My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Richard, a self made American, finds himself wanting an estate in the countryside of England. Juliet finds herself under the thumb of her deceased husband's brother and with an estate mounting bills. The solution - marriage. Juliet has hope to open Richard's heart afterall the physical and desire is not the issue. His business keeps him away until Christmas. A possible business investor, relatives, friends, staff, and step-children can overrun his house, can they free the ghosts that cling to him and offer a chance in the season of miracles and a wife that melts the ice with love.
I admit that with the Holidays coming upon us, I find myself wanting and craving stories like this.. but this was well written, secondary characters thoroughly developed, and multi challenges that are overcome. For the Hallmark addict to the Happily Ever Afters this is a must read.
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Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Review: Tis The Season To Be Sinful By: Adrienne Basso
Monday, November 21, 2011
Review: Awake at Dawn By: C.C. Hunter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ms. Hunter has done it again, capturing Shadow Falls and Kylie Gaylen. This book starts unraveling Kylie's gifts one by one as they appear in her - from the liking blood to the rapid running - little by little she is coming into her own, as other people take an interest in her, danger is lurking too close.
We have Kylie dealing with the "normal" issues, finding her real dad Daniel's parents, her mom and step-dad seperating, the torn heart between Derek who is there for her and eases her and Lucas whom she dreams of.
The continuing saga with her friends and counselor make this a great read and has me wanting more from this series - but I must wait til April 2012.
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Thursday, November 17, 2011
Review: Lips Like Sugar Edited by: Violet Blue
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Maybe I was looking for something a bit more than what seemed to be simply very short essays of fantasies. 19 "stories" in 167 pages ranging from boredom to wishing a longer story, more development. I don't blame the book, I blame my expectations of it from some of the reviews.
So, let me be honest.. would I get this or recommmend it, not really but about 4 stories really stand out and let you, the reader, get a taste and style of writing from multiple authors.
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Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Review:The Annotated Peter Pan Centennial Edition By: JM Barrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A must have for all that cherish and hold onto ones youth, dreams and that inner child within. A great collection of the beginning, through Disney and beyond of the classic and the story itself is included. Flip through or read all through the chapters -- it will have you reliving adventures of the imagination that you thought you grew out of and have you crying out - I do believe in fairies.
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Review: Carrier of the Mark By: Leigh Fallon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Megan Rosenberg finds herself in Ireland after her mother had died. A spooky monk appears to her more and more since the accident and the mysterious boy Adam along with his rumored witch family the DeRis helps begin the novel Carrier of the Mark. Megan, Adam, and his siblings find an attraction to each other based upon the Marked Ones, Carriers and the truth of the Elementals. With a secret society protecting them, there is also another group searching for them hoping to gather them together to rule the world.
I found the storyline interesting and found myself in the middle of the book realizing there are about 50+ pages that slowed the story and had me wanting to put the book down. I am glad that I did finish it though, especially simce it does pick up and has a wonderfully written climatic ending.
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Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Sweep 1, 2, 3 By: Cate Tiernan
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I feel as though this is a good book, but there is something not quite right about the story. Maybe it is because there are so many more continuations to it, that it ends adruptly, contains more about beginning Wicca than a story to tell.
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My rating: 2 of 5 stars
What did I get myself into -- a how to to circles and Wicca and another remedial storyline... uggh - one more to go.
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My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Well, well,-- more Wicca how to but a true and interesting storyline that introduces more suspence and questions of who Morgan is and the people around her.
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Thursday, October 13, 2011
Review: Hades by: Alexandra Adornetto
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Jake is back with a vengence and after Bethany. In an act of deceit he tricks her into a realm of Hell that he is Prince. Gabriel and Ivy, along with Xavier and Molly are off on a mission to get Bethany back, if they can... while Bethany seeks her way out she meets with some likeable characters Hanna and Tuck and some unlikeable ones such as Big Daddy, himself and Asia...will she have the wherewithall to keep her faith when she is surrounded by darkness or will her final deal with Jake be the one that seals her fate.
Great book - a wonderful continuation to Halo.
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Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Review: Witch Child By:Celia Rees
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Story told in first person as diary entries allows the reader to enter into the mind and culture of Mary Nutall. Enter into the world of persecution of the wise woman and gifted woman from England into the New World.
An easy fast paced read, I could not put this down to find the instant treasure within it's pages. i do feel as though the story ended arubtly, but the mystery is one that leaves the reader thinking of what happened long into the night.
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Review: The Forgotten Garden By: Kate Morton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Within the lives of four generations, lies a deep secret, a secret that is unraveled in The Forgotten Garden. Lives and dreams are interwoven and when pulling on a thread, secrets are brought into the light of day and as a blossom turns itself towards the sun, the truth seeks out and is finally revealed so peace and love can bloom.
This amazing story is so well written and goes beyond touching your heart and dreams in suprising ways. From Eliza, her mother, an abandoned child Nell, and her grandaughter Cassandra - a family's darkest moments and secrets are investigated as each tries to find their past and the answers hidden deep within each one of them.
I loved this book, amazing characters and unforgettable situations, along with the fairy tales told within it's pages, enchanted me and grabbed at me.. leaving a special place in my heart. A definite must read.
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Monday, October 10, 2011
Review: The Restorer By: Amanda Stevens
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Amelia has a special gift of seeing ghosts, Devlin is a man haunted, along with a mysterious secret group, a paranormal society, and murders all around - one is left wondering... why is this book part of a series?!
The premise is good, a restorer of cementaries has a gift to see the restless dead, uncovers a body and then more, only finding herself drawn to a haunted detective and being drawn over and over again into the mystery of the murderer, the detective, and a spirit unlike any she has encountered.
But... I found myself getting bored and restless, I don't know if it was the style of writing, the stretched out plot, or a character that seemed more whiny at times than a three year old looking for a nap. I wish the editing process was better, the characters were better - but the story was a good premise, what could go wrong, read and see.
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Saturday, October 8, 2011
Review: The Pleasure Garden By: Amanda McIntyre, Charlotte Featherstone, and Kristi Astor
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I wish that in the anthologies one could rate each individual story - but overall, each tale had good/ok/great rating
Within the tale of Sacred Vows, the Beltane celebration has occurred and the Green Man magic brought two unlikely people together with an unlikely enemy in their circle.
Within Perfumed Pleasures, lies a story not just of the magical garden, but a tale of Beauty and the Beast.
And in the Rites of Passion, is a story of attration and love, the healing heart and green man garden.
The common theme of the Green Man, Beltane, and the magical garden is hard to resist not planting your own garden, hoping for a blossom of your own.
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Thursday, October 6, 2011
Review : The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer By: Michelle Hodkin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I think that once reading Mara Dyer's story an all consuming need to follow her and further understand the madness that is uncovering to reveal truth.
Mara has been in a serious accident, in a coma, and once awakening finds things different - about her memory and who she is now. It takes a move to Florida, her father's high profile legal case, and a boy from school - Noah, help unlock what is the beginning of the unbecoming of herself.
A treat to read and delve deep into what the reader can believe is madness, you find yourself treading water fighting the current to be swallowed whole by the story.
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Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Review: The Forest of Hands and Teeth By: Carrie Ryan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Mary has been told stories by her mother of the ocean, a distant memory of those confined and living within the village surrounded by the Unconsecrated. All Mary knows is that which the Sisterhood has taught, the Guardians that protect, and the need to explore - for there must be something more out there, the ocean must still be there. Living within a community that requires her either spoken for in a bonding, living with her family, or joining the ranks of the Sisterhood, Mary soon finds that none fit her. After her mother is bitten and chooses tho join those infested outside of the gate, her brother throws her out, and her "love" that she found in Travis is destroyed when he asks for her friend, she has no choice - the Sisterhood it is. Within the confines of the Cathedral, secrets are kept, and as Mary helps Travis heal a visitor from outside is taken in, hidden, and then destroyed by the Sisters. With the adventure of a post-virus world, through Mary's eyes and drive the reader is able to experience the chase of escape and the need for the ocean, for even as the tides of life change, so do the people with her.
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Sunday, October 2, 2011
Review: Halo By: Alexandra Adornetto
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Three angels are sent to Venus Cove on a mission to help humanity from the imbalance of evil that was found there. Gabriel, Ivy, and Bethany are there for a mission, yet Bethany - the youngest, and the angel most in tune with humans has found a dilemma, love. Xavier Cross has had his share of loss, can he have his own miracle, or will the darker forces come not just for the town, but for him and his girlfriend...
A good story, I wish there was a way to rate this 3.5 stars. At times it felt as though the book was getting too long, too deep in places unnecessary that could have been edited out, but it did flow. I look forward to reading the next in the series to see where Bethany and Xavier's tale continues.
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Review: Anna Dressed In Blood By: Kendare Blake
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A fast adventurous read that takes you into a mix of dark and light exposing the grey that lies in the in between. The combination of white witches, black witches, voodoo, ghost hunting, poltergeists, and a mixed group of people that come together that you haven't seen since the Buffy series on TV. Enter Theseus "Cas" Cassio Lockwood who has filled the footsteps of his father by hunting ghosts and destroying them, Carmel Jones, the "it" girl at school who becomes entangled in the hunt, Thomas Sabin, local boy who brought Cas in and has a few gifts of his own to bring to the table. In Thunder Bay there is a legend of Anna Korlov also known as, Anna dressed In Blood- she has taken victims ripped them apart, she is unlike any ghost that Cas has encountered, yet it there is depth to her that let's him know that the destruction is not of her will. To get to the bottom of her story could free her, yet can he kill her afterwords - and after all the hunting he has done, something might be hunting him...
Loved this book, a fast, easy read that was fast paced, fill with twists. I love the way the author writes and holds the voice throughout the book, lending a true gothic feel.
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Monday, September 26, 2011
Review: This Dark Endeavor By: Kenneth Oppel
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
An interesting look at the beginning of Victor Frankenstein. The meeting of Konrad, his twin, who turns terribly ill - Elizabeth, the ward, grew up as a sister and became something else within his heart - friend Henry, the poet and conscious of the group, along with the Frankenstein family and their secrets an unusual alchemist, Polidori who has a madness inside of him and a vendetta against the man that destroyed him.
A gothic like tale of the boy that became interested in science and alchemy for the sake of saving his twin brother. Victor must retrieve special ingredients for the Elixir of Life, found in the hidden books of the dark library of the Frankenstein home. He needs Polidori to read the book and guide him to the ingredients and is forewarned by Polidori, "Good sir, neither the devil nor the angels have any part in my work."
Mr. Oppel has an interesting writing style and a way to grasp and capture your attention in the dark. This book is worth picking up and looking forward to another of Mr. Oppel's works.
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Friday, September 16, 2011
Review: Envy by: Gregg Olsen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The small town of Port Gamble has been struck with a tragedy that strikes a cord in everyone. Katelyn Berkley is electrocuted in the tub, while her family was downstairs. Was this her own depression, or something more heinous that snuck through the open window of her room that night?
Hayley and Taylor Ryan, twins with unique and special connection, seem to have a connection to Katelyn now and are recieving messages that let them know that even though the coroner's report has said accidential this was so much more than that.
Mr. Olsen writes a story unlike any other I have read, making a heartfelt mystery, with twists, turns, the anguish of loss and grief, the desperation of searching for truth and the need for justice. The characters jump off the pages with the reader immediately placed into the scenery of Port Gamble, the homes, the faces, the history, and the secrets that they all seem to hold.
Wow! This is a part of a series called the Empty Coffin Series and I am hooked. There is a unique way to the writing style, an amazing storyline in regards to the twins, Hayley and Taylor - This is a can't miss read book or series.. warning, a sneak peek of Betrayal will get you hooked on the series- is enclosed in the back of the book.
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Review: Bloodlines By: Richelle Mead
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Looking for engaging read - Not It!
And so unfortuate too, I feel bad that this is a series, but ... (heavy sigh)
Bloodlines starts with a premise of a another story intertwined, prequel of sorts that is often touched upon but not fully divulged, leaving the reader flipping back and forth rolling their eyes wondering when can we stop with the "backdrop" and get to the story at hand or return to it.
Sydney Sage is an alchemist sent on an mission as a watcher/alchemist to help protect Jill, the sister if the Queen of the Moroi Vampires from being attacked again until laws can be put into place. Sydney is sent with Keith, another alchemist, who is creeper and has something out to get on Sydney than any human or non-human written, Eddie, a dhamphir guard, who is at Jill's side and her bodyguard, Lee, a contact in Palm Springs, a vampire with his own agenda, Adrian, another vampire who saved Jill fell for Rose (the previous story) was doing Abe (a vampire from a previous story too) a favor and seems to have a tale all his own that surrounds Sydney.
There appears to be the Moroi a better sort of vampire, the Strigoi the animalistic kind, the rumors of a vampire hunter of the the human kind, and some underground alchemist selling tattoos on teenagers that have powers and drug addiction qualities to them. As Sydney goes undercover with her motley group at a boarding school she must fight to protect them, herself, challenge her own beliefs, and still file a good report with The Alchemists.
The story was somewhat predictable, there was a suprise to it, that extra twist in the end.. and the idea seemed really good, I just don't know where it seemed to go wrong with me. It couldn't keep my attention, it seemed almost lazy at times relying on another storyline (quite often), and some of the hatred between the characters could not fully be understood, especially in their dialogue and some interactions and the interactions within the other characters -- for instance, Sydney confronts a character on such a misdeed so late in the story -- that kind of hate would be throughout the book in every interaction.
Skip this series, just not worth it, unless your going to the library and everythings checked out.
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Monday, September 5, 2011
Review: Passion by: Lauren Kate
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Wow!!
Ok, So Ms. Kate has redeemed herself in my eyes by recreating Luce's character from Torment - developing her more, giving her more depth. I could not put this book down.
As we left off in Torment, Luce disappeared into an Announcer searching for the truth, searching for meaning, searching for the beginning and possibly end the curse between her and Daniel. Thus a journey begins, and a chase. From lifetime to lifetime, through the lives past - Luce sees and experiences not only her love and death but also Daniel's love and agony - she goes from 1941 to ancient Egypt. Along the way she gains strength and further ability, also has a travel companion in the form of a gargoyle named Bill (who, like everyone has his own agenda). Eeveryone is chasing her down, jumping through time themselves, knowing that this is a Big Deal and how dangerous this can be - especially Daniel. He is right behind her, knowing at the end there just might have to be a sacrifice, and what is greater than love.
There is a cliffhanger in the end for the buildup into Rapture, the final in the Fallen series, coming out next Spring - I can't wait.
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Friday, September 2, 2011
Review: Torment by: Lauren Kate
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The drama continues.. I wish I could fairly rate this more like 3.5 stars though.. Something along the way to Luce's character got whiny, got a little less likeable. I enjoyed the storyline, it flowed from Fallen and is continuing into Passion ... and yes, I think I am hooked because I have Passion out and ready to start reading right away, but I will force myself to stop if this character gets any worse, which is my fear.
Luce is placed secretly away from Sword & Cross across the states into a new boarding school that "caters" to the special programs needed for the Nephilium. The reader is introduced again to some new amazing secondary characters, and those that return from the first in the series.
Luce is battling the idea of lifetimes and the damages left in their wake, she is battling listening for the best of protecting her - for there is too many out there that want her, too many stories that claim that she is the key to unlocking their hell. A truce has been placed between Cam and Daniel with rules as they hunt and protect her, only to have it come to a head at Thanksgiving.
I hope Luce's character develops better, not as selfish as she comes across on paper - I look forward to Passion and seeing.
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Review: Fallen by: Lauren Kate
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I am so glad that I picked up Lauren Kate even after the disappointment of The Betrayal of Natalie Hargrove - Ms. Kate has created a one of a kind storyline with amazing characters, both main and secondary.
This is the first book in a four book series and I must warn you -- it is addicting.
Lucinda (aka Luce) Price has been placed in the Sword & Cross boarding school for her "involvement" in the death of her date at her previous school, a mysterious death. Luce since her youth has been plagued by shadows, these shadows that have followed her and come out of the darkness, bringing with them what she believes death and destruction to those around her. Being at a new school brings a whole new set of rules, new campus (complete with graveyard), and new people. She finds herself in a battle of attraction, Cam who likes her, but there is something not quite right - and Daniel, the one she is truly attracted to that runs hot and cold.
With greater battles unleashing, is it possible that she will overcome the battle in her heart and Daniel's and reach the truth?
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Thursday, August 25, 2011
Review: Hereafter by: Tara Hudson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Amelia Ashley doesn't know what year it is, what time it is, or the events leading her to what she is.. but what she is certain of is she is Dead, she has "nightmares" of reliving her drowning off of High Bridge Road which leads her back to the cemetery. She isn't sure how lomg her afterlife has been like this.. she has been, well, isolated, until, that is a car with a boy, Joshua Mayhew falls into the river she is drowning (again) in - and she must and does find a way to save him, only to find he can see her. Joshua isn't a regular boy, he is from a long line of Seerers that have the sight for a specific purpose and Amelia finds that she hasn't been alone in the Hereafter, that there is a darker side, another boy Eli who wants her (more soul than body), and something truly darker than imagined. Through Joshua, Amelia is triggered into "special" gifts, and her memories - hoping that's enough to save them and their loved ones from what's brewing in the dark.
Oh, I wish I could say I loved this book, but I can't. It dragged, it had holes that were too big to ignore, at times too rushed and then too predictable. I found myself not wanting to read, not wanting to open it, it seemed such a promising story, and turned remedial. It wasn't horrible, but not memorable, not one to re read, not to recommend.
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Sunday, August 14, 2011
Review: Overbite by: Meg Cabot
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Meena Harper is back in the sequel to Insatiable. Months have gone by since the St. George incident and The Palatine is hunting the elusive Lucien, who seems to have disappeared or have gone underground, but not too far from Meena. Enter a new set of killers that set off to try and attack Meena, infiltrate the Palatine, and bring Lucien into the open - well, you have Overbite. Meena's visions have lead her to an ancient book that once belonging to Lucien's mother, lead to a new way a thinking and possibly can bring the truth and power to light, that there is good within the creatures of the Dracul, especially Lucien. Not knowing exactly what she has stumbled across or how things will pan out, she certainly has her hands full trying to convince Alric Wulf not to kill Lucien or the "good kind" until she can work on her theory.
I loved Insatiable, I wanted to love Overbite. I found it a little predictable, and somewhat disappointing... I was hoping against hope, but, hey I am just a reader. The ending seemed a little rushed, but the action was good, story was good, overall this was a good to great/good book. Here is one reader hoping that there is more books that is going to continue this story on some level, I was left feeling a little jilted and very hungry.
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Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Review: Witches of East End by: Melissa de la Cruz
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Vampires, Zombies, Gods, Goddesses, and Witches are all in this book. The Beauchamp women, Joanna, Ingrid, and Freya live in the protected town of North Hampton, or is it... ranging from their experience in Salem to the restrictions placed on them by the Council - soon problems are arising. People dying mysteriously, animals slaughtered, destruction of the the waters, and other supernatural occurrences. The path is leading them to Fair Haven, but all is not fair in this battle. With deception, secondary characters that have important roles, a great promise of a continuation, this book was one that I could not put down - had it all, action, adventure, romance, great characters - this is a not miss read.
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Monday, August 8, 2011
Review: Timeless by: Alexandra Monir
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
A lovely mysterious book of time travel, love, family secrets, and growth. Enter Michele Windsor, of THE WINDSORS of New York, she has lost her mother and has been forced to leave her friends, school, life behind to enter the world of the elite - a world that is foreign to her and as she grieves, meets her grandparents for the first time, a mysterious gift is bestowed upon her. Traveling through time the "man of her dreams"/ visions and her are united, she is able to meet ancestors, uncover secrets - but the secrets of the past, are they meant to remain there, the love has her pining her family's enemy Philip Walker and will everyone be broken hearted because of it, and by bouncing back and forth will she change the future as she knew for good or bad.
This was a quick read, cute, kind of cheesy, but the kind of read that although simple makes you feel a little excited, race through the pages, and look forward to the next one in the series.
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Sunday, August 7, 2011
Review: One Day by: David Nicholls
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
The story of Dexter Mayhew and Emma Morley - two people the at college graduation meet up, have an encounter, and find themselves once a year meeting up with each other. As the years go by their friendship is often tested by the difference in personalities, addictions, careers, and significant others.
I found this book tedious, it held so much promise.. but:
Dexter is a jerk, a narcissist, womanizer, addict, has been holding on to yesteryear
Emma is self depricating, never really going for what she is truly worth or seeking for better
Then again maybe these two are made for each other, but did I have to go through years of their whining and over 400 pages to find out.
There was so much promise to this story--- heck, even I have a story like this, just unfinished - boy meets girl, boy and girl hook up, they become friends for years, what happens over those years, what happens to them -
How cliche - how "Harry Meets Sally"/ "City of Angels"/ A&Es "Intervention"
Maybe the movie will be better, but I wonder if I will waste more of my time with this.
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Review: The Language of Flowers by: Vanessa Diffenbaugh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A story of a foster child, given up by her biological mother, lost in the system, finding herself. The Language of Flowers takes us into Victoria's life, past and present, meeting the people the influenced her, the struggles that she had and has to overcome, all with the fragile telling of her life almost shown through a bouquet - fragrant, fragile, daring to bloom.
Chapter by chapter, going past, present, past, building upon reliving and rectifying to grow, the author tells a deeply moving tale.
Meredith, a family service worker who is overworked and some how attached to Victoria being one of her first cases - Elizabeth, the would be mother, an influence above all, the one who understands Victoria and teaches her the secret language of flowers, among the the lessons of life - Catherine, Elizabeth's sister, an invisible influence that creates another fire inside of her - Renata, the owner of Bloom (a floral shop), a sister/mother type, one who believes in the grown version of Victoria - and Grant, the past, present, and possible future.
Victoria's life has been filled with pain and strife as years go by running away no longer seems an option, the past catches up. The Language of Flowers is a story of growth of the spirit, of blooming into oneself, and ultimate forgiveness - the gifts of love.
I enjoyed this book, finding the main character's development believable, even if at times unlikable. The secondary characters stood out in this development, and brought a stunning story to life.
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Friday, July 8, 2011
Review: By The Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead by: Julie Anne Peters
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
WARNING: Do Not Give This Book To People Feeling Suicidal, Have Felt Suicidal, Or Will Hand This Book Off In An Attempt To Bully Someone Into Suicide
A GREAT story about Daelyn Rice and her time as an outcast, bullied so much, abused and attacked with a few attempts under her already.. she finds a website that forces a date upon her, asking her if she will be ready by then, forcing her ask herself certain questions and take a look at the answers. As she is on the site, she purges some pain, has some people reach out, and has she learned anything from Santana a boy fighting Hogkins Lymphoma wanting to live.. unfortuately, ___Spoiler___ the author leaves that up to us. Is that good or bad, after a journey like this book it would have been better for her to finish it, although with the discussion questions within the book, I realize that this was geared for teaching.. no, I would not use this book as a teaching tool, see below ___ Spoiler Done___
This book has a raw voice, rings too true -- I fear though that this can be used as a tool to learn how to kill oneself, to get around from asking/seeking help, I worry about the triggers that this could cause to those that have been hurt and in a classroom setting even that would/could even promote it further. What was the publisher/writer thinking when they thought that this could be taught in a school setting? Anyone that has abuse issues, been abused, been bullied - please don't pick this up, anyone that loves someone that has put this in your library.
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Review: Die For Me by Amy Plum
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Kate and her sister have lost their parents, they move to Paris with their grandparents, and it is here that Ms. Plum introduces us to a special group of revenants. Ghosts, Undead, Demi-Gods, whatever they are, they are a group that has a hero complex, and an enemy the Numa. Introduce the story of Kate and Vincent. I know someone the story of boy meets girl, boy shouldn't have girl, but girl is his salvation, but WAIT there's more.. is it possible she is meant for more, to do good, to save others. The characters are developed and secondary and enemy has backgrounds and personalities as a reader for you to make judgement upon, Georgia-Kate's sister for instance. You can see that there will be a series of books one I look forward to reading.
Now a reminder, there is a deja vu quality to this book, but it is so well written it is worth investing in, meeting the characters, and experiencing the author.
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Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Review: Miss Peregrine's Home For Particular Children by: Ransom Riggs
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
An interesting tale that focuses on Jacob and his search of the truth his grandfather left behind. Jacob is told amazing tales by his grandfather of particular people that could levitate, be invisible, have a mouth in the back of the head - all at a school run by a bird. Great stories, until he got older and grandpa started talking of monsters... then one day, a phone call, a search for grandpa, following the signs of a struggle, in the bushes he sees it. No one believes him. Following the clues left behind, he goes to Cairnholm (an isolated, tiny island off the coast of Whales) - there he encounters the "impossible" and learns he wasn't the only one following the clues.
A good read, amazing pictures - that are vintage and found at flea markets/antique malls/yard sales.. but it felt like the story was just for the pictures. I understand they inspired and that the author wished to have them in the book, but the story was forced at times just to add a couple pictures in. I think I would have enjoyed the story by itself (with those changes) and a seperate photo book.
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Monday, June 27, 2011
Review: The Harlot by: Saskia Walker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An amazing erotic novel has been found. Ms. Walker delivers a wonderful turn paging storyline, well written characters, and steamy scenes.
Jessie Taskill is the "Harlot of Dundee", a woman with a past and a secret. Gregor Ramsay is a man on a mission of revenge upon the person he blames for his family's demise. The moment they meet sparks are ignited and as he prepares her to seduce Ivor Wallace, Gregor finds himself under her spell. She is being hunted and accused of witchcraft, he is chased by ghosts, with each page you hope it will end with love healing all.
I must say this book was a rare and wonderful treat. It is so rare to find an erotic novel that has dimension to the characters and an unique storyline that actually takes up the pages and allows scenes to flow.
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Review: The Betrayal of Natalie Hargrove by: Lauren Kate
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
This book was hard to get through, the main character, Natalie Hargrove is a social climbing monster with only one thought.. or all thoughts that only pertain to herself and how superficial she is. After a party her and her boyfriend, the very rich Mike King, prank the competition for the prince of the ball a boy from her past, Justin Balmer, which leads to his death. It is the unraveling of Natalie, those around her, and the repercussions of all the actions she makes along the way to cover it up.
I could not sympathize with the main character at all, it took all of my patience to make it finally into the true story - beyond make up and hair and bluh bluh fillers- 70 pages at least... but it is a fast read and if you have nothing better to do to make you feel better about you being you..
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Review: Wither By:Lauren Destefano
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It's a new world, one where girls no longer grow into adulthood but are doomed to die by 20 and boys at 25 - the solution, marry them young to reproduce as a cure is sought. Enter the world of sister wives, of young girls stolen away from all they once new to be the brides of one man-child, thanks to the payment of his father.
The story is told by Rhine, one of a twin (her brother is left behind.. wondering), with a unique feature of one eye blue one eye brown, orphaned by scientist parents, stolen away to be the bride of Linden, whose father, Housemaster Vaughn is the shiver of evil as a shadow is in darkness. Rhine is one of three brides brought to Linden as his first wife dies, Rhine un/fortunately has a resemblence to her. Cecily, the redhead, is the child, and is the ever pleasing... Jenna, the brunette, is the oldest, whose sisters were killed in front of them and holds the pain of life within her - Rhine, the blonde, holds hope of escape, sometimes losing herself in the prison of the house they all are in, losing herself in the illusion of the holograms, but with the friendship she makes with a servant Gabriel and the promises she keeps to Lindon's first wife, Rose, and Jenna.. Rhine can not lose herself.
There is a creepiness that seeps through the pages as you continue to read this book. The storyline is unique and the words so beautifully written. The dimensions given to not just Rhine, but all the wives shows a wonderful writer. I can't wait to read the next in the series.
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Monday, June 20, 2011
Review: Hourglass by:Myra McEntire
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
A new book about Time Travel with a fresh new voice, this is the first book written by Ms. McEntire and has that new feel. There are times that the novel feels rushed and has holes within almost as big as the wormholes and theories that she tries to present within it's pages - but the story is good, the villians are somewhat unexpected. I do wish that the story was stronger but I can hope that Ms. McEntire has just given the reader a taste of what she can do.
Emerson has lost her parents, is in the custody of her brother and his wife, and has only begun to tap into the powers that she has. Having been seeing the dead for a while, her brother, Thomas hires Michael from the Hourglass (an Institute for special people and the studies within) to help Em with this. The sparks between the two are undeniable neither is the tie that binds them from the past, present, and future. When Em is needed to help travel to save an important part Hourglass and the Team, she risks everything to do it.
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Thursday, June 16, 2011
Review: Don't Breathe A Word by: Jennifer McMahon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Beware of dark shadows, the Dark Faerie Prince, and even those you thought you could trust..
The book flips chapter by chapter from present day to fifteen years ago as the web of mystery began and begins to unravel. Lisa taken fifteen years ago by the faeries as everyone had come to believe mysterious brings the people that were brought together that summer, back together. Her brother Sam, Phoebe (who years ago was brought to the scene and has a history of her own that twines and unravels), Evie (their cousin), and a couple of kids from the neighborhood... all grown up now can they beat the shadows that lurk in the mysterious forest home or has the shadow made a home elsewhere, can they get Lisa back, can they uncover the truth setting them free or make them all prisoners.
A quick read, I love how this was written. Suspects, mystery, hoping, and the possiblity of believing.. but there is a darkness that keeps the pages turning and swirling in your mind making sure that you have to finish this just in time, before lights out.
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Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Review: Fire by Kristin Cashore
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I did not read Graceling..the first book in this series, yet this book truly stands alone and is more than enjoyable.
Enter into a world filled with monsters that have power that prey, filled with war and espionage and treachery, filled with those human-monsters that can control your mind and gracelings that have their own specialized talents - by entered thse pages you enter the world of the Dells.
It is the brink of war when we meet Fire, a human-monster with the power to read and control other minds with her own and her "beauty". Ms. Cashore has created amazing secondary characters to bring out Fire.. for as the book develops, the characters that Fire surrounds herself with do too. The beginning, she is within her hometown, her best friend and lover Archer, the only things that she knows. Being brought to the King City by Prince Brigan, Fire becomes ignited. New place, new job, new people. She learns more about herself and those around her, she becomes empowered. A great development of Fire growing into womanhood through self-control, self-worth, grief, happiness, and love.
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Thursday, June 9, 2011
Review: Reckless by Cornelia Funke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ms. Funke has taken the reader into the Mirrorworld - another place in this outstanding novel. A story of Jacob Reckless, a treasure hunter of glass slippers, golden orbs, dragon scales, and things that you only thought were "fairy tales" who must set off to find a cure for what is ailing his brother, Will. Will has been attacked by the Goyl, stone creatures that turn men into stone having them forget what they once were and becoming now the hunters rather then the hunted of old they have scores to settle in this other world. Will is turning into the prophesy of The Dark Fairy, a Jade Goyl. Jacob, Clara (Will's love), Fox (Celeste, a shape-shifter), and Valiant (a dwarf) embark on an adventure that takes them into themselves and through obstacles to cure Will. Can love be the answer to drive this force?
What a wonderful woven read filled with adventure, interesting placements of known fairy tales. I highly recommend this read.
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Review: Scars by Cheryl Rainfield
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Scars is a deep felt account of Kendra who takes us through the book in first person account of her scars both internal and external. Having a lack of true support system at home in her mother, she finds mother figures in that of her therapist and art teacher, both which she opens herself and her wounds to in a subconscious level. Kendra was abused. Now as she is putting those memories together her abuser is stalking her, leaving her messages to leave this be, to leave it alone. All this pain, all this neglect, all this abuse... Kendra also abuses herself, to relieve that pain, those memories, she cuts herself. She finds herself in love and receiving love with a girlfriend, Meghan; her art gets displayed and starts to sell. Soon stress crashes pieces together and the way Ms. Rainfield wrote this keeps you right there with Kendra.
I really liked this story. It was very raw and written with a note of hope at the end. There is also a lot of resources listed to help you if you or someone you know is involved in self injury or abuse.
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Review: The Seduction of Miranda Prosper
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
I think I could possibly give this 1.5 stars for there was somewhat a plot. Miranda is found at a ball to be the catalyst for the two sorcerers, Corwin (dark and giving), and Darius (light and mysterious). To enter into the power that is her own and theirs manage de trios run rampant amongst what one might consider a plot. An evil Fae made a deal for thirteen catalysts to be delivered, many have gone missing, other sorcerers destroyed, can the three of them uncover who is behind the plot and prevent it without losing Miranda.
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Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Review: Cut by Patricia McCormick
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
Told in first person, a fictional tale about a girl named Callie in a residential treatment facility, Sea Pines for self-mutilation. Ms. McCormick writes the internal dialogue, the interactions and personal responses of the character to not just her family, but her therapist, but also her peers in the program. The reactions and actions of cause and effect are easily examplified through those peers and family members. For such a serious subject matter I found this book a little campy, trying to end on a good note and be an easy read, not truly touching on the harder subjects that is truly encountered in self mutilation. I wouldn't recommend this for anyone trying to understand this disorder or at all.
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Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Review: The Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ms. Mitchell has conjured up an unbreakable spell in this treat. The book spans the year of 1889 taking place mostly in Baltimore, a pieces in Maine. A teenage girl, Amelia van der Broek is sent away by her brother to find a suitable match and to become a lady. She is sent to the Stewarts who have a spirited daughter Zora the same age. Meeting the social network of friends as an outsider, Amelia is immediate drawn to Nathaniel Witherspoon, who is enigmatic.
As the scenes vividly glow off the pages, the sunsets draw Amelia into visions and predictions that are too accurate. Playing Maines Mystic is one thing, playing for real is another.
I can't say enough about how well witten this book is, how great of a storyline, how fresh. I have found myself looking into the golden setting sun and predicting another enjoyable reread of this book.
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Friday, May 27, 2011
Review: Tempestuous by: Lesley Livingston
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The end of Ms. Livingston's trilogy brings mystery, possible betrayal, Faerie Court War all into the mix. The book picks up with Kelley learning all the secrets pertaining to Sonny and his true heritage and her need to protect him, the Court, and those that would use that knowledge for good or bad - so by wiping memories, giving back protective spells, and convincing him she doesn't love him.. because faeries can't lie (but she can). The Janus Guard has been corrupted and is now killing for killing sake, Herne and his Tavern are attacked which the Greenman is stolen, all while Auberon is slowly whithering away from the inside dying.
This book took a while to enjoy as much as Ms. Livingston's others. I had to push myself to get through almost 200 pages to really get to enjoy what I have come to enjoy from her as an author. The book is worth the read to finish the series out, and has beautiful touches within it - but there is that feeling as you read that the book was rushed and her heart wasn't as exposed on paper as it was in the previous novels.
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Wednesday, May 25, 2011
A Great Contest With A Great Message
I wanted to let people know about a great contest available at Cheryl Rainfield's website for her book Scars.
This book is about cutting and is somewhat autobiographical. Too many people are turning to harming themselves as a way to release the pain and trouble that is happening in their lives.
http://cherylrainfield.com/blog/index.php/2011/05/25/spring-into-summer-giveaway-hop-another-chance-to-win-scars-amazon-com-gift-card/
On a personal note I have to say this is something that has affected my family and myself. This website has great tips and the book promises to be a great read.
Reason Not to Hurt Yourself link: http://cherylrainfield.com/blog/index.php/2011/05/06/reasons-not-to-hurt-yourself/
It is a beautiful list - an affirmation for those that have a voice that need to be heard Let's Get The Message Out There
Monday, May 23, 2011
A Little Brightness
I received a wonderful gift in the mail today. gave me a little brightness and I have to give a little shout out ---
To Jade Lee a great author at www.jadeleeauthor.com I look forward to reading and reviewing Wicked Surrender I also have to shout out to www.freshficton.com and the amazing authors that are blogging, fresh picked, and a part of that community. Please check it out.
Continue Reading
Review: Little Red and The Wolf by Alison Paige
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
An erotic take on Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf in this novel by Ms. Paige.
Granny has a cottage in the woods that is at risk between two men that visit her - one very dangerous Mr. Gray Lobo, another pretending to be her dead father, at the center Maizie "Red" Hood. The property sits next to the animal santuary owned by Mr. Lobo, which her parents were killed and his wife in the form as a wolf. As the story unfolds there is no mistake how it turns out - a crazy outplay on the "family pack" but a fast, easy read that holds your attention.
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Monday, May 16, 2011
Review: Darklight by: Lesley Livingston
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ms. Livingston did it again. In her follow up to Wondrous Strange she takes us further into the magical adventure of Kelly, Sonny, the Janus Guard, Auberon, Maab, Titiana, Ogres, Leprechans, and more. The development of Fennrys and the mystery between the battle of the Four Courts causing even stranger alliances makes the promise of the third book too tempting too wait to read.
Kelly is caught up again within the battle of the Courts, the Wild Hunt is being battled by Sonny within the Faerie realm, the Gates are fracturing, a leprechan is chasing after Kelly's necklace, Sonny has a little something more to him that must be kept from others as well as him to protect him, Auberon calls upon Kelly --- most of this book takes place within the Fae Realm making the reader devour page after page.
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Saturday, May 14, 2011
Review: Falling Under by: Gwen Hayes
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
There is something here within the story of Theia and a strange, mystery that has fallen from the sky Haden. Theia, a teenage girl, overly protected by a barely there father, in the out clique at school with greatly written supporting character friends - one night awakes to see a body falling burnt from the sky. An overwhelming attraction along with dreams that aren't complete a pull to a new boy in school.
The struggle for the characters within "Under" and Here is interesting, but didn't keep up to the expectations that I had for this book. Some descriptions went on allowing the picture to hold, and then it was as if Ms. Hayes gave up paragraphs or her own style or voice to someone else to continue on with the story. The unique setting of the Underworld and realms does bring the orginality of Ms. Hayes' writing forth.
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Monday, April 25, 2011
Review: Entwined by Heather Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A new look at the tale of the twelve princesses. Azalea the oldest takes the reader on an adventure filled with dances, balls, magic, suitors, mischief, and personal growth. Her kingdom filled with magical items, some hidden away, others sent away -- as secrets unfold, one becomes stronger, that of the mysterious Mr. Keeper who lives within enchantment within the hidden chambers of the palace. Sworn to watch after her sisters, trying to take care of the mysteries within, will Azalea be able to keep promises without them backfiring.. will there be a silver lining admist some disaster?
Wow! I was very impressed by this book. The way Ms. Dixon wrote out the characters, gave each a voice that even "secondary" characters stood out in dialogue and behavior. The descriptions flew off each page allowing me to wander into the kingdom and into enchantment. This was an amazing read.
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Sunday, April 24, 2011
Honoring the release of Illusions
In honor of the release of Illusions ending the trilogy of Wings and Spells by Aprilynne Pike
http://youtu.be/Jzd6iyNyPPs
Enjoy!!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Review: The Duke & The Pirate Queen by Victoria Janssen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Hot Steamy Erotic tale - explicit sex scenes, not for faint of heart. Set within Duchys and the Sea, with espionage, pirate attacks, natives, and a King's court. There is a plot to kill Maxime (the Duke) leaving him in the capable hands of rescue of the woman he employs and loves Imena (the Pirate Queen). Amist the unravelling of the key players against him, pirate ships attacking, battles, can he get her to say yes to marriage before danger catches up to them. Being locked in close proximity certainly helps.
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Review: Paranormalcy by Kiersten White
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This book was really talked up and maybe my expectations were a lttle high, so I was somewhat disappointed. The story at times seemed to jump, feel forced, and jumbled a bit - I found myself re reading sections because it just didn't flow, and no I wasn't me. Yet, the storyline was good and seemed to promise someting in the line of a sequel.
The main character Evie works for a secret agency that "bags and tags" paranormals. At the same time that paranormals start dying at a drastic rate, Lend, a paranormal water element comes into her life. Dealing with an overaggressive faerie Reth, who holds secrets to Evie's other questions and leaves a certain abusive relationship pattern through the pages - another being "like" her shows up. The paths that we choose are our own, aren't they - unless we were made for that road... right?
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