Paper Valentine

  I had been meaning to read a book by Breena Yovanoff for quite some time, but didn't get a chance to do so until now. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley, I was able to read an advanced reader's copy of Yovanoff's latest release, Paper Valentine, a subtle book of love and death. I enjoyed the book for the most part, but I was left somewhat unsatisfied.

Description (from Goodreads): The city of Ludlow is gripped by the hottest July on record. The asphalt is melting, the birds are dying, petty crime is on the rise, and someone in Hannah Wagnor’s peaceful suburban community is killing girls. For Hannah, the summer is a complicated one. Her best friend Lillian died six months ago, and Hannah just wants her life to go back to normal. But how can things be normal when Lillian’s ghost is haunting her bedroom, pushing her to investigate the mysterious string of murders? Hannah’s just trying to understand why her friend self-destructed, and where she fits now that Lillian isn’t there to save her a place among the social elite. And she must stop thinking about Finny Boone, the big, enigmatic delinquent whose main hobbies seem to include petty larceny and surprising acts of kindness.
  With the entire city in a panic, Hannah soon finds herself drawn into a world of ghost girls and horrifying secrets. She realizes that only by confronting the Valentine Killer will she be able move on with her life—and it’s up to her to put together the pieces before he strikes again.

Review: The sleepy, small-town community Hannah Wagnor grew up in used to feel safe, but now, during a record-breaking July heat wave, a serial killer is targeting young girls. Like her setting, Hannah use to be a happy go-lucky girl but she has been hiding her depression since her best friend Lillian's death six months earlier. Hannah goes through the motions of daily life with a happy, superficial outlook such as dressing in bright colors and smiling when she's filled with sadness inside. She is constantly haunted by Lillian's ghost at her side and hears Lillian's running commentary of all the choices she makes from her clothes to her classmates. As more bodies are discovered, Hannah begins to see more ghosts-those of the murdered girls and begins to feel responsible to catch the serial killer. Investigating the deaths, she begins to wonder how much she really knows about Finny Boone, the cute bad boy she's has a crush on forever but is only just beginning to understand.
  The narrative tone of Paper Valentine is very detached and numb just like our heroine. Hannah's depression is believable. Her insecurities are tangible and the realizations of how Lillian truly was as a person is startlingly and insightful. The friendship between Hannah and Lillian is what I remember the most from this book. Lillian is the leader, obsessed about finding perfection, and slowly kills herself with anorexia. Hannah is the follower, who blindly trusts Lillian and is afraid to speak openly about her own opinions and desires. With the loss of Lillian,  Hannah has also lost her own self of identity. As the story progresses, we see Hannah thaw but it is inconsistent to her actions. For instance, Hannah has always been the dependable, responsible older sister who keeps her sisters safe, a quality that I greatly admire. When she begins to embrace her emotions, however, she starts a romance with the shady, distant, and mysterious Finny Boone at the cost of leaving her younger sisters alone with a serial killer running around their town. Of course I understood that Finny isn't what he appears to be and has a painful past, but there more than enough warning bells that went off that would make Hannah think twice before running around with him in dark places alone. To say the least, I was a bit perplexed of what to make our heroine and her choices.
  Paper Valentine has an overambitious story that bounces from important and big topics such as guilt, depression, and eating disorders to child abuse, foster families, serial murder, and mean girls. The book takes on so many issues that the characters and plot remain underdeveloped. Though the book seems to be marketed as a supernatural/paranormal murder mystery, the murders just hang in the periphery of the characters. There were quite a few times while reading the book that I forgot the murders even existed. Though there are some creepy moments in the book, the murderer, once revealed, seems random and lacks real motive, and his ultimate confession to Hannah felt underwhelming and anticlimactic. It seems as if the clues to discover the murderer were far more important than any insight into the psychology of a murderer or the fate of the ghosts in the end. Though it is engrossing at times, Paper Valentine moves at a slow pace and leaves too many loose ends, too many questions unanswered.
 Paper Valentine is not my last book by the author and I do look forward to reading her earlier books as well as future releases.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language and disturbing images. Recommended for Grades

If you like this book try: Love You, Hate You, Miss You by Elizabeth Scott, Velveteen by Daniel Marks,  The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson

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Third Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson #3)

  Charley Davidson was one of my best finds from last year. There are currently four books in the series that are currently out. I'm eagerly awaiting the release of Fifth Grave Past the Light, which releases this July. I love spending time with Charley and company.

Description: Part-time Private Investigator and full time Grim Reaper extraordinaire, Charley Davidson, is back and drinking copious amounts of caffeine to stay awake because, every time she closes her eyes, she sees him: Reyes Alexander Farrow. Yes, she did royally piss him off the last time they met, but how else is she suppose to solve her cases and deal with all the other kinds of drama in her life?

Review: This third installment of the Charley Davidson series is probably my favorite so far. The writing and the plot structure are a lot stronger. The subplots in this book held my attention throughout, which is a complaint that I had of the first two books as I thought they seem to clutter the mysterious relationship between Charley and her mercurial love interest, Reyes. Each subplot carried the same theme and tone throughout so it never took you out of the story, but rather pushed you to read just another page or chapter when you thought you could take a break.
  Books in a series can become formulaic very quickly, but Jones avoids this as she introduces new characters and carefully places plot twists that I did not see coming. Family drama and relationship issues offers its own interesting and complicating dimensions to the story. We are given some answers as to how Charley and Reyes fit into the little event called the Apocalypse  Like Charley, we are also left in the dark about how powerful she truly is and we very impatient for more answers.
  The series trademark is not in the mysteries that Charley solves, which could easily be solved by readers who pay careful attention to the clues that are sprinkled across the pages, but rather its characters and their irresistible humor. Charley's humor is infectious and within minutes she has me laughing. Her snarky comments and levity to the dark situations that she finds herself. A normal person would throw in the towel and say that can't held it but Charley is not ordinary by any means. Charley's best friend and partner in crime, Cookie, is the epitome of a best friend. She runs with Charley's antics and plays off her off beat humor. I can only imagine all the conversations they would share in the office.
  Reyes still continues to confuse me. Though he is undoubtedly physically attractive, I didn't like him at all in this book. Part of me wonders if he is trying to make Charley hate him on purpose, but he does have some sweet moments that me make hesitate to say he is evil. I know there is a lot about Reyes we don't know and I'm eager to find out more. Readers looking for a funny, fun, and charming book with some doses of paranormal and romance should definitely pick this series up. It'll brighten up anyone's horrible day.

Rating: 4.5 stars

Words of Caution: There is strong language, crude humor, some strong violence, and a few sexual situations. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Fourth Grave Dead Ahead by Darynda Jones (Charley Davidson #4), Accidental Friends series by Dakota Cassidy, Peper Martin series by Casey Daniels, Undead series by MaryJanice Davidson, and the Chicagoland Vampire series by Chloe Neill

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The Last Echo (Bodyfinder #3)

 Readers looking for a great paranormal romantic suspense book recommendation should look no further than the Body Finder series by Kimberly Derting. This series is sure to grab anyone's attention. Unlike some protagonists that have extraordinary powers that I would love to have, I definitely do not want Violet's and would much rather prefer being an ordinary human.

Description (from Goodreads): Violet kept her morbid ability to sense dead bodies a secret from everyone except her family and her childhood-best-friend-turned-boyfriend, Jay Heaton. That is until forensic psychologist Sara Priest discovered Violet’s talent and invited her to use her gift to track down murderers. Now, as she works with an eclectic group of individuals—including mysterious and dangerously attractive Rafe—it’s Violet’s job to help those who have been murdered by bringing their killers to justice. When Violet discovers the body of a college girl killed by “the girlfriend collector” she is determined to solve the case. But now the serial killer is on the lookout for a new “relationship” and Violet may have caught his eye....

Review: The Last Echo returns the Body Finder series to its creepy, spine-tingling, and suspenseful premise and format. Violet has the ability to feel "echoes," sensations that help her find dead bodies and killers. While still struggling with accepting her ability, she has more or less become involved in solving horrendous murder crimes. She has now caught the eye of Agent Sarah who runs a special team of teens working on high-profile projects for the police and has been invited to join the team. Soon Violet finds out that there are other teens like her who have extraordinary powers such as divining facts from objects and talking to ghosts just to name a few. For once Violet doesn't feel like a freak, but she also can't shake off the uneasiness of being on the outside as she isn't told much about the special team and no one with the exception of the hot and cold Rafe seems to reluctantly open up to her.
  Derting works suspense and a tightly held plot quite well in The Last Echo. We are given little clues about the special team and an inside glimpse of Rafe's personal life, but not complete answers. I'm still ambivalent about the special team introduced in the book as a lot of its history is cloaked in mystery. Who is Sarah's supervisor  How long have they had their eyes on Violet? Does Violet a contract with them or can she leave at any time?
    Aside from learning about the special team, Violet's therapy session with her shrink, hired by the special team's organizers, due to panic attacks and nightmares is a fascinating look at Violet's psyche and plays an important role in Violet's new case. The therapy sessions puts Violet out of her comfort zone, particularly when asked about her ability and how far she is willing to work for her team. Violet's strength, physical, mental, and emotional, are put to the test when she is placed in some tense situations. Her latest case involves women who are being murdered by the "collector," a serial killer who attacks victims and dresses them as if they were going on dates. And in a separate matter, she encounters James Nua, a man with strong echoes from murdering his girlfriend and children. The Collector and James Nua are both equally disturbing and terrifying. Though their antics are not described in details, we are given enough information to cause goosebumps and shudder. Like many other teens found in similar situations in YA books who don't report their worries to their parents, Violet simple safety precautions which did illicit my frustration as a reader but she did demonstrates maturity and courage in many ways of getting out of tricky situations which I admired.
  Although the relationship between Violet and Jay took precedence in book two of this series, Desires of the Dead, the romance is less apparent and regulated in the background. While there are sweet moments, there is a potential of a love triangle. Rafe is a brooding guy with secrets and Violet's inability to detect his mood swings and understand him confuses and intrigues her. There is also the unexplained energy shocks that occurs whenever Rafe and Violet come into physical contact. Luckily, Violet doesn't spend time pondering "what if" scenarios about Rafe and she truly does love her best-friend turned boyfriend Jay but does her complicated feelings about Rafe mean that she is betraying her loyal boyfriend? I really truly hope not. I would like to see one couple who can stay safe from a love triangle plus I adore Violet and Jay as a couple. While The Last Echo doesn't end on a cliffhanger, we are left with a cruel teaser and I can't wait to find out what obstacles throws into the path of our heroine. You might want to read this one right before bed unless you don't mind leaving the lights on while you sleep.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language and disturbing images. Recommended for strong Grade 8 readers and up.

If you like this book try: Dead Silence (Body Finder #4) by Kimberly Derting, coming April 2013, Graveyard Queen series by Amanda Stevens, Clarity by Kim Harrington, Spookygirl by Jill Baguchinsky, Touch by Francine Prose, Slide by Jill Hathaway

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Manga Monday: Vampire Knight Vol. 15

  Manga Mondays is a meme hosted by Alison at Alison Can Read where bloggers can share their passion for reading mangas. It's a great place to get new manga titles to try and to meet new bloggers. Vampire Knight is one of my favorite manga series. Getting each new volume of the manga is like watching a new episode of your favorite TV show. Unfortunately, the plot of the manga can be confusing at times, especially when the volumes have a long break between them and the publishers don't write a really good summary of the series as a recap for its readers.

Description: With Kaname missing, Yuki must now step in as acting head of her clan to maintain the fragile peace between the human and vampire societies. Will she be able to regain the trust of the vampire aristocrats, much less Aido?

Review: Volume 15 of Vampire Knight immediately picks up where volume 14 ended. Kaname has murdered two pureblood vampire aristocrats for mysterious reasons and now he is nowhere to be found. The Vampire Hunter society has arrested Yuki in hopes of finding out information about Kaname. Yuki, like the rest of us, has no idea what Kaname intends to do nor does she have any clue about his whereabouts.
I found this volume to be a bit confusing, but I did enjoy watching Yuki stand up on her own two feet. With Kaname absent, she now has to take the responsibility in leading the vampires, tame their frantic aristocrats, and reinstate the peace alliance between vampires, vampire hunters, and humans. Yuki struggles on how to lead her people. She is not a natural leader nor charismatic, but her compassion and her human experiences give her an edge. Unlike Kaname who has ruled with an iron fist, Yuki gives her followers an option and they almost always obey because they know she is right. As her first move as leader, Yuki wants to rebuild a school where Day and Night Classes once again take place. Though the idea of recreating a school may seem an odd move at first, it does reassure the vampires that an organized, structured framework can once again be placed.
  Hino once again teases the readers about the ambiguous relationship between Yuki and Zero, who were once best friends and had the potential to become much more. Though Zero claims to not want anything to do with Yuki, he is always found in her periphery. His hatred of vampires is tangible and understandable given his dark past. He is deteriorating quickly, which he can't hide from Yuki. Similarly, Yuki tries to hold on to her humanity and suppresses her urge to drink from humans in order to be a role model of how she would like her vampires to behave, but Zero knows how difficult it is for her.
  With the exception of the last few panels featuring Yuki and Zero, I was a bit disappointed with Hino's artwork. There was quite a lot of shading and quite a few panels broken within one another. It was a bit hard  trying to figure out what was happening. Also there were quite a few new characters mentioned in this volume that I'm pretty sure weren't there before and I'm really hoping their introduction would be made clearer in the next volume.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Words of Caution: There is some violence and mild language. Recommended for teens and up.

If you like this book try: Vampire Knight Volume 16 by Matsuri Hino, Black Bird series by Kanoko Sakurakouji, Millennium Snow series by Bisco Hatori

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Two Ravens, One Crow + Trapped

    I got a nice double dose of the Iron Druid Chronicles thanks to the series's publisher and Netgalley. Both the novella and the fifth book, Trapped, are now published and available. The Iron Druid Chronicles is a great urban fantasy series, especially if you love mythology.

Description (from Goodreads): Six years into the training of his beautiful apprentice, Granuaile, a large crow swoops down and transforms into none other than the Morrigan, a goddess who insists that Atticus come with her at once. He must leave his apprentice behind, along with his Irish wolfhound, Oberon—and he must also leave his sword. The Morrigan has always taken extreme pleasure in pronouncing the Druid’s mortal danger and imminent doom, so the fact that she won’t reveal the purpose of their journey makes him very nervous. Of course, any time the Celtic Chooser of the Slain drops in unannounced, it’s never good. When she does let slip that she’ll be saving his life in the near future, Atticus is left to wonder . . . will he soon be giving his legions of enemies something to crow about?

Review: Most novellas are fan service materials, things readers would love to read but overall don't really add much to the larger story arc. Thankfully, Two Ravens and One Crow moves the story along from book four, Tricked, to book five, Trapped, quite nicely. The novella gives the reader an intimate glimpse on Atticus's feelings toward his apprentice, Granuaile, as well as a closer look at the truly terrifying and captivating Morrigan.
  Atticus and Granuaile's relationship is extremely sweet. Both are clearly attracted to another yet are afraid to take the next step. While Atticus sounds like a man suffering unrequited love, not because he isn't sure of Granuaile's feelings but more of his fear of letting someone in, Granuaile is on the search for someone temporary, which is becoming more and more unfulfilling for both of them.

  The novella also does a good job in showing all the different angles to the Morrigan's personality. Personally, she scares the hell of me but I'm am drawn to her and want to know more about her. Death and dark omens cloak her like clothes, but we also see a lighter side of her that jokes and flits with Atticus. She becomes a bit more human in this novella though she bears ill news of Atticu's pending death. 

  Though reading the novella isn't required in order to enjoy the series, it is a nice bonus story filled with action, humor, and surprising tidbits about our favorite characters.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is strong language and violence in the book. There is also crude sexual humor and  sex is implied. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Trapped (Iron Druid Chronicles #5) by Kevin Hearne, The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher, Cal Leandros series by Rob Thurman,  Child of Fire by Harry Connollly


Description (from Goodreads): After twelve years of secret training, Atticus O’Sullivan is finally ready to bind his apprentice, Granuaile, to the earth and double the number of Druids in the world. But on the eve of the ritual, the world that thought he was dead abruptly discovers that he’s still alive, and they would much rather he return to the grave. Having no other choice, Atticus, his trusted Irish wolfhound, Oberon, and Granuaile travel to the base of Mount Olympus, where the Roman god Bacchus is anxious to take his sworn revenge—but he’ll have to get in line behind an ancient vampire, a band of dark elves, and an old god of mischief, who all seem to have KILL THE DRUID at the top of their to-do lists.

Review: I love the cover for Trapped. It's so nice to see Granuaile take center stage along with Atticus. Unfortunately, this was my least favorite book in the Iron Druid Chronicles so far. I had a very hard time trying to wrap my head of the plot. After twelve grueling years of training and learning, Granuaile is finally ready to become a druid. Atticus, Granuaile and the ever loving and lovable Irish wolfhound Oberon try to find a safe a quiet and place to bind Granuaile to the earth as a new Druid. The ceremony will take three months to complete (it involves extensive tattooing), so it's important to find somewhere they won't be interrupted. Easier said than done as deities bent on vengeance and hatred have caught on to the fact that neither Atticus nor Granualie are dead as they led everyone to believe, which is something a few people would like to swiftly rectify.
   I loved learning about all the intricate details of the the druid ceremony and seeing Granuaile kick some butt. Then suddenly the plot is severely interrupted by new characters and new mythologies. I know some readers have criticized Hearne by being too much of a teacher of mythology than writer, but now I can understand their concern. Hearne is undeniably a lover of mythology of all cultures and I loved learning the different myths and the Norse and Celtic pantheons, but in Trapped I felt like I was forced to sit in a classroom where the teacher droned on and on about these great tales without really experiencing it. I endured the lesson but was impatient to get back to the druid ceremony. Normally I would want to learn more about the new characters that Hearne includes in his books, but in Trapped I had very little interest about the dark elves and other beings.
   I was also very disappointed in seeing the budding relationship that teetered between romantic and partners wrap up so quickly in a matter of paragraphs. While I know that the Iron Druid Chronicles is primarily an urban fantasy where romance takes a back seat, I would have liked a little more excitement and build up. Readers have waited for 12 years in the story to have something happen between Atticus and Granuaile and what we got was very anticlimactic. I'm hoping the next book, Hunted, is much better and reminds me why I love these characters and books.

Rating: 3 stars

Words of Caution: There is strong language and violence in the book. There is also crude sexual humor and  sex is implied. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Hunted (Iron Druid Chronicles #6) by Kevin Hearne, The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher, Cal Leandros series by Rob Thurman,  Child of Fire by Harry Connollly

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Clockwork Prince (Infernal Devices #2)

   I pre-ordered my copy of Clockwork Prince as soon as I had finished Clockwork Angel, but it took me months to actually read it. Why? After being horribly disappointed by City of Lost Souls, the last thing I needed was another book from Clare that suffered from middle book syndrome and I needed time to get over my bad book aftertaste. I happy to say that Clockwork Prince not only avoids the middle book syndrome, but it also reminded me of why I loved the world of the Shadowhunters.

Description: As the Council attempts to strip Charlotte of her power, sixteen-year-old orphaned shape-changer Tessa Gray works with the London Shadowhunters to find the Magister and destroy his clockwork army, learning the secret of her own identity while investigating his past.

Review: Tessa is a shape-shifting Shadowhunter who is becoming accustomed to her powers. In the middle of trying to find out more about her past and be thrust in the middle of all the magic, intrigue and mystery in Victorian England, but the  relationships between Tessa, the enigmatic Will, and the thoughtful, sensitive Jem is the crux of the story.
  Clockwork Prince picks up immediately where Clockwork Angel left its readers. There is hardly any background information given, which for me was problematic since I have read the first book about a year ago. I did forget about some important characters and key events. After a provocative and straight-forward prologue, the story begins at the London Institute of Shadowhunters. The leaders of the Institute are given a two week deadline to find the evil Magister, who is still determined to gain control of Tessa’s powers and bring down the Enclave. Tessa and the Shadowhunters must battle dreadful clockwork creatures, demons, uncover hidden secrets and even treachery within their own ranks before everything around them is forever altered. We are also given tidbits on how the ties between the Lightwoods and Herondale families are formed. In addition to following our three main protagonists, we are also given more time with other secondary characters such as Jessamine, Henry, Charlotte, and Sophie as well as introduced to new characters.
   Unlike Clockwork Angel which focused more on the time period and action, Clockwork Prince has a slow burning plot that is dedicated to character development and relationships. Tessa becomes more sure of her unique position and powers. She is even more endearing in this book, because she is calm, level headed, and taking her obstacles in stride. I admire how she tries to approach her ever-changing relationships with Jem and Will, which deepens in a life-changing way without being wishy washy. Jem and Will both have enough time to come into their own as characters as well as have their individual alone moments to shine with Tessa, which provides lots of swooningly romantic and wildly sensual moments with our heroine. Jem unexpectedly reveals a new side to him, a man who doesn't want to be only known as the "sick one", and we finally discover the devastating secret in handsome, bad-boy Will’s tragic past. As you have probably guessed, Clockwork Prince has a love triangle and I think it's one of the most well-written love triangles I’ve read in a long time, not only Victorian with its timing and circumstances, but also a very hard one to solve. Tessa is torn between two very attractive and honorable boys; there are good reasons for Tessa to love them both, but also excellent reasons for her to give her heart to neither. I'm on and still remain Team Jem, but I will admit that Will has also won me over in Clockwork Prince.
  In addition to the romantic relationships, we are also shown the depth of Will's and Jem's friendship. Both searching for understanding, attachment, honor, and loyalty from one another. It is their strong connection to one another that makes the love triangle with Tessa even more potent. It is going to be hard to be with one without wounding the other. Sacrifice, love, honor, duty- all important ingredients of being a Shadowhunter, but what do you do if your heart is torn into all of these parts?
  Clockwork Prince has several important revelations hidden in the prose and a wicked cliffhanger. If you have been disappointed with the Mortal Instruments series or simply just can't get into it, I think you should try the Infernal Devices. Clare's writing is much stronger and more concise. I think it goes without saying that I'm really excited for Clockwork Princess and it might wise of me to do a quick reread of the first two books of the Infernal Devices before jumping with its concluding volume.

Rating: 4.5 stars

Words of Caution: There is some strong violence, minor language, and a scene at an opium-like den. Recommended for Grades 7 and up.

If you like this book try: The Gemma Doyle series by Libba Bray, Prophecy of Sisters by Michelle Zink, or The Mortal Instrument series by Cassandra Clare

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Second Grave on the Left (Charley Davidson #2)

 Thanks to a fabulous read along, I got introduced and addicted to the Charley Davidson series. I've a few books behind as I just finished the second book, Second Grave on the Left, when the fourth book was just released this past Tuesday. Luckily, I grabbed the third book from the library and am anxiously waiting for book four to become available.

Description: Charley Davison, a part-time private investigator and full-time Grim Reaper, teams up with best friend Cookie to track down Cookie's friend, Mimi, who has been missing for five days, but the clues lead them to uncover a more sinister plot. Meanwhile, Reyes Alexander Farrow,Charley's mysterious love interest, is busy hunting down Charley to protect her from some scheming demons.

Review: Ms. Jones successfully avoids the sophomore slump and middle book syndrome with the second book in the Charley Davidson series. Our favorite sexy, sassy, and snarky grim reaper has found herself tangled in three messy cases to solve along with sorting out her messy and complicated love life to boot.
With the first book, I had to find a reading rhythm which is why I found the first half of the book a bit slow, but once I got hooked it went smooth sailing. I didn't have this problem with Second Grave on the Left. The mystery had enough suspense to keep me reading instead of feeling a bit bored. Charley and Cookie are working on a new case, trying to solve the mystery behind Mimi's disappearance. Soon a simple kidnapping becomes much more series as secrets from the past come out slowly out of the wood-works. In the meantime, Charley is also trying to find the sexy and stubborn Reyes. There was much more suspense and action in this book which equally matched the trademark humor. I do still have a slight problem with the abrupt transitions from one story line to the other, but I hope this issue will become less of a problem with more books that Ms. Jones writes.

  Reyes, the sexy, tortured, love interest is even more mysterious and infuriating than he was in the first book when we knew nothing about him other than his smoldering looks. Though I find myself a bit weary of him and his hidden secrets, you can't help but be drawn to him like a moth to a flame. He is on par with Ethan Sullivan from the Chicagoland Vampire series as one of the most insufferable hero and I'm honestly not sure if that's a compliment. I'm more of a Team Garrett gal myself. While I can understand his objective, I not really on board with some of his choices in this book particularly towards the end.

  We are also learning more about Charley and her abilities as a Grim Reaper. She is clearly much more powerful than she realizes and I can't wait to find out more about what she can do. I like how we are learning more about her as she is learning about herself. Though the main mystery is nicely solved, we are also given a good dose of family drama and heart ache. There are many unanswered questions left and I'm really curious to see how Charley handles all the obstacles ahead of her.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is strong language, crude humor, some strong violence, and a few sexual situations. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Third Grave Dead Ahead by Darynda Jones (Charley Davidson #3), Accidental Friends series by Dakota Cassidy, Peper Martin series by Casey Daniels, Undead series by MaryJanice Davidson, and the Chicagoland Vampire series by Chloe Neill

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Halloween Picture Book Reviews (Part 1 of 3)

 With less than a week left until Halloween, what better to excite the little ones about the holiday than to read them Halloween themed picture books? I've got several picture books ready to review and this is just the first installment. Be sure to come back and check out parts 2 and 3 next week! Today I'll be reviewing Monster Museum by Marilyn Singer, Boogie Knights by Lisa Wheeler, and Just Say Boo! by Susan Hood.

Description (from the publisher): Come in--if you dare--and meet the werewolf, Count Dracula, the mummy, and some of their slimy, screaming, slithering friends. They're just dying to show you a good time!

Review: Singer describes an array of scary apparitions and frightful figures in this "ghastly" collection of poems. Children take a field trip and walk through a museum filled with monsters. The poetic verses found below the illustrations cleverly describe the monsters in a variety of poetic forms including limericks.  Grimly's (yes, that's the illustrator's real last name) colorful caricatures add to the fun by diffusing scary illustrations with humor. Several of the monsters wend their way out to the parking lot-one even drives the school bus. The "Glos-Scary" helps to keep all of the creatures straight. This fresh, witty book will be popular for not-so-scary story times, as well as independent reading for kids who just love monsters.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 1 through 5.

If you like this book try: Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich by Adam Rex, Boris and Bella by by Carolyn Crimi, Grimericks by Susan Pearson

Description (from the publisher): In this rip-roaring picture book, readers are invited to the party of the year, as all monsters large and small throw the most outrageous, most bodacious bash of them all--the Madcap Monster Ball.

Review: Monsters galore show up at a spooky castle for a whimsical Madcap Monster Ball and dance their hearts out. Upstairs seven knights with unusual names (Sir Veillance, Sir Prize, Sir Loin, Sir Round, Sir Cumference, Sir Ender, and finally my personal favorite, the lone Sir Vivor) are awakened at various times to find out what all the commotion is about and join in the fun. At the same time, a young prince wakes up scared and cautiously investigates the noise. A wild and crazy time is had by all with the final spread picturing the knights back in their places dreaming of next year's ball and the prince is happily asleep in his bed. This book was hysterical and I loved the clever wordplay of the text which is filled with puns and double meanings that I think will work well for many age levels. The cartoon illustrations perfectly catch all of the high-flying whimsy with small figures dancing and whirling across each double-page spread. When the ball begins, the illustrations are monochrome, but when the seven knights join in, the style changes and more color is added. To enhance the surreal and chaotic nature of the story, many art styles are used on each page, but it all works fantastically well. Readers and listeners will want to return the book without being bored as there is so much to unravel.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 1 through 5. 

If you like this book try: Bedtime at the Swamp by Kristyn Crow, Jumpy Jack & Googily by Meg Rosoff

Description: Young trick-or-treaters learn what to say in different Halloween situations.

Review: Halloween can be a frightening time for kids, but do you know what to do everything becomes too scary on this day? Just say Boo! This adorable story follows three young trick-or-treaters as they encounter frightening Halloween antics in their neighborhood when they go trick or treating. The story is simple and seasonable but the text is multi-functional and does a great job as it connects the traditions of the holiday (trick-or-treating), teaches manners (saying thank you), and shows what to do with a scared, teary toddler: Teach him to just say Boo! Advanced readers will find natural rhymes, use of alliteration, and strong images. Illustrated with an appropriate palette of fall colors and cozy images, the book embraces all good things about Halloween. 

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for preschool through Grade 1.

If you like this book try: It's Halloween Night! by Jennifer O'Connell and Ollie's Halloween by Olivier Dunrea

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Fair Game (Alpha and Omega #3)

  After being disappointed in Hunting Ground and River Marked , both of which I thought were lack luster reads by Patricia Briggs, I was hoping that Fair Game would infuse a bit more oomph to the characters and to the story line. I'm pleased to say that Fair Game delivers and sets up an interesting new direction for Briggs's future releases.

Description (from the publisher): They say opposites attract. And in the case of werewolves Anna Latham and Charles Cornick, they mate. The son-and enforcer-of the leader of the North American werewolves, Charles is a dominant alpha. While Anna, an omega, has the rare ability to calm others of her kind.
   Now that the werewolves have revealed themselves to humans, they can't afford any bad publicity. Infractions that could have been overlooked in the past must now be punished, and the strain of doing his father's dirty work is taking a toll on Charles.
  Nevertheless, Charles and Anna are sent to Boston, when the FBI requests the pack's help on a local serial killer case. They quickly realize that not only the last two victims were werewolves-all of them were. Someone is targeting their kind. And now Anna and Charles have put themselves right in the killer's sights...

Review: Fair Game is the third book in the Alpha and Omega series, a spin off to Brigg's popular Mercy Thompson series. Though the two series can be read independently, I would highly recommend that you read the Alpha Omega series in order and begin with the novella On the Prowl which first introduces us to the relationship of Charles and Anna.
  Briggs continues to explore the dynamics between the very alpha, serious and quiet wolf Charles and his stubborn, deceptively demure, and omega wife Anna. While they are still learning about each other and enjoying the early stages of their mating, Charles and Anna have hit a new bump in the road. Charles has a problem and he refuses to open up and let Anna help him.
   For many years, Charles has worked as Bran’s (the alpha of all werewolves in North America and Charles's father) executioner, destroying those who have broken the code of werewolves and have threaten the safety of the werewolf packs. Recent events have led werewolves to come out to the public and now Bran is trying to maintain a positive and safe image for his wolfs.
  Briggs's werewolves manage to keep the carnal aspects of the wolf without losing their humanity. While they can assimilate with the general public, they still pose a volatile and violent threat to those around them as their anger can be triggered very easily. For this reason, Bran sends Charles out to kill those wolves who are unable to keep their wolf in check. Neither Bran nor Charles take pleasure in hunting down fellow werewolves, but a system of balance is needed. Charles's executions are now taking their toll and as a result he is emotionally shutting everyone out, especially Anna.
  Charles's conflict is very complex, which Briggs effectively demonstrates this by showing how it effects many people especially Anna and Bran through their point of views. If we are placed in Anna's shoes, we can't help but wonder if Bran is just using his son to do the dirty work and is completely oblivious to see the ramifications on his son. If we see it through Bran's eyes, he knows he asks a lot from his son and feels guilty about it, but he really can't send out other alphas, fearing they couldn't handle it and it would push the older wolves to go lope. As for Charles, it's just another thing that he has to deal with and sort through himself.
  Readers of this series know that Charles is very introverted. His physically aggressive demeanor is a front and his reputation of a killer doesn't exactly make him approachable. In Fair Game we see Charles at his most vulnerable state. He has the ghosts of his previous kills lurking around him. They talk to him, scare him, and he is terrified if he acknowledges them too much, they will take control of him and eventually harm his wife. So he fights against the spirit's growing strength and keeps this pain and torment hidden from her. For the majority part of the book, Charles resorts to transforming himself to Brother Wolf, the name of Charles’s wolf, in order to deal with people. 

  Brother Wolf is an interesting character. Though completely separate from his human side. He is more forth coming and direct to the point. They both love Anna, but sometimes they disagree with each other. It is fascinating how Briggs is able to create different voices to these two aspects of Charles along with the long and serious struggle for Anna to break through Charles's walls.

  In order to reprieve Charles from his duties to the pack, Bran comes up with a somewhat temporary solution for him. There have been a string of murders in the Boston area involving werewolves. The FBI are desperate to catch this serial killer, and have given into the fact they might need a werewolf to give them some insight. With Adam Hauptmann home helping Mercy recover, Bran sends Anna and Charles to Boston. When a powerful fae’s daughter becomes the next victim, Charles and Anna stick around until they can bring justice. The mystery is probably one of the best plots written by Briggs as it not only matches the inner turmoil of her characters, but it also stays on track. There is no lengthy, long winded explanation of how the murder is solved like they can be in some of her books. There is also enough clues to keep the pages turning. While there is no cliffhanger per se, the ending leaves us with lots of questions about the future the political maneuverings of the various paranormal creatures in Briggs's world. It's too bad that we have to wait until March 2013 to find out what happens next.

 

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: Strong violence, language, disturbing images related to mutilations and rape, and a small sex scene. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Mercy Thomspon series by Patricia Briggs, Nightshade series by Andrea Cremer, Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews, Bitten by Kelley Armstrong, Silver by Rhiannon Held, Touch the Dark by Karen Chance

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Author Interview: E.K. Henry

  Happy Friday, Everyone! Today I'm pleased to have author E.K. Henry here to give us a little sneak peek to her book Freak. Before we get to the interview, here is a little info about E.K.: E.K. Henry has always had a passion for books ever since she can remember. She has grown up spending countless nights being swept away by her favorite books into the wee hours of the night. She lives with her son and husband in Tennessee. Freak is her debut novel.

Welcome to Books in the Spotlight, E.K.! Freak is a paranormal story with dystopian elements. What made you decide to blend these two genres in your story?  

Well, I did not really plan for it to be that way; it kind of just happened.  I came up with the idea for Freak while reading a story about a Mormon family that was getting their own reality television show.  Most of the family seemed thrilled about the idea, but one child in particular wasn't.  They didn't want the world to see how different their family was from mainstream society.  This story got me thinking about what it would be like to be forced to participate in a show that was meant to spotlight how different you are than everybody else.  I tried to imagine the worst scenario that I would hate to be put in myself, and that is how Freak was born. 

Books featuring vampires are pretty abundant. How did you make your book different? What draws you to these creatures of the night?  

Yes, vampire books are abundant, but that is actually what inspired me to write one.  I wanted to challenge myself to write a new twist.  That twist included having humans be the minority, vampires that could go out in the sun, and a reality television show.  I haven’t seen anything else out there that had all of those elements.

What are some of your favorite scenes or lines from the book?

 My favorite scene is actually a spoiler so I can’t go into too much detail, but the scene is where Juniper reveals to her friend, Abi, her thoughts on what the medicine has done to her friend.  When I was writing it, it took a twist that even I didn’t see coming.

Do you have a favorite vampire from books or movies? If so, who and why?  

I love the main character [Selene] in Underworld.  She is strong woman who stays true to herself.

If you could live in any paranormal world, either in books or movies, TV, where would you live and why?

I would live in any of Stephen King's books because I love the world he creates. I still blame him for my irrational fear of clowns.

Did anything surprise you while writing Freak?  

Yes, these characters took on  life of their own and quite frankly my nice outline that I created went out the window because the characters didn't want to behave and started doing what they wanted.

In less than 10 words, how would you describe Juniper? 

Determined and spirited

October is the month we gear up for Halloween. What is your most memorable Halloween?  

The Halloween where I dressed up like a killer clown.  I hate clowns and to be dressed like a psycho one freaked me the hell out, but I did it.  It made me feel empowered because I fought through a fear.

What can readers expect from Freak? 

A quick fun read that is full of action.

What's next for you? 

I am planning on at least a sequel.  There are also some novellas in the works that go deeper into some of the other character’s stories.

Readers, if you would like to know more about and contact E.K. Henry, please check out her website, Twitter, and email. You can also find her at Goodreads too. 

Be sure to check out the awesome giveaway that I'm currently running for Freak. Just click on the cover below to enter the giveaway. There is still plenty of time to enter!

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Storm (Elementals #1)

  Usually when you think of paranormal your mind instantly goes to vampires, werewolves, zombies, demons, and et. al., but what about highly gifted humans? Storm, the first book in the Elemental series by Brigid Kemmerer is a refreshingly human paranormal romance that will keep you glued to the pages.

Description (from Goodreads): Becca Chandler is suddenly getting all the guys all the ones she doesn't want. Ever since her ex-boyfriend spread those lies about her. Then she saves Chris Merrick from a beating in the school parking lot. Chris is different. Way different: he can control water just like his brothers can control fire, wind, and earth. They're powerful. Dangerous. Marked for death.
  And now that she knows the truth, so is Becca. Secrets are hard to keep when your life's at stake. When Hunter, the mysterious new kid around school, turns up with a talent for being in the wrong place at the right time, Becca thinks she can trust him. But then Hunter goes head-to-head with Chris, and Becca wonders who's hiding the most dangerous truth of all. The storm is coming.

Review: I had no idea what to expect when I picked up Storm, but after reading many positive reviews from fellow trusted bloggers I knew I was in good hands. Reading Storm was a lot like watching a really good pilot episode of a promising TV show. You get introduced to a large cast of characters, some of which you align yourself instantly after a few dialogues are exchanged while others you release a sigh of frustration when the opposing side appears. The closest thing I could describe Storm to is a paranormal re-imagining of one of my favorite reads growing up: The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. Both books contain similar elements, particularly the strong bond between a group of brothers that are left alone and struggle to survive along with the feeling of always being on the outer fringes of their society, which enthralled me the moment I began to read the book to the excitement of knowing the story continues in a new installment.
   Storm is not a complex read and the writing may not draw your attention, but the story is very straightforward. The dialogue like the characters feel realistic and natural. The series revolves around the Merrick brothers who all have a very strong elemental connection. Eldest brother and sole legal guardian Michael controls earth, where as the twins Gabriel and Nick control fire and air respectively. Youngest brother Chris can control water. All four of them are far more powerful than they should be which causes the rift among other Elementals and inspires fear and hate.
  When we first meet Chris, he is at his most vulnerable state but physically and emotionally. He has been ambushed and beaten to a pulp by two older boys. Chris can't use his powers to defend himself because he has yet learned to master his strength and is afraid to lose control. Luckily, Becca comes to his rescue, some how wards off the boys, and takes him home. There she is met with much hostility from the other Merrick boys, who are suspicious of her kindness. Chris doesn’t really know Becca though they share some classes together. He is definitely aware of rumors of her promiscuity that follows her like a shadow. Becca, however, is far from the girl she is perceived to be. Smart and snarky, she avoids the spotlight and tries to fight against slander. I think she sees similarities between herself and Chris. Then, suddenly, she is thrust into the middle of Chris’s drama, and a gorgeous new boy is showing a real interest in her.
  Yes, there is a love triangle brewing in the story and normally I would moan and say "Not again" but while reading Storm, I didn't have any qualms about it because I liked how Kemmerer takes her time to unfold all the individual relationships with a natural pacing with just enough surprises to keep us on our toes. I would have liked more romantic moments in the book, but I really do think this is a budding romance that will definitely become sweeter as it grows.
  While there is no cliffhanger per se at the end of Storm, there are many unanswered questions left. I can't wait until I read the next book which features Gabriel. This would be a series that I wouldn't hesitate in recommending to teen boys as there is plenty of action and the romance doesn't overtake the plot. As a side note, I highly suggest reading the prequel found at the back of the book (really publishers? how does that make sense?) to really understand Michael. After reading his beginnings, he may not seem as prickly in Storm. Personally, I think he's an awesome older brother trying to do the best that he can.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: Strong language, underage drinking, attempted sexual assault, and crude sexual humor. Recommended for Grades 9 and up.

If you like this book try: Chronicles of Nick series by Sherrilyn Kenyon, Intertwined series by Gena Showalter, The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

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Character Interview: Lucy Day from Dead Girl + Giveaway!

  Happy Monday! I have another wonderful opportunity to introduce you to a brand new author and Lucy Day, the heroine of Deadgirl by B.C. Johnson. Lucy was suppose to have a great time on her first date with Zack. Instead she gets killed and wakes up alive the next morning trying to sort things out. Help me welcome Lucy to the blog and learn about her current predicament. If you're interested to learn more about Lucy, check out the giveaway at the bottom of this post.

  Before we get to the interview, here is the book cover and description of Deadgirl by B.C. Johnson:

Fifteen-year-old Lucy Day falls between the gears in the machinery of the afterlife. She is murdered while on her first date, but awakens a day later, completely solid and completely whole. She has no hunger for brains, blood, or haunting, so she crosses “zombie,” “vampire,” and “ghost” off her list of re-life possibilities. But figuring out what she is becomes the least of her worries when Abraham, Lucy’s personal Grim Reaper, begins dogging her, dead-set on righting the error that dropped her back into the spongy flesh of a living girl.

Lucy must put her mangled life back together, escape re-death, and learn to control her burgeoning psychic powers while staying one step ahead of Abraham. But when she learns the devastating price of coming back from the dead, Lucy is forced to make the hardest decision of her re-life—a decision that could save her loved ones...or kill them.

Hey Lucy. Welcome to the blog! In Twitter style, how would you describe yourself?

Confusingly hilarious, occasionally terrified, slightly less stubborn than a herd of donkeys. Atlanta High School resident student smartass.
 
Who is Zack?

Zack is . . . complicated. We had a mess of a non-relationship our Freshman year. One of those "will they won't they ah crap they messed it up" kind of deals. If either of us had guts or a working head on our shoulders things might have turned out differently.

Zack is smart, Zack is brave, Zack makes me want to be a better person just by being around him. Zack makes me stronger, and I like to think I make him stronger too. I don't know.
 
What was the first thought that popped into your head when Zack asked you on a date?

Probably something like "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH." What do you think when you try not to pee yourself? I guess I just couldn't believe he'd finally asked, really. Why had he finally asked? What had taken a year of flirting and significant glances to finally say "Hey Luce, wanna hit the movies? By the way, I want to kiss you."

Unfortunately, your dream date didn't happen, but what did you hope for?

Certainly not for what happened. I don't know. It was my first date - I'm not exactly an expert. A million Julia Roberts / Kate Hudson movies have told me there ought to be flowers, a stunning act of heroism, maybe lips. Yeah, lips. Lips are good. Oh, and maybe the coat-over-the-rain puddle thing. I'm a sucker for the classics. If somehow a puppy could have been involved . . .

What are you exactly?

Lucy Day, fifteen-year-old girl who is completely normal and nothing at all weird happened to her. Some people disappear for a day. It happens.

In honesty? I've heard the word Phantom thrown around, but I don't know what any of that means. My sole source of information is a mute dude. It's less "ironic" and more "terrifically irritating." I tell you this - I'm alive. I'm not a monster. Woe to the person who tries to disagree.
 
Best thing about being re-animated? Worst thing?

Best thing? Not bleeding out in a bank parking lot. I'd call that the incredible upside.

Down side? I guess it's a toss up between "being stalked by a monster made of light" and "never having to sleep." I'll tell you what - sleeping is highly underrated. Do you have any idea how hard it is to fill the time when you don't sleep? I guess I need to take up crochet or sculpting or brain surgery. I've got a LOT of time to kill.
 
What's the most important lesson that you learned so far?

Never give up. Never stop. Never let anyone tell you what you can't be, and never let anyone try to take from you what's yours. All the strength you'll ever need is already there.

There's always a catch with getting a second shot at life, what's yours?

Let's just say that my body doesn't run off sandwichesanymore.

If you could change one thing about yourself it would be...

If I look in the mirror, plenty. Heh. I guess I'd say my heart - I have no ability to hold back. I just can't. I wish I could get a rein on that thing, but I don't think I'm in the driver's seat. I just feel.I love hard, I die hard, and I'm fiercely protective of my friends. I make bad decisions sometimes, I mess up, I leap to spectacularly wrong conclusions. I wish my heart wasn't pumping right there on my sleeve. I guess I'm saying a cold-calculating-logic injection wouldn't go amiss.

What would you like to say or do if you were to meet Abraham, the Grim Reaper, face to face?

I'll go with the "non-profanity" version. I guess it'd be something like: "You just signed up for the hardest gig of your life, buddy. I'm a weed with deep roots, I'm a cockroach, I'm Superman. Good luck you son of - " Sorry. No profanity, got it.

Thanks for stopping by, Lucy, and I hope you figure things out quickly.

  GIVEAWAY

This giveaway is open to U.S. and international readers! Please read the details below:

For U.S. READERS: ONE (1) lucky reader will get 1 (one) signed paperback copy of Deadgirl along with 1 (one) signed bookmark. 

For INTERNATIONAL READERS: ONE (1) lucky reader will get 1 (one) ebook copy of Deadgirl. 

To enter the giveaway, please leave your name and email address so I can contact you if you win. The giveaway will be held until SATURDAY, November 17th. The winners (one U.S. and one international) will be chosen randomly by Random.org and will announced on my blog on SUNDAY, November 18th. Good luck! 

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Guest Post: Alternative Britain Setting in "The Substitute" by Holly Barrington

I'm thrilled to participate in Something Wicked Comes, a fabulous event where bloggers and authors celebrate all things creepy during the month of October. The event is hosted by Rainy Day Ramblings and Babbling About Books. Be sure to stop by and visit the busy month long schedule to sign up for awesome giveaways, read interviews from your favorite authors, and discover some great books!
  As part of my participation in the Something Wicked Comes for today, I'd like to share with you a guest post by indie author, Holly Barrington, who would like to talk to us about her alternative Britain setting for her debut paranormal novel The Substitute! Be sure to scroll down to the end of the post to see how you can win a copy of Freak. Below is the pretty book cover and its description:

   My book "The Substitute" is set in an alternate Britain, where Vampires and Mortals coexist more or less in harmony. They live together as part of a single, integrated society, which has been made possible by two significant developments. One is artificial human blood, known as "The Substitute". The other is a drug that renders Vampires immune to daylight.
 Vampires and Mortals work together, play together and become friends. Some even marry, although this is still quite rare. For the most part there is no real difference between the two groups. Vampires are stronger and have superior reflexes, but these have little meaning in everyday life. However, just as in any society, there are always extremists. Those who seek to change the order of things through terrorism. There are of course agencies set up to deal with this issue, just as in our world, and the conflict between the two sides is at the heart of the book.
  This alternative Britain has a similar history to ours, although the book only mentions the First World War onwards. The main differences are the major milestones in Vampire/Mortal relations, such as an agreement known as The Compact, and the involvement of Vampires in the Third Reich. There are a number of reasons why I chose Britain as the setting for my book. Because of the degree of cooperation needed between Vampires and Mortals, based on free will and voluntary participation, the book would not have "worked" in anything but a free, democratic country. It also needed to be set in a country with a long history of integration
and acceptance, with relatively little conflict. And the fact that I am British might have had something to do with it as well.
   From my point of view, "The Substitute" is a reflection of modern, multicultural Britain where the majority get on very well. I'm no George Orwell, though. I didn’t set out to make any kind of social or political statements. I'm just influenced/inspired by such things, and this is reflected in my writing.
   I hope this has piqued your interest enough to want to read my book. I hope you do, and I hope you enjoy it. Thank you so much for reading my post, and thank you, Rummanah, for inviting me!


Thank you for stopping by, Holly!

“The Substitute” is set in an alternate Britain, where Vampires and Mortals co-exist more or less in harmony. However, that may soon be about to change . . .

Emily Brown starts her new job at Pathway Software, and at first everything goes well. She makes new friends there and her bosses are impressed so things are really looking up for Emily. Until her friend is killed. Murdered. The official account said it was a gang hit gone bad, and rumours suggest she had drugs in her possession.

However another, unofficial, report suggests that the bullet wounds were all post-mortem, and the drugs were planted on her in the morgue. It also says that she suffered multiple broken bones, cuts, contusions and…vampire bites. Everything suggests that her friend died a brutal and vicious death at the hands of a number of vampires.

Vampire and Mortal relations are, on the whole, very good. Ever since The Compact, there have been eighty five years of unprecedented peace between the two worlds. But there are some dissenters, the foremost of which are the sinister Circle of Ixiom. And Emily is about to become their bitterest enemy . . .

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Adult Minireviews: The Greyfriar (Vampire Empire #1), The Abandoned (Graveyard Queen), and Timeless (Parasol Protectorate #5)

  In the spirit of the Something Wicked blogging event, I wanted to share with you some adult mini-reviews that about things that go bump in the night and that may be featured during this month. Today I'll be reviewing The Greyfriar (Vampire Empire #1), The Abandoned (Graveyard Queen), and Timeless (Parasol Protectorate #5).

Description (from Goodreads): In 1870, monsters rise up and conquer the northern lands. As great cities are swallowed up by carnage and disease, landowners and other elite flee south to escape their blood-thirsty wrath. One hundred fifty years later, the great divide still exists; fangs on one side of the border, worried defenders on the other. This fragile equilibrium is threatened, then crumbles after a single young princess becomes almost hopelessly lost in the hostile territory. At first, she has only one defender—a mysterious Greyfriar who roams freely in dangerous vampire regions.

Review: I thought I'd try this book out after reading some great reviews from fellow bloggers. For the most part, I really did enjoy The Greyfriar, but I did have to find my rhythm in reading the story. There is a large cast of characters that I had trouble at first getting straight as they entered and excited very quickly. The plot had enough action to keep me occupied, but it is the slow burn relationship between the young, fiesty, and strong willed princess, Adele, and the mysterious Greyfriar that caught my attention. Readers looking for strong steampunk elements may be disappointed with this book as it's very lightly featured, but I'm guessing that these elements will become stronger in the next book of the series. By the end of the book, I wanted to know more about the world that the authors created and the characters. I'm looking forward to continuing this series.

Rating: 3.5 stars

Words of Caution: There is some strong violence, language, and disturbing images. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: The Rift Walker (Vampire Empire #2), Boneshaker by Cherie Priest


Description (from Goodreads): There are rules for dealing with ghosts. Too bad Ree Hutchins doesn't know them. When her favorite patient at a private mental hospital passes away, psychology student Ree Hutchins mourns the elderly woman's death. But more unsettling is her growing suspicion that something unnatural is shadowing her.
   Amateur ghost hunter Hayden Priest believes Ree is being haunted. Even Amelia Gray, known in Charleston as The Graveyard Queen, senses a gathering darkness. Driven by a force she doesn't understand, Ree is compelled to uncover an old secret and put abandoned souls to rest--before she is locked away forever....

Review: The Abandoned is a prequel novella to the Graveyard Queen series by Amanda Stevens. The novella can easily be read independently from the series. While it contains the similar style of her paranormal mysteries, this novella left something more to be desired. While only less than 100 pages, Stevens takes her time to plan out her plot but I couldn't connect with the characters introduced in this novella. I think part of the problem is that I liked Amelia right from the start, but I didn't really think that Ree had enough of a personality to make her a three dimensional character. The plot was decent but I thought the ending and resolution of the ending was just too quick. I would recommend picking up this novella to give you a sense of what things you could expect from the author, but you want to fully immerse in the awesome paranormal mystery storyline you can go straight to reading The Restorer, the first book in the Graveyward Queen series.

Rating: 3 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language, a small sex scene, and disturbing images. Recommended for mature teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: The Body Finder series by Kimberly Derting, Clarity by Kim Harrington, The Graveyard Queen series by Amanda Stevens.


Description: Alexia Tarabotti, Lady Maccon, must answer a mystifying summons to Egypt from the world's oldest vampire. Meanwhile back in London, beta werewolf Professor Lyall and Biffy find investigating nefarious goings-on. 

Review: Timeless may not be the best book in the Parasol Protectorate series, but I really enjoyed the conclusion of this series. Not high brow or serious by any means, Timeless reminded me why I loved this series. Full of witty and tongue-in cheek British humor, a great setting, and characters that are more like friends you would love to take out to lunch or dinner. While I didn't really care that much for the plot where Alexia was concerned, I was a bit more involved with the murder investigation that Professor Lyall and Biffy unexpectedly find themselves in. There were a few new surprises which I didn't see coming, but the highlight of this book for me is the introduction of Prudence, the little darling toddler who stole the show. While I'm sorry to see Alexia and the gang go, I can't wait to read the spin off series of the same world featuring Prudence as a young adult.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language, allusions to sex scenes, and some violence. Recommended for teens and adults only.

If you like this book try: Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences by Philippa Ballantine, The Iron Wyrm Affair by Lilith Saintcrow, Steam and Sorcery by Cindy Spencer Pape.

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YA Minireviews: Immortal Rules, Jessica Rules the Dark Side, and Sisters Red

  I wasn't sure what to review today so I decided upon doing some mini YA reviews. Below are the reviews for Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa, Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce, and Jessica Rules the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey.

Description: Allison Sekemoto survives in the Fringe, the outermost circle of a vampire city, until she too becomes an immortal vampire. Forced to flee into the unknown, outside her city walls, she joins a ragged band of humans who are seeking a legend--a possible cure to the disease that killed off most of humankind and created the rabids, the mindless creatures who threaten humans and vampires alike.

Review: I picked Immortal Rules up right away when I read glowing reviews and then I hesitated in reading it when my expectations grew. I put it off a bit longer when I read not so great reviews of the book. Immortal Rules is an okay book with a decent plot, but I didn't get pulled in like some other readers. I couldn't really separate this book from all the other paranormals that are out there. For the most part balances the dystopian and paranormal romance tropes are well done, but they take a long time to build. Unfortunately, I wasn't patient enough for the story or the secret unfoldings in the plot to unveil, instead I would read large chunks, get bored, and put it down for several days. The book is broken down to four parts, but it is the second part where Allie makes the transition between human to vampire that actually held my interest and make me think I was being a bit too harsh with the book except then Allison's mysterious mentor who stole the spotlight and drew me into the story leaves fairly quickly in the book and for me that was the last straw as his absence slowed down the pace of the book to a mere crawl. Even the romantic interest was bland. The book could have easily been cut in half especially where Allie wanders in the woods for over 200 pgs. I ended up skimming most of the book just to get it done. Needless to say I won't be continuing this series.

Rating: 2 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language, strong violence, and a few disturbing images. Recommended for Grades 8 and up.

If you like this book try: Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan, When the Sea is Rising Red by Cat Hellisen, Peeps by Scott Westerfeld


Description (from Publisher): Scarlett March lives to hunt the Fenris--the werewolves that took her eye when she was defending her sister Rosie from a brutal attack. Armed with a razor-sharp hatchet and blood-red cloak, Scarlett is an expert at luring and slaying the wolves. She's determined to protect other young girls from a grisly death, and her raging heart will not rest until every single wolf is dead. Rosie March once felt her bond with her sister was unbreakable. Owing Scarlett her life, Rosie hunts ferociously alongside her. But even as more girls' bodies pile up in the city and the Fenris seem to be gaining power, Rosie dreams of a life beyond the wolves. She finds herself drawn to Silas, a young woodsman who is deadly with an ax and Scarlett's only friend--but does loving him mean betraying her sister and all that they've worked for?

Review: Jackson Pearce takes the well known fairy tale of Red Riding Hood as her basis for a new story about sisterhood, loyalty, and love. What I loved most about the book is how complex the March sister's relationship is, exploring both the good and bad sides through alternating points of view. I will say that I liked Scarlet's adult voice who is driven and has a set plan in life, but I also enjoyed the vulnerability and sweetness of Rosie too. There is a nice, slow building romance in Sisters Red and a pretty good plot. I now wished I had read this book before diving into Sweetly by the author. I'd definitely recommend reading this book if you're interested in fairy tale retellings.

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language, strong violence, and a few disturbing images. Recommended for Grades 8 and up.

If you like this book try: A Tale Dark and Grim by Adam Gidwitz, Bewitching by Alex Flinn, Sweetly by Jackson Pearce


Description: It's one thing to find out you're a vampire princess. It's a whole other thing to actually rule. Newly married Jessica Packwood is having a hard enough time feeling regal with her husband, Lucius, at her side. But when evidence in the murder of a powerful elder points to Lucius, sending him into solitary confinement, Jessica is suddenly on her own. Determined to clear her husband's name, Jessica launches into a full-scale investigation, but hallucinations and nightmares of betrayal keep getting in her way. Jessica knows that with no blood to drink, Lucius's time is running out. Can she figure out who the real killer is-and whom she can trust-before it's too late?

Review: The first Jessica book, Jessica's Guide to Dating the Dark Side, was a surprise find as it was funny and light. The second book, however, loses the charm of its predecessor. While there are a few good chuckles in the story, I found Jessica to be much more whiny and dense in this book. The plot wasn't all that exciting and it meanders. I also didn't care for how the book was structured by many short chapters that end abruptly only to be picked up by the next chapter (there are over 100 chapters in about 300 pages book). I definitely didn't enjoy this one as nearly as I liked the first one. I would skip this one and just read the first Jessica book instead.

Rating: 2 stars

Words of Caution: There is some language and reference to drug use. Recommended for strong Grade 7 readers and up.

If you like this book try: Team Human by Justine Larbalestier and Sarah Brennan, Drink, Slay, Love by Sarah Beth Durst

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YA Minireviews: Between and The New Phenomenon

 Today I have two mini-reviews of books that I received from the authors in exchange for an honest review.

Description (from Goodreads): It just figures that the love of Lindsey Water's life isn't alive at all, but the grim reaper, complete with a dimpled smile and Scottish accent. After transporting souls to heaven for the last 300 years, Aiden MacRae has all but given up on finding the one whose love will redeem him and allow him entry through the pearly gates. Torn between her growing attraction to Aiden and heaven's siren song, Lindsey must learn the hard way whether love really can transcend all boundaries.

Review: Between has a really cool premise about being torn between the afterlife and the present day. Being in the between, a place sandwiched in the middle of earth and heaven where new memories and a second chance of life could be made. I was really looking forward to meeting Aiden, the Scottish hottie grim reaper and curious to see where his and Lindsey's relationship goes. Unfortunately, the book left me unsatisfied and wanting more.
  Readers annoyed by insta-love would be completely frustrated with Between as there is a heavy dose of it in the story. Lindsey dies in a car wreck, is whisked away by Aiden to this "between" place on her way to heaven. After what seems like a brief 5 minute panic, she doesn't seem overly concerned about being dead. She's sad, sure, but not sad enough to miss the fact that Aiden is goregeous and lusts after him. Normally, I could handle insta-love but this was too fast for me. Another thing that annoyed me about Lindsey and Aiden's relationship is the inconsistency of chaste love. One minute Aiden refuses to touch Lindsey because she is still a virgin and in the next few scenes they are skinny dipping and getting hot and heavy. There wasn't really a development of their relationship at all to give us a better groundwork to how they work as a couple.
  Though we are given Aiden's history, which addressed an important and heavy concept that should have added complexity to his character, but unfortunately it came across a bit too heavy handed and preachy for me. I couldn't really feel sorry for Aiden at that point and it bothered me for much of th story.
  Despite these issues, I was still engaged in the book's plot. Just when I thought things were getting interesting, the book ended. It was as if there was a beginning of the story and its end with no middle. Overall, it was a decent read and I would recommend it to those who can't get enough of paranormal romances.

Rating: 2 stars

Words of Caution: There is strong sensuality in the book and a small non-descriptive sex scene. Recommended for strong Grade 8 readers and up.

If you like this book try: Hell Transporter by Cyndi Tefft, Pinelight by Jillian Perry, Forbidden by Megan Curd


Description (from Goodreads): Every teenager wants to fit in, and Christian Pearson is no different. He is a phenomenon on the athletic field and in the classroom, but a terrifying accident on a fishing trip with his grandfather changes Christian's life forever. As he enters his freshman year of high school, Christian hides a secret that he plans to take to his grave. When the Pearson family moved from the city to the sleepy town of Red Oak, Iowa, before his freshman year of high school, Christian hoped for a smooth transition to small town life. Being the new kid in school has been a blessing and a curse. Most of the boys in Christian's class view him as a threat, so Christian struggles to fit it, but as an outcast, his secret is safe. When three freshmen, all from the same family, start school a week late, Christian senses something different about these new students. He reaches out to "The Three" seeking some semblance of friendship in his new hometown. When "The Three" confront Christian about the secret he hides, Christian is faced with a huge problem. Will this secret cost Christian his friends, his family, his freedom, and even his life?

Review: I loved the concept behind The New Phenomenon, where child phenomenons had special powers that are developed at certain periods of their lifetime. The book, however, only touches on the idea superficially and left me wanting to know more about the kids and how their powers are created.
  For the most part I liked the characters, especially Christian who is a sweet, courteous, smart, and a great football player. Besides these traits and his love for S.E. Hinton's books, I didn't really connect to him. In fact a lot of the characters, who had the strong potential to be fascinating feel one dimension in The New Phenomenon. The book seemed to be more plot driven with some great moments of suspense and tension, however, the Raabe told more of the story rather than show it.   
  Raabe for the most part is successful in blending in the daily trouble of an adolescent (i.e. bullying, peer pressure, girl troubles) with the touch of paranormal/science fiction bent to it. There was a bit of a romance, which I thought was cute and sprung up a bit too quickly for me, but not enough to derail male readers into reading this book. I did find it to be a fast read and for the most part enjoyed it. Raabe has the potential to create a really great story here. If there was a little more attention given to the characters and fleshing out of the concept of superpowers, this book would have soared.

Rating: 2 stars

Words of Caution: There is a teen party where underage drinking takes place.

If you like this book try: Hidden Talents by David Lubar, Full Tilt by Neal Shusterman, Code Orange by Caroline B. Cooney

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