Brave by Jennifer L. Armentrout COVER REVEAL & GIVEAWAY

Series: The Wicked Trilogy, Book # 3

RELEASE DATE: December 11th, 2017

Available Formats: Paperback (U.S./Canada) and E-book

Blurb...

Ivy Morgan hasn't been feeling like herself lately. Not like anyone can blame her. After all, being held captive by a psychotic fae prince hell-bent on permanently opening the gates to the Otherworld is bound to leave some mental scars.

It’s more than that, though. Something dark and insidious is spreading throughout Ivy, more powerful than she could ever imagine... and it’s coming between her and the man she’s fallen deeply in love with, elite Order member Ren Owens.

Ren would do anything to keep Ivy safe. Anything. But when he makes a life altering choice for her, the fallout of his act has far reaching consequences that threaten to tear their lives apart.

If Ivy is going to have any hope of surviving this, she must put aside the hurt and betrayal she feels, and work with not only those she loves, but with an enemy she would rather kill than ever trust. War is coming, and it soon becomes clear that what Ivy and Ren thought they knew about the Order, themselves, and even their enemies, has been nothing but a cluster of dangerous, deadly lies. Ivy knows she must be more than just brave to save those she loves--and, ultimately, to save herself.

Because behind ever evil fae Prince, there’s a Queen…

PRE-ORDER LINK:

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2he5YvS

*Amazon is the only retailer with a pre-order link at this time.

VIRTUAL SIGNING INFORMATION:

To celebrate the upcoming release of BRAVE (book 3 in the Wicked Saga), Jennifer is offering an exclusive virtual signing! Through this virtual signing, you will be able to order SIGNED & PERSONALIZED copies of WICKED, TORN, and BRAVE!

And best of all -- This is OPEN INTERNATIONALLY!

DIRECT LINK: http://www.apollyconevent.com/jla-brave-virtualsigning/

JENNIFER L. ARMENTROUT AUTHOR INFO

BIO:

# 1 NEW YORK TIMES Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. She spends her time reading, working out, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, and hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Website: https://jenniferlarmentrout.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferLArmentrout
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JLArmentrout
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_l_armentrout/

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Shadow (The Florentine #2) by Sylvain Reynard

The Shadow (The Florentine #2) by Sylvain Reynard

This is an adult paranormal romance novel (Rated NC-17)

♥♥♥♥

(Four Vampire Hearts)

Book Summary

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Gabriel trilogy comes the hotly anticipated follow-up to The Raven, a sensual novel set in Florence featuring the dangerously intoxicating coupling of Raven and William…
Raven Wood’s vampyre prince has returned, pledging his love and promising justice for every wrong done to her. In the wake of their reunion, Raven is faced with a terrible decision—allow the Prince to wreak vengeance against the demons of her past, or persuade him to stay his hand. But there is far more at stake than Raven’s heart...

A shadow has fallen over the city of Florence. Ispettor Batelli will not rest until he uncovers Raven’s connection to the theft of the priceless art from the Uffizi Gallery. And while the Prince hunts a traitor who sabotages him at every turn, he finds himself the target of the vampyres’ mortal enemy.

As he wages a war on two fronts, he will need to keep his love for Raven secret, or risk exposing his greatest weakness...

BUY LINK

My Review

One thing I love about this author is that I don’t walk away from the story feeling like I’ve lost several brain cells, which is the case with some romance novels. The story is rich in history which I love and the characters are authentic and well developed.

My only regret is that I’m not a re-reader. One I don’t have time and too I find re-reading boring. So it took me some time to remember the first installment which I read (listened to) about a year ago. Thus, I felt lost for a short time.

I’m not sure that or if it was the writing, but the story was slow for a bit. There wasn’t much action and a lot more talk and introspection. That isn’t all bad. But I wanted to be sucked into the story from the first page and I wasn’t.

However, once things got going, they got going. And let me tell you, I didn’t want it to end. I also have to say I was surprised how things played out for the most part. The last, I suspected after the reveal of the rest. I can’t wait to gobble up the next installment. And if it’s the last, I will be sad.

Audio Review

John Michael Morgan handled the narration beautifully with all the different accents and captured the spirit of the characters with ease.

My book boyfriend William

View all my reviews

*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.

Blood Kiss (Black Dagger Legacy #1) by J.R. Ward

Blood Kiss (Black Dagger Legacy #1) by J.R. Ward

This is an new adult paranormal romance novel (Rated NC-17)

♥♥♥♥1/2

(Four and a half Blood Hearts)

Book Summary

The legacy of the Black Dagger Brotherhood continues in a spin-off series from the #1 New York Times bestselling author…
Paradise, blooded daughter of the king’s First Advisor, is ready to break free from the restrictive life of an aristocratic female. Her strategy? Join the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s training center program and learn to fight for herself, think for herself…be herself. It’s a good plan, until everything goes wrong. The schooling is unfathomably difficult, the other recruits feel more like enemies than allies, and it’s very clear that the Brother in charge, Butch O’Neal, a.k.a. the Dhestroyer, is having serious problems in his own life.

And that’s before she falls in love with a fellow classmate. Craeg, a common civilian, is nothing her father would ever want for her, but everything she could ask for in a male. As an act of violence threatens to tear apart the entire program, and the erotic pull between them grows irresistible, Paradise is tested in ways she never anticipated—and left wondering whether she’s strong enough to claim her own power…on the field, and off.

BUY LINK

My Review

So this book starts off a little slow, which is reasonable in a new series. There is world building that needs to be done. But oh, wait. This is the same BDB world. So for me, it was slow. I’ll also admit that I didn’t like the flow between changing of POV in this book.

I think personally I missed the lessors or some side story that keeps the plot moving. That’s not exactly what we got here and it took me a while to get on board.

However, once I did, I loved it. I love all the characters especially V who is forever mine (step off). There were times where I thought his presence would have been interesting (say a specific club Butch goes to). But in the end, the story flowed well after a slow start.

I think I love Craig like a lot. He is that combination of male that turns all my buttons to red alert. Yum.

I have to hand it to this author. She made the predictable unpredictable. I was so wrapped up in the story I didn’t see the who done it. After the reveal, I was like that was so obvious. But JRW did a wonderful job of not making me see it. Which is a feat.

And oh Lassiter. I love him too. (Not as much as V). You  will have some laugh out loud moments and maybe some sad ones. But definitely super hot ones.

I should mention I'm not sure where the title fits into this story. I almost feel like this book and Kresley Cole's new one Sweet Ruin mixed up their titles. I think if they switched, the titles would make more sense for each of their books.

Overall, I loved it. If you are a fan of the BDB series, you should like this one. I wouldn’t suggest anyone to start here though. There is too much you would miss out in backstory. However, I don’t think you would be lost. I just think you would get more out of if you started with BDB first.

Audio Review

Jim Frangione is a wonderful narrator. However, he mysteriously changed the name Zex (John Matthew’s shellian) to pronouncing it as Hex. I’d forgotten he did that in the last book and found myself wonder who Hex’s was until John Matthew’s name was mentioned. Maybe she was always Hex in the written book. But as someone who has only listened, this was hard change. Plus, this book, Jim seemed not to differentiate the characters as much as he usually does with the inflections in his voice. There were a few parts, I couldn’t tell you who was speaking as there weren’t dialogue tags and no context clues to go off of. Oh well. Other than that, I still enjoyed the narration.

My book boyfriend Craig. 

View all my reviews

*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.

Spiral of Need (The Mercury Pack #1) by Suzanne Wright

Spiral of Need (The Mercury Pack #1) by Suzanne Wright

This is a paranormal romance (Rated NC-17)

♥♥♥♥1/2

(Four and a half Hot Hearts)

Book Summary

Ally Marshall isn’t just a wolf shifter — she’s a Seer.

But a girl doesn’t exactly need special powers to know that Derren Hudson despises her entire kind. Disdain practically rolls off the Beta of the Mercury Pack . . . disdain mixed with a healthy dose of desire. And no matter how much the ruggedly handsome male appeals to her, this is one call of the wild she’s determined to ignore.

After one betrayal too many, Derren doesn’t have much use for Seers — except for Ally.

Forced into acting as her protector, he finds himself intensely and passionately drawn to the woman who incites his primal instinct to claim.

And when enemies target the pack, Ally’s gift may be just what the Mercury Pack needs.

Can he put his distrust aside, or will he force himself to turn his back on the one woman who makes his inner beast howl?

BUY LINK

My Review

The story has some predictability because we know there is going to be a HEA. But in this case, I enjoyed the ride.

There were twist in the story I didn’t see coming and others I did. All I know, is I don’t think I’ve enjoyed one of the books in the “series” since Trey as much until this one.

Ally’s family almost ran away with the story and I can’t wait to read more about them.

It was hot, smoking hot. And I can’t wait for her to write more books no matter what series it is.

Audio Review ->  Jill Redfield does a decent job with narration.

My Book Boyfriend is Derren.

View all my reviews

*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.

Boundary Lines (Boundary Magic #2) by Melissa F. Olson

Boundary Lines (Boundary Magic #2) 

This is an urban fantasy novel (Rated NC-17)

♥♥♥♥

(Four Boundary Hearts)

Book Summary

Fitting into the Old World isn’t going very well for Boulder boundary witch Allison “Lex” Luther: she may have earned a place in a vampire’s service, but now it seems as if every supernatural creature in town has found a reason to hate her. And when Lex and her partner are assigned to investigate the suspicious disappearance of two vampires during the night of the full moon, they find themselves with more questions than answers.

Was it murder…or mutiny?

The crusade for answers will lead Lex all over the Colorado Old World, from a prison cell for a broken werewolf to a haunted Denver brothel. And when Lex determines the responsible party, the hunt is just beginning: something has been awakened in Boulder, something as old and powerful as it is terrifying. Only the woman with death in her blood can stop what’s coming.

BUY LINK

My Review

I was disappointed with the first installment of this series, but this installment was much better. There was still some predictability. In fact, I knew who “done” it right away. However, the story was good enough I soldiered on.

I have to say, even though my loyalty is to Quinn and Lex, a small part of me crushes on Simon.

This story has a good message about overcoming old prejudices. It’s a solid story that answers some questions and leaving us with new ones. Which is a mark of any good series.

I have to say, with the story giving us information that takes place in the author’s other series, Scarlett Barnard, I miss that series and wonder if we will get more.

Overall, solid installment and I can’t wait for more.

Audio Review à Kate Rudd does a good job with narration.

My book boyfriend Quinn

View all my reviews

*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.

White Trash Zombie Gone Wild (White Trash Zombie #5) by Diana Rowland

White Trash Zombie Gone Wild (White Trash Zombie #5) by Diana Rowland

This is an adult urban fantasy novel (Rated R)

♥♥♥1/2

(Three and a half Crazy Hearts)

Book Summary

Angel crawford has buried her loser past and is cruising along in undead high gear--that is, until a murder-by-decapitation sends her on a hazardous detour. As Angel hunts for the killer, she uncovers a scheme that would expose zombies to the public and destroy the life she's built, and she's determined not to rest until she finds out who's behind it.

Soon she's neck-deep in lies, redneck intrigue, zombie hunters, and rot-sniffing cadaver dogs. It's up to her to unravel the truth and snuff out the conspiracy before the existence of zombies makes headline news and she's outed as a monster.

But Angel hasn't quite escaped the pill-popping ghosts of her past--not with an illicit zombie pharmaceutical at her fingertips. Good thing she's absolutely sure she can handle the drug's unpredictable side effects and still take down the bad guys...or maybe she's only one bad choice away from being dead meat--for real this time.

Angel knows a thing or two about kicking ass, but now the ass she needs to kick might be her own.

BUY LINK

My Review

I have a love/hate relationship with this series. I tend to fall for the first love interest that’s presented in a story and all my loyalty belongs to that character no matter what.

Beware Spoilers Ahead…

So I love Marcus. And Marcus has been made into a bad guy even though he’s the one who saved Angel’s life. And she’s killed any chance for a relationship there. And that hurts.

Then came Angel’s zombie baby and I disliked him and how the last book ended. But what the hell. It was like that ended of the book didn’t happen??? After reading this one.

So now in this book, we finally get answers surrounding Nick and several other answers. Thank the heavens for that. But then this barely there Nick romance thing disturbs me. I’m not feeling it.

In fact, I’m rooting for Randy now who came off as smelling like roses. And why? Why did the author do that when there is no chance she’s going there?

Anyway, I liked the message this story had to tell about abuse of drugs and such. However, the story lacked something…

Overall, it was an okay read.

Audio Review

Allison McLemore is the saving grace for the series. If not for her, I might have given up this series. She does such wonderful job at narration.

My book boyfriend is Randy.

View all my reviews

*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.

Shadows Strike (Immortal Guardians #6) by Dianne Duvall

Shadows Strike (Immortal Guardians #6) by Dianne Duvall

This is a paranormal romance novel (Rated NC-17)

♥♥♥♥

(Four Ethan Hearts)

Book Summary

The Immortal Guardians protect the innocent in secret. Sometimes the secret gets out...

U.S. law enforcement agent Heather Lane can read minds. But not the future. The dream of battle and blood that recurs every night must be a fluke, some obscure terror from her own mind. What its significance might be, she can’t guess: an attack from seven psychotic vampires at once, only separated from nightmare by an eighth very different immortal. A handsome, brave man fighting at her side, a man she misses when she wakes.

Then the dream comes true. Heather is flung into a war between predators and protectors of humanity, the man from her dreams beside her again. Except now that she’s awake, she isn’t sure she can trust Ethan, or the shadow organization he represents. The U.S. military doesn’t trust either of them. But against an onslaught of evil like the one that’s coming, it will take everything they have just to survive...

BUY LINK

My Review

So, the good and the not so good.

The story starts off great. I found it to be as intriguing as all the other books in the series. But then I think the story strayed away from the couple and onto the bigger picture. And having the bigger picture is awesome, one of the things I like most about this series.

However, I think that we didn’t get as much from the couple because as a couple they were all that interesting. There wasn’t the push and pull and that’s not always necessary. But it was like they fit right away and what was there to talk about after. And Ethan was a favorite of mine. So I hoped for more maybe.

That’s the main reason why I didn’t give it perfect marks, but the story flowed smoothly. And we got to see as usual some of the other couples come into action. Which is great, because I’ve loved each of them.

I will still eat this series up like a kid with Halloween candy. It’s one of my favorites and very well written. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

Audio Review

Kristen Potter does an excellent job with narration. I can’t imagine anyone else reading the series.

My book boyfriend Ethan.

View all my reviews

*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.

The Single Undead Moms Club (Half-Moon Hollow #4) by Molly Harper

The Single Undead Moms Club (Half-Moon Hollow #4) by Molly Harper

This is an adult paranormal romance novel (Rated NC-17)

♥♥♥♥1/2

(Four and a Half Single Mom Hearts)

Book Summary

In the next book in Molly Harper’s Half Moon Hollow paranormal romance series, Libby (a widow-turned-vampire) struggles with her transition, and finds out it sucks to be the only vampire member of the PTA…

Widow Libby Stratton arranged to be turned into a vampire after she was diagnosed with late-stage cancer. It wasn’t the best idea she’s ever had, but she was desperate—she’s not about to leave her seven-year-old son to be raised by her rigid, overbearing in-laws.

On top of post-turning transition issues, like being ignored at PTA meetings and other mothers rejecting her son’s invitations for sleepovers, Libby must deal with her father-in-law’s attempts to declare her an unfit mother, her growing feelings for Wade—a tattooed redneck single dad she met while hiding in a closet at Back to School Night—and the return of her sire, who hasn’t stopped thinking about brave, snarky Libby since he turned her.

With the help of her new vampire circle, Libby negotiates this unfamiliar quagmire of legal troubles, parental duties, relationships, and, as always in Harper’s distinct, comedic novels, “characters you can’t help but fall in love with” (RT Book Reviews). 

BUY LINK

My Review

I have to say I’m never completely disappointed with a Molly Harper book. I know what I’m getting too. Light reads, with feisty heroines and guys that try to keep up. Although the formula is somewhat the same, no two books are ever alike.

However, in this one, the author surprises us by creating a love triangle. I can’t quite recall her ever doing that before. And both guys are swoon worthy, so please Ms. Harper, give that other guy a HEA.

This book had some of the magic the first book in the Jane Jameson series had as the heroine stumbled around in her new “undead” life. I really liked this book a lot and it was refreshing to read after so many serious books.

I must also say, I miss the wolf pack in Alaska. Will we ever get more of those books???

Audio Review

Amanda Ronconi is brilliant as always, spot on at bring the humor on the page to life.

Overall, I recommend this author and her series. Start off with Jane Jameson series with book number one. I dare you not to laugh your ass off.

My book boyfriend Wade.

View all my reviews

*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.

Boundary Crossed (Boundary Magic #1) by Melissa F. Olson

Boundary Crossed (Boundary Magic #1) by Melissa F. Olson

This is an adult urban fantasy novel (Rated PG-13)

♥♥♥1/2

(Three and half Witchy Hearts)

Book Summary

After her twin sister’s brutal murder, former US Army Sergeant Allison “Lex” Luther vowed to protect her niece, Charlie. So when two vampires try to kidnap the baby, it quickly turns into a fight to the death—Lex’s death, that is.

She wakes up to two shocking discoveries: she has miraculously survived the fight, and baby Charlie is a “null,” gifted with the ability to weaken supernatural forces...and a target for creatures who want to control that power. Determined to guarantee her niece’s safety, Lex makes a deal with the local vampires. She sets out with the mysterious—and undead—“fixer” Quinn to track down whoever’s responsible for the kidnapping, sharpening her newfound magic skills along the way. But the closer she gets to the truth, the more dangerous her powers become.

Boundary Crossed is a dark, thrilling journey into a world where the line between living and dead isn’t nearly as solid as it appears...

My Review

First let me say that the initial setup of the story/series is pretty strong. The backstory is interesting enough to draw you in. The author doesn’t dump everything out at you all at once. She gives you information along the way in such a fashion to keep you reading. Great Job there.

The romance is an undercurrent of the story to the point of almost non-existent. But that is to be expected in an urban fantasy novel. However, by the end, you can’t help but wonder where the two will go. There is almost a feeling of a love triangle, but trust me, it’s not there and I’m so glad for it.

MILD SPOILERS

Lex’s brother in law John is a total douchebag in my opinion. He’s interested in Lex and they have a minor fling (like sex and stuff) like right after or during her last year of high school. He admits he has feelings for her and she admits hers. However, she’s determined to enlist and does. While she’s away, he starts dating her twin sister. And I don’t care that they are fraternal twins. It’s her sister and worse her twin. John and her sister end up getting married and having a kid. If that’s not bad enough, her twin dies in the other series (Dead Spots). It’s almost a year after her death and John tells Lex she needs to move on and not think so much about her dead twin. AND that he’s moved on, he’s seeing someone. Total douche. I don’t like him at all, not that he’s not entitled to move on, but it’s the way it comes across in the story that bothers me.

There was one part where Lex is told about a party for her father. Immediately, I knew who Lex would end up going with even initially he’s going alone (yeah, right). And things don’t change until later in the story. I also knew what would happen to Charlie. And all the attempts to get Charlie, I can’t believe they didn’t anticipate and have protection for her. I thought that whole part was an epic fail

END OF SPOILER

I did figure out the who done it pretty early. I can’t believe that Lex didn’t figure it out.
The way the book ends, you can see that things have the potential of being an outstanding read. I sure hope so. Only, I want more of the Dead Spots series (whatever that series is called) and it looks like this author has moved on to this series. I’m sort of sad.

Audio Review

Kate Rudd does a good job. Her separation of voices was pretty easy to follow.

My book boyfriend Quinn.

View all my reviews

*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.

Magic Shifts (Kate Daniels #8) by Ilona Andrews

Magic Shifts (Kate Daniels #8) by Ilona Andrews

This is an adult urban fantasy novel (Rated NC-17)

♥♥♥♥♥

(Five Outstanding Hearts)

Book Summary

In the latest Kate Daniels novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Ilona Andrews, magic is coming and going in waves in post-Shift Atlanta—and each crest leaves danger in its wake…

After breaking from life with the Pack, mercenary Kate Daniels and her mate—former Beast Lord Curran Lennart—are adjusting to a very different pace. While they’re thrilled to escape all the infighting, Curran misses the constant challenges of leading the shapeshifters.

So when the Pack offers him its stake in the Mercenary Guild, Curran seizes the opportunity—too bad the Guild wants nothing to do with him and Kate. Luckily, as a veteran merc, Kate can take over any of the Guild’s unfinished jobs in order to bring in money and build their reputation. But what Kate and Curran don’t realize is that the odd jobs they’ve been working are all connected.

An ancient enemy has arisen, and Kate and Curran are the only ones who can stop it—before it takes their city apart piece by piece…

My Review

No, this installment was not about romance. But then again, romance was in the air. And our author duo treated up to a love scene for all love scenes in this series. And we don’t get them often. I was quite shocked and satisfied at the same time. I hope they aren’t setting us up for this being a one-time deal.

This book answers some questions and foreshadows the future. It is sweet and heart-wrenching what Kate experiences with this book, so be prepared. This isn’t an easy journey for her or the reader.

And Curran. I love that man even more. I’m still sad what he gave up but for the fact that he makes Kate see he’s made peace with it and she’s worth it, makes me swoon. And the damn ending… it’s not a cliffy that I’m talking about. It’s the sweetness that is Curran that made me wish there was more to the story.

Oh, one more thing. This book made me cry. This author duo pulled out all the stops and made me feel so much, I was balling at one time in the story. And hell, how often does that happen in an urban fantasy book. Two thumbs up for them (author duo).

Audio Review

Renee Raudman did an excellent job with narration.

My book boyfriend is Curran. (He is who I would cast)

View all my reviews

*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.

Armageddon (The Fallen #5) by Thomas E. Sniegoski

Armageddon (The Fallen #5) by Thomas E. Sniegoski

This is a young adult paranormal fantasy novel (Rated PG-13)

♥♥♥

(Three Rising Hearts)

Book Summary

Only Aaron and his fellow Nephilim can protect the world from Satan’s wrath in this riveting finale to the New York Times bestselling The Fallen series.

Satan is determined to create his own Hell on Earth and has unleashed unfathomable chaos into the world. Cut off from Heaven, humanity’s only hope for salvation rests with eighteen-year-old Aaron and the other Nephilim who fight by his side. These angelic warriors will protect civilization and restore God’s favor no matter the cost. But there can be only one champion—and defeat is eternal.

The battle lines have been drawn. Armageddon is here.

My Book Boyfriend

I was left underwhelmed with this one. I had so many high hopes after the first book. But it felt like the author kept trying to steer Vilma down another path. In fact, we learn that the path had been sanctioned by someone. It seemed to distract me from the rest of what was going on because I was going to be pissed if it happened.

Then the ending battle was pretty good. It wasn’t easy and it wasn’t over right away. I liked how sacrifices were made and certain things were overcome. However, I agree with one reviewer how said Satan had it a little too easy early on. I though the Nephilim would play a large role than they did. I will say poor Cameron came off as a total weakling in this one.

And lastly, the ending felt slightly unfinished. Especially with the Vilma thing. What happened to the other person in that scenario? They were there (I’m purposefully not using singular pronouns for spoiler sake.)

Also, what about the humans??? How do they feel after all of this? What is the world really like? We only get a glimpse of the fighters but not the people.

Anyway, it wasn’t a bad ending, just slightly disappointed.

My book boyfriend Aaron.

View all my reviews

*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.

A Sorceress of His Own (The Gifted Ones #1) by Dianne Duvall

A Sorceress of His Own (The Gifted Ones #1) by Dianne Duvall

This is an adult steampunk novel (historical with a paranormal twist) (Rated NC-17)

♥♥♥♥

(Four Gifted Hearts)

Book Summary
From the New York Times bestselling author of the acclaimed Immortal Guardians series comes an enchanting new series full of romance, danger, and loyalty: The Gifted OnesSince the day Lord Dillon earned his spurs, rumors of his savagery on the battlefield have preceded him into every room, stilling tongues and sparking fear. Weary of battle, he wishes only to find a woman he can wed who will approach him not with fear, but with the tenderness that has been absent from his life for so long. Yet only the wisewoman seems invariably at ease in his presence. Perhaps because she garners the same fear in others that he does himself.

For seven years, Alyssa has been by Lord Dillon's side, counseling him from the shadows, healing him with her hands, and staving off the worst of his loneliness while his fearsome reputation keeps others at bay. Blessed--or cursed--with gifts that label her a sorceress, she is forced to conceal her youth and the love she harbors for him beneath umbral robes that lead Dillon and his people to believe she is the same aged wisewoman who served his father.

All is revealed, however, and passions flare when an enemy threatens Dillon's life and Alyssa sacrifices everything to save him. When Dillon discovers that the wisewoman is far from elderly, he is instantly entranced. And, as he and Alyssa work together to defeat an enemy bent on destroying them both, Dillon will risk anything--even the wrath of his king--to be with her.


My Review
I must say I’m not sure what I expected with this book other than it was written by one of my favorite authors. I really like historical fiction (which this was) and steampunk (which this kind of was). However with the link to her other series, I was expecting more paranormal aspects than I got.

When I think gifted one, I think of this author’s version of vampires which wasn’t the case at all in this book. Other than a short visit by two of her other series characters, I wouldn’t have linked this book at all to that series. Maybe as we go further the mythology will link up, but so far, we didn’t get modified vamps. We have “witch or mythical type powers” (psychic, healing, telekinesis, etc with no blood intake).

Then the story was super slow to develop. It’s always hard in a new world to set the stage. But I felt the beginning lacked a bang for me to grasp onto. If not for loyalty to the author, I might have given up.

However, all in all, it was a good story once it got going. Lord Dillion is so dreamy and alpha. Just the right mix. I can’t wait to read more and me thinks Dillion’s brother and Alyssa’s cousin, just saying.

Audio Review

Kristen Potter does a great job with narration.

Overall, well worth the read or listen.

My book boyfriend is Dillion.

View all my reviews

*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.

Dead Ice (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter #24) by Laurell K. Hamilton

Dead Ice (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter #24) by Laurell K. Hamilton

This is an adult paranormal romance novel (Rated NC-17)

 ♥♥♥♥
(Four Sexy Hearts)

Book Summary

Anita Blake has the highest kill count of any vampire executioner in the country. She’s a U.S. Marshal who can raise zombies with the best of them. But ever since she and master vampire Jean-Claude went public with their engagement, all she is to anyone and everyone is Jean-Claude’s fiancée.

It’s wreaking havoc with her reputation as a hard ass—to some extent. Luckily, in professional circles, she’s still the go-to expert for zombie issues. And right now, the FBI is having one hell of a zombie issue.

Someone is producing zombie porn. Anita has seen her share of freaky undead fetishes, so this shouldn’t bother her. But the women being victimized aren’t just mindless, rotting corpses. Their souls are trapped behind their eyes, signaling voodoo of the blackest kind.

It’s the sort of case that can leave a mark on a person. And Anita’s own soul may not survive unscathed . . .



My Review

I didn’t read Jason because of the many reviews. I don’t normally go decide based on reviews. But in this case due to the price for what I was getting, I needed to know. And I decided after, I didn’t want to only read about an orgy while talking relationship advice. I’d hoped we would get more of Jason’s story. But for the price of the book and audible, I’ll take the advice of the reviews and stay away. If it ever goes on audible or book sale, I might pick it up.

So, I remember all the things I didn’t like about this series while reading. The first thing is the repeating of the same information. While the first time to give past information as a reminder to the reader is okay. The seventh and eighth reminder in the same book gets annoying. Also, the four chapter discussion about a relationship (talking about beating a dead horse) is also annoying.

I have to say the downfall in this story is not an overabundance of sex. (There are only 2 sex scenes in the entire book, IKR). It is the talk me to death about relationships. There is an opportunity to really go with the mystery/crime solving portion of the book. But it just never takes hold of the story and gets lost in the relationship minutia.

And I’m sorry. I’m a little selfish. And I don’t often say this, but I didn’t want the reality that the many guys might want to add another girl to the mix. I get it. It’s only fair. But one of the few times you’ll hear me say this, I’m like, this is fiction. I want all the guys to myself (and Anita, lol). No more girls allowed.

Still, I heart so many of the characters, I found myself still enjoying it just enough that I could give it four stars and feel good about my rating.

Audio Review

Kimberly Alexis does a stupendous job with this series. I can’t imagine listening to anyone else do it. And I have and thank god she’s back.

My book boyfriend Nicky.

View all my reviews

*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.

Eighth Grave After Dark (Charley Davidson #8) by Darynda Jones

Eighth Grave After Dark (Charley Davidson #8) by Darynda Jones

 

This is an adult paranormal romance novel (Rated NC-17)

 

♥♥♥♥♥
Five Fantastic Hearts 

 

 

Book Summary

 

With twelve hellhounds after her, pregnant Charley Davidson takes refuge at the only place she thinks they can’t get to her: the grounds of an abandoned convent. But after months of being cooped up there, Charley is ready to pop. Both metaphorically and literally since she is now roughly the size of a beached whale. Fortunately, a new case has captured her attention, one that involves a murder on the very grounds the team has taken shelter upon. A decades-old murder of the newly-vowed nun she keeps seeing in the shadows is almost enough to pull her out of her doldrums.

Charley’s been forbidden to step foot off the sacred grounds. While the angry hellhounds can’t traverse the consecrated soil, they can lurk just beyond its borders. They have the entire team on edge, especially Reyes. And if Charley didn’t know better, she would swear Reyes is getting sick. He grows hotter with every moment that passes, his heat scorching across her skin every time he’s near, but naturally he swears he’s fine.

While the team searches for clues on the Twelve, Charley just wants answers and is powerless to get them. But the mass of friends they’ve accrued helps. They convince her even more that everyone in her recent life has somehow been drawn to her, as though they were a part of a bigger picture all along. But the good feelings don’t last for long because Charley is about to get the surprise of her crazy, mixed-up, supernatural life….  

 

 

My Review

 

Every year, I look forward to the next installment of this series. I loved it form the start and I still love it. And unfortunately, a lot of authors jumped out of paranormal and went into contemporary leaving all the PRN fans lacking.

This installment was fantastic. I laughed out loud like old times. I couldn’t find fault with anything with the story. I wish I could read it again for the first time because I would.

What’s even better? Besides the hot and sexy smexy time? We got a ton of answers that we’ve waited for and guess what, this series will continue from books nine through eleven.

And we are shorted answers because the series continues on. The author pulled a rabbit out of the hat and we are left with serious intrigue. I’m already guess what is going to happen, angst and the rekindling of well, no spoilers.

There are a few twists. Some I predicted and one I did not. The room fell flat for me, but everything else made up for that.

If you haven’t read this series, you are missing out.

And thanks to a very good friend who went to RT (in Dallas) and met Darynda and got an hardback ARC of the book signed for me. She is freaking awesome even though I didn’t get the book in time to read, lol. I’ll see her this weekend. So thanks AMY!!!

Audio Review

Lorelei King is one of my favorite narrators and she brings this story to life.

My book boyfriend Reyes.

  

View all my reviews

*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.

Angelfall, World After & End of Days (Penryn & the End of Days #1) series by Susan Ee

Angelfall, World After & End of Days  (Penryn & the End of Days #1) series by Susan Ee

 

This is a young adult paranormal dystopian novel (Rated PG-13)

 

Angel Fall ♥♥♥♥1/2

(Four and a Half)

 

World After ♥♥♥♥1/2

(Four and a Half)

 

End of Days ♥♥♥

 (Three Disappointing Hearts)

 

 

Book One Summary

 

It's been six weeks since the angels of the apocalypse destroyed the world as we know it. Only pockets of humanity remain.

Savage street gangs rule the day while fear and superstition rule the night.

When angels fly away with a helpless girl, her seventeen-year-old sister Penryn will do anything to get her back...

 

 

My Review

 

I read the first two books back in March and I’ve read so many books since then. However, I remember gobbling them up. So I would rate them based on memory at about four and a half stars each. The story was interesting and engaging and wasn’t the typical YA book. It’s a mix of dystopian and paranormal with a dash of romance.

Imagine my excitement when I found out that book three would be released in May only a few short months later.

So here we are with book three and what a letdown. Because I have to give spoilers to explain my rating, I’m going to give a quick non-spoiler wrap up. Book three was not epic and considering the first two books were in the scheme of things, I was totally disappointed. Firstly, I felt absolutely no emotion while reading this book. Things happened and I cared not. I didn’t tear up, I didn’t laugh, I was an emotionless pit while reading. I thought the author used “erotica” type word and descriptions that weren’t necessary to the story (one word at least & and one small scene). I thought that the fighting scenes were quickly and easily resolved in comparison to the struggles of book one and two. And Penryn has been a fighter since book one, so you can’t say she’s a better fighter. Penryn also had serious doubts about Raffe throughout the book. I’ll talk about this below. I also thought that we didn’t get all the answers that we could have given the author made certain things questions in our heads. Lastly, I hated how things ended and thought there was an alternative to what happened. And even if the author wanted to go the route she did, she left a gaping plot hole by not addressing the alternative.

Would I recommend? Yeah, because it was still an interesting ride.

Now Why I give End of Days by Susan Ee Three Hearts only.

SPOILERS

About the fighting, everything was resolved quickly and easily. When they were in the hellhound realm, it was more about her rubbing up against Raffe (which would have been hot if this were an adult book), than about the quickly resolved problem of getting in, getting the warriors and getting out.

I thought the author needlessly used the word nipple when this book hasn’t been about sexual angst until now. It wasn’t necessary to the story. She could have worded things differently and still made her point.

My biggest complaint is the end. The demon guy said he wanted Arch Angel wings. His words in this book. He didn’t say Raffe’s wings. Uriel was down and out on the bridge. He was an Arch Angel. Why not give the guy Uriel’s wings? He was right there for the taking. And frankly with all lack of faith (pun intended) Penryn had for Raffe throughout all the books but this one in particular, when he’d never gave her a reason to doubt him, personally I didn’t think she deserved him or for him to lose his wings over her. And I might have let it go, if he chose that path to say to walk with her as a man. But no, in the epilogue he put the bat wings back on. For what? He claimed that she always looked at him the same with wings, without them, with demon wings. Yet, she doubted him at every turn. She expected his worst when he always gave her his best. And for that reason, I hated the ending. He should have had his wings.

And lastly, Penryn’s seemingly good father left the family. I never understood even though Penryn gave us her take on it. So I kept thinking that her Dad didn’t actually abandon him like she thought. It was even brought up again in this book. So I expected to find out the truth for sure regardless of the reasons, and we got nothing.

END OF SPOILERS

Overall, it was a good read, I just wish the last book didn’t feel like the author was forced to write it and she lacked passion or had word count restraints that didn’t allow her to give us the book we deserved.

Audio Review

Caitlin Davies is a pretty good job with narration. She didn’t use a range of pitch and tone to vary her characters. So a lot of side characters ended up sounding much like the main characters. However, I didn’t have a terrible time keeping up.

My Book Boyfriend Raffe.

 

View all my reviews

*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.