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: The Library of Light and Shadow by M.J. Rose

Series: Daughters of La Lune #3
Unabridged
Published: July 18, 17
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Narrator: Sherry Baines
Length: 13 hrs. 17 min.
Source: Hoopla/Library

In the wake of a dark and brutal World War, the glitz and glamour of 1925 Manhattan shine like a beacon for the high society set, which is desperate to keep their gaze firmly fixed to the future. But Delphine Duplessi sees more than most. At a time in her career when she could easily be unknown and penniless, like so many of her classmates from L’École de Beaux Arts, in America she has gained notoriety for her stunning “shadow portraits” that frequently expose her subjects’ most scandalous secrets—for better or for worse. Most nights Delphine doesn’t mind that her gift has become mere entertainment—a party trick—for the fashionable crowd. Though her ancestor La Lune, the legendary sixteenth-century courtesan and—like Delphine—a witch, might have thought differently.

Then, on a snowy night in February, in a penthouse high above Fifth Avenue, Delphine’s mystical talent leads to a tragedy between two brothers. Horrified, she renounces her gift.

Devastated and disconsolate, Delphine returns to her old life in the south of France where Picasso, Matisse, and the Fitzgeralds are summering. There, Delphine is thrust into recapturing the past. First by her charismatic twin brother and business manager Sebastian in his attempts to cajole her back to work and into co-dependence, then by the world famous opera singer Emma Calvé, who is obsessed with the centuries-old Book of Abraham, written by the fourteenth-century alchemist Nicolas Flamel. And finally by her ex-lover Mathieu, who is determined to lure her back into his arms, unaware of the danger that had led Delphine to flee Paris for New York five years before.

My thoughts:

I read the other 2 books in the series (reviews HERE) but for some reason I missed this one. Luckily my library had this book available so I decided that now was the time to dive back into this world. I was glad I did and this one was filled with legendary artists and lots of color to temper the darkness within the tale.

The side story of Nicolas Flamel mentioned in the blurb was just a way of getting Delphine back into her own story, one she couldn't run from no matter how she tried, but it felt more important. Unfortunately it wasn't a part of Delphine's journey and that saddened me. Perhaps we will get that story next?

Without revealing too much I think those who enjoy romance with a bit of magic will enjoy this story. The romance isn't without tragedy and a bit of drama but all of it is well placed and designed for our couple (especially Delphine) to learn and be ready for the next phase of their lives.

The narration by Sherry Baines was good but there was little separation between characters and her females all sounded roughly the same. It did not hinder my enjoyment of the book but I thought I'd mention it.

I give the book 4 stars. It is a good addition to the series and I hope we get more as I enjoy following this family though their trials and finding true love.

🎨

Audiobook Review: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Standalone
Unabridged
Published: Dec. 26, 04
Publisher: HarperAudio
Narrator: Jeremy Irons
Length: 4 hrs.
Source: Hoopla/Library

Paulo Coelho's masterpiece tells the mystical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure. His quest will lead him to riches far different—and far more satisfying—than he ever imagined. Santiago's journey teaches us about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, of recognizing opportunity and learning to read the omens strewn along life's path, and, most importantly, to follow our dreams.

My thoughts:

If you have read anything by Joseph Campbell then you have heard of the typical heroes journey which many books follow in one way or another and this book is a prime example of this journey. Santiago is questing to find a treasure which is both external and internal. The story also teaches how to listen to your self and to recognize opportunities leading to your personal treasure. It does it in a non preachy way. It also teaches that sometimes losses can be in itself a win and that the road to your treasure is not an easy one, but that life will help you on your journey if you recognize the signs.

I think this is why it has spoken to a lot of people when it was published. My favorite part is knowing that the road is not smooth. That not everything goes perfectly your way just because you are on your journey.

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I did enjoy it but it didn't quite capture me the way it has other readers. The journey is a bit uneven but that may be due to translation of the book. Still a worthwhile read. I think that Jeremy Irons does an excellent job narrating and his voice really pulls you though the quest. I would definitely listen to another book by this actor.

💎

Protect the Prince by Jennifer Estep

Series: Crown of Shards #2
448 p.
Publisher: Harper Voyager
Published: July 2, 2019
Source: Edelweiss

First, Evie has to deal with a court full of arrogant, demanding nobles, all of whom want to get their greedy hands on her crown. As if that wasn’t bad enough, an assassin tries to kill Evie in her own throne room. 

Despite the dangers, Evie goes ahead with a scheduled trip to the neighboring kingdom of Andvari in order to secure a desperately needed alliance. But complicating matters is the stubborn Andvarian king, who wants to punish Evie for the deaths of his countrymen during the Seven Spire massacre. 

But dark forces are at work inside the Andvarian palace, and Evie soon realizes that no one is safe. Worse, Evie’s immunity to magic starts acting in strange, unexpected ways, which makes her wonder whether she is truly strong enough to be a Winter Queen. 

But Evie’s magic, life, and crown aren’t the only things in danger—so is her heart, thanks to Lucas Sullivan, the Andvarian king’s bastard son and Evie’s . . . well, Evie isn’t quite sure what Sullivan is to her. 

Only one thing is certain—protecting a prince might be even harder than killing a queen…

My thoughts:

I loved the first book and I couldn't wait to get to this one. I was not disappointed and loved this book too. Also note that  I will try to make sure I don't spoil anything... which will be hard.

The book picks up right after the last book and it is filled with lots of action. Evie is no wilting royal and protects herself well (both mentally and physically) and has a great mind for sussing out mystery. There is a mystery in the book which was unfortunately not hard to figure it out, however, this really wasn't an issue as it was only a part of the whole story and it all fits together so well. In other words, it was a well executed mystery despite it's ease.

I will also say that if you are reluctant to start a fantasy but really enjoy UF, give this series a try. It feels more UF and isn't a heavy handed book at all. Also, for those wanting romance, there IS romance in the book even though it was frustrating for most of the book. Still loved how it turned out for at least 2 couples. I also suggest you read the first book as these really do need to be read in order like most fantasy.

I give this book 5 stars and I really love these characters (which you will find more to love) and how Evie's brain works. I can't wait for the next installment.

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.

🌳

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!

🐺

Kill the Queen by Jennifer Estep

Series: Crown of Shards #1
480 p.
Publisher: Harper Voyager
Published: Oct. 2, 2018
Source: From author for review

Gladiator meets Game of Thrones: a royal woman becomes a skilled warrior to destroy her murderous cousin, avenge her family, and save her kingdom in this first entry in a dazzling fantasy epic from the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Elemental Assassin series—an enthralling tale that combines magic, murder, intrigue, adventure, and a hint of romance. 

In a realm where one’s magical power determines one’s worth, Lady Everleigh’s lack of obvious ability relegates her to the shadows of the royal court of Bellona, a kingdom steeped in gladiator tradition. Seventeenth in line for the throne, Evie is nothing more than a ceremonial fixture, overlooked and mostly forgotten. 

But dark forces are at work inside the palace. When her cousin Vasilia, the crown princess, assassinates her mother the queen and takes the throne by force, Evie is also attacked, along with the rest of the royal family. Luckily for Evie, her secret immunity to magic helps her escape the massacre. 

Forced into hiding to survive, she falls in with a gladiator troupe. Though they use their talents to entertain and amuse the masses, the gladiators are actually highly trained warriors skilled in the art of war, especially Lucas Sullivan, a powerful magier with secrets of his own. Uncertain of her future—or if she even has one—Evie begins training with the troupe until she can decide her next move. 

But as the bloodthirsty Vasilia exerts her power, pushing Bellona to the brink of war, Evie’s fate becomes clear: she must become a fearsome gladiator herself . . . and kill the queen.

My thoughts:

This book came to me after a long reading slump so I admit I was a bit worried that I would have trouble really getting into the book. Honestly I had nothing to worry about... in fact I had a hard time putting this book down. It is also a great book to get into fantasy. A lot of the YA fantasy lately has really made the fantasy genre accessible to those that worried that it was just too heavy handed for them. However, this didn't solve the problem if you just didn't like YA. This book is the best of both worlds. It is accessible as the YA fantasy but the main characters are adult.

I also loved the characters in how they grew throughout the book. Evie, our protagonist, is young but she is an adult and one that is open to change and hardship. She might complain at first but she quickly learns that survival is only part of her journey. She also learns that the inane skills she learned as being the court stand-in surprisingly work to her advantage and make herself valuable. I really love how those things worked into her survival and it also felt very natural.

I think my only complaint is that I would like to have really gotten to know a bit more about this world. While there is enough to tell this tale it also seems like so many of the realms called out to me and I just wanted to know more. However, this might be a good thing as most people tend to shy away from fantasy that is mostly worldbuilding and little storytelling. This feels more like a UF story where we get more of the worldbuilding as the story progresses. In fact a lot of it feels a bit more UF than high fantasy but since I love UF it really works for me.

I don't want to say too much as I fear I would spoil the book but I do give it 5 stars. I will say again that this is the fantasy I had been waiting to read; the accessibility of YA fantasy but has adult characters. I think this is a great book for those that want to try the fantasy genre.

👑

Awaken the Darkness by Dianne Duvall

Series: Immortal Guardians #8
260 p.
Publisher: Author/Indie
Published: July 10, 2018
Source: From author for review

He awakens encapsulated in dirt with no knowledge of how he came to be there. Riddled with injuries, he can remember neither his past nor who he is. Nor can he remember what he is. But surely no mortal man could survive being buried deep beneath the earth. All he knows with certainty is that the soothing voice and presence of the woman moving around above enables him to endure the agony of his wounds. And he will do whatever it takes to be with her.

When Susan first sees the old two-story house for sale, such warmth and longing fill her that—against all reason—she makes an offer. It will take years of hard work and money she frankly doesn’t have to fix up the place. So she can’t explain why she bought it. She also can’t explain what compels her to spend hours one night, digging in the basement until she unearths a man. A man who still lives and breathes despite having been buried alive. A man whose intense brown eyes glow amber with pain, declaring him far more than ordinary. Susan knows she should keep her distance. He has no memory and possesses gifts that would make most fear him. But as the two work together to unravel the mystery of his past, she finds herself drawn in by his teasing nature and tender touch. So much so that she loses her heart to him even as they find themselves hunted by unknown enemies who are ruthless in their quest to capture them.

My thoughts:

This is a fun PNR/UF that I have enjoyed since the first book. If you haven't read them, you are missing out on some laughs, adventure and romance. I do suggest starting with the first book in the series to really get to know all the characters and it also helps to make sense of the overall series arc.

In this book we go a bit back in time to an incident that hurt the guardians. This is Stanislav's story and what happened to him during the incident and 2 years later. Stan is a man of honor and it shows throughout his story even when he manipulates to survive. He finds his equal and while she doesn't have his strength, she is no wilting flower. I liked how these two worked together and it was easy to believe the romance. I loved also how both waited until he was healed to further their relationship. My only complaint would be that I would have liked a reunion scene with Jax (you'll see who that is. when you read it... LOL) but I still really loved the epilogue which made it a perfect end to the story. Still, I wouldn't have minded a few hundred more pages... but then I always want more of a story I'm enjoying.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. It had been too long since I was back in this world and every time I visit I enjoy myself. If you are looking for a humorous romance with some kick ass adventure, I do suggest this whole series.

💞

There is a few more days to enter for the prize pack! Just go HERE for the post and how to enter.

Author Guest Post and Giveaway: Dianne Duvall's Immortal Guardian Series

Favorite Quotes from the Immortal Guardians Series 

Hello! Thanks so much for joining me. I’m happy to be here today, celebrating the release of AWAKEN THE DARKNESS. If you like powerful preternatural heroes, strong heroines, action scenes that will keep you flipping pages well past your bedtime, and romance that is alternately steamy and sweet and laced with humor, then I think you’ll enjoy this book. 

To whet your appetite for Aidan and Dana’s story and to give you a glimpse of what you’ll find in my Immortal Guardians series if you’re new to it (don’t worry—each book can be read as a stand-alone, you’ll just know more about the secondary characters if you read them in order), I thought I would list my Top 10 Favorite Quotes from the Immortal Guardians Series: 

10 

“You stabbed me in the ass?” 

—Bastien, DARKNESS DAWNS 

9 

“What did you think I would do? Ask her if I could braid her hair after we gave each other facials and painted our toenails?” 

—Marcus, NIGHT REIGNS 

8 

“Is this going to get weird? Like kinky weird?” 

—John, IN STILL DARKNESS 

7 

“I did NOT need to see that. I mean I REALLY did not need to see that. Jenny, honey, grab one of my daggers and poke out both my eyes.” 

—Richart, NIGHT UNBOUND 

6 

“I’m not antisocial. I just want to be left alone.” 

—Roland, DARKNESS DAWNS 

5 

“All right. All right. Settle down. We’re all glad Sarah stabbed Bastien in the ass.” 

—Seth, PHANTOM SHADOWS 

4 

Ooh. That’s so cool. Even in your thoughts, your voice deepens and gets all growly when you’re turned on. Before he could respond, she made a sound of impatience. Damn it. Now I’m turned on. 

—Susan, AWAKEN THE DARKNESS 

3 

“I’ll blush as soon as the desire to decapitate you has passed.” 

—Lisette, NIGHT UNBOUND 

2 

“Well . . . if you didn’t want me to tranq anyone, you shouldn’t have given me the damned gun.” 

—Dana, BLADE OF DARKNESS 

1 

“Great. There goes our security deposit.” 

—Sean, DARKNESS RISES 

I have many other favorites, of course, but these are at the top of the list. :-) 

For fans of the series: Do you have a favorite Immortal Guardians quote that isn’t mentioned here? 

For readers who are new to the series: Which of these did you like the best?

Awaken the Darkness 
(Immortal Guardians #8)
by Dianne Duvall 
Kindle Edition, 414 pages
Publication: July 10th 2018 by Dianne Duvall

Return to the "utterly addictive" (RT Book Reviews), "fast-paced and humorous" (Publishers Weekly) world of New York Times bestselling author Dianne Duvall's Immortal Guardians.  

He awakens encapsulated in dirt with no knowledge of how he came to be there. Riddled with injuries, he can remember neither his past nor who he is. Nor can he remember what he is. But surely no mortal man could survive being buried deep beneath the earth. All he knows with certainty is that the soothing voice and presence of the woman moving around above enables him to endure the agony of his wounds. And he will do whatever it takes to be with her.

When Susan first sees the old two-story house for sale, such warmth and longing fill her that—against all reason—she makes an offer. It will take years of hard work and money she frankly doesn’t have to fix up the place. So she can’t explain why she bought it. She also can’t explain what compels her to spend hours one night, digging in the basement until she unearths a man. A man who still lives and breathes despite having been buried alive. A man whose intense brown eyes glow amber with pain, declaring him far more than ordinary. Susan knows she should keep her distance. He has no memory and possesses gifts that would make most fear him. But as the two work together to unravel the mystery of his past, she finds herself drawn in by his teasing nature and tender touch. So much so that she loses her heart to him even as they find themselves hunted by unknown enemies who are ruthless in their quest to capture them.

Kindle | Nook | iBooks | Kobo

 Don't miss a heart-pounding moment of Dianne Duvall's "utterly addictive" Immortal Guardians series!

Darkness Dawns (Immortal Guardians, #1)

Night Reigns (Immortal Guardians, #2)

Phantom Shadows (Immortal Guardians, #3)

In Still Darkness (Immortal Guardians, #3.5)

Darkness Rises (Immortal Guardians, #4)

Night Unbound (Immortal Guardians, #5)

Phantom Embrace (Immortal Guardians, #5.5)

Shadows Strike (Immortal Guardians, #6)

Blade of Darkness (Immortal Guardians Book 7) 

Dianne Duvall is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of the Immortal Guardians series and The Gifted Ones series. Reviewers have called Dianne's books "fast-paced and humorous" (Publishers Weekly), "utterly addictive" (RT Book Reviews), "extraordinary" (Long and Short Reviews), and"wonderfully imaginative" (The Romance Reviews). Her books have twice been nominated for RT Reviewers' Choice Awards and are routinely deemed Top Picks by RT Book Reviews, The Romance Reviews,and/or Night Owl Reviews.  

Dianne loves all things creative. When she isn't writing, Dianne is active in the independent film industry and has even appeared on-screen, crawling out of a moonlit grave and wielding a machete like some of the vampires she creates in her books. 

For the latest news on upcoming releases, contests, and more, please visit DianneDuvall.com. You can also find Dianne online . . .

Blog | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Pinterest | Goodreads | Google Plus 

(1) $50 Amazon Gift Card

(1) $25 Amazon Gift Card 

(1) Immortal Guardians Prize pack

Venom in the Veins by Jennifer Estep

Series: Elemental Assassin #17
267 p.
Publisher: Author/Indie
Published: 6/12/18
Source: from author for review

Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/2t0A6Rk

Blood might be thicker than water, but venom is stronger than just about anything… 

It was supposed to be a nice, quiet, simple dinner with friends—but nothing is ever nice, quiet, or simple when you’re Gin Blanco, the Spider, notorious assassin and current queen of the Ashland underworld. 

This time around, someone seems to be targeting Stuart Mosley, the president of First Trust bank. Lots of people have grudges against Mosley, but the more I investigate, the more Mosley’s problems seem to be connected to some of my own, especially when it comes to the Circle, the evil, shadowy group that is secretly responsible for much of the crime and corruption in Ashland. 

But when another blast from my dark and deadly past as the Spider comes to light, I wonder if I’ll be able to survive this dangerous new enemy, who has a burning thirst for revenge that will only be satisfied with one thing: my death. 

Note: The title of this book has been changed from Cold Sting to Venom in the Veins.

My thoughts:

Another episode in Gin's life and I still enjoy these books. There is a familiar ring to most of these stories and for me, it is like coming back to old friends and going on a new adventure where Gin kicks some arse. While we don't quite move too much on the latest overall arc in this novel we do get a bit further glimpse into what is going on and it also made me even more curious about Hugh Tucker and how he fits into Gin's past, present and possible future (although how far into that future is yet to be seen). It seems like we keep getting hints on if he is a bad guy or a good guy and the jury is still out. It is frustrating in a good way as he rides the line between good and evil perfectly. I don't think I'd like it if all my answers came at once.

As with the other books the secondary characters are as interesting as Gin and we get to have more interaction with Mosley, Finn's boss, and we get to see how he has become more part of Gin's growing family. Without giving too much away, we see how Gin ends up not just protecting Mosley but how his past has been intertwined with her own.

I give this book 4 stars. It is another good addition to the series which I adore and I anxiously await the next book. I know I'm a bit light on details, but this is a series I think you need to experience yourself and I don't want to spoil any of it. Also, don't let 17 books scare you. A good book goes fast and you won't have to wait for the next one to come out. In some ways that makes me envious as I am now wanting the next book and I have to wait.

☀

Anthology: Mad Hatters and March Hares

336 p.
Anthology
Edited by Ellen Datlow
Publisher: Tor Books
Source: From publisher for review
Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/2Jkufgf

From master anthologist Ellen Datlow comes an all-original of weird tales inspired by the strangeness of Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" and "Through the Looking-Glass" and "What Alice Found There". 

Between the hallucinogenic, weird, imaginative wordplay and the brilliant mathematical puzzles and social satire, Alice has been read, enjoyed, and savored by every generation since its publication. Datlow asked eighteen of the most brilliant and acclaimed writers working today to dream up stories inspired by all the strange events and surreal characters found in Wonderland. 

Featuring stories and poems from Seanan McGuire, Catherynne M. Valente, Delia Sherman, Genevieve Valentine, Priya Sharma, Stephen Graham Jones, Richard Bowes, Jeffrey Ford, Angela Slatter, Andy Duncan, C.S.E. Cooney, Matthew Kressel, Kris Dikeman, Jane Yolen, Kaaron Warren, Ysbeau Wilce, and Katherine Vaz.

My thoughts:

As with most anthologies this was a mixed bag of captivating stories and some that I skimmed. I do think you will recognize some of the authors like Seanan McGuire (and that story was so good!) and find some new ones to check out. There is also some poetry for those that enjoy it (not too much for those that don't). Some of these stories really transported me into the world and I will warn you that much of it is dark and some ventured into horror. I'm not surprised as the original work really had a darkness to it and some of the authors expounded on it. I really enjoyed how some of these stories were turned on it's ear and you found yourself with logical explanations to the illogical. Most though fully immersed itself into wonderland or just outside of it and all of it will make you mad as a hatter in the end of it. Really that is a good thing... LOL

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. This is a book I do think I'll reread and I do know that there were a couple of stories I wish were expounded into full series. I don't want to say which of those I enjoyed the most as I do think you need to explore this book as I did... knowing it would be fantastical and dark but not knowing which direction it would take.

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The Eterna Solution by Leanna Renee Hieber

Series: Eterna Files #3

384 p.

Published: 11/14/17
Publisher: Tor Books

Source: Publisher for review
Amazon Affiliate Link: http://amzn.to/2AVJtUr

The exciting conclusion to a sumptuous gaslamp fantasy series 

Leanna Renee Hieber brings Victorian London and New York to life and fills both cities with ghosts and monsters. Two groups of paranormally talented investigators discover that the Eterna compound—thought to be the key to immortality—is, instead, a powerful protective charm. That protection is sorely needed, for both England and the U.S. are under attack by dark forces.

Having vanquished the demonic pretender to the British throne, the now-united forces of the Eterna Commission and the Omega Department reach America ready to take on a new menace. But like the United States itself, this evil is rapidly spreading from sea to shining sea. Will the new magic our heroes have discovered be strong enough to defeat it? 

With its blend of Victorian details, complex plots, and compelling characters, Hieber's fascinating historical fantasy continues to earn critical acclaim and has a dedicated readership.

My thoughts:

It had been a while since I read the last book, but it didn't take me long to remember what had gone on and I wasn't lost. I also have to say that this book really has me enjoying this series more. I have liked it but not quite loved the books before but I really enjoyed this volume.

I liked how all the characters had come together in this one and I do think it shined because of all the various characters. I had not really felt that the romance of Clara and Bishop made much sense to me before (I liked her previous romance too much and it interfered, I admit) but I think I finally feel as if they belong together. I also enjoyed the other couples as well, but this was my main focus. 

The villain is formidable as the last one and it also all connects together. There are some horrors to be aware of for the squeamish but the book is more of an alternate historical fantasy and not horror so it shouldn't be too hard to handle. 

I give this book 4 stars. It is my favorite in the trilogy and the one that was the easiest to really get lost in. It is a good book for those looking for strong and intelligent women who solve paranormal crime.

🔥

Into the Drowning Deep by Mira Grant

Series: Rolling in the Deep #1
439 p.
Published: 11/14/17
Publisher: Orbit
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

Seven years ago, the Atargatis set off on a voyage to the Mariana Trench to film a “mockumentary” bringing to life ancient sea creatures of legend. It was lost at sea with all hands. Some have called it a hoax; others have called it a maritime tragedy. 

Now, a new crew has been assembled. But this time they’re not out to entertain. Some seek to validate their life’s work. Some seek the greatest hunt of all. Some seek the truth. But for the ambitious young scientist Victoria Stewart this is a voyage to uncover the fate of the sister she lost. 

Whatever the truth may be, it will only be found below the waves. 

But the secrets of the deep come with a price.

My thoughts:

I love mermaid tales. Not all admittedly have appealed to me but this one really peaked my interest. It is horror so no singing red haired girl longing for legs (although that original Grimm tale could also be horror).  It also spoke a lot to the horror of what humans have done to the ecosystem. Now this isn't a book on questioning who is the villain in this tale, as the mermaids were presented as nothing but killers... but there is an opening and this theme may come into play in later books. There is also a working knowledge of science and even the holes in biological science that has yet to be filled. This lent the book a realistic feel and you could believe that these monsters could exist.

While this is a horror tale, those who like romance will get a taste of it, but only a taste. We tend to be more engaged in why they came aboard and how they change as things start happening. The horror of what the sirens (mermaids) wrought take center stage and any more romance would have muddied the waters... so to speak. There is an opening for further romance and I think it may happen more as the series progresses.

We also journey in this tale through book excerpts from the experts on the voyage as well as diary quotes and other mediums so the tale gets broken up a bit but it enhances the peril these voyagers found themselves. This also made the tale feel unique as well.

I give this book 4 stars. If you are looking for a good horror tale, I do highly recommend this book. While the book falters a bit in the end for me, it still feels complete with open threads to be explored as we learn more about the sirens of the deep. I also really appreciated how the science was used successfully in this book.

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