**And just an FYI: if you see a book listed on my blog that is part of a series, just go ahead and assume that I've read all the books, or am working on reading ALL the books within that series. I may not always list them on here but trust me - they were read.

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Outlander

Author: Diana Gabaldon

Let's see if I can explain this book..... on second thought - it might be better to give you what the author wrote on her website as her description of her own book.


       In 1946, after WWII, a young Englishwoman named Claire Beauchamp Randall goes to the Scottish Highlands with her husband, Frank.   She’s an ex-combat nurse, he’s been in the army as well, they’ve been separated for the last six years, and this is a second honeymoon; they’re getting re-acquainted with each other, thinking of starting a family.  But one day Claire goes out walking by herself, and comes across a circle of standing stones–such circles are in fact common all over northern Britain.  She walks through a cleft stone in the circle….and disappears.  Back into 1743, where the first person she meets is a gentleman in an 18th-century army officer’s uniform.  This gentleman, Jack Randall, looks just like her husband Frank–and proves to be Frank’s six-times-great-grandfather.
     Unfortunately, he also proves to be a sadistic bisexual pervert, and while trying to escape from him, Claire falls into the hands of a gang of Highland Scots, who are also trying to get away from Black Jack Randall–though for other reasons.
       In order to avoid being handed over to Captain Randall, Claire is obliged to marry one of the young clansmen.  So she finds herself trying to escape from Castle Leoch and her Scottish captors, trying to get back to her husband Frank, trying to avoid being recaptured by Captain Randall–and falling in love with Jamie Fraser, the young man she’s been forced to marry.   The story rolls on from there…

So there you have it. I know I enjoyed the book - but a warning to those who have over-active imaginations like myself.....do NOT read this book before bed. I had a really hard time sleeping after reading this book because of some of the things that happen, described in detail. I suggest putting it down and give yourself time to put other things in your mind to dream and think on.

Now....get to reading!

Lover Enshrined

Author: J.R. Ward

Ohhh....sweet Phury. Always sacrificing himself for others. Being a celibate you have to wonder why he chose to become Primale of the Chosen, the one obligated to create the sons and daughters of the race...

Cormina. Phury's Chosen First Mate, has a little bit of her own life to figure out as well. Being placed into the position she's in by the former Directrix, Phury isn't sure he can "take advantage" of her. But what he doesn't understand is that Cormina is falling for him. So he keeps her a safe distance away until he can stand it no longer, only to hate himself after for putting her in a position she can do nothing to change.

And John Matthew....one of my favorite Brother's. His story comes along too. His history is exposed (and if you don't know what that history is - I have NO intention of telling you here) to his friends and his enemy, Lash. Quinn takes matters in his own hands and make decisions that will change his life, and Lash's' forever.

If you haven't started reading The Black Dagger Brotherhood, jump on this bandwagon and get to reading! Seriously. It's really good. ;) Check out Ward's website for a chance to read chapters out of each of her books and see if it's something you would enjoy....although I know you'll love them as much as I do.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Last Sacrifice: A Vampire Academy Novel

Author: Richelle Mead

This, the last book in Rose Hathaway's journey, is the best ending to a series in my opinion. Although it does leave open some options for future books - Richelle Mead has made it clear that this was the last book for Rose and Lissa - but not necessarily the characters throughout the book. She's creating a "spin-off" from this one involving Adrian, Jill, Eddie and others. :)

So...Rose is accused of murdering the Queen. Locked in jail and awaiting trial that would likely be a death sentence is not how she pictured her life going once she rescued Dimitri. Being busted out by him, her father, and several guardians who believe that she's totally innocent wasn't expected either....but hey - she couldn't say "No thanks, I like the cave I'm in right now", could she.

So with that beginning we start that last tale. Rose and Dimitri are "on the run" just trying to hide from everyone long enough for Rose's friends to figure who's set her up for murder. But we ALL know Rose isn't one to just back and wait...she wants to help Lissa figure this out, and believes she knows the way to do so....if she can talk Dimitri into it.


Such a great book. All the books in this series were a lot of fun and easy to read. The next series involving some of these characters is due out August 23rd of this year. :)

Entice

Author: Carrie Jones

This is the third book in the 'Need' Series. It's a young adult novel and a quick, entertaining read. It's all about Pixies, Weres, Elves, Gods, and of course humans.


In this particular book we follow Zara as she tries to find a way to save Nick. He was killed in the last book but was technically 'saved' and taken to Vahalla since he was such a fierce warrior. Zara is desperate to get him but nervous too because Nick doesn't know she chose to become Pixie herself just so she could save him. And to top it off....not only is she just a Pixie, but she's Astley's Queen.

Astley has vowed to help Zara get her wolf back, if only to see her happy again, but that's not the only reason. He's got some dark secrets he's been keeping from her and if she finds out what they are...then what? Will his reign be over or will Zara forgive him?

Carrie Jones is a fun author to read. I'd suggest these books to anyone - young or not. The ONLY thing I don't like is having to wait for another one (but that's pretty much true for any book).... it'll be worth it though. :)

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Lover Unbound

Author: J.R. Ward

*giggles*.....The story of Vishous. Oh, could it get any better? I think NOT. Member of the Black Dagger Brotherhood Vishous possesses a destructive curse and has the ability to see into the future. He is definitely not who you would want to piss off.

Never believing in the whole bonding ritual, let alone that he would ever find someone that would satisfy his urges, V finds himself confused when he wakes in a human hospital and is extremely territorial over the Doctor who saved him.

To top it off V finally meets his real Mom only to find out that he's the Chosen one who is supposed 'repopulate' the species as it were.

 J.R. Ward is at the top of my favorite authors list....perhaps I should make one of those and post it to my blog here?? I think I might.

Enjoy!!

Pale Demon


Author: Kim Harrison

This is the 9th book in the Rachel Morgan Series....and it's so hard to put down. I ♥ it.

In this book we continue Rachel's story. She's been shunned by her community as a 'Black Witch' and is scheduled to be at her hearing in just a matter of days. Getting there however is going to be a problem. Since the same witches who are in charge of her hearing are also gunning for her the whole way to California. And to top it of, Trent Kalamack has approached Rachel to accompany him to California as 'security ' for himself and for her. His thought is the witches after Rachel won't attack if he's with her.... a slight miscalculation on his part.

So the road trip begins. Will Rachel be banished to the EverAfter to live with Al or be pardoned for doing the Black Magic she's done in the past? Is Rachel truly a Black Witch, a Demon, or a White Witch who can just do Black Magic?? Rachel fights with herself over whether or not Trent is trustworthy, whether or not she's more a liability to her friends than not....and whether or not she can trust herself.

Such a great book!! I've already started buying the Ebooks as they come on sale. It's a series I could read over and over. Give Kim Harrison a try, she's awesome!!

Monday, February 14, 2011

Lover Revealed : Black Dagger Brotherhood

Author: J.R. Ward

I ♥ J.R.Ward! *giggles*
This is the fourth book for the series and I cannot stress enough how great this author is. When I get her books and open one up I CANNOT put it down. Seriously guys...awesomeness is what these books are.

This is the story of Butch O'neal. An Ex-homicide detective who has become the ONLY human allowed into the Black Dagger Brotherhood. Butch fell in love with Marissa during the last book and their story continues. With the Lesser's starting to take civilian vampires for torture and information Butch finds himself in their clutches. Being tortured beyond his limits, his best friend V finds him in the woods and brings him back from the brink of death. He also calls in Marissa. But even with her there it may not be enough to save his life.

I just cannot tell you enough how much I enjoy this author. Go get them from your local library or book store. Totally worth it! Then come back and let me know how you guys liked them.

Bring it On: A Retrievers Novel


Author: Laura Anne Gilman

This is the third book in her Retriever's Series. It is not one of my favorites...but it is still a good. read. 

In this book Wren and Sergei are going broke....seriously. Wren decides to take a job without letting Sergei know about it. Sergei also is trying to lessen the stress on the two of them and takes a job without Wren knowing about it. Cause for disaster, I know. 

So....Wren gets to planning. Turns out what she's after is actually an old Artifact. And that changes her game plan on how to get it, store it, and keep it out of the Councils hands. 

In the mean time more Lonejacks are being singled out although the council claims to have nothing to do with those disappearances, Wren isn't so sure. She was ALWAYS taught "Don't get involved"....but it looks like there's no other option for her if she wants to save her friends and those close to her.

Like I said...not one of my favorite books, but still important to the story as a whole.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Venom: An Elemental Assassin Novel

Author: Jennifer Estep


In this, the third book of her Elemental Assassin Novels, Estep does not disappoint. You will find yourself rooting for Gin all the way...even while she's killing.

I'm going to quote the back cover of this book because it's just to perfect an explanation of Gin and her life not to.

         It's hard to be a badass assassin when a giant is beating the crap out of you. Luckily, I never let my pride get in the way of my work. My current mission is personal: annihilate Mab Monroe, the Fire elemental who murdered my family. Which means protecting my identity, even if I have to conceal my powerful Stone and Ice magic when I need it most. To the public, I'm Gin Blanco, owner of Ashland's best  barbecue joint. To my friends, I'm the Spider, retired assassin. I still do favors on the side. Like ridding a vampire friend of her oversize stalker - Mab's right-hand goon who almost got me dead with his massive fists. At least irresistible Owen Grayson is on my side. The man knows too much about me, but I'll take my chances. Then there's Detective Bria Coolidge, one of Ashland's finest. Until recently, I thought my baby sister was dead. She probably thinks the same about me. Little does she know, I'm a cold blooded killer...who is about to save her life.

This book is too much fun NOT to share it with you guys. So far I've enjoyed every single book of Jennifer Estep's that I've read. Here's hoping you do too!!

My favorite quote out of this book comes from when Gin tells Owen exactly what she is... an assassin.
"Besides, " Owen continued. "If you're as good as you say you are, I wouldn't make it to the door anyway."
"No, you wouldn't," I replied in a quiet voice.

Friday, January 28, 2011

Taken by the Others: An H&W Investigations Novel

Author: Jess Haines

This is the second book in this series. The first book called Hunted by the Others, I read in December.

Shiarra Waynest is a P.I. in New York City. Her main concern used to be just making sure her business had enough money to stay afloat. Now, her main concern is staying alive. Max Carlyle has come in to town looking for revenge. Apparently he's picked Shia as his target because he blames her for the death of his progeny. And on top of that Max and Alec Royce (the vampire she's contractually bound to and leader of the city) already have a dodgy past that may come back to haunt Shia....

On top of all this, the White Hats (a human anti-other group) is pressuring Shia to join their cause in eliminating ALL others. Shia of course cannot join his group. Her boyfriend is a were, she's bound to a powerful vampire and she's finding unexpected shades of grey in what she used to believe about Others. Not all of them are evil. Many are only out of control when provoked. But most are just normal citizens who have lives, families, children even....and they do not deserve to be slaughtered like the White Hats want.  

Jess Haines is a very entertaining author. Go check out her website and you can read the first chapters from these books. The third book in the series will be out July 5, 2011!

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Chosen : An Anna Strong, Vampire Novel

Author: Jeanne C. Stein

This is the sixth book in the Anna Strong novels. I'd tell you when I read the others, only I can't remember. It's been a while obviously. :)

I know this is yet another book about a female heroine who is a vampire - but it's a great one. If you've ever read anything by Kim Harrison (Rachel Morgan Series), Laurell K. Hamilton (Anita Blake and Merry Gentry Series), or Charlaine Harris (Sookie Stackhouse Series, aka True Blood on HBO) you are going to LOVE Jeanne C. Stein, absolutely no doubt in my mind.

It's almost been a year since Anna was attacked and turned into a vampire. She hasn't quit her day job as a bounty hunter. She really loves the illusion of being human and having a job and whatnot. But she's noticed that some of her "vampire" abilities are getting harder to control. With the anniversary of her turning looming around the corner she's getting nervous. SO many other vampire and other supernatural beings believe that she is The Chosen One. The ONE who will determine the role vampire's will play for the next 200 years in society. Will she let them run crazy on mankind and have them be the Gods so many of them believe themselves to be, or will she keep them where they are and keep trying to assimilate into a human society?

Anna is just as confused as to why she was chosen for this role. Why her? What makes her so special that she can walk through fire and not go up like a candle?? And is there a subconscious reason she can't tell Lance that she loves him?? I happen to think yes, there is.

Alright....I have to tell you that Jeanne C. Stein is one of my favorite authors. Please go check out her work, you won't regret it.
 



Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Web of Lies: An Elemental Assassin Novel

Author: Jennifer Estep

This is the second book in the Elemental Assassin Series and a fun read! I read the first book, Spider's Bite, back in December.


Gin Blanco has decided to honor her adopted fathers last wish and has decided to retire from the assassin business. But when two punk teenagers come into her Pork Pit and try rob it - well...it's not like she'd just let that happen. Turns out one of the misguided teens is son to a, no THE, hotshot lawyer in town. Who also happens to be Mab Monroe's (self proclaimed Queen of Ashland and powerful Fire Elemental) lawyer.
 
Since Fletcher's death Gin has been BORED out of her mind. But when a girl comes into her restaurant asking for the "Tin Man" because she needs his help - curiosity gets the better of her and she decides to help. Detective Caine happens to be a friend of the girl's family and tries to lend a hand as well....but he soon realizes it's not his type of help the family needs, it's Gin's.

Gin is up against some of the MOST powerful Elementals she's come across. She's got her Stone and Ice Magic to help her along the way....but she's not convinced it'll be enough.

Good read guys.....go check it out.



Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Persistence of Memory


I've read several other books written by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes and they were all pretty good. For a young author, I think she's excellent and will only get better. 

In this book we meet Erin Misrahe. A sixteen year old girl who suffers with schizophrenia from what most doctors say. She also has a tendency to panic which brings out her alter-ego named Shevaun. Shevaun is a violent ego who can and will hurt anyone around her. 

After having grown up in mental hospitals Erin has finally been rewarded with the chance at a normal life. Going to an actual Public High School. But as she watched her friend transform into a cat, Erin believes she's completely lost it...until her one time romance suddenly makes an appearance and hopes to help set her straight. 

Turns out Shevaun is NOT just an alter-ego, but a living person who's hundreds of years old. And now that she and her "family" realize that Erin is real too...they set out to find her and sever the link between them, even if that means Erins death....

Great young adult novel guys. Go check it out at your local library! 

Monday, January 24, 2011

Curse the Dark: A Retreivers Novel


This is is the second book in Laura Anne Gilman's Retrievers Series. I read the first one back in December called Staying Dead.

So we start where we left Wren and Sergei in the last book. Confused as to what their "personal" relationship really is and really frustrated to what their professional lives have become. After their last job, no one is coming to them for retrievals anymore. With her bank account dwindling and no work coming her way they cannot say no to the only job that presents itself...even if it is with the Silence. At least they are a guaranteed paycheck...

So now her and Sergei are on their way to Italy to track a mystical piece of parchment that could possibly make either of them disappear, if they happen to actually view what's written on it.

Wren is pushed to her limit by the time all is said and done...in all things physical, mystical, and mental.

This was a great, fun, easy read guys. I plan on checking out the next one after I finish some of what is waiting for me on my night stand.

HAPPY READING!!




Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Shadowfever



Author: Karen Marie Moning

I don't even know where to start because I am that excited over this author and her books. I started the Fever Series back in August and fell in love. I even got my neighbor addicted to them as well which is why we are going to KMM's book signing on Thursday!! I can't really talk about the book without giving away some of it's awesomeness to those of you who will read it so please forgive me if this isn't a great informational review.

Alright.... Mac, a 22 year old who is hell bent on NOT being the one to destroy the world. She came to Dublin to find her sister's murderer. But she's not sure who that is anymore. When the Sinsar Dubh, a book of dark, forbidden magic that can create and destroy worlds that was made by the Unseelie King, decides to start hunting for her, her life again decides to change everything she thought she knew.

The book starts hunting everyone Mac loves in this world, including her parents. The dreams Mac had as a child start up again. The Cold Dark Place. Not somewhere she ever wanted to go in real life. But...is she destined to anyway??

You guys have GOT to go get this series. The first book in the series is Darkfever, go request it from your local library!! And for my best neighbor ever..... JZB ALL the way!! ;)


Below is a picture of Cindy (aka best neighbor), KMM and myself from her book signing last night in Decatur, GA. This was our fist book signing for any author and it was awesome.


Death's Mistress


Author: Karen Chance

Ohhhh....where to start. I ♥ Karen Chance. I have previously read her Cassandra Palmer series and LOVED them, so I figure when she branched off that and started writing the Dorina Basarab series who was I to resist? Death's Mistress is the second novel in the series. The first is Midnight's Daughter which I read in December.

So we continue with the story of Dori, a dhampir, and daughter to one of the most powerful Senate members alive (if you could call a vampire alive). Now that she agreed to work with the Senate dispatching those they see worthy of death, she's got a steady paycheck, people to kill and she couldn't be happier.

When her best friend Claire shows up one night in a form that Dori is NOT used to, things start to change. The Fae that almost killed her is coming after Claire and her son, the heir to the Fae Thrown. Claire decides to let Dori help her find the relic that should prevent anyone from harming her son, ever. The only thing is, not everyone  is convinced that it's Claire and the boy he's after.

With a new mission from the Senate, trying to help Claire, trying to stay alive and worrying over Louis-Cesare....Dori's got a lot to take care of. Only NO ONE will give her ALL the facts of who she's chasing or why. Making her job more difficult and deadly for her.

You guys...this book is soooo much fun. Go check out her website. You can preview the first couple of chapters in any book she's written.

Awakened: House of Night Novel


Authors: P.C Cast + Kristen Cast

Alright, for those of you out there who do not know, this is the eighth book in the series. I started this series a while ago and was hooked right off the bat. It's got vampires, love, power, loss....everything you could want. However; with this last book they kinda let me down. Don't get me wrong, I'll still read when the next book comes out, but I will not be waiting first in line this time. And that kinda pains me a little to say, seeing as how my neighbor and I dressed and Zoey and Stevie Rae for Halloween (yes, I know we are in our 30's and to old to be playing dress up by most peoples standards, but it's fun and you should try it)

I have waited over a week to write this "review" thinking maybe I was just in a bad mood or something when I read it, that maybe with time I'd like it more. But I still feel that same way so here I am.

This book "continues" (I use the word lightly) with the story of Zoey Redbird and her fight with "evil" forces. It brings Zoey love she never knew, loss she never knew and she finds new strengths within herself and her friends. The part that disappointed me was that by the end, we are practically EXACTLY where we left of from book seven. Most of this book could have been stripped and told within a few chapters and we all would have gotten the point, and more importantly, gotten more of a story.

Anyway....now that's over with, the series is a really fun young adult novel series. Give it a shot. :)

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Torment


Author: Lauren Kate

This is the second book in the Fallen Series. Luce is shipped off to another school called Shoreline. Both Daniel (the love of her life who happens to be a fallen Angel but who sides with God) and Cam (another fallen Angel who does NOT side with God and is a constant thorn in her side) agreed that this would be the safest place for Luce right now. With a war about to happen, they both want her safe.

While at Shoreline, Luce learns what the strange shadows are that have been following her since she was little. She also learns how to manipulate them to see what messages they hold for her. While she's told that these shadows only tell a version of the past, it may not be the whole truth. But what she learns about herself, and Daniel, has her wondering if they really are supposed to be together. She knows she loves him with her whole self...but is that enough?? Her friends keep dying or getting hurt, because of them. And one shadow shows her things that rock her to her very core.

She also makes two new friends at Shoreline. Miles and Shelby. Although Miles is attractive, she doesn't start off seeing him that way. I mean, she loves Daniel. Always has though ALL their lives together. But something changes in Luce that she can't explain. And all of a sudden Cam is protecting her like he cares about her. She's so confused. She wants to know more about her past lives and she's determined to find out, with or without help.

Fun, fun read guys. Go pick it up. The next book in the series is called "Passion" and is due out Summer 2011.