Sunday, December 20, 2009

The Missing Ink (Tattoo Shop Mystery #1) by Karen E. Olson

The Missing Ink (Tattoo Shop Mystery #1) The Missing Ink by Karen E. Olson


Murder leaves a mark

Brett Kavanaugh is a tattoo artist and owner of an elite tattoo parlor in Las V egas. When a girl makes an appointment for a tattoo of the name of her fiancĂ© embedded in a heart, Brett takes the job but the girl never shows. The next thing Brett knows, the police are looking for her client, and the name she wanted on the tattoo isn’t her fiancĂ©’s...



My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Fun new series. I liked the main character. She is spunky and fun. The mystery kept me guessing to the end. The book could have been written a little better, but it is a series that I intend to continue with.

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The War with Grandpa by Robert Kimmel Smith

The War with Grandpa (Yearling) The War with Grandpa by Robert Kimmel Smith


Peter thinks the only way he can reclaim his room is by declaring war on his grandfather.

Dorothy Canfield Fisher Award, William Allen White Award, Tennessee Children's Choice Book Award, Parents' Choice Award, An IRA-CBC Children's Choice, Mark Twain Award, Young Hoosier Award, South Carolina Children's Book Award, Pacific Northwest Library Association Young Reader's Choice Award, Georgia Children's Book Award.



My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Reading for my 5th grade Literacy Circle

~~

Totally enjoyed this book. It was funny, cute and had a great message.

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Monday, December 14, 2009

Strange Brew by P.N. Elrod (Editor / Contributor)

Strange Brew Strange Brew by P.N. Elrod


Today’s hottest urban fantasy authors come together in this delicious brew that crackles and boils over with tales of powerful witches and dark magic!

In Charlaine Harris’ “Bacon,” a beautiful vampire joins forces with a witch from an ancient line to find out who killed her beloved husband. In “Seeing Eye” by Patricia Briggs, a blind witch helps sexy werewolf Tom Franklin find his missing brother—and helps him in more ways than either of them ever suspected. And in Jim Butcher’s “Last Call,” wizard Harry Dresden takes on the darkest of dark powers—the ones who dare to mess with this favorite beer.

For anyone who’s ever wondered what lies beyond the limits of reality, who’s imagined the secret spaces where witches wield fearsome magic, come and drink deep. Let yourself fall under the spell of this bewitching collection!



My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Very enjoyable read. Some old favorite authors as well as an introduction to some new ones for me.

My 2 least favorite stories were Charlaine Harris's Bacon and PN Elrod's Hecate's Golden Eye. The rest of the stories were quite enjoyable.

I will add one warning. If you have any desire to read the 'Cin Craven' series by Jenna Maclaine, you may want to read them before reading the short story included in this book -- 'Dark Sins'.


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Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Murder Makes Waves (Southern Sisters Mysteries) by Anne George

Murder Makes Waves (Southern Sisters Mysteries) Murder Makes Waves by Anne George


Those hilarious southern sisters, who prove that sibling rivalry never ends, are heading for a vacation at the beach. Mary Alice's flamboyant behavior aside, serious, sensible Patricia Anne looks forward to relaxing at her sister's beachfront condo in Destin, Florida, so she kisses her ever-loving spouse Fred good-bye, reminds him to water the plants and feed the dog, and the girls head south for some fun in the sun.

Mary Alice loses no time in making the acquaintance of just about everyone in sight, so watching the sun go down on the beautiful shores of the Gulf of Mexico is a welcome respite as far as Patricia Anne is concerned. . .until a dead body washes up in the waves and the victim turns out to be one of Mary Alice's newfound friends. With no witnesses t the crime except a few great blue herons, the sisters have no choice but to bypass the clueless police and follow their own instinct to find the killer. Before long they're on a murky trail of dirty real-estate deals, giant turtle habitats, and a sea of evidence pointing to a mammoth motive for murderer.



My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another great adventure in the Southern Sisters Mysteries.

When Patricia Anne and Mary Alice go on an adventure to the Florida Panhandle they find themselves in the middle of another murder mystery. I love the interaction between these two characters and the other characters we see throughout the series.


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Saturday, November 7, 2009

The Spy Who Haunted Me by Simon R. Green

The Spy Who Haunted Me The Spy Who Haunted Me by Simon R. Green


The legendary Independent Agent is dying ...so who will inherit his hoard of secret information and fabulous secrets? For most of the last century, he was the greatest spy in the world, but now The Independent Agent is retiring, he has decided on one last great game - the six greatest spies in the world today must work together - and compete against each other - to solve the six greatest mysteries in the world. Whoever wins the game will also win The Agent's priceless treasure-trove of information. Eddie Drood, aka Shaman Bond, has been invited to join the great game, and of course he can't say no, especially when he learns what the mysteries are - everything from the Tunguska Incident to the Philadelphia Experiment, to whatever the hell it was really happened at Roswell. But that means he needs to survive working alongside old friends and old enemies ...especially when the spies start dying, one by one ...And one of them is going to haunt him ...for the rest of his life. THE SPY WHO HAUNTED ME is the third of the Secret Histories: a riveting roller-coaster ride through the dark side.



My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoy this series. We got to meet some new characters, including Walker, who comes from Green's Nightside series.

The story was good, the characters were fun, but the ending was too abrupt for me.

I do however very much look forward to the next in the series.


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Saturday, October 31, 2009

Worth by A. LaFaye

Worth Worth by A. LaFaye


Before the accident Nathaniel's life seemed pretty good. His help around the farm made his father proud. But now, with a busted leg, Nathaniel can't do farmwork anymore, so his father adopts another son through the Orphan Train. Feeling replaced and useless, Nathaniel attends school for the first time. Meanwhile, sturdy and strong John is able to do the work that earns Pa's attention.

But the truth is, John Worth has his own set of troubles. He is treated more like a servant than a son. Kept awake at night by nightmares of his family's death, he remembers having a pa who took pride in him. But now he has no one, until a community battle and a special book reveal a potential friend -- and a chance for understanding.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A good read. When the main character is injured in a farming accident he feels like he is less of a son to his father. When his father brings in an orphan boy to help on the farm, he feels like he is being replaced. The book explores how he deals with the pain and humiliation that he feels with being crippled and his changing relationship with the orphan boy.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

The Conqueror Worms by Brian Keene

The Conqueror Worms The Conqueror Worms by Brian Keene


One day the rain just didn’t stop. As the flood waters slowly rose and coastal cities and towns disappeared, some people believed it was the end of the world. Maybe they were right. But the water wasn’t the worst part. Even more terrifying was what the soaking rains drove up from beneath the earth -- unimaginable creatures, writhing, burrowing...and devouring all in their path. What hope does an already-devastated mankind have against...the Conqueror Worms?



My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. When I first got the book and saw the cheesy cover with the giant earthworms I thought "Give me a break." But I have to say that I really enjoyed this book. I have always loved Post Apocalyptic books so that probably helped. I loved the main character. I enjoyed how the story changed in the middle and we go to see another point of view and I even liked the way that the book ended, although normally I would be upset that we are left wondering.

All in all a good read. I am looking forward to more of Brian Keene's books in the future.

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Saturday, October 17, 2009

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

Tuck Everlasting Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt


Imagine coming upon a fountain of youth in a forest. To live forever--isn't that everyone's ideal? For the Tuck family, eternal life is a reality, but their reaction to their fate is surprising. Award winner Natalie Babbitt (Knee-Knock Rise, The Search for Delicious) outdoes herself in this sensitive, moving adventure in which 10-year-old Winnie Foster is kidnapped, finds herself helping a murderer out of jail, and is eventually offered the ultimate gift--but doesn't know whether to accept it. Babbitt asks profound questions about the meaning of life and death, and leaves the reader with a greater appreciation for the perfect cycle of nature. Intense and powerful, exciting and poignant, Tuck Everlasting will last forever--in the reader's imagination. An ALA Notable Book.



My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a very enjoyable book that asks a thought provoking question. Would you choose to be immortal if you were given the chance?

I enjoyed meeting the Tucks and Winnie Foster.


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Monday, October 12, 2009

Blow Me Down by Katie MacAlister

Blow Me Down Blow Me Down by Katie MacAlister


In the Internet game of "Buckling Swashes," two die-hard enemies find themselves comrades at arms against a merciless rival, and discover that-on the virtual high seas and in real life-love can tame the most fearsome of pirates.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a fun read!

When Amy Stewart's teenage daughter challenges her to add some fun to her rather structured life by trying out a new VR game called Buckling Swashes, Amy inadvertently gets caught up in a struggle between the games creator and a disgruntled ex-employee. Stuck in the game with only a few other human players Amy must find her inner pirate and figure out how to get herself out of the game. What she didn't count on was falling for Black Corbin, the game's creator. As they join forces to figure out which character is actually Paul, the disgruntled employee, they also have to figure out a way to save the VR world that they are trapped in.


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Saturday, October 10, 2009

A Little Magic by Nora Roberts

A Little Magic A Little Magic by Nora Roberts

Contains:
Spellbound (Once Upon A Castle - 1998)
Under a spell cast thousands of years ago, photographer Colin Farrell is haunted by dreams of Irish lass Bryna Torrance.

Ever After (Once Upon A Star - 1999)
Allena buys an enchanted pendant and is transported to a mysterious island where she meets Conal, who is suspicious of all women.

In Dreams (Once Upon A Dream - 2000)
During a trip to Ireland, Kayleen Brennan visits a castle where she meets Flynn, a man cursed to live forever with only his dreams.


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
My first sampling of Nora Roberts (I know I live under a rock). The stories in this collection were sweet, quick romances. I enjoyed the first 2 stories the most -- Spellbound & Everafter. The third story - In Dreams - was my least favorite. The male lead was too arrogant and the story was a little too far fetched for me. I enjoyed the little touches of magic thrown in and do look forward to reading more of Roberts books.

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Saturday, October 3, 2009

The Geographer's Library by Jon Fasman

The Geographer's Library The Geographer's Library by Jon Fasman


The literary history suspense novel has long been a genre appreciated by a small subset of general readers. It is currently enjoying a new vogue and a wider readership with the publication of such novels as The Da Vinci Code, The Rule of Four, and Codex. What these books have in common, and what The Geographer's Library can also claim, is a set of characters in the here and now grappling with questions about things that went on a very long time ago. Another characteristic is the unearthing or explanation of objects of great value. The trick is to weave these two realities together in a compelling way, one that will keep the reader involved in both stories.

Jon Fasman has taken a big chance with The Geographer's Library, his debut novel, setting out a complicated scenario in which a collection of priceless objects is stolen from the titular library and, eventually, scattered and re-collected a thousand years later--with very bad results for the final collector. The geographer is a real person, Al-Idrisi, a Spanish-Muslim philosopher, cartographer, linguist, and scholar who served in the court of King Roger of Sicily in Palermo in the year 1154. For the most part, Fasman's risk pays off, although there is a lot of meandering before we finally get to the final revelation.

The "wraparound" story is about a young journalist, Paul Tomm, who sets out to write a simple obituary about a professor who died in his office at Paul's Alma Mater. The man is Jaan Puhapaev, an Estonian perhaps, who is a terrible teacher, fires his gun out his office window twice, is odd, unavailable, and reclusive and yet is allowed to stay on for unknown reasons. He also collects only $1.00 a year in salary and has no other visible means of support. The core narrative is a description of the provenance and travels of each of the 15 objects--some or all of which may hold the secret of eternal life--stolen from Al-Idrisi.

A professor friend of Paul's, a policemen and a curious editor all get an investigation rolling regarding what really happened to Jaan, who is he, and is he perhaps much, much older than they think? Paul meets and falls for a neighbor and putative friend of Jaan's, a music teacher named Hannah Rowe, which moves the information curve upward. This is the least believable part of the story: it's easier to accept the alchemical power of the Emerald Tablet of Hermes than Hannah. That said, Fasman does bring it all home at the end with an expository chapter and two letters.


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This book was okay. It was interesting enough to keep me reading, but nothing more. The back and forth in history ruined it for me. I was more into the mystery and wanted to know more about the objects and how they were used. I felt that we were left hanging on that part of the story.

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Saturday, September 19, 2009

Murder Runs in the Family: A Southern Sisters Mystery #3 by Anne George

Murder Runs in the Family: A Southern Sisters Mystery Murder Runs in the Family: A Southern Sisters Mystery by Anne George


Mary Alice has spared nothing for her only daughter's wedding -- from seventy-five yards of bridal train to gourmet food for over three hundred guests and enough glittering elegance to make Mary Alice think about finding herself a fourth rich husband to pay for it all.

Practical Patricia Anne has put away her aunt-of-the-bride blue chiffon and settled back into domesticity when fun-loving Mary Alice calls to say they have a post-wedding date with a genealogist from the groom's side of the family. Lunch is a fascinating lesson on the hazards of finding dirty linens in ancestral boudoirs that ends abruptly when their guest scurries off with the local judge, leaving the sisters with their mouths open -- and finishing their luncheon companion's cheesecake -- when the police arrive.

Their mysterious guest has taken a plunge from the ninth floor of the courthouse building -- an apparent suicide. But given the scandals a nosy genealogist might have uncovered, the sisters are betting that some proud Southern family is making sure their shameful secrets stay buried. . .along with anyone who tries to dig them up.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another wonderful book in the Southern Sisters Mystery series. This series is so much fun to read. The relationship between Mouse and Sister is hilarious and touching. In this book we get to meet more of the extended family which of course is fun. A good mystery and a wonderfully entertaining read.

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Saturday, August 29, 2009

Sinister Sudoku: A Sudoku Mystery #3 by Kaye Morgan

Sinister Sudoku: A Sudoku Mystery Sinister Sudoku: A Sudoku Mystery by Kaye Morgan


Sudoku maven Liza Kelly is conducting classes in a penitentiary, of all places. One of her best students is released, but his freedom doesn't last long. He's found dead, leaving his own puzzle for Liza to solve to find the killer, before her number is up.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was an okay read. This is a mystery series that I can live with or without. The mysteries are okay, the outcome is okay. The characters are okay. I find the rivalry between the two guys who like Liza to be juvenile. Some of the clues are very obvious. This was okay for a quick read but nothing spectacular.

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Saturday, August 15, 2009

Murder on a Bad Hair Day: A Southern Sisters Mystery #2 by Anne George

Murder on a Bad Hair Day: A Southern Sisters Mystery Murder on a Bad Hair Day: A Southern Sisters Mystery by Anne George


Murder on a Bad Hair Day

It's hard to believe practical, petite ex-schoolteacher Patricia Anne and amiable, ample-bodied, and outrageous Mary Alice are sisters, yet sibling rivalry has survived decades of good-natured disagreement about everything from husbands to hair color. No sooner do the Southern sisters discover a common interest in some local art, when they're arguing the artistic merits of some well-coiffured heads at a gallery opening. A few hours later, one of those pretty ladies ends up dead -- with not a hair out of place. The other shows up on Patricia Anne's doorstep dazed, disheveled, and telling a wild tale of a narrow escape from some deadly cuts. Now the sisters are once again combing for clues to catch a killer with a bizarre style in art -- and murder.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I adore these Southern Sisters Mysteries. The main characters are fantastic and the storylines keep you guessing. I have to admit I did not figure this one out. Quick, fun reads that I recommend to all cozy mystery fans!

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Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Dead and Gone (Sookie Stackhouse, #9) by Charlaine Harris

Dead and Gone (Sookie Stackhouse, #9) Dead and Gone by Charlaine Harris

Except for Sookie Stackhouse, folks in Bon Temps, Louisiana, know little about vamps—and nothing about weres.

Until now. The weres and shifters have finally decided to reveal their existence to the ordinary world. At first all goes well. Then the mutilated body of a were-panther is found near the bar where Sookie works—and she feels compelled to discover who, human or otherwise, did it.

But there’s a far greater danger threatening Bon Temps. A race of unhuman beings—older, more powerful, and more secretive than vampires or werewolves—is preparing for war. And Sookie finds herself an all-too human pawn in their battle.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another great chapter in the life of Sookie Stackhouse. I have to say that I feel so sorry for Sookie sometimes. It just seems like she can not get a break. This was a great read with an action packed and sad ending. So much happened in the last chapter of the book that was heartbreaking. I can not imagine what will happen in the next book. A must read for all Sookie fans.

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Monday, August 10, 2009

The Perfect Princess (The Dragon Nimbus #2) by Irene Radford

The Perfect Princess (The Dragon Nimbus #2) The Perfect Princess by Irene Radford

The throne of Prince Darville is threatened by rogue magicians who try to take advantage when his dragon protectors depart, and the prince realizes that he and his bride are threatened by dark magic that threatens his kingdom and their lives.


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Loved this second book in the Dragon Nimbus series. The characters are much more fully developed, the storyline runs much smoother than the first book, and the plot was a great read. I enjoyed getting to know Yaakke as he seems to be the focus of the next book in the series. Looking forward to reading more in this series as well as other series that this author has written.

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Thursday, August 6, 2009

The Glass Dragon (The Dragon Nimbus #1) by Irene Radford

The Glass Dragon (The Dragon Nimbus #1) The Glass Dragon by Irene Radford


Finding the much-needed magic in their world dwindling with the depopulation of dragons, journeyman wizard Jaylor and witchwoman Brevelan begin a quest to discover who is destroying the dragons and why.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a good read. The characters were not as well developed as they could have been but the storyline was interesting enough to keep me reading. I will read the next in the series and also look into picking up some of the authors other books as well.

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Monday, August 3, 2009

Murder on a Girls' Night Out: A Southern Sisters Mystery #1 by Anne George

Murder on a Girls' Night Out: A Southern Sisters Mystery Murder on a Girls' Night Out: A Southern Sisters Mystery by Anne George


A Different Kind of Sister Act

Patricia Anne -- "Mouse" -- is respectful, respectable, and demure, a perfect example of genteel Southern womanhood. Mary Alice -- "Sister" -- is big, brassy, flamboyant, and bold. Together they have a knack for finding themselves in the center of some of Birmingham's most unfortunate unpleasantness.

Country Western is red hot these days, so overimpulsive Mary Alice thinks it makes perfect sense to buy the Skoot 'n' Boot bar -- since that's where the many-times-divorced "Sister" and her boyfriend du jour like to hang out anyway. Sensible retired schoolteacher Patricia Anne is inclined to disagree -- especially when they find a strangled and stabbed dead body dangling in the pub's wishing well. The sheriff has some questions for Mouse and her sister Sister, who were the last people, besides the murderer, of course, to see the ill-fated victim alive. And they had better come up with some answers soon -- because a killer with unfinished business has begun sending them some mighty threatening messages...


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a wonderfully fun and quick cozy mystery. Love the main characters, Patricia Anne and her sister Mary Alice. Really look forward to reading more of the 'Southern Sister' mysteries and getting to know them better. I enjoyed the simple humor that the author used. Found myself laughing out loud on several occasions. The solution to the mystery was a little rushed for me, but overall a wonderful read.

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Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Pride (Shifters, #3) by Rachel Vincent

Pride (Shifters, #3) Pride by Rachel Vincent

I'm on trial for my life. Falsely accused of infecting my human ex-boyfriend—and killing him to cover up the crime. Infecting a human is one of three capital offenses recognized by the Pride—along with murder and disclosure of our existence to a human. I'm two for three. A goner. Now we've discovered a rogue stray terrorizing the mountainside, hunting a wild teenage tabbycat. It's up to us to find and stop him before a human discovers us. With my lover Marc's help, I think I can protect the vulnerable girl from both the ambitious rogue and the scheming of the territorial council. If I survive my own trial…


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Love this series. Faythe is on trial for her life, accused of infecting and then murdering her human ex-boyfriend. Seems that a couple of the Alpha's on the Tribunal determining her fate have a personal vendetta against her and she could be facing the death penalty.

When a couple of hikers go missing in the area and the Pride picks up scents of strays they are forced to take action. Finding a stray tabby was not in the plan, especially one who does not seem to know what she is. Faythe is the only one who can earn the tabby's trust and find out what is going on which of course puts her right in the middle of the danger, again.

Can not wait to get my hands on the next book in the series.


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Monday, July 27, 2009

Dark Advent by Brian Hodge

Dark Advent Dark Advent by Brian Hodge

In a deserted midwestern department store, a few people banded together for survival. But beyond their temporary haven, an evil was stirring, an evil that preyed upon human weakness for its own twisted ends.



My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a good read. I have pretty much been glued to it for the last 2 days cause I did not want to put it down. A lot of similarities in this book to 'The Stand' by Stephen King, but I am pretty sure that this book came out a couple months before King's book based on the copyright dates.

This is pretty much the typical, apocalyptic plague wipes out most of humanity leaving groups of good and groups of evil battling each other for survival, book. The characters are very well developed. The storyline keeps you wanting to read and the ending is a bit of a surprise. I would highly recommend this to any fans of 'The Stand' or ' Swan Song'.


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Saturday, July 25, 2009

Murder By Numbers: A Sudoku Mystery #2 by Kaye Morgan

Murder By Numbers: A Sudoku Mystery Murder By Numbers: A Sudoku Mystery by Kaye Morgan


Puzzle master Liza Kelly must sharpen her pencil-and her wits-to solve a calculated killing. Second in the Sudoku mystery series--from the author of Death by Sudoku.

Taking on the role of publicist puts Liza in the center of the action on the production of the film Counterfeit, where inflated egos and artistic temperaments clash both on set and off. But when one of the film's major players is found dead, Sudoku Maven Liza realizes that the numbers don't quite add up. Now it's up to her to investigate the cast and crew in order to determine just who wrote this death scene.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I did not enjoy this book as much as I did the first book in the series. The mystery in this one really had nothing to do with Soduko, and in itself was not that interesting. Liza's thought process in trying to figure out who done it was rather drawn out and repetitive. Will continue with the series to see how the next book is, but was not overly impressed with this one.

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Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Death by Sudoku: A Sudoku Mystery (Sudoku Mysteries) by Kaye Morgan

Death by Sudoku: A Sudoku Mystery (Sudoku Mysteries) Death by Sudoku: A Sudoku Mystery by Kaye Morgan

Maiden's Bay is a small, scenic town on the Oregon Coast where citizens get their number fix thanks to Liza Kelly-Sudoku Maven with the Oregon Daily. Her challenging puzzles sharpen the mind, and her deductive skills unravel even the most enigmatic clues.

Liza enters a Sudoku tournament in which her old friend and competitor turns up dead. Now, she must think outside the boxes to find a murderer.


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An enjoyable first book in a the cozy Sudoku Mystery series. The main character is likable as are the supporting characters. I enjoyed the coded Sudoku puzzles part of the mystery and overall it was a quick fun read. I like the two men in Liza's life. Not sure which I would choose for her but look forward to getting to know them both a little more. Love Mrs. H, Liza's matchmaking next door neighbor. Looking forward to reading #2 to see where the author goes with the story.
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Sunday, July 19, 2009

Deathwish (Cal Leandros, Book 4) by Rob Thurman

Deathwish (Cal Leandros, Book 4) Deathwish by Rob Thurman


In a nightmarish new york city, life is there for the taking...

Half-human Cal Leandros and his brother Niko are hired by the vampire Seamus to find out who has been following him—until Seamus turns up dead (or un-undead). Worse still is the return of Cal’s nightmarish family, the Auphe. The last time Cal and Niko faced them, they were almost wiped out. Now, the Auphe want revenge. But first, they’ll destroy everything Cal holds dear...


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another enjoyable story about Cal & Niko. The Auphe who managed to survive their last encounter with Cal & Niko are back and bent on revenge. They have promised to kill everyone that Cal cares about and only then deal with Cal himself. We also meet Cherish, Promise's wayward daughter (who btw Niko knew nothing about). Needless to say she is NOT a chip off the old block.
I do have a complaint. I very much disliked how the author jumped back and forth between Nik and Cal narrating the book. Each chapter would change from one to the other and I did not like it. If anything I think it took away from the story since we got a lot of introspection from each character as well as the story.
Looking forward to the next chapter in the lives of Nik & Cal.
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Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Lover Enshrined (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #6) by J.R. Ward

Lover Enshrined (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #6) Lover Enshrined by J.R. Ward


In this "frighteningly addictive" paranormal romance saga, there's a war raging between vampires and their slayers. Here are the stories of a secret band of brothers like no other--six vampire warriors, defenders of their race. And now a dutiful twin must choose between two lives...

Fiercely loyal to the Black Dagger Brotherhood, Phury has sacrificed himself for the good of the race, becoming the male responsible for keeping the Brotherhood's bloodlines alive. As Primale of the Chosen, he is obligated to father the sons and daughters who will ensure that the traditions of the race survive, and that there are warriors to fight those who want all vampires extinguished.

As his first mate, the Chosen Cormia wants to win not only his body but his heart for herself. She is drawn to the noble responsibility behind the emotionally scarred male. But Phury has never allowed himself to know pleasure or joy. As the war with the Lessening Society grows grim, tragedy looms over the Brotherhood's mansion, and Phury must decide between duty and love...


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another great book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series.
It has been a year since I read the last book and I don't remember Phury being so messed up. But it was wonderful to get to know him better. Even more so with this book was the fact that so many things were happening in the whole Brotherhood story. It really is like stepping into and immersing yourself in a whole new world. I love getting to know the boys better (John, Blay and Qhuinn). I liked finding out more about Rhev and I love where the books are going. Can not wait to get my hands on the next one. I hope that JR Ward keeps the Brotherhood around for a long long time. I can not imagine not having another book to look forward to.
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Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Fat Kid Rules the World by K.L. Going

Fat Kid Rules the World Fat Kid Rules the World by K.L. Going

Troy Billings is seventeen, 296 pounds, friendless, utterly miserable, and about to step off a New York subway platform in front of an oncoming train. Until he meets Curt MacCrae, an emaciated, semi-homeless, high school dropout guitar genius, the stuff of which Lower East Side punk rock legends are made. Never mind that Troy's dad thinks Curt's a drug addict and Troy's brother thinks Troy's the biggest (literally) loser in Manhattan. Soon, Curt's recruited Troy as his new drummer—even though Troy can't play the drums. Together, Curt and Troy will change the world of punk, and Troy's own life, forever.


My review


rating: 4 of 5 stars
Good read. Realistic fiction with a look into the world of teens who do not fit in or conform to what society accepts as the norm. Instead of being about how society sees these kids it is more about how the kids see themselves and how they think society sees them. I love the way the author created the main characters of Troy and Curt and the humor that she used to write about them. I love the way that Troy evolves after becoming friends with Curt and learns to accept himself for who he is. Abrupt ending, but the possibilities are there!!
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Monday, July 6, 2009

The Lost by Jack Ketchum

The Lost The Lost by Jack Ketchum


It was the summer of 1965. Ray, Tim, and Jennifer were just three teenage friends hanging out in the campgrounds, drinking a little. But Tim and Jennifer didn't know what their friend Ray had in mind. And if they'd known, they wouldn't have thought he was serious. Then they saw what he did to the two girls at the neighboring campsite--and knew he was dead serious.

Four years later, the 60s were drawing to a close. No one ever charged Ray with the murders in the campgrounds, but there was one cop determined to make him pay. Ray figured he was in the clear. Tim and Jennifer thought the worst was behind them, that the horrors were all in the past. They were wrong. The worst was yet to come.

My review


rating: 3 of 5 stars
This was an okay read. I really would not classify it as horror, even though that is what it says on the spine. It is your basic murder story. Ray Pye murders a couple of teenage girls and gets away with it. Two cops know he did it but can not find the evidence they need to convict him for it. Four years later we get a glimpse into the life of Ray, see the cops push him on the murder, and see him break. The end is pretty much the only really horrific action of the book and it was tame compared to a lot now days. I look forward to reading some of Ketchum's other books, but this was probably not a great introduction to his work.
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Friday, July 3, 2009

The Rumpelstiltskin Problem by Vivian Vande Velde

The Rumpelstiltskin Problem The Rumpelstiltskin Problem by Vivian Vande Velde

What was with that bizarre fairy tale Rumpelstiltskin? Why would a miller claim that his daughter can spin straw into gold? Why would the king believe him? And why would a odd little man that can spin straw into gold do so in exchange for a tiny gold ring? The story is just silly. In an attempt to make sense of it all, Vivian Vande Velde retells this wayward fairy tale, providing six alternative takes on the classic account. All six are woven into rich chronicles - all of which are far more intriguing and revealing than the original tale.


My review


rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a cute book with 6 different versions of the classic fairy tale 'Rumpelstiltskin'. The only version that I really did not care much for was the 1st one - 'A fairy tale in bad taste' - about a troll named Rumpelstiltskin who wanted to eat a human baby. My favorites were the 2nd story - Straw Into Gold & the last story - As good as gold. I really enjoyed the author's note at the beginning of the book explaining why she did not like the original version of the story.


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Thursday, July 2, 2009

Growing Wings by Laurel Winter

Growing Wings (Firebird) Growing Wings by Laurel Winter


When 11-year-old Linnet discovers she is growing wings, her bewilderment is confounded by her mother's obvious distress. As it turns out, her mother also grew wings on the cusp of adolescence, only to have them cut off by her mother. Linnet's life seems to speed up rapidly after her shocking discovery; she soon finds herself alone on her estranged grandmother's doorstep, and shortly thereafter, at a type of secret residence for winged people like herself. As she tries to adapt to a life she never expected, Linnet struggles with desires common to anyone who has ever wanted desperately to fit in, while simultaneously seeking to embrace uniqueness.

This unusual novel will strike a chord with young readers who long to both blend in and stand out. Linnet is a sensitive, strong, fallible girl, easy to relate to (in spite of her unusual physical traits). Her adventures as she tries to learn how to fly (just having wings isn't enough--it takes hard work and practice), make friends, find her mother, and, with her winged community, avoid being noticed by the media, make for an entirely new kind of science fiction-fantasy story--one that soars. (Ages 9 to 12) --Emilie Coulter

My review


rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is an enjoyable story about a young girl, Linnet, who suddenly starts to sprout wings. She finds out that her mother also had wings when she was young, but they had been cut off by her mother, making her a 'cutwing'. When the Linnet begins to quesiton her mother it is more than her mother can take and she takes Linnet on a journey that ends up at a hideaway in the mountains where other winged people, as well as other cutwings, are living in seclusion. Here Linnet explores her newly grown wings as she experiments with flying and tries to deal with the impact that the wings have on her life and her future.
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Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Merry Meet (Circle of Three, 2) by Isobel Bird

Circle of Three #2: Merry Meet (Circle of Three, 2) Circle of Three #2: Merry Meet by Isobel Bird


Joined together hand in hand our circle gathers round, to work our magic, weave the web, and dance on sacred ground. By the goddess we are called, witch to witch and friend to friend, to merry meet, and merry part, and merry meet again.

A book of spells brought Kate, Cooper, and Annie together. The three are coompelled to learn more, and the door is opened with the stirring ritual of the Vernal Equinox.


My review


rating: 3 of 5 stars
Once again I enjoyed the introduction to Wicca with this book, but the personal problems struggles with the main character did not interest me. I have to keep reminding myself that the main character is a 15 year old girl, which excuses her for some of her more selfish, self-centered behavior.

I will probably read a couple more in the series just to see how it goes. I am also going to encourage my 15 year old dd to read the first couple books as they do offer a nice introduction into what Wicca is and she has recently asked questions about Wicca.

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Saturday, June 27, 2009

Circle of Three #1: So Mote It Be (Circle of Three, 1) by Isobel Bird

Circle of Three #1: So Mote It Be (Circle of Three, 1) Circle of Three #1: So Mote It Be by Isobel Bird


Are magical powers real? Can you use them to get good grades or a date with the cutest guy at school? Sophomore Kate Morgan isn't sure, but she's willing to find out. After bringing home some books on the Salem witch trials for a research project, Kate discovers a volume she doesn't remember checking out--Spells and Charms for the Modern Witch. Intrigued, she thinks she has found a quick fix for her Valentine's Day datelessness. But after hastily casting a love spell, Kate realizes she has set a universal force in motion that not only nets her intended hottie, but every guy at school. Suddenly all the boys at Beecher Falls High have a crush on Kate. Desperate to end the curse that makes all guys love her--and consequently, all girls hate her--Kate finds a way to uncover other wannabe teen witches. But shy scholar Annie Crandall and raging riot grrrl Cooper Rivers aren't sure that they want to be a part of Kate's case of bad karma. Unless she can convince them to join her, Kate may be doomed to suffer from uncontrollable popularity forever!

My review


rating: 3 of 5 stars
I am kind of on the fence with this book. While I enjoyed the Wicca aspect of the book and the girl's introduction to magic, I was a little put off by all of the high school drama. Of course the book is a teen book written about a group of 10th grade girls who stumble across a book of spells and decide to experiment with magic. There is a lot of teen drama in the book -- cliques, friends, boys, grades, etc. We all remember those days. lol Having a 15 year old daughter made it a little more interesting to read as I could see a lot of what was in the book in things she talks about from school.

Anyway the book was okay and I intend to read the next in the series before I decide if I want to continue with the series or not.

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Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Bestial by Ray Garton

Bestial (Leisure Fiction) Bestial by Ray Garton


Something very strange is happening in the coastal California town of Big Rock. Several residents have died in unexplained, particularly brutal ways, many torn apart in animal attacks. And there's always that eerie howling late at night....


You might think there's a werewolf in town. But you'd be wrong. It's not just one werewolf, but the whole that's gradually transforming. Bit by bit, as the infection spreads, the werewolves are becoming more and more powerful. In fact, humans may soon be the minority, mere prey for their hungry neighbors. Is it too late for the humans to fight back? Did they ever have a chance from the start?

My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
As much as I enjoyed 'Ravenous' it was just the appetizer for Bestial. What a great read. I so enjoy Garton's writing and his take on the supernatural. This book was less about the blood and gore and more about the story of what happens to Big Rock when it is invaded by werewolves. Loved the fact that some of the main characters from this book are the Private Investigators from 'Night Life' I am looking forward to more of their adventures in future books (at least that is where I hope that Garton is going with them.)

Excellent read and highly recommended!

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Sunday, June 21, 2009

Ravenous by Ray Garton

Ravenous (Leisure Fiction) Ravenous by Ray Garton


From Publishers Weekly
A serial rapist is on the loose in the sleepy California town of Big Rock, and sheriff Farrell Hurley's secretary is the latest victim. When a self-proclaimed werewolf hunter named Daniel Fargo comes into town claiming that Big Rock has an infestation of the creatures, Hurley thinks the man is insane, until the eviscerated corpses and attacks by large animals start in earnest. For Garton, lycanthropy is an STD, spread mostly through rape, that runs rampant through a small town fraught with affairs and intrigues. His werewolf is a terrifying creature: not a remorseful, helpless cursed human but a homicidal beast driven by a dual urge to breed and feed. Hurley is a sheriff to root for, and Garton's well-paced horror novel reworks the werewolf myth to great effect.


My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
Great read. It is really nice to read a werewolf book that is not a romance, but classic horror.

I really enjoy Garton's writing and his take on the supernatural. Highly recommend this to horror fans.

Looking forward to reading the sequel 'Bestial'.


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Friday, June 19, 2009

The Lost Ones (The Veil, #3) by Christopher Golden

The Lost Ones (The Veil, #3) The Lost Ones by Christopher Golden


Bestselling author Christopher Golden brings his epic, innovative trilogy, the Veil, to an astonishing conclusion as the mythic realm of heroes and monsters becomes the site of humanity’s last—and greatest—showdown.

In the world of the legendary, every myth and folktale is real. That is what Oliver Bascombe learned on the other side of the Veil, where humanity's legends have hidden away for centuries. But even legends have legends, and Oliver has learned of a prophecy that many believe he and his sister, Collette, have come to the Two Kingdoms to fulfill. Before they can discover the truth, the Bascombe siblings must help to stop an apocalyptic war that threatens to destroy the Two Kingdoms, unravel a conspiracy, and prevent a powerful sorcerer from severing the world of humans from the realm of the legendary forever.

But first Oliver will have to plot an escape from an impregnable palace dungeon where he and his allies have been imprisoned . . . for regicide.

As old heroes and friends ally themselves for one last battle, even older enemies stand arrayed against them. Is humanity ready to face its legends head-on? For Oliver Bascombe, the price may be dearer than even he could ever imagine.

My review


rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a good ending to the trilogy. Most of the book is about the war between the Borderkind/Legends and the Atlanteans. The gathering of forces and actual battle. Oliver and Collette also come into their magical abilities and see themselves for the legend-born that they are. All in all a satisfying end.

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Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Carpe Corpus (The Morganville Vampires, #6) by Rachel Caine

Carpe Corpus (The Morganville Vampires, #6) Carpe Corpus by Rachel Caine

In the small college town of Morganville, vampires and humans lived in (relative) peace—until all the rules got rewritten when the evil vampire Bishop arrived, looking for the lost book of vampire secrets. He’s kept a death grip on the town ever since. Now an underground resistance is brewing, and in order to contain it, Bishop must go to even greater lengths. He vows to obliterate the town and all its inhabitants—the living and the undead. Claire Danvers and her friends are the only ones who stand in his way. But even if they defeat Bishop, will the vampires ever be content to go back to the old rules, after having such a taste of power?

My review


rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another wonderful jaunt in Morganville.

In this book Claire and friends find themselves caught up in the middle of the war between Bishop and Amelie. The fate of Morganville depends on the outcome of this war and Claire has her part to play in that outcome. I can't go into much detail without giving everything away, but it was a nice quick read. We do finally get an ending and not a major cliff-hanger, which makes it a lot easier to wait till the next book is released in November.

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Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Night Life by Ray Garton

Night Life Night Life by Ray Garton


Davey Owen is a man with a death sentence. Nearly twenty years and a lifetime ago, Davey battled a circle of vampires and survived...forever changed. Many of the vampires were destroyed, but the ones who escaped have been hunting Davey ever since. Now they’ve found him. The passing years have only intensified their thirst for revenge, and at last their prey is within sight. They will make sure that this time he does not escape. They will not rest until Davey pays for what he did to them. With his last drop of blood.

My review


rating: 4 of 5 stars
While not as good as 'Live Girls' still an interesting sequel.

Davey and Casey have made a quiet, happy life for themselves after escaping the vampires in the last book. They have learned to live as vampires without killing and have discovered a network of other vampires like themselves who want to exist without killing. Unfortunately that all comes to an end when a famous horror writer hires a couple of private investigators to find Walter Benedek who leads them to Davey and Casey.

When Casey and one of the investigators are kidnapped by the Brutals -- the vamps who kill to feed -- Davey must team up with some new friends to try to save them.

While not as well written as the first book I still enjoyed this sequel. Looking forward to seeing how Garton tackles werewolves next!

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Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Live Girls by Ray Garton

Live Girls Live Girls by Ray Garton


Davey's on the down and out when he loses his girl, his job and practically his sanity. While some men drown themselves in a forgiving bottle, Davey believes it's much more profitable to sink into Times Square's nightlife and lose himself inside Live Girls. They are the free ravishing pleasures who beckon Davey into a world of irresistible fantasy and ecstasy. One of them propositions him with a kiss, an insatiable kiss that leads him far from the misery he once felt to a demonic place where body and soul are sacrificed for obsessions.

My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
Great horror read. I read this in one day since I did not want to put it down once I started. Wonderfully dark and interesting take on modern day vampires. The characters were well developed and the story was great. Just the right amount of horror to make it interesting but not go over the top. Can not wait to get into the sequel 'Night Life'.

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Monday, June 8, 2009

Death Perception (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 6) by Victoria Laurie

Death Perception (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 6) Death Perception by Victoria Laurie


Abby Cooper's betting the house on her inner eye...

It took a while for Abby Cooper's FBI agent boyfriend, Dutch Rivers, to accept her psychic gifts as the real deal. But these days he knows better than to question Abby's visions. So when his favorite cousin Chase is kidnapped in Vegas, they both catch the next flight to Sin City. Abby's inner eye insists that Chase is still alive, but nothing else about the case adds up, especially Dutch's reluctance to involve his own Bureau.

On top of everything, Dutch is battling a mysterious illness, and Abby keeps having disturbing dreams that predict his death. Dutch wants Abby to promise that if the investigation goes south, she'll head home to safety. But when the chips are down, Abby won't fold without a fight...

My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another great Psychic Eye Mystery.

Dutch and Abby head to Vegas when Dutch gets word that his cousin Chase has been kidnapped along with a wealthy business man that he was working for. As Dutch and Abby join the local PD to try to find Chase things get more complicated by the minute. Dutch is suffering from some sort of sickness and Abby keeps having dreams about his death. When Dutch disappears Abby calls in Candice and Cat to help her find him. The three of them go on a heck of an adventure to find Dutch as Abby keeps getting the feeling that time is running out for him.

I loved when the girls teemed up in Vegas. What a fun ride. I really enjoy this series and plan to pre-order the next which is due to be released in September. Pre-orders are very rare for me, but I love this series that much!

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Thursday, June 4, 2009

Crime Seen (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 5) by Victoria Laurie

Crime Seen (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 5) Crime Seen by Victoria Laurie
Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye, is having a hard time getting over a gunshot wound from her last case-especially because she didn't see the shots coming. Out of work and second-guessing her abilities, she tries to get back in the saddle by helping her boyfriend Dutch with some of his FBI cases. And soon enough, her intuition returns-with a vengeance.

My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another great Psychic Eye book. In this book Abby is recovering from the gunshot wound that she received in her last book. She is staying with Dutch and is having a hard time trusting her intuitive powers since she feels that they let her down when she got shot. In steps Candice, her PI friend with an offer that Abby just can not refuse, and which helps to get Abby right back into the thick of things. She helps Dutch with a couple of FBI cases while at the same time works behind Dutch's back with Candice on a cold case that both Dutch and Milo are personally involved in, putting herself once more in the middle of some dangerous situations.

A great mystery in this book as well Dutch and Abby working on their relationship. As a whole a great read!

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Monday, June 1, 2009

Killer Insight (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 4) by Victoria Laurie

Killer Insight (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 4) Killer Insight by Victoria Laurie

Died to Match


When her relationship with FBI agent Dutch Rivers skids to a halt, Abby Cooper is fully aware that a wedding isn't the best post-breakup scenario. But when a friend from the Mile High City finds herself short one bridesmaid, it doesn't take a professional psychic to see the opportunity for a much-needed get-away.

High altitudes can be healing, and Abby reunites with friends--especially her childhood crush Duffy McGinnis, now town sherrif... not to mention tall tark and yummy. But Abby needs more than a shoulder to cry on. One bridesmaid after another is mysteriously flying the coop, and Abby's intuition tells her that their final destinations aren't pretty.

With the wedding party falling apart and her gift of sight never quite so foggy, Abby has to save the date--and herself from becoming the next taffeta-clad target...

My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
When Abby and Dutch break up on Valentine's Day, Abby decides to leave early for the wedding of her childhood friend to try to mend her broken heart. Of course she ends up right in the middle of a mystery when it ends up that the missing bridesmaid that she is replacing is dead. As bridesmaids start disappearing and Abby finds herself getting reacquainted with her old crush Duffy, now the local sheriff, Abby finds herself right in the middle of the mayhem.

I do have to say that Abby is a little better this time about not jumping right into danger, but it still seems to find her.

I really enjoyed this book and loved new cast of characters that we met. Looking forward to more of Abby's story.

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A Vision of Murder (A Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 3) by Victoria Laurie

A Vision of Murder (A Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 3) A Vision of Murder by Victoria Laurie

Professional psychic Abby Cooper has invested in a fixer-upper, hoping to make a killing in the real estate market. But a killing of another kind puts her plans awry, as the ghost of a murdered woman and some troublesome poltergeists lead her into a mystery that stretches all the way back to World War II.

My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another great Abby Cooper mystery.

This time around Abby, her sister Cat and Dave her handyman decide to form a company and purchase homes that need work to fix up and resell. Unfortunately for them the first home that they buy is haunted. Abby is drawn into the growing mystery of why the house is haunted and by whom as her whole life is turned upside down by a madman who seems to have targeted her.

Add to that the fact that Abby is playing nursemaid to a healing Dutch who managed to get shot in the behind on his last case and you have a great read!

I am really enjoying this series and can not wait to move on to the next book.
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Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Frindle by Andrew Clements, Brian Selznick

Frindle Frindle by Andrew Clements


Is Nick Allen a troublemaker?

He really just likes to liven things up at school -- and he's always had plenty of great ideas. When Nick learns some interesting information about how words are created, suddenly he's got the inspiration for his best plan ever...the frindle. Who says a pen has to be called a pen? Why not call it a frindle? Things begin innocently enough as Nick gets his friends to use the new word. Then other people in town start saying frindle. Soon the school is in an uproar, and Nick has become a local hero. His teacher wants Nick to put an end to all this nonsense, but the funny thing is frindle doesn't belong to Nick anymore. The new word is spreading across the country, and there's nothing Nick can do to stop it.

My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
Totally enjoyed reading this book with my 5th grade book group.



When Nick decides to create a new word for a pen his idea takes off with a life of it's own. He gets into a battle with his Language Arts teacher and the work Frindle is born. Great story.



Also a nice reminder to those of us who work with kids that kids who think outside the box are not always trouble makers, they are often the ones who are going to grow up and make a difference in the world that we live in.


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Monday, May 25, 2009

Better Read Than Dead (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 2) by Victoria Laurie

Better Read Than Dead (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 2) Better Read Than Dead by Victoria Laurie


Word of Abby's talents reading tarot cards has reached a mob boss who wants her help in some business matters and he doesn't take no for an answer. When the police seek out her psychic intuition to shed light on a masked man who's been attacking women, Abby finds herself working both sides of the law on her own, leading her to wonder, why didn't I see this coming?

My review


Another excellent book in the Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye series.


When Abby inadvertently gets mixed up with the local Greek Mob she is tormented until she finally agrees to help the Don find his long lost wife. Her relationship with Dutch gets very rocky when Dutch comes home form FBI training with a sexy new female partner who does not hesitate to let Abby know that she is interested in more than a working relationship with Dutch. To add to her seemingly cursed life she is helping the local police try to capture a serial rapist.

Things are very dark for Abby in this second book of the Psychic Eye series. But Abby manages to survive and eventually save the day.

Looking forward to reading the next in this wonderful series,

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Saturday, May 23, 2009

Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 1) by Victoria Laurie

Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 1) Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye by Victoria Laurie


You'd think being clairvoyant would give Abigail Cooper the ability to avoid danger.

But being psychic doesn't necessarily allow you to sidestep murder and mayhem---it just lets you know that they're coming...

In Royal Oak, a suburb of Detroit, thirtysomething Abby Cooper lives a life that's kind of like vanilla ice cream--good enough, but a little bland. Her work as a P. I.--Psychic Intuitive--can be rewarding, but she feels like somehow she's missing out on the hot-fudge topping...

Now she's getting what she wished for--when a client winds up dead and the clues start pointing in Abby's direction. Turns out she knows too many details about the murder for her own good. To make matters worse, the hot blind date she just met is the lead investigator on the case. And gorgeous Detective Dutch Rivers is convinced she's a fraud.

No matter how great her psychic abilities, Abby deosn't know if she can solve this case. Unfortunately for her, though, the killer thinks she can...



My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
Very good start of a cozy mystery series. I love the main character Abby Cooper and her psychic ability. The mystery was a little more involved and a little darker than some cozies that I have read and I liked it that way. Looking forward to reading more of this series, which I conveniently have sitting her on my TBR mountain.






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Sunday, May 17, 2009

Trouble in High Heels (Fortune Hunter, Book 1) by Christina Dodd

Trouble in High Heels (Fortune Hunter, Book 1) Trouble in High Heels by Christina Dodd


Trouble follows this "Master"* of romance-right onto the bestseller lists. Now the New York Times bestselling author Christina Dodd makes her NAL debut When Brandi Michaels discovers her fiancé has hopped a flight to Vegas to marry someone else, she spends a sultry night in the arms of a gorgeous Italian stranger named Roberto Bartolini, convinced she's found the perfect revenge, she then goes home to find that her apartment's been ransacked, she's become the mark for a killer, and somehow her new lover is more of a stranger than she thought. As the web of danger around her tightens, Brandi has no choice but to turn to Roberto. One thing's for sure...she's not going down without a fight.

My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
Very good read. I had trouble putting it down this weekend and finished it in a couple days. I guess I was in need of a little old fashioned romance. lol

When Brandi Michaels uproots her life to move to Chicago to be with her fiance Alan she never suspects that her life is about to change in the way that it is. The day she moves into her new apartment during one of Chicago's coldest winters she gets a phone call from Alan telling her that he has flown off to Las Vegas to marry his pregnant girlfriend. She decides to pawn Alan's engagement ring and goes out on a mission to find the perfect stranger to have a one night stand with to help her forget Alan. What she finds in Count Roberto Bartolini, a notorious Italian jewel thief. After a passionate night like nothing she has ever experienced before, Roberto convinces Brandi to stay the weekend. Since she starts a new job on Monday at a prestigious law firm she agrees to this last fling.

When she is introduced to her first client Monday morning, imagine he shock when she discovers that it is Count Roberto Bartloni whom she will be defending. Being thrown back together ignites the flames and both Brandi and Roberto find themselves consumed by their desire for each other. Getting involved with this notorious jewel thief is not what Brandi had in mind but she is drawn further and further into the danger of his world.

A wonderful read with just the right amount of heated romance, humor, and intrigue. I am ordering the other books in the Fortune Hunter series since this one was so much fun.

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Saturday, May 16, 2009

Half Life by Hal Clement

Half Life Half Life by Hal Clement


In about two hundred years, the human race on Earth is perhaps facing extinction due to the rapid evolution of disease. A crew of young men and women travel to the moons of Saturn, to Titan, to investigate the biochemistry of the pre-life conditions there in the slim hope of discovering something that might save Earth. The whole story runs at high-speed, as they race to find answers across the surface of an alien landscape with death close behind . . . and gaining.

My review


rating: 2 of 5 stars
I am not a huge fan of hard sci-fi and this book would definitely be classified as such. A lot of scientific jargon that went way over my head and made the plot hard to follow. The characters were not very well developed. I had no idea who was who. I stuck with it but did think about giving it up a couple times. Just not my kind of sci-fi.

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Sunday, May 10, 2009

Key to Conspiracy (Gillian Key, ParaDoc, Book 2) by Talia Gryphon

Key to Conspiracy (Gillian Key, ParaDoc, Book 2) Key to Conspiracy by Talia Gryphon



In northern Russia after a devastating earthquake, paramortal psychologist and Marine Special Forces operative Gillian Key helps break up a ring of child traffickers preying on newly orphaned children. But away from Count Aleksei Rachlav, the irresistible vampire she left behind, Gillian is vulnerable to the Dark Prince himself, Dracula, who would like nothing more than to use her as a pawn in his escalating war with Rachlav.


My review


rating: 3 of 5 stars
This was an okay read. I really like the characters of this series, but I find that the author really does not do a very good job of moving the story along. The events in the story have no transition. One minute we are fighting goblins and the next we are in the middle of a treaty signing. One minute we are rescuing children in Russia and the next we are fighting Jack the Ripper. Lots of action but really does not have any transition between events. Almost like the author is trying to cram way too much into the short 250 pages of book.



That being said I will read the next in the series, because I do like the characters and the basic storyline. There is a lot of action and just enough heated romance to keep me reading.


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Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Mark of the Lion: A Jade Del Cameron Mystery #1 by Suzanne Arruda

Mark of the Lion: A Jade Del Cameron Mystery (Jade del Cameron Mysteries) Mark of the Lion: A Jade Del Cameron Mystery by Suzanne Arruda


In 1919, when most women only dream of adventure, Jade del Cameron lives it. After driving an ambulance along the front lines of World War I, she can fire a rifle with deadly precision. Still suffering trauma from the Great War, she sets off for Africa determined to fulfill a man's dying wish...never expecting to become involved in murder.

Rich with romance, mystery, and adventure, Mark of the Lion introduces a fascinating new heroine and explores the elusive heart of a compelling and exotic world.


My review


rating: 4 of 5 stars
Good read. I really like the main character, Jade del Cameron as well as the supporting characters. I did figure out that mystery fairly easily but the author writes in a very descriptive style and I loved reading about Africa. I will be reading more in the series as soon as I can get my hands on them.


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Saturday, April 25, 2009

Dies the Fire by S.M. Stirling

Dies the Fire Dies the Fire by S.M. Stirling


The Change occurred when an electrical storm centered over the island of Nantucket produced a blinding white flash that rendered all electronic devices and fuels inoperable. What follows is the most terrible global catastrophe in the history of the human race-and a Dark Age more universal and complete than could possibly be imagined.

My review


rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have always enjoyed Post Apocalyptic books and for the most part this was a good one. When the Change happens and makes anything powered obsolete people have to figure out how to survive in a world suddenly thrown back in time several centuries.

We follow two separate groups of survivors lead by Mike Havel, an ex-soldier, outdoors man and Juniper Mackenzie a Wiccan High Priestess and single mom. Mike leads his ever growing group out of the Idaho woods after the bush plane his was flying crash lands. With him is a wealthy family who he feels responsible for. Meanwhile Juniper leads a band of survivors from the town that she was in when the Change happened to her cabin in the woods, where they begin to create a Clan of survivors.

Most of the book is quite good although there are quite a few fight scenes and war strategy sessions that get a bit boring. The two leaders eventually meet and become allies against some truly evil men who want to take over the farmlands and rule by fear and force.

The characters were well defined although there get to be a lot of them and a little difficult to keep straight at times.

I do look forward to the next book in this set as well as other books by this author.

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Thursday, April 16, 2009

Lord of Misrule (The Morganville Vampires, Book 5) by Rachel Caine

Lord of Misrule (The Morganville Vampires, Book 5) Lord of Misrule by Rachel Caine


The feast is over ... and the battle for Morganville has begun. Bishop's on one side, Amelie's on the other, and Claire's status as Amelie's most trusted human ally has just landed her on Morganville's Most Wanted list, along with all of her friends. As a bitter Texas storm bears down on the town, there's nowhere to hide ... from anything.

My review


rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well since I was expecting this to be a cliff hanger I can not say that I am surprised. But I do have to say that I hated the ending, but I loved the excerpt from the next book.



I really wish that I had saved this series of books and then read them back to back. I am sure that I would have enjoyed them more. That being said I do enjoy this series and I am looking forward to reading more. There is no question that the books are action packed. I just wish that they lasted longer. It is like getting a taste of something really good and then having to wait 6 months for another little taste. lol

Oh well -- I love the residents of the Glass house and can not wait to read more!

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Sunday, April 12, 2009

Shakespeare's Counselor (Lily Bard Mystery, Book 5) by Charlaine Harris

Shakespeare's Counselor (Lily Bard Mystery, Book 5) Shakespeare's Counselor by Charlaine Harris


Synopsis
Cleaning woman and karate expert Lily Bard is a woman with a complicated past. Trying her best to cope with her terrifying memories and horrible nightmares, she decides to join a weekly group therapy session in her hometown of Shakespeare, Arkansas. At first, Lily can hardly believe the number of her fellow Shakespeareans that share her life experiences.

As it turns out, the group members' feelings aren't the only things that need sorting out -- they assemble for a session and find a woman dead, killed in bone-chilling fashion and deliberately left on display to send a twisted message. Who would commit such horrendous crime, and who is the intended recipient of the message?

Before long, Lily becomes embroiled in this disturbing murder and its aftermath, one in which the brutal killer's motives are entirely unclear. The truth is, the situation has dredged up more than a few of her own terrible secrets, and she may not be able to rest until she can untangle the who and why of this terrible crime. But can she accomplish this before the killer strikes again, and before her nightmares send her over the edge? Shakespeare's Counselor is the most complex and absorbing installment yet in Charlaine Harris's engaging, original, and more than slightly dark mystery series.

My review


rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another great read in the Lily Bard Mystery series. I am sad to see this series end as I have really come to like Lily, but this book was a good last chapter. As Jack and Lily become more involved, Lily realizes that it is time to confront her feelings concerning her attack. She joins a support group where she not only makes some progress dealing with her own personal issues, but is faced with another murder mystery.

I really enjoyed this book because it really focused on Lily and Jack's relationship as well as Lily's emotional state. I would love to see more of this series, but know that realistically we probably won't. A shame since I think that there is a lot more that Jack and Lily could accomplish together!

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