Sunday, March 25, 2012

Touch the Dark (Cassandra Palmer, #1) by Karen Chance

Touch the Dark (Cassandra Palmer, #1)Touch the Dark by Karen Chance

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


This is an adult urban fantasy series. (NC-17 for the sexiness of it all.)

Book Summary

Like any sensible girl, Cassie tries to avoid vampires. But when the bloodsucking Mafioso she escaped three years ago finds Cassie again with revenge in mind, she's forced to turn to the vampire Senate for protection.The undead senators won't help her for nothing, and Cassie finds herself working with one of their most powerful members, a dangerously seductive master vampire- and the price he demands may be more than Cassie is willing to pay.

My Review

First, let me say that Karen Chance writing is good along with her imagination and world building. My major problem is with writing style.

I just don’t get why in the middle of an action scene with get paragraphs that turn into pages of introspection and history. It seems out of place. If someone is throwing a punch, I should haven’t to wait several paragraphs to find out if the punch landed. Finish the action then have her reflect. Is that too much to ask. Action starts, then a history lesson and when the action begins again, I’ve already forgotten what was happening.

Okay, this book reads like fanfic of Laurell Hamilton’s Anita Blake series and not in a good way. I thought if one more guy in this story’s hair was referred to as “curls”, I would scream. Could no man have straight or wavy hair or even shorter hair? Not every good looking man has auburn or dark long curly hair. This was presented in present time. Her obsession with hair rivaled that of the Anita Blake series.

You all know, I don’t have to like the main character to enjoy a story. But that mean that everything else should be flawless or there should be compelling reasons why the character is the way they are. This is not the case. I do not like Cassie Palmer at all. Let me count the ways.

1. She’s full of herself with nothing to back it up.
2. She expects everyone to do her bidding and not do anything for themselves. Good example Billy Joe.
3. She thinks no one should make mistakes and is unforgiving of anything anyone does to her like she’s perfect. Good example Tomas.
4. She forgave one person who purposefully did something to her for his own gain yet she condemns another who was under orders with penalty of death to do what he did.
5. She’s selfish and not selfless with a few exceptions.

There are plot holes a many in this story as well. SPOILERS coming so don’t read on unless you’ve already read.

If you have the power to go back and change time and they did, why wouldn’t she go back and save her parents? You can argue that she didn’t want to change time. But she did and didn’t go back to fix it. So why wouldn’t selfish Cassie go back and protect her parents and not allow Tony to have her????

The men.

Tomas, I liked him a lot. I think he got the raw end of the deal in this story. All he did was trying to protect her and she condemned him for doing his job. Okay towards the end he made bad choices, but up to that point she didn’t know that. And frankly, I didn’t blame him for anything he did.

Mircea, was okay to me. I had my reservations. And it was kind of creepy that she saw him like an uncle when she was younger. Ignoring that, it was nice that he seemed to have genuine feelings for her. But of course, she was too good for him too in the end.

It also was infuriating with the whole reluctant virgin, Urgh! Be one or not, there is no in between.

I should mention that the sexy scenes were hot especially the out of body ones. The first and the last, YES! There was something good.

END of SPOILERS.

Overall, I’m planning to read the next audio book because I already purchased it. Goes to who never to buy the second in a series without reading the first one. But there was an audible sale…..

Audio Review
Cynthia Holloway is a good narrator. But I don’t like her in this series. I found myself losing focus and where most of that is the writing, I also have that problem with Morganville with Cynthia also reads. It could be she got the bad in the stick with two series that aren’t that great, but I’m not totally sold on that theory.

My book boyfriend is Tomas. The scowl is for Cassie, lol.

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Saturday, March 24, 2012

Ecstasy Unveiled (Demonica, #4) by Larissa Ione

Ecstasy Unveiled (Demonica, #4)Ecstasy Unveiled by Larissa Ione

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is an adult paranormal romance novel. (NC-17 for the sexiness of it all).

Book Summary

A DEMON ENSLAVED
Lore is a Seminus half-breed demon who has been forced to act as his dark master's assassin. Now to earn his freedom and save his sister's life, he must complete one last kill. Powerful and ruthless, he'll stop at nothing to carry out this deadly mission.

AN ANGEL TEMPTED
Idess is an earthbound angel with a wild side, sworn to protect the human Lore is targeting. She's determined to thwart her wickedly handsome adversary by any means necessary-even if that means risking her vow of eternal chastity. But what begins as a simple seduction soon turns into a passion that leaves both angel and demon craving complete surrender.
Torn between duty and desire, Lore and Idess must join forces as they battle their attraction for each other. Because an enemy from the past is rising again-one hellbent on vengeance and unthinkable destruction.

My Review

The fourth installment of the Demonica series was one I was looking forward to maybe a little too much. I had high hopes. This book was really good, and brought the brothers back together with more interaction although Wrath wasn’t in it much. Maybe because he was the focus of the last book. But we also got a lot of Sin.

There was so much bad boy in Lore in the previous installment, I was looking for that in this book to all come out. I have to say, he was more of a teddy bear than I expected. Don’t get me wrong, my guys don’t have to be bad. It’s just a letdown when the set up is that he was. Then again, I could have been reading more into that.

Otherwise, the sexual tension is in the book in spades. So the heat is in the story as expected. I must say I was taken with Collan and hope he lives up to his reputation in the next book.

Overall, great read. If you love the series, it won’t disappoint. If you haven’t read and enjoy Black Dagger Brotherhood, Lords of the Underworld, or the Highlander series, you’ll love this series as well.

Audio Review

Paul Boehmer seems like he would be a fantastic narrator. However, I didn’t feel his abilities suited this particular story. He didn’t have enough menace for what I felt the main character should have. Don’t get me wrong. I didn’t feel as though it was money not well spent getting this audio book, I just thought I’d rather hear him read a different story. He is a very good actor and all the feelings came through. I just thought it was Mr. Robinson reading West Side Story. A little too proper or nice and not gritty enough. Oh, well. I still recommend listening. It wasn’t as bad as some have said.

My book boyfriend Lore.

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Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Night Reigns (Immortal Guardians, #2)Night Reigns by Dianne Duvall

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars


This is an adult paranormal romance (rated NC-17 for sexiness of it all)

Book Summary

Ami isn't much for trusting strangers. She has a hard time trusting anyone. But she's no coward, and she's no pushover in the protection department either. So when she comes across a mysterious warrior taking on eight deranged vampires on his own, she doesn't hesitate to save his bacon. Of course, that was before she realized what one little rescue would get her into . . .

Marcus Grayden has been an immortal protector of humanity for eight hundred years, and at the moment he's not interested in backup. From the moment Ami arrives in his life, he can't deny that she's strong, smart, and extremely skilled at watching his back. But she's also destroying his protective solitude and stirring desires he can't bear to awaken. After all, whatever her secrets — how can she defeat death itself?

My Review

Don’t get me wrong, this story was good and I don’t regret the purchase. But the beginning of the story was okay for me. I think it was because we were left on such a huge cliffhanger, I wanted answers right away. And we just didn’t get them.

But with that said, I did fall in love again. I was intrigued with Marcus from the first book so it was an easy transition into this book. But Amy was a different matter. Certainly it made for tension wondering what was going on with Amy and a different character I won’t mention for spoilers.

So, overall, this book was a mesh of non-human characters I don’t think was every done which makes this a success because I believe she pulled it off. All I can say is vampires and this other creatures have to be my favorite topics to read or watch on the big screen.

The cliffhanger isn’t as earth shattering as the last, but certainly we are left wanting more. I hope and I think Mr. Reluctant Immortal is the next sexy guy up. If not, I’d love it to be their fearless leader.

AUDIO REVIEW
Kirsten Potter continues to do this series justice. What I like most is that she continued with the choices in voice for the characters from the previous installment. She didn’t recreate them because maybe she was more comfortable speaking a certain way. This made it easier to continue with the story although different characters were the main focus.

Still loving Roland and wishing he were more in this story, my book boyfriend is Marcus.

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Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Still Missing by Chevy Stevens

Still MissingStill Missing by Chevy Stevens

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This is an adult thriller (rated NC-17 for subject matter)

Book Summary

On the day she was abducted, Annie O’Sullivan, a 32-year-old realtor, had three goals—sell a house, forget about a recent argument with her mother, and be on time for dinner with her ever-patient boyfriend. The open house is slow, but when her last visitor pulls up in a van as she's about to leave, Annie thinks it just might be her lucky day after all.

Interwoven with the story of the year Annie spent as the captive of a psychopath in a remote mountain cabin, which unfolds through sessions with her psychiatrist, is a second narrative recounting events following her escape—her struggle to piece her shattered life back together and the ongoing police investigation into the identity of her captor.

Still Missing is that rare debut find--a shocking, visceral, brutal and beautifully crafted debut novel.

My Review

This story isn’t for the faint of heart. It deals with tough issues and is brilliantly written. You will feel what Annie felt through her gripping journey into the past and back to the present. Neither is any good. This is the kind of story that will stick with you long after you close the book.

I feel numb for a story that wasn’t about me but so real it could be me. And that is just scary in itself. I cringed and covered my eyes as I listened to the story unfold as if I could stop hearing the bad things that happened.

The author is brilliant in her execution of this story by telling it through Annie’s therapy sessions. It gives nothing away to say she survived the horrific ordeal because surviving didn’t me the bad things that happened to her or because of what she went through was over.

The characters are well crafted and I must say when you can feel all that Annie felt even the parts you shouldn’t feel, you understood why she could feel them. Some of the parts that brought me closest to tears is what Annie lost because of what was taken from her. None of it her fault, yet she was a loser in my mind all around. But the book isn’t all depressing. This story is a story about survival that doesn’t end when she was free from the freak (her words).

If you’ve ever been violated or held against your will this may not be the story for you. At the same time, some in that category may find it still to be a good read. So I will leave that decision to each individual with that warning. With that said, I do recommend.

Audio Review
Angela Dawe did a fantastic job with this story. It felt like she was Annie telling her own story. I’ve listened to a lot of great narrations and this is one of them.

It almost seems bad to have a book boyfriend. But if I didn’t the freak would win. So my book boyfriend is Gary. And there is so many reason why I chose him. You’ll have to read to find out.

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Monday, March 19, 2012

Intertwined (Intertwined, #1) by Gena Showalter

Intertwined (Intertwined, #1)Intertwined by Gena Showalter

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is a young adult urban fantasy novel.

Book Summary

There’s something about the new guy at Crossroads High…

Most sixteen-year-olds have friends. Aden Stone has four human souls living inside him:

One can time travel.
One can raise the dead.
One can possess another human.
One can tell the future.

Everyone thinks he’s crazy, which is why he’s spent his entire life shuffled between mental institutions and juvie. All of that is about to change, however. For months Aden has been having visions of a beautiful girl—a girl who carries centuries-old secrets. A girl who will either save him or destroy him.

Together they’ll enter a dark world of intrigue and danger... but not everyone will come out alive.

My Review

So let me tell you a little about this story. There is a lot going on. But that didn’t bother me. In fact, I think that added to the appeal for me.

Step one. The writing was choppy and juvenile for me in the beginning. I guess the author was going for authentic teenage speak, but even the inner dialogue was the same. And for me, it made the story fall flat. Somewhere however, all that is eclipsed and the story really takes off for me. I was able to look past all of that.

Step Two. The characters. There are a lot of them. Despite the number, for the most part, the author does a great job of letting the reader to get to know enough about each to enjoy the story. Although only one really interested me.

Step Three. The plot. I have to say that this story is a mesh of all things paranormal. It may seem like a lot to some, but for me I found that the author did a really good job of putting it all together in an interesting way. There is a little paranormal for everyone. Because there was so much going on, I never really knew what was going to happen next. The author did a really good job of answering our questions not too soon or too late, but right before the reader might get frustrated which was good.

Overall, it was an interesting read. I would recommend for those paranormal readers who don’t mind reading a book with mini storylines that are unfolding and bringing in new aspects to the story with them along the way. But this story surely sets us up for the next one.

Audio Review
Jessica Almasy does an amazing job at keeping the high number of character straight with different voice inflections. I love her Julien. But I have to say, I probably enjoyed this story that much more because of her great narration.

My new hot book boyfriend is Riley.

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Sunday, March 18, 2012

Indie Spotlight - Dark Matter (Elemental Enmity, #2) by Christie Rich

Dark Matter (Elemental Enmity, #2)Dark Matter by Christie Rich

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This is an older young adult paranormal romance novel.

Book Summay

Rayla Tate’s dreams for the future shattered when she discovered she was an Elemental capable of manipulating matter. Thrust, once again, into the magical fae realm of Faeresia, she has an important choice to make. But now that she has Heath to contend with, deciding between Zach and Luke is the least of her concerns. Tall, dark and lethal to her will, her attraction to Heath eclipses all she has experienced with any other lord, but he is using compulsion to wear her down. If only she could trust her feelings?

In a desperate attempt to escape Heath, she accepts the help of a little troll and finally gets what she wants; however, her relief is short lived. Things go terribly wrong when a dark force closes in on her, threatening to steal her burgeoning power before she even has a chance to test her abilities. Now, with Rayla as their captive, the Order will stop at nothing to create a male Elemental, and willing or not, Rayla is the key.

Caught up in the age-old battle for dominance between human and fae, only one question matters to her now—will she be able to save those she loves most without losing herself in the process? Or will she be forever haunted by the choices she alone can make?

My Review

Overall, I liked this story more than the first. We were immersed in Christie Rich’s Fae world throughout most of the story. There we learned just the extent to Christie’s imagination in a good way.

I wasn’t endeared more to Rayla in this story. But that is okay, I didn’t have to like her much to enjoy this story. She was wrought again with indecision and I wanted to slap her at times and hug her other ones. Okay, let me give her some slack, surrounded by hot guys, I think I would be just as confused if they all wanted me as well. We meet a new suitor in this story. For me the jury is still out on him.

The storyline was one, I don’t think I could imagine and that’s a good thing. We went places I hadn’t expected to go. And when I though all my questions were answered, something else would happen. All that did was help make this story a page turner.

Would I recommend yes. For those who love stories about the fae and don’t mind love triangle, give this story a shot. You may find a new series to love.

My book boyfriend, Finn. Since he wasn't on the menu, I guess you will have to read why I chose him.

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Indie Spotlight - Five (Elemental Enmity, #1) by Christie Rich

Five (Elemental Enmity, #1)Five by Christie Rich

My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars



This is an older young adult paranormal romance novel.

Book Summary

Rayla Tate was just a child when her mother disappeared from her life forever. Raised by her aunt Grace in a small town, she has lived a relatively uneventful but extremely sheltered life. She doesn’t know it yet, but she is special. She has been hidden from the fae who have lived secretly among us since the beginning of time. Descended from an ancient blood-line of Elementals, only she has the power to crown the first fae high-king.

Sick of provincial living and the dictates of her aunt, Rayla flees the safety of her home and runs away to college with her best friend. However, excitement over her newfound freedom is short-lived when she finds herself being chased by a mysterious stranger on her way to school. She is drawn to him immediately but resists the compulsion she feels. He disappears into the night, but she is certain he is following her.

Rayla struggles to deal with the encounter while she adapts to her new environment. To make matters worse, Aunt Grace reveals that Rayla will soon be hunted by a pack of fae lords, each hoping to claim her power for his own. She soon finds herself surrounded by stunning men. Are they fae, or is this just normal college life? More importantly, who can she trust when she can’t trust herself to be near them?

My Review

The second time around reading was better and smoother than the first. This story has a lot of potential and held a lot of good more so than bad. It really took off towards the end. There is a hand full of hot guys and I can’t hide my excitement for all the drama.

My biggest problem I had was with the main character, Rayla. She took the news that she was different a lot calmer and more accepting than I would have expected. She allowed a boy into her more private secrets a little easier than I would have thought. However, in some respects I understood some of her decisions.

My other problem was with the “insta love” between some of the character but especially Cassie and one of the Lords that was suppose to court Rayla. But that’s me.

Otherwise, the story was original and unique in a way that made me want to know more about the characters.

Towards the end of the book, things took an unexpected turn for the better. Once we got to see the world of fae spun my the author, things really took off. There is a really good story in there. Still with that said, being the curious sort, I will the next installment.

This story was better this time around. I’m giving it 3.5 stars.

My book boyfriend is Zach.

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Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Darkness Dawns (Immortal Guardians, #1) by Dianne Duvall

Darkness Dawns (Immortal Guardians, #1)Darkness Dawns by Dianne Duvall

My rating: 5 of 5 stars





This is an adult paranormal romance novel. (NC-17 for the sexiness of it all)

Book Summary

In this dazzling, innovative debut paranormal series, Duvall beckons readers into a world of vampires, immortals, and humans with extraordinary gifts--where passion can last forever. Original.

My Review

I don’t know about you, but I’ve read and seen a ton of vampire stories a lot of different ways. I’ve liked some and loved others. This is one of the stories I loved.

Okay, first let me be honest I did a bit of eye rolling with the author’s mythology on her vampires. They were a bit goody goody for me. I have to say though, in the end it just worked. The author did a bang up job at plugging any holes and making sure everything was plausible.

Those that follow my reviews also know I hate unbelievable love. I encounter books all the time that straddle the edge or down right fall into that trap. But this author made me a believer. She plugged the hole of “insta love” with so much gauze of reasonability and fail proof logic, I had no way but to except what happened.

What I really like about this story is the bad boy here isn’t a jerk. The author pulled out the stops to make this guy unapproachable without him being rude to the female lead. He’s an alpha male but a gentleman through and through.

I have to say this was a love story for me for the ages. Hell, I fell in love with Roland along the way. I even fell for his cat. The characters are so well written, I was taken in immediately with this story. The storyline was original and creative. Okay, the basis for the storyline has been done a hundred times, but boy meets girl, danger ensues, they fall in love, and danger is adverted. But how it is done is imaginative. When I think I’m smarter, the author points out exactly what I was thinking. I couldn’t find any holes to plug because she plugs them herself. She just has a gifted way of telling a story.

Overall, a bang up story and one you shouldn’t hesitate to read. I totally recommend for paranormal lovers. This series will be liked by those who enjoy Black Dagger Brotherhood, Demonica, Lords of the Underworld, and the Highlander series. There are many more great men to explore in this series as I was torn with who I loved the most.

Look out Bones (Night Huntress series) there is a new British vamp in town. And his name is Roland and he is my latest book boyfriend.

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Monday, March 12, 2012

By a Thread (Elemental Assassin, #6) by Jennifer Estep

By a Thread (Elemental Assassin, #6)By a Thread by Jennifer Estep

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



An adult urban fantasy novel. (NC-17 for the sexiness of it all)

Book Summary

When killing people is your job, there’s no such thing as a vacation.

Then again, how often does an assassin live long enough to enjoy her retirement? In this line of work, you either get lucky or you get dead. And since I destroyed my nemesis Mab Monroe a few weeks ago, all of Ashland’s lowlifes are gunning to make a name for themselves by taking out the lethal Spider—me, Gin Blanco. So I’m leaving behind my beloved barbecue joint and heading south with my baby sister, Bria, to cool my heels in a swanky beach town. Call it a weekend of fun in the sun.

But when a powerful vampire with deadly elemental magic threatens an old friend of Bria’s, it looks like I’ll have to dig my silverstone knives out of my suitcase after all. Complicating matters further is the reappearance of Detective Donovan Caine, my old lover. But Donovan is the least of my problems. Because this time, the danger is hot on my trail, and not even my elemental Ice and Stone magic may be enough to save me from getting buried in the sand—permanently.

My Review

I have to say that Jennifer Estep made me remember why I love this series with this book. So much so, I felt kind of lost when it was over wondering what I could read that would live up to this.

This is probably my favorite of the books next to the first or earliest ones that drew me in, in the first place.

Let me just say, that shamelessly, I wrote Jennifer after one of the books because of a certain event that left me in turmoil. Jennifer was kind enough to write back answering my question and my suggestion. I’m not going to take any credit other than, I guess I got what I asked for not exactly when and how I wanted it. But in the end, I think it was all for the best.

This was a great book that brought us back closer to how things were where this series began. It was refreshing to have a story without Mab. There was someone new in town. Or should I say Gin was in a new town. I’ll let you guys read and figure that one out.

This to me is one of the best adult urban fantasy series I’ve read. For all you readers who like your action with a dash of romance, this is the series for you. Gin is a no holds bar kind of girl. She’s not snarky all the time, but she certain has her quips when needed. I have to say my second favorite character in the series would be Finn. I love Finn. Early in the series I desperately wanted him and Gin to be together, but it shows you, that sometime the author knows better than the reader, lol.

If I had one complaint it would be that I wish Owen would be in the series more. Donovan was always in the action with Gin when he was in the series. Owen is always off on the side. I understand he lets Gin be who she is, but I still like my guys ultra strong. Maybe he can save Gin once. I don’t know. Anyway, this was a great book.

Audio Review

Lauren Fortgang does a wonderful job with this series as usual. I don't think I could ever listen to anyone else do Gin. She has that character nailed. Lauren doesn't have a wide array of voices she uses in the series, however I never get confused as to who is speaking. Again, Lauren is as fantastic as the writing for this series. Love it.

My book boyfriend is Owen. (he's eyes and nose are exactly right, but work with me here, lol)

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Friday, March 9, 2012

Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson #3) by Darynda Jones

Third Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson #3)Third Grave Dead Ahead by Darynda Jones

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This is an adult paranormal romance/urban fantasy novel.

Book Summary

Charley Davidson—grim reaper extraordinaire, private investigator . . . meh—is practicing her profession under the influence, caffeine and copious amounts of it, due to an extreme desire to induce insomnia. Every time she closes her eyes, Reyes Farrow, the part-human, part-supermodel son of Satan, is there. Only thing is, he’s a tad peeved. She did bind him for all eternity, so it’s hard blame him. But 13 days without a wink is bound to bring out the crazy in a girl. So, when a man hires her to find his wife, Charley accepts the job with one goal in mind: Put the man behind bars, and not the wet kind. She can sense the guilt waft off him and vows to find the woman’s body and prove he’s a murderer.

In the meantime, Reyes is back in prison and none too happy about it . . . so Charley thinks, until she is carjacked by the dark-haired rake, who swears the very man he went to prison for killing is not only alive, but close by. And he wants Charley to find him.

While a visit to her old friend Rocket sheds no light on Reyes’s situation, Charley finds out the man’s wife is still alive and time is running out. Finding her before she dies would be a miracle, but she has to try. Together with the help of a fashion-impaired receptionist named Cookie, Charley sets out to bring the bad guys to justice. She just hopes Reyes is not one of them. And that she’s not hallucinating from her self-induced bout with insomnia.

My Review

This third installment is nothing short of the first two. This begins close to where the previous novel left off. In this novel, Reyes is nothing short of scary. He’s pissed. Charley is left to solve a mystery and deal with his wraith. Charley however may have a new beau?

This story has new revelations and still scratching our head over Reyes and what he will do next. We learn more about things in Charley’s past that she didn’t even know about. UB is always there and we get a shock that almost has us thinking who will protect Charley in the end, but it turns out to be an unexpected twist. I have to wonder about the gang that owns the mental hospital where Rocket lives. It seems like we will get more of that story to come.

Would I recommend this book? I highly recommend.

My book boyfriend is Reyes.

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Thursday, March 8, 2012

Indie Spotlight - The Gates (The Resistance Trilogy, #2) by Rachael Wade

The Gates (The Resistance Trilogy, #2)The Gates by Rachael Wade

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is a adult paranormal romance. (rated NC-17 for the sexiness of it all)

Book Summary

Armed with more unsettling knowledge about Gavin Devereaux and her circle of friends, Camille Hart is faced with new adversities and lethal propositions when she returns to the Amaranth exile to carry out Gavin’s risky crusade.

Realizing her journey through the bayou was only the beginning of her struggle to stay with Gavin, she finds that leaving her Louisiana home is the least of her worries. New evils await her on the other side, and as she and her friends press on with their mission, they are confronted with the reality that everything doesn't always go according to plan.

As secrets unfold and alliances are formed and broken, only the strongest will survive and the power of love will be tested when a war between witches, humans, and vampires erupts into an all-out power struggle and all is on the verge of being lost.

My Review

Starting off where book one left off, Camille is thrust into Gavin’s world. I was mad at Gavin in the beginning wondering why the wait, it was a little to Twilighty for me. But in the end, the author’s choice was the better road. Shows what I know, lol.

Somewhere in the middle I was really pissed, at Gavin and the choice he made. He stayed true, but I didn’t have to like it.

Camille and Gavin will be put to the test in this book. I can’t say more without giving a whole lot away. Scarlet, whether a color a particular nemesis wears a lot or a name of a scheming vixen, wasn’t something either of them wished for in this story.

As far as characters go, we got more of Audrey whom I really like. She is the kind of friend who will always be there for you. We got a bit more of Gabe and Josh, and a new character too.

The final book in this trilogy looks like it will be the apex of them all. I’m really looking forward to it. If you haven’t read this book or this series, pick it up.

My book boyfriend is Josh.

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Second Grave on the Left (Charley Davidson, #2) by Darynda Jones

Second Grave on the Left (Charley Davidson, #2)Second Grave on the Left by Darynda Jones

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This is an adult paranormal romance/urban fantasy novel.

Book Summary

When Charley is rudely awakened in the middle of the night by her best friend who tells her to get dressed quickly and tosses clothes out of the closet at her, she can’t help but wonder what Cookie’s up to. Leather scrunch boots with a floral miniskirt? Together? Seriously? Cookie explains that a friend of hers named Mimi disappeared five days earlier and that she just got a text from her setting up a meet at a coffee shop downtown. They show up at the coffee shop, but no Mimi. But Charley finds a message on the bathroom wall. Mimi left a clue, a woman’s name. Mimi’s husband explains that his wife had been acting strange since she found out an old friend of hers from high school had been found murdered a couple weeks prior. The same woman Mimi had named in her message.
Meanwhile, Reyes Alexander Farrow (otherwise known as the Son of Satan. Yes. Literally) has left his corporeal body and is haunting Charley. He’s left his body because he’s being tortured by demons who want to lure Charley closer. But Reyes can’t let that happen. Because if the demons get to Charley, they’ll have a portal to heaven. And if they have a portal to heaven…well, let’s just say it wouldn’t be pretty. Can Charley handle hot nights with Reyes and even hotter days tracking down a missing woman? Will Cookie ever get a true fashion sense? And is there enough coffee and chocolate in the world to fuel them as they do?

Here is your signpost for the most hilarious read of the summer: Second Grave On The Left.

My Review

This second installment proves to be as good as the first. Charley continues with her snarkiness keeping the book witty at times to lighten the heavier aspects. Still a sexy story we aren’t deprived of our hunky hero/villain. Left heartbroken at end, I had to push on to the next.

Charley is still Charley. And now that we know who and what Reyes is we are left trying to understand his true purpose besides keeping Charley safe. Cookie is really brought into this one and they make a really good team.

The storyline has a main plot with mini stories that surround to keep you from getting bored. But I highly doubt you can get bored with this series.

Would I recommend this book? I highly recommend.

My book boyfriend is Reyes.

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Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Celebrity in Death by J.D. Robb

Celebrity in DeathCelebrity in Death by J.D. Robb

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This is an adult mystery thriller suspense novel/police procedural

Book Summary

Lieutenant Eve Dallas is no party girl, but she’s managing to have a reasonably good time at the celebrity-packed bash celebrating The Icove Agenda, a film based on one of her famous cases. It’s a little spooky seeing the actress playing her, who looks almost like her long-lost twin. Not as unsettling, though, as seeing the actress who plays Peabody—drowned in the lap pool on the roof of the director’s luxury building.
Talented but rude, and widely disliked, K. T. Harris had made
an embarrassing scene during dinner. Now she’s at the center of a crime scene—and Eve is more than ready to get out of her high heels and strap on her holster, to step into the role she was born to play: cop.

My Review

I’ve enjoyed this series from the very beginning. Not every book is a home run but every book has been above average really good. This story for me felt more like an average day in Eve’s life. ******spoiler*****Although Roarke was there I think unpredictably he wasn’t as involved in the case as he has in the past. I think maybe the J.D. Robb (ask Nora Roberts) wanted to show life for Eve with the big guy there one hundred percent of the time. But all you Roarke lovers, he was in the book enough, don’t get me wrong. Also, Eve seemed to depend on Peabody a bit more. I felt like the Nora either wanted Peabody to appear capable enough to be Eve’s partner or this is a transition to where Eve finally gets her promotion.*****end of spoiler*****

Nora knows how to write a story. This is a given with all her success. She also has a way that I haven’t found with any other writer to give a well delivered story in third person but still letting you in the heads of all the characters. She has a gift.

The storyline was different for Eve. A lot of things happen and don’t happen that are clearly observed by the characters, so it is clear that this departure in storyline was planned. Based on something that happens in the story that is briefly mentioned, I have a feeling that we will be back to what we’ve come to expect from this series in the next installment.

Will I recommend this series? Yes, absolutely.

My book boyfriend is Julien. I love Roarke, so once you read you will understand why I chose Julien.

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Monday, March 5, 2012

Pandemonium (Delirium, #2) - Lauren Oliver

Pandemonium (Delirium, #2)Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars



This is a young adult dystopian novel. (Rating PG for mild violence)

Book Summary

I’m pushing aside the memory of my nightmare,
pushing aside thoughts of Alex,
pushing aside thoughts of Hana and my old school,
push,
push,
push,
like Raven taught me to do.
The old life is dead.
But the old Lena is dead too.
I buried her.
I left her beyond a fence,
behind a wall of smoke and flame.

My Review

This story was like a good slow cooked stew. It couldn’t be rushed. It had to simmer to be great. I have to admit I had high hopes for this sequel. I wouldn’t say it missed the mark, but it wasn’t a knock you out of the ball park story. This is because like Cremer did in her second installment of the Nightshade series, we find ourselves in a new world with new characters that have to be built from scratch. And in this case, that took time. There were a few characters that things happened to that should have affected me more than it did. But the pacing and development didn’t allow me too.

But by the mid point the story started to take off for me. I’m Team Alex, so it was a bit hard for me to get into another character. But ultimately, I fell prey to his charms. I’m leaving out the name on purpose because you’ll have to read to see who I am referring to.

Therefore I can’t say much about the characters without giving the story away. But I will say that Oliver does a good job of developing her character albeit that it takes some time. Lena grows a lot in the story and there are many lessons to learn. But Oliver is very good at sending important life lessons through her writing.

This is a world building book. So it reads almost like a first in the series. It is good yet it is on a path of slow and steady. The author took a past and present approach to the story that switched things up a bit but didn’t add to the pacing of the story. Oliver however is an amazing writer and she filled the pages with words that let you see the story unfolding. So I was content to read, watch and wait.

I wasn’t shocked by either of the revelations in the story which was kind of disappointing. I like surprises. I knew exactly who prisoner 5996 when they met. Also the bit at the end, I saw a mile away. Although I was a bit shocked by the words that were said and the tone that implied what they meant. Anyway, another year’s wait.

Do I recommend? Yes. But Oliver has left us again dangling on the edge of insanity waiting for the next book. Marketing ploy? Sure, but I still can’t wait to read. So for you all that can wait to read this one or the series, you might want to because twelve months is a long time.

AUDIO REVIEW
Sarah Drew is the narrator again for this book. She didn’t disappoint. She did a good job of throwing her voice to distinguish the characters so I didn’t have trouble following. I thought she was a good choice for this series.

My book boyfriend is Julien.

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Sunday, March 4, 2012

Obsidian (Lux, #1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Obsidian (Lux, #1)Obsidian by Jennifer L. Armentrout

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars



This is a young adult sci-fi type thriller/romance.

Book Summary

Starting over sucks.When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I'd pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring.... until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.And then he opened his mouth.Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something...unexpected happens. The hot alien living next door marks me.You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon's touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I'm getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades. If I don't kill him first, that is.

My Review

Let me start this review by saying I picked this book up at around 1pm and I was finished by 8pm. I hardly put it down, so that is saying a lot.

Quick Review –

Too many other works of fiction came to mind as I was reading. The plot was somewhat predicable. Yet, I found myself unable to tear myself from reading it. I guess you can equate it to a car wreck, the relationship disaster yet you can help but watch.

Full Review -

As a lover of X-Files, Roswell, Dawson’s Creek, Stars Wars when I was a kid – what was not to like about this book.

But here is the thing, as I was reading I kept being reminded of different books I’ve read, tv shows, and movies. Not only did the author herself bring them up, certain phrases and situations also reminded me of popular books. I really don’t want to think about other stories while I’m reading. Also, there were several times while reading I thought I missed something and I had to go back and re-read passages. There were a couple of plot holes too especially with the last battle. So even though this book deserves more than four stars, I couldn’t give it five either.

Characters. I couldn’t help but like Katy. She was an avid reader and book blogger. She could knew the quote from my favorite sci-fi show. What wasn’t there to like? I’ll tell you who, Daemon. Even though he reminded me somewhat of Max from Roswell, Max wasn’t a douche. Sorry girls but I’m not into jerks. Maybe a part of me couldn’t empathize with him because I knew what he was. This book was at a slight disadvantage because of the hype. I’m not a reader of book summaries because I like to be surprised. But enough people talked about the book, what he was I knew before going in. If I had not, I might have swooned in the revelation. But I didn’t. I will say the bonus POV scenes at the end of him, did help some. And Dee was just great. However, I didn’t feel like I really got to know the characters all that well. Hopefully, we will in book two.

The storyline was interesting obviously. It’s hard to give more information without spoilers. So I will say that I can’t say it overly original. Certain aspects were but it felt like it began as a base model of a lot of popular books with a lot of great author’s flourishes and fascinating tweaks to take it where it went. Again, don’t get me wrong, it’s not often I read a book in one setting. Life gets in the way of that. So, I can’t really be that critical because I did really enjoy reading it.

So let me not say more. I would highly recommend for young adult fiction lovers. It was a good book and I look forward to reading more from this author.

And for this book my reluctant book boyfriend is Daemon.

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Rapture (Rapture Trilogy #1) by Phillip W. Simpson

Rapture (Rapture, #1)Rapture by Phillip W. Simpson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This is a young adult dystopian/urban fantasy novel.

Book Summary

The Rapture has occurred, just as the Bible predicted. The faithful have risen up to Heaven. Those left behind are in a living hell.

Earth burns, hell-like in its oppressive heat. Every volcano in the world has erupted, and tsunamis and earthquakes continue to devastate the planet. Clouds continually rain ash onto the scorched landscape, sparking fires all around. Plants and animals are dying. Food is scarce. The night sky is devoid of stars, and the moon - when it can be seen - is the colour of blood.

The remnants of humanity fight for survival. Most have fled the cities and now hide in caves deep in the mountains. By night, demons stalk the Earth, capturing the remaining humans and killing them - if they're lucky. The less fortunate are converted to worship of the Devil, and ushered into endless hell.

Eighteen year old, Sam (short for Samael) was raised in the town of Jacob's Ladder, Utah. It is appropriately enough near to a place of natural scenic beauty called Devil's garden. He finds himself alone, unable to rise up with his family because he is half demon. His mother, a devout Christian, was seduced by Satan and conceived his child. She smuggled the boy to an old friend Hikari, a Japanese sword master and demon expert. Since then, Hikari and his daughter, Aimi, have been all the family Sam has known.

Now they're gone, and Sam must set out on the mission Hikari charged him with long ago: to help all the humans left behind. Armed only with his beloved Japanese swords and his wits, Sam wanders the post-apocalyptic world alone, separated forever from everyone he loves. Cursed by his demonic heritage, he must now embark on a quest that will take him across the US to the City of Angels.

There he will confront his destiny. There he must fight to save a friend ... and the souls of the living.

My Review

This story stems from the Christian foretelling of the rapture. Although religious in nature, ultimately the story is about good vs. bad / nature vs. nurture. For those not religious, look at it from the aforementioned and take a leap like you would any other fictional story you would read such as stories with werewolves and vampires. I didn’t get the feeling of being preached to while reading.

Sam, the main character, a half human, half demon, is a well thought out character. Both sides of his nature show themselves throughout the story and we feel his struggle. Although the rest of the characters were not totally flushed out as the main character, Sam is a loner and this is his story. So I would expect to feel passionately about any of the others. Don’t get me wrong, there is substance to the supporting cast, but that is just it. They are supporting.

The storyline as mentioned above is that from a dystopian perspective. Something has happened and the world is forever changed. How will the characters survive in this new land. So for those skittish about the religious aspects should consider reading it from this perspective. With the added supernatural presence, this book dives into the urban fantasy realm. I found this book to be very interesting as I have with all the dystopian novels I’ve read.

Would I recommend this book? Yes, it is a good read.

My book boyfriend is Sam. Once you read the story you will so understand why I chose this picture.

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Saturday, March 3, 2012

Fifty Shades Freed (Fifty Shades, #3) by E.L. James


Fifty Shades Freed by E L James

This is an adult romance/erotica type novel. Rated NC-17 for the sexiness of it all.

5 out of 5 stars


Book Summary

When unworldly student Ana Steele first encountered the driven, damaged young entrepreneur Christian Grey it sparked a sensual affair that changed both their lives irrevocably. Shocked, intrigued, and ultimately repelled by Christian’s singular sexual tastes, Ana demanded a deeper commitment; determined to keep her, Christian agreed.

Now, together, they have more – love, passion, intimacy, and a world of infinite possibilities. But Ana always knew that loving her Fifty Shades would not be easy, and being together poses challenges neither of them ever anticipated. Ana must somehow learn to share Christian’s opulent lifestyle without sacrificing her own integrity, identity or independence; Christian must somehow overcome his compulsion to control, and lay to rest the horrors that blighted his past and haunt his present.

Just when it seems that together their love can conquer any obstacle, misfortune, malice and fate combine to make Ana’s worst nightmares come true. Alone and desperate, she must face down the poisoned legacy of Christian’s past.

Seductive, shocking, sad and funny, Fifty Shades Freed is the compelling final volume in the Fifty Shades trilogy.

My Review

The final book in this love trilogy may have started somewhat slow, there was more to savor. I love how the characters have grown and are still growing. The worst part of the story was that it all had to come to an end. I for one will read again.

This series is way more than the BDSM that is prevalent in the story. This book is about a physically abuse boy who was taken under the wing of a sexual predator in his adolescence. Absence the skills to understand who to deal with his emotions, he uses the only skills he was taught when it came to male and female sexual relationships.

In comes Ana, an innocent by all accounts. She however is given the choice and is never coerced to do anything that she doesn’t want to. This book isn’t about pain which some suggest. The pain part is not a form of pleasure but that as punishment willed only by a hand on a bottom seldom in the story. This is the only thing that Christian knows before meeting Ana. Even still the “pain” isn’t really much in the story as some try to make it out to be.

This is a journey about trust and learning how to love when both parties earlier life was fracture in some respects. To overcome ones nature or nurture and find unconditional love. This story is heart warming and I will forever be grateful to E.L. James for writing it.

My book husband is Christian. Matt Bomer (see previous review) will forever be my Christian. Henry Cavill who was brought to my attention by Jessica from http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.com .

But I will leave with a montage using Henry Cavill.

Christian and Charlie Tango

You Tube video from Dunhill that just fits.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKqFMxdN3Pc

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Christian and Ana
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5s3Y1NA29tA

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If I were doing a movie for fifty, I would so use this footage from Dunhill.


Christian and Charlie Tango

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKqFMxdN3...

Christian and Ana in London

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5s3Y1NA29...



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Friday, March 2, 2012

Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors by Molly Harper

Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors (Jane Jameson, #4)Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors by Molly Harper

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This is an adult paranormal romance novel. This book is rated NC-17 for mild sexual content.

Book Summary

Just as Jane Jameson’s unlife seems to be stabilizing, fate sinks its fangs firmly into her butt. Despite her near-phobia of all things marital, her no-frills nighttime nuptials to her sexy boyfriend Gabriel are coming along smoothly. But the road to wedded bliss gets bumpy when a teenage acquaintance is fatally wounded in front of Jane’s shop and she turns him to save his life. The Council pronounces Jane responsible for the newborn vamp until he can control his thirst.

Jane’s kitchen at River Oaks barely holds enough Faux Type O to satiate the cute teen’s appetite and maintain Gabriel’s jealous streak at a slow simmer. As if keeping her hyperactive childe from sucking the blood out of the entire neighborhood isn’t enough to deal with, the persnickety ghost of Jane’s newly deceased Grandma Ruthie has declared a war on the fanged residents of River Oaks. Suddenly,
choosing monogrammed cocktail napkins and a cake that she can’t eat seems downright relaxing in comparison.

Tensions inside the house are growing…and outside, a sinister force is aiming a stake straight for the center of Gabriel’s heart. Most brides just have to worry about choosing the right dress, but Jane fears that at this rate, she’ll never make it down the aisle for the wedding all nice girls dream of…

My Review

This was a very good read as I expected from this author. This story isn’t rocket science and it is meant to be light. There isn’t a hard nose mystery to solve or danger lurking around the corner to make you say boo. But what it is, is a well delivery, well crafted and well executed witty story.

I love Jane Jameson. She is a no nonsense kind of girl who gets to the point with her well timed quips. Her leading man Gabriel who was a bit of a bad boy has been somewhat tamed in this story. Thankfully, Jaime is brought in to fill in those shoes to a point. Molly Harper knows how to craft character and make them jump out of the page with fresh life.

The storyline was interesting as we watch Jane go through another transition in her life which is always funny to read. If you haven’t read this series, it’s a must for those needing a break from the heavy stuff. There is laughter and a bit of sexiness, nothing over the top.

Will I recommend this book? Yes, heck yes. I will proudly suggest people read this is. It is pretty bloody fantastic.

My book boyfriend is Jamie.

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Since I never posted Gabriel, consider this a double treat.

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