Wendy's Opinion on Books

Mysteria Lane (Mysteria #2) by MaryJanice Davidson, P.C. Cast, Gena Showalter, Susan Grant

2012-01-31T22:32:00.000-05:00

Mysteria Lane by MaryJanice Davidson

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Return to a town of bewitching seduction and sensual demons. Theres a spellbinding witch of love who wants to make one man hers; a vegan having trouble adapting to vampirism; Satans emissary, who is looking for steady work in Colorado; and angelic triplets feeling a wee touch of the devil.

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A nice set of 4 stories set in Mysteria, a town created for the supernatural. It has been a while since I read the first book in this series, so I really did not remember any of the characters that were in this book but the concept was still there. As with the first book, the story by MaryJanice Davidson was the worst. Very disjointed with little to no plot and a couple of different story lines that really did not mesh well. The other 3 stories in the book were fun, quick reads. The story by PC Cast was a 'sweet' romance while the story by Gena Showalter was a 'hot' romance. Susan Grant's story was a little more out there, but still an enjoyable read. Overall the book does not have anything that is going to be memorable over the long haul, but was a fun bit of quick entertainment.

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Murder Boogies with Elvis (Southern Sisters Mystery #8) by Anne George

2012-01-29T00:16:00.001-05:00

Murder Boogies with Elvis by Anne George

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Southern sisters Mary Alice and Patricia Anne are enjoying their golden years, and these days are better than most. They're spending time with their grandchildren. They're planning Mary Alice's fourth wedding. And they're still having fun solving mysteries, too. So when an Elvis impersonator takes a fatal dive into the band at a local benefit, Mary Alice and Patricia Anne don't need any coaxing to put on their blue suede shoes and set out in search of a killer -- whose next target could be the Southern sisters themselves
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Loved this last book in the Southern Sisters Mystery series. I will miss reading about these wonderful sisters and their bumbling adventures. Nice ending to a wonderful, fun, witty series. I am sad that there will be no more murder mysteries for Mary Alice and Patricia Anne to stumble upon. Like the way that this one wrapped up and left us with some very happy endings for a wonderful group of characters.

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Murder Carries a Torch (Southern Sisters Mystery #7) by Anne George

2012-01-26T23:12:00.002-05:00

Murder Carries a Torch by Anne George

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Southern sisters' cousin Pukey Lukey is in a terrible state. His wife, Virginia, has run off with a housepainting preacher. And that's just the start of his trouble. Because before Patricia Anne and Mary Alice can help Pukey Lukey find his beloved Virginia, they'll discover that all is not heavenly in the Church of Jesus Is Our Life and Heaven Hereafter, where the faithful are into snake-handling, the holy men are engaged in a venomous war, and a killer has left Pukey with a huge lump on his head -- and a dead redhead by his side.

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Another enjoyable read in the Southern Sisters Mystery series. While this one is not as good as the books in the beginning of the series, it is still a lot of fun to ride along with Mouse and Sister as they bumble their way through murder mystery after murder mystery. I am looking forward to seeing what happens with the family in the next book since I know that it is the last in the series. Gonna miss these two characters and their families when I am done.

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Murder Shoots the Bull (Southern Sisters Mystery, #6) by Anne George

2012-01-22T10:21:00.002-05:00

Murder Shoots the Bull by Anne George

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Patricia Anne would swear that either she or her sister Mary Alice were switched at birth, except they were both born at home.Flashy, flirtatious Mary Alice is one foot taller, twice the body weight of Patricia Anne, and three times as likely to do something completely off the wall. But now Mary Alice's impulsive behavior has land them both in the Birmingham jail!

It all begins with a call from their good friend Mitzi Phizer, who's starting an investment club — kind of a Beardstown Ladies group. Patricia Anne is willing to make a small, conservative investment in a thriving chain of HMOs; Mary Alice is hot to trot to put her money on Viagra. But before the club idea gets off the ground, the sisters spot Mitzi's supposedly faithful husband in a chummy little huddle with a redhead — and the next thing they know, Arthur is accused of murdering the mystery woman. Nothing about the whole sordid story fits the kind, gently Arthur, and Patricia Anne is doing her best to console her good friends. But when their house catches on fire, and Arthur is shot in a place that won't allow him to even sit down at his own murder trial, the sisters know they have to stand up for the poor fellow. And that means checking out everyone — from low-down cads to highbrow bank presidents — to find a no good gun-toting arsonist who believes big money is to kill for.

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Another fun read in the Southern Sisters Mystery series. I did not enjoy this one quite as much as the previous books in the series though. The characters involved in the actual mystery and their relationships were hard to follow and the ending was a little too thrown together for me. I still enjoyed the relationship between Mary Alice and Patricia Anne and will be finishing up the series soon.

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Creepin' by L.A. Banks, Monica Jackson, Donna Hill, J. M. Jeffries, Janice Sims

2012-01-16T12:18:00.000-05:00

Creepin' by L.A. Banks

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Welcome to a world of werewolves, vampires, demons and mere mortals, where, in the name of revenge, five women are about to live out their wildest fantasies—even if it means crossing over to that other side…
Five of today's most provocative authors invite you into a realm beyond the limits of your sensual imagination, where anything can happen—and does. In these stories of bloodlust and payback, of scorching desire and otherworldly fantasies come true, you'll encounter five women who thought they had it all, until a betrayal takes them on a feverish journey to the dark edge of vengeance. Fueled by lust and deception, these women are going to let their voracious appetites guide them as they take justice into their own hands.…

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Did not care at all for 'The Heat of the Night' by Donna Hill. Totally without plot and was nothing more than a continuing sexual encounter that was too far fetched to even enjoy. The other 2 stories -- 'Payback is a Bitch' by LA Banks & 'Vamped' by Monica Jackson were okay reads, though I feel that 'Vamped' had too 'miraculous' of an ending.
Without question the best 2 stories in the book were the last two-- 'Balancing the Scales' by JM Jeffries and 'Avenging Angel' by Janice Sims with 'Avenging Angel' winning in a landslide.
I enjoyed the Jeffries story. It had a good plot and storyline. Nice finish and definitely made me want to look into more books by these talented authors.
But I have to say that I loved Janice Sims' story. It read like a novel and the minute that I finished I rushed to her website to see if there were any more books about the Nephilim. Sadly I did not see any but I really hope that this author plans to take this storyline further. I can see an entire series evolve from this story. Wonderful read!!!

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Murder Gets A Life (Southern Sisters Mystery #5) by Anne George

2012-01-13T22:15:00.000-05:00

Murder Gets A Life by Anne George

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the breezy, very funny Murder Gets a Life, the fifth Southern Sisters mystery from Alabama writer Anne George, petite, married Patricia Ann and her thrice-widowed amazon of a sister discover that murder's a family affair, thanks to Mary Alice's new in-laws. There's a corpse with a hog-butchering knife stuck in his chest, but plot's hardly the point in a story chock-full of engaging characters and knowing humor. When Patricia Ann wonders if the murder victim was married, Mary Alice says, "Probably, his clothes matched."

~~~

Love this series. I enjoy the writing style of the author. The relationship between the flamboyant Mary Alice and her laid back sister Patricia Anne is wonderful and the things that they manage to stumble into are always a treat to read about.

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Notoriously Neat (Grime Solvers Mystery #3) by Suzanne Price

2012-01-10T21:23:00.000-05:00

Notoriously Neat by Suzanne Price
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Murder is so unsanitary...

Professional cleaner Sky Taylor and her potential new beau the towns police chiefare on their first dinner date when theyre interrupted by a stampede of household pets running through the restaurant. Someones murdered Dr. Gail Pilsner, Pigeon Coves hugely popular veterinarian, releasing all the critters boarded at her clinic.

Then when one of the singers in a vocal group, the La Dee Das, is murdered, Sky must uncover the link between the veterinarian and the songbirdsbefore a killer finishes cleaning house.

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Very much enjoying this series. I really like Sky, the main character and I like the fact that the mystery is only a small part of the whole book. I really look forward to more in this series. Have to see what the author has in store for us on this series.

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Dirty Deeds (Grime Solvers Mystery #2) by Suzanne Price

2012-01-06T23:43:00.002-05:00

Dirty Deeds by Suzanne Price
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Includes cleaning tips!

Between her newspaper column and her cleaning clients, cleaning wiz Sky Taylor is on her way to a stable, self-sufficient life. All she needs now is a contract to clean City Hall. What she doesnt need is another messy murder investigation. What does she get? Both.

The body of Kyle Fipps, real estate developer and wannabe actor, is the untidiest remnant of the Art Associations annual holiday bash. With his pack of scheming enemies, and a smattering of even less trustworthy friends, its very likely he was murdered. But when the investigation leads straight to City Hall, will Sky be the next one getting swept under the rug?

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Definitely enjoying this series. I like the characters a lot and while the mysteries are interesting, the story line covers much more. Looking forward to more in this series.

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Perfect Reading Challenge for me this year -- 2012 Cruisin' thru the Cozies Reading Challenge

2012-01-03T21:10:00.000-05:00

Looks like another perfect reading challenge for me this year as I have already finished one cozy and am a good way through my second. I also realized when listing some of the series that I would like to read this year @ BookObsessed.com that a major portion of them are cozies. So here we go!

A Tale Dark and Grimm by Adam Gidwitz

2012-01-02T21:40:00.000-05:00

A Tale Dark and Grimm by Adam Gidwitz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this mischievous and utterly original debut, Hansel and Gretel walk out of their own story and into eight other classic Grimm-inspired tales. As readers follow the siblings through a forest brimming with menacing foes, they learn the true story behind (and beyond) the bread crumbs, edible houses, and outwitted witches.

Fairy tales have never been more irreverent or subversive as Hansel and Gretel learn to take charge of their destinies and become the clever architects of their own happily ever after.

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My 11 year old daughter bought this book at the school book fair and brought it home. She wanted me to read it with her so we have been reading it together over the last couple weeks. I have to say that I totally enjoyed the book, as an adult who loves to read horror novels, but I was a bit concerned that it was not quite appropriate for my 11 year old. This is quite a dark and graphic book, even though it is written in a humorous, Lemony Snicket style, with the author breaking into the story with comments, advice, etc. There is no question that is was written to be a humorous recounting of a collection of fairy tales, but I think that it is important that you are sure your child is able to understand that it is all just make believe. That being said, I would recommend it to any and all adult fans of horror, fairy tales and humorous wit.

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Another Challenge for 2012 -- Book Chick City's Horror & Urban Fantasy Reading Challenge 2012

2012-01-02T10:31:00.000-05:00

So I have decided to jump start my resolution to read more in 2012 by joining some Reading Challenges. Since I have always been a huge fan or Horror and thus have jumped on the Urban Fantasy bandwagon this challenge is right up my alley!! Looking forward to digging out some of my horror novels that have been gathering dust on the bookshelves as well as finding some really good Urban Fantasy (not to be confused with Paranormal Romance) to read this year!!

I have decided to go for the 24 novel level.

To follow my progress check HERE

Timeline: Jan. 1, 2012 - Dec. 31, 2012

Rules: To read TWENTY FOUR (24) or FORTY EIGHT (48)

horror & urban fantasy novels in 2012

For more details or to sign up click HERE

Scene of The Grime (Grime Solvers Mystery #1) by Suzanne Price

2012-01-02T01:30:00.000-05:00

Scene of The Grime by Suzanne Price
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In her mid-30s and recently widowed, Sky Taylor left the big city for Pigeon Cove, a hamlet off the Massachusetts coast. Sky is re-adapting to single life-with a newspaper column and her knack for creative cleaning increasingly in demand. Then she discovers a patron of the Millwood Inn permanently checked-out.Now Sky's juggling the police chief's questions with advances from the newest-and handsomest-crime reporter in town. But if she wants to clear her name, she has some scouring to do.

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A nice start to the New Year. This cozy mystery is the first of a series. I enjoyed it. I like the main character and the story line stayed interesting. Definitely looking forward to the next in the series to see where it goes next.

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New Year, New Challenges, New Goals

2012-01-01T10:17:00.005-05:00

I had an awful year for reading in 2011 so I have decided that for 2012 I am going to attempt to focus more on reading. Reading more of the books that I already have and organize my library. The first step I am going to take is to join a wonderful challenge that a book buddy of mine discovered. I have signed up for Mt. Vancouver - read 25 books from your tbr pile in the hopes that I can increase that level as the year goes by.
You can view my progress here.

The Mount TBR Challenge is hosted by My Reader's Block and will run from Jan. 1 - Dec. 31 2012. Sign up and rules

Ink Flamingos (Tattoo Shop Mystery #4) by Karen E. Olson

2011-12-28T23:12:00.000-05:00

Ink Flamingos by Karen E. Olson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dee Carmichael, lead singer of the pop sensation The Flamingoes, has been one of Brett Kavanaugh's most dedicated customers at her tattoo shop. When Dee is discovered dead surrounded by ink pots and needles, Brett is branded a suspect.

It seems that someone is impersonating Brett. And if she doesn't act fast, the killer is sure to put the dye in dying once again...

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Finished this back in July but did not journal.

I absolutely love this series. Each one seems to be a little bit better than the last. Really like where these are going as far as Bret's personal life. Very much looking forward to the next one.

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Dead Reckoning (Sookie Stackhouse #11) by Charlaine Harris

2011-12-28T23:01:00.003-05:00

Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
With her knack for being in trouble's way, Sookie witnesses the firebombing of Merlotte's, the bar where she works. Since Sam Merlotte is now known to be two-natured, suspicion falls immediately on the anti-shifters in the area. Sookie suspects otherwise, but her attention is divided when she realizes that her lover Eric Northman and his "child" Pam are plotting to kill the vampire who is now their master. Gradually, Sookie is drawn into the plot-which is much more complicated than she knows...

ETA- I read this book in July of 2011

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As always I enjoy Sookie. The books are always quick reads and enjoyable. I had a little trouble with this one, only because I kept wanting to relate it to the television series. lol

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ReVamped (Void City #2) by J.F. Lewis

2011-06-17T18:00:00.000-04:00

ReVamped by J.F. Lewis

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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REVIVED. REFRESHED. AND READY FOR REVENGE.

Eric survived a vicious showdown with his double-crossing former best friend and some angry lycanthropes—barely: he’s lost his strip club, his treasured red Mustang, his love life, and even his body. But with a little magic, the die-hard Vlad returns to corporeal form, and “Fang the ’Stang” is restored—with an unlife of its own. Now Eric’s ready to match wits with one of Void City’s most powerful demons to rescue the soul of Marilyn, the love of his (mortal) life. But salvation comes at a high price, forcing Eric to enter his own worst nightmare, vampire High Society, to uncover the truth about the origin of his powers. Having to deal with the Void City elite is bad enough, but the more Eric sniffs around, the more it looks like someone is after his soul, too. Now blood will flow and fangs will be bared, because revenge is never pretty . . . and Eric has plenty to pass around.
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Interesting. Definitely has something a little different than most of the books out there in this genre, but for me it just did not hold my attention. I found myself kind of ho hum about picking it up and reading more of it. Not sure why. I am moving on to #3 since I have it sitting here.

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Staked (Void City, #1) by J.F. Lewis

2011-05-30T18:55:00.001-04:00

Staked by J.F. Lewis

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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UNREPENTANT. UNIMPRESSED. AND TOTALLY UNDEAD.

Eric's got issues. He has short-term and long-term memory problems; he can't remember who he ate for dinner yesterday, much less how he became a vampire in the first place. His best friend, Roger, is souring on the strip club he and Eric own together. And his girlfriend, Tabitha, keeps pressuring him to turn her so she can join him in undeath. It's almost enough to put a Vlad off his appetite. Almost.

Eric tries to solve one problem, only to create another: he turns Tabitha into a vampire, but finds that once he does, his desire for her fades - and her younger sister, Rachel, sure is cute. And when he kills a werewolf in self-defense, things really get out of hand. Now a pack of born-again lycanthropes is out for holy retribution, while Tabitha and Rachel have their own agendas - which may or may not include helping Eric stay in one piece.

All Eric wants to do is run his strip club, drink a little blood, and be left alone. Instead, he must survive car crashes, enchanted bullets, sunlight, sex magic, and werewolves on ice - not to mention his own nasty temper and forgetfulness.

Because being undead isn't easy, but it sure beats the alternative.

~~~

Definitely an interesting read. The storyline was not as smooth as I would have liked and the character building could have been better, but lots of action and enough plot to keep you wanting to read. I am happy that I have book #2: Revamped sitting here because this one ends right in the middle and the next one takes up right there. Looking forward to reading the next book to see where Eric, Tabitha and Marilynn go from here.

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Afterburn (Bio Rescue #2) by S.L. Viehl

2011-05-29T15:21:00.000-04:00

Afterburn by S.L. Viehl

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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After driving their mutual enemy out of the Pmoc quadrant, the Allied League of Worlds gather for a peace summit on K-2, the homeworld of the underwater-dwelling 'Zangians. With the Bio Rescue team assigned to protect the delegates, Sub-Lieutenant Burn mu Znora's attention is placed on the daughter of one of the ambassadors, who is hiding a deadly secret-a secret that may alter the fate of four worlds.
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Great sequel to Viehl's Bio Rescue. I love this author. I enjoyed reading Burns story and wrapping up some of the events from the first book. Totally enjoyed it and looking forward to reading more by Viehl soon!

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The Chaos (Numbers #2) by Rachel Ward

2011-05-15T09:47:00.000-04:00

The Chaos by Rachel Ward

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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The curse of the NUM8ERS continues in Rachel Ward's CHA0T1C, earth-shattering sequel!

Adam has more than inherited his mother's curse: When he looks in someone's eyes, he not only sees the date of their death...he feels the searing, shocking pain of it. Since Jem died, Adam has lived by the sea with his great-grandmother, Val. But when rising tides flood the coast, they return to London. The city is an alien, exciting, frightening place. Most disturbing of all, Adam can't help but clock how many people's numbers are in January 2027; how many are on New Year's Day. What chaos awaits the world? Can he and Sarah stop a catastrophe? Or are they, too, counted among the "twenty-sevens"?
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Wonderful follow up to Numbers #1. Loved the characters and the storyline kept moving right along. There was a 'Wow' moment at the end and all around a fantastic story. Very much looking forward to more in this series and by this author.

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50 Ways to Hex Your Lover (Jazz Tremaine #1) by Linda Wisdom

2011-05-08T18:00:00.000-04:00

50 Ways to Hex Your Lover by Linda Wisdom

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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Jazz can't decide whether to scorch him with a fireball or jump into bed with him.

Jasmine Tremaine, a witch who can't stay out of trouble.

Nikolai Gregorivich, a drop-dead gorgeous vampire cop on the trail of a serial killer.

The sizzling love affair between Jazz and Nick has been off-again, on-again-for about 300 years. Mostly off, lately. But now Nick needs Jazz's help, and while Jazz and Nick try to figure out their own hearts and resist their ever-increasing attraction, they must steer clear of a maniacal killer with super-supernatural powers. They are surrounded by a hilarious cast of oddball paranormal characters, including Irma, the chain-smoking ghost who haunts Jazz's sports car, Dweezil, her ghoul of a boss, and Fluff and Puff, a pair of bunny slippers with sharp teeth and short tempers (watch your ankles)!
~~~

I have to say that I fully expected this book to be a fun fluff read, between the cover and the description of the characters on the back of the book. I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised to find that I was wrong. It really was a darker storyline than I was expecting, but that is a good thing. I totally enjoyed the story and while there are some interesting and quirky characters this is by no means fluff. Looking forward to more in the series.

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Chloe, Queen of Denial (Smooch) by Naomi Nash

2011-05-04T21:36:00.000-04:00

Chloe, Queen of Denial by Naomi Nash

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

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One of two books in which two girls discover an Egyptian archaeological dig is a lot more than surviving blistering heat and scorpions-hot guys, a cursed bracelet, and ancient tombs make it the adventure of a lifetime.
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This was a quick cute read. Of course I already knew 'who done it' since I have already read 'Eyeliner of the Gods'. But it was still fun to read about things and see where they intertwined with the other book. I did enjoy this one a bit more than the other. It was a little more entertaining of a storyline.

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Merry Christmas, Baby (Men of Rogues Hollow #4) by various authors

2011-04-30T14:58:00.002-04:00

Merry Christmas, Baby by Lucy Monroe

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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DONNA KAUFFMAN - Making Waves: The last thing playboy captain Burke Morgan needs is a last-minute replacement cook for his yacht who also suffers from motion sickness. But once he sees luscious Kamala Apolo, he's got a perfect idea for getting her body in sync with the rhythm of the water...
NANCY WARREN - Let It Snow: When perky Chicago weather girl Marisa Langley gets stuck in the cold with her survivalist cameraman, Rob Sheridon, she can't begin to forecast just how steamy it can get between the two of them...

ERIN McCARTHY - And About Time, Too: Josh Black is so in love with his friend Cassidy that he writes her into his cartoon strip, making Cassidy think he's fallen for another woman. Can two confirmed "friends" unwrap their true feelings in time to share a night of unforgettable holiday passion?

MARYJANICE DAVIDSON - Undercover Clause: Dressed as a sidewalk Santa, undercover cop Corinne mistakes Tony Danielson for a purse snatcher. What Tony sees is a beautiful, lonely workaholic, and he'd love to take her out of disguise and help her slip into something a little more comfortable...

LUCY MONROE - Silver Bella: Successful model Bella Jackson may look steamy on covers, but under them, she's a total novice. What she needs is someone who can make her feel the way she looks. And hunky Texan Jake Barton seems exactly what she needs in her Christmas stocking...

SUSANNA CARR - Snow Day: Showing up naked in Tyler's bed has more to do with Karen's rotten luck and bad sense of direction than actual intent. But Tyler's sure she's right where she belongs, and he's got one Christmas snowstorm to prove it to her...

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Glad that I decided to read this before sending it on. Great stories. The one that I enjoyed the least was the MJD one which is surprising as she is the only author who I have read before. Her story just did not have the substance that the others did. Granted each story was a lust/love at first sight story, but they were fun and told good stories. Definitely steamy enough for a cold winter night. lol

Great anthology. Gonna go check out some of the other books out by these authors.

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Blue Diablo (Corine Solomon #1) by Ann Aguirre

2011-04-28T16:52:00.001-04:00

Blue Diablo by Ann Aguirre

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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Other women change their hair color on a whim or to impress a new boyfriend; Corinne Solomon dyes hers because she's running scared. She's a handler, a paranormal who can touch something and almost instantly know its history and, if she's lucky (or unlucky) its future, too. Now hiding out in Mexico, she wants to keep a low profile, but when people come begging for her help, she can't refuse, although she knows that she should know better
~~~

Very much enjoyed this first book in the Corine Solomon series. I love Aguirre's Grimspace series and so am not surprised that I like this one as well. This reminds me a little bit of the Psychic Eye Mysteries by Victoria Laurie which happen to be my favorite mystery series. I like the main character Corine and the storyline is interesting. Very much looking forward to getting my hands on the other books in the series soon!

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Doubleblind (Sirantha Jax #3) by Ann Aguirre

2011-04-25T20:30:00.000-04:00

Doubleblind by Ann Aguirre

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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It’s not easy to tread lightly wearing steel-toed boots.

Sirantha Jax isn’t known for diplomatic finesse. As a “Jumper” who navigates ships through grimspace, she’s used to kicking ass first and taking names later—much later. Not exactly the obvious choice to sell the Conglomerate to the Ithtorians, a people whose opinions of humans are as hard as their exoskeletons.

And Ithiss-Tor council meetings aren’t the only place where Ambassador Jax needs to maneuver carefully. Her lover, March, is frozen in permanent “kill” mode, and his hair-trigger threatens to sabotage the talks—not to mention their relationship.

But Jax won’t give up on the man or the mission. With the Outskirts beleaguered by raiders, pirates, and the flesh-eating Morgut, an alliance with Ithiss-Tor may be humanity’s only hope.

Which has Jax wondering why a notorious troublemaker like her was given the job…

~~~

Love this series!! This book started out slow. The first half was mostly politics as Sirantha and her crew attempt to broker an alliance with the Ithtorian. But about half way through the book we get back into the action that makes this series such a great read. Looking forward to more of this series soon.

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Dark Nights, Dark Dreams (Sisterhood of the Sight, #1) by Savannah Russe

2011-04-24T11:10:00.000-04:00

Dark Nights, Dark Dreams by Savannah Russe

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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Introducing the sisterHOOD of the sight
The first in an all-new series featuring sexy paranormal romance, government secrets, and female special-ops with very special talents.

Government agent Susan Chase always kept her psychic abilities a secret. Now her secret is out and the C.I.A. needs her help. A highly classified all- female team of paranormal agents, Susan and her squad are now entrusted with the government's most unusual and dangerous assignments.

~~~

I really enjoyed this book. Look forward to more in the series so we can learn more about the other women in the group.

This book is a lot like Russe's Darkwing Chronicles, in that it deals with modern day terrorism and plots. I loved the supernatural twist, especially since it was more about psychic phenomena rather than the typical vampires.

The storyline was a bit odd and really was a little erratic, I guess, but it did come together and sets us up for more of a series about the AngelWay group and their future adventures. Looking forward to reading more about them.

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Peeling the Onion by Wendy Orr

2011-04-19T23:17:00.000-04:00

Peeling the Onion by Wendy Orr

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

~~~

Following an automobile accident in which her neck is broken, a teenage karate champion begins a long and painful recovery with the help of her family.
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A very powerful book about a young girl who gets into a life changing automobile accident. We follow her as she struggles with the physical and the emotional damage caused by the accident. Wonderfully touching story.

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Bio Rescue (Bio Rescue #1) by S.L. Viehl

2011-04-17T23:10:00.000-04:00

Bio Rescue by S.L. Viehl

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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A new interstellar adventure from the bestselling author of the Stardoc saga... Lieutenant Dair mu T'resa finds a new calling in life as an interstellar paramedic with a Bio Rescue team. But the entire project faces opposition from a lupine species with a hatred for native 'Zangians like Dair...

Lieutenant Dair mu T'resa heads a squadron of SEAL (surgically enhanced/altered lifeform) pilots responsible for the security of the quadrant containing her home world of Kevarzangia Two. She finds a new calling in life as an interstellar paramedic leading the first Bio Rescue team. But the entire project faces opposition from a lupine species with a hatred for native 'Zangians like Dair..

~~~

I think that I might have mentioned before that I love

Viehl's Stardoc series. I was excited to read this one since it takes place on K-2 which is where Stardoc started out. I was not disappointed. This book was just as hard to put down as the Stardoc books. Totally enjoyed the characters. Love the wonderful descriptions that Viehl gives us of her non-human characters and loved the storyline. Looking forward to getting my hands on 'Afterburn' soon so that I can read more about these wonderful characters and this fabulous world that Viehl has created.

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Blood Rites (The Dresden Files #6) by Jim Butcher

2011-04-13T15:56:00.000-04:00

Blood Rites by Jim Butcher

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~~~

The Barnes & Noble Review
Blood Rites, the sixth book in Jim Butcher's Dresden Files (Storm Front, Fool Moon, Grave Peril, et al.) pits Harry Dresden -- a Chicago detective who happens to be a powerful wizard -- against a mysterious killer who is systematically targeting people working on an X-rated movie set.

When an unlikely acquaintance of Harry's -- a self-absorbed vampire named Thomas -- asks him as a favor to help out a friend, Harry is compelled to agree. The friend, Arturo Genosa, is a motion picture producer in the process of starting his own adult entertainment company. But someone, or something, doesn't want him to succeed. One by one, his employees are dying incredibly gruesome and seemingly accidental deaths. Harry, posing as a production assistant, investigates.

What he uncovers is pure evil. Someone is ritualistically killing members of Genosa's staff with a powerful magic curse that involves raising a demon. As Harry digs deeper, he finds himself in the middle of a deadly vampiric civil war that not only puts his life in danger but also risks the lives of hundreds of innocents. Further probing leads Harry to some jaw-dropping insights, both about the vampires and about himself.

~~~

Excellent story in the life of Harry Dresden, professional wizard. Loved getting to know Thomas a bit more since I liked him in previous books. Thinking I like the path that Harry and Murphy seem to be headed down and enjoyed the story in general. Love this series and look forward to reading more soon.

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Death Masks (The Dresden Files, #5) by Jim Butcher

2011-04-03T22:56:00.000-04:00

Death Masks by Jim Butcher

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~~~
HARRY DRESDEN — WIZARD
Lost Items Found. Paranormal Investigations. Consulting. Advice. Reasonable Rates. No Love Potions, Endless Purses, or Other Entertainment.

Harry Dresden, Chicago's only practicing professional wizard, should be happy that business is pretty good for a change. But now he's getting more than he bargained for.

A duel with the Red Court of Vampires' champion, who must kill Harry to end the war between vampires and wizards...

Professional hit men using Harry for target practice...

The missing Shroud of Turin...

A handless and headless corpse the Chicago police need identified...

Not to mention the return of Harry's ex-girlfriend Susan, who's still struggling with her semivampiric nature. And who seems to have a new man in her life.

Some days, it just doesn't pay to get out of bed. No matter how much you're charging.
~~~

Non-stop, action packed chapter in the life of Harry Dresden. Great read with some great characters. Looking forward to the next book in the series.

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Summer Knight (The Dresden Files # 4) by Jim Butcher

2011-03-27T18:50:00.000-04:00

Summer Knight by Jim Butcher

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

~~~~
Private detective/wizard-for-hire Harry Dresden is suckered into tangling in the affairs of Faerie, where the fate of the entire world-and his soul-are at stake.

~~~~~

It has been a while since I spent time with Harry. Glad to get back. Another action packed, hard to put down, book. Lots going on but still a lot to be resolved. Looking forward to getting caught up with the series.

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Driven to Ink (Tattoo Shop Mystery #3) by Karen E. Olson

2011-03-21T18:06:00.000-04:00

Driven to Ink by Karen E. Olson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Brett Kavanaugh is a tattoo artist and owner of Vegas's hottest tattoo shop, The Painted Lady. And in her spare time, she does some sleuthing. After discovering the corpse of a Dean Martin impersonator-sporting a spider web tattoo and a clip cord from a tattoo machine wrapped around his neck-Brett infiltrates That's Amore, a drive-through wedding chapel, as a bride-to-be looking for the mark of a murderer...

Had a harder time getting into this book than I did the previous couple. Overall it was an enjoyable read. Almost too much going on, but it all came together in the end. I do like the path that Brett and Jeff's relationship is taking.

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Kiss of Death (Morganville Vampires, Book 8) by Rachel Caine

2011-03-16T20:24:00.001-04:00

Kiss Of Death by Rachel Caine

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
~~~~~

Vampire musician Michael Glass has attracted the attention of a big- time producer who wants to cut a demo and play some gigs-which means Michael will have to enter the human world. For this, he's been assigned escorts that include both a dangerous immortal as well as Michael's all-too-human friends. And with that mix of personalities, this is going to be a road trip from hell...

~~~~~

I always enjoy reading about the newest trouble that Claire and friends get into. They finally get a taste of freedom and of course end up in the middle of a war. Great storyline. We actually get to see Oliver show some humanity. I really enjoyed this book and very much look forward to the next in the series.

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Wanderlust (Sirantha Jax #2) by Ann Aguirre

2011-03-10T22:07:00.000-05:00

Wanderlust by Ann Aguirre

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

~~~
Broke and unemployed, "Jumper" Sirantha Jax accepts a diplomatic mission for the government— only to find herself up against Syndicate criminals, man-eating aliens, and her own grimspaceweakened body.
~~~

Enjoyed this second book in the Sirantha Jax series as much as if not more than the first book. Wonderful characters and lots of action. Really looking forward to getting my hands on the rest of this series soon.

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Grimspace (Sirantha Jax #1) by Ann Aguirre

2011-03-06T13:51:00.000-05:00

Grimspace by Ann Aguirre

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

~~~

As the carrier of a rare gene, Sirantha Jax has the ability to jump ships through grimspace-a talent which makes her a highly prized navigator for the Corp. Then a crash landing kills everyone on board, leaving Jax in a jail cell with no memory of the crash. But her fun's not over. A group of rogue fighters frees her...for a price: her help in overthrowing the established order.

~~~

At first I was not sure that I liked the author's writing style, but the more I read, the harder it got to put down. Ended up totally loving this book and look forward to reading more about Sirantha and March as well as their adventures.

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The World at the End of Time by Frederik Pohl

2011-02-27T23:39:00.000-05:00

The World at the End of Time by Frederik Pohl

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

~~~~~

"Frederick Pohl succeeds where others wouldn't even dare..."
The Denver Post

Wan-To was the oldest and must powerful intelligence in the universe, a being who played with star systems as a child plays with marbles. Matter occupied so tiny a part of his vast awareness that humans were utterly beneath his notice.

The colonists of Newmanhome first suffered the effects of Wan-To's games when their planet's stars began to shift, the climate began to cool down, and the colony was forced into a desperate struggle to survive.

Viktor Sorricaine was determined to discover what force had suddenly sent his world hurtling toward the ends of the universe. And the answer was something beyond the scope of his imagination -- even if he lived for 4000 years...

~~~~~

No I remember why I love Sci-fi so much. This was a great science fiction story. I loved how the two main characters' stories (Wan To - the godlike plasma being and Viktor the human being originally from Earth)were told simultaneously but separately. Very thought provoking!!

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Firestorm (Weather Warden, #5) by Rachel Caine

2011-02-21T16:31:00.000-05:00

Firestorm by Rachel Caine

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

~~~~

Putting aside the personal chaos that has plagued her, rogue Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin must rally the remnants of the Weather Warden corps against a double threat-the Djinn who have broken free from Warden control, and a cranky Mother Earth who's about to unleash her full fury against the entire world.

Another good chapter in Joanne, Weather Warden's life. This book was a little chaotic. A lot going on between Jo and David's relationship, their daughter Imara, the fight with the Djinn, Mother Nature waking up, and the end of the world. It almost got to be too much, but with another cliff hanger of an ending I want to keep reading the series. I am going to take a short break while I read some other books I owe, but will be back to the Weather Warden series very soon!

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Windfall (Weather Warden #4) by Rachel Caine

2011-02-12T09:34:00.000-05:00

Windfall by Rachel Caine

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin's stormy personal life is taking its toll on her patience-and her powers. But when the truce between the Wardens and the mystical Djinn starts to self-destruct, Joanne finds herself forced to choose between saving her Djinn lover, saving her Warden abilities-and saving humanity.
~~~~

Wow! What a life Joanne leads. I am so happy that I have this entire series on my bookshelves. Each book seems to contain a action packed week in the life Of Joanne, Weather Warden. I don't know what I would do if I had to wait 6 months or a year to see what happens next. Loving this series and am off to the next book!

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Chill Factor (Weather Warden #3) by Rachel Caine

2011-01-30T20:09:00.000-05:00

Chill Factor by Rachel Caine

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin has protected the human race from monster storms, been killed, reborn as a Djinn, and then restored to her original form. Now she's throwing the dice to stop an infinitely powerful, deeply disturbed kid-who is holed up in a Vegas hotel-from bringing on a new ice age.

~~~~~~~

Another great chapter in Joanne's very adventurous life. Lots of action and one heck of an ending. Looking forward to moving right on to book #4. Great series!

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Heat Stroke (Weather Warden #2) by Rachel Caine

2011-01-24T15:06:00.000-05:00

Heat Stroke by Rachel Caine

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Accused of murder, Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin was chased across the country—and killed—by a team charged with hunting down rogue Wardens.

Five days later, Joanne had a lovely funeral and was posthumously cleared of all charges. Her human life was over, but she had been reborn in Djinnhood. Now, until she masters her enhanced powers, Joanne must try to avoid being "claimed" by a human. But when a hazard that only a Djinn could sense infiltrates Earth's atmosphere, Joanne must somehow convince someone to do something about it—or the forecast will be deadly. So who said being all-powerful was going to be easy?

~~~~

Definitely more action packed than the first book. I like that it takes up right where "Ill Wind" ends. Very much enjoying this series. Can't wait to read about Joanne and David's next adventure.

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Ill Wind (Weather Warden #1) by Rachel Caine

2011-01-22T10:14:00.000-05:00

Ill Wind by Rachel Caine

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First in the new Weather Warden series...

Joanne Baldwin is a Weather Warden. Usually, all it takes is a wave of her hand to tame the most violent weather. But now, she's trying to outrun another kind of storm: accusations of corruption and murder. So, she's resorting to the very human tactic of running for her life...

Her only hope is Lewis, the most powerful warden known. Unfortunately, he's stolen not one but three bottles of Djinn-making him the most wanted man on earth. Still, she's racing hard to find him-before the bad weather closes in fast...

~~~~

Good start to a series that I have heard a lot of positive reviews on. Lots of action and just a touch of romance. Looking forward to working my way through this series.

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Vampires by John Steakley

2011-01-15T12:11:00.000-05:00

Vampire$ by John Steakley

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is bestselling author John Steakley's vampire classic: Vampires infest the modern world and a group of brave people--professional vampire killers--devote their lives to hunting them down.
~~~~~

This one is hard for me to give an opinion on. I like it. It was an interesting read and I very much want to see the movie (again) just to compare it to the book. It just was not a 'great' book. The writing style was not that great. The character development was not really great. The plot was just okay. But for some reason I really wanted to finish the book and I did find it very interesting. Glad that I read it and looking forward to seeing the movie to see how it ties in.

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Eyeliner of the Gods by Katie Maxwell

2011-01-06T07:28:00.000-05:00

Eyeliner of the Gods by Katie Maxwell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Synopsis
One of two books in which two girls discover an Egyptian archaeological dig is a lot more than surviving blistering heat and scorpions-hot guys, a cursed bracelet, and ancient tombs make it the adventure of a lifetime.

Publishers Weekly
In interlocking novels, two teens sweat it up in the tomb of Queen Nefertari's twin manicurists. They also separately stumble on a bracelet that may be cursed. In Nash's (You Are So Cursed) book, "chicken liver" Chloe feigns bravery; she faces a scorpion, leads her team to protest their lack of washing water and attracts the attention of wise Dr. Battista (and affection from Connor, a schoolmate from home). Chloe feels fake, but more complications arise when she accidentally pockets an artifact-the bracelet-and cannot seem to get rid of it. In Maxwell's (The Year My Life Went Down the Loo) book, Jan, a loquacious aspiring journalist, buys the bracelet in Cairo, not realizing it is stolen. She bonds with brooding Seth, but people say he's cursed, blaming him for thefts and accidents. When Jan learns the bracelet was stolen, she vows to solve the mystery, imagining journalistic fame and refusing to believe Seth is responsible. The puzzle is resolved at each book's end, though readers must finish both to understand all the pieces. Chloe and Jan interact, even planting their bracelet on each other after Jan catches Seth kissing Chloe, but readers may be disappointed that the books do not fully jibe (they include some but not all the same events and do not emphasize the same characters). Overall, this is fairly shallow fare, but the interesting premise and spunky protagonists make it fun. Ages 13-up.

~~~

This was a cute YA book. Little bit of mystery, little bit of romance. I was a little annoyed with the main character, Jan, and her immaturity. She is supposed to be 16 but acts more like a 12 year old. But overall it was an okay read. I am going to read the companion book -- Chloe, Queen of Denial as soon as I can put my hands on it. lol

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Alpha (Shifters, #6) by Rachel Vincent

2011-01-02T14:15:00.000-05:00

Alpha by Rachel Vincent

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The unscrupulous new Council chair has charged Jace, Marc and me with trespassing, kidnapping, murder and treason. Yeah, we've been busy. But now it's time to take justice into our own hands. We must avenge my brother's death and carve out the rot at the heart of the Council.

It's not going to be easy, and loss seems unavoidable, but I have promised to protect my Pride, no matter what. With a target on my back and Marc at my side, I'm heading for a final showdown that can—that will—change everything forever. A showdown I'm not sure I'm ready for.

But life never waits until you're ready.

~~~

Absolutely loved this book. So sad to see this series end, but definitely looking forward to reading more by Rachel Vincent. She brings her stories to life. I laughed, I cried and I cheered as I read about Faythe and her Prides adventures. Faythe had to do a lot of growing up and make some adult decisions. Wonderful final book in Rachel Vincent's were cat series.

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Strange Angels (Strange Angels #1) by Lilith Saintcrow, Lili St. Crow

2010-12-30T10:35:00.001-05:00

Strange Angels by Lilith Saintcrow

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dru Anderson has what her grandmother called “the touch.” (Comes in handy when you’re traveling from town to town with your dad, hunting ghosts, suckers, wulfen, and the occasional zombie.)

Then her dad turns up dead—but still walking—and Dru knows she’s next. Even worse, she’s got two guys hungry for her affections, and they’re not about to let the fiercely independent Dru go it alone. Will Dru discover just how special she really is before coming face-to-fang with whatever—or whoever— is hunting her?
~~~~~

Absolutely loved this book. Wonderful new series by an author that I have not read before. I do have her adult series and if this book is any indication I am going to enjoy it as well. I can not wait to get my hands on the next book in this series to see where Dru and Graves adventure leads to next.

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Sang Spell by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

2010-12-30T10:26:00.000-05:00

Sang Spell by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Phyllis Reynolds Naylor earned countless fans with the touching morality of Newbery Award-winning Shiloh and the laugh-out-loud realism of Achingly Alice. But aficionados may be surprised to find that Naylor's Sang Spell reads more like a haunting mystery. Grieving over the sudden death of his mother, Josh Vardy is reluctantly hitchhiking to Dallas (to begin a new life with his aunt), when he is mugged and left beside a remote mountain road. A woman driving a horse and cart takes him to a strange, fog-bound, primitive village, where there are no cars or telephones or electricity. The homespun villagers turn out to be a long-lost people of mixed ethnicity, called Melungeons. They accept Josh into their community, but will only answer his questions with evasiveness and enigmas. Mavis, a broad-shouldered young woman his own age, befriends Josh when he is put to work with the others gathering ginseng, a valuable root they refer to as "'sang" and trade once a year to Chinese merchants. Over and over again Josh tries to escape--by road and by river--but finds that somehow all routes lead back to this village that time has forgotten. When Josh finally joins in the villagers' rituals and celebrations, his feelings of despair about his own future begin to transform and heal. And after his loyalty to the Melungeons is tested, Josh finds that he is free at last to make the decision to leave.

~~~~~

Quick enjoyable read, but unfortunately the ending was a disappointment for me. I did enjoy the book but wish that the ending had not fallen so flat.

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The Fall (The Strain #2) by Guillermo Del Toro, Chuck Hogan

2010-12-30T10:19:00.000-05:00

The Fall by Guillermo Del Toro

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

From the authors of the instant New York Times bestseller The Strain comes the next volume in one of the most imaginative and frightening thriller series in many, many years Last week they invaded Manhattan. This week they will destroy the world.

The vampiric virus unleashed in The Strain has taken over New York City. It is spreading and soon will envelop the globe. Amid the chaos, Eph Goodweather—head of the Centers for Disease Control's team—leads a band out to stop these bloodthirsty monsters. But it may be too late.

Ignited by the Master's horrific plan, a war erupts between Old and New World vampires, each vying for control. At the center of the conflict lies a book, an ancient text that contains the vampires' entire history . . . and their darkest secrets. Whoever finds the book can control the outcome of the war and, ultimately, the fate of us all. And it is between these warring forces that humans—powerless and vulnerable—find themselves no longer the consumers but the consumed. Though Eph understands the vampiric plague better than anyone, even he cannot protect those he loves. His ex-wife, Kelly, has been transformed into a bloodcrazed creature of the night, and now she stalks the city looking for her chance to reclaim her Dear One: Zack, Eph's young son.

With the future of humankind in the balance, Eph and his team, guided by the brilliant former professor and Holocaust survivor Abraham Setrakian and exterminator Vasiliy Fet and joined by a crew of ragtag gangsters, must combat a terror whose ultimate plan is more terrible than anyone has imagined—a fate worse than annihilation.

Another excellent read in this fantastic trilogy. Don't know if I can wait for the final book to come out. Great new look into vampirism and the end of the world as we know it.

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The Strain (The Strain #1) by Guillermo Del Toro, Chuck Hogan

2010-12-30T10:16:00.000-05:00

The Strain by Guillermo Del Toro

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The visionary creator of the Academy Award-winning Pan's Labyrinth and a Hammett Award-winning author bring their imaginations to this bold, epic novel about a horrifying battle between man and vampire that threatens all humanity. It is the first installment in a thrilling trilogy and an extraordinary international publishing event.

The Strain They have always been here. Vampires. In secret and in darkness. Waiting. Now their time has come. In one week, Manhattan will be gone. In one month, the country. In two months—the world.

A Boeing 777 arrives at JFK and is on its way across the tarmac, when it suddenly stops dead. All window shades are pulled down. All lights are out. All communication channels have gone quiet. Crews on the ground are lost for answers, but an alert goes out to the CDC. Dr. Eph Goodweather, head of their Canary project, a rapid-response team that investigates biological threats, gets the call and boards the plane. What he finds makes his blood run cold.

In a pawnshop in Spanish Harlem, a former professor and survivor of the Holocaust named Abraham Setrakian knows something is happening. And he knows the time has come, that a war is brewing . . .

So begins a battle of mammoth proportions as the vampiric virus that has infected New York begins to spill out into the streets. Eph, who is joined by Setrakian and a motley crew of fighters, must now find a way to stop the contagion and save his city—a city that includes his wife and son—before it is too late.

Great start to a new trilogy that is a different take to the vampire genre of books currently out. Totally enjoyed it and look forward to the rest of the trilogy.

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Kiss of Crimson (Midnight Breed #2)

2010-11-24T10:42:00.000-05:00

Kiss of Crimson by Lara Adrian

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

He comes to her more dead than alive, a towering black-clad stranger riddled with bullets and rapidly losing blood. As she struggles to save him, veterinarian Tess Culver is unaware that the man calling himself Dante is no man at all, but one of the Breed, vampire warriors engaged in a desperate battle. In a single erotically charged moment Tess is plunged into his world—a shifting, shadowed place where bands of Rogue vampires stalk the night, cutting a swath of terror.

Haunted by visions of a dark future, Dante lives and fights like there is no tomorrow. Tess is a complication he does not need—but now, with his brethren under attack, he must shield Tess from a growing threat that includes Dante himself. For with one reckless, irresistible kiss, she has become an inextricable part of his underworld realm…and his touch awakens her to hidden gifts, desires, and hungers she never knew she possessed. Bonded by blood, Dante and Tess must work together to thwart deadly enemies, even as they discover a passion that transcends the boundaries of life itself….

Another enjoyable read in the Midnight Breed series.

This book focuses on Dante who we met briefly in book 1. This series still reminds me a lot of Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series.

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Kiss of Midnight (Midnight Breed #1) by Lara Adrian

2010-11-24T10:38:00.000-05:00

Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

He watches her from across the crowded dance club, a sensual black-haired stranger who stirs Gabrielle Maxwell’s deepest fantasies. But nothing about this night—or this man—is what it seems. For when Gabrielle witnesses a murder outside the club, reality shifts into something dark and deadly. In that shattering instant she is thrust into a realm she never knew existed—a realm where vampires stalk the shadows and a blood war is set to ignite.

Lucan Thorne despises the violence carried out by his lawless brethren. A vampire himself, Lucan is a Breed warrior, sworn to protect his kind—and the unwitting humans existing alongside them—from the mounting threat of the Rogues. Lucan cannot risk binding himself to a mortal woman, but when Gabrielle is targeted by his enemies, he has no choice but to bring her into the dark underworld he commands.

Here, in the arms of the Breed’s formidable leader, Gabrielle will confront an extraordinary destiny of danger, seduction, and the darkest pleasures of all. . . .

This series is very much like Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series.

A group of vampire warriors who are trying to save humanity from Rouge vampires who kill indiscriminately. Each book focuses on one particular warrior and how he meets and falls for his 'Breedmate'.

Good enough to keep reading the series but not nearly as involved as Ward's series.

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Philippa Fisher's Fairy Godsister by Liz Kessler

2010-11-06T13:17:00.000-04:00

Philippa Fisher's Fairy Godsister by Liz Kessler

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

New from the author of the best-selling Emily Windsnap series! A tale of a girl and her reluctant fairy guardian sparkles with magic and charm.

Philippa Fisher would like nothing more than to summon a fairy. Still, she is taken aback when Daisy, the new girl at school, announces that she is Philippa's fairy godmother — or godsister, since they're both the same age. Though the fairy is none too pleased with her mission, she is obliged to see it through and grant her human charge the customary three wishes. Now, if only Philippa would wish for something that makes her life better, not worse! With warmth and whimsy, the creator of Emily Windsnap whisks a traditional theme into a contemporary setting to tell a story of friendship, luck, and how we decide what we really want.

Bought this at the school bookfair for my 10 year old. She read it, liked it and insisted that I read it. I am glad that I did.

A cute tale of friendship with a couple of life lessons thrown in for good measure.

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The Diary of Pelly D by L.J. Adlington

2010-11-06T13:10:00.000-04:00

The Diary of Pelly D by L.J. Adlington

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Toni V is a teenager working for the City Five demolition crew. While drilling through concrete he unearths a battered water can containing a parcel wrapped in faded brown paper. Though he's supposed to turn over anything he salvages, Toni V smuggles the package back to his room, unwraps it, and finds a notebook.

This is the diary of Pelly D. It's totally secret, so if you're reading it I hate you already.

Toni V figures there's no harm in paging through it since he doesn't even know this Pelly D.

I'm not being arrogant. That's just the way it is at school. . . . I'm Pelly D. It's pretty simple. I RULE!

The more Toni V reads, the more he thinks Pelly D is rich, stupid, and petty. Yet he can't help starting to care for her, especially as her words slowly reveal the chilling state of her world.

I know it doesn't matter what gene tag you have -- Mum's made that clear again & again like a stuck CD. It's just . . . How can I face everyone at school if . . .

What happened to Pelly D? Toni V needs to know. And he has one clue:

Dig -- dig everywhere.

This was a good read recommended to me by my 14 year old daughter. She did a book report on it for school. Yes it reads a lot like The Diary of Anne Frank but it focuses on a new generation.

In the future the human species has ventured out into space and found life on a new planet. They have also recreated humanity in a test tube. We follow the life of a young somewhat spoiled teenage girl from normal everyday life through the tragedy of a holocaust of her type of human in a world originally created to prevent prejudice and racism. It really is a thought provoking peek into human beings.

Glad that dd recommended it to me and glad that I took the time to read it.

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Breed by Owl Goingback

2010-10-24T16:59:00.002-04:00

Breed by Owl Goingback

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

There is a dark underside to the sunny city of St. Augustine, Florida. An ancient evil is awakened in the Tolomato Cemetery, and is intent on stalking and destroying the citizens of the town. The evil creature, a Shiru, was believed to be a mythical beast from ancient Indian legend. The legend says the Shiru once roamed the earth attempting to mate with the women of the local Indian tribes in an effort to breed, but the Indians recognized the danger and hunted them down, destroying their hideous deformed offspring. But this legend is so old, that almost no one in modern day St. Augustine knows of it, and if they did they wouldn't believe it...that is until one, summoned by three women dabbling in black magic, crosses over from the dead. Now the Shiru is determined to get revenge on the human race, and to breed with a strong woman with an ancient blood line. Unbeknownst to her, local tour-guide, half Cherokee Ssabra Onih, is the Shiru's target. Fortunately for her, and the rest of the town, the spirit of Chief Tolomato comes to guide her, and enlist her help to hunt down the evil Shiru and send it back to the underworld. At the same time city police officer, Jack Colvin is working hard to track down the perpetrator of a series of grisly murders. Soon Colvin's and Onih's paths cross, and they join forces with the help of Chief Tolomato and other friendly spirits, in a desperate attempt to stop the seemingly invincible Shiru.

An okay read. I enjoyed the fact that it was set in St. Augustine. Being a Floridian and having visited St. Augustine on several occasions it was fun to read about it. The storyline was okay, the plot was good enough to keep me reading. Not a lot of 'horror', but some moments.

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Steward of Song by Adam Stemple,

2010-10-16T23:28:00.000-04:00

Steward of Song by Adam Stemple

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stemple explores the complications of family ties in this shimmering sequel to 2005's Singer of Souls. American musician Douglas Stewart has imprisoned his former mistress, the evil but beautiful former queen Aine, and now rules the Daoine Sidhe. Douglas's sister, Bridie, a former cop, thinks he killed their grandmother and is scouring Scotland for him. Their brother, Scott, an Iraq war veteran tormented by hallucinations, is stuck caring for the baby who has mysteriously appeared on his doorstep. Fortunately, Mundoo, a mysterious Native American god, is around to provide parenting advice. When the siblings reunite in the realm of the Sidhe, Bridie and Scott must decide how much Douglas, who seems to be taking a turn for the megalomaniacal, can be trusted with his newfound power. Stemple riffs off Native American and Celtic myths with ease while skillfully depicting a world where any move can have dire consequences.

Wonderful follow up to 'Singer of Souls'. In fact this book was twice as good as the first. I read it in a day which is always a sign that a book is too good to put down. Highly recommend this fantasy novel to all.

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Singer of Souls by Adam Stemple

2010-10-16T15:48:00.000-04:00

Singer of Souls by Adam Stemple

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Synopsis
From the son of fantasist and children’s author Jane Yolen, an assured debut novel of dark fantasy

Publishers Weekly
At the start of Stemple's wonderful fantasy debut, his first solo effort (he's collaborated with his mother, Jane Yolen, on children's music books), Douglas "Doc" Stewart, a recovering heroin addict and talented street musician, flees Minnesota for Scotland and his Grandma McLaren, who welcomes her grandson with open arms but warns, "I've buried three husbands and I'll bury you, too, if need be." Doc's subsequent success as a busker in Edinburgh strengthens his resolve to stay clean. During the Fringe arts festival, he meets a fey young woman, Aine, who gives him the gift of sight distilled in white powder he shoots into his arm. This ability to perceive the faery world puts him in grave danger after Aine is abducted by a strange priest, Father Croser, who uses his own magical sight for evil purposes. A "bogie" (or mischievous spirit) enlists Doc's assistance in rescuing Aine, but Doc soon finds himself drawn into a faeryland that's alarmingly similar to the world of addiction he thought he'd escaped forever and an erotic adventure that holds shocking consequences. Fans of Charles de Lint and Clive Barker will find much to like.

Great read. An interesting take on Fairies. Douglas was a likeable character and the storyline kept me wanting to read.

I did not care much for the ending, but am already well into the second book and I am enjoying it just as much as the first.

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Gentlemen Prefer Succubi (Succubus Diaries #1) by Jill Myles

2010-10-09T22:24:00.000-04:00

Gentlemen Prefer Succubi by Jill Myles

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Who knew an angel could get a girl in so much devilish trouble?

Jackie Brighton woke up in a dumpster this morning, and her day has only gotten weirder. Her breasts grew overnight, her sex drive is insatiable, and apparently she had her first one-night stand ever . . . with a fallen angel.

Of course, she only remembers gorgeous Noah’s enormous, er, package. And their steamy shower sex. Hmm . . . and the dark stranger whose bite transformed her into an immortal siren with a seductive Itch.

With help from Noah and fellow succubus Remy Summore, Jackie adapts to her new lifestyle—until she accidentally strikes a deal that sends her lover into the deadly clutches of the vampire queen and lands Jackie, Remy, and the queen’s wickedly hot right-hand man into the middle of a fierce battle for an ancient halo.

But how’s a girl supposed to save the world when the enemy’s so hard to resist

Has potential. I like the storyline, even if some of it is a bit far fectched. Looking forward to seeing where the author goes from here.

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Numbers (Numbers #1) by Rachel Ward

2010-10-09T22:23:00.000-04:00

Numbers by Rachel Ward

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Whenever Jem meets someone new, no matter who, as soon as she looks into their eyes, a number pops into her head. That number is a date: the date they will die.

Burdened with such an awful awareness, Jem avoids relationships. Until she meets Spider, another outsider, and takes a chance. But while they’re waiting to ride the Eye Ferris
wheel, Jem notices that all the other tourists in line flash the same number. Today’s number. Today’s date. Terrorists are going to attack London. Jem’s world is about to explode!

This was a good, but heart breaking book. I liked the characters and the storyline was okay. Will read the next book when I can get my hands on it.

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Lilith's Brood (Xenogenesis #1-3) by Octavia E. Butler

2010-10-02T14:02:00.000-04:00

Lilith's Brood by Octavia E. Butler

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dawn: After nuclear war destroys the world, Earths survivors are rescued by the miraculously powerful Oankali aliens- who survive by merging genetically with primitive peoples without their permission.

Adulthood Rites: Desperate to regain their world, childless humans seek to cleanse the alien taint by kidnapping hybrid children. But the raiders are blind to the truth of Earths new children.

Imago: The futures of both humans and aliens rest in one young beings successful metamorphosis into adulthood.

A very interesting read from Octavia Butler. Keeping in mind that this is actually 3 book sin one, it took some time to read, but was enjoyable.

Very interesting take on aliens taking over the world, and so much more that that. Thought provoking to say the least.

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Plaster and Poison (A Do-It-Yourself Mystery #3) by Jennie Bentley

2010-10-02T13:45:00.000-04:00

Plaster and Poison by Jennie Bentley AKA Bente Gallagher

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ex-New York designer Avery Baker left the bustle of the big city to start her own home renovation business in Maine. But as she renovates an old carriage house on behalf of a soon-to-be wed friend, she stumbles across a lifeless body-a person known all too well by the blushing bride. The small town is abuzz with big suspicions, and Avery realizes she must unravel a matrimonial murder.

Very much enjoying this series. Great characters, interesting mysteries and some nice do it yourself tips. A series that I am going to continue reading without a doubt.

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Spackled and Spooked (A Do-It-Yourself Mystery, #2) by Jennie Bentley

2010-08-15T19:59:00.000-04:00

Spackled and Spooked by Jennie Bentley

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A mystery surfaces behind the walls in the new Do-It-Yourself series.

Avery Baker and her boyfriend, Derek Ellis, are flipping a seriously stigmatized house rumored to have ghosts. Soon they’ll have even bigger problems — and this renovation project might haunt them forever.

Really enjoying this series. I love the characters and the mysteries are interesting although I have to admit that I figured this one out early.
Great cozy series!

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Fatal Fixer-Upper (A Do-It-Yourself Mystery, #1) by Jennie Bentley

2010-08-12T20:37:00.000-04:00

Fatal Fixer-Upper by Jennie Bentley

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First in the new Do-It-Yourself mystery series

Avery Baker was once a New York designer, but inheriting her aunt's old Maine cottage has le ...more First in the new Do-It-Yourself mystery series

Avery Baker was once a New York designer, but inheriting her aunt's old Maine cottage has led her down a new career path - home renovation. Now, with help from hunky handyman Derek Ellis, Avery starts learning the ABC's of DIY. But when the designer-turned-renovator finds clues that lead to a missing professor, she wonders if she can finish the house - without getting finished off in the process.

Very good start to what is a new series for me. I love the characters, the mystery was not over the top and the main character is not an all out sleuth, she just happens upon the mystery. Thinking that this is going to be a great series.

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A cage of butterflies by Brian Caswell

2010-08-11T12:03:00.001-04:00

A cage of butterflies by Brian Caswell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Mikki and the others live at 'the farm' - an advanced learning facility, a think-tank for a bunch of young people with very high IQs. But what is really going on at the farm? And what about the five much younger children knwn as the Babies, frail as butterflies?
Brian Caswell's new novel explores the powerof love - and presents readers with an intriguing jigsaw puzzle of suspense'

This book was okay. The plot seemed familiar, the story did not have a lot of depth, but it was an interesting idea and played out interestingly enough to keep me reading.

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One Foot in the Grave (The Halflife Chronicles, #1) by Wm. Mark Simmons

2010-08-02T22:54:00.000-04:00

One Foot in the Grave by Wm. Mark Simmons

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Christopher Csejthe doesn't believe in vampires--until he becomes one. He doesn't believe in witches or werewolves, either. Then they make him an offer he can't refuse.

Wonderful read. I love this author's writing style and sense of humor. Very much looking forward to more of his books.

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A Glimpse of Evil (Psychic Eye Mystery, #8) by Victoria Laurie

2010-07-31T13:41:00.000-04:00

A Glimpse of Evil by Victoria Laurie

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Professional psychic Abigail Cooper has received a cold welcome from some prickly investigators at the FBI. But that won't stop her from following her intuition...even if it brings her eye to eye with acts of true evil.

SOME COLD CASES ARE BETTER LEFT COLD...

As the FBI's newest civilian profiler, Abby Cooper has a tough job ahead of her. Not only does she have to use her powers of intuition to help solve a backlog of the bureau's cold cases, but she must also win over a frosty group of seasoned investigators and teach them how to develop their own perceptive abilities.

If that weren't challenging enough, Abby's sure that several of the cold cases are connected, but she's the only one who's convinced. Things go from bad to worse when Abby and another agent are suspended for not following protocol, leaving Abby and her old partner, Candice, to investigate on their own. To discover how these pieces fit together, Abby will have to call on every intuitive bone in her body...before she's the one put on ice.

Absolutely love this series!!

Abby and Dutch have moved to Texas along with their crew of friends -- to start new jobs. Abby has a job with Dutch working on solving cold cases for the FBI. I really enjoy the relationship between Dutch and Abby as well as the adventures that Abby finds herself constantly drawn into.

Can't believe that I am going to have to wait a year for the next book. Looks like it is time to drag out Victoria Laurie's Ghost hunter series.

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Hybrids (Neanderthal Parallax, #3) by Robert J. Sawyer

2010-07-24T23:28:00.000-04:00

Hybrids by Robert J. Sawyer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In Hominids, author Robert J. Sawyer introduced a character readers will never forget: Ponter Boddit, a Neanderthal physicist from a parallel Earth wh...more In Hominids, author Robert J. Sawyer introduced a character readers will never forget: Ponter Boddit, a Neanderthal physicist from a parallel Earth who was whisked from his reality into ours by a quantum-computing experiment gone awry - making him the ultimate stranger in a strange land.

Now, in Hybrids, Ponter Boddit and his Homo sapiens lover, geneticist Mary Vaughan, are torn between two worlds, struggling to find a way to make their star-crossed relationship work. Aided by banned Neanderthal technology, they plan to conceive their first hybrid child, a symbol of hope for the joining of their two versions of reality.

But after an experiment shows that Mary's religious faith - something completely absent in Neanderthals - is a quirk of the neurological wiring of Homo sapiens brains, Ponter and Mary must decide whether their child should be predisposed to atheism or belief. Meanwhile, as Mary's Earth is dealing with a collapse of its planetary magnetic field, her boss, the enigmatic Jock Krieger, has turned envious eyes on the unspoiled Eden that is the Neanderthal world.

I absolutely loved this ending book in the Neanderthal trilogy. We continue to follow the story Ponter and Mary as they attempt to make a live for themselves in the now connected parallel earths. I loved the progression of the story as well as the ending. Very good trilogy!!

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Humans (Neanderthal Parallax, #2) by Robert J. Sawyer

2010-07-24T23:25:00.000-04:00

Humans by Robert J. Sawyer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Robert J. Sawyer, the award-winning and bestselling writer, hits the peak of his powers in Humans, the second book of The Neanderthal Parallax, his trilogy about our world and parallel one in which it was the Homo sapiens who died out and the Neanderthals who became the dominant intelligent species. This powerful idea allows Sawyer to examine some of the deeply rooted assumptions of contemporary human civilization dramatically, by confronting us with another civilization, just as morally valid, that has made other choices. In Humans, Neanderthal physicist Ponter Boddit, a character you will never forget, returns to our world and to his relationship with geneticist Mary Vaughan, as cultural exchanges between the two Earths begin.As we see daily life in another present-day world, radically different from ours, in the course of Sawyer's fast-moving story, we experience the bursts of wonder and enlightenment that are the finest pleasures of science fiction. Humans is one of the best SF novels of the year, and The Neanderthal Parallax is an SF classic in the making.

A wonderful continuation of the story that started with 'Hominids'. This book starts immediately after the first one. Ponter has returned home to his Earth, but he can not forget about Mary who he left behind on the parallel earth. He convinces the High Gray Council to allow him to reopen the tunnel that connects his earth with Mary's earth in hopes of being able to exchange knowledge. We follow the story of the two worlds and the more personal story of Ponter and Mary's love affair. Very good book and a wonderful addition the the trilogy.

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Hominids (Neanderthal Parallax, #1) by Robert J. Sawyer

2010-06-26T23:04:00.000-04:00

Hominids by Robert J. Sawyer

Hominids is the first book of The Neanderthal Parallax, a trilogy that will examine two unique species of people. They are alien to each other, yet alike in their never-ending quest for knowledge and essential humanity. We are one of those species, the other is the Neanderthals of a parallel world where they, not Homo sapiens, became the dominant intelligence. In that world, Neanderthal civilization has reached heights of culture and science comparable to our own, but with a radically different history, society, and philosophy.

During a quantum-computing experiment, Ponter Boddit, a Neanderthal physicist, accidentally pierces the barrier between worlds and is transferred to our universe. He is almost immediately recognized as a Neanderthal, but only much later as a scientist. He is quarantined and studied, alone and bewildered, a stranger in a strange land. But Ponter is also befriended - by a doctor and a physicist who share his questing intelligence and boundless enthusiasm for the world's strangeness, as well as by Canadian geneticist Mary Vaughan, a woman with whom he develops a special rapport.

Meanwhile, Ponter's partner, Adikor Huld, finds himself with a messy lab, a missing body, suspicious people all around, and an explosive murder trial. How can he possibly prove his innocence when he has no idea what actually happened to Ponter?" Contact between humans an Neanderthals creates a relationship fraught with conflict, philosophical challenge, and the threat to the existence of one species or the other - or both. Yet their meeting is also rich in possibilities for cooperation and growth on many levels, from the practical to the esthetic to the scientific to the spiritual. In short, Robert J. Sawyer has done it again.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Excellent read. Hard to put down once I started. Great characters, great plot and lots of stop and think moments. Totally love the Parallel Earth plot and look forward to reading the next two in the trilogy!

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Beauty by Robin McKinley

2010-06-25T20:59:00.000-04:00

Beauty by Robin McKinley

A retelling of Beauty and the Beast

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A great re-telling of the classic fairy tale Beauty and the Beast. McKinley is a master at rewriting fairy tales. I loved this version of Beauty.

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The Forestwife (Forestwife Saga 1) by Theresa Tomlinson

2010-06-18T14:10:00.000-04:00

The Forestwife by Theresa Tomlinson

Mary, raised by her uncle, her mother dead, has no other choice among the nobility of medieval England. So she flees into the forest, seeking only her freedom.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What an enchanting tale of Mary, a girl who becomes Marian, the Forestwife and falls in love with Robert, her champion. A fabulous take on the story of Robin Hood with the emphasis on Marian. I absolutely loved it and can not wait to find the next 2 books in the trilogy.

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The Great God Pan by Donna Jo Napoli

2010-06-14T17:09:00.000-04:00

The Great God Pan by Donna Jo Napoli

Pan, both goat and god, is a curious being who roams nature searching, wondering, and frolicking with maenads and satyrs. He plays melodies on his reed flute, wooing animals to listen. He is a creature of mystery and delight. One day in his travels, Pan meets Iphigenia, a human raised as the daughter of King Agamemnon and Queen Clytemnestra. Pan is captivated by the young princess. Set against a landscape of myth and legend, Napoli’s latest tale is a love story wrought with sincere emotion and all that is great about the Gods.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a wonderful story. I loved mythology as a kid and this is a wonderful romp back into that childhood love. This is the story of Pan and his curse, his love of a human, and his sacrifice for that love.

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Midnight Predator (Den of Shadows, #4) by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

2010-06-13T14:55:00.000-04:00

Midnight Predator by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

Midnight, the ancient evil sanctuary of vampires and their human slaves that was burned to the ground centuries ago, has risen from the ashes to open its dark doors once more. And it's up to Turquoise Draka, famed human vampire hunter of the Bruja guild, to stop Midnight's founder and vampire most malevolent, Jeshikah. But once inside Midnight's walls, Turquoise discovers that instead of Jeshikah, the surprisingly benign vampire Jaguar is at the helm. Acting as a human slave, Turquoise tries to discern Jaguar's mysteriously kind motives as she works at planning Jeshikah's assassination. Meanwhile, her acting servitude is playing havoc with her memories, as she begins to recall the bleak days when she used to be a human slave herself, the time before her training as an elite Bruja warrior. With bitter memories of beatings and humiliations battling with her present suicidal assignment, Turquoise must do everything in her power to keep from blowing her cover and losing her sanity.

While this is listed as #4 in the Den of Shadows series, it is really a stand alone. There were no characters that I recognized from the earlier books and the only similarity is that the vampires are in both books. This is an entirely different group of vamps who live in a very different lifestyle than the previous books. This book evolves around the slave trade and a group called Midnight where vamps have human slaves.

The book itself was quite enjoyable, the characters well developed and overall a much more mature writing style than the previous books by this author.

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Shattered Mirror (Den of Shadows, #3) by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

2010-06-10T23:27:00.000-04:00

Shattered Mirror by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

Publishers Weekly
In this third installment in the series that began with In the Forests of the Night, Atwater-Rhodes focuses on teen witch (and vampire killer) Sarah Vida, who "never asked for anything more complex than the simple good and evil definitions she had been raised on" but gets more than she bargained for when she befriends vampire siblings Nissa and Christopher. This is trouble: it's harder to kill when you know your prey, and her mother the most infamous witch of all will disown her if she finds out about the friendship. Her conflict intensifies when she discovers that Christopher's twin is Nikolas, the same vampire who long ago murdered a Vida witch. Atwater-Rhodes chooses an interesting theme (no one is purely good or evil), and she builds some creative elements around it. SingleEarth, an organization of all creatures, for instance, includes vampires and witches who work together for peace. Her description of Nikolas, whose home and clothing are completely black and white, plays into this well, and provides for some striking visual images. Some of her writing, though, as in Sarah's final faceoff with Nikolas and Christopher, is over the top ("I want it as much as humans want to breathe, but I have control," Christopher says of Sarah's blood). Still, fans of the teen goth writer will likely find plenty to feast on here. Ages 12-up. (Sept.) Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a very good, quick read. Each of Atwater-Rhodes Den of Shadows books is like a little peek into this world that she has created. While this book has a couple of characters who were featured in the previous book it could very well be read as a stand alone.

Looking forward to more glimpses into this entertaining world of vampires and witches that this author has created.

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Demon in My View (Den of Shadows, #2) by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

2010-06-10T14:24:00.000-04:00

Demon in My View (Den of Shadows, #2) by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

Jessica isn't your average teenager. Though nobody at her high school knows it, she's a published author. Her vampire novel Tiger, Tiger has just come out under the pen name Ash Night. Jessica often wishes she felt as comfortable with her classmates as she does among the vampires and witches of her fiction. She has always been treated as an outsider at Ramsa High.

But two new students have just arrived in Ramsa, and both want Jessica's attention. She has no patience with overly friendly Caryn, but she's instantly drawn to handsome Alex, a cocky, mysterious boy who seems surprisingly familiar. If she didn't know better, she'd think Aubrey, the alluring villain from Tiger, Tiger had just sprung to life. That's impossible, of course; Aubrey is a figment of her imagination. Or is he?

Nail-bitingly suspenseful, here is the deliciously eerie follow-up to In the Forests of the Night, by the remarkable fifteen-year-old novelist Amelia Atwater-Rhodes.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a quick interesting read. I like the world of vampires and witches that the author has developed. It has been quite some time since I read her first book 'In the Forests of the Night' and I really felt like I was missing a lot of back story. I probably would have enjoyed this book much more if I had read it nearer to finishing the first book,since I have no recollection of the characters.

But keeping in mind the age of the author when she wrote these books, a good read.

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The Report Card by Andrew Clements

2010-06-06T22:30:00.000-04:00

The Report Card by Andrew Clements

SHHHHH
Nora Rose Rowley is a genius, but don't tell anyone. She's managed to make it to the fifth grade without anyone figuring out that she's not just an ordinary kid, and she wants to keep it that way.

But then Nora gets fed up with the importance everyone attaches to test scores and grades, and she purposely brings home a terrible report card just to prove a point. Suddenly the attention she's successfully avoided all her life is focused on her, and her secret is out. And that's when things start to get really complicated....

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I read this book with my 5th grade literacy group at school. I then proceeded to rave about it to the teachers and tell everyone I talked to that they needed to read it as well. This is an amazing book. What insight into the whole test taking dilemma faced by our kids in schools today!

I highly recommend this to all parents of school aged kids as well as all educators.

Fantastic book!!!!

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Keeper of the Earth (Daughter of Destiny, Book 4) by Jenna Solitaire

2010-06-06T22:27:00.000-04:00

Keeper of the Earth by Jenna Solitaire

Having found the Board of Fire, Jenna and Simon hurry to decipher the clues that will lead them to the Board of Earth—and mastery over the very land itself. But on their way to locate the tomb of a mythical English hero while fending off shadowy new attackers who want the Boards for themselves, an offer of help comes from a surprising source. Can Jenna and Simon trust this offer—or are they walking straight into a trap set by the one who has coveted the Boards for millennia?

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well this did not have the 'happily ever after' ending that I prefer, but it was an interesting end (or is it the end) to the series.

I enjoyed this entire series more than I thought I would and was please with the way that the last book went.

Hoping that maybe one day the author will continue the search.

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Keeper of the Flames (Daughter of Destiny, Book 3) by Jenna Solitaire

2010-05-29T14:08:00.000-04:00

Keeper of the Flames by Jenna Solitaire

My name is Jenna Solitaire, and I am the Keeper of the Boards. With the elements of Air and Water at my command, I now go in search for the most dangerous Board I have sought so far—the Board of Fire.

From the searing desert of the Middle East, Jenna and Simon travel to the ancient city of Pompeii, following the clues to the hiding place of the Board of Fire—also known as the Board of the Flames. But Peraud is hot on their trail, and is more determined than ever to claim the two Boards the Keeper already possesses. Jenna must also contend with her growing attraction to Simon, who is torn by his desire for her—and his sacred duty to the Church.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another wonderful book in the Daughter of Destiny series. Jenna is learning more about the boards, what it means to be the Keeper and about herself. She is maturing and changing as her struggle to control the boards continues.

Can not wait to read the final book and see how this all works out.

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Keeper of the Waters (Daughter of Destiny, Book 2) by Jenna Solitaire

2010-05-29T11:40:00.001-04:00

Keeper of the Waters by Jenna Solitaire

My name is Jenna Solitaire—and I am the Keeper of the Boards. I have the Board of Air. And every day, I hear the voice of the Board of Water calling to me. Somehow, I must find it and master its powers--before someone else does...

Having mastered the power of the Board of Air, Jenna travels to Jerusalem to find the Board of Water. She is accompanied by Simon Monk, who seeks the Boards on behalf of the Vatican. Jenna doesn’t trust Simon, but he’s her only source of information about the Boards. In Jerusalem, Jenna meets Saduj, a local guide who claims to be able to help them find the Board they seek. Simon is suspicious, but Jenna finds herself strangely attracted to Saduj. Jenna must find the Board before it awakens and causes unimaginable destruction. But will she lose her heart—and possibly her life—in the process?

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Quite enjoying this series. Surprisingly more than I expected. Fro a teen novel it is well written and quite the page turner. Looking forward to reading more.

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Keeper of the Winds (Daughter of Destiny, Book 1) by Jenna Solitaire

2010-05-22T18:25:00.000-04:00

Keeper of the Winds by Jenna Solitaire

My name is Jenna Solitaire and everything I thought I knew about myself, my family, and my future is wrong. My life is not my own. It never has been. I just didn’t know it—until now…

After the death of her grandfather, nineteen-year-old Jenna Solitaire finds an ancient wooden board hidden away in the attic of his house. Scorched by fire and covered in mysterious symbols, the board fascinates her—and scares her—at the same time. As does Simon Monk, the handsome stranger who has come into her life, claiming to know about the board. Even more frightening is the voice whispering in Jenna’s head, calling her “Keeper.” Does Jenna have power over the winds, as Simon claims? Is she truly the Daughter of Destiny?

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Surprisingly good start to a 4 books series. Enjoyed the idea and find the fact that the author is the main character interesting. Definitely going to read the next 3 now and then give them to my daughter to read.

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Dead in the Family (Sookie Stackhouse, #10) by Charlaine Harris

2010-05-16T13:04:00.000-04:00

Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris

Sookie Stackhouse has finally settled into a relationship with the Viking vampire Eric, and her errant brother Jason seems to have his life in order, too. But all the other people in Sookie’s life – Eric himself, her former lover Bill, her friend and boss Sam – are having family problems. Eric’s maker shows up with Eric’s ‘brother’ in tow, the ailing Bill can only be healed by a blood sibling, and Sam’s brother’s marriage is about to take place... or will it? The furor raised by the coming out of the two-natured has yet to settle; some people are just not ready to sit down to dinner with a man who turns into a dog. And Sookie herself is still recovering from her last ordeal. She’s definitely improving, physically and mentally, but she’s always going to have some dark moments now. The werewolves tell her that there have been strange and ominous passers-by in the Stackhouse woods; now Sookie is about to come face-to-face with one of her more distant relatives...

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Somewhat disappointed in this installment of Sookie. I guess I am just expecting too much, but I felt like I had been cheated after waiting a long year for the next book. Too many politics and not enough action. Sookie's obsession with family bothers me. She needs to understand that family is not always blood relatives. Lots of bits of things going on in this book, but no closure on most of it.

Hoping that we see a lot more action in the next Sookie when it comes out, sigh, next year.

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Deep Blue (Beck Easton Adventure, A) by Tom Morrisey

2010-05-09T10:32:00.000-04:00

Deep Blue by Tom Morrisey

A suspense-filled search for hidden treasureand hidden truths.
While University of Michigan graduate student Jennifer Cassidy is researching the family history of Cecilia Sinclair, a long-deceased Southern expatriate, she discovers that something of great value is hidden in a spring near the family plantation in Florida. Jennifer contacts Beck Easton, a cave diver and former Marine, to help her. When Beck finds a map, it sets off a race for gold, and both pro- and anti-Cuban groups follow Jennifer and Beck as they travel from Florida to the Bahamas to Lake Huron, tracking clues that pre-date the Civil War.
After nearly losing her life, Jennifer is confronted with the meaning of Matthew 6:19-21, Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. And she realizes that she will have to make a decisionwill she pursue gold and glory or God?

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Very interesting read. I read this because my own little hick town is featured in the book. I have to say that I was very pleasantly surprised by this book. Wonderful mystery that leads to a very interesting take on history. Main characters were enjoyable and enjoyed reading about the diving aspects of the book. Would definitely read more by this author if I came across it.

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Undead and Unwelcome (Undead, #8) by MaryJanice Davidson

2010-05-01T22:29:00.000-04:00

Undead and Unwelcome by MaryJanice Davidson

Betsy Taylor has problems that only a vampire queen/suburban wife could possibly understand. Such as taking the body of her werewolf friend Antonia-who died in her service-to Cape Cod, where she's not sure if the Wyndham werewolves will welcome her with fangs or friendship. Meanwhile, her posse back in St. Paul is sending frantic e-mails alerting Betsy to her half-sister's increasingly erratic behavior. Looks like the devil's daughter is coming into her own-and raising hell.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another fun chapter in Queen Betsy's life. These are such quick reads that I almost feel cheated. It goes by so quickly and then we have to wait, wait, wait for the next one.

I am looking forward to seeing what happens with Laura in the next book.

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Scar Night (Deepgate Codex, #1) by Alan Campbell

2010-05-01T11:57:00.000-04:00

Scar Night by Alan Campbell

An insane angel, a bitter young assassin, a drunkard desperate to enact a father's revenge, and a naive boy angel wrapped in a dark steampunk setting...

In the city of Deepgate, suspended by chains over a seemingly bottomless abyss, there are two angels: one, an untested boy, the last of his line, forbidden to fly and unable even to wield the great heirloom sword of his legendary ancestors; the other, a psychotic murderess mad for revenge - or redemption.
When one of the city's own turns against its people, bringing enemies to its doorstep, both seek a powerful magic at the bottom of the chasm - and learn that what lies below is far more sinister than they've been taught to expect.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This was an interesting read. Different than my typical read and I am looking forward to reading the next in the series, but I do have a couple of complaints. This book was mostly about world building, but I still have trouble imagining what Deepgate is. We get the basics, but there seems to be a lot missing. How and why was Deepgate created? What is the abyss? I just feel like the author spent a lot of time getting us acquainted with the world, but did not go into any depth.

The characters are well developed and likable. I really want to read more about what happens with Dill, Rachael and Carnival.

For me the books was just getting good when it ended. So I am looking forward to the next book which I hope to be able to get to soon.

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Roadkill (Cal Leandros, #5) by Rob Thurman

2010-04-17T12:58:00.000-04:00

Roadkill by Rob Thurman

New from the national bestselling author of Deathwish

It's time to lock, load, and hit the road...

Once, while half-human Cal Leandros and his brother Niko were working on a case, an ancient gypsy queen gave them a good old-fashioned backstabbing. Now, just as their P.I. business hits a slow patch, the old crone shows up with a job.

She wants them to find a stolen coffin that contains a blight that makes the Black Death seem like a fond memory. But the thief has already left town, so the Leandros brothers are going on the road. And if they're very, very lucky, there might even be a return trip...

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I really like this series but this book was just okay for me. Not a lot of the action that I have come to expect from the Leandros brothers. Much more philosophical musing in this book as compared to previous books.

On the plus side it was interesting to learn more about Rafferty and his cousin, Catcher, who we met in a previous book.

I didn't care for the Cal/Auphe aspect or even the Cal/Delilah line.

Hoping the next book goes back to what was great in the earlier books.

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Makeovers Can Be Murder (A Fat City Mystery, #3) by Kathryn Lilley

2010-04-10T14:31:00.000-04:00

Makeovers Can Be Murder by Kathryn Lilley

Plus-size reporter Kate Gallagher is facing the ultimate challenge-wearing a bikini for an upcoming assignment about weight loss scams. Sticking to her diet won't be easy-especially since her love life is already wasting away.

Kate learns she's not alone at a meeting of a women's support group, the Newbodies-where her friend Lila confides that her marriage is in trouble. When Lila turns up dead, Kate's suspicions immediately fall on the husband. But that's before she finds out that Lila wasn't the first "Newbody" to die. Apparently a killer has an appetite for plus-sized victims...

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was another good read in the Fat City Mystery series. The mystery was okay although I thought that the ending was a bit rushed and maybe a little over the top.

Not really liking where the author is taking Kate's love life but I get the feeling that we have not seen the end of Kate and Jonathan.

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A Killer Workout (A Fat City Mystery, #2) by Kathryn Lilley

2010-04-05T00:28:00.000-04:00

A Killer Workout by Kathryn Lilley

Plus-sized reporter Kate Gallagher decides to report for duty at Body Blast, a boot camp-style fitness program. But then her roomie is discovered with a broken neck at the foot of the climbing wall. It’s not the first suspicious accident at the camp—another woman recently fell to her death during a Wilderness Challenge.

Kate knows that losing weight is hard, but now it looks like it’s turning into mortal combat.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was a little darker and not quite as much fun as her last book. I still enjoyed it, but the humor that I so loved in her first book was missing in most of this book. Although I will say that there is a scene at the end of the book that redeemed it as far as the humor goes. I was laughing out loud and could not stop. Kate's butt really saves the day as well as the humor in the book.

I like where the author is going with Kate's love life and the mystery was interesting to figure out. Looking forward to the next book in the series as well.

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A Host of Dragons: Dragon Delasangre #4 by Alan F. Troop

2010-03-31T10:42:00.001-04:00

A Host of Dragons: Dragon Delasangre, 4 by Alan F. Troop

A vessel bearing twelve mysterious passengers arrives at a marina near Peter DelaSangre's secluded island home, heralding the arrival of more sinister events-including the kidnapping of Peter's daughter and a corporation's attack against the family fortune. Now, Peter must uncover the ties that binds these misfortunes together, before it's too late.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Enjoyed this book of the Dragon DelaSangre series, just as I enjoyed the previous 3. I am kind of sad to think that there may be no more.

Peter find himself under attack, both personally and professionally, but has no idea who is behind the attack. Of course Derek, his wayward brother in law is involved. In his search for a mate Derek manages to bring the wrath of the European Dragons to Peter's doorstep. When a Host of Dragons attack Peter and his family he has no choice but to use all of his resources to fight back.

I actually begin to like Derek in this book and really would love to see more of what happens to the DelaSangre family in the future. Maybe the author will consider writing another book in the future.

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Shift (Shifters, #5) by Rachel Vincent

2010-03-28T20:28:00.000-04:00

Shift by Rachel Vincent

Being the first female werecat enforcer isn't easy. Scars accumulate, but I'm stronger in so many ways.

As for my personal life? It's complicated. Choices worth making always are. Ever since my brother's death and my father's impeachment, it's all I can do to prevent more blood from spilling. Now our Pride is under attack by a flight of vicious thunderbirds. And making peace with our new enemies may be the only way to get the best of our old foe.

With the body count rising and treachery everywhere, my instincts tell me to look before I leap. But sometimes a leap of faith is the only real option….

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I remember back to when I read the first book in this series and did not care a lot for it. Too much 'cat' terminology, I think. lol Now I pre-order them because I can not wait to read the next one.

This one was non-stop action packed from beginning to end. Faythe and her Pride are attacked by Thunderbirds, who up until now were thought to be practically extinct. Further investigation leads Faythe to the truth, Calvin Malone has set up her Pride to take the fall for a crime against the Thunderbirds that one of his own enforcers is guilty of. Faythe really begins to come into her own as the next Alpha in line and starts taking charge as she has to figure out a way to prove her Pride's innocence as well as save the life of Kaci, the young tabby that she has grown to love.

We see the Prides move closer to civil war as well as see Faythe struggle with her relationships with both Marc and Jayce. Lots of things left to come in the next book and I don't want to wait till October!!

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Magic In the Blood (Allie Beckstrom, #2) by Devon Monk

2010-03-24T22:16:00.000-04:00

Magic In the Blood by Devon Monk

Working as a Hound-tracing illegal spells back to their casters-has taken its toll on Allison Beckstrom. But even though magic has given her migraines and stolen her recent memory, Allie isn't about to quit. Then the police's magic enforcement division asks her to consult on a missing persons case. But what seems to be a straightforward job turns out to be anything but, as Allie finds herself drawn into the underworld of criminals, ghosts, and blood magic.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Really like this series. It is a bit of a different twist on the whole paranormal scene. Just magic, but magic with a twist. I love the characters and the relationships between the characters. Love the storyline and look forward to reading more in this series as soon as I can get my hands on them.

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Xombies: Apocalypticon by Walter Greatshell

2010-03-20T10:36:00.001-04:00

Xombies: Apocalypticon by Walter Greatshell

Survivors of a cataclysmic zombie-making plague leave a temporary safety of a refitted nuclear sub to scavenge for food and supplies on land. But they soon find themselves facing new terrors on the surface and mutiny below.

My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I have to say that I was disappointed in this book. Having recently read the prequel I suppose that I was expecting the story to continue from where it left off, with Lulu and the other survivors struggling to find the cure for Agent X. But for me this book was all over the place. Lulu and her 'boys' were featured very little in the plot and really seemed like more of an after thought. There really was not any one character who stood out, with the exception of Sal Deluca.
The timeline kept bouncing around, to the point of confusion. We jumped from having Xombies, to having some mutation of Xombies that are so unrealistic that, imo at least, it completely took away from the plot. It was like the author decided to change the story about half way through the book. We are left with more questions than before and no resolution in sight. I understand that the author has a couple more books planned but I can't imagine where he plans to go from here. When all hope for humanity is taken away, is there really anywhere else to go?

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Magic to the Bone (Allie Beckstrom, #1) by Devon Monk

2010-03-14T11:16:00.000-04:00

Magic to the Bone by Devon Monk

Devon monk is casting a spell on the fantasy world...

Using magic means it uses you back, and every spell exacts a price from its user. But some people get out of it by Offloading the cost of magic onto an innocent. Then it’s Allison Beckstrom’s job to identify the spell-caster. Allie would rather live a hand-to-mouth existence than accept the family fortune—and the strings that come with it. But when she finds a boy dying from a magical Offload that has her father’s signature all over it, Allie is thrown back into his world of black magic. And the forces she calls on in her quest for the truth will make her capable of things that some will do anything to control...

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Absolutely loved this book. For me at least it is a much different take on magic and they way that it is used. In a world where magic was discovered 30 years ago and is now a commodity that can be harvested, stored and used by anyone, there is a need for laws regulating it's use, because magic use has it's price. The price is pain in one form or another. Of course humans have also discovered a way to pass that price off to others and that is where Allie comes into the picture. She is a Hound, someone who can trace the source of illegally offloaded magic back to the original caster. When she takes on a job to see who offloaded magic use to a Boy who is dying because of it, she is drawn back into her father's world, something that she walked away from years ago.

This book really is a non-stop action ride from start to finish. I love the characters, the plot and the possibilities for future books. Going to have to get my hands on the other 3 books in the series so far as the author has me hooked!

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Pretty In Ink (Tattoo Shop Mystery #2) by Karen E. Olson

2010-03-13T11:20:00.001-05:00

Pretty In Ink by Karen E. Olson

Murder in the city of sin...

Brett Kavanaugh is a tattoo artist and owner of Vegas's hottest tattoo shop, The Painted Lady. And in her spare time, she does some sleuthing. After Brett and company ink Sin City's newest drag queens, they're invited to opening night at the strip's glamorous Nylon and Tattoos show-which ends in disaster when a stranger with a Queen of Hearts tattoo fatally injures Britney Brassieres with a champagne cork. And when another drag queen is found poisoned, it looks like someone's targeting Vegas's fabulous femmes...

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Love this series. The characters are being more fully developed and the plot is interesting. I am curious where the relationship between Bret and Jeff is going to go. The plot was multi-layered and interesting to read. Really looking forward to more books in this series. Going on my pre-order list!

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Dying to Be Thin (A Fat City Mystery, #1) by Kathryn Lilley

2010-03-06T13:30:00.001-05:00

Dying to Be Thin by Kathryn Lilley

The first course in a sleuth series sure to satisfy.

In just a week, plus-sized TV producer Kate Gallagher has been laid off because of her weight and dumped by her boyfriend. So she enrolls in a weight loss clinic in Durham, NC. Soon, Kate's ready to sell her soul for some sweets. But when a diet guru turns up dead with fondue forks where his eyes were, Kate loses her appetite-and has a breaking story on her hands...

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Great start to what is no doubt going to be a fun cozy mystery series. Found myself laughing out loud several times. Kate is a snarky, fun, full of life character and I am very much looking forward to the next couple books in the series, which luckily I have sitting right here.
I love the 'diet' tips at the beginning of each chapter that are taken straight from 'The Little Book of Fat-busters by Mimi Morgan'.
Seems like this series will be following Kate on her never-ending struggle to lose weight, which most of us can relate to at one point in our lives or another. The humor that the author uses is fantastic. You can tell that she knows of what she writes. :grin:

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Xombies by Walter Greatshell

2010-02-28T08:43:00.003-05:00

Xombies by Walter Greatshell

Spreading at an astonishing speed, the "Agent X" virus transforms everyone it touches into maniacal monsters. Lulu Pangloss, one of the few as yet uninfected, flees to the last safe place on earth--but what's awaiting her there is as unexpected, and as frightening, as what's followed her.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I don't even know where to start with this book. I enjoyed the book. The author could have smoothed out the flow of the book a little. It was a bit bumpy in places, but the plot was a very interesting one. I am very much interested in the sequel due out in March as I want to see how he goes from here. I did not like all of the things that happened in the book, but then I tend to be a 'happily every after' person and this book most definitely did have a happily ever after ending. Several thought provoking areas in the book and an interesting take on just how our society would handle the end of the world as we know it.

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Grave Secret (Harper Connelly Mystery, #4) by Charlaine Harris

2010-02-24T23:00:00.000-05:00

Grave Secret by Charlaine Harris

Lightning-struck sleuth Harper Connelly and her stepbrother Tolliver take a break from looking for the dead to visit the two little girls they both think of as sisters. But, as always happens when they travel to Texas, memories of their horrible childhood resurface.

To make matters worse, Tolliver learns from his older brother that their father is out of jail and trying to reestablish contact with other family members. Tolliver wants no part of the man- but he may not have a choice in the matter.

Soon, family secrets ensnare them both, as Harper finally discovers what happened to her missing sister, Cameron, so many years before.

And what she finds out will change her world forever.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Quite an enjoyable Harper Connelly book. I am glad that we finally get some closure on the baggage that Harper has had to carry with her. Harper has never been one of my favorite Charlaine Harris characters. She is a little too damaged and needy for my liking, but I did enjoy the way that this book wrapped up a lot of the stuff that Harper has carried with her.
I like the way that Charlaine Harris left us with a possible opening for future books, but a conclusion that we can live with if no more come.

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Prey (Shifters, #4) by Rachel Vincent

2010-02-21T21:50:00.000-05:00

Prey by Rachel Vincent

Sometimes playing cat and mouse is no game…

Play? Right. My Pride is under fire from all sides, my father's authority is in question and my lover is in exile. Which means I haven't laid eyes on Marc's gorgeous face in months. And with a new mother and an I-know-everything teenager under my protection, I don't exactly have time to fantasize about ever seeing him again.

Then our long-awaited reunion is ruined by a vicious ambush by strays. Now our group is under attack, Marc is missing and I will need every bit of skill and smarts to keep my family from being torn apart. Forever.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Love, love, love this series. This book takes up right where the last one left off. Manx is going on trial for her life while dealing with the aftermath of the abuse she faced in captivity. Kaci, the young werecat that Faythe rescued from herself, is trying to deal with the shock of her first shift in which she killed her mother and sister. As a result she refuses to shift and it is slowly killing herself.

Amidst all of this Marc disappears and it is up to Faythe to find him before it is too late. Unknowingly stepping into an elaborate plot against her father, Faythe must face tragedy as she refuses to believe that she has lost Marc forever. What an action packed, heartwrenching chapter in the lives of the Pride. I can not wait till the next book comes out!

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Doom with a View (Psychic Eye Mystery, Book 7) by Victoria Laurie

2010-02-18T16:01:00.000-05:00

Doom with a View by Victoria Laurie

Business has been frustratingly slow for Abby. She needs any new commission she can get, even if it means agreeing to a job with the FBI that puts her at the center of a political struggle between two powerful agents, one of whom is flintly lead investigator and confirmed skeptic Brice Harrison. Abby's skills - and patience - are continually tested as she works to convince Harrison that she's the real deal and can help him locate three teens who have mysteriously disappeared.

Abby's intuition tells her these are not random abductions - and she foresees another victim being kidnapped. To get to the bottom of the case, she and Harrison will have to put aside their differences and work together to find the connection between the missing kids. And to do that, Abby will have to win over Harrison while keeping her psychic eye wide-open.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another fantastic book in the Psychic Eye mystery series. This book was great because it is the beginning of a new chapter in Abby's life. Her involvement with the FBI on a case leads to many wonderful changes and I am loving where this series is going. I love all of the characters and tend to connect with them. I laughed out loud, I got teary eyed and I could not stop reading. Love this series and hope that the ending of this book is the beginning of many more to come!

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Deadtown (Deadtown, #1) by Nancy Holzner

2010-02-14T21:14:00.001-05:00

Deadtown by Nancy Holzner

They call it Deadtown: the city’s quarantined section for its inhuman and undead residents. Most humans stay far from its borders — but Victory Vaughn, Boston’s only professional demon slayer, isn’t exactly human…

Vicky’s demanding job keeping the city safe from all manner of monsters is one reason her relationship with workaholic lawyer (and werewolf) Alexander Kane is in constant limbo. Throw in a foolhardy zombie apprentice, a mysterious demon-plagued client, and a suspicious research facility that’s taken an unwelcome interest in her family, and Vicky’s love life has as much of a pulse as Deadtown’s citizens.

But now Vicky’s got bigger things to worry about. The Hellion who murdered her father ten years ago has somehow broken through Boston’s magical protections. The Hellion is a ruthless force of destruction with a personal grudge against Vicky, and she’s the only one who can stop the demon before it destroys the city and everyone in it.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This was okay for a Paranormal Urban Fantasy. Being a huge zombie fan I was hoping that this book would focus on the zombie angle, but sadly the zombies are really a very minor part of the plot. The focus is almost solely on demons. The main character being a shape shifting demon slayer. The characters are okay, the plot was all right and I will read the next in the series when it comes out. The ending came together and just when it was getting good, it was over, which at least makes me eager for the next book.

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The Seadragon's Daughter: Dragon Delasangre, 3 by Alan F. Troop

2010-02-06T14:54:00.000-05:00

The Seadragon's Daughter: Dragon Delasangre, 3 by Alan F. Troop

Peter DelaSangre now enjoys a peaceful existence with his family on a private island retreat just off the coast of Miami. Then he receives an unexpected visitor named Lorrel, a member of a sea-dwelling dragon race who will force Peter to face his bloodline's secret past-revelations that may separate Peter from his family forever.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Totally enjoyed this chapter in Peter's life. When a strange female shows up on his island, poisons him and leads him to the home of a sea dwelling version of dragons, Peter must fight to save his own life as well as that of his wife. I really have enjoyed this series. Sadly I don't have #4 in my hands or I would go right to reading it. Good news is that it is owed to me and I will be able to read it soon.

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Dragon Moon: Dragon Delasangre, 2 by Alan F. Troop

2010-02-06T14:48:00.000-05:00

Dragon Moon: Dragon Delasangre, 2 by Alan F. Troop

The confessions of the dragon Peter DelaSangre continue four years after the murder of his beloved wife.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another good read in the Dragon Delasangre series. I think that I liked this one even more than the first book. I really did not like Elizabeth, Peter's first wife, and so was not too sad to see her die in the first book. I love Chloe and really enjoyed this chapter in Peter Delasangre's life. Really enjoying this series!

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The Dragon Delasangre: Dragon Delasangre, 1 by Alan F. Troop

2010-01-29T19:07:00.000-05:00

The Dragon Delasangre: Dragon Delasangre, 1 by Alan F. Troop

Here, at last, are the confessions of one Peter DelaSangre, who tells of his life on an island off the coast of Miami...of his lonely balancing act between the worlds of humans and dragons...and of the overwhelming need that gives his life purpose: To find a woman of his own kind...

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I am a little surprised at just how much I enjoyed this book. It is not in any way to be confused with the typical Paranormal Romance books available in this genre. Peter DeLeSangra is a Dragon. A cold blooded, human eating. dragon who can shape shift into human form as well. I bounced back and forth from feeling revulsion for Peter to feeling pity for him. The storyline introduces us to Peter well into his life, as he searches for his life mate, a female Dragon, who will be his wife and life partner. I am not even sure what it was that kept me so engrossed in the story of Peter's life, but I was and I picked up book #2 immediately after finishing this one last night.

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Crooks, Crimes, and Christmas (Wwl Mystery, 473) by Susan Slater, Ed Gorman, Irene Marcuse

2010-01-25T16:13:00.000-05:00

Crooks, Crimes, and Christmas by Susan Slater

Four Festive Tales Of Foul Play . . . With All The Trimmings

A Way to the Manger
Susan Slater

A local teen is missing and Native American psychologist Ben Pecos begins to piece together some disturbing facts. The girl, a high school basketball star, harbors a dark and painful secret, one that puts her on a collision course with a ring of human predators.

The Santa Claus Murders
Ed Gorman

Iowa lawyer turned private eye Sam McCain stumbles over a dead Santa at a Black River Falls Christmas party. Sam knows the real tragedy is that the victim will hardly be mourned. Sam begins to look for answers and finds deception, blackmail and . . . A second body . . .

What Child Is This
Irene Marcuse

It's Christmas morning and New York Social worker Anita Servi goes out to buy bagels -- and comes home with a baby. The infant belongs to a struggling addict trying to go clean, but it was the woman's sister who handed Anita the baby -- as well as the mystery of his mother's murder.

The Gold Band
Michael Jahn

When NYPD Captain Bill Donovan finds a gold ring inside a Christmas goose, his curiosity gets the better of him. His investigation leads to Manhattan's meat district, where he finds himself sorting through a rash of break-ins, a henhouse full of ex-cons and the kind of mayhem that promises a holiday to remember.

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I almost gave up reading this book after finishing the first story - 'A Way to the Manger'. I found it hard to get into the characters. Seemed like I was missing a lot of background information about the relationships involved. There really was not a mystery per say and the plot itself was not that entertaining. But I stuck it out and read the next story which was much more interesting.

I actually enjoyed all of the last 3 stories about equally. Each was interesting in it's own way.

I really liked the main characters in all 3 of the stories and would not mind picking up some of the series books that they are in.

Overall an interesting introduction to some new authors.

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