The Tropic of Serpents by Marie Brennan

Series: Memoir by Lady Trent #2
331p.
Publisher: Tor Books
Available Now
Source: From publisher for review

The thrilling adventure of Lady Trent continues in Marie Brennan's The Tropic of Serpents... 

Attentive readers of Lady Trent’s earlier memoir, A Natural History of Dragons, are already familiar with how a bookish and determined young woman named Isabella first set out on the historic course that would one day lead her to becoming the world’s premier dragon naturalist. Now, in this remarkably candid second volume, Lady Trent looks back at the next stage of her illustrious (and occasionally scandalous) career. 

Three years after her fateful journeys through the forbidding mountains of Vystrana, Mrs. Camherst defies family and convention to embark on an expedition to the war-torn continent of Eriga, home of such exotic draconian species as the grass-dwelling snakes of the savannah, arboreal tree snakes, and, most elusive of all, the legendary swamp-wyrms of the tropics. 

The expedition is not an easy one. Accompanied by both an old associate and a runaway heiress, Isabella must brave oppressive heat, merciless fevers, palace intrigues, gossip, and other hazards in order to satisfy her boundless fascination with all things draconian, even if it means venturing deep into the forbidden jungle known as the Green Hell . . . where her courage, resourcefulness, and scientific curiosity will be tested as never before.

My thoughts:
 I reviewed the first book, A Natural History of Dragons and was surprised at the story within. I totally admit I was drawn to that first volume primarily because of the illustrations in the book. This book also has illustrations from the same artist, Todd Lockwood. Even though they are fewer in number, they are no less spectacular in this volume as well.

In this story again the fascination is with dragons and how to properly study them. The preservation of dragon bone is not only of scientific importance but one that may decimate the dragon population. This was discussed a lot within the group, but still they went ahead with the expedition and preservation. I was curious as to why it wasn't abandoned (other than scientific curiosity) because none of them wanted the dragons to become extinct. Still, this reason did give their group background and financial backing to go in search of dragons and learn more about them.

The story also has a decidedly fantasy flair to it and some people might be a bit confused as to where these things are in the world. If you realize that her world isn't ours and that the names to the countries and groups of people don't belong us... you sort of get used to who is who and where things are in relation to another. In a way, learning a new language set in this world. It does not take long to get used to things. It does seem somewhat familiar, however, since there are similarities to those in Victorian times and sensibilities.

I give this book 4 stars. It's a interesting venture into lands unknown and learning about dragons as if they were real. I really enjoyed her adventure, but didn't really enjoy the political aspects to the story at the beginning. However, that aspect grew on me and I think the political parts help to make parts of her adventure make sense and why she was accepted into various cultures. It also gave a great background to the ending. You also could read this book as a standalone, but I would suggest you get the first volume to find out where her fascination started as well as the great illustrations in the first book.

Bloggy note:

If you missed it, you can win one of 3 HB books of The Tropic of Serpents! Just go HERE to go to that post to enter. US/CAN only.

Throwback Thursday: Shadow and Bone

Meme hosted by Melissa My World in Words and Pages. It's about books that are already on the shelves and are waiting to be read. Go to her website to join in!

My submission:

Shadow and Bone
by Leigh Bardugo
Narrated by: Lauren Fortgang

The Shadow Fold, a swathe of impenetrable darkness, crawling with monsters that feast on human flesh, is slowly destroying the once-great nation of Ravka. 

Alina, a pale, lonely orphan, discovers a unique power that thrusts her into the lavish world of the kingdom’s magical elite—the Grisha. Could she be the key to unravelling the dark fabric of the Shadow Fold and setting Ravka free? 

The Darkling, a creature of seductive charm and terrifying power, leader of the Grisha. If Alina is to fulfill her destiny, she must discover how to unlock her gift and face up to her dangerous attraction to him. 

But what of Mal, Alina’s childhood best friend? As Alina contemplates her dazzling new future, why can’t she ever quite forget him? 

Glorious. Epic. Irresistible. Romance.

 I won this at the AudioGals website in a post with Lauren Fortgang! I was going to get one of the Elemental Assassin books (she narrates those) but I decided to try something different that I haven't read yet and have wanted to read. Can't wait!

The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender by Leslye Walton

Standalone
320p.
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Published: 3/25/14
Source: From publisher and NetGalley for review

Magical realism, lyrical prose, and the pain and passion of human love haunt this hypnotic generational saga. 

Foolish love appears to be the Roux family birthright, an ominous forecast for its most recent progeny, Ava Lavender. Ava—in all other ways a normal girl—is born with the wings of a bird. In a quest to understand her peculiar disposition and a growing desire to fit in with her peers, sixteen-year old Ava ventures into the wider world, ill-prepared for what she might discover and naïve to the twisted motives of others. Others like the pious Nathaniel Sorrows, who mistakes Ava for an angel and whose obsession with her grows until the night of the Summer Solstice celebration. That night, the skies open up, rain and feathers fill the air, and Ava’s quest and her family’s saga build to a devastating crescendo. First-time author Leslye Walton has constructed a layered and unforgettable mythology of what it means to be born with hearts that are tragically, exquisitely human.

My thoughts:
This book is magical realism, but it takes that magic a bit further. The prose can be seen as literal or metaphorical or really both together. The book starts with Lavender telling the story, but really goes back to her great grandmother where all the strange things start to happen. All the stories seem to flow around the theme of love and what fools humans are for that feeling. The biggest theme is when it isn't true love, the things we do to try to force it and make it true... and the consequences of that making. It does take some dark turns, but it ends in hope and true love.

This book probably won't be for everyone. The strangeness of the family and what is seen as magic come to life might put off some people. The prose also takes some time to tell the tale. Both of these things may delight or irritate you depending on what you take from the book. For me, it delighted me and gave me something different than I was used to in the telling. It goes much further in the magical realism than Sarah Addison Allen does but the unusual parts to it enchanted me instead of distanced me from the story. It really comes down to a matter of what you are drawn to in books.

I give this book 4 stars. It's lyrical, metaphorical, and quite unusual. It may not be for everyone, but I encourage those of you willing to try something different. I think you may enjoy yourself within the pages.

Author Guest Post and Giveaway: Marie Brennan and the Memoir of Lady Trent series

It would be an exaggeration to say that I can't imagine the Memoirs of Lady Trent without Todd Lockwood's sketches. I can imagine it; I just don't want to. Because the books simply would not be as cool.

When I decided to make Isabella an artist, I was thinking only of the effect it would have on the story, giving her a reason to participate in the Vystrani expedition. Getting Tor to include interior art was a long shot, since it increases the production costs; there's a reason you don't see that kind of thing in every book. But my editor not only agreed, he got behind the idea and ran with it. And the result, as readers can see, is absolutely awesome: it adds a layer of reality to the whole thing, and makes the books into beautiful objects in their own right.

Having the art has ultimately fed back into the story, too. Now when I write, I find myself considering what elements would make for good illustrations. I know I'll have to provide information for the artist, too, so I put much more effort into thinking about visual details than I usually would. How long is a particular kind of dragon? What is the precise layout of this scene? Even if I never specify those things in the text, I need to understand them so I can describe them to Todd. But at the same time, I don't want to dictate every last claw; he needs room to be creative, too. So my descriptions often say "do whatever you like with this aspect" -- and sometimes I end up revising the text to reflect what he's drawn.

I'm not an artist myself. I do a fair bit of amateur photography, but I'm not much good with a pencil or a paintbrush; I was never really taught to draw, and the gap between my ability and my critical eye is large enough that I wind up being very impatient with my failures. Having someone else bring my characters and world to life is a beautiful thing, and I'm more delighted than I can say to have it be such an integral part of this series.

Bio:

Marie Brennan is a former academic with a background in archaeology, anthropology, and folklore, which she now puts to rather cockeyed use in writing fantasy. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she spends her time practicing piano, studying karate, and playing a variety of role-playing games.

Bio from Marie's website: http://swantower.com/

The Tropic of Serpents
Series: Memoir of Lady Trent #2

The thrilling adventure of Lady Trent continues in Marie Brennan's The Tropic of Serpents... 

Attentive readers of Lady Trent’s earlier memoir, A Natural History of Dragons, are already familiar with how a bookish and determined young woman named Isabella first set out on the historic course that would one day lead her to becoming the world’s premier dragon naturalist. Now, in this remarkably candid second volume, Lady Trent looks back at the next stage of her illustrious (and occasionally scandalous) career. 

Three years after her fateful journeys through the forbidding mountains of Vystrana, Mrs. Camherst defies family and convention to embark on an expedition to the war-torn continent of Eriga, home of such exotic draconian species as the grass-dwelling snakes of the savannah, arboreal tree snakes, and, most elusive of all, the legendary swamp-wyrms of the tropics. 

The expedition is not an easy one. Accompanied by both an old associate and a runaway heiress, Isabella must brave oppressive heat, merciless fevers, palace intrigues, gossip, and other hazards in order to satisfy her boundless fascination with all things draconian, even if it means venturing deep into the forbidden jungle known as the Green Hell... where her courage, resourcefulness, and scientific curiosity will be tested as never before.

Some of Todd Lockwood's art from the previous book, A Natural History of Dragons (the first book and my review of that book is HERE) below:

Tor is allowing me to giveaway 3 HB cover books of The Tropic of Serpents... the newest in this series! It's open to anyone with a US/CAN snail mail addy. All you have to do is fill out the rafflecopter form below!

Good luck!!

Dawn's Early Light (Minstry of Peculiar Occurances #3) by Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris

Series: A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Novel #3
384p.
Published: 3/25/14
Publisher: Ace
Source: eARC from publisher for review

Working for the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences, one sees innumerable technological wonders. But even veteran agents Braun and Books are unprepared for what the electrifying future holds…

After being ignominiously shipped out of England following their participation in the Janus affair, Braun and Books are ready to prove their worth as agents. But what starts as a simple mission in the States—intended to keep them out of trouble—suddenly turns into a scandalous and convoluted case that has connections reaching as far as Her Majesty the Queen. 

Even with the help of two American agents from the Office of the Supernatural and the Metaphysical, Braun and Books have their work cut out for them as their chief suspect in a rash of nautical and aerial disasters is none other than Thomas Edison. Between the fantastic electric machines of Edison, the eccentricities of MoPO consultant Nikola Tesla, and the mysterious machinations of a new threat known only as the Maestro, they may find themselves in far worse danger than they ever have been in before…

My thoughts:
 Another great installment in this series. Only question... will we ever see Welly's face on the cover? I love those teases... :D

In this book our duo is shipped to the Americas finally getting some field work which ends up helping their American counterparts in taking down a notorious evil mastermind... Thomas Edison. Okay, well, he isn't completely evil, it's just good business to destroy any and all competition.

There are also many other elements at play here. There is a side mystery with the Prince, Her Majesty, and the notorious House of Usher (which we have seen in the other episodes/series) and a couple of assassins. The blurb has it right, it is quite convoluted indeed. While all these parts, which could become confusing if it went on for much longer, do come together in the end... there are still loose threads. Including one that will go on in the next chapter for our duo. We know they won't get a moment to just find out what is going on between them relationship wise. Still you know that Eliza will press the issue and Welly will try to dodge it, but we do have some answers regarding their relationship in this book.

I don't want to give away too much, but I was satisfied with the story and I really want the next one in my hot little hands now. I'm curious as to where the last thread leads and what personal developments we will have with Eliza and Welly. I give this book 4 stars and if you are looking for a good series with lots of steampunk gadgets, nods to iconic tv and movies, evil and good historical figures and some great interaction between characters, mystery and thrilling spy work do get this book! In fact this series is great in terms of steampunk and spy work. Get it!

Other books in the series:

Phoenix Rising (#1), The Janus Affair (#2)

Bloggy Note:

Last day to enter for some great prizes in this series. Go to the post HERE for deets. US/CAN only.

Before the Devil Knows You're Dead (Speak of the Devil #3) by Patricia Eimer

Series: Speak of the Devil #3
368p.
Available Now
Publisher: Entangled Edge
Source: From blog tour for review

Not Even Death Keeps a Good Demoness Down 

There’s never an end to the crazy when you’re demon spawn. Not that Faith Bettincourt’s complaining. She’s been patching things up with her angelic on-again off-again boyfriend, Matt, and her best-friend-turned-sister-in-law is soon giving birth to the Anti-Christ Part Deux. Oh, and Faith is saving kids from Death in her pediatric unit one soul at a time. Life is good. 

Until Faith accidentally runs over the Angel of Death and is forced to take his place. Now she’s taking lives instead of saving them. Which is kind of a problem when you’re a nurse. As if that weren’t bad enough, she is suddenly thrust into the worst scenario of them all--Matt’s ex Brenda is back, and she’s brought the Apocalypse with her. 

Faith’s not about to give up the world...or her man. But when the chips are down, what’s a demoness supposed to do? Besides take matters into her own hands, of course.

My thoughts:
I've enjoyed this series from book one. I love a good tongue in cheek kind of book and this one doesn't disappoint. The humor is good but there is also a UF element to the whole series. This is also a series I would read in order. The events in the other books lead up to what happens in this book. Yes, I repeat (and don't faint) I read these in order and I suggest you do the same. :D

The last book sort of killed me with the ending (in a good way) so I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. The angst isn't pulled out too long for us to find out what we want to know and before we can get too comfortable the Faith finds herself in a bind. Not too unusual for our gal, but this one could affect her loved ones as well... um.. okay, well, that isn't too unusual either... ;) Well, before they can find a solution for the first crisis... the Archangel Michael tricks Faith and starts the Apocalypse. Now that isn't as big of a jump as I just made it sound, but I didn't want to give too much away in what happens. *evil laugh* ☜ hey, totally appropriate here... :D

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. This one doesn't fell quite as tight as the other two, but still very enjoyable nonetheless. I hope there is more adventure in store for Faith and her celestial family. I would pick up another book in this series in a heartbeat (or wingbeat?).

Bloggy note: Book 1 and book 3 are currently $.99! Get them at your fave ebook store!

The Hungry Family Slow Cooker Cookbook Blog Tour

It's every busy mother's dream-come-true: dinner that makes itself! With the help of your trusty slow cooker and these healthy, easy recipes, like Peppery Cilantro Salmon, Sausage Stew, and Dark Chocolate Mini Cakes, you can put dinner on the table even on the craziest of days. Don't let the whirlwind of life stop you from feeding your family the food they deserve -- delicious, home-cooked meals straight from your slow cooker.

Bio (from Amazon):

Christina Dymock was once at a dinner party where her husband was teasing her about the frosting-to-cupcake ratio on her dessert. The woman sitting across from them sniffed her delicate nose and said, "If my husband gave me a hard time about my frosting I'd quit baking. That'd show him." To which Christina's husband replied while pointing at his speechless wife, "Try to stop her!"

Christina divides her time between the kitchen and her computer and books and her family of six. (Naturally, the family gets the biggest share.) Because she reads everything, she also feels compelled to write in several genres.

Christina is the author of The Hungry Family, Young Chefs, 101 Things to Do with Popcorn, and the Widow's Mite.

Bloggy note:

Unfortunately, AimeeKay who is going to review this book, did not receive the book in time for the review, but I know she is excited to get started and even make some of the great things in the book for her family! So... check out this book in the meantime and her review will be coming!

Notorious (Max Revere #1) by Allison Brennan

Series: Max Revere #1
 336p.
Published: 3/25/14
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Source: From NetGalley and publisher for review

Maxine Revere has dedicated her life to investigating murders that the police have long since given up any hope of solving. A nationally renowned investigative reporter with her own TV show and a tough-as-nails reputation, Max tackles cold cases from across the country and every walk of life. But the one unsolved murder that still haunts her is a case from her own past. 

When Max was a high school senior, one of her best friends was strangled and another, Kevin O’Neal, accused of the crime. To the disgrace of her wealthy family, Max stood by her friend, until she found out he lied about his alibi. Though his guilt was never proven, their relationship crumbled from the strain of too many secrets. 

Now Max is home for Kevin’s funeral—after years of drug abuse, he committed suicide. She’s finally prepared to come to terms with the loss of his friendship, but she’s not prepared for Kevin’s sister to stubbornly insist that he didn’t kill himself. Or for an elderly couple to accost her at the airport, begging her to look into another murder at Max’s old high school. Max is more interested in the cold case at her alma mater than in digging around Kevin’s troubled life, but she agrees to do both. As Max uncovers dark secrets, she finds herself caught in a complicated web of lies that hit far too close to home. And it’s becoming increasingly clear that someone will do whatever it takes to make sure the truth stays buried.

My thoughts:
 We follow Max, a famous reporter who specializes in handling cold cases and finding the truth. In this book we find Max coming to her hometown for a funeral of a friend. She is approached by two elderly people who want the case of their grandson solved which has recently gone cold. She can't ignore the pull of a mystery so she goes on a quest to solve the murder for the couple. While she is there, it seems as if everyone from her past is telling her not to involve herself in a high school friend's cold case. The case her recently deceased friend was accused, something that happened 13 years ago while they were in highschool. One that she had no intention on solving. While she investigates one murder, thoughts keep turning back to the murder of her friend until she decides to solve that one as well. She as well as others in the community have needed that closure for quite a while.

The twists in this book were certainly interesting. I thought the cases were connected, then I thought they weren't.... then I knew who did it, and then that fell through. Wait, was I right in the first place, or was it now one of the 3 or 4 other people I now suspect. Yes, this book kept me guessing until the end. It also involved another mysterious murder which seems to connect all three but yet hold it apart. Will it ever be solved?

I really enjoyed this mystery. At first, I thought I would have problems connecting with Max since she tends to hold everyone at arm's length. She holds people telling the truth in high esteem. She cannot handle anyone close to her who lies. It is a betrayal in her opinion. This close connection to the truth and feeling of betrayal drew me closer to Max rather than further away. It showed a vulnerability otherwise lacking in her character.

I give this book 4 stars. It's a fun mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. I haven't had that happen in quite a while. I recommend it for those that love a good murder mystery.

Tell Me Something Tuesday: One Genre or Many?

Tell Me Something Tuesday, a meme started by CambriaHebert, but now hosted on Rainy Day Ramblings. It is a chance to get to know your fellow bloggers by sharing fun stuff, discussions and more. Grab the question and post your answer on your blog and link up at Rainy Day Ramblings! Have fun!

This weeks question:

Do you stick predominately with one genre or do you read numerous genres?

Well, I think that is obvious. I read lots of things. In fact before I had my blog I used to love to get 3 different books in decidedly 3 different genres and read them at the same time. What was weird is that I would ALWAYS find a theme running through the books. Don't know why, but I could pick out a theme. Perhaps I'm just weird like that... :D

So what about you? Do you read in other genres or do you stick to the same one. Also, have you ever tried reading multi genre books at the same time? Did you find a theme running through them? 

Audio Review: Third Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson #3) by Darynda Jones

Series: Charley Davidson #3
Narrator: Lorelei King
9hrs. 51min
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Available Now
Source: TBR pile

Paranormal private eye. Grim reaper extraordinaire. Whatever. Charley Davidson is back in Darynda Jones' Third Grave Dead Ahead! And she’s drinking copious amounts of caffeine to stay awake because, every time she closes her eyes, she sees him: Reyes Farrow, the parthuman, part-supermodel son of Satan. Yes, she did imprison him for all eternity, but come on. How is she supposed to solve a missing persons case, deal with an ego-driven doctor, calm her curmudgeonly dad, and take on a motorcycle gang hellbent on murder when the devil’s son just won’t give up?

My thoughts:
I love this series on audio and I was excited to have won this one from the author's page. This is one of the few series I want to totally listen to exclusively on audio. Lorelei King's voice is my go to voice in my head for Charley and I can picture her so clearly in my head.

In this story Reyes has been bound and is haunting Charley every time she closes her eyes. Of course it isn't exactly unpleasant, but it doesn't nothing for serene rest. Still, it made me wonder why she wouldn't look forward to sleeping all the time instead of guzzling coffee to stay awake. I sometimes have to question her sanity. If I had dreams like that all the time, you'd call me sleeping beauty! ;) Anyhoo, in this story Charley gets a case which does need her attention and is hired by the guy she is sure "did it". She decides to do some digging which leads her to other curious insights. This case isn't as open and shut as she thought. Plus, Reyes has decided to come out of his silence with Charley and has her work on a case of his.

As with the other books things get much more complicated and dangerous then humanly possible. Good thing she isn't exactly human. Also, with the other books this one had me laughing more than once out loud. Good thing I wasn't in public when listening to the book. People would think I was off my nut... well, more than usual. ;) The ending has a lot of twists that I didn't expect and kept me guessing. I enjoyed the ending and especially with the addition of a certain new character that will help by being her guardian. Those that have already listened/read this book know who I'm talking about.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. I do recommend trying this one or any in the series on audio just once. I think you will find that like me, you will be addicted to it on audio.

Wendell Black, MD by Gerald Imber

Standalone
412p.
Publisher: Bourbon Street Books
Available Now
Source: From publisher for review

A New York City police surgeon finds himself in the middle of an international drug-smuggling ring--or is it an even more dangerous conspiracy? 

After a heart-thumping drop in altitude on a flight from London to New York, NYPD police surgeon Wendell Black is called on to try to save a woman who has gone into cardiac arrest. He's just carrying out his duty, but his aid places him at the center of an international drug-smuggling investigation. 

As Black, and his English girlfriend, Alice--a knockout beauty and a surgeon to boot--digs deeper into the activities of the drug ring, he begins to suspect that a number of British doctors are involved. And when one of Alice's colleagues is brutally murdered and Alice suddenly disappears, the NYPD starts looking to Black for answers. His search peels away rings of conspiracy that expose a shocking threat to the nation.

My thoughts:
This is a spy thriller novel set in contemporary times. It's set around Wendell Black a MD in the NYPD. He isn't thrilled with his life as he knows it, but it is comfortable and he has a beautiful cosmetic surgeon girlfriend. He is on a flight from London when turbulence hits and suddenly there is an on-board emergency. The patient is lost, but even though Wendell is perplexed as to why the healthy, young patient died, he goes on with life. When questions arise after the ME examines the body, one strange coincidence builds upon another and suddenly he finds himself in the middle of a drug ring. Still more questions arise as more odd coincidences transpire. It starts looking less like a drug smuggling problem and more like terrorism. Now will anyone believe him.

I think the twists and turns as well as the way the book slowly builds the suspense and mystery would have made a great book. I enjoyed Wendell's character, but found the secondary characters lacking. I think it made the more suspenseful parts of the book weaker. I really didn't enjoy Alice's character. Someone who is supposed to be a surgeon and a spy should know what she is doing. Should be at least strong in mind. When she plays second fiddle to Wendell who has no prior experience with espionage in terms of skill, I had a problem with it. There were times when she suddenly had to capitulate to Wendell's greater observational skills or deductive reasoning, I rolled my eyes a bit. I needed her to be much stronger and even lead HIM by the hand a bit to make the story plausible. However, I totally admit that this might only bother me and it may not bother others at all.

There were also another great secondary character, Duce, who is his best friend. Again I would have liked him fleshed out more which would have brought more to the story. Also, a bad guy, Rodriguez who is part of the DEA could also have used more flesh. He had more time in the book, but still read a bit more like a one dimensional bad guy. Perhaps if there was more reasoning earlier, more nuance as to why he was a jerk to Wendell, it would have amped up the danger surrounding Rodriguez.

I give this book between 2 1/2 and 3 stars. I split it that way because the book is very readable and I did enjoy the twists to the plot. Despite the flaws and I think men in particular would enjoy it since Wendell is easily identifiable.

Dawn's Early Light Blog Tour

Yes! This is a series I have enjoyed (a list of reviews and other fun stuff with the book) and those wanting to get into steampunk with a great mystery NEED to get this series. It is just so much fun. Love the characters to death! :)

A selection from Chapter Two

of Dawn’s Early Light by Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris

released by Ace Books

As they walked farther in, she noticed a slight girl seated at a table at the rear of the pub. It was not just her purple petticoats and stripes that made her stand out, but also her tidiness, etiquette, and carriage. Eliza hated stripes—though they were all the fashion. Their contact also had a pair of sun spectacles balanced on the tip of her nose. Eliza could only surmise that was her notion of blending in.

“I think we found our contact,” Eliza whispered to Wellington.

She made to walk to the table when the archivist caught her arm. “We are supposed to meet at the bar,” he hissed.

He wasn’t serious. Was he?

It’s like dealing with a child, Eliza thought, but she knew she had to pick and choose her battles. She forced a tight grin as she followed Wellington to the bar. He leaned against its weathered wood and motioned for the publican. The barkeep appeared, and his brow knotted as he looked the new arrivals over.

Eliza realised that they stood out nearly as much as the woman in purple.

“Sir, a whiskey, if you please,” Wellington ordered in a tone far too loud and purposeful.

“Welly,” Eliza whispered tersely, “perhaps you should just order a beer? Same effect.” She cast a wary glance at the woman who was trying, but failing, to blend in with her surroundings. So far she had pushed her sun spectacles up to the bridge of her nose, smoothed out her skirts, and then looked at the two of them, placing a hand upon her chest, as if noticing them for the first time.

Bloody hell, Eliza thought, burying her face in her hand. It’s Amateur Night at the Alhambra.

Through his clenched teeth, he replied, “All part of protocol. Just play along.” The shot glass was placed in front of him, which immediately went up in the air as Wellington toasted those assembled. “God save the Queen,” he proclaimed, “and God bless America.”

The amber dram disappeared from its glass, and Eliza crossed her arms in front of her as Wellington struggled for air. His free hand caught the bar as the other gripped the shot glass tightly. How, she marvelled, could this man have been such a master of deception during their time with the Phoenix Society and yet here be about as convincing as a street urchin running for a seat in Parliament?

“Not quite the quality you’re used to?” Eliza asked sweetly.

Wellington coughed in reply. At least he was still breathing—and standing.

The waif had now gathered up enough courage and was standing before them. She looked between Eliza and Wellington quickly and then leaned forward. “At midnight, the lion roars.”

Oh for God’s sake. Eliza found herself frozen in disgust.

“But at dawn,” her partner wheezed, his voice creeping back to its normal baritone, “the eagle’s cry will be heard.”

“Subtle,” Eliza stated wryly.

She thrust out a gloved hand, shaking theirs in an enthusiastic greeting. “Felicity Lovelace. Welcome to the United States of America. Would you care for something to drink?”

“Another whiskey, Wellington?” Eliza asked with a sly grin.

“I think not,” he answered quickly. “Perhaps something less . . .”

“Potent?”

“Volatile.”

“I’ve read your particulars, Miss Braun,” Felicity returned quickly, and then spoke in what sounded like a baited breath. “A white wine for the gentleman, a beer for the lady, and I’ll have another . . .” She paused. “Well, I’ll have another.”

“Right then,” the barkeep said, looking at the three of them. “Wine, beer.” And his eyes twinkled a bit as he said, “And a Coca-Cola.”

Eliza and Wellington looked at Felicity askance. “It helps calm my nerves,” she said with a shrug, her speech getting a little faster the more she spoke.

Calm her nerves? Then it dawned on her when the beer reached her hands. Ye gods, you must be joking. “This is your first assignment, isn’t it?”

“No, actually, this is my tenth,” the American returned, but the tremble in her posture hardly reassured Eliza. When the woman’s bubbling tonic arrived, she took a long sip from it before adding, “I’m not necessarily in the field is all. I’m usually working on logistics, but this time the director agreed to let me accompany my partner.”

“I see.” Eliza smiled, nodding slowly. “Doctor Sound did say we were working with our counterparts. You’re the archivist then?”

“Librarian,” Felicity corrected.

“There’s a difference,” Wellington contributed, “if you’d care—”

Eliza’s eyebrows raised slightly, and he stopped mid-sentence. He was learning. “So,” the New Zealander continued sweetly, “why exactly have you reached out to the British Empire for help, Miss Lovelace?”

“Please, call me Felicity—everyone does.”

Eliza raised her beer at her. “Eliza.” She motioned to Wellington. “Welly.”

Dawn's Early Light
Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences #3

Working for the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences, one sees innumerable technological wonders. But even veteran agents Braun and Books are unprepared for what the electrifying future holds…

After being ignominiously shipped out of England following their participation in the Janus affair, Braun and Books are ready to prove their worth as agents. But what starts as a simple mission in the States—intended to keep them out of trouble—suddenly turns into a scandalous and convoluted case that has connections reaching as far as Her Majesty the Queen. 

Even with the help of two American agents from the Office of the Supernatural and the Metaphysical, Braun and Books have their work cut out for them as their chief suspect in a rash of nautical and aerial disasters is none other than Thomas Edison. Between the fantastic electric machines of Edison, the eccentricities of MoPO consultant Nikola Tesla, and the mysterious machinations of a new threat known only as the Maestro, they may find themselves in far worse danger than they ever have been in before

Book Links:

Goodreads

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Book Order for the Order:

1. Phoenix Rising

2. The Janus Affair

3. Dawn's Early Light

The others are mini stories and they also have a lot of podcast mini stories for their adventures as well! 

 Bio:

Photo by J.R. Blackwell.

New Zealand born fantasy writer and podcaster Philippa (Pip) Ballantine is the author of the Books of the Order and the Shifted World series. She is also the co-author, with her husband Tee Morris, of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences novels. Her awards include an Airship, a Parsec, and a Sir Julius Vogel. Morris is the author of Morevi: The Chronicles of Rafe and Askana and the co-author of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences novels. In addition to his work as a fantasist, he is also a social media pioneer and the author of Podcasting for Dummies and All a Twitter.

Pip's website: www.pjballantine.com
Pip's Twitter: philippajane

Tee's website: http://teemorris.com/
Tee's Twitter: https://twitter.com/TeeMonster

The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TheMinistryOfPeculiarOccurrences

Giveaway!

Open to both U.S. and Canadian readers and sponsored by the tour. 

PRIZE ONE
Three paperback set (signed) of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences
Signed Abney Park Poster
Signed Abney Park CD Ancient World
Signed coverflats of Phoenix Rising and the Janus Affair

PRIZE TWO
Three paperback set (signed) of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences
The Extraordinary Contraptions CD
Signed cover flat of Phoenix Rising

PRIZE THREE
Three paperback set (signed) of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences

Just fill out the rafflecopter form below:

The Winner's Curse (The Winner's Trilogy #1) by Marie Rutkoski

Series: The Winner's Trilogy
355p.
Available Now
Publisher: Farrar Straus Giroux
Source: ARC from publisher for review

Winning what you want may cost you everything you love

As a general’s daughter in a vast empire that revels in war and enslaves those it conquers, seventeen-year-old Kestrel has two choices: she can join the military or get married. But Kestrel has other intentions.

One day, she is startled to find a kindred spirit in a young slave up for auction. Arin’s eyes seem to defy everything and everyone. Following her instinct, Kestrel buys him—with unexpected consequences. It’s not long before she has to hide her growing love for Arin.

But he, too, has a secret, and Kestrel quickly learns that the price she paid for a fellow human is much higher than she ever could have imagined.

Set in a richly imagined new world, The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a story of deadly games where everything is at stake, and the gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart.

My thoughts:
The story follows two characters from completely different backgrounds. One, Kestrel, is from a conquering nation who has enslaved the people where she resides. The other is Arin who is a member of the enslaved. An impossible romance develops and one where I couldn't see working, but wanted it to work so badly throughout the story. You just want to know if a love with people of unequal status could eventually fall in love.

You are drawn into the story from the start through Kestrel and it doesn't let up for one second. You also fall for her closest friends despite the fact they feel justified in keeping and having slaves. Arin is captivating in his terse and oppositional personality. He is strong and handsome, but you know more lurks underneath his angry demeanor. Kestrel slowly brings him out and lowers his defenses. Through lies, deception, and a lot of truth telling the couple comes together only to be torn apart once more. The ending will leave you clamoring for more.

I don't want to say too much for fear of spoiling the story. I want you to experience it for yourself. It is an experience of impossible dreams and wants and it is successful in it's telling. My only complaint was the end. Yes, it ended! How dare it! The ending might kill you, but you just know it will be worth the wait for the next book. I give the book 4 1/2 stars and recommend it to those that enjoy romance.

Play Bite and Sting

The Winner's Curse Website

Tell Me Something Tuesday: Rainy Day Projects

Tell Me Something Tuesday, a meme started by CambriaHebert, but now hosted on Rainy Day Ramblings. It is a chance to get to know your fellow bloggers by sharing fun stuff, discussions and more. Grab the question and post your answer on your blog and link up at Rainy Day Ramblings! Have fun!

This weeks question:

What do you spend your fun, rainy day money on besides books?

Is there something besides books? LOL

No, actually I do have other things. One is usually crafts. I love to craft. And for what I do depends on what I want to do... It might be simple sewing stuff, crochet, craft painting, jewelry or just something I want to see if I can replicate. I just love anything creative. 

Some of my fave websites:

Sewing

Sew 4 Home

Sew Momma Sew

Crochet

Ravelry

Craftster

I was going to list more, but honestly the rest are all over the place. Those are the only consistent places I visit to figure out what I want to do in that category. Now go and find inspiration everywhere! :)

Boy, Snow, Bird by Helen Oyeyemi

Standalone
320p.
Available Now
Publisher: Riverhead
Source: Goodreads First Reads program and the publisher for review

From the prizewinning author of Mr. Fox, the Snow White fairy tale brilliantly recast as a story of family secrets, race, beauty, and vanity. 

In the winter of 1953, Boy Novak arrives by chance in a small town in Massachusetts, looking, she believes, for beauty—the opposite of the life she’s left behind in New York. She marries a local widower and becomes stepmother to his winsome daughter, Snow Whitman. 

A wicked stepmother is a creature Boy never imagined she’d become, but elements of the familiar tale of aesthetic obsession begin to play themselves out when the birth of Boy’s daughter, Bird, who is dark-skinned, exposes the Whitmans as light-skinned African Americans passing for white. Among them, Boy, Snow, and Bird confront the tyranny of the mirror to ask how much power surfaces really hold. 

Dazzlingly inventive and powerfully moving, Boy, Snow, Bird is an astonishing and enchanting novel. With breathtaking feats of imagination, Helen Oyeyemi confirms her place as one of the most original and dynamic literary voices of our time.

My thoughts:
Although I labeled this as a retelling and it is admittedly connected to the tale of Snow White, I would actually call this one inspired by instead. With this knowledge of the tale that inspired this book, you can see how she wove elements into the book to tell the tale of the three characters of Boy, Snow and Bird. Not all the elements are clear. There is no obviously recognizable evil stepmother/witch but elements woven throughout several characters. The mirror is there, but it is not magical but metaphorical to all three main characters. Snow white is obviously Snow, but yet, you can also see those elements also woven through those same 3 main characters throughout time. The time is also set in the 40s-60s in America.

The book is separated into 3 parts. The first part you follow Boy who is a girl living with an abusive father. This part is also written in a way that made me feel like Boy had a bit of ADHD. The parts seem to skip all over the place, but I felt it was purposeful to get a feel for the character. Oh and yes, her name is Boy. Despite all the skipping around, the background of the abusive father and even Boy is murky, but she isn't interested in her background, only surviving the abuse. Boy runs away to make a new life for herself and finds a place in a artistic and tight knit community. She meets a man and decides to marry him mostly because of his beautiful little girl named Snow. Boy seems to fall under her spell. As time goes on, Boy becomes pregnant and sends Snow away when she learns her daughter is black. The family she lives with have been passing for white but Boy is not racist and loves her daughter from the start. It isn't clear why she sends Snow away, but depending on how you see Boy you feel she was either protecting her daughter or jealous of Snow. Yes, you can see elements of Snow White already unfolding within the story.

The second part of the book we follow Bird who is the daughter of Boy. This part read much smoother to me but it still felt as if there were constant run on sentences. There wasn't but the feel of constant chatter was there. I also felt this part was purposeful to get the feel of the character. In this part we see how Boy nurtured Bird, but yet Bird still felt like she was missing love since it was never spoken aloud. Boy never said love to her, but her actions did tell Bird that she was loved and cherished. However, for a little girl, it could be hard to figure out. This part also had the coming together of estranged sisters and how all the characters dealt with racism. The mirror played an even more philosophical part in this section of the book.

The third part was the smallest and we are back with Boy as our narrator. Twists are introduced here and the coming together of all three main characters are solidified. The ending is satisfying and complete. Even if you wonder how everything planned out throughout their lives, you can leave them knowing that they are all well.

I know I gave away more of the book than I usually do in my reviews. With this book, it is really about the writing and the messages the author wants to impart. I think she was successful in some ways and not quite there in others. I didn't always feel connected to Boy except through Bird. I need that connection. So, I give this book 3 stars. I did find it interesting and so different than a lot of books I've been reading. I recommend it to those that are wanting something a bit out there and something that might connect you to the feeling of what racism can do within a family. That alone makes this book worth reading.

While Beauty Slept by Elizabeth Blackwell

Standalone
432p.
Publisher: Amy Einhorn Books/Putnam
Published: Available Now
Source: From NetGalley and publisher for review

A beautiful princess lies in a sleep so deep it is close to death. Was Sleeping Beauty revived by a prince's kiss? What really happened in that tower so long ago?

While Beauty Slept re-imagines the legend through the lens of historical fiction, telling the story as if it really happened. A Gothic tale of suspense and ambition, love and loss, it interweaves the story of a royal family and the servants who see behind the glamorous facade, following the journey of a young woman as she lives out a destiny that leads her to the brink of death.

My thoughts:
This is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty (the Disney version). However, this is a bit different than the retellings we are used to getting. Usually there is a mix of what kind of magic or in a different magical place, however, this retelling is a "what if" kind. What if there was a real historical story behind Sleeping Beauty? What if all the magic is taken out of it and was substituted with real life historical problems?

We see this story through the eyes of Elise a girl who was raised on a farm but later went to the castle to make her own fortune. We follow her trials and her growth into a powerful woman. She was favored by the queen and in her journey became a lady in waiting. We also see everything about the royals through her eyes. The witch, who did seem to have magical powers-- but was really the power of suggestion and ambition mixed with a bit of insanity-- was really the king's own sister denied the throne because she was a woman. There was a curse and a bid for power, but it all happened within the confines of a historical setting.

There are times in which we would be brought out of the story by Elsie to remind us that it is a recollection. This was strategically done to amp up our anxiety at the outcome. The reminding is made to keep you at the edge of your seat waiting for the final battle you know would be gruesome and harsh. The final battle did not disappoint.

There is a twist at the end and one I enjoyed. It isn't completely a wondrous HEA, but one that satisfies and makes sense. I recommend this book to those that love historical fiction or retellings. For those that don't typically like retellings, this one might be the one to try since it is set more as historical fiction. I give the book 4 stars.

Throwback Thursday: The Resurrectionist

Meme hosted by Melissa My World in Words and Pages. It's about books that are already on the shelves and are waiting to be read. Go to her website to join in!

My submission:

The Resurrectionist: The Lost Work of Dr. Spencer Black
by E.B. Hudspeth

Philadelphia, the late 1870s. A city of gas lamps, cobblestone streets, and horse-drawn carriages—and home to the controversial surgeon Dr. Spencer Black. The son of a grave robber, young Dr. Black studies at Philadelphia’s esteemed Academy of Medicine, where he develops an unconventional hypothesis: What if the world’s most celebrated mythological beasts—mermaids, minotaurs, and satyrs—were in fact the evolutionary ancestors of humankind?

The Resurrectionist offers two extraordinary books in one. The first is a fictional biography of Dr. Spencer Black, from a childhood spent exhuming corpses through his medical training, his travels with carnivals, and the mysterious disappearance at the end of his life. The second book is Black’s magnum opus: The Codex Extinct Animalia, a Gray’s Anatomy for mythological beasts—dragons, centaurs, Pegasus, Cerberus—all rendered in meticulously detailed anatomical illustrations. You need only look at these images to realize they are the work of a madman. The Resurrectionist tells his story.

I won this one and I admit, I'm more curious about the drawings than the story.

Any good illustrated books on your tbr? 

Clipped Wings by Helena Hunting

Series: Clipped Wings #1
400p.
Published: March 4, 2014
Publisher: Gallery Books
Source: Edelweiss and publisher for review

An emotional love story that follows the touch-and-go relationship of Hayden and Tenley; two young people who desperately want to love and be loved but are afraid to completely let go of their pasts. 

As Hayden and Tenley navigate their newfound but slightly unstable relationship, they want to trust each other, but Hayden is hiding a dark and shameful past that he doesn't ever want Tenley to find out about. And Tenley has secrets of her own that could make Hayden run away forever. When Tenley asks Hayden to put a beautifully elaborate tattoo across her back, the two form what they thought was an unshakeable bond. But when Tenley's past shows up on her doorstep, will Hayden stand by her side...or run?

My thoughts:
Oh a contemporary romance! I don't often read these, but it has an element I usually gravitate toward.... creativity! The creative elements in this story is tattooing and drawing. Something artsy is usually an element that will draw me in.

This is a story about Hayden and Tenley. Both have been through horrific experiences that have clouded the way they see themselves. Tenley's is much fresher than Hayden's experience, but both have been hurting in some way. Both don't want to reveal themselves to the other in fear that the information will alter the other's perspective. Within the grip of what they have it helps loosen up their resolve and small parts of their horror present themselves to each other. Not always on their time table or in the time of their choosing. Yes, there is angst and drama, but it doesn't feel too drawn out into becoming annoying.

I did have a few red flags when it came to Hayden's behavior. He was quick to anger. It was uncontrollable at times and even Hayden was surprised at the level and swiftness. He also had problems with not being able to control his environment. He expressed it mostly in hating clutter, but it also seemed to leak onto other people. So someone who hates a lack of control and is quick to anger... not to  mention a unhealthy dose of obsession... in the real world could spell trouble. However, in the fictitious world, everything is fine and he just needs to calm down.

So other than the red flag, I was curious as to how these two would eventually come together and all would be right in the world. I was also interested in the length of the book in getting there. It wasn't bad, but I kept being surprised we wouldn't get to certain parts until later. This helped to not give it an insta-love vibe, but I also thought it could have been paired down and edited a bit to really get the book being tight. Still, it did keep my interest.

So, I was reading away when...

Yep, pretty much how I felt. The book didn't just stop at a cliffie... it threw you off that cliff and you didn't even know it. I even thought my ereader got stuck and didn't get the last pages. I had to check to see to make sure I didn't get a bad copy or something. That almost made me give this book a 1 star. I really REALLY hate that. Not only that, I didn't really see the story into being more than a standalone. However, I'll be kind and rate the rest of the book. So, I give this book 2 stars. I recommend it to those that love two broken people coming together but I warn you that you aren't missing the rest of the book... it's just not there.

Top Off Tuesday: A Most Devilish Rogue

"Every once in awhile there are covers that just make you say Oh My! Sometimes it is good, sometimes it is bad, and sometimes it is head scratching. The point of Top Off Tuesday is to show you the ones with their Tops Off! Seriously y’all hunting out Top Off Tuesday covers is one of my favorite pastimes and you should join the fun!" ~from the Geeky Blogger

I have been enjoying this meme on Felicia's The Geeky Blogger's blog and have finally found some time to join in. The other players are Amanda from On a Book Bender, Christi from Smitten with Reading. Button made by Missie at The Unread Reader

My submission:

A Most Devilish Rogue
by Ashlyn Macnamara
384p.
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Available Now

Fans who adore Julia Quinn, Eloisa James, and Sabrina Jeffries will savor Ashlyn Macnamara’s sensual new novel, which proves that two hearts are better than one. 

Years ago, when Isabelle Mears was still a young miss too infatuated to know better, she surrendered her innocence to a dishonorable man. Though ruined and cast out from society, she has worked hard to shelter her illegitimate son, Jack. Having sworn off men in her quiet but dignified life, Isabelle is unprepared for the deep longing that rips through her when a handsome stranger rescues her rambunctious six-year-old from the pounding ocean surf. 

George Upperton is a man in trouble with debts, women, and a meddling family. He is, by all accounts, the last gentleman on earth Isabelle should be drawn to. But loneliness is a hard mistress, and caution gives way to desire . . . even though Isabelle is convinced that happiness can’t be found in the arms of such a devilish rogue. Only when Jack is kidnapped does Isabelle discover the true depth of George’s devotion—and how far a good man will go to fight for the woman whose love is all that matters.

Okay, sorry Felicia... no nips, but (heh) still thought this would work in a ToT post. ;)

So any bad title placed books you have for your ToT?  :)

Before the Devil Knows You're Dead Blog Tour

Before the Devil Knows You're Dead

Author: Patricia Eimer

Series: Speak of the Devil #3
EBook: 368 pages
Release Date: February 24, 2014
ISBN: 978-1622661183
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Not Even Death Keeps a Good Demoness Down 

There’s never an end to the crazy when you’re demon spawn. Not that Faith Bettincourt’s complaining. She’s been patching things up with her angelic on-again off-again boyfriend, Matt, and her best-friend-turned-sister-in-law is soon giving birth to the Anti-Christ Part Deux. Oh, and Faith is saving kids from Death in her pediatric unit one soul at a time. Life is good. 

Until Faith accidentally runs over the Angel of Death and is forced to take his place. Now she’s taking lives instead of saving them. Which is kind of a problem when you’re a nurse. As if that weren’t bad enough, she is suddenly thrust into the worst scenario of them all--Matt’s ex Brenda is back, and she’s brought the Apocalypse with her. 

Faith’s not about to give up the world...or her man. But when the chips are down, what’s a demoness supposed to do? Besides take matters into her own hands, of course.

Excerpt 3

“Why won’t you let us be together?” Matt asked.

“Why? Because I’m a demon and you’re the Supreme Leader of the Angale. Any sane person would know that means there is a huge line dividing us and we can’t breach it. That hallway up there is our version of the Berlin Wall. Why can’t you see it?”

“Because I’m in love with you.” He grabbed my face, pulling me close. He pressed his lips against mine and the entire world fell away, letting me get lost in the feel of home. He wrapped his arms around my back and pulled me into his lap.

“Don’t do this to us,” he said against my mouth and my resolve began to crumble. “Don’t ruin what we are because you’re afraid. Trust me. I won’t let you get hurt.”

“I can’t,” I said before he kissed me again, silencing my protests. I wanted to. Alpha protect me from harm I wanted to make it work between us. I wanted to be in love and maybe get married and I wanted to be the one annoying Lisa with what it was like to have morning sickness, which terrified me more than everything else combined. I wanted all those things that mortal women my age wanted and I couldn’t have them. I wasn’t stupid. I knew what happened when someone like me tried to overreach. People ended up dead or suffering or trapped in a life they never intended.

“Yes you can.” He pulled my face down, kissing my eyelids and running his fingers over the contours of my cheeks. “You can trust me with everything, Faith. I won’t let you get hurt. Believe in me.” I did believe in him. That was the problem. I believed in how good he could be. I knew he wouldn’t hurt me. The problem was, I knew what I was. What I could do and how it would destroy him one day.

About Patricia:

Patricia Eimer is a small-town girl fated to be a storyteller. After a stint of "thinking practically," she earned degrees in Business and Economics, but her passion has always been a good book. She lives in Pittsburgh with her two kids and a husband who learned the art of frozen pizza to give her more time to write. When she’s not writing she can be found fencing or arguing with her dogs about plot points. Most days the beagle wins, but the dalmatian is a close second. She’s a distant third.

Website /Twitter/Facebook/Goodreads

Bargain!

Book 1 LUCK OF THE 

DEVIL and book 3 BEFORE THE DEVIL KNOWS YOU'RE DEAD are 99 cents for a 

limited time on all eBook platforms!

Giveaway!

Giveaway Details:

5 bundles of an ebook copy of Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead with any other Entangled ebook released at the same time -- Covet, Suspense, etc. To enter just fill out the rafflecopter form below. Also, since they are ebooks, the giveaway is international! The giveaway is sponsored by the tour.