I love this series and these characters, but King of Death lost a bit of the magic of the first two books. Don't get me wrong, it had some deeply emotI love this series and these characters, but King of Death lost a bit of the magic of the first two books. Don't get me wrong, it had some deeply emotional parts, and I was pretty riveted, but it wasn't MAGICAL like the others in the series.
I was actually pretty frustrated with the first half of the book. The pace was a bit slow and the plot redundant. These two MCs wouldn't communicate at all! They had huge issues to work out, but they just avoided talking. I know all of the answers would have been hard to work out, but Lily Mayne made them dance around each other versus plot together.
I was emotionally invested the whole time, but in the end, the climax felt a little... well, anticlimactic. A little too easy, if I'm being honest. I was REALLY satisfied at how 99% of the loose ends were tied up and how everything came to a conclusion, but it just was a bit too easy for how hard they had to fight for everything in the first two books.
I think this was the only book where I didn't cry.
I was happy with this one, mostly because I love this world and these characters, but King of Death wasn't as epic as I wanted.
How DARE Lily Mayne write a book this good. I could not stop reading, and I was on edge the whole time. But be warned: Cliffhanger, alert.
Mortal SkinHow DARE Lily Mayne write a book this good. I could not stop reading, and I was on edge the whole time. But be warned: Cliffhanger, alert.
Mortal Skin was my first book from Lily Mayne, and with all stellar reviews from my friends, I knew it would be something special. And it really, really was.
Readers, be prepared for a gripping, dark fae story. I knew, KNEW, the other shoe would drop eventually, so I was holding my breath and didn't want to put this story down. The writing is so compelling, and it builds such a sense of foreboding mixed with the loveliest romance that you will be hooked. I was hooked.
I can't possibly guess as to where this story will take us, but Lily Mayne better deliver in the second book also because I'm about to combust now. The angst! The drama! The luuuurve. I am here for it, and my body is ready for another marathon reading session.
Ugh, I was so done with this trilogy by the time Smitten by Magic ended. I barely made it though.
I think that, individually, the Magic & Mayhem booksUgh, I was so done with this trilogy by the time Smitten by Magic ended. I barely made it though.
I think that, individually, the Magic & Mayhem books are cute, but all together... whew, they grated on me.
First of all, I was beyond creeped out that the female MC has watched over the male MC since he was a baby, and then fell in love with him. And I mean, watched every interaction. It felt very creepy-stalker, and I know it was her job, but STILL.
The world-building was a total afterthought. I know these are supposed to be comedy-ish, but the humor didn't work for me. I wanted an actual world that made sense, and the author didn't really care about those details.
The story had cute moments, but overall, I found it to be tiresome. Happy the trilogy is over.
Interesting, well-done fantasy-romance from the always reliable Lisa Henry.
I'm not a fantasy reader, so I was a little reluctant to try Anhaga, mostlyInteresting, well-done fantasy-romance from the always reliable Lisa Henry.
I'm not a fantasy reader, so I was a little reluctant to try Anhaga, mostly because I adoreLisa Henry and I hate disliking a book from one of my favorite authors. However, I was surprised at how much I liked it.
Anhaga is low steam and low snark for a Lisa Henry book, so know that going into it. We have a bisexual MC and a virgin (yaaaassss), so that grabbed me right away, but this story isn't very explicit with the good details. There was nice chemistry between the two MCs, and I liked the innocence and potential of the romance.
I thought the romance was well done, even if it could have been fleshed out a bit more, but what really drew me in was the story. The world-building was exciting, and I couldn't wait to find out more about the fae and the magical people. I could have used more details and just more, but I was pretty happy with it just as is.
A solid book from a great author, Anhaga is worth your time.
An extraordinary treat for both T.J. Klune fans and those new to his writing, The House in the Cerulean Sea is a heart-warming, wholesome, diverse, riAn extraordinary treat for both T.J. Klune fans and those new to his writing, The House in the Cerulean Sea is a heart-warming, wholesome, diverse, ridiculous, and completely lovable fantasy story.
As a long-time T.J. Klune fan, as I'm sure many of you are, I know you are asking yourself what this book will be like now that T.J. Klune is publishing with the big boys. I'm very happy to report that the book read just like I was expecting it to, which means tight writing, romance (!), queer characters everywhere (natch), and a story you won't want to put down.
I wasn't sure how this book would be, to be honest, because it is billed as "contemporary fantasy," and I'm not really a fantasy reader. And, really, I'm surprised it's a contemporary because I would have placed the timeline as further in the past due to some of the details, but that's not really here nor there. It isn't an high fantasy, so it is good for low fantasy readers who simply like a little magic in their world, like me. But the bottom line is if you've enjoyed TJ's books in the past, you'll love this story. And if you are new to him, you'll soon be devouring his backlist. Welcome to the club.
I think this book could be enjoyed by all readers of all ages. It is probably meant for adults, but it's a great read for those as young as middle grade (I would let my 5th grader read it if her reading level was advanced enough). It has a lot of important lessons about how we judge one another and what our preconceived notions are about other people, and in this world, the more gentle learning we can take in, the better. It does edge a bit towards sentimental at times, but it just adds to the charm.
TJ is very adept at writing interesting young characters, and that's where this book really shines. The children in this story are all heart-breaking, and funny (the BEST parts of the story), and you'll fall in love with them all. I would be hard-pressed to pick my favorites, but Lucy and Chauncey stood out for me. Lucy has some of the best contrasts in the book, and Chauncey is just so pure. *1,000 heart-eye emojis.*
The story is fairly long, but that just means more to savor. You won't be bored for one minute, and you'll leave the story feeling happy and hopeful.
With his typical beautiful writing and unique style, T.J. Klune makes The House in the Cerulean Sea shine. With no end to his imagination in sight, I can't wait to see what TJ will come up with next.
Hot Asian men, cats, and a mystery-romance? We got a Rhys Ford book, baby!
I really enjoy Rhys Ford's books, especially when Greg Tr[image]
*3.5 stars*
Hot Asian men, cats, and a mystery-romance? We got a Rhys Ford book, baby!
I really enjoy Rhys Ford's books, especially when Greg Tremblay narrates for her, and though I liked Dim Sum Asylum, I felt a bit disconnected from the story.
Before I begin, can we all agree that Greg Tremblay just slays it every time? I happen to be a Greg superfan, and he is just a professional and a master. I think he always treats his books with respect and care, and we did a very nice job again here with this one.
What I found interesting is that, though I liked the story, it took me forever to get through. I can speed-listen to an audiobook in a day or two if I'm really into it, but this book took me over a month to finish. A MONTH. I liked the world and the plot, but I simply wasn't compelling to keep listening. It was strange.
I felt like the romance was a complete afterthought, and I almost would have preferred no romance at all, or just a hint of romance with a promise of more. I was too lost in trying to keep track of the world that Rhys Ford created to be that invested in a romance that, frankly, barely got any page-time. The romance felt insta-lovey, which is a pet peeve of mine, and it decreased my enjoyment a fair bit.
I would read more if the author expands this to a series because I found the world so fascinating, and, of course, I'll listen to anything Greg narrates. However, though I'd recommend this story, Dim Sum Asylum was just short of really good for me.
I love Angel Martinez, and I've read mostly everything she's written, but this book, while pleasant, wasn't my favorite from her.
Finn was a fun read I love Angel Martinez, and I've read mostly everything she's written, but this book, while pleasant, wasn't my favorite from her.
Finn was a fun read (I'm always down for a hottie fae) with a nicely plotted, fast pace. I've never read a book with a pooka MC before, but I was totally down with the magic and charm of the story.
Three-star reviews are some of the hardest for me to write because while I enjoyed the story, I don't feel super-strongly about it, either way. There were dark parts and some funny parts, but overall, the sappiness and cheesy pet names brought me back from really enjoyed the story. I found the jump to love to be way too fast for my personal tastes as well. It read like a novella, though it clocked in over 200 pages long.
I think if you like Angel Martinez, the story is certainly worth your while. It was a nice break from some heavier reads for me, though I don't think it will stand out a few weeks from now.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*...more
But me? I couldn't wait to stop listening, so much so that I decided to just drop it and stop punishing myself.
I'll be the first to admit that I struggle with fantasy, and YA fantasy even more. I've trashed many a book that my friends all loved and The Cruel Prince seems to be no different.
For me, I had a number of issues. It was boring. The pacing was just off, and I felt snooze-y for most of the story.
The main character was whiny and too self-involved. I actually didn't like her, which made the whole book hard to listen to. There was SO. MUCH. COMPLAINING.
The book just felt... pointless. I struggled to find it at all compelling.
I ended up giving the story 2-stars because the narration was decent and I'm giving the book the benefit of the doubt that it picks up. I'm not sure it does. Either way, I won't be continuing on with the series.
*~~Check out all of my reviews & my bookstagram at the links below~~*
I adore Barbara Elsborg, and I always think she is underrated as an author. Her stories are a consistent mix of good characterizations, witty banter, I adore Barbara Elsborg, and I always think she is underrated as an author. Her stories are a consistent mix of good characterizations, witty banter, and angst, and while she can veer a little heavy for me at times, when she delivers I'm always impressed.
Archangel's Assassin was a very good paranormal romance right in Barbara Elsborg's wheelhouse. I really love her paranormal stuff, and this one was no different.
I have a soft spot for an amnesia story, and I thought it fit very well here. I enjoyed trying to figure out who Tao was and what his backstory could possibly be. There was a little bit of mystery and a little bit (okay, a fair amount) of angst, but it wasn't ever too much for me.
What always wins me over about Barbara Elsborg's characters is their dialogue. I think her dialogue is just so snappy and witty, and that's where she shines. I loved how the two MCs interacted, and when they were matching wits, I was very pleased!
I think there were some issues with the rushed-feeling ending and the pacing, and the sometimes hot/cold dynamic of the relationship between the two MCs, but I was really happy with Archangel's Assassin. I think fans of Bloodline and Dirty Angel will find this one to be right up their alley.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*...more
Okay, I seem to be in the minority here, but this book was a bit hard for me to finish. Don't get me wrong, it's cute, but it wasn't exactl*2.5 stars*
Okay, I seem to be in the minority here, but this book was a bit hard for me to finish. Don't get me wrong, it's cute, but it wasn't exactly what I thought I was getting.
I thought that the majority of the book was going to be David learning to love "the beast," Dr. Alun Kendrick, despite his looks and surly demeanor. I mean, I expected it to be more or less a play on Beauty and the Beast. However, that isn't really what this story is about.
We didn't get a good sense of what Alun looks like in beast-mode (large head and prominent brow ridges was as much as I gleaned), and the attraction between David and Alun was practically there from the start, despite Alun's looks. The resolution with the whole beauty-vs-beast aspect happened pretty early on, so the rest of the book took me a bit by surprise.
There is a LOT happening in this story, and the story is LONG. I know, I know, it's only 280-some odd pages, but it felt like a 400+ page story. One plot melds into the next and there is a thing with brothers and family and loyalty and jealousy... it was a lot to handle in one story.
I liked David a lot. I thought he was spunky and cute, but I didn't really love Alun, whose personality never really snapped into place for me. They were okay together, I guess, but I just didn't totally feel them as a couple.
I guess I was expected something different and I felt like a got more of a hodgepodge. Not a bad story, but it didn't quite scratch my itch.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review* ...more
Surprisingly enjoyable book from new-to-me author, Daria Defore.
I'm a big paranormal and urban fantasy fan, and some of my favorite books *3.5 stars*
Surprisingly enjoyable book from new-to-me author, Daria Defore.
I'm a big paranormal and urban fantasy fan, and some of my favorite books are fairy/fae stories (The Fever Series: Darkfever, Bloodfever, Faefever, Dreamfever, Shadowfever). However, I don't have a great track record with trying new authors, and novella-length stories can be tricky business. I was really impressed with what Daria Defore did with this one.
Sparkwood combines a mystery, an enemies-to-lovers romance, and some paranormal goodness into one story. I'm not a big mystery fan, but the mystery here wasn't too... mysterious, if I may say so myself. It was enough to keep me entertained, but I had a feeling what was going on for a good part of the story. That didn't bother me much, and the great enemies-to-lovers element kept my excitement level up.
It's hard to pull off slow burn in a shorter story, but this book did it. I'm a sucker for a slow burn, and so I loved waiting for the romance to get going. Make me wait, authors! This book is also low on the heat, but I didn't miss it (much). We get a little something towards the end, but smut-lovers should know that this isn't a fairy sex-fest story.
I thought that the fairy world was pretty cool, even if I could have used a LOT more world-building. I had a ton of questions about the fairy-world that weren't answered. I think with some more finesse, the author could get a ton out of this world. It reminded me vaguely of On the Edge and that type of world-idea.
I also love a bi-guy and we get that here. The MC has to come to terms with his own sexuality, but he doesn't deny it in his head. I'm always #teambisexualpride, so I was excited about that.
A pretty great little story from Daria Defore, I think fairy fans won't be disappointed.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*...more
Sean Michael does fantasy. And you get exactly what you'd expect.
This novella actually started off sort of beautifully. It had a dreamy, fairytale viSean Michael does fantasy. And you get exactly what you'd expect.
This novella actually started off sort of beautifully. It had a dreamy, fairytale vibe and I was really, really digging it. A lonely scarred man finds an injured fairy and nurtures him back to health. It had the makings of a very good story. Then the sex started...
For a story of only 69 pages, this had a TON of sex scenes. I'm talking page after page of blow jobs and fingering, all while whispering sweet nothings into each other's ears. Don't get me wrong, I love a good sex scene, but it got to be a bit ridiculous.
Because of all the sex, the plot got to be VERY thin. Thin like paper. I wanted more substance, though I still found this to be enjoyable and compulsively readable. It was sugary fantasy-lite with a dose of hotness. I found myself not really caring that the characters weren't really developed or that they never left their little cave. I enjoyed this story for what it was: Purple man-fae porn!
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
Another Harry Dresden audiobook, another winner! I ADORE this series!
The audiobook for this series is simply sensational! Sure, James Marsters[image]
Another Harry Dresden audiobook, another winner! I ADORE this series!
The audiobook for this series is simply sensational! Sure, James Marsters doesn't have a wide range of voices and sure, he wetly clears his throat a lot, but you know what? I don't care! He IS Harry Dresden and DAMN does he make these books come alive.
An excellent listen and another fabulous visit to my favorite wizard of them all! ...more
"Good evening faeries," Inigo said. "My name is not Inigo Montoya but Inigo Rafael Cavendish Fitzwilliam McIntosh and my father isn't the issue, bu"Good evening faeries," Inigo said. "My name is not Inigo Montoya but Inigo Rafael Cavendish Fitzwilliam McIntosh and my father isn't the issue, but prepare to die anyway."
Any book that references "Princess Bride" = Instant bonus points.
This book is SO much fun. I really like Barbara Elsborg's style- quirky stories with lots of character development, heat, and excitement. This isn't your typical vampire book. First of all, it leans a bit towards the fantasy realm with the involvement of fae and other dimensions. It also isn't an "alpha male" story, with a growly possessive vampire. It is more.. geek-chic vampire? Like the kind of vampire a geek-lover like me I would want to be friends with or date.
My favorite part of this book was the dialogue. It had me laughing out loud at times, which was awkward because I was reading this book on a crowded train and I seemed a little insane to my fellow passengers. I loved the banter back and forth between the two MCs. Inigo was fabulous in every scene and I adored his interactions with everyone.
"I want to be a ten," Inigo blurted. "You are a ten." "I want to be an eleven really."
My biggest hangup with this book was the plot seemed a little chaotic. I'm not sure if it because I hadn't read the prequel book Jumping in Puddles (though this book is billed as a stand-alone), but I got a little lost with all of the family members and their dynamics. However, I enjoyed this book so much that it is easily 4-stars for me.
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review** ...more
This was just perfection in an audiobook. The reader, Holter Graham, again slammed-dunked it with a spot on narration. T[image]
Awesome. Just awesome.
This was just perfection in an audiobook. The reader, Holter Graham, again slammed-dunked it with a spot on narration. The way he does each voice so distinctly and uniquely and manages to give each sentence the right tone... I just love it. I only want to listen to this series in audiobook.
This is the rare breed of UF with a heroine who is not the least bit annoying. She is strong and drama-free and I could read about her all day long. I liked that the focus of the story was on the action and the mystery instead of silly relationship drama (ahem, The Shadow Reader). And the mystery was executed to a T. You know the type, the kind where you have no idea who the bad guy is but when you find out, it all makes perfect sense. Excellent work, Patricia Briggs.
I'm going to pause here and move on to the Mercy Thompson series because I hear that the next Alpha Omega book takes place farther down the timeline in the Mercy world, and I don't want that series spoiled for me. However, it is going to be hard to leave these characters behind. ...more
I went back and forth between 3 stars and 4 stars for this book. Overall, I really liked it. It was a nice fantasy for my tastes and I th**3.5 stars**
I went back and forth between 3 stars and 4 stars for this book. Overall, I really liked it. It was a nice fantasy for my tastes and I think the author showed some impressive talent here.
What is interesting about this book is that though it is not a fast-paced, action filled adventure, it truly kept a firm hold on me these past couple of days. It has a certain beauty that appealed to me. One reason is that the writer is very descriptive. I loved that I got a vivid picture of each scene. She includes details like scents and tastes and sounds- Shawna Reppert sure can paint a picture! Another aspect of the book that I liked was the insight into each character. I felt like I understood both James and Loren's point of view perfectly. I really got a glimpse inside their heads.
What I didn't love was the lack of communication between Loren and James. So much could have gotten accomplished between them if they just said what was on their minds. I also thought that Loren was a bit inconsistent as a character. He really wanted to escape, supposedly, yet never made even the slightest attempt. The author does a good job of trying to show the reasons for his actions but I still felt like it didn't quite work.
I almost bumped this book down a star for the ending. After all of that buildup, it just wraps up so neatly, like a pretty package. It didn't fit with the hard-fought victories that came before it. It was just like, "tra-la-la, let's forget everything else and be merry!" I would have preferred a bittersweet ending over this one, actually.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
"Soul Sucker" reminded me of a lesser quality mashup of Slave to Sensation and PsyCop. It takes place in a world where empaths are the gatekeepers between our world and Otherworld, which is the world of the fae, shifters, trolls, goblins... you name it. The empaths can erase memories and they basically police the Otherworld species to make sure that they don't interfere with humans. However, all of that power comes with a price, and most empaths go insane following their 27th birthday unless they find a mate to share their psychic burden.
The premise itself is a little weak. The weird "Fae Web" that the fae get above their head when they are collecting information was a bit cheesy and silly. Also, the concept of having to take a mate so the empaths don't go crazy... yeah, a little forced for my liking. However, I think that the mystery and the concepts presented here are good ones. I thought the world-building was well done and not a total info dump like I sometimes see. Though I had trouble getting into this book in the beginning, by the last 30% I was fully engaged and couldn't put the book down. The romance could have used a bit more umph at times but it was a nice slow build and not insta-love, which I dug.
Am I going to remember it in a month? Maybe not. But I think that if you are into light urban fantasy, you will enjoy this book. It really was a fun reading experience.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
I almost didn't read this book because of the cover. I mean, seriously. Come on. The guy playing Dylan looks about 50 years old and his f**3.5 stars**
I almost didn't read this book because of the cover. I mean, seriously. Come on. The guy playing Dylan looks about 50 years old and his face is photoshopped so he looks creepy not sexy. Here is who I had in mind for Dylan and Travis.
[image]
[image]
Granted, the Travis is a bit on the young-looking side here but he is supposed to be borderline effeminate looking so the guy on the original cover makes no sense. Okay, ending my cover rant...
I actually liked this one better than the first in the series. I felt more of a connection between the two characters, and I was more wrapped up in the reading experience. The idea of the dream hunter was clever, and I really liked learning more about the world of Arcada. However, I'm beginning to notice a trend with Belinda McBride's books. I never like them as much as I feel that I ought to, if that makes sense. This book had a lot going for it but I still wasn't emotionally invested in their characters. I can't pinpoint what is missing but I feel like something is not 100% there for me. Maybe I'm missing some humor or witty banter like in the Immortals After Dark series (which this reminds me of a bit with all of the different types of paranormal life mixing). Though this won't make my favorite's list, it was still a cute and sweet read and I really enjoyed it.
**This book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**...more
**Wow! Amazing 88% price drop to $0.99 at Amazon US, 3/17/14!**
What a great Goodreads giveaway win!
I started this book feeling a bit underwhelmed. T**Wow! Amazing 88% price drop to $0.99 at Amazon US, 3/17/14!**
What a great Goodreads giveaway win!
I started this book feeling a bit underwhelmed. There are a whole lot of deities mentioned in this book along with shifters, the fae, vampires, druids, and witches. Whew! I was a bit bogged down with all of the people to remember and sort through. Honestly, if I hadn't read many UF books before, I would have been completely lost. It just didn't... grab me. I could have dropped the book in the first 50 pages. I also had a bit of trouble connecting with a male protagonist. And no romance to speak of?? However, as I read further and further, I started really enjoying myself. I got into a urban fantasy groove, so to speak.
It is very hard not to fall in love with Atticus and Oberon. They have a sarcastic, pop culture-y, dry sense of humor that is very enjoyable to read. I loved their banter. And as the action picked up, I was pressing my nose to the pages (metaphorically!) to get further into the scenes. I began really really loving it. The end had a nice high energy zing and it left me excited to read more. ...more
Heather K (dentist in my spare time)
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