(Originally reviewed Nov 2007)
Synopsis: A younger Rachel Morgan is confronted by her older brother about her decision to join the I.S. (Inderland Security) Her brother wants her to come west to be with him and to study advanced Earth Magic and gives her a test…if she can stir a spell and bring her father back as a ghost and her father says yes, her brother will sign the paper for her to join the I.S. But of course, things go wrong…
Thoughts: It’s wonderful to see a younger Rachel before she’s the tough chick running for, and from, the I.S. We get to meet her older brother, Robbie, and her first “crush”. To keep from being moved out to the West Coast with Robbie, Rachel stirs a “level 800” spell to bring her father’s ghost back so he can tell Robbie that Rachel should join the I.S. even though that’s what, apparently, killed him.
Other than the fact that the novella was too short, there wasn’t much to complain about. I enjoyed getting to know Pierce (Rachel’s first crush that was alluded to in a previous novel) and especially enjoyed seeing Rachel before she became “kick ass”. She’s still very weak from Rosewood Syndrome that almost killed her but she’s gaining strength, graduating from a 2 year magic degree program at the University of Cincinnati, and already showing the kind of grit it will take to get her into the I.S. and eventually kicked out of the I.S.
All in all, I give this one 4 out of 5 berries. Just 'cause it wasn't long enough to suit me. :o)
Monday, March 22, 2010
The Royal Mess by MaryJanice Davidson
(originally reviewed Nov 2007)
Synopsis: A reluctant princess and a determined Royal bodyguard are about to discover that, when it comes to powerful love, there are no defenses... (from the back flap)
So. Another Royal book. What more is there to say than it was one of the funniest things I've read in quite sometime. Of course, it IS a MaryJanice Davidson book so that really goes without saying.
Being a MJD book, and a "Royal" book no less, you have all the things you've come to expect. A sassy tell it like it is heroine, a "I love her but she's ROYAL and I'm so not but I just have to have her..." hero and the lovable, sarcastic royal family of Alaska.
It's not a deep book. In fact, it's a very easy book to read in an evening. Light and fun, I had my first chuckle on the 'quotes' page and really didn't stop chuckling until the book was over. (most of the reading time was spent in the bathtub. It's just that kind of book)
Of course, being a MJD Royal book, there's plenty of hot 'n steamy action but none of it graphic enough to make you want to lose your dinner. You know exactly how the book is going to end but there are a couple of twists along the way and you find yourself wishing that the book wouldn't end but sadly, it does. And the Author's note makes the parting even more bittersweet by letting the readers know that she's not planning on writing anymore Royal books. *deep sigh* So enjoy this one while you can.
Synopsis: A reluctant princess and a determined Royal bodyguard are about to discover that, when it comes to powerful love, there are no defenses... (from the back flap)
So. Another Royal book. What more is there to say than it was one of the funniest things I've read in quite sometime. Of course, it IS a MaryJanice Davidson book so that really goes without saying.
Being a MJD book, and a "Royal" book no less, you have all the things you've come to expect. A sassy tell it like it is heroine, a "I love her but she's ROYAL and I'm so not but I just have to have her..." hero and the lovable, sarcastic royal family of Alaska.
It's not a deep book. In fact, it's a very easy book to read in an evening. Light and fun, I had my first chuckle on the 'quotes' page and really didn't stop chuckling until the book was over. (most of the reading time was spent in the bathtub. It's just that kind of book)
Of course, being a MJD Royal book, there's plenty of hot 'n steamy action but none of it graphic enough to make you want to lose your dinner. You know exactly how the book is going to end but there are a couple of twists along the way and you find yourself wishing that the book wouldn't end but sadly, it does. And the Author's note makes the parting even more bittersweet by letting the readers know that she's not planning on writing anymore Royal books. *deep sigh* So enjoy this one while you can.
Iron Kissed by Patricia Briggs
(originally reviewed Jan 2008)
3rd in the Mercedes “Mercy” Thompson books, Iron Kissed takes you on another wild ride with everyone’s favorite Walker.
The book starts out with Mercy, Kyle and Warren having a movie night. Mercy gets a phone call from her mentor and friend, Zee, asking her to come out to the reservation. (Or Fairyland as it’s called.) Mercy goes and meets Zee who informs her that there have been numerous fey killings and he needs her help, in her coyote form, to try and find the killer. However, Zee warns her, she needs to keep her eyes on the job so that the greater fey don’t suspect her of knowing more than she does…or should.
Thorough out all of the intrigue is the decisions Mercy has to make regarding Samuel and Adam. She does finally make her choice…And of course Mercy gets into trouble and the fey target her for execution. She eventually figures out…or stumbles upon…the killer and falls into his trap.
What happens next is hard to read. Suffice it to say, I cried through the last 3 chapters of the book. But the ending is NOT sad. It’s very uplifting and very Mercy. You leave the book with a smile on your face and a longing for the fourth to come out tomorrow.
I adore this series and the books keep getting better. I did have some trouble following the fey storyline but it didn’t take away from the enjoyment I received from reading this installment.
4.5 Berries out of 5
3rd in the Mercedes “Mercy” Thompson books, Iron Kissed takes you on another wild ride with everyone’s favorite Walker.
The book starts out with Mercy, Kyle and Warren having a movie night. Mercy gets a phone call from her mentor and friend, Zee, asking her to come out to the reservation. (Or Fairyland as it’s called.) Mercy goes and meets Zee who informs her that there have been numerous fey killings and he needs her help, in her coyote form, to try and find the killer. However, Zee warns her, she needs to keep her eyes on the job so that the greater fey don’t suspect her of knowing more than she does…or should.
Thorough out all of the intrigue is the decisions Mercy has to make regarding Samuel and Adam. She does finally make her choice…And of course Mercy gets into trouble and the fey target her for execution. She eventually figures out…or stumbles upon…the killer and falls into his trap.
What happens next is hard to read. Suffice it to say, I cried through the last 3 chapters of the book. But the ending is NOT sad. It’s very uplifting and very Mercy. You leave the book with a smile on your face and a longing for the fourth to come out tomorrow.
I adore this series and the books keep getting better. I did have some trouble following the fey storyline but it didn’t take away from the enjoyment I received from reading this installment.
4.5 Berries out of 5
Stray by Rachel Vincent
(originally reviewed October 2008)
Yep, another "paranormal" book review.
Stray, by newcomer Rachel Vincent, is the story of Faythe Sanders, a college student and werecat.
I bought this because of the cat theme (I love cats) and because a favorite writer, Kim Harrison, recommended it. I'm not sorry, it was a good story overall but...as Publisher's Weekly put it:
"Vincent's debut, an urban werecat fantasy, is a good story that suffers from about 200 pages of bloat"
and
"Unfortunately, they [Marc and Faythe the lead characters] both have frustrating character tics that are only exacerbated by the novel's length: Faythe is more often too-stubborn-to-live than kick-ass, and all the tears Marc wells up over Faythe don't forgive his insufferable jealousy."
I would recommend catching a copy of this at the library so you can decide for yourself if you want to go further with the series (next up is Rogue and then Pride coming in '09) although Ms. Vincent DOES create a unique and very very interesting world.
I'm looking forward to seeing what Rogue has to offer, but I'm hoping that Marc gets over his "bad" self and Faythe remembers that she does, indeed, have a brain.
3 out of 5 berries because the ending was pretty fast paced and kept me reading far into the night.
Yep, another "paranormal" book review.
Stray, by newcomer Rachel Vincent, is the story of Faythe Sanders, a college student and werecat.
I bought this because of the cat theme (I love cats) and because a favorite writer, Kim Harrison, recommended it. I'm not sorry, it was a good story overall but...as Publisher's Weekly put it:
"Vincent's debut, an urban werecat fantasy, is a good story that suffers from about 200 pages of bloat"
and
"Unfortunately, they [Marc and Faythe the lead characters] both have frustrating character tics that are only exacerbated by the novel's length: Faythe is more often too-stubborn-to-live than kick-ass, and all the tears Marc wells up over Faythe don't forgive his insufferable jealousy."
I would recommend catching a copy of this at the library so you can decide for yourself if you want to go further with the series (next up is Rogue and then Pride coming in '09) although Ms. Vincent DOES create a unique and very very interesting world.
I'm looking forward to seeing what Rogue has to offer, but I'm hoping that Marc gets over his "bad" self and Faythe remembers that she does, indeed, have a brain.
3 out of 5 berries because the ending was pretty fast paced and kept me reading far into the night.
Accidental Sorcerer by K.E. Mills
(originally reviewed April 2009)
Accidental Sorcerer starts of a little heavy, ponderous, wordy. However, after the first couple of chapters are over, the book fairly soars with fun, intrigue and danger.
Gerald Dunwoody, a Third grade level wizard, isn't having a good day at his current job. In fact, it's such a BAD day, Gerald gets fired...
And then the adventure begins.
Accidental Sorcerer is a sort of cross between Harry Dresden and light epic fantasy. Not quite as "dark" as the Dresden Files, there's still enough intrigue, danger and laughs to capture any Harry fan.
I really enjoyed this book. Ms. Mills (Miller) has started a new trilogy with a bang (and a pop!) that has left me hungering for the next book, Witches Incorporated. (due out June 30th!)
4 out of 5 berries for this one!
Accidental Sorcerer starts of a little heavy, ponderous, wordy. However, after the first couple of chapters are over, the book fairly soars with fun, intrigue and danger.
Gerald Dunwoody, a Third grade level wizard, isn't having a good day at his current job. In fact, it's such a BAD day, Gerald gets fired...
And then the adventure begins.
Accidental Sorcerer is a sort of cross between Harry Dresden and light epic fantasy. Not quite as "dark" as the Dresden Files, there's still enough intrigue, danger and laughs to capture any Harry fan.
I really enjoyed this book. Ms. Mills (Miller) has started a new trilogy with a bang (and a pop!) that has left me hungering for the next book, Witches Incorporated. (due out June 30th!)
4 out of 5 berries for this one!
The Outlaw Demon Wales by Kim Harrison
(originally reviewed March 2008)
I just finished this last night and I'm still blinking my eyes over it.
Let me say off the bat, it's a GOOD book. It isn't one that you just can't put down, but it's a very good book.
Actually, that I COULD put it down made it a better book for me. I was able to digest some of the action and dialog that was going on throughout the book.
The plot was engaging and you learn quite a bit about Rachel, her Mom and even her brother in the course of the story. Ivy and Rachel start coming to terms with their relationship and even Ceri has a surprise in store for you. Rachel makes a new friend as well but...alas...we don't get to know much about them in this book.
The parts I had problems with were the reintroduction of Marshall, a bunch of the Demon stuff and the ending revelation that Rachel has. For me, it sort of smacks of Anita Blake...starts out as a normal everyday whatever and over the course of the books becomes SUPER ANITA! *G* I do have to say, it makes SENSE, but...I can't help wishing that it hadn't come about...yet.
But I do like Rachel much more and the way Ms. Harrison is bringing the changes about is MUCH better than Ms. Hamilton's never ending sexcapades.
All in all, I'm giving this book a 3.75 out of 5 berries. It is a 4 in most places but the problems I had with it made me want to give a 3.5. So I'm compromising. *G*
I just finished this last night and I'm still blinking my eyes over it.
Let me say off the bat, it's a GOOD book. It isn't one that you just can't put down, but it's a very good book.
Actually, that I COULD put it down made it a better book for me. I was able to digest some of the action and dialog that was going on throughout the book.
The plot was engaging and you learn quite a bit about Rachel, her Mom and even her brother in the course of the story. Ivy and Rachel start coming to terms with their relationship and even Ceri has a surprise in store for you. Rachel makes a new friend as well but...alas...we don't get to know much about them in this book.
The parts I had problems with were the reintroduction of Marshall, a bunch of the Demon stuff and the ending revelation that Rachel has. For me, it sort of smacks of Anita Blake...starts out as a normal everyday whatever and over the course of the books becomes SUPER ANITA! *G* I do have to say, it makes SENSE, but...I can't help wishing that it hadn't come about...yet.
But I do like Rachel much more and the way Ms. Harrison is bringing the changes about is MUCH better than Ms. Hamilton's never ending sexcapades.
All in all, I'm giving this book a 3.75 out of 5 berries. It is a 4 in most places but the problems I had with it made me want to give a 3.5. So I'm compromising. *G*
Swimming Without a Net (Fred the Mermaid book 2) by MaryJanice Davidson
(originally reviewed Dec 2007)
I think I've said before that I adore Ms. Davidson. She has a way with wit that makes me come back for more...and more...and more. Her Fred the mermaid series (oh please let it be a long series, Ms. Davidson! Please! Much longer than the Royals!! Please?) kicks off with Sleeping with the Fishes where Fred Bimm (the LEAST likable mermaid ever portrayed in fiction...from the book description from book one "Fred is not your ordinary mermaid. She's not blonde. She's not buxom. And she's definitely not perky. In fact, Fred can be downright cranky. And it doesn't help matters that her hair is blue.") is introduced along with her mother, Moon Bimm, best friend Jonas, Mer-Prince (er excuse me, Prince of the Undersea Folk I mean) Artur and Dr. (PhD AND MD) Thomas Pearson.
In this sequel, they're all (thankfully!) back along with a Deadwood loving Mer-King and many many Undersea Folk. However, the plot comes along and you find that the Undersea Folk are of 2 minds. Some (the "Air Breathers") want to "come out of the water closet" and others (the "Traditionals") want to be...well, traditional about it and stay hidden. Fred, being a child of both worlds, is invited to the resulting meeting, a "Pelagic" to discuss the pro's and con's of each decision.
Along the way, we get another glimpse into the romance of Jonas and Dr. Barb, Thomas' fascination with Mermaids (and his invention the "Underwater Recreation Vehicle or URV, pronounced irv) more of Fred's background and Fred FINALLY makes a choice between Thomas and Artur.
The resulting book is a fun, fluffy piece of mind candy that you'll want to return to time and again. It's going to be one of those "comfort reads" for me. You know the ones...where you don't know WHAT you want to read, you just know you HAVE to read SOMETHING and you turn to the same books time and again for this because they're so darn entertaining.
How can anyone not love an author like MaryJanice Davidson who dedicates Swimming Without a Net to "Everyone who has ever been irritated at a Disney Princess...Detox with Fred and rejoyce!" Her turn of phrase is hilarious as well. I almost wet the bed when Fred talked about her mother discovering her one night stand lover (Fred's father) was a merman when Moon's newborn baby "popped a tail" while being bathed for the first time. Ms. Davidson may not be the deepest writer out there but that's okay with me. I adore her and hope she'll be writing for many many decades to come.
Giving this book 4 out of 5 berries.
I think I've said before that I adore Ms. Davidson. She has a way with wit that makes me come back for more...and more...and more. Her Fred the mermaid series (oh please let it be a long series, Ms. Davidson! Please! Much longer than the Royals!! Please?) kicks off with Sleeping with the Fishes where Fred Bimm (the LEAST likable mermaid ever portrayed in fiction...from the book description from book one "Fred is not your ordinary mermaid. She's not blonde. She's not buxom. And she's definitely not perky. In fact, Fred can be downright cranky. And it doesn't help matters that her hair is blue.") is introduced along with her mother, Moon Bimm, best friend Jonas, Mer-Prince (er excuse me, Prince of the Undersea Folk I mean) Artur and Dr. (PhD AND MD) Thomas Pearson.
In this sequel, they're all (thankfully!) back along with a Deadwood loving Mer-King and many many Undersea Folk. However, the plot comes along and you find that the Undersea Folk are of 2 minds. Some (the "Air Breathers") want to "come out of the water closet" and others (the "Traditionals") want to be...well, traditional about it and stay hidden. Fred, being a child of both worlds, is invited to the resulting meeting, a "Pelagic" to discuss the pro's and con's of each decision.
Along the way, we get another glimpse into the romance of Jonas and Dr. Barb, Thomas' fascination with Mermaids (and his invention the "Underwater Recreation Vehicle or URV, pronounced irv) more of Fred's background and Fred FINALLY makes a choice between Thomas and Artur.
The resulting book is a fun, fluffy piece of mind candy that you'll want to return to time and again. It's going to be one of those "comfort reads" for me. You know the ones...where you don't know WHAT you want to read, you just know you HAVE to read SOMETHING and you turn to the same books time and again for this because they're so darn entertaining.
How can anyone not love an author like MaryJanice Davidson who dedicates Swimming Without a Net to "Everyone who has ever been irritated at a Disney Princess...Detox with Fred and rejoyce!" Her turn of phrase is hilarious as well. I almost wet the bed when Fred talked about her mother discovering her one night stand lover (Fred's father) was a merman when Moon's newborn baby "popped a tail" while being bathed for the first time. Ms. Davidson may not be the deepest writer out there but that's okay with me. I adore her and hope she'll be writing for many many decades to come.
Giving this book 4 out of 5 berries.
The Stepsister Scheme by Jim C Hines
(originally reviewed Sept 2009 - will be fleshed out)
Absolutely a fantastic book! There are few books that I can't put down and must burn the midnight, early dawn and into daytime oil to finish in one sitting. This was one of them. The Princess' stories are straight out of Grimm and NOT Disney. If you're looking for sweet and light, look elsewhere. If you're looking for good plot, good writing and good character development, look no further, The Stepsister Scheme has it all. Light humor and Dark delights, this book will draw you in and won't spit you back out until you're finished. 5 of 5 berries for this one. You DON'T want to miss it!
Absolutely a fantastic book! There are few books that I can't put down and must burn the midnight, early dawn and into daytime oil to finish in one sitting. This was one of them. The Princess' stories are straight out of Grimm and NOT Disney. If you're looking for sweet and light, look elsewhere. If you're looking for good plot, good writing and good character development, look no further, The Stepsister Scheme has it all. Light humor and Dark delights, this book will draw you in and won't spit you back out until you're finished. 5 of 5 berries for this one. You DON'T want to miss it!
Playing With Fire by Katie MacAlister
(originally reviewed May 2009)
(Katie MacAlister is also known as Katie Maxwell)
Playing With Fire opens up as May Northcott is attempting to steal an artifact from a powerful Mage. She has a particular aptitude for this since she is a Doppelganger, a being created when another being decides to forfeit one of their character traits to a Demon Lord. (in May's case it's her "twin sister's" common sense) Gabriel Tauhou is the Silver Wyvern, the leader of the Silver sept of Dragons. I think I'll leave the rest for y'all to find out. :o)
This is the first book in a new series by Ms. MacAlister and it promises to be good fun. There is some sex in the book and it's explicit but it's FAR less so than say LKH. MacAlister doesn't shy from calling a penis a penis either and I was SO very glad that I didn't have to giggle over phrases like "throbbing rod of love" or "his pulsing love spear".
The book is billed as a Paranormal Romance but, although there is romance in the book, the story is far more than just that. I'm really enjoying how Ms. MacAlister is fleshing out her Otherworld creation and Playing With Fire got me to be interested in another series of hers, The Aisling Grey, Guardian books. (I'd recommend reading those first if you don't want to be spoiled for the ending of the first book. And possibly others in the series as well.) Aisling and her crowd make more than just an appearance in this book.
As I said, this book is more than just a Para-Romance. It has intrigue, comedy and some fantastic Urban Fantasy elements as well. Fans of Ms. MacAlister's "Goth Faire" books (written as Katie Maxwell) would find these to be a grown up version...minus the faire. (sadly minus the faire.)
Besides, where else can you find a 3000 year old demon cum Newfie named Jim that is a canine version of Bob the Skull? (see Jim Butcher) (Jim first appears in You Slay Me, the first Aisling Grey, Guardian novel and he has some FANTASTICALLY hillarious lines in that!)
Recommend these books for anyone wanting a fun light fast read who doesn't mind reading the word "penis" during a sex scene.
4.5 berries for this one folks!
(Katie MacAlister is also known as Katie Maxwell)
Playing With Fire opens up as May Northcott is attempting to steal an artifact from a powerful Mage. She has a particular aptitude for this since she is a Doppelganger, a being created when another being decides to forfeit one of their character traits to a Demon Lord. (in May's case it's her "twin sister's" common sense) Gabriel Tauhou is the Silver Wyvern, the leader of the Silver sept of Dragons. I think I'll leave the rest for y'all to find out. :o)
This is the first book in a new series by Ms. MacAlister and it promises to be good fun. There is some sex in the book and it's explicit but it's FAR less so than say LKH. MacAlister doesn't shy from calling a penis a penis either and I was SO very glad that I didn't have to giggle over phrases like "throbbing rod of love" or "his pulsing love spear".
The book is billed as a Paranormal Romance but, although there is romance in the book, the story is far more than just that. I'm really enjoying how Ms. MacAlister is fleshing out her Otherworld creation and Playing With Fire got me to be interested in another series of hers, The Aisling Grey, Guardian books. (I'd recommend reading those first if you don't want to be spoiled for the ending of the first book. And possibly others in the series as well.) Aisling and her crowd make more than just an appearance in this book.
As I said, this book is more than just a Para-Romance. It has intrigue, comedy and some fantastic Urban Fantasy elements as well. Fans of Ms. MacAlister's "Goth Faire" books (written as Katie Maxwell) would find these to be a grown up version...minus the faire. (sadly minus the faire.)
Besides, where else can you find a 3000 year old demon cum Newfie named Jim that is a canine version of Bob the Skull? (see Jim Butcher) (Jim first appears in You Slay Me, the first Aisling Grey, Guardian novel and he has some FANTASTICALLY hillarious lines in that!)
Recommend these books for anyone wanting a fun light fast read who doesn't mind reading the word "penis" during a sex scene.
4.5 berries for this one folks!
The Convinent Marriage by Georgette Heyer
(originally reviewed Feb 2009)
I liked this book even though it felt a bit disjointed at times. Horry wasn't the lovable heroine you come to expect from Heyer's oeuvre, but she was very likable. Rule was less obviously "masterful" than other Heyer heroes, but you never got the sense that he couldn't BE masterful if he wanted to be so. I found him to be extremely likable and I think he might be one of my all time favorite romantic heroes. I wish he'd have had even more "page time".
I can't express just WHY I liked this book. In fact, I really feel like I shouldn't have liked it because it WAS so very disjointed. The reader sometimes gets lost as conversations wind around things that have nothing to do with the plot and events happen that leave you wondering "what??"
But that might be just why I like it. All in all I'd say, if you're a fan of Heyer and you haven't read The Convenient Marriage, do so. If you're just getting into Heyer's works, save this one for later. Start with Frederika or Cotillion.
4 berries out of 5.
I liked this book even though it felt a bit disjointed at times. Horry wasn't the lovable heroine you come to expect from Heyer's oeuvre, but she was very likable. Rule was less obviously "masterful" than other Heyer heroes, but you never got the sense that he couldn't BE masterful if he wanted to be so. I found him to be extremely likable and I think he might be one of my all time favorite romantic heroes. I wish he'd have had even more "page time".
I can't express just WHY I liked this book. In fact, I really feel like I shouldn't have liked it because it WAS so very disjointed. The reader sometimes gets lost as conversations wind around things that have nothing to do with the plot and events happen that leave you wondering "what??"
But that might be just why I like it. All in all I'd say, if you're a fan of Heyer and you haven't read The Convenient Marriage, do so. If you're just getting into Heyer's works, save this one for later. Start with Frederika or Cotillion.
4 berries out of 5.
Made From Scratch: Discovering the Pleasures of a Handmade Life by Jenna Woginrich
(Originally reviewed Jan 2009)
A delightful book filled with the author's experiences in creating her own homemade life and details on how YOU can create your own, Made from Scratch is probably one of the better books I've read in a long time. (not including the rereads I've been doing because I haven't been able to find something NEW that interests me!)
Ms. Woginrich takes us along on her journey in discovering the joys of raising chickens, keeping bees, dog sledding, creating music and vegetable gardening among other things. The chapters are short and end with information on how you can get started as well.
The book is well put together, funny and at times a bit sad as well. The author can be a bit..."granola" at times but this wasn't as off putting as it could have been. A fact for which I am MOST grateful and I am hoping that Ms. Woginrich will be putting out another book with more of her reminisces about her homesteading efforts. Her words are truly inspiring.
You can visit her farm at www.coldantlerfarm.blogspot.com
A delightful book filled with the author's experiences in creating her own homemade life and details on how YOU can create your own, Made from Scratch is probably one of the better books I've read in a long time. (not including the rereads I've been doing because I haven't been able to find something NEW that interests me!)
Ms. Woginrich takes us along on her journey in discovering the joys of raising chickens, keeping bees, dog sledding, creating music and vegetable gardening among other things. The chapters are short and end with information on how you can get started as well.
The book is well put together, funny and at times a bit sad as well. The author can be a bit..."granola" at times but this wasn't as off putting as it could have been. A fact for which I am MOST grateful and I am hoping that Ms. Woginrich will be putting out another book with more of her reminisces about her homesteading efforts. Her words are truly inspiring.
You can visit her farm at www.coldantlerfarm.blogspot.com
Blood Noir by Laurel K Hamilton
(originally reviewed July 2008 WARNING some explicit language)
Oh gee. Where do I begin with this travesty of a "book"?
I made it to about page 20 (chapter 7 or so) of Blood Noir. Then something shiny caught my eye and I just couldn't be fussed to pick up BN again to read another 20 chapters (6 pages or so.) Heck, I couldn't even be fussed to pick it up and fling it across the room to bang into the wall.
Yes, I'm being sarcastic (sort of) about the chapter length but really, I'm begining to hate the 2 paragraph chapters. It's irritating beyond belief, especially since the first 5 chapters were about Nathan, Jason and Anita having sex. But it's not about sex. No no really! At least, that's what Anita would have us believe.
Thank goodness in the 20 eye blindingly horrid pages I managed to wade through, Anita never once "screamed [her] pleasure into [his] mouth" as she was pretty much guaranteed to do at least twice for each sexual encounter she's had in the last 3 books.
Ms. Hamilton, I like Anita. I like that she's kick ass and super supernatural. I enjoy the PLOTS of the earlier books. I like the necromancy, the vampire stuff, the Were stuff. Even when it's eye-rollingly absurd. It's still fun. This...this...VOMIT that you've spewed onto precious tree pulp is just...well...gorge rising.
Go back to what worked, Ms. Hamilton. Please. Either that or dump Anita for awhile and go on with the other ideas you've had.
0 out of 5 berries for this one. Unless you like badly written graphic sex scenes with no eroticism whatsoever, give this one a miss. Even if you normally check 'em out of the library. Wasn't worth the 20 cents I had in late fees.
Oh gee. Where do I begin with this travesty of a "book"?
I made it to about page 20 (chapter 7 or so) of Blood Noir. Then something shiny caught my eye and I just couldn't be fussed to pick up BN again to read another 20 chapters (6 pages or so.) Heck, I couldn't even be fussed to pick it up and fling it across the room to bang into the wall.
Yes, I'm being sarcastic (sort of) about the chapter length but really, I'm begining to hate the 2 paragraph chapters. It's irritating beyond belief, especially since the first 5 chapters were about Nathan, Jason and Anita having sex. But it's not about sex. No no really! At least, that's what Anita would have us believe.
Thank goodness in the 20 eye blindingly horrid pages I managed to wade through, Anita never once "screamed [her] pleasure into [his] mouth" as she was pretty much guaranteed to do at least twice for each sexual encounter she's had in the last 3 books.
Ms. Hamilton, I like Anita. I like that she's kick ass and super supernatural. I enjoy the PLOTS of the earlier books. I like the necromancy, the vampire stuff, the Were stuff. Even when it's eye-rollingly absurd. It's still fun. This...this...VOMIT that you've spewed onto precious tree pulp is just...well...gorge rising.
Go back to what worked, Ms. Hamilton. Please. Either that or dump Anita for awhile and go on with the other ideas you've had.
0 out of 5 berries for this one. Unless you like badly written graphic sex scenes with no eroticism whatsoever, give this one a miss. Even if you normally check 'em out of the library. Wasn't worth the 20 cents I had in late fees.
Fitzwilliam Darcy, Gentleman by Pamela Aiden
(originally reviewed Feb 2008)
This is actually a trilogy consisting of An Assembly Such as This Duty and Desire and These Three Remain
If anyone was ever wondering just what was going on in Mr. Darcy's head during Pride and Prejudice, Pamela Aiden gives us a wonderful look inside that august man's head.
Starting off the night of the Assembly where Mr. Darcy and the Bingleys and Hursts descend on Meryton society, Ms Aiden takes us through the journey of Darcy's growing love for Elizabeth and the warring emotions of duty and desire that follow until his final realization of his love and the resulting rejection and rebuilding of his character.
Achingly lovely at times as well as frustratingly beautiful (you want to kick Darcy sometimes but you can't because the book is just so well crafted. *G*) this trilogy is a wonderful testament to the enduring Jane Austen. Ms. Aiden does a spectacular job of making the characters real as well as invoking the spirit of Ms. Austen so that you feel you actually ARE reading a true account of what Darcy was thinking in Jane's head as she was writing.
5 of 5 berries. I can't wait to have my very own copies of these.
(Reviewer's update: I own them all now!)
This is actually a trilogy consisting of An Assembly Such as This Duty and Desire and These Three Remain
If anyone was ever wondering just what was going on in Mr. Darcy's head during Pride and Prejudice, Pamela Aiden gives us a wonderful look inside that august man's head.
Starting off the night of the Assembly where Mr. Darcy and the Bingleys and Hursts descend on Meryton society, Ms Aiden takes us through the journey of Darcy's growing love for Elizabeth and the warring emotions of duty and desire that follow until his final realization of his love and the resulting rejection and rebuilding of his character.
Achingly lovely at times as well as frustratingly beautiful (you want to kick Darcy sometimes but you can't because the book is just so well crafted. *G*) this trilogy is a wonderful testament to the enduring Jane Austen. Ms. Aiden does a spectacular job of making the characters real as well as invoking the spirit of Ms. Austen so that you feel you actually ARE reading a true account of what Darcy was thinking in Jane's head as she was writing.
5 of 5 berries. I can't wait to have my very own copies of these.
(Reviewer's update: I own them all now!)
Marked #1 House of Night Novels by PC Cast & Kristen Cast
Lovely haunting novel by the author of Divine by Mistake and her daughter, Kristen.
Marked starts out with Zoey Redbird being marked by a Vampyre "tracker" while she's standing at her locker with her best friend. Immediately, the mark appears and Zoey is already condemned to being a freak by those who were, seconds ago, the closest friends she had.
Being marked means that Zoey will have to go to the House of Night, a vampyre school where fledglings are taught vampyre history (and sociology) and also where the young fledglings either take to the change or die.
You see, in Marked, when you are chosen by the Goddess Nyx (Goddess of the night) to become a vampyre, your DNA begins to change. If you aren't in the company of elder Vampyers, you will sicken and die. And even in the presence of those Adult vampyers, some still sicken and die.
Zoey fears the change at first and runs to her Cherokee Grandmother's Lavender farm where she, Zoey, comes face to face with the Goddess Nyx and receives more than just the outline of the crescent, she receives a full mark. Unheard of in a new fledgling and a sign that her powers are strong, Zoey becomes a curiosity for the new students which makes her apart from the crowd while bringing her close to those who will help her most in her journey.
The story really moves quickly and, at times, feels a bit rushed. You want the story to linger because the world that the Misses Cast have created feels familiar, comforting even while it feels alien.
All in all, a great start to what I hope will be a VERY long series. I really enjoyed this one.
Giving it 4.5 out of 5 berries.
Marked starts out with Zoey Redbird being marked by a Vampyre "tracker" while she's standing at her locker with her best friend. Immediately, the mark appears and Zoey is already condemned to being a freak by those who were, seconds ago, the closest friends she had.
Being marked means that Zoey will have to go to the House of Night, a vampyre school where fledglings are taught vampyre history (and sociology) and also where the young fledglings either take to the change or die.
You see, in Marked, when you are chosen by the Goddess Nyx (Goddess of the night) to become a vampyre, your DNA begins to change. If you aren't in the company of elder Vampyers, you will sicken and die. And even in the presence of those Adult vampyers, some still sicken and die.
Zoey fears the change at first and runs to her Cherokee Grandmother's Lavender farm where she, Zoey, comes face to face with the Goddess Nyx and receives more than just the outline of the crescent, she receives a full mark. Unheard of in a new fledgling and a sign that her powers are strong, Zoey becomes a curiosity for the new students which makes her apart from the crowd while bringing her close to those who will help her most in her journey.
The story really moves quickly and, at times, feels a bit rushed. You want the story to linger because the world that the Misses Cast have created feels familiar, comforting even while it feels alien.
All in all, a great start to what I hope will be a VERY long series. I really enjoyed this one.
Giving it 4.5 out of 5 berries.
New Moon by Stephanie Meyer
(originally reviewed Dec 2007)
I bought this last night, got home around 8:30 and headed to bed around 9 to start reading. I was finished by 3 am. Could NOT put it down.
New Moon picks up on Bella's birthday. She's not happy about turning a year "older" than Edward but agrees to go to a birthday party that Alice has planned for her out at the Cullen's house. She promises Edward that she'll "behave" (read: won't be grumpy and sarcastic) because this is the first real birthday the Cullen family has been able to celebrate for 70 some years and they're all excited.
Of course, being the klutzy Bella, while she is opening her presents she gets a paper cut. The family, reluctant "vegetarians" that they are, go nuts over the smell of just a little drop of blood. Uproar takes place and, in the end, the Cullen family decides to leave the tiny town of Forks. Edward breaks it off with Bella, believing that she'll be better off without him, stating that it's been fun but...yeah...and tells her "it'll be as if I were never here" and leaves her taking all memorabilia from their time together so she has nothing but her memories...
Bella spends the next few months in emotional withdrawal from everything she loves. She pulls away from everyone, her father, her mother who has flown up from Florida, her school friends. She finally begins to recover when she renews her friendship with Jacob Black, an American Indian living on the reservation outside of Forks.
Then, just as everything starts to come alive for Bella, Jacob gets sucked into a "cult" and begins to change.
The themes in the book might seem trite and over done but Ms. Meyer has once again taken the familiar and made them hauntingly new.
I ached for Bella as I read this book. I cried when Edward and the Cullen family left her. I wanted desperately to be there, to hold Bella while she cried, while she was having the never ending nightmares that stalked her through the months of her absolute desolation. The end of the book...again starting around the last 1/3...gave me hope, made me happy and sad again.
Once I finished this book, I cried. Not because it was over, although I did want it to continue forever, but because it was beautifully done. Hope was not in vain and the book continues to weave itself into my thoughts and even my dreams.
I'm giving this one 5 of 5 berries as well.
I bought this last night, got home around 8:30 and headed to bed around 9 to start reading. I was finished by 3 am. Could NOT put it down.
New Moon picks up on Bella's birthday. She's not happy about turning a year "older" than Edward but agrees to go to a birthday party that Alice has planned for her out at the Cullen's house. She promises Edward that she'll "behave" (read: won't be grumpy and sarcastic) because this is the first real birthday the Cullen family has been able to celebrate for 70 some years and they're all excited.
Of course, being the klutzy Bella, while she is opening her presents she gets a paper cut. The family, reluctant "vegetarians" that they are, go nuts over the smell of just a little drop of blood. Uproar takes place and, in the end, the Cullen family decides to leave the tiny town of Forks. Edward breaks it off with Bella, believing that she'll be better off without him, stating that it's been fun but...yeah...and tells her "it'll be as if I were never here" and leaves her taking all memorabilia from their time together so she has nothing but her memories...
Bella spends the next few months in emotional withdrawal from everything she loves. She pulls away from everyone, her father, her mother who has flown up from Florida, her school friends. She finally begins to recover when she renews her friendship with Jacob Black, an American Indian living on the reservation outside of Forks.
Then, just as everything starts to come alive for Bella, Jacob gets sucked into a "cult" and begins to change.
The themes in the book might seem trite and over done but Ms. Meyer has once again taken the familiar and made them hauntingly new.
I ached for Bella as I read this book. I cried when Edward and the Cullen family left her. I wanted desperately to be there, to hold Bella while she cried, while she was having the never ending nightmares that stalked her through the months of her absolute desolation. The end of the book...again starting around the last 1/3...gave me hope, made me happy and sad again.
Once I finished this book, I cried. Not because it was over, although I did want it to continue forever, but because it was beautifully done. Hope was not in vain and the book continues to weave itself into my thoughts and even my dreams.
I'm giving this one 5 of 5 berries as well.
Twilight by Stephanie Meyer
(originally written in Dec 2007)
I bought this book 6 months ago because everyone was telling me how wonderful it was and of course, my library had book 2 and 3 of the series but not book 1. Then, when it came from Amazon, I set it aside. I'm not sure if I was afraid that it wouldn't be as good as everyone assured me it was, or if I wanted to savor the discovery of a new author or what, but I'm very glad I did wait.
Because the wait was so worth it.
Twilight starts out with17 year old High School Junior, Isabella "Bella" Swann moving from sunny Scottsdale,AZ to Forks, WA where it rains pretty much 362 days of the year. Her first day at school she meets Edward, a beautiful mysterious "boy" who seems to hate her. Intensely bothered by his apparent hatred, Bella tries to ignore him. But it's already too late. She's attracted to him and he to her. The revelation that Edward is a vampire (of the "vegetarian" variety...they dine on animals instead of humans) is almost anticlimactic, Bella's apparent nonchalance is more compelling given Edward's insistence that they not become friends. Again it's too late. They fall in love and Bella is introduced to the vampiric world by Edward.
Ms. Meyer has beautifully recreated the vampire mythos in this book. While it is a book aimed at the YA crowd, it is surprisingly sensual in its delivery. I've read much smuttier (much much smuttier) books than this and have been "meh" about them. With Twilight, I found myself a bit aroused by the tender love story between Bella and Edward. This is not to say that the book is unsuitable for the younger audience, (although I probably wouldn't give it to anyone under the age of 15) and I also wouldn't say that it is a "romance" novel either. There is action, almost terrifyingly so, toward the last 1/3 of the book.
I will be going out and buying the next two novels in the series (in hardback!) and will report on them here. I truly fell in love with this book. It gets, and deserves, 5 out of 5 berries.
I bought this book 6 months ago because everyone was telling me how wonderful it was and of course, my library had book 2 and 3 of the series but not book 1. Then, when it came from Amazon, I set it aside. I'm not sure if I was afraid that it wouldn't be as good as everyone assured me it was, or if I wanted to savor the discovery of a new author or what, but I'm very glad I did wait.
Because the wait was so worth it.
Twilight starts out with17 year old High School Junior, Isabella "Bella" Swann moving from sunny Scottsdale,AZ to Forks, WA where it rains pretty much 362 days of the year. Her first day at school she meets Edward, a beautiful mysterious "boy" who seems to hate her. Intensely bothered by his apparent hatred, Bella tries to ignore him. But it's already too late. She's attracted to him and he to her. The revelation that Edward is a vampire (of the "vegetarian" variety...they dine on animals instead of humans) is almost anticlimactic, Bella's apparent nonchalance is more compelling given Edward's insistence that they not become friends. Again it's too late. They fall in love and Bella is introduced to the vampiric world by Edward.
Ms. Meyer has beautifully recreated the vampire mythos in this book. While it is a book aimed at the YA crowd, it is surprisingly sensual in its delivery. I've read much smuttier (much much smuttier) books than this and have been "meh" about them. With Twilight, I found myself a bit aroused by the tender love story between Bella and Edward. This is not to say that the book is unsuitable for the younger audience, (although I probably wouldn't give it to anyone under the age of 15) and I also wouldn't say that it is a "romance" novel either. There is action, almost terrifyingly so, toward the last 1/3 of the book.
I will be going out and buying the next two novels in the series (in hardback!) and will report on them here. I truly fell in love with this book. It gets, and deserves, 5 out of 5 berries.
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Books are my passion. I'll read just about anything I can get my hands on and I LOVE to review!
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Now...onto the reviews!
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