Thursday, August 29, 2013

Falling Stars (A Surah Stormsong Novel, Book 2) by H.D. Gordon

 
Book Blurb....
 
Surah Stormsong's life has fallen down around her in the past week. Her father is in a coma induced by demon poison, two Highborn Sorceresses have been murdered, and a crazed Sorcerer by the name of Black Heart has made it his mission to take the kingdom for his own. As princess, and next in line to the throne, Surah is his primary target. But he's not the only one she has to look out for.

Now, Surah is on the run, having just helped Charlie Redmine escape from the castle dungeons. This makes her a traitor in the eyes of many, as Charlie is not only a common man suspected of murder and treason, but also Black Heart's younger brother.

The stars are crossed against the two lovers, the universe trying to keep them apart. In the end, will the stars align for Surah and Charlie, or will they fall from the heavens, dead and lifeless, like the tears of angels?

My Quick Review

First, this author always impresses me with her writing. She is super creative and can write circles around many. Second, I fell in love with her Alexa Montgomery series. When it was over and I found out she was writing a new series, I was all over it. Third, so this series is so different than the other but sort of set in the same world. But you don't need to read the other series to read this one. However, once you read and fall in love with this author as I have, you will end up reading it.


HAVEN'T READ BOOK ONE....


Book Blurb...

Once upon a time, a common boy fell in love with a princess. It was a hopeless, forbidden love, grown in a world where sorcery and magic rule over all. Now, dark times are brewing, and destiny will bring them together, while fate works to keep them apart. Extraordinary battles will be fought, and extraordinary choices made. Join the author of The Alexa Montgomery Saga for the beginning of a tale of star-crossed lovers and magic, of hope and love and loss, of desperate wishes made on stars.



SPONSORED BY World Wildlife Foundation


 
a Rafflecopter giveaway


ABOUT THE AUTHOR


H. D. Gordon is the author of The Alexa Montgomery Saga. Blood Warrior, the first book of the Alexa series was her debut novel and has held a spot in the top 100 fantasy bestsellers for over a month. Half Black Soul is the second book in this series and H. D. plans to complete Alexa's tales by the end of 2012. In June of 2012, Joe, a fantasy novel about a young clairvoyant, was released as well. H. D. is a lifelong reader and writer, a true lover of words. When she is not reading or writing she is raising her two daughters, playing a little guitar, and spending time with her family. She is twenty three years old and lives in the northeastern United States.

Monday, August 26, 2013

Changes (The Dresden Files #12) by Jim Butcher

Changes  (The Dresden Files #12) by Jim Butcher
 
This is an adult urban fantasy (Rated R)
 
 ♥♥♥♥
(Four Susan Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
Long ago, Susan Rodriguez was Harry Dresden's lover-until she was attacked by his enemies, leaving her torn between her own humanity and the bloodlust of the vampiric Red Court. Susan then disappeared to South America, where she could fight both her savage gift and those who cursed her with it.

Now Arianna Ortega, Duchess of the Red Court, has discovered a secret Susan has long kept, and she plans to use it-against Harry. To prevail this time, he may have no choice but to embrace the raging fury of his own untapped dark power. Because Harry's not fighting to save the world...

He's fighting to save his child.
 
 
My Review

When I found out Susan was coming back for this book, I had to pick it up right away. And honestly, I spent most of the book questioning if what Susan wanted from Harry was truth. It made for an interesting read.
This was probably one of the better books in the series. Harry hit some really rough patches and has to make decisions he’s never had to make before. Some I couldn’t imagine making myself.
And honestly if in a battle one individual was missing from the battle therefore had to be somewhere else which made the rest so easy to predict, I would have given this book 5 stars. But when Harry in his inner dialogue makes it so obvious yet acts surprised, I couldn’t give it a perfect score.
Still, the Dresden series average book is better than some authors’ best book.
Audio Review
James Marsters does a fabulous job as usual. He is simply amazing.
My book boyfriend Harry (model used is also cover model)

 
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Crimson Darkness (Crimson #2) by Amos Cassidy ~ REVEAL

 
Book Blurb....

London is in the grip of an unnatural darkness. Rose is in the grasp of an unrelenting power and Raven and Thistle, along with their supernatural allies, are battling to survive and find a way to restore their home city.

For the fey, the song remains the same. They must return the power to Faerie or die. Unfortunately for them, the task has been superseded by an even more important one - help save Earth or perish along with it!

For Rose, the stakes are even higher as she is forced to make a terrible deal that will damn her if she does and damn her if she doesn’t.

Now enemies must work together as allies if they are to save their worlds from an ancient threat…
 
 
 Crimson Darkness (Crimson, #2) Goodreads link.
 
BOOK TRAILER
 
 

ABOUT THE AUTHORS...




Amos Cassidy - a team of two. Amos is a 29 year old Diva and Cassidy a 36 year old mum of three.

Aside from a passion for writing and a love of reading they also share an addiction to coffee, love anything Joss Whedon and are constantly playing tug of war over Jensen Ackles.
 
They have been writing together for four years and are currently working on the third book in their Crimson Series.

Friday, August 23, 2013

Turn Coat (The Dresden Files #11) by Jim Butcher

Turn Coat  (The Dresden Files #11) by Jim Butcher
 
This is an adult urban fantasy novel (Rated R)
 
 ♥♥♥♥
(Four Harry Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
When it comes to the magical ruling body known as the White Council, Harry keeps his nose clean and his head down. For years, the Council has held a death mark over Harry's head. He's still thought of as a black sheep by some;and as a sacrificial lamb by others. But none regard him with more suspicion and disdain than Morgan, a veteran Warden with a grudge against anyone who bends the rules.

Like Harry.

So when Morgan turns up asking for help, Harry isn't exactly eager to leap into action. Morgan has been accused of treason against the White Council;and there's only one final punishment for that crime. he's on the run, he wants his name cleared, and he needs someone with a knack for backing the underdog.

Like Harry.

Now Harry must uncover a traitor within the Council, keep a less than agreeable Morgan under wraps, and avoid coming under scrutiny himself. And a single mistake may cost someone his head.

Like Harry...
 
 
My Review
 
So, I downloaded this one in need of something different to listen to than what I’d been listening to lately. Plus I know Butcher will deliver on an exciting interesting plot that will keep my interest.
I love Harry. But in this installment, I was more than a little peeved with his actions early in the story. The fact that he brings the big bad to a vulnerable group’s doorstep and someone gets killed bothered me. Harry is generally not one to do such a thing. I felt it was out of character given he was not able to overcome the foe. Why go to a group that was definitely out classed for help?
Other than that, I was really in to this story. Of course it ends badly for someone else. And I love that character too. But everyone can’t always survive or come out unscathed.
Still, this Dresden series is hands down better than most Urban Fantasy series I read/listen to.
Audio Review
James Marsters does a fabulous job as usual. He is simply amazing.
My book boyfriend Harry (model used is also cover model)


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*Disclaimer - I am not the owner of this picture. I found it on the web for causal fun use on my blog for which I receive no compensation. If this picture belongs to you (you are the copyright owner) please let me know and I will remove it.

Thursday, August 22, 2013

Adventures in Murder Chasing (Funeral Crashing #3) by Milda Harris

 
Adventures in Murder Chasing (Funeral Crashing #3) by Milda Harris
 
This is a young adult mystery/crime solving novel (Rated PG-13)
 
 ♥♥♥♥1/2
(Four and a Half Crime Solving Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
Kait Lenox is officially Ethan Ripley's girlfriend and she might even be kinda sorta becoming non enemies with her ex-bff Ariel Walker. Everything is going great! That is until Kait stumbles across another suspicious death at her favorite coffee shop, Wired. Not able to help herself, Kait sets out to investigate!

Suddenly Kait's problems go from whether or not she should say the L-word to Ethan to fears that the murder she's investigating might not be murder at all. Should Kait follow her gut or is she just chasing murders?
 
 
My Review
 
Gosh, I love this series. One of the things I like best is how real this series is. Kait is an average girl (in her head) and has some pretty weird quirks. She and Ethan come together in the most realistic way and their relationship continues to blossom at a realistic pace.
In fact, this book, Kait is pretty whiny in her head about her feelings for Ethan and her former BFF. She has some real insecurities. And although it annoyed me at one point, I was reminded that this is how a teen would behave. So I let it go.
The mystery is full of funny spots where Kait just seems to attract trouble. I laughed out loud plenty of times. The only thing that bothered me was when Kait meets the killer. It was almost too convenient to the point of almost being unrealistic. I can’t explain more without giving it away. And really for this point alone it’s not a 5 star read. But still, I enjoyed the unfolding of the tale.
Most of all, I loved the end. I melted at the end. *double sigh*.
I seriously can’t wait to read more of this series. It is so great.
My book boyfriend Ethan.

 

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*Disclaimer - I am not the owner of this picture. I found it on the web for causal fun use on my blog for which I receive no compensation. If this picture belongs to you (you are the copyright owner) please let me know and I will remove it.

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Shadow of the Mark (Carrier #2) by Leigh Fallon

 
Shadow of the Mark  (Carrier #2) by Leigh Fallon
 
This is a young adult paranormal romance novel (Rated PG-13)
 
 ♥♥♥1/2
(Three and a Half Elemental Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
Their love could destroy them all.

Through the ages, Marked Ones have harnessed the powers of the four elements: Water, Fire, Earth, and Air. Much about the elements is shrouded in mystery, but one thing is certain: A relationship between two Marked Ones has the potential to cause widespread devastation.

Megan and Adam—Air and Water—are determined to defy the risks.

But the power that swirls inside Megan is growing in twisted ways. And the closer she is to Adam, the closer Megan comes to unleashing a dark force that could spell destruction for the entire Marked line.
 
 

My Review

I really liked the first book unlike a lot of others. But this book, well, let’s just say it was too easy to predict everything that came next.
It was too easy to see the roles of the people introduced along with some side characters. That bugged me some because the storyline wasn’t that interesting to overcome that particular problem.
Still, it wasn’t so bad I would give up on the series. Even though the last line of the book gives away the outcome and plot direction of the next book. And I don’t think this author will go against not giving us a HEA. So really, I’m only reading on to confirm my suspicions.
I’m seriously hoping for some ingenuity along with superior imagination to give us a home run on the next book.
My book boyfriend is Adam.


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Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Anything He Wants: Castaway #3 (Anything He Wants: Castaway #3) by Sara Fawkes

Anything He Wants: Castaway #3  (Anything He Wants: Castaway #3) by Sara Fawkes
 
This is an adult romance/erotica novel (Rated NC-17)
 
 ♥♥♥♥1/2
(Four and a half mischief Hearts)
 
 
Book Summary
 
Secrets are revealed in the thrilling third part of the Anything He Wants: Castaway series!

Every action has its consequences, and the day of reckoning has come. Jeremiah Hamilton is not a man inclined to forgive, and a broken-hearted Lucy is left shattered and desperate to get back home to her mundane life. There, she can nurse a broken heart and try to go back to normal far away from danger.

But the promise of safety is an illusion. Someone has marked her as much a target as surely as any Hamilton male, and believes her to be their key for revenge against the family. There is nowhere Lucy can hide, but her help comes from a most unlikely source.

With lives on the line, can they outwit a predator who is constantly one step ahead of them?


My Review

These books are like little nibbles of excitement. For the most part I’ve been pleased with each installment which the exception of the last, which wasn’t horrible, just not the best.
This author keeps us on our toes wondering what’s going to happen next, which shoe will fall. And I forgive both Lucy and Jeremiah. They both made mistakes. And he can’t blame her and she can’t blame him.

I didn't predict all the twist which is always nice. However, I did figure out the ending far sooner than Lucy and the crew. It didn't matter. I was so into this story.
As much as I’ve fallen for Lucas, I’m still TEAM Jeremiah. I want a HEA for both of them so bad. Can they share, lol?

I like need book #4 yesterday. Please hurry Sara.
My book boyfriend Jeremiah.

 
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*Disclaimer - I am not the owner of this picture. I found it on the web for causal fun use on my blog for which I receive no compensation. If this picture belongs to you (you are the copyright owner) please let me know and I will remove it.

Sunday, August 18, 2013

Switch (New World) by Janelle Stalder

 
All’s fair in love and war.

Two thirds of the world's population has been wiped out, devastated by the worst war earth has ever seen. Still standing amongst the ruins is a mind reader who finds herself on the wrong side of the war. Everyone does what they must to survive. When the rebels bent on bringing down the New World leader start to rise up, it is her job to make sure they stay down where they belong. That is, until one rebel sneaks past her defences and into her heart. Love will blossom from the ashes, but will it be enough to save them, or will it mean the end of them both?


My Review
All I can say is this author rocks. She is a go to author of mine. One I respect and love every imagined world she creates. She has a way with words and her imagination that leads to entertaining well written reads. When I found out she was writing a New Adult dystopian series, I was all over it.
There are many traditionally published authors who can’t write to save their life. And then there are authors like this one that write circles around them. This story is interesting, innovative, thrilling, and a little sexy. It is worth every penny for the purchase price.
You won’t go wrong with this one. If you like dystopian and the New Adult genre, pick this one up. Don’t hesitate. You’ll kick yourself later wondering why you waited.
The characters are fresh and interesting. I love we have a strong heroine and a determined hero. Even though possibly they aren’t quite as clean as your everyday hero would normally be. There are heroes and saviors, villains and thugs. In this book, there are a lot of blurred lines.
I can’t wait to see what book two brings.
My book boyfriend Pete.



Janelle Stalder was born and raised in Brampton, Ontario. At an early age she developed a love for literature. Her debut novel, Eden, was the first book in a series of four, released in September of 2011. The second book, Eden-West, was released in July of 2012, and the third book, Eden-South was released in March of 2013. The fourth book of the Eden Series, Eden-East, will be release at the end of 2013. She is a strong supporter of other independent authors, and loves to interact with her readers. When she's not writing, Janelle is at home with her husband, two children, Aiden and Elora, and her two furry children, Alice and Lily. She now resides in the small town in Ontario in her old, possibly haunted, century home.
Other Publications:
 
Trapped within the cruel world of hormones and bullies, fifteen-year-old Aiden is convinced life has more to offer him. His instincts are proven correct on the night he is awakened by a voice calling to him from outside his window. As he sleepily peers into his yard, his eyes slowly focus on a woman who says she is there to take him to Eden. Aiden is about to fulfill the life purpose he never knew he had.

It is in Eden, a land on the brink of war, where Aiden will finally learn to trust himself and those around him. Accompanied by Wolf, his sidekick Logan, and the beautiful archer, Elisa, Aiden is soon thrust into a battle to save Eden. Meanwhile Elisa, the only girl in the King's Army, is in the midst of her own struggles. Betrothed to a man she has no intention of marrying, Elisa is caught between the need to prove herself and her desire for true happiness. And now that she has met Aiden, she is more confused than ever.

In this action-packed fantasy tale, romance, adventure, and intrigue surround Aiden as he learns just what he is capable of when he discovers confidence and courage.
 
New beginnings, new conflicts, and new adventures arise in the second installment of the Eden Series, Eden-West.
Months after his initial journey to Eden, Aiden is learning to cope with his own transformation. His social status has changed, his friendship with his best friend Ethan is in jeopardy because of it, and worst of all, he has heard absolutely nothing from his new friends in Eden. What has become of the world he fell in love with? Are his friends safe? Is the war over? With no answers, and no hope for contact, Aiden decides to focus on his life in his world. Just as he makes this decision, he encounters a familiar bright light and thinks he knows exactly what it means. Except the light isn't at all what he expects and neither is the person behind it. When Aiden returns to Eden, it is to a whole new part of that special world, and a whole new set of adventures.
Weeks after Aiden was returned to his own world, Elisa is sent to Nysa, the revered Southern city, to retrieve the one thing she'd rather avoid - Wolf. Captain Turk instructed her to get in and get out - but that is easier said than done. When she finds her missing friend, she also stumbles upon a great deal of trouble. This trouble goes by one name - Markus, the leader of the Sun People.
Follow all your favourite characters as they ready themselves for battle and fight for a world threatened to be destroyed.
 
The betrayal that tore a family apart. Two brothers bent on destroying the other. A whole world on the brink of war.

Aiden has been through his second battle in the magical world of Eden. The victory is short lived and Aiden is sent racing toward his friends in the Capital. After being back in Eden with the Riders, he is eager to reunite with Wolf, Elisa and Logan, although he doesn’t realize just what he’s returning to. Surprises await him when he arrives in the Capital; his close-knit group of friends is slowly falling apart. On top of it all, another battle is just around the corner, one that will change everything.

Rain has made her choice, and now she is in some unknown fortress with the feared sorcerer, Aziz. She wants nothing more but to please him, but being his Queen isn’t as easy as she thought. While trying to learn sorcery, and dealing with Aziz’s advances, Rain is finding her new life a bit overwhelming. Just when she thought it couldn’t get worse, she discovers a secret of Aziz’s, and it is nothing she could have expected.

Rose has supported Callum throughout their journey, but now that the final battle is just around the corner she is faced with a hard reality. Everything she has gained with him could be taken away. Is she willing to live the rest of her life without him? Can she just stand by while he destroys everything, including himself? Will he ever be able to find peace? Will she?

In the third installment of the Eden Series fates will be decided, and the battle between brothers that has been a decade in the making will finally come to an end. Only one of them can be High King.

The battle starts now.

Upcoming Projects:
Eden-East (Book Four, Eden Series) – October 2013
Brush Strokes (Contemporary Romance) – Early 2014
Masked (Book Two, New World Series) – 2014
Elysium (YA Fantasy Spin-off of the Eden Series) – 2014
Author Contact Information:
Facebook: Janelle Stalder
Twitter: @jmstalder
Email: jmstalder@gmail.com
 

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*Disclaimer - I am not the owner of this picture. I found it on the web for causal fun use on my blog for which I receive no compensation. If this picture belongs to you (you are the copyright owner) please let me know and I will remove it.