Audiobook Review: Tempest Rising by Nicole Peeler

Series: Jane True #1
Unabridged
Publisher: Brilliance audio
Published: 11/20/10
Narrator: Kate Reinders
Length: 9 hrs. 47 min.
Source: Owned

During her nightly, clandestine swim in the freezing winter ocean, a grisly find leads Jane to startling revelations about her heritage: she is only half-human. 

Now, Jane must enter a world filled with supernatural creatures that are terrifying, beautiful, and deadly all of which perfectly describe her new friend, Ryu, a gorgeous and powerful vampire. 

It is a world where nothing can be taken for granted: a dog can heal with a lick; spirits bag your groceries; and whatever you do, never ever rub the genie s lamp.

My thoughts:

I have had this one for a while now but never got into it. I have been wanting to bring down my tbr and I was glad I had. I love a good mermaid tale and while she was a selkie (close enough) it still ended up being a fun PNR/UF romp.

While I did really like Jane, sometimes I felt she might have been too naive for what she is going through but I also know that in a UF the protagonist who is clueless at first really has some growing to do and as long as that happens I don't mind in the least. I really do like this author so I have no worries on that front. I think the biggest problem I had with the book is that I didn't have access to the next right away to see if that growth starts to occur at even a faster rate. Interlibrary loan here I come! LOL

The romance was cute and hot but I am still uncertain about Ryu. I think he is a good guy and I hope that I am right. Right now I'm rooting for another but I'm happy to take him if Jane doesn't want him. ;)

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I reall loved Kate's narration and she voiced all the characters well. I hope she does the rest of the series as I do think I want to audiobook the whole series.

🐟 

Audiobook Review: The Others #3, #4

Vision in Silver
Series: The Others #3
Narrator: Alexandra Harris
Unabridged
16 hrs.
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Published: March 3, 2015
Source: Library
Speed Listened: 1.5

The Others freed the cassandra sangue to protect the blood prophets from exploitation, not realizing their actions would have dire consequences. Now the fragile seers are in greater danger than ever before—both from their own weaknesses and from those who seek to control their divinations for wicked purposes. In desperate need of answers, Simon Wolfgard, a shape-shifter leader among the Others, has no choice but to enlist blood prophet Meg Corbyn’s help, regardless of the risks she faces by aiding him. 

Meg is still deep in the throes of her addiction to the euphoria she feels when she cuts and speaks prophecy. She knows each slice of her blade tempts death. But Others and humans alike need answers, and her visions may be Simon’s only hope of ending the conflict. 

For the shadows of war are deepening across the Atlantik, and the prejudice of a fanatic faction is threatening to bring the battle right to Meg and Simon’s doorstep…

My thoughts:

A series I love and needed to catch up on... and if you haven't tried it yet, you really need to start. I do recommend audio as I have loved the whole series so far on audio. Alexandra Harris does an excellent job and voices all the characters well.

This series has captivated me and the world building is spectacular and a bit familiar. The political aspect is very relevant to what is happening today. It really got me thinking about what challenges we are facing due to human devastation. Of course, in this world, there is a consequence that even the Others fear. We start to get a hint what can come if things don't start to change.

The relationships in the book are as good as the previous series and I love how everyone in the courtyard knows how Simon and Meg feel about each other even if they haven't realized it yet.

Just read the series, but do start with book 1. This is a series that needs to be read in order.

Marked in Flesh
Series: The Others #4
Narrator: Alexandra Harris
Unabridged
15 hrs. 21 min.
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Published: March 6, 2016
Source: Library
Speed Listened: 1.5

Since the Others allied themselves with the cassandra sangue, the fragile yet powerful human blood prophets who were being exploited by their own kind, the delicate dynamic between humans and Others changed. Some, like Simon Wolfgard, wolf shifter and leader of the Lakeside Courtyard, and blood prophet Meg Corbyn, see the new, closer companionship as beneficial—both personally and practically.

But not everyone is convinced. A group of radical humans is seeking to usurp land through a series of violent attacks on the Others. What they don’t realize is that there are older and more dangerous forces than shifters and vampires protecting the land that belongs to the Others—and those forces are willing to do whatever is necessary to protect what is theirs…

My thoughts:

I had to immediately start the next book as I really enjoyed my time in this world. Events that accumulated in the last book ramp up in this one and there is a conclusion to what everyone feared. However, this is not the end of the series and many questions as to the consequences of what happened will have to be explored. I also love how Meg has grown and how she is desperately trying to find a way to help all of the cassandra sangue. I also love how we get even more glimpses into other humans who aren't hell-bent on destroying everything in their path. This is another great addition to the series. You will also love the end of this one if you are wanting more romance... just sayin'...

My biggest complaint? The library didn't have the next one on audio! :'( I guess interlibrary loan will be the next thing I do as I want to finish the series on audio!

🐺

Spectacle by Rachel Vincent

Series: Menagerie #2
432 p.
Publisher: Harlequin MIRA
Published: 5/30/17
Source: From NetGalley and Publisher for review.

In this riveting sequel to New York Times bestselling author Rachel Vincent's acclaimed novel Menagerie, Delilah Marlow will discover that there is no crueler cage than the confines of the human mind… 

When their coup of Metzger's Menagerie is discovered, Delilah and her fellow cryptids find their newly won freedom brutally stripped away as they are sold into The Savage Spectacle, a private collection of "exotic wildlife." Specializing in ruthless cryptid cage matches, safari-style creature hunts and living party favors, the Spectacle's owner, Willem Vandekamp, caters to the forbidden fetishes of the wealthy and powerful. At the Spectacle, any wish can be granted—for the right price.

But Vandekamp's closely guarded client list isn't the only secret being kept at the Spectacle. Beneath the beauty and brutality of life in the collection lie much darker truths, and no one is more determined than Delilah to strip the masks from the human monsters and drag all dark things into the light.

My thoughts:

I loved the first book which honestly caught me by surprise. I had high hopes for this one and I was not disappointed. Those worrying about sophomore syndrome need not worry. While our intrepid cryptids find themselves in similar but in some ways more dangerous circumstances, one which none is expected to survive, we find ourselves once again captured (in a good way) by the story and how it all plays out. There is no cliffhanger but there is a huge open ending which will make you salivate for more of the tale. I, for one, cannot wait to read the next book in this series, *grabby hands*, even though it may not be written yet. Yes, you can safely say I really loved this book.

My only niggle would be with Delilah herself. While I feel that she has placed the bulk of the responsibilities on keeping the other cryptids alive, I also feel that she should share in that responsibility. They have as much or more at stake and it is also a bit of an insult to think that they are not capable of the task of at least helping her out as an equal. That is where I felt she sort of resembled her captors, but I do think she made strides in that area a tiny bit. Still, it is a minor niggle.

I do not want to tell too much or I'll spoil the book (or even the one that came before) but I will say this: I feel you need to pay attention to the prologue in the book. I have a feeling it will play an important role in the coming books and not just this story.

In conclusion, I feel that this series needs to be read in order. It makes sense and this one builds on the first book. You get fully introduced to Delilah who is our protagonist and why she is important to the menagerie. I give this book 4 1/2 stars. I highly recommend this series to those that love a good fantasy.

🎪

Audiobook Review: Murder of Crows by Anne Bishop

Series: The Others #2
Narrator: Alexandra Harris
14 hrs. 13 min.
Unabridged
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Published: 3/4/14
Source: Library

After winning the trust of the terra indigene residing in the Lakeside Courtyard, Meg Corbyn has had trouble figuring out what it means to live among them. As a human, Meg should be barely tolerated prey, but her abilities as a cassandra sangue make her something more.

The appearance of two addictive drugs has sparked violence between the humans and the Others, resulting in the murder of both species in nearby cities. So when Meg has a dream about blood and black feathers in the snow, Simon Wolfgard - Lakeside’s shape-shifting leader - wonders if their blood prophet dreamed of a past attack or a future threat.

As the urge to speak prophecies strikes Meg more frequently, trouble finds its way inside the Courtyard. Now, the Others and the handful of humans residing there must work together to stop the man bent on reclaiming their blood prophet - and stop the danger that threatens to destroy them all.

My thoughts:

In some ways I had a hard time getting through this story. It wasn't the story's fault at all, but I kept hearing "Humans First" group causing the feel of racism and prejudice and I couldn't help see the parallels in today's world problems. However, it is also quite different and that is what pulled me through the story and had me fading from the problems of the world a bit.

There was also a horrifying aspect of the Cassandra Sangue in how they were treated and how they were used. This brought a source of tension and realization of what Meg survived and what she was able to accomplish. It also makes Meg and her kind a sort of bridge between the humans and the Others but also outside of it all. I really like how Meg manages to hold that delicate line which would only be possible with an accepting group. This also means that Simon and the Lakeside Courtyard unique because of their acceptance. We see in this book how that isn't so easily accomplished, but it is possible.

Alexandria Harris is the narrator for the series and I really enjoyed her version of all the characters in the book. She really helps put you into the world and I also loved her wolfish and crow vocalizations. She makes this series fun. I do hope you at least try one book on audio in this series.

I give this book 4 stars. It is another good book in Meg's journey and it also does a good job at foreshadowing not only a possible romance but also what Meg may be up against in the future. I highly recommend this series and I do suggest to read them in order.

🐦

Audiobook Review: Magic Rises by Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #6
Narrator: Reneé Raudman
Unabridged
15 hrs. 6 min.
Publisher: Recorded Books
Published: July 30, 13
Source: Library

Atlanta is a city plagued by magical problems. Kate Daniels will fight to solve them—no matter the cost. 

Mercenary Kate Daniels and her mate, Curran, the Beast Lord, are struggling to solve a heartbreaking crisis. Unable to control their beasts, many of the Pack’s shapeshifting children fail to survive to adulthood. While there is a medicine that can help, the secret to its making is closely guarded by the European packs, and there’s little available in Atlanta. 

Kate can’t bear to watch innocents suffer, but the solution she and Curran have found threatens to be even more painful. The European shapeshifters who once outmaneuvered the Beast Lord have asked him to arbitrate a dispute—and they’ll pay him in medicine. With the young people’s survival and the Pack’s future at stake, Kate and Curran know they must accept the offer—but they have little doubt that they’re heading straight into a trap…

My thoughts:

THANK YOU LIBRARY! They got this one in on CD and I immediately started listening to it. I guess bugging them forever pays off. LOL I swear I'm addicted to this series. This was no exception and Reneé Raudman's narration is spot on as ever. I swear as long as she is narrating I will want to listen to this series. She made 15 hrs fly by in no time at all!

I love that in this one it is all about pack and who belongs in it. Not everyone is shifter nor are they the same kind of shifter to belong to Kate and Curran's pack. I think that is why I love this series so much. There is diversity even though there is a lean toward the same even in this world. This one gave me all the feels and I even wanted to smack Curran for his part in hurting Kate. Oh Kate did hurt, but luckily it was mostly physical... although the emotional ones were pretty hard to take. I did forgive Curran (appropriate groveling on his part LOL) but there was one emotional scene that just about killed me. It was a NOOooooOOOOO! moment and I'm still upset about it. It is an appropriate and intentioned upset... but I want to go back and change that one thing. No, I'm not telling and you will have to experience that part for yourself. 

The only niggle I would have in this story was Hugh D’Ambray. I did like having his character in this one and how he is the closest mirror to Kate's skill. However, not everything here worked for me. I wasn't sure how to take a couple of things and I hesitate to state them because it would be spoilery in nature. However, I will say they are minor niggles and do not detract from the story as a whole for me. 

I give this audiobook 4 1/2 stars. Again, it is masterfully narrated and I highly recommend this series (read it in order!) to anyone who enjoys UF. In fact, this series should be a must read for those that enjoy UF. :D

Alternative PB cover which I think is so much better. :D

Beauty and the Clockwork Beast by Nancy Campbell Allen

First in series
352 p.
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Published: 8/2/16
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

Jane Eyre meets Beauty and the Beast.

When Lucy Pickett arrives at Blackwell Manor to tend to her ailing cousin, Kate, she finds more than she bargained for. A restless ghost roams the hallways, werewolves have been reported in the area, and vampires lurk across the Scottish border. Lord Miles himself is clearly hiding a secret. He is brash and inhospitable, and does not take kindly to visitors—even one as smart and attractive as Miss Pickett. He is unsettled by the mysterious deaths of his new wife, Clara, and his sister, Marie. Working together, Miles and Lucy attempt to restore peace to Blackwell Manor. But can Lucy solve the mystery of Miles? Can she love the man—beast and all?

My thoughts:

Hm... Jane Eyre meets Beauty and the Beast? Um... you know I was so going to get this book for review. And while this is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast, it actually seemed more than that. At first I was reminded of Dracula and The Secret Garden. Later I became more aware of the influence of Jane Eyre and Beauty and the Beast. I actually would say it is more influenced by Jane Eyre, however. Yea, you can safely say this one felt like an homage to the classics with a bit of steampunk thrown in.

Too much? Actually it worked. I enjoyed sussing out what the influence was and at the same time I was enraptured by Lucy who was no shrinking violet. I even loved that when she was overtaken by fear, she didn't let it stop her. She even was Miles's equal... and dare I say may have surpassed him in fortitude. The mystery is also what moved the story along with Lucy who is the one determined to get to the bottom of things. It is through her and a particular ghost with the same attitude as Lucy that we learn everything that we need to figure out what had happened.

The steampunk in this book is light but does have all the necessary gadgets to get us through the book. I would have liked to know a bit more about a couple of the gadgets but that is really more about curiosity on my part and may have slowed down the pace too much for me to learn those things. So, I do not count that as a niggle in my reading.

I give this steampunk murder mystery thriller paranormal retelling *breath* 4 stars. It is fun, twisty and has some great characters to love. I really recommend it to those that enjoy fantasy and steampunk in particular. It reads as a standalone but I also understand that this is the first in a series and I cannot wait to read the next book.

Silver in the Blood by Jessica Day George

Series: Silver in the Blood #1
358 p.
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA
Published: 7/7/15
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

Society girls from New York City circa 1890, Dacia and Lou never desired to know more about their lineage, instead preferring to gossip about the mysterious Romanian family that they barely knew. But upon turning seventeen, the girls must return to their homeland to meet their relatives, find proper husbands, and—most terrifyingly—learn the deep family secrets of The Claw, The Wing, and The Smoke. The Florescus, after all, are shape-shifters, and it is time for Dacia and Lou to fulfill the prophecy that demands their acceptance of this fate . . . or fight against this cruel inheritance with all their might. 

With a gorgeous Romanian setting, stunning Parisian gowns, and dark brooding young men, readers will be swept up by this epic adventure of two girls in a battle for their lives.

My thoughts:

I really enjoyed the setting in this book. It is mostly set in Romania and there is a mystery to be solved. One that was maddenly present in the beginning since you knew that the knowledge was forthcoming, but very slowly. When you finally find out what the secret was the girls would be tangled with, it wasn't a surprise but it did lend another layer to the story that was needed.

The book was written simply and was a very quick read. It felt as it needed more depth to the main characters, Lou and Dacia and I had a hard time with how the POV shifted. Not so much to take me out of the story but enough to make me stop from time to time. Some of the shifts from the present to the recent past (as we get the information from another POV) didn't feel smooth and sometimes things just felt out of place. I think this is why it was simply written. If it was otherwise, the shifting elements would have become confusing. It just didn't feel smooth.

I give this book 3 stars. I really enjoyed the setting and not everything is resolved in this book. We are still left with questions which I do think that the forthcoming books will provide us with needed answers. I recommend this book to those that enjoy PNR YA and who want a different tale on the Dracula stories.

Audiobook Review: Friday Night Bites by Chloe Neill

Series: Chicagoland Vampires #2
Narrator: Cynthia Holloway
11 hrs. 44 min.
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Published: 1/7/11
Source: Hoopla/Library

Vampires in Chicago! 

You'd think headlines like that would have provoked the fine citizens of the Windy City to take up arms against us bloodsucking fiends. Instead, ten months later, we're enjoying a celebrity status reserved for the Hollywood elite—fending off paparazzi only slightly less dangerous than cross- and stake-wielding slayers. Don't get me wrong. Joe Public isn't exactly thrilled to be living side-by-side with the undead, but at least they haven't stormed the castle...yet. 

All that will change once they learn about the Raves—mass feeding parties where vampires round up humans like cattle and drink themselves silly. Most civilized vampires frown on this behavior—but that doesn't make good copy for a first-time reporter looking to impress his high-society family. 

So now my "master"—the centuries-old yet gorgeously well-preserved Ethan Sullivan—wants me to reconnect with my own upper-class family and act as liaison between humans and vampires...and keep the more unsavory aspects of our existence out of the media. But someone doesn't want people and vamps to play nicey-nice—someone with an ancient grudge.

My thoughts:

I enjoyed this one more than the first and it held my interest much better. I still enjoyed Merit, the heroine, in the story as well as the secondary characters. I have yet to get the warm fuzzies for Ethan but I will say that toward the end of the book I am now willing to admit I may give him a chance. There is still something mysterious with his involvement in Merit's turning (I'm guessing).

I didn't like how the situation was handled with Mallory, her bestie, but it also makes sense. Still, I do hope things aren't dropped and work out. I really like that girl. I'm also happy to say that there is somewhat of a resolution on the triangle and Morgan is not high on my list of likable vamps. Yea, I'm getting close to saying too much so I'll stop now.

I give this audio 4 stars. I'm enjoying Cynthia Holloway's narration and I recommend it on audio if you can get it. Ignore the covers, I'm not loving those and it doesn't look like anything Merit would wear.

Audiobook Review: Magic Slays by Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #5
Unabridged
13 hrs. 17 min.
Narrator: Reneé Raudman
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Published: 6/8/11
Source: Hoopla via library

Plagued by a war between magic and technology, Atlanta has never been so deadly. Good thing Kate Daniels is on the job. 

Kate Daniels may have quit the Order of Merciful Aid, but she’s still knee-deep in paranormal problems. Or she would be if she could get someone to hire her. Starting her own business has been more challenging than she thought it would be—now that the Order is disparaging her good name, and many potential clients are afraid of getting on the bad side of the Beast Lord, who just happens to be Kate’s mate. 

So when Atlanta’s premier Master of the Dead calls to ask for help with a vampire on the loose, Kate leaps at the chance of some paying work. Turns out this is not an isolated incident, and Kate needs to get to the bottom of it—fast, or the city and everyone dear to her might pay the ultimate price.

My thoughts:

Okay, I'm guessing you are reading this because you want to know if I liked the book. Um... seriously?? DUH! I loved the book! My only complaint isn't really a complaint but more a question. How can the beast lord be such an ass and yet still make me root for him? Yes, I still want Kate to occasionally kick said ass (and she does) but I think it is because he eventually sees things Kate's way. That doesn't mean he agrees with everything but at the very least acknowledges her right to be so wrong. LOL

There were several storylines within this book and I was not confused at all. I enjoyed every minute of it. I also love the twist with Julie (even though I was biting my nails about it). I can't wait for the next book and in fact, I have the next one (which is really a full length novella) waiting for me to get to it. YES! Unfortunately this is the last my library has (okay my real complaint) and yes, I begged them to get more of this series in. I want to do it all on audio. Reneé Raudman is my voice for Kate and she is one female narrator who does male voices well.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars and recommend the series to every adult on the planet. This is a must read series and I can't wait to read/listen more!

Audiobook Review: Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #4
Narrator: Renée Raudman
Unabridged
13 hrs. 7 min.
Publisher: Tantor Media
Published: 5/25/10
Source: Library/Hoopla

Atlanta would be a nice place to live, if it weren't for the magic. When the magic is up, rogue mages cast their spells and monsters appear, while guns refuse to fire and cars fail to start. But then technology returns, and the magic recedes as unpredictably as it arose. 

Kate Daniels works for the Order of Knights of Merciful Aid, officially as a liaison with the mercenary guild. Unofficially, she cleans up the paranormal problems no one else wants to handle---especially if they involve Atlanta's shapeshifting community. 

When she's called in to investigate a fight at the Steel Horse, a bar on the border between the territories of the shapeshifters and the necromancers, Kate quickly discovers that there's a new player in town. One who's been around for thousands of years---and who rode to war at the side of Kate's father. 

This foe may be too much even for Kate and Curran, the Beast Lord, to handle. Because this time Kate will be taking on family.

My thoughts:
You know if you step back and look at what went on in this book you would say that it is all about relationships. Romantic relationships with misunderstandings, coming together and facing a problem together. Family relationships, some that include friends you consider family and those crazy relatives you don't want anyone to know that you are related to each other.  Okay, this makes it sound like chick lit.... as long as you ignore all the bloody fights. But then again... some family dynamics seem tame compared to the shenanigans that exploded here. (fyi note: I do not watch reality tv but I've seen the commercials! LOL)

I have to say I loved this book in the series. The series just seems to be getting better and better. In fact I was sad to have had it ended. I just didn't want to put it down. Reneé Raudman also does an excellent job with the narration and I do plan on doing the rest of the series in audio. I highly recommend this series on audio (if you haven't guessed already!). I also give this relationship book 5 stars. This series really captures a dysfunctional family in a fun way. :D I recommend the series for those that enjoy UF.

Audiobook Review: Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #3
Narrator: Renée Raudman
Unabridged
10 hrs. 50 min.
Publisher: Tantor Media
Published: 8/6/09
Source: Library/Hoopla

When magic strikes and Atlanta goes to pieces, it’s a job for Kate Daniels…

Drafted into working for the Order of Merciful Aid, mercenary Kate Daniels has more paranormal problems than she knows what to do with these days. And in Atlanta, where magic comes and goes like the tide, that’s saying a lot. 

But when Kate's werewolf friend Derek is discovered nearly dead, she must confront her greatest challenge yet. As her investigation leads her to the Midnight Games—an invitation only, no holds barred, ultimate preternatural fighting tournament—she and Curran, the Lord of the Beasts, uncover a dark plot that may forever alter the face of Atlanta's shapeshifting community…

My thoughts:
Um... can I say "WOW!" Yea, I totally get what the fuss is about. This book totally captured me and I didn't want to put it down. I also have liked Curran but in this one... again... I see what the fuss is about. He isn't as present in this one bodily but yet was there for every step all of the characters took. I also LOVED the way he is expressing himself to Kate. I had to laugh and smile a few times especially in the epilogue. ;D

We also get more of the thread that is running through Kate's life. We got hints of an overall arc concerning her blood but it is revealed in this book. I guess I should clarify... not everything is revealed but this is really where that mystery arc starts. I cannot wait to find out more.

I give this audio 5 stars. I'm totally captivated and I will continue to do these books on audio. I really enjoy Renée's narration. I don't often like it when women narrated men but in this case I find she does an exceptional job and I cannot hear anyone else as Kate. I hope she does all the books in this series. I recommend this series for those that enjoy UF and a kick arse heroine. Yea, the men in the books aren't to shabby either. LOL ;)

Blog Tour with Giveaway: Embers by Karen Ann Hopkins

Series: The Wings of War #1
357 p.
Published: 10/21/14
Source: From Kismet for review

There are descendants of angels walking among us. Ember is one of them. And she may be the only hope mankind has as the rapture approaches and evils rises. 

Embers is an epic paranormal adventure about a seventeen year old girl who discovers that she's immune to fire and any other injury when she’s in a horrific car crash that kills her parents. Following a violent episode with her aunt's boyfriend, Ember flees Ohio to live with an old relative in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. Ember's exuberance at escaping a bad home life soon turns to trepidation when she finds out that she's a Watcher, a descendant of angels. While Ember learns about her heritage, and the powers that go along with it, she strikes up friendships with two teenagers who live in a frightening walled compound in the forest. Inexplicitly drawn to one of the young men in particular, an impossible romance develops. But it is cut short when Ember discovers that her new friends are fighting on the opposite side of a war, one that’s been raging between two factions of Watchers for thousands of years. When the compound’s inhabitants threaten the townspeople, Ember takes action, sealing her fate in the ancient battle of good versus evil, and the grayness in between. Ember is up to the challenge, until she realizes that she isn’t only fighting for the lives of the locals and the souls of her new friends. She also might be one of the few champions who will make a stand for all of mankind as the rapture approaches and the end of days begin.

My thoughts:
Of course I can't start this review without mentioning the cover. Another great cover by Jenny (Supernatural Snark and Seedlings). Of course I jumped at reviewing this book because of the beautiful cover. It also fits the story very well.

I did enjoy all the characters but would have liked a few of the secondary characters fleshed out a bit  more. I would have loved to know a bit more about Aunt Ila especially and her brother who we only see at the beginning of the book. I would also like to see more secondary characters in general with Ember's quest and I have a feeling there will be more forthcoming.

My biggest problem with this book is with her romance with Sawyer. In the human world he is obsessive, abusive, and a danger to Ember and her loved ones. So while she straddled the line between the supernatural and the mundane I had a problem with her gravitating toward him. However, when she was just involved in the supernatural world I had no problem with him at all. It had to do with context. In this world he was a demon and that was his nature. It made sense.

I give this book 3 stars. I did enjoy the writing and once the supernatural world took over I seemed to enjoy it even more. I'm looking forward to the continuation of this series and finding out what happens next.

About Embers:

Goodreads

Amazon

About Karen Ann Hopkins:

A native of New York State, Karen Ann Hopkins now lives with her family on a farm in northern Kentucky, where her neighbors in all directions are members of a strict Amish community. Her unique perspective became the inspiration for the story of star-crossed lovers Rose and Noah. When she’s not homeschooling her kids, giving riding lessons or tending to a menagerie of horses, goats, peacocks, chickens, ducks, rabbits, dogs and cats, she is dreaming up her next romantic novel.

Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Giveaway!

There will be two winners for this giveaway. One lucky person will get a $100 gift card and the other will receive a signed Temptation Series book set, including Temptation, Belonging & Forever and 10 other winners will get eCopies of EMBERS. Giveaway is sponsored by the Kismet Tours.

Please enter via the Rafflecopter form. Giveaway is open internationally for the gift card and ebooks. US/Canada for the book set!

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Tour Schedule:

Monday, October 20th Unabridged Bookshelf & Book Briefs
Tuesday, October 21st A Thousand Words A Million Books & Books and Things
Wednesday, October 22nd Sweet Southern Home & Tween 2 Teen Book Reviews
Thursday, October 23rd the unofficial addiction book fan club
Friday, October 24th A Dream Within A Dream & Becoming Books

Monday, October 27th The Avid Reader & Lost in Ever After
Tuesday, October 28th Lose Time Reading & So Bookalicious
Wednesday, October 29th Such a Novel Idea & Reading Addict
Thursday, October 30th Curling Up With A Good Book & Coming at YA
Friday, October 31st Actin' Up with Books & To Each Their Own Reviews

Monday, November 3rd GenGen's Book Blog & A Bookish Escape
Tuesday, November 4th Sassy Book Lovers & Bittersweet Enchantment
Wednesday, November 5th Nay's Pink Bookshelf & The Nocturnal Library
Thursday, November 6th The Book Faery Reviews & Bumbles and Fairy-Tales
Friday, November 7th Books in the Spotlight & Her Book Thoughts!

For more info go to the Tour Page

Whisper the Dead by Alyxandra Harvey

Series: The Lovegrove Legacy #2
408 p.
Published: 10/7/14
Publisher: Bloomsbury Childrens
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

Cousins Gretchen, Emma, and Penelope are all dealing with what it means to be a Lovegrove. For Gretchen, it means she often feels like her head is going to explode. As a Whisperer, Gretchen constantly hears the whispers of other witches' spells. And while this does help her to know when one of her own spells is going wrong, the incessant buzzing and pain the whispers cause makes it difficult to use her gift. 

But when something evil begins to menace Mayfair, Gretchen must find a way to master her power. Along with her cousins, a madcap named Moira, and the icy yet irresistible Tobias Lawless, Gretchen faces deadly threats and unimaginable loss in the hopes of preventing the terrible Greymalkin Sisters from rising again.

The second book in The Lovegrove Legacy trilogy, Whisper the Dead will leave readers spellbound.

My thoughts:
I had a bit of a problem getting into this one because it is told with multi-POVs which kept confusing me. Now had I read it right after the first I probably wouldn't have kept confusing the characters. Now when the girls, Gretchen, Emma and Penelope, separate I had no problems what so ever with getting everyone straight. Those parts of the book really took off for me and I was quite enthralled. I believe that if I had reread the first book none of it would have confused me. So, I recommend a reread of the first for those that might feel a bit lost with multi-POVs. I didn't feel that way with the first book and I sincerely think I am to blame for the confusion.

What I did love about this book is that the author went deeper with the characters. I felt like I got to know many of the secondary characters much better in this installment. I also liked how the magic really adds to the plot within this story. I felt it was stronger here than in the first book.

I give this book 3 stars. It is a book with multi-POVs and a complex plot. I do suggest a reread of the first book or even reading it close to reading this one. Don't let that put you off of the book. I think you will find a rich world with great characters within the pages. I do warn that there is a cliffie but it didn't bother me too much knowing that this is a trilogy and the conclusion to the adventure is in sight.

Circle of Fire (Damask Circle #1) by Keri Arthur

Series: Damask Circle #1
336p.
Publisher: Dell
Published: 1/28/14 (first published: 08/20/01)
Source: NetGalley and the publisher for review

VISIONS OF TERROR 

Sixteen teenagers taken from their homes. Eleven bodies recovered, each completely drained of blood. Some believe vampires are responsible. Jon Barnett knows that what’s happening is far worse. Sent by a group of paranormal investigators known as the Damask Circle, Jon quickly becomes enmeshed in a web of black magic and realizes he needs help. But fate gives him only one choice. 

Madeline Smith has retreated to an isolated farmhouse, afraid of the abilities she cannot control—abilities that have killed. But when a “ghost” brings a warning of danger and her nephew goes missing, Maddie not only has to leave her haven, she has to place her trust in a man who is neither ghost nor human. As the noose of sorcery tightens, the search for the teenagers becomes a race against time. But the greatest danger to Maddie and Jon could be the intense feelings they refuse to acknowledge but cannot ignore.

My thoughts:
This is a book that was previously published but is being rereleased. This is a PNR shifter type of story with your standard HEA at the end. It has no cliffie *cheers* so it can be read as a standalone and I suspect the next book will be another couple. I enjoy those since you can read out of order (but since this is the first one, of course that isn't the issue here) and not be lost.

The story is one we are quite familiar. Trouble starts we have to opposing and flawed characters, neither of whom are looking for love. As they are forced to work together we see the sparks fly and they try to balance solving the issue as well as trying not to fall for each other. Something we know is inevitable. Okay, so it is predictable, but still fun to see how they do it in the specific world created here. We are also introduced to knowing the Damask Circle exists, but nothing more. Something to build upon in the coming books.

I give this story 3 stars. It is a fun PNR where you want to sometimes kick both characters in the arse for not dealing with the emotions they obviously have for each other. You will probably enjoy this one if you are in the mood for a PNR with a bit of action.

Cold Blooded (Jessica McClain #3) by Amanda Carlson

Series: Jessica McClain #3
336p.
Publisher: Orbit
Published: Oct. 8, 13
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

Jessica arrives back in town to find her best friend missing and the most powerful witch in the country is blaming her for it. But before they can move to save her, the group is attacked. 

On the run, Jessica and Rourke head to the mountains. Several surprises await them, but in order to save her father they are forced to leave for New Orleans early. 

Arriving on the Vampire Queen's doorstep unexpectedly, and bringing trouble on their heels, the Sects are thrown into an all out war. The vicious skirmish ends up forcing the vamps and Jessica to fight on the same team. 

The Vamp Queen ends up owing Jessica, but what Jessica doesn't realize is just how soon she'll have to cash it in...

I admit that the last books ended with me cursing the author. Mostly because even though it had a full story, it would end in such a way that was a cliffie. I hate those things and trust me, the other two books were so good it didn't need it at all for me to crave the next. Still, crave it I did and so I was happy to get this book in my hot little ereader! :D

In this series if you are sorely lacking any kind of action for your book, you will love this series as a whole. It is JAM packed with action. This book is no different and we are pretty much on the go from the start. With so much going on I began to wonder how this girl was able to recharge. I didn't see much on sleep or even eating so the refueling was at a minimum. I would have thought that there would have been a few scenes where she desperately needed to refuel. Still, if that really is my only complaint I should just shut my mouth because really... magic! I can believe that magic totally did the trick. Mostly because I think those scenes where she refueled would have slowed down the book too much... maybe. :)

We get to know a bit more about Rourke! YEA! Can you cheer? Still an enigma but much better known. Still, don't expect him to take the driving seat in this series. This is all about Jessica and how she is dealing with the supernatural community and what it means. He is in the passenger's seat a bit, but it doesn't bother him unless she is in danger (and she is in danger all the time). Still, he is what feels like the perfect mate for Jessica in all aspects of her life. He might have to fight his protective instincts at times, but he trust Jessica fully. I loved that!

I give this book 4.5 stars. It was just as much fun as the last two and please... can someone get me the next book? Oh and yes, I did curse the author again in the end. The main story is completed but we are left with a huge reveal for the next book. Where is my book???? :D

Kitty in the Underworld (Kitty Noville #12) by Carrie Vaughn

Series: Kitty Noville #12
305p.
Publisher: Tor
Available: Now
Source: From Tor for review

 As Denver adjusts to a new master vampire, Kitty gets word of an intruder in the Denver werewolf pack’s territory, and she investigates the challenge to her authority. She follows the scent of the lycanthrope through the mountains where she is lured into a trap, tranquilized, and captured. When she wakes up, she finds herself in a defunct silver mine: the perfect cage for a werewolf. Her captors are a mysterious cult seeking to induct Kitty into their ranks in a ritual they hope will put an end to Dux Bellorum. Though skeptical of their power, even Kitty finds herself struggling to resist joining their cause. Whatever she decides, they expect Kitty to join them in their plot... willingly or otherwise.

My thoughts:
Usually I enjoy Kitty stumbling around trying to figure the best way out of a situation thrust upon her. This time, however, I was quite frustrated with her. She became stuck in a situation in where she was the one with the greatest amount of knowledge but with the least amount of influence. I don't see Kitty actually choosing that situation. She did and so my frustration with her rose.

The action was quite good and engaging, but I had a hard time with the players in this situation. I just didn't quite buy Kumbaris as a sage vampire. In fact, he seemed quite juvenile in his behavior. I also had a hard time believing the other weres in the story we so willing to follow him into the unknown. Perhaps there is a backstory there that would explain that fully. However, despite my unusual frustration with this character and the characters surrounding her, I did otherwise enjoy my time back in this world.

I did enjoy the information Kitty did gather about the "Long Game" arc in the story. Information we sorely need to defeat this undefeatable baddie. :) Especially for that information, this book should not be missed with this series. I am looking forward to the next book and I can't wait to see how that Long Game arc plays out. I give this book 3 stars.

Hot Blooded (Jessica McClain #2) by Amanda Carlson

It hasn't been the best week for Jessica McClain.

Her mate has been kidnapped by a Goddess hell-bent on revenge --- but Jessica is playing for keeps.

Because she's the only female werewolf in town...it comes with its own set of rules...and powers.

Aided by two vamps, two loyal Pack members, and one very reluctant human, Jessica must rescue her man while coming to terms with what being a wolf really means.

All in a day's work for a girl.

The second novel in the Jessica McClain series is a full on action adventure featuring one angry Goddess and plenty of monsters, demons, and a few newly risen beasties...

This book picks up right after the last book left off. It is the journey you were expecting and it did not disappoint. Lots of action and adventure in harrowing circumstances. In fact it was nearly never ending. It makes sense since the evil Selene wouldn't give up her prize easily. You also get some more insight into the world in which they live and you are also learning with the rest of them. Most of the things weren't known to the weres because they had no need to learn them. The group realizes now that is a mistake. So, I suspect we will be getting even more in depth world learning as the series progresses.

We also learn more about Jessica's abilities and we meet more secondary characters. Danny is the comic relief and I can't wait to see more of him. We also meet some vampires and we really get to know the detective, Ray who gave her hell in the last book. With those characters you appropriately like the ones you are supposed to and even warm up to the others except the evil ones. :) My only complaint is that you know no more about Rourke in this book than in the first. Very frustrating but also something to look forward!

I give this adventure 4 stars. I enjoyed it and it reminded me a lot of the Persephone Alcmedi series I recently reviewed. Both have a strong intelligent female with great power who is prophesied to bring justice to the world. I'm enjoying that angle. One warning.... this book also ends with a sort of cliffie. I actually don't like this. The adventure is complete, but the start of the next series is the ending of this one as it was in the first book. I would have liked it better if she stopped one chapter back. I would have still craved that next book (without frustration!). This book is out today!

I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley and no compensation for my review was given.

Full Blooded (Jessica McClain #1) by Amanda Carlson

Born the only female in an all male race, Jessica McClain isn’t just different—she’s feared. 

After living under the radar for the last twenty-six years, Jessica is thrust unexpectedly into her first change, a full ten years late. She wakes up and finds she’s in the middle of a storm. Now that she’s become the only female full-blooded werewolf in town, the supernatural world is already clamoring to take a bite out of her and her new Pack must rise up and protect her. 

But not everyone is on board. The werewolf Rights of Laws is missing text and the superstitious werewolves think that Jessica means an end to their race. It doesn’t help when Jessica begins to realize she’s more. She can change partway and hold her form, and speak directly to her wolf. But the biggest complication by far is that her alpha father can't control her like he can the rest of his wolves. 

When a mercenary who’s been hired by the vampires shows up to extract information about the newly turned werewolf only days after her change, they find themselves smack in the middle of a war and there's no choice but to run together. When it’s up to Jessica to negotiate her release against her father’s direct orders, she chooses to take an offer for help instead. In exchange, Jessica must now swear an oath she may end up repaying with her life.

 I have to say that I throughly enjoyed this book. In fact it just took me a little over a day to finish it because I just had to know what happened next. It's a fun UF with a good dose of PNR. I really enjoyed the pace of the book which was quite fast. It seems that like other heroines, Jessica has nothing but trouble coming her way.

What I do think I enjoyed most was a lot of the plot angles were missing in this book that you get with this genre. One was that the heroine somehow forgets that they need to follow rules and that there will be consequences. This is one plot device that always bothers me. However, in this book Jessica is usually on top of those things and never forgets the consequences. Instead of her beast knowing what is best, it is Jessica and she often has to convince or remind her wolf. I liked that because the baser instincts SHOULD be the wolf's and not the insipid female which happens a lot. Even when she has to defy rules, she does it in full awareness. Yes, Jessica may not be a brainiac, but she does have smarts and uses her brain.

I also like that even though she is new and in the dark about what it means (another familiar plot device), she is forging ahead not by bumbling (even though she has no choice at times) but by using the knowledge she DOES have to try to figure out the best way out of or into a situation. I also like the way she was introduced to her mate and that it felt like they were mated even in such a short time. Sometimes that is a hard thing to pull off.

I also enjoyed the secondary characters and how carefully the world is constructed. Plot points were not ignored for the ease of moving things along. In other words, you felt that if there was a threat made, it would be followed through if forced. It would not be moved aside for the sake of the story.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. I deducted a 1/2 star since everything was not wrapped up. It wasn't exactly a cliffie but it was a bit abrupt (not too much, but enough) and some things introduced in the end was not solved. That might have been better to start the second book instead of having it at the end of the first. Luckily the second one is already out and available. :)

I received this ebook from NetGalley and the publisher and no compensation for my review was given.

Kitty Steals the Show (Kitty Norville #10) by Carrie Vaughn

Kitty has been tapped as the keynote speaker for the First International Conference on Paranatural Studies, taking place in London. The conference brings together scientists, activists, protestors, and supernatural beings from all over the world—and Kitty, Ben, and Cormac are right in the middle of it.

Master vampires from dozens of cities have also gathered in London for a conference of their own. With the help of the Master of London, Kitty gets more of a glimpse into the Long Game—a power struggle among vampires that has been going on for centuries—than she ever has before. In her search for answers, Kitty has the help of some old allies, and meets some new ones, such as Caleb, the alpha werewolf of the British Isles. The conference has also attracted some old enemies, who’ve set their sights on her and her friends. 

All the world’s a stage, and Kitty’s just stepped into the spotlight.

As you know I've been catching up on my series reading. Unfortunately, the library didn't catch up as fast as I wanted so I have had to mix it up a bit and go with #10 when I should have been reading #8. However, it didn't matter I never got lost and I really enjoyed my time with Kitty and the gang. So, while I wasn't lost, it really is more enjoyable to read these in order. You really get the feel of the characters growth that way. Yes, I did say read in order... don't faint on me. ;)

In this book Kitty goes to London. I thought it was perfect because of the summer Olympic games. Already had London fever, so I slipped into the world quite easily. There is a international conference on the paranormal and Kitty is a guest speaker as well as attendant. And since this is Kitty, you know she finds trouble even when she isn't trying. In this case, she did try a little, but with good cause. All I can say about that without spoiling the other previous books. :)

In this story we also get a few new characters. We get to know more master vampires, lycanthopes, and even faeries (I mean we are in England...). I really enjoyed getting to know them all and found myself eager to learn more of the back story on a couple of characters I missed. Even so, as I said before, I was not lost at all.

In the end, the main story feels complete. The story arc that we have had since book 6 (and hints of it before that as well...) is still not finished, so you know that Kitty will return. I really can't wait.

I give this book 4 stars. I really enjoyed my time in London with Kitty. I loved her compassion for others as well as her banter with her husband, Ben. I really love them as a couple. I suggest it for those that love a good were story as well as those who enjoy UF. Seriously, I recommend the whole series.

I received this book from the publisher Tor and no compensation for my review was given

Full list of the Kitty Norville Series

Okay, fine you want me to stop blathering and get to the giveaway. The publisher, Tor is allowing me to give away one copy of this book! YaY! It's US/Can only and enter by filling out the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

Blood and Silver (Deacon Chalk #2) by James R. Tuck

He hasn't met a monster yet that could give him a scare. With ice in his veins, silver hollow-points in his chambers, and an innate ability to rise from the dead, what's to fear? The answer may be something he doesn't want to face. 

Deacon Chalk normally has no trouble telling innocent victims from real monsters. So protecting an abused pregnant were-dog is a no-brainer... until a vicious lycanthrope leader and his brotherhood target Deacon, other shape-shifters, and any humans in their way.

Suddenly, Deacon is outnumbered, outgunned, and unsure who--or what--to trust. The only edge he has left is a weapon hungry for his soul and his most savage impulses. And using it will exact a price even this hell-raising hunter fears to pay...

This is the second novel in this series and the 4th book (2 novellas) but you could read this one without reading the others as the back story presents itself when needed. You could fully get a feel for Deacon without the other adventures, but you will probably want to read them anyway.

Those fans of UF will love the fast paced action and some of the cold hearted decisions he makes within this story. Deacon is still someone you would want on your side because as soon as he considers you family, he'll protect you with his life. Plus, injustice for the smaller and weaker gets his blood boiling and he just might protect you if you need it even if he never met you before.

Deacon finds himself protecting a were-dog who seems to be caught in a war among the lycanthropes. It's the prey animals against the predators with a few of the predators against the age old way of the dominate abusing their power. It's no easy battle and the group they come up against seems unstoppable. Just another battle to Deacon.

I did enjoy this hard won battle. More so for the battle raging within Deacon himself that he seems to finally be winning. The one that scarred him and brought him to fight the monsters and keep as many innocents safe as possible. Those that read this series know what I'm talking about and I was beginning to think he was using his family's death as an excuse to keep people at a safe distance. I was glad Deacon let go of some things even so slightly. It added a bit of growth to his character.

I give this book 4 stars. It's a fast paced UF and I'm hoping for more character growth in the coming books in this series. I'd really like to see him dig deeper within.

I received this eARC from the author and no compensation for my review was given.