Audiobook Review: Wayward Children series #1-3 by Seanan Maguire

Since these were so short for audio, I thought I'd do some quick reviews of the books. This is not the complete series but only the ones my library had at the time.

Series: Wayward Children #1
Unabridged
Published: 4/5/16
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Narrator: Cynthia Hopkins
Length: 4 hrs. 44 min.
Source: Hoopla/Library

No SolicitationsNo VisitorsNo Quests 

Children have always disappeared under the right conditions; slipping through the shadows under a bed or at the back of a wardrobe, tumbling down rabbit holes and into old wells, and emerging somewhere... else. 

But magical lands have little need for used-up miracle children. 

Nancy tumbled once, but now she’s back. The things she’s experienced... they change a person. The children under Miss West’s care understand all too well. And each of them is seeking a way back to their own fantasy world. 

But Nancy’s arrival marks a change at the Home. There’s a darkness just around each corner, and when tragedy strikes, it’s up to Nancy and her new-found schoolmates to get to the heart of the matter. 

No matter the cost.

My thoughts: This is a modern adult faerie tale even though it centers around young children. It is often dark and deals with a few adult themes and is also very inclusive. If you are looking for a dark adventure with diversity, this series is for you. There is a mystery that is easily solved but it still captured me nonetheless. I give it 4 stars as it had a slow start but worked well on audio.

~~~~~~~

Series: Wayward Children #2
Unabridged
Published: 5/18/17
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Narrator: Seanan Maguire
Length: 4 hrs. 4 min.
Source: Hoopla/Library

Twin sisters Jack and Jill were seventeen when they found their way home and were packed off to Eleanor West’s Home for Wayward Children.
This is the story of what happened first… 

Jacqueline was her mother’s perfect daughter—polite and quiet, always dressed as a princess. If her mother was sometimes a little strict, it’s because crafting the perfect daughter takes discipline. 

Jillian was her father’s perfect daughter—adventurous, thrill-seeking, and a bit of a tom-boy. He really would have preferred a son, but you work with what you've got.
They were five when they learned that grown-ups can’t be trusted.

They were twelve when they walked down the impossible staircase and discovered that the pretense of love can never be enough to prepare you a life filled with magic in a land filled with mad scientists and death and choices.

My thoughts: It was delightful to hear the book by the author and so I was intrigued to hear how she would voice all the characters. She did an excellent job and I slipped easily into the world. This one had a great message in how people try to box someone into their expectations and how it effects the person and how the brave find who they are despite those expectations.

Wayward Children #3
Unabridged
Published: 1/9/18
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Narrator: Michelle Dockery
Length: 4 hrs. 15 min.

Beneath the Sugar Sky returns to Eleanor West's Home for Wayward Children. At this magical boarding school, children who have experienced fantasy adventures are reintroduced to the "real" world.

Sumi died years before her prophesied daughter Rini could be born. Rini was born anyway, and now she’s trying to bring her mother back from a world without magic.

My thoughts: This was probably my least favorite in terms of Rini as I didn't care for her until the end. However the secondary characters make up for that lack and I was excited to see Sumi again. The ending was interesting and I love it when characters find where they truly belong. I look forward to listening to more of these stories and I hope my library gets them.

🧚 

Audiobook Review: Hunted by Kevin Hearne

Series: The Iron Druid Chronicles #6
Unabridged
Published: 6/25/13
Publisher: Random House Audio
Narrator: Luke Daniels
Length: 9 hrs. 52 min.
Source: Library

For a two-thousand-year-old Druid, Atticus O’Sullivan is a pretty fast runner. Good thing, because he’s being chased by not one but two goddesses of the hunt—Artemis and Diana—for messing with one of their own. Dodging their slings and arrows, Atticus, Granuaile, and his wolfhound Oberon are making a mad dash across modern-day Europe to seek help from a friend of the Tuatha Dé Danann. His usual magical option of shifting planes is blocked, so instead of playing hide-and-seek, the game plan is . . . run like hell. 

Crashing the pantheon marathon is the Norse god Loki. Killing Atticus is the only loose end he needs to tie up before unleashing Ragnarok—AKA the Apocalypse. Atticus and Granuaile have to outfox the Olympians and contain the god of mischief if they want to go on living—and still have a world to live in.

My thoughts:

If you haven't tried these books on audiobook, I do suggest you try at least one. I do love Luke Daniel's narration of this series and he is the voice of Atticus in my head. His rendition of Oberon is always spot on and is capable of making me laugh. Like most male narrators, it takes me a while to get used to his female voices but it didn't take me long (like usual) to just fall into the flow and it didn't bother me at all in a few minutes.

The humor of his stories was back in this one and I loved learning about his version of mythology. There was a huge twist that I didn't expect and while I knew what the outcome would have to be, I just didn't know how it would be solved.

The romance in the book was still on the back burner but definitely there. It was cute and there was also a possible partner for Atticus that did surprise but not really at the same time. Atticus, like a lot of males, was clueless until it was too late. It really did make it interesting to see his emotions about this event (which I will evilly not tell... bwa haha).

I give this book 4 stars. My biggest niggle about the book is how it ended. It didn't quite feel like a solid end to me but it wasn't really a cliffie, it just felt unfinished and abrupt although others might tell you otherwise. It just felt that way to me. I will continue the series as I'm curious as to what else Atticus, Granuaile and Oberon have in store for us all next.

🌳

The Reluctant Queen by Sarah Beth Durst

Series: The Queens of Renthia #2
368 p.
Publisher: Harper Voyager
Published: 7/4/17
Source: From author for review

Everything has a spirit: the willow tree with leaves that kiss the pond, the stream that feeds the river, the wind that exhales fresh snow . . .
And those spirits want to kill you.It’s the first lesson that every Renthian learns. 

(minor spoilers for first book in blurb) Not long ago, Daleina used her strength and skill to survive those spirits and assume the royal throne. Since then, the new queen has kept the peace and protected the humans of her land. But now for all her power, she is hiding a terrible secret: she is dying. And if she leaves the world before a new heir is ready, the spirits that inhabit her beloved realm will run wild, destroying her cities and slaughtering her people. 

Naelin is one such person, and she couldn’t be further removed from the Queen—and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Her world is her two children, her husband, and the remote village tucked deep in the forest that is her home, and that’s all she needs. But when Ven, the Queens champion, passes through the village, Naelin’s ambitious husband proudly tells him of his wife’s ability to control spirits—magic that Naelin fervently denies. She knows that if the truth of her abilities is known, it will bring only death and separation from those she loves. 

But Ven has a single task: to find the best possible candidate to protect the people of Aratay. He did it once when he discovered Daleina, and he’s certain he’s done it again. Yet for all his appeals to duty, Naelin is a mother, and she knows her duty is to her children first and foremost. Only as the Queen’s power begins to wane and the spirits become emboldened—even as ominous rumors trickle down from the north—does she realize that the best way to keep her son and daughter safe is to risk everything.

My thoughts (spoiler free):

You hear so much about sophomore slump in series but this one has none of that. I really liked the first book, but I have to say I enjoyed this one a bit more. This may also be enjoyed more by adults than the first one as one of the heroines in the tale is a mother, Naelin, who is quite mature to start, but still grows and has even more maturity in the end.

This book is split between several POVs (more than the first book) but you are never lost and it flows well. The multiple POVs enhance the story and bring you more fully into what is going on. We do get less of Daleina, our heroine of the last story, and her role and character feel like it is more relegated to a secondary character which might be my only complaint about the book. I really wanted to be with her as she also grew into more maturity. However, this is really a minor niggle and I still enjoyed the character who has fully embraced her new role in the story.

There were red herrings I fell for, some twists I figured out early and one huge twist I didn't see coming. This was an interesting adventure and a harder puzzle to see come together. It did fall into place well in the end and the book feels complete. You are left with open roads to more books in the series but no real cliffie... until... the epilogue. It wasn't the kind of cliffhanger I hate but it is one that does the job nicely in making me want the next book NOW.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. I really think this one was even better than the first book, but do not skip that first book. The first book solidifies the world and the problems within it. It is also a good book and should not be missed on that merit. I highly recommend this series to those that enjoy fantasy. It can also be easily enjoyed by those that don't foray too deep in fantasy since it isn't heavy handed but an enjoyable adventure.

If you missed it, the review of first book, The Queen of Blood.

👑

The Queen of Blood by Sarah Beth Durst

Series: The Queens of Renthia
368 p.
Publisher: Harper Voyager
Published: 9/20/16
Source: From author for review

An idealistic young student and a banished warrior become allies in a battle to save their realm in this first book of a mesmerizing epic fantasy series, filled with political intrigue, violent magic, malevolent spirits, and thrilling adventure 

Everything has a spirit: the willow tree with leaves that kiss the pond, the stream that feeds the river, the wind that exhales fresh snow... 

But the spirits that reside within this land want to rid it of all humans. One woman stands between these malevolent spirits and the end of humankind: the queen. She alone has the magical power to prevent the spirits from destroying every man, woman, and child. But queens are still just human, and no matter how strong or good, the threat of danger always looms.

With the position so precarious, young women are chosen to train as heirs. Daleina, a seemingly quiet academy student, is under no illusions as to her claim to the throne, but simply wants to right the wrongs that have befallen the land. Ven, a disgraced champion, has spent his exile secretly fighting against the growing number of spirit attacks. Joining forces, these daring partners embark on a treacherous quest to find the source of the spirits’ restlessness—a journey that will test their courage and trust, and force them to stand against both enemies and friends to save their land... before it’s bathed in blood.

My thoughts:

I really enjoy Sarah Beth Durst's work and was excited to get this one, especially since I had the next ready once I finished it. I was not disappointed with this addition to her work and I really enjoy this author's imagination.

This is mostly a story about Daleina who doesn't exactly want to be queen but be an important part of protecting her realm. Her magic is different than the others as well as weaker, but her determination makes up for the rest. She also seems consumed by her quest and being simultaneously pushed and supported by her sister she forges ahead. In the end she makes several life altering decisions including who she wants to be in this world, but plans never work out the way we intended. She is forced into another decision and that leads us to the end of the first book. A satisfying ending but still not a completely happy one either.

I should also mention some of the other secondary characters who really enhance the worldbuilding and play nicely off our heroine. None are perfect but their imperfections really make the character. Ven is an interesting character we know we will see again but I have to say my favorite was Bayn the wolf. I won't explain more about that character, you will just have to see for yourself.

While I would consider this one to be YA, I think adults would also enjoy this fantasy. The worldbuilding is unique and I really am curious about the spirits they rely on and fear. It is a interesting mix of emotions and precarious trust (and total lack of trust) between both. It also leads to many questions about this world that aren't answered here but the lack of those answers aren't frustrating as we are learning as the characters learn.

I give this book 4 stars and I highly recommend it everyone. I really think it will appeal to those that enjoy fantasy and a unique world. It will make you crave the next book.

🌳

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.

🎪

Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs

Series: Mercy Thompson #5
342 p.
Publisher: Ace Books
Published: 3/30/10
Source: TBR pile

Mercy is smart enough to realize that when it comes to the magical fae, the less you know, the better. But you can't always get what you want. When she attempts to return a powerful fae she previously borrowed in an act of desperation, she finds the bookstore locked up and closed down. 

It seems the book contains secrets - and the fae will do just about anything to keep it out of the wrong hands. And if that doesn't take enough of Mercy's attention, her friend Samuel is struggling with his wolf side - leaving Mercy to cover for him lest his own father declare Samuel's life forfeit. 

All in all, Mercy has had better days. And if she isn't careful, she may not have many more...

My thoughts:

First, let me say something about that cover. I do like pretty much all Dan Dos Santos covers, but I hear that not everyone does and the biggest complaint is about her tats. Let me give you a hint about those tats.... they tell the story in the book. If you go back and examine them with the story in the book, you will see that they have imagery about the tale. This one, I admit, is harder to decipher, but the others seem to be more telling. When I figured that part out, I tend to pay more attention to her tats on these covers. I'm sad to see that there are alternative covers for these books.

 It had been a while since I read the last book and I've been wanting to catch up with this series. I finally took this book off my shelf and dove in. I was glad I did. Mercy still attracts danger without trying but she always seems to be up to whatever life throws at her, even if it is overwhelming. She doesn't hesitate to come to the aid of anyone she deems friend or family and the romance between her and Adam continues. We also get more about Samuel and what is going on with him. His problems become critical and Snowball (*grin*) takes charge. I found that with everything happening to Mercy, that part filled with me the most apprehension.

I give this book 4 stars. It is a great continuation of this series but I wouldn't start with this book if you are just getting into the series. This one I would suggest reading in order because you get a feel of who everyone is and what importance they have in Mercy's life. This is important because the characters take precedence over all the paranormal happenings and it is their relationship to each other that pulls you through the story. I recommend the series to anyone who enjoys UF.

🐾

Hunted by Megan Spooner

Standalone
352 p.
Publisher: HarperTeen
Published: 3/14/17
Source: From Edelweiss and publisher for review

Beauty knows the Beast’s forest in her bones—and in her blood. Though she grew up with the city’s highest aristocrats, far from her father’s old lodge, she knows that the forest holds secrets and that her father is the only hunter who’s ever come close to discovering them.

So when her father loses his fortune and moves Yeva and her sisters back to the outskirts of town, Yeva is secretly relieved. Out in the wilderness, there’s no pressure to make idle chatter with vapid baronessas…or to submit to marrying a wealthy gentleman. But Yeva’s father’s misfortune may have cost him his mind, and when he goes missing in the woods, Yeva sets her sights on one prey: the creature he’d been obsessively tracking just before his disappearance.

Deaf to her sisters’ protests, Yeva hunts this strange Beast back into his own territory—a cursed valley, a ruined castle, and a world of creatures that Yeva’s only heard about in fairy tales. A world that can bring her ruin or salvation. Who will survive: the Beauty, or the Beast?

My thoughts:

I should probably recuse myself from reviewing this one because I love Beauty and the Beast retellings. I really loved this one, not for the romance (actually there was very little of it until the end) but because it is usually the heroine that is the strong one of the tale. This one holds to that tradition and makes Yeva (aka Beauty) a unusually strong woman who loves to hunt and go out into the wood exploring and finding that fairy tales are real.

The core of this tale is also not the romance. That may put off some readers but the theme is really about want and desire. Do we know what we really want? Do we understand what we really desire? The mythos is based on that premise as well as the tale she finds herself a part of. A tale told to Beauty which became her favorite which she starts to fully understand while living it. That does make for an interesting twist as it also becomes her real mission is to see what is before her and know what she really wants out of life. This is also not one where once you figure it out it is all solved, but knowing human nature and that wanting the next thing will always be around the corner. We can only hope our next want will accompany wisdom as well.

I give this tale 4 1/2 stars and highly recommend it to those, like me, that love a Beauty and the Beast retelling. Do be aware that the romance is minimal until the end but the hero is still the Beauty of the tale.

Labyrinth Lost by Zoraida Córdova

Series: Brooklyn Brujas #1
336 p.
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Published: Sept. 6, 2016
Source: From publisher and NetGalley for review

Nothing says Happy Birthday like summoning the spirits of your dead relatives. 

Alex is a bruja, the most powerful witch in a generation...and she hates magic. At her Deathday celebration, Alex performs a spell to rid herself of her power. But it backfires. Her whole family vanishes into thin air, leaving her alone with Nova, a brujo boy she can't trust. A boy whose intentions are as dark as the strange marks on his skin. 

The only way to get her family back is to travel with Nova to Los Lagos, a land in-between, as dark as Limbo and as strange as Wonderland...

My thoughts:

This story is a reminder of the hero stories of old. Ones where the hero finds strength within and learns who they are and will become. This follows that classic formula but has some important differences. First, it is a mixture of cultures. Not only the Latin culture of the Brujas but also a smidgen of the Santeria culture add depth to the journey of old. This otherworldly adventure is compelling even if the dance steps all have been seen before. Although this sounds predictable (and it is to a degree), there are aspects to the story that twist and surprise. Trust, betrayal, love and disappointment are all a important part of her journey and help Alex decide what kind of person she wants to be and how she wants to treat others. Like Alex, you may not be completely certain who will help or hinder your journey but all aspects you find are important and would not have brought the same results without it. To me, this is a good coming of age story.

My only real niggle with the story has to do with the romance. While some of it seemed predictable, we find that it isn't what we thought. There was one big twist which I enjoyed but at the same time just didn't quite feel. While this aspect of the story fails a bit for me here, it has potential in the stories to come. Alex's story isn't done yet so I may come around to loving the romance in her journey.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. I really loved the cultural take on this story. This is a familiar story with a few surprises you didn't quite see. I highly recommend the book to those that enjoy a hero (heroine in this case) story as well as those that enjoy YA fantasy.

Audiobook Review: Hunt the Moon by Karen Chance

Series: Cassandra Palmer #5
Narrator: Cynthia Holloway
14 hrs. 51 min.
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Published: June, 27, 11
Source: Library/Hoopla

Cassandra Palmer recently defeated a god, which you'd think would buy a girl a little time off. But it doesn't work that way when your job description is Pythia-the world's chief clairvoyant. Cassie is busier than ever, trying to learn about her power, preparing for her upcoming coronation, and figuring out her relationship with the enigmatic sexy master vampire, Mircea. 

But someone doesn't want Cassie to become Pythia, and is willing to go to any lengths to make sure the coronation ceremony never happens- including attacking her mother before Cassie is even born.

My thoughts:

This was a long audio, but since I've had Cynthia Holloway read the last book to me, I knew I would enjoy it. I like her character voices and how she creates a nuance and inflection in their voices.

In this book we learn quite a bit about Cassie's lineage and past. We also learn more about Pritkin and Mircea. We come to find out what past incidences colored the way they see things now. There is a chance for growth in all characters, but we see it the most in Cassie.

This book was also filled with action. Almost too much for me. I felt like I ran a marathon after this book. I wouldn't know how Cassie would have remained sane with one thing happening after another. However, our heroine is sometimes outmatched but she never gives up. It is her tenacity that sees her through... along with some heavy hitter paranormal friends.

I do think I enjoyed most of my running stay with Cassie, especially learning and having a much deeper understanding of the main characters. The ending, however, is not my favorite. While it wasn't the worst cliffie I've had, it was a cliffie nonetheless. :p No! After 14 hrs and you do that to me! It really is more of an introduction to an added arc (I suspect) than not answering lingering questions in this book, but I still hated it. And yes, cannot wait to get to the next book as well. Darn it. :)

I give this book 4 stars. It is a fast paced book that gives you no time to rest. Oh and those looking for some hot action, you will not be disappointed here. Yea, she had a little time to enjoy herself more than once. *waggles eyebrows* I recommend this series to those that love UF.

Of Sand and Storm by Amber Argyle

Series: Fairy Queens #5
Publisher: Smashwords/Indie
Published: 8/17/16
Source: Author for review

Book 5 in the Fairy Queens Series.

By law, any child born in Idara is free, even if that child is born in a slave brothel. But as Cinder grows into a beauty that surpasses even that of her mother and grandmother, she realizes that freedom is only a word. There are other words too, stronger words. Words like betrayal and prison and death. And there are words even stronger than those. Words like courage and family and love.

In the end, if Cinder is to escape the fate of her matriarchs, she'll have to fight for her freedom. Because true freedom is never free.

My thoughts:

I have enjoyed this whole series but always knew I was missing a book. This one is novella length so I know I was only missing a extra character story within this series. I was glad to finally get to read this one and it was about one of my favorite secondary character in Winter's Heir (the last in the series). She was someone who brought Elice out of her shell and also someone who you knew was strong. It was the seamstress, Cinder who had her own tale to tell.

I was not disappointed in this story. I really enjoyed seeing how Cinder took her situation and made the best out of it. Freeborn, but yet still nothing more than a slave, her captors/employers set forth a scheme to entrap her further. Her grandmother, aunt and mother were all considered slaves and either concubines or servants. All were determined that Cinder would not fall into the same lifestyle.

There is intrigue and romance and while Cinder does not do all of her saving, she does find her way and helps a rebellion and risks everything she holds dear to do what is right. She does become the cunning and hero of her own story, even though she does not do it alone. Plus we get to see the germination of an idea which leads us to the stories to come in the series.

I give this book 4 stars. I really loved how this one was put together but I would have loved it longer. Not that it needed it, but I really liked the character of Cinder and would have liked to have followed on her adventure longer. And while I did read it out of order, it did not take anything away from the story. In fact, I saw further into the arc since I read the books after. This is a good one to read in order, since it does build on the book previous and sets us up for the ones to come. I highly recommend the series to those that enjoy fantasy books with devious fae.

Banner from the author Amber Argyle

Winter's Heir by Amber Argyle

Series: Fairy Queens #4
174 p.
Publisher: Indie
Published: 7/20/16
Source: From author for review
Goodreads page for this series order: Fairy Queens Series

A price must be paid.

Elice has left behind the ice and isolation of winter. Before her is the warmth and wonder of summer with all its color and life. Adar, the young man she saved from the sea, is by her side, and his touch sends tendrils of heat where before there was only cold.

But all is not as it seems. There are secrets hidden in the heart of summer. Secrets that could burn Elice to the ground and take the whole world with her. The decades-long war between the fairies of winter and summer has thrown off the balance of nature, leaving the world in its death throes.

Adar believes Elice can stop the destruction—if only she will listen to him. But like the fairies’ bargains, that trust comes with a cost. And the price Elice will pay will tear asunder the boundaries between dreams and family, loyalty and betrayal.

My thoughts:
The cover might look familiar to some. This was first posted for #3, Daughter of Winter (review linked), but had changed right before it was published and I hadn't realized it. So, this is the correct cover for this book and I still like it. :)

Since the book was split into two, we arrive in this book where the last left off. We still find ourselves trying to survive with our companions and some revelations come to light about Elice and Adar. Not going to tell you what they were, but at least one of them took my surprise. I was thinking that the ending was following another path and I have to admit I wasn't too happy. However, a turn was taken and I became more interested in what happened and the ending was quite satisfying.

I give this story 4 stars. I really liked the ending and I'm curious as to what comes next. The epilogue leaves the door cracked open for more stories in this world. While most of her books are connected, you can read this series without reading her other books. I do suggest that you read The Fairy Queens in order since they build on one another. I recommend it to those that enjoy YA fantasy.

Banner from author Amber Argyle

Daughter of Winter by Amber Argyle

Series: Fairy Queens #3
Publisher: Indie
Published: 4/21/16
Source: From author for review

Bargains. Only the truly desperate make them. Only the truly desperate need them. And always, the desperate pay. 

The silence and never-ending dark of winter are all Elice has ever known, for she is the daughter of the Winter Queen. Isolated in a northern queendom with only the seals for company, she dreams of color and music and life. So when a whaling ship crashes just offshore, she doesn't hesitate to rescue the lone survivor, Adar, who quickly becomes her friend. She must keep him hidden from her mother at all costs, for if the Winter Queen discovers him trespassing, she'll kill him.

When her mother reveals just how dark her soul has become, Elice realizes she is as much a prisoner as Adar. To ever know true freedom—to ever become the woman she was meant to be—she must flee with him. But in their flight, she begins to see hints of something more nefarious. The darkness that has taken hold of her mother is spreading, staining the world with its influence.

Unbeknownst to Elice, a bargain was made long ago. A bargain she was born to fulfill.

My thoughts:

I've enjoyed this series for a while now and I love every cover that has come out. This one is no exception. I did have a bit of book amnesia from the previous books, but most of it came back as familiar names were read. This is the book of the Winter Queen's daughter and Ilyeanna has become the cruel queen predicted. Elice, the daughter, still has her humanity in tact but also control over winter. This is her journey into something perhaps powerful or will it lead to enslavement? Either is a possibility and both are hinted at throughout her journey.

The author states that her editors encouraged her to split the book into two. While I understand it, I also think that this would have been better as one journey. The ending leaves one big question behind and it was a threatening twist to the story. One I think the next book will open with and that anticipation will be over. However, we are left with that anticipation so be warned. Despite that aspect of the ending it did not feel like a cliffie and the main adventure Elice took on was completed.

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. While I would have liked a longer story, I do understand why it was split into 2 books. This is a good addition to the series and one that should not be missed. I recommend the book to those that enjoy YA fantasy with a lot of faeries who are more bite than sparkle.

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Series: Throne of Glass #1
404 p.
Published: 8/7/12
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children's
Source: Library

After serving out a year of hard labor in the salt mines of Endovier for her crimes, 18-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien is dragged before the Crown Prince. Prince Dorian offers her her freedom on one condition: she must act as his champion in a competition to find a new royal assassin. 

Her opponents are men-thieves and assassins and warriors from across the empire, each sponsored by a member of the king's council. If she beats her opponents in a series of eliminations, she'll serve the kingdom for four years and then be granted her freedom. Celaena finds her training sessions with the captain of the guard, Westfall, challenging and exhilirating. But she's bored stiff by court life. Things get a little more interesting when the prince starts to show interest in her... but it's the gruff Captain Westfall who seems to understand her best. 

Then one of the other contestants turns up dead... quickly followed by another. Can Celaena figure out who the killer is before she becomes a victim? As the young assassin investigates, her search leads her to discover a greater destiny than she could possibly have imagined.

My thoughts:

I had heard so much about this series that I decided I wanted to try it. I've had such good luck with YA fantasy lately. Off to the library!

The book starts out with Celaena braving unspeakable cruelty and is given a chance to serve as the king's champion in exchange for freedom after 4 years. While this starts out with lots of promise, I have to say that it flagged for me in the middle. I liked all the characters involved (except those you weren't supposed to like). My biggest problem came from Celaena's attitude at court. While it made sense to me that she could easily slip into the role of courtier (assassin... hello!) she didn't. In fact she had a lot of missteps to the point it kind of became unbelievable she was the best of the best. She also started to become very spoiled in her nature in how she started to complain about everything. It was a bit annoying. However, thankfully the whining was interspersed with some adventure and also her compassion for others. I loved that part and it made the middle much better for me. This also set us up for who Celaena really was underneath the assassin exterior at the end. That person I really liked.

My favorite part came toward the end with the tournament at it's pinnacle. The final battle was not a let down but we do not get all the answers. I figured that since this is the first book in the series so you know more learning about herself, her family and her romance will come. I will warn those that there was a love triangle brewing for most of the book but looks like it gets solved in the end... but maybe not permanently. I'm not sure about that, but I can see the possibility of an opening.

I give this book 4 stars. While there were aspects of it that I didn't care for, I'd have to say that there were also parts where I wanted to keep reading even when life told me to put the book down (darn life!). I recommend it to those that enjoy YA fantasy.

Audiobook Review with Crafts: Untamed by A. G. Howard

Series: Splintered #3.5
Narrator: Rebecca Gibel
Unabridged
8 hrs. 43 min.
Publisher: Blackstone Audio
Source: Audiobook Jukebox, and publisher for review.

A post-Ensnared collection of three stories—available in both print and e-versions. 

Alyssa Gardner went down the rabbit hole and took control of her destiny. She survived the battle for Wonderland and the battle for her heart. In this collection of three novellas, join Alyssa and her family as they look back at their memories of Wonderland.

In Six Impossible Things, Alyssa recalls the most precious moments of her life after Ensnared, and the role magic plays in preserving the happiness of those she loves. Alyssa’s mother reminisces about her own time in Wonderland and rescuing the man who would become her husband in The Boy in the Web. And Morpheus delves into Jeb’s memories of the events of Splintered in The Moth in the Mirror, available in print for the first time. 

This collection expands upon Ensnared's epilogue, and includes some deleted scenes to provide a “director’s cut” glimpse into the past and futures of our favorite Splintered characters.

 My thoughts:

This is a collection of stories, The Boy in the Web, is one of them that was already published. They all go together to give us insight into what went on in this series. What we usually crave when we finish a series we hate to see go.

I wasn't enthralled with The Boy in the Web, because it does a bit too much rehashing for me. However, since this one was really placed after the first book, it makes sense to rehash since the background may have not be set for too many people. Even though this was the weakest of the stories, I still enjoyed finding out how Alyssa's mother found her father. It really strengthened their storyline for me.

Six Impossible Things was the strongest for me and gave us what we wanted to know about Alyssa's and Jeb's life after the stories ended. The Moth in the Mirror also does the same for Alyssa and Morpheus. It is everything I wanted to know and I felt satisfied in the telling of these stories. I don't want to spoil anything so that is all I will say about those stories.

Although I love Rebecca Gibel's character vocalizations, I don't love all her narration. I do like it however. It was just a bit too slow for me and putting the speed at 1.25 helped and moved things along at a better pace for me. My only niggle about her narration and would easily get another audiobook read by her.

I give this collection of stories 4 stars. I highly recommend it to those that love the series. I don't recommend listening/reading this one first. This one definitely belongs as an epilogue of sorts.

The Crafts:

I made my dad a duffle bag since he had been needing one for the gym. I started this one with the previous audiobook but finished it with this one. The pattern is by Swoon (afilliate link) and was pretty easy to do. However, it seemed that with everything that went brilliantly... something went wrong. So, he has an extra zipper pocket inside since I put it in the wrong place. Good thing he likes extra pockets. LOL I also lined it with money fabric. I didn't win the powerball so this was the next best thing I could do to give him a bag full of money. Thought it would be funny and it goes with his sense of humor. :D I also have a close up of the piping I did since it was one of the best that I did and I'm not sure when that will happen again. LOL

Be one of us!

Through the Veil by Colleen Halverson

Series: Aisling Chronicles #1
400 p.
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Published: 2/22/16
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review.

Elizabeth Tanner is no Tinkerbell, and her life is no fairy tale. Broke and drowning in student loans, the one thing she wants more than anything is a scholarship from the Trinity Foundation. But after the ancient Irish text she's studying turns out to be more than just a book, she becomes their prisoner instead. And when Trinity reveals Elizabeth is half-Fae, she finds herself at the center of a plot to save the magical races of Ireland from a brutal civil war. 

As Commander of Trinity's elite warriors, Finn O'Connell isn't used to having his authority challenged. He doesn't know whether to punish or protect the infuriating young woman in his custody. When he discovers the Dark Fae want to use Elizabeth's abilities to control the source of all power in the universe, he'll risk everything to help her. 

At the mercy of Trinity and enslaved to the Dark Fae, Elizabeth finds herself alone on the wrong side of an Irish myth thousands of years in the making. Refusing to be a pawn in their game, Elizabeth has to fight her way back to the man she loves, but to do so, she must wage her own war against the magic that binds her.

My thoughts:

I really liked the worldbuilding in this story. It goes from modern day America, to the fae realm to modern day Ireland. You have political in nature bad guys that aren't afraid of being murderous. You also have just plain ol' murderous bullies as well. As far as the good guys, those are easy to spot since they take the well being of people who are outside of themselves and their group as a whole. The lines are well drawn but it really enhances the story for me and it doesn't really make anything easier for Elizabeth, our heroine in this tale.

Elizabeth knows nothing of her origins but did not have an easy life. She is thrown into this world in a violent way but does not falter and, in fact, become the heroine, the damsel that saves herself. Yes, she had help, but she proved that she was strong not only in mind, but in spirit and body.

My biggest niggle in the whole story was the romance between Elizabeth and Finn. I could understand the attraction, but I did not really fall in love with this couple until the last part of the book. Then even with an asshat move on Finn's part, I enjoyed how Elizabeth confirmed their love in the end.

The book is complete, but leaves a door wide open for the next installment. I give this book 3 stars. It really got going in the last half of the book where I really became enamored with the story. I loved the secondary characters and I do want to continue the series as the books come out. I recommend it to those that enjoy adult PNR.

Revenge and the Wild by Michelle Modesto

Standalone
384 p.
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Published: 2/2/16
Source: Edelweiss and Publisher for review

The two-bit town of Rogue City is a lawless place, full of dark magic and saloon brawls, monsters and six-shooters. But it’s perfect for seventeen-year-old Westie, the notorious adopted daughter of local inventor Nigel Butler. 

Westie was only a child when she lost her arm and her family to cannibals on the wagon trail. Nine years later, Westie may seem fearsome with her foul-mouthed tough exterior and the powerful mechanical arm built for her by Nigel, but the memory of her past still haunts her. She’s determined to make the killers pay for their crimes—and there’s nothing to stop her except her own reckless ways. 

But Westie’s search ceases when a wealthy family comes to town looking to invest in Nigel’s latest invention, a machine that can harvest magic from gold—which Rogue City desperately needs as the magic wards that surround the city start to fail. There’s only one problem: the investors look exactly like the family who murdered Westie’s kin. With the help of Nigel’s handsome but scarred young assistant, Alistair, Westie sets out to prove their guilt. But if she’s not careful, her desire for revenge could cost her the family she has now.

My thoughts:

I had fun with this mash up of western, magic, paranormal, and steampunk. It seems like a lot to thrown in together but here it works. In this one we follow Westie who is a wild girl that lost her family to cannibals. She has a new home now with wildly different kind of people and a mechanical arm. She also has a mouth on her so you know I liked this character. She does cause a lot of problems because she is impulsive, but at least she does try to take responsibility for what damage she wrought.

The mystery was interesting but I didn't like how her new family reacted to some revelations on her part. I don't want to go into what they were because it would be too spoilerish but it just didn't quite jive with me in how otherwise supportive her family was about everything else. I did like the romance between Westie and Alistair. I loved Alley and how he helped Westie and how he loved her. There was a aw moment for them in there for romance lovers. ;) The ending was not as surprising as I think it meant to be but was still enjoyable. I didn't love how it ended but I didn't hate it either. There were also small things that I thought were important which were left out. Like who was spying on Westie and Alistair? I only mention this one specifically since it really doesn't give anything away. This was mentioned as if it was important but yet just didn't give us any clues or answers to what was going on. There was also another incident which I cannot go into but had the same problems. Nothing big but it bothered me a bit. I'm guessing it was the same person, but no answers for those small niggles.

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I did enjoy it and I liked Westie. I think this could have been developed into a series and I think it would have been even better as such. I think then not having small questions go unanswered (not the ones I mentioned, but a few others... small but possibly important) wouldn't have bothered me as much. I do recommend it to those that love mash ups of genres with a good dose of fun.

Shadow Touched (1-4) by Erin Kellison

Series: Shadow Touched #1-4
336 p.
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Published: 1/5/16
Source: From author and NetGalley for review

*Shadow Touched is Ellie and Cam's complete story, previously released as Shadow Touch, Shadow Play and Shadow Hunt, ending in the thrilling conclusion, the previously unreleased Shadow Burn. 

A darkness looms over humankind, lurks in mirrors, blurs boundaries—a twilight world ruled by powerful mage Houses... 

It is bleeding into our world, bringing with it banshees, wraiths, fae from the twisting forests of Twilight. But Eleanor Russo’s problem is a very different kind of phenomenon. Her dark mirror image is a wild thing, willfully seducing the very man Ellie hoped could help her. 

Dr. Cam Kalamos has devoted his career to exploring the boundaries between this world and Twilight. But nothing could prepare him for the mischief and mayhem of a soul split in two. 

As Ellie and Cam explore their deepest desires and barely escape with their lives, there is only one certainty: Trusting in shadows is a dangerous game.

I think that this series is best when you have already read the Shadow series first so it really establishes the world for you. Shadow Touched series is really an offshoot of the Shadow series and I'm thinking you probably want me to stop saying "shadow" about now. ;) Seriously though, the first series should not be missed and really sets you up for this book. This one has all the books of the offshoot including the latest book, Shadow Burn. I did read the first 2 books previously (review for those here ) but reread them since it had been awhile. These are fun novella length stories so you should easily go from one book to the next. Plus, they are all here in one book! WIN!

It was easy for me to slip back into this world. I had forgotten much of the first book but quickly caught up. I was captivated with the last 2 stories I hadn't read. This is Ellie and Cam full story and even though the books are short, they pack a full punch. You are not wanting for a longer book to fill in the storyline. You may want one longer only so you can stay in this world, but not needing more plot or answers. I also liked how in the end some of the roles are a bit reversed with our couple and more insight into the other is gained. The last story ends in a satisfying way and I'm only sad because it was so complete we probably won't get more of this couple

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. It is a fun book which needs to be read by Shadow fans. You can dive in without reading the first series but I highly recommend that series so don't skip it. PNR and UF fans should also like this adult series.

Worlds of Ink and Shadow by Lena Coakley

Standalone
352 p.
Publisher: Amulet Books
Published: 1/5/16
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

Charlotte, Branwell, Emily, and Anne. The Brontë siblings have always been inseparable. After all, nothing can bond four siblings quite like life in an isolated parsonage out on the moors. Their vivid imaginations lend them escape from their strict upbringing, actually transporting them into their created worlds: the glittering Verdopolis and the romantic and melancholy Gondal. But at what price? As Branwell begins to slip into madness and the sisters feel their real lives slipping away, they must weigh the cost of their powerful imaginations, even as their characters—the brooding Rogue and dashing Duke of Zamorna—refuse to let them go. 

Gorgeously written and based on the Brontës’ juvenilia, Worlds of Ink & Shadow brings to life one of history’s most celebrated literary families.

My thoughts:

One of my favorite stories is Jane Eyre. So, of course, this one caught my attention. Not only do I love the cover, but I loved the idea. I was not disappointed.

The world is a mash up of imagination, story, fae world and reality. We are drawn into each of these worlds by all 4 of the Brontë siblings. As the stories intwine so do the siblings. Each having their own personality but yet complimenting the other in reality and in the imaginative worlds. Their bonds will be tested in this adventure but all come to the same conclusion in the end. There is no cliffie and this is a self contained novel. Sometimes these things can be so refreshing.

My only real complaint was the father. There was something more to him and we only had hints of what he knew. Did he know the extent of what went on in the household or did he only guess. I would have loved to see more interaction with the father since he seemed like an important character and yet still lived on the fringe of the story.

I give this book 4 stars. I really enjoyed my time here and seeing how the characters of Jane Eyre developed in Charlotte's imagination. I think that is what I was looking for in this book and I received what I wanted. I recommend it to those that enjoy YA fantasy.

Audiobook Review with Crafts: Curse the Dawn by Karen Chance

Series: Cassandra Palmer #4
Narrator: Cynthia Holloway
14 hrs. 27 min.
Unabridged
Publisher: Tantor Media
Published: 6/30/10
Source: Hoopla/Library

Cassandra Palmer may be the all-powerful Pythia now, but that doesn't mean people have stopped trying to kill her. Most of the supernatural power players don't want independent-minded Cassie as chief clairvoyant---and they'll stop at nothing to see her six feet under. 

The Vampire Senate does support Cassie in her position, but their protection comes with a price: an alliance with the sexy master vampire Mircea, who has claimed Cassie as his own. 

But even the vampires will have trouble keeping Cassie alive now that the self-styled god Apollo, the source of the Pythia's power, has it in for her in a big way. To save her life---and the world---Cassie's going to have to face down her creator once and for all.

My thoughts:

I have been seeing people pick this series back up and I have missed it. I've read the others so I thought it might be time to try it on audio. I was not disappointed and I enjoyed Cynthia Holloway's voice throughout the story. I hope she narrates the rest of the series.

The book felt a bit uneven to me with the high action and then the sudden lulls. It still kept my attention as the others in the series but it doesn't progress too much on the Pythia problem Cassie is having. It does progress but just barely. There is still a love triangle and nothing is terribly clear there by the end of the book either, but small advances were made with both Mircea and Pritkin. Still not sure if there will be a clear winner, but both are alpha males even if the Pythia has no problems courting both.

I give this audio 4 stars. It is another fun addition to the series and I cannot wait to continue it. I seem to always want more after finishing a Cassandra Palmer book and it was no different here. I enjoyed it on audio and may continue it that way with the rest of the books. I recommend it to those who enjoy UF and humor.

The Craftiness: 

I made gifts when I listened to the book. I made 4 wristlets (Caroline by Swoon Patterns). 3 of them are identical and have a drum pattern on the outside. It is silk from a obi. The 3 girls I made them for all play the drums and I thought it was perfect for them. You have no idea how hard it is to find drum fabric. :)

The other one is for someone who loves hearts. I thought I'd do a simple embroidery pattern on the front. I put card and bill holders on the inside (think wallet) of all of them. No, none of them read the blog so they shouldn't know they are getting a wristlet. *evil laugh* :)

The last one was described in my post on Monday. Not my fave but things happen and hopefully someone will love this misfit wristlet. :) Just go HERE if you need to find out more and possibly win the poor unfortunate bag.

Of Ice and Snow by Amber Argyle

Series: Fairy Queens #0.5
133 p.
Publisher: Starling Publishing
Published: 9/1/15
Source: From author for review

Otec thought destiny forgot him… 

The middle child of the clanchief, Otec is the overlooked son in an overflowing house. He dreams of escape and adventure, so when a mysterious stranger offers both, he doesn’t need persuading. But when his faraway village comes under attack, Otec will do anything to save the people he loves. Cut off from his nation, he must trust a foreign woman with a dubious past as they race to save his clan. But nothing is what it seems, and Otec may have to trust his enemy if he is to become the leader he was never meant to be. 

Destiny is not always kind.

My thoughts:

I've been enjoying the Fairy Queen series. This one is about Ilyenna's parents the main character of the first book. Since this is a prequel, you don't even need to know that fact if you haven't read the other books. She doesn't make an appearance in this book, but it is nice to keep in mind for those that have read the series.

I really liked Otec and Matka the main characters. There is a lot of growth for both characters in such a short book. The book is also packed with action and war. The fae in this book make an important appearance but are not the main focus of this book. I think this book establishes how this clan cultivated loyalty and sets the background for the Snow Queen. It isn't necessary to the overall series, but to a fan it is a great addition. It reads as the others do, like a good engaging fantasy.

I give this book 4 stars. I recommend it to those that are already enjoying the series as well as those that like YA Fantasy.