods. It was a quick read, with action and romance that moved at a fast pace.

In Dark Sins and Desert Sands, Ray Stavrakis is an American soldier that has endured the stresses of war and then torture. The result of the trials he has survived is that Ray is on the run, but now gifted with mind control powers. However, he also has to contend with the tolls of using those powers and violent rages. He is now a minotaur, and he is on the hunt for the woman that took part in his interrogation, the only person he believes can clear his name. The woman he is searching for, Layla Bahset, has problems of her own to contend with.

My complete review can be found here on Yahoo! Voices.

Early Book Review: Popular Clone by M.E. Castle

2012-01-20T08:20:00.000-05:00

Popular Clone by M.E. Castle is a book that is perfect for middle school students and younger high school students. It is scheduled for release Jan. 24, 2012. Fisher Bas is a 12-year-old with some serious bully issues. He is the son of two scientists and is not lacking in the science department himself. Fisher is smart, a bit of a dreamer and small. This has gained the attention of one teacher who seems to be a kindred spirit and three bullies who have named themselves the Vikings. In his eagerness to escape the trials of school, Fisher spawns an idea using his mother's top secret experiment, that scientist Dr. Xander would do anything to get his hands on. He creates a clone to go to school and endure those terrors while Fisher gets to stay home and enjoy video games and snack food. His plan could have results ranging from perfect to disastrous. Unsurprisingly, Fisher's experiment and the resulting adventure hold a little from both extremes.

Read my complete review here on Yahoo! Voices.

Picturebook Review: Maddie's Monster Dad by Scott Gibala-Broxholm

2012-01-19T15:32:00.000-05:00

Maddie's Monster Dad is a picture book written and illustrated by Scott Gibala-Broxholm. Maddie is a girl who loved monsters; she loved everything related to monsters. The only thing she loved more than monsters is her father. She loves baking Glob cookies with him, drawing monster pictures with him, and watching monster movies with him. But lately, Maddie's father has been to busy working to ply with her. So, Maddie uses the Build-a-Beast kit her father had given her for her birthday to build herself a new father. Her results are fantastic, but still leave her bored by the end of the day, so she goes with her new dad to scare her real father. The results of her attempted scare offer the perfect reconciliation for the story.

I really loved Maddie's Monster Dad, and highly recommend it as a book to read aloud and share with the children in your life. I think the story can bring home to parents the need to recognize when our work or other responsibilities live others feeling neglected. However, it also offers children the understanding that sometimes adults do need to do less exciting things than play, and that using their imagination can make those times a little easier to bear. Maddie and her father came alive in the illustrations, which were done in gouache and pencil. The colors and images did a great job of capturing the moods of Maddie and the images from her life and imagination. As someone that does some significant computer time at home, it really struck a chord with me personally.

Early Book Review: Hades: Lord of the Dead by George O'Connor

2012-01-18T15:53:00.000-05:00

Hades: Lord of the Dead by George O'Connor is a young adult graphic novel scheduled for release on January 31, 2012. It is volume four in the Olympian series. This is another look at the legend of Hades and Persephone. Those already very familiar with the tale will not have many surprises, but there are some new perspectives to the story in this interpretation. Nothing mind blowing, but a reasonable and well-done look at the story behind why we have seasons and the personality of Persephone. This volume would serve well as an introduction to the story and the way it can change with the perspectives of the teller and reader.

In the Olympians series, O’Connor draws thoroughly researches and then retells Greek myths with his own touch. Hades: Lord of the Dead is no exception. O'Connor gives Persephone, or Kore, some strength and say in her future that is often missing in the more traditional re-tellings. The art is vibrant and gives the characters some personality and small details from the story that might otherwise be lost in this condensed myth re-telling. I also liked that O'Connor added notes at the end of the graphic novel explaining why he made certain changes to the original story, and how he felt about certain aspects of the book. He also includes factual tidbits that will be useful to those not already well-versed in the Greek gods and the related myths.

As someone that loves mythology and the many ways the classic stories can be re-imagined, I felt that Hades: Lord of the Dead was lacking some depth. Hades could have used more background story, particularly in how Persephone caught his eye. However; readers that are looking for a fun read, an introduction to the story, or a basic re-telling of the story will be well pleased with what they find here.

Book Review: Highland Knight by Hannah Howell

2012-01-17T10:52:00.002-05:00

Highland Knight by Hannah Howell is my first review in the TBR Challenge 2012. Hannah Howell has written more Highland novels then I have read, sometime I feel like she has more than I can count. That does not keep me from adding all of them to me to be read list or adding ones I find to my pile. Every single time I pick one up I am happy I did. Highland Knight was among those I need to read to complete the list of the Highland books, which center around the Murray family. Eventually I will catch up and have read all the published Highland books, but I have no idea when I will see the end of the list.

In Highland Knight, Cameron MacAlpin is given a woman and a girl as payment for a debt payment, after discovering who they are. The woman is Avery Murray, sister to Payton Murray, the same man who is said to have dishonored Cameron's own sister. Cameron plans to use Avery and then to trade her to Payton in order to ensure he marries his sister and to get some revenge on his treatment of her. However, nothing goes as smoothly as he would like. Avery and her twelve year old cousin Gillyanne are smart and courageous women that slowly win the hearts of Cameron's people as they travel across France towards Scotland. Escape attempts, teasing, general mischief, and outside threats keep the men on their toes. The women defend Payton's honor and yet still start to feel like family to those they travel with. While Avery is angered at the accusations aimed at her brother, and her own attraction to Cameron, who openly admits that he plans on seducing her for revenge against her brother. Can she change Cameron's made and convince him that all women are not as deceitful as those in his past, or is she fated to desire him long after he casts her aside?

Highland Knight offered exactly what I would expect from any of Howell's Highland romance novels. There is the stubborn hero with baggage to spare, strong women with powers of intuition, a great cast of supporting characters, and some steamy scenes to entertain. There are threads of adventure and humor woven through out the book, so even if you find something bothersome, like the twelve year old cousin dishing out sex advise, you are still compelled to keep reading to see what happens next.

I did not think that Highland Knight was the best of Howell's work, but it was a nice change of pace from the children's book that I had been reading heavily as of late. It also shook my case of reading blahs, where you know that a book you are reading is good or not but just cannot get emotionally involved in any story. Even if I had not liked the story, I would have appreciated the book for that alone. I would recommend Highland Knight to fans of Howell, and those looking for a fun historical romance with a Scottish flavor.

Book Review: First Aid for Fairies and Other Fabled Beasts by Lari Don

2012-01-14T09:19:00.000-05:00

First Aid for Fairies and Other Fabled Beasts by Lari Don is a children's book for readers around 9 and older. Helen wants to be a musician, not a veterinarian like her mother, although she has retained some of the knowledge and skills her mother has tried to teach her. That knowledge comes in handy when she finds an injured horse, which is not just a horse. Soon Helen is caught in a quest with mythical beast to help them right a wrong that their own curiosity set into motion. Helen and her new friends need to solve riddles to find a very special book before the evil Master of the Maze can. While on these adventures Helen must also stay in the good graces of her parents, protect her younger sister and master a fiddle solo to attend a summer camp with some of the best musicians in the world. A collection of Scottish landscape, folklore and fables are intertwined with the adventure to keep readers enthralled.

My complete review is available here on Yahoo! Voices.

Picturebook Review: My Name is Elizabeth!

2012-01-13T15:30:00.000-05:00

My Name is Elizabeth! is a picturebook written by Annika Dunklee and illustrated by Matthew Forsythe. Elizabeth loves her name, her pet duck, and her family. However, she is greatly bothered when people insist on calling her names like Beth or Lizzy. Elizabeth is a name she shares with a queen, and she does not want to be called anything else. Her name is great, and she loves everything about it, and freely lists all the wonderful things about the name Elizabeth. She puts up with the nicknames for as long as she can before making it known, loud and clear, that she wants to be called Elizabeth. In the end, she just might let some people get away with calling her something other than Elizabeth.

My Name is Elizabeth! is a fun, simple story that I easily relate to since I have always had to struggle with a serious dislike to any name derived nicknames people tried to use for me. Miss Elizabeth is a normal, feisty child with a mind of her own. I really loved the artwork for the book as well. The illustrations are two-toned, and do a great job of illustrating Elizabeth's nature and moods. The drawings are a little retro, and the format is simple and easy to follow. The speech bubbles combined with the two-toned illustrations give the format a comic book feel, which could appeal to many readers. While not every kid is lucky enough to have a pet duck, all will be able to relate to not like nicknames family and other people in their lives might use for them, and the need to speak up and communicate that to the people around them.

Early Book Review: How to Make a Golem and Terrify People

2012-01-07T11:40:00.000-05:00

How to Make a Golem and Terrify People by Allete J. Willis is a children's book set for publication on Jan. 23 2012, that is appropriate for children around 10 and older. Younger children with the reading skills for the book will enjoy it as well, but since the main character turns 12, it might be most relatable for those around the same age. The story opens with Edda, nicknamed "Mouse" for her small size and gentle nature. She wants to be braver, but keeps letting herself be frightened by a bully at school and other things in day-to-day life. When her home is robbed while her family is out celebrating her birthday Edda feels even more afraid and thinks that she will never escape her fear. The next day a new boy appears at school, Michael Scot, who is more than a little odd. He offers to help Edda be braver, to defeat her fear. Michael says that he is an alchemist and will help her to build a golem. Edda is reluctant to believe that anyone could bring a giant mud monster to life, but is willing to try. Can they really bring a golem to life and if they do will it really solve Edda's fear problem? My complete review is available here on Yahoo! Voices.

Early Book Review: Under His Influence by Justine Elyot

2012-01-06T20:00:00.000-05:00

Under His Influence by Justine Elyot is a novel schedule for release in e-book format on January 30 2012. Anna Rice is an innocent, vulnerable, romantic. After making an embarrassing mistake about which co-worker was asking her out for drinks Anna meets John Stone. The mysterious and enigmatic man sweeps her off her feet. He is rich, charming, and addictive. Mimi Leblanc is Anna's protective best friend, who is more than a little concerned about the whirl wind romance, and the heart of her friend. She does some investigating into John, and gets in over her head. Just who is John Stone, and what are his plans?

I am having trouble categorizing Under His Influence. Some might call it erotic suspense, or perhaps it is science fiction, or straight romance. I am just not sure. I feel like this book could have been divided into two full length novels, and each would have been better that the whole. Anna is not my favorite character; she feels more like a victim than someone that will find love from the very beginning of the book. She falls head over heels in love in mere moments. Mimi is much more pragmatic, and though might come off as hard-hearted, might just be the best character in the book. John is mysterious, and readers will have their suspicions as to just who, or what, he might be within the first chapter or so. Liam is a side character that seems to change dramatically throughout the book, for no plausible or discernible reason. The sex scenes are steamy, and a little over the top on occasion. The irritable attraction to John is important, but sometimes overstated.

I did not hate the book, and I am sorry that it might sound that way. I think I am just disappointed because the premise and characters could have just gone so much farther or deeper. The book could have been a toe curling erotic novel, or a thrilling science fiction story, but I felt like Under His Influence never really made its way to be either. It was interesting, and sometimes overwhelming. If you like science fiction and erotic, then you might enjoy Under His Influence. I picked it up, and briefly put it down before picking it back up to finish it. The story was interesting but I felt that in the desire to pack so much into one novel, there was something wonderful lost along the way.

Book Review: Tina's Mouth: An Existential Comic Diary by Keshni Kashyap

2012-01-04T20:43:00.002-05:00

Tina's Mouth: An Existential Comic Diary by Keshni Kashyap is a young adult graphic novel released on January 3 2012. This story follows one high school student's take on life and love through the lense of an existential diary she is keeping for a school project. Tina M. is a sophomore at a private school, Yarborough Academy. She is the youngest in her Southern California intellectual Indian family and does not really feel that she has a place in any single group. Through the journal, complete with black and white illustrations, readers follow Tina through some high school adventures. Tina's semester includes the loss of her most important friendship, the drama club, betrayal, cultural quests, and an important kiss. The humor of Tina's personality paired with the illustrations, are perfect purveyors of the issues that one teenager might come across on her quest to find herself, if she can only bring herself to care about the answer.

The complete review is available here on Yahoo! Voices.

Early Book Review: The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges

2012-01-04T08:40:00.006-05:00

The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridge is the first book in The Katerina Trilogy, a series set in St. Petersburg, Russia in 1888. This novel blends historical fiction with the legends of the area seamlessly. Katerina is a Duchess, hiding a mystical secret amid the aristocracy of balls and finishing school. One attempt to prevent someone else from casting a spell she releases herself to a few members of the court. While she wants to forget and deny her gift, those that have discovered her secret either fear her or want to harness her power for their own evil intentions. Some of their plans do not include anything like a happy life for Katerina, and no one is ready to share the whole truth. It is scheduled for release on January 10 2012.

My complete review is available here on Yahoo! Voices.