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.

🐇

Audiobook Review: Tales from the Archives: Vol. 1

Series: The Official Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Anthology
Volume 1
Collection by Philippa Ballentine and Tee Morris
Free Podcast at iTunes

The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences has many forgotten stories in its Archives. Stories of madcap adventures in all corners of the Empire, dark doings in hidden places, and mysterious devices and artifacts that the everyday citizen should never become aware of for fear it would quite undo their minds. 

Archivist to the Ministry, Eliza D Braun (recently and unwillingly reassigned to the Archives) and Wellington Thornhill Books (recently and unwillingly assigned Eliza D. Braun) have selected some cases they feel the public is ready for. 

The Evil that Befell Sampson by Pip Ballantine- Eliza D Braun is a young field agent in the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences (South Pacific Branch) when she is asked by New Zealand’s preeminent suffragist to investigate some strange goings within the organisation. She cannot possibly imagination that this little case will alter her entire life and thrust her into a world barely prepared for her. 

Dust on the Davenport by O M Grey – Agent Simon R. Boswell, still considered the green agent of the Ministry, takes on his own a supposed haunting in Islington. Hauntings tend to be nothing too serious for agents specializing in the unexplained; but for Simon, this case supplies surprises of all kinds, around every corner… 

The Astonishing Amulet of Amenartas by Nathan Lowell- Agent Heathcliff Durham finds himself crisscrossing Africa, looking for an Amulet that could spell disaster for any who come near it. Battling blistering heat, starvation, wild animals, and despair, he is not comforted by the company of a rough and ready sort named Morrison. Soon Durham begins to suspect he may never return home—and to top it all off the tea has almost run out. 

A Ruby in Rain by Grant Stone – From the farthest edge of the Empire, New Zealand agents Lachlan King and Barry Ferguson are called to interview a recent arrival to Auckland’s prisons. An infamous gambler, according to the constable’s account, has turned himself into their custody, not for the safety of society but for his own. The Ministry steps in to uncover a man’s story of impressive luck, and more incredible vision.

This collection of stories are from the archives of the Peculiar Occurrences office on what the various spies have been doing and the mysterious reports Eliza and Wellington talk about. It is a fun collection and can be read as a standalone if you haven't read any of the books in the series. My favorite story was Eliza and Wellington's story but I also enjoyed the rest as well. Most of the books are done by various narrators and so there is a mix of good and okay storytellers just as there are stories in the various anthologies you get. I do love it when Eliza and Wellington introduce the stories and those are also the ones I tended to enjoy as well.

As with all anthologies I enjoyed some, loved some and found some were okay. None were horrible and overall I had fun. One thing I need to tell you is when you are listening to the stories, there will be some background noise pertinent to the story. A gunshot, a foot step, things of this nature are thrown in to make it more like the old stories when there was no tv. :) I wasn't prepared and jumped several times until I realized that is what is going on. LOL It was odd to turn when there were footsteps but no one behind me. :D Not to mention the gunshot. So be prepared. ;)

I give this collection 4 stars. It is fun and a great addition to the series. I will be listening to the rest in the other collection as time permits. It is free on iTunes as audio but you can also get it in ebook format. Those do have a price on it's head though. :)

Anthology review: The Doll Collection Edited by Ellen Datlow

Anthology
Edited by Ellen Datlow
Authors: Stephen Gallagher, Miranda Siemienowicz, Mary Robinette Kowal, Richard Bowes, Genevieve Valentine, Richard Kadrey, Veronica Schanoes ,John Langan, Jeffrey Ford, Joyce Carol Oates, Gemma Files, Pat Cadigan, Lucy Sussex, Tim Lebbon, Seanan McGuire, Carrie Vaughn, Stephen Graham Jones
352 p.
Publisher: Tor Books
Published: 3/10/15
Source: From publisher for review

The Doll Collection is exactly what it sounds like: a treasured toy box of all-original dark stories about dolls of all types, including everything from puppets and poppets to mannequins and baby dolls. Featuring everything from life-sized clockwork dolls to all-too-human Betsy Wetsy-type baby dolls, these stories play into the true creepiness of the doll trope, but avoid the clichés that often show up in stories of this type.Master anthologist Ellen Datlow has assembled a list of beautiful and terrifying stories from bestselling and critically acclaimed authors such as Joyce Carol Oates, Seanan McGuire, Carrie Vaughn, Pat Cadigan, Tim Lebbon, Richard Kadrey, Genevieve Valentine, and Jeffrey Ford. The collection is illustrated with photographs of dolls taken by Datlow and other devoted doll collectors from the science fiction and fantasy field. The result is a star-studded collection exploring one of the most primal fears of readers of dark fiction everywhere, and one that every reader will want to add to their own collection.

My thoughts:
As with almost all anthologies it has some great stories, some "eh" stories and a couple that confounded me. Still, I would have to say that as a whole, the collection stayed within the boundaries of horror and dolls. Two things I think go great together. For those that shy away from horror, it isn't too scary that you can't handle it (I'm an admitted wimp) but it is creepy. Not one is a happy go lucky, feel good story. That's a good thing for this collection. :)

I have to say that my favorite stories didn't surprise me. Seanan McGuire and Carrie Vaughn are worth the price of admission for the book. Other stories captured me and creeped me out but there were also a couple that just confused me to no end. I don't want to call out those specific stories since it could rightly be just me and I don't want to color your view of the story before you get to it.

I give this collection 3 stars and I highly recommend it to those that love horror and just being creeped out. :)

Dark and Deadly: Novellas 1-4

 

I'll be splitting this review into a few. After all the stories, you get a look into the series the novellas occupy. That way you can be sure you want to dive into the world and romance provided by each author. Don't forget you can get this set for .99¢ at your favorite ebook retailer for a limited time!

Source for all stories: From publicity for review

Bodyguard
Author: Jennifer Ashley
Series: Shifters Unbound #2.5
224p.

Elizabeth Chapman is saved from an armed robber by a giant Kodiak bear who shifts into a large, well-muscled, and fully bare human. But when it's revealed that the robber is the brother of a dangerous criminal, Elizabeth finds herself the target of a vendetta.

Ronan, the Bear Shifter, takes her to Shiftertown, where she finds that mateless Ronan takes care of Shifters who have no families or clans of their own. Having grown up in foster care herself, Elizabeth can only admire how protective Ronan is, even while she chafes at the confinement.

But Ronan will only let her leave the safety of Shiftertown if he becomes her 24/7 bodyguard. Elizabeth finally agrees. The trouble is, the sassy human Elizabeth is triggering Ronan's long-buried need to find himself a mate.

My thoughts:
I was surprised that this was a short, but full story about a kodiak bear shifter and his newfound mate. i was really expecting a very short novella just introducing me to the series. I've been curious about this series and I feel like I got a good look into this world. In this story Elizabeth if running from her past and taking care of her sister when Ronan saves her life during a robbery. She finds herself in danger because she lived and so Ronan immediately decides to help her even further with her problem. Of course this is a PNR so the romance was a bit fast, but still interesting. The couple ended up making me smile more than once and the other characters surrounding Ronan also captured my attention. I give this book 4 stars and feel like it was a fun PNR shifter novel and I do think I'll be reading more in the Shifters Unbound world.

Alejandro's Sorceress
by Alyssa Day
Series: Warriors of Poseidon

He’s a warrior, hardened by years of protecting his town from vampire attack. She’s a garden witch who sees the world in shades of sunshine and delight. Opposites don’t only attract, they go supernova in this sizzling tale of magic and mayhem.

My thoughts:
This novella takes place in the world of the Warriors of Poseidon series. I couldn't find a novella number but it is obviously part of that world since it has some of the same Atlantians within the book. I haven't read the series but do have it on my wishlist. This wasn't a hard book to get into if you, like me, haven't read the series yet.

The romance is fast, but it is also cute. I would have liked to spend a bit more time with the couple and get the romance a bit more developed, but even without that, I found that Rose, the garden witch, to be a great character. She is strong and doesn't take crap from the alpha males. I give the story 3 stars and I think it will amp up your interest in the world of Atlantis since we only get a wee peek into that world. There is a short epilogue that had me smiling for the couple in the end.

Bewitch
by Felicity Heaton
Series: Vampire Erotic Theatre #5
140p.

A vampire with a past stained with blood and a soul tainted with darkness, he is perfect in his self-control, never surrendering to his darkest desires. Now a beautiful witch in the shadowy fae underworld threatens to reawaken long denied hungers and tempts him with carnal pleasure. 

Payne despises the incubus side of his mixed genes and refuses to give it free rein, but when the wickedly sexy Elissa offers him a possible way to help a friend, he finds it difficult to resist paying the price, even if it will be his undoing—one night of passion at her command. 

Elissa is a witch down on her luck until Payne comes crashing into her life. The dangerously handsome male is the key to fulfilling a promise she made, but he is also forbidden, and surrendering to the wildfire passion he stirs within her means risking ruin and death. 

When one incredible night of fulfilling their deepest fantasies leads to more than just a pathway to keeping a promise and saving a friend, will they be able to overcome the barriers that stand between them and forever?

My thoughts:
The synopsis really tells the plot. What is nice about this book is that although the smex happens quickly (but then what do you expect from an incubus?) the relationship takes some time and they reveal to each other things that both of them have hidden from others. By the end of this novella I was smiling and even though there is a lot of smex, there is a tender moment here and there as well. I give this novella 4 stars and it is book 5 in the Vampire Erotic Theatre books. These books seem to have interesting characters and not just smex. :)

Darkness Falls
by Erin Kellison
Series: Reveler #1
115p.

Agent Malcolm Rook is hunting for people with the rarest of talents—the ability to master dreams. He finds the undeniably gifted Jordan Lane, but she’s wary of mysterious Rook and resists his pursuit as long as she can. Yet the dreamwaters they enter are too exhilarating to resist, and attraction soon ignites electric passions. Delving too deep stirs a nightmare, one they must defeat, or be forever lost to darkness.

My thoughts: 
This one is going to be hard for me to review. In fact, this author was the reason I wanted to review this group of novellas. Her Shadow books are one of my favorite series. In this start of a series, it was a short read, but not always an easy one. The world was hard to follow but after a while, you did get used to some of it and so some of it flowed even though you didn't quite feel like you had a complete grasp of what was going on. I feel that this will clear up as the series goes on. It was also quite short and so you are left with a lot of questions. It also works in wanting to continue the series because I wasn't ready to leave and wanted some completion of the story I started. What was great about this series was the characters. Although I am not completely sure about Malcolm, I  know he is someone to root for and want the best for him. Who I really enjoyed was Jordan once her walls started to come down and her wicked sense of humor came forward. I give this book 3 stars, and I am intrigued enough to want to continue the series and find out more about these characters and the world in which they exist.

Anthology Giveaway!

Tor has contacted me for a very good giveaway! 3 of this years anthologies! Yes! You can win all 3!!

The books:

21st Century Science Fiction
Anthology
576p.
Publisher: Tor Books

Twenty-First Century Science Fiction is an enormous anthology of short stories—close to 250,000 words—edited by two of the most prestigious and award-winning editors in the SF field and featuring recent stories from some of science fiction’s greatest up-and-coming authors. 

David Hartwell and Patrick Nielsen Hayden have long been recognized as two of the most skilled and trusted arbiters of the field, but Twenty-First Century Science Fiction presents fans’ first opportunities to see what their considerable talents come up with together, and also to get a unique perspective on what’s coming next in the science fiction field. 

The anthology includes authors ranging from bestselling and established favorites to incandescent new talents including Paolo Bacigalupi, Cory Doctorow, Catherynne M. Valente, John Scalzi, Jo Walton, Charles Stross, Elizabeth Bear, and Peter Watts, and the stories selected include winners and nominees of all of the science fiction field’s major awards.

One of Publishers Weekly's Best Science Fiction Books of 2013

Year's Best SF 18
Anthology
416p.
Publisher: Tor Books

Once again, the finest short-form SF offerings of the year have been collected in a single volume.

With Year’s Best SF 18, acclaimed, award-winning editor and anthologist David G. Hartwell demonstrates the amazing depth and power of contemporary speculative fiction, showcasing astonishing short stories from some of science fiction's most respected names as well as exciting new writers to watch. In this anthology, prepare to travel light years from the ordinary into a tomorrow at once breathtaking, frightening, and possible with some of the greatest tales of wonder published in 2012.

Dangerous Women
edited by George R. R. Martin and Gardner Dozois
Anthology
736p.
Publisher: Tor Books

The Dangerous Women anthology contains following stories:- Introduction by Gardner Dozois- “Some Desperado” by Joe Abercrombie - A Red Country story- “My Heart is Either Broken” by Megan Abbott- “Nora’s Song” by Cecelia Holland- “The Hands That Are Not There” by Melinda Snodgrass- “Bombshells” by Jim Butcher - A Harry Dresden story- “Raisa Stepanova” by Carrie Vaughn- “Wrestling Jesus” by Joe R. Lansdale- “Neighbors” by Megan Lindholm- “I Know How to Pick ’Em” by Lawrence Block- “Shadows For Silence in the Forests of Hell” by Brandon Sanderson- “A Queen in Exile” by Sharon Kay Penman- “The Girl in the Mirror” by Lev Grossman - A Magicians story- “Second Arabesque, Very Slowly” by Nancy Kress- “City Lazarus” by Diana Rowland- “Virgins” by Diana Gabaldon - An Outlander story- “Hell Hath No Fury” by Sherilynn Kenyon- “Pronouncing Doom” by S.M. Stirling - An Emberverse story- “Name the Beast” by Sam Sykes- “Caretakers” by Pat Cadigan- “Lies My Mother Told Me” by Caroline Spector - A Wild Cards story

- “The Princess and the Queen” by George R.R. Martin - A Song of Ice and Fire story

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I can see everyone's eyes go wide at several of these authors especially George R. R. Martin, Diana Gabaldon, Jim Butcher, Carrie Vaughn, John Scalzi, and Cory Doctorow.

Interested? Well, then fill out the rafflecopter form below. US/Can only. The giveaway will be open until the 28th.

Carniepunk by Various UF Authors

Anthology
Available: 7/23/13
448p.
Published: Gallery Books
Source: From publisher for review

A star-studded urban fantasy anthology featuring bestselling authors Rachel Caine, Rob Thurman, Seanan McGuire, Jennifer Estep, and Kevin Hearne, whose stories explore the creepy, mysterious, and, yes, sometimes magical world of traveling carnivals. 

The traveling carnival is a leftover of a bygone era, a curiosity lurking on the outskirts of town. It is a place of contradictions—the bright lights mask the peeling paint; a carnie in greasy overalls slinks away from the direction of the Barker’s seductive call. It is a place of illusion—is that woman’s beard real? How can she live locked in that watery box? 

And while many are tricked by sleight of hand, there are hints of something truly magical going on. One must remain alert and learn quickly the unwritten rules of this dark show. To beat the carnival, one had better have either a whole lot of luck or a whole lot of guns—or maybe some magic of one’s own. 

Featuring stories grotesque and comical, outrageous and action-packed,Carniepunk is the first anthology to channel the energy and attitude of urban fantasy into the bizarre world of creaking machinery, twisted myths, and vivid new magic.

My thoughts:
This is a book by: Rachel Caine, Jennifer Estep, Kevin Hearne, Seanan McGuire, Rob Thurman, Delilah S. Dawson, Kelly Gay, Mark Henry, Hillary Jacques, Jackie Kessler, Kelly Meding, Allison Pang, Nicole Peeler, and Jaye Wells. These authors are either my some of my favorite UF writers or those that I want to get to know (and have their books waiting for me on my tbr). I also took my time with this one. I know that a lot of people think it is a hallmark of a book to finish quickly. Sometimes, if you are like me, you want to savor a book. Enjoy it slowly. I was able to do just that by only reading 2 or 3 of the short stories at a time. I wanted to really enjoy what I read before I dove into the next world.

Although I won't go into each specific story (I don't want to spoil a thing) I can say that this collection was very well done. All had the theme of a visiting carnival that wrecks havoc for characters we are both familiar with and meet for the first time. Many of these are written so they are part of a series but those that haven't read that series shouldn't worry, you can get into the stories easily without knowing what had gone on previously. It is a good way to see if it might be a series you want to try after reading. And while I enjoyed some stories more than others (will always be that way in any anthology you pick up), I have to say I didn't find one I disliked.

Oh and those that are missing series that have just been dropped, it is good to note that Allison Pang's short is a part of the Abby Sinclar world and Kelly Gay's short is a part of the Charlie Madigan world. I would have bought it just for that one! :D

I give this book 4.5 stars. I have to say it has been one of my top anthologies that I've read. I think that if you are a fan of UF, this is an anthology that belongs on your book shelves or ereader. Luckily it isn't a limited time offer and you don't have to personally be assaulted by clowns to get it. :)

PS.. for those just wanting the Jennifer Estep story...

CARNIEPUNK: PARLOR TRICKS is available for free atAmazon, Nook, Kobo, and iTunes.

Predatory by Alexandra Ivy, Nina Bangs, Dianne Duvall, Hannah Jayne

Four of today's most exciting paranormal authors take readers into the thrilling realm of vampires, immortals, and other supernatural beings with a thirst for illicit desire...

Out Of Control by Alexandra IvyPh.D 

Student Angela Locke has a crush on her sexy professor, Dr. Nikolo Bartrev. When she learns he's actually a Sentinel with extraordinary powers, she joins forces with him to catch a psychopath. But soon, their hottest pursuit is of each other...

Ties That Bind by Nina Bangs 

Cassie Tyler agrees to sub for her friend at the funeral home where she works. But she gets more than she bargained for when a group of men attack her and a vampire comes to her rescue. . .

In Still Darkness by Dianne Duvall (Immortal Guardians #3.5)   

Immortal Richart d'Alençon can't forget the woman who rewarded him with a sensuous kiss after he saved her from a trio of vampires. While Richart knows that loving a human can only bring trouble, the taste of forbidden lust is too great to resist...

High Stakes by Hannah Jayne 

When vampire fashionista Nina LaShay's design contest rival is found dead, she's the prime suspect. Sexy photographer Pike is number two. He's the kind of man who makes Nina salivate. But will she have to reveal herself to have him--and to save them both? Or does Pike have a secret of his own?​

I know that some people enjoy anthologies and some don't. I admit, I fall into the former category. I like introductions to new worlds that I want to visit because it is part of a series I want to read or just visiting worlds just invented for the short story. I also think that short stories are very hard to write. You have to develop a connection and a world in a very short time. So when it works, I really enjoy it.

In this anthology 2 of the 4 stories was an introduction to a new series and another one was part of an already established series. These were my favorites. Out of Control brings us an interesting world where people develop paranormal abilities and are separated from the "norms". It's a great start to the series and has me interested in further stories. In some way the romance felt a bit forced due to the length, but yet still kept my interest. I'm very curious as to how this world evolves within the series. I'm looking forward to reading it.

In Ties That Bind, I think this one isn't an introduction to a new series. I thought it really started off with a bang and was very gritty and gothic. Much darker than most PNR you read. However, it sort of got a bit funny to me when what kills others is the beauty of the vampire. Some may eye roll at this and some may actually love the creativity within. I did both, but was entertained no matter what my eyes were doing.

In Still Darkness is a part of an established series (Immortal Guardians) which I have read and reviewed. I love this world and the stories and this one was just so much fun going back to that world and learning about another character. You don't have to have read the others to get it, but it makes it just that much more fun if you had. If you love this series (like me) then you will really love this short.

High Stakes is a fun PNR with a lot of tongue in cheek. I suspect I will like this series much better when there is more time to really explore the mysteries surrounding the main character Nina. I also think I will have more fun with a longer novel as it should really bring out Nina's snark. I can see the beginnings of excellent snark... can't wait to see how it is even better pulled off.

All in all I give this anthology 4 stars. Like other anthologies you will enjoy some more than others, but in all, it was an entertaining book. Great for introductions to other PNR worlds which is what I think this book was all about. It pulled it off nicely. :)

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

Bloggy note:

Come back tomorrow for a blog post and a great giveaway from Dianne Duvall!

'Til the World Ends by Julie Kagawa, Ann Aguirre, Karen Duvall

Dawn of Eden by Julie Kagawa

Before The Immortal Rules, there was the Red Lung, a relentless virus determined to take out all in its path. For Kylie, the miracle of her survival is also her burden-as a doctor at one of the clinics for the infected, she is forced to witness endless suffering. What's worse, strange things are happening to the remains of the dead, and by the time she befriends Ben Archer, she's beginning to wonder if a global pandemic is the least of her problems....

Thistle & Thorne by Ann Aguirre

After a catastrophic spill turns the country into a vast chemical wasteland, those who could afford it retreated to fortresses, self-contained communities run by powerful corporations. But for Mari Thistle, life on the outside-in the Red Zone-is a constant struggle. To protect her family, Mari teams up with the mysterious Thorne Goodman. Together, they'll face an evil plot in both the underworld of the Red Zone and the society inside the fortresses that could destroy those on the outside...for good.

Sun Storm by Karen Duvall

Sarah Daggot has been chasing storms since she was a child. But after the biggest solar flares in history nearly destroy the planet, she becomes a Kinetic, endowed by her exposure to extreme radiation with the power to sense coming storms-in the cosmos and beyond. And she's not the only one. Sarah believes the Kinetics are destined to join forces and halt the final onslaught of the sun. She'll vow to keep trying to convince the one missing link in their chain of defense, the enigmatic Ian Matthews, up until the world ends.

This is a dystopian anthology by 3 talented authors. I'll review each story, but give only one rating as a whole.

Dawn of Eden (Blood of Eden #.05) by Julie Kagawa

In this story we are given the prequel to Immortal Rules. This tale pulls together 2 different characters than who we meet in the first novel. So, there is no problem reading this one after the first. In this book Kylie and Ben meet up through a friend that has been bitten. Ben is reluctant to tell Kylie what has happened and in fact knows a bit more about the zombie like vampires preying on non-infected people. We know some of what is going on through the first novel and it pretty much stays on track with this one.

I do have to say I was a bit surprised by this story. I reads a bit more adult with a much more graphic scene of sex than we usually get with YA. In fact, I would have considered this prequel adult and had I read it before the novel, I would have thought the whole series was adult and not YA. Still, it works for this story. I do have to admit, I wasn't completely drawn into the romance between the two characters, but was not unconvinced either. Extreme circumstances can heighten emotions, but it just seemed that they needed more down time to really get to know each other to claim each other in a forever way. Still, it was an interesting addition to the series. 

Thistle and Thorne by Anne Aguirre

I have to admit this was my favorite of the 3. Mari is someone of skill and can kick ass when needed. Strong female protagonist? Oh yea, you know I loved that. She meets up with Thorne after a robbery gone all kinds of wrong. He saves her but uses her for his end game. However, since their end games meet up by destroying the bad guy who is in charge goes along with Thorne. Perhaps she even steals his heart, but we are never certain.

I really enjoyed Mari. A bit of an optimist despite the circumstances, you really have to admire how she takes care of her siblings and close friends. She has become a reluctant leader in her area and this adventure will destroy her ability to be covert. So, when the ending of unanswered questions happens, I admit I wanted to start tweeting Anne Aguirre and begging her to finish it or give me a novel of these characters! Don't leave me like this!! Think that would work? ;)

Sun Storm by Karen Duvall

With this story you will have to suspend things you know with the world she has created. The sun creates storms and has baked the world. How people survived such harsh conditions has me baffled (especially the frail and infirm)... but then suspension of belief comes in so I can go on with the story.

I also have to say that I didn't completely buy the romance in this one, but it had it's sweet moments. I think if it was longer it would have been easier for me to see the two become inseparable, but that is sometimes the problem with short stories. You have so much to share in such little space. Still, it was an interesting concept even if the ending was a bit contrived. Perhaps this would have been better at novel length.

In all I give this anthology 3 1/2 stars. If you want to get your dystopian on, this might just fit the bill. Although the situations are bleak, you will find the light within each of these stories.

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

21st Century Dead: A Zombie Anthology by Christopher Golden

The Stoker-award winning editor of the acclaimed, eclectic anthology The New Dead returns with 21st Century Dead, and an all-new lineup of authors from all corners of the fiction world, shining a dark light on our fascination with tales of death and resurrection... with ZOMBIES! The stellar stories in this volume includes a tale set in the world of Daniel H. Wilson’s Robopocalypse, the first published fiction by Sons of Anarchycreator Kurt Sutter, and a tale of love, family, and resurrection from the legendary Orson Scott Card. This new volume also includes stories also from other award-winning and New York Times bestselling authors, such as: Simon R. Green, Chelsea Cain, Jonathan Maberry, Duane Swiercyznski, Caitlin Kittredge, Brian Keene, Amber Benson, John Skipp, S. G. Browne, Thomas E. Sniegoski, Hollywood screenwriter Stephen Susco, National Book Award nominee Dan Chaon, and more!

This is a collection of horror stories staring our favorite horror creature, zombies! The collection runs the gamut of stories. Some quite grotesque, and some with nary a brain in site. However, some will make you think, and even shed a tear. In fact, one had me hugging my puppy after reading it. Oh that one I could shake a fist at... I hate to cry!

In many of the stories, there are much more frightening things than the zombies. Even if the zombies weren't horrifying and quite docile, or even those that could not be stopped, the true horror resided in the humans left. Even within a couple of those stories a few heart-strings could be tugged.

I give this zombie anthology 4 stars. It is one of the best anthologies I have read. Of course there were a couple of stories that didn't appeal to me, but I still admired the way it was written. All of the stories were creative and explored all the different aspects of zombieism. Even comparing the few zombies we may know that love potatoes to those that eat flesh. I recommend this book to anyone who loves the zombie genre.

I received this book from Library Thing's Early Reviewers Program and the publisher and no compensation for my review was given.

Entangled Anthology

Description:

Ghosts, vampires, demons, and more! Entangled includes ten suspense-filled paranormal short stories from authors Cynthia Eden, Jennifer Estep, Edie Ramer, Lori Brighton, Michelle Diener, Misty Evans, Nancy Haddock, Liz Kreger, Dale Mayer, and Michelle Miles, plus a Seven Deadly Sins novella by Allison Brennan.

Stacia Kane contributed the foreword. Formatting and cover art were also donated to the project by Lori Devoti and Laura Morrigan.

All proceeds go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Stories include:

HALLOWEEN FROST by USA Today bestselling author Jennifer Estep (author of the Mythos Academy, Elemental Assassin, and Bigtime series) — It's Halloween at Mythos Academy, but Gwen Frost and her friends are in for more tricks than treats when they run into a mythological monster intent on killing them.

THE FAT CAT by Edie Ramer (author of Cattitude, Galaxy Girls) — In a battle for the souls of seven women, a wizard has the god of war on his side; all the witch has is a fat, black cat.

MEDIUM RARE by Nancy Haddock (author of the Oldest City Vampire trilogy) —What’s spooking the spirits of St. Augustine? As the witching hour of Halloween approaches, ghost seer Colleen Cotton must team with a by-the-book paranormal investigator to locate the one ghost who can save the city’s specters. If she fails, her own great grandfather’s spirit may be lost forever.

SWEET DEMON by Misty Evans (author of the Witches Anonymous series) —When Chicago’s vampire king insists Kali Sweet join his empire, the vengeance demon must rely on her ex – the half-human, half-chaos demon who left her at the altar three hundred years ago – in order to escape the vamp’s clutches.

SIAN’S SOLUTION by Dale Meyer (author of the Psychic Visions series) — When a vampire discovers the human man she loves has been captured and hung in a blood farm, she goes against her own kind and risks everything to save him.

A BIT OF BITE by Cynthia Eden (author of NEVER CRY WOLF and ANGEL OF DARKNESS) — A killer is stalking the streets of Crossroads, Mississippi, and it's up to Sheriff Ava Dushaine to stop him. But when suspicion falls on werewolf alpha Julian Kasey—Ava’s ex-lover and the man who still haunts her dreams—Ava knows that she'll either have to prove his innocence...or watch the whole town go up in flames.

SINFULLY SWEET by Michelle Miles (author of the Coffee House series) — When Chloe bakes a little magic into her pastries, she attracts the attention of Edward, the sexy half-demon, half-witch, who’s come to warn her those who murdered her sister are now after her.

A NIGHT OF FOREVER by Lori Brighton (author of A Night of Secrets and To Seduce an Earl) — Who is Aidan Callaghan? Mary Ellen James is intent on uncovering the truth about the mysterious man, but as she soon finds out, some things are best left buried in the past.

FEEL THE MAGIC by Liz Kreger (author of the Part of Tomorrow series) — Jenna Carmichael’s magical attempt to rectify Jessica Manfield’s birth identity takes an unexpected turn when the past comes back to haunt her.

BREAKING OUT by Michelle Diener (author of the Tudor-set historical suspense novel In A Treacherous Court) — Imprisoned in a secret facility, powerful telekinetic Kelli Barrack and two other 'special' inmates grab a chance to escape, only to confront their worst nightmares on the outside.

GHOSTLY JUSTICE, an all-new Seven Deadly Sins novella by New York Times bestselling author Allison Brennan (author of the Seven Deadly Sins series) — Demon hunters Moira O’Donnell and Rafe Cooper are dragged into the dangerous world of nocturnal predators to find “Ghostly Justice” for a virgin sacrificed to an ancient blood demon.

I decided to do a mini review of this book since the descriptions were so good at profiling all the stories within this book. This was an enjoyable anthology even though some of the author afterwords were a bit bittersweet since many of them knew of someone with breast cancer or cancer in general. I've always believed that the cure to one cancer will lead to others (and cures for other diseases as well), so I believe it is important to support these endeavors even if it isn't the type of cancer that touched your life. These authors put their craft to work for a cure and I, for one, congratulate them!

As for the book... as with all anthologies you will find ones you love and ones you don't care for. I found my most surprising story by Michelle Diener since I enjoyed it so much and she never wrote a paranormal before. I hope she continues. Especially with the story within the anthology. I will also say that even though there are a couple of stories here that could be considered YA (or are, like Jennifer Estep's story) I would not say that this is for the YA group, most of the stories are adult in nature.

I give this book 4 stars. It is a great collection of stories to find a new author or continue with an author you enjoy! Plus it supports a great cause. I mean it's not often you can get 11 stories for only $2.99! Get it where you buy your ebooks!

I received this book from an author and no compensation for my review was given.

The Poison Eaters by Holly Black

From Holly Black's Website:

In her debut collection, New York Times best-selling author Holly Black returns to the world of Tithe in two darkly exquisite new tales. Then Black takes readers on a tour of a faerie market and introduces a girl poisonous to the touch and another who challenges the devil to a competitive eating match. These stories have been published in anthologies such as 21 Proms, The Faery Reel, and The Restless Dead, and have been reprinted in many "Best of" anthologies. The Poison Eaters is Holly Black's much-anticipated first collection of stories, and her ability to stare into the void--and to find humanity and humor there--will speak to young adult and adult readers alike.

I really enjoyed this anthology. I'm not going to get into each story, but as a whole the book was dark and fun. Not all of these stories have a happy ending, but all are deliciously twisted. Some stories stood out a bit more than others but as a whole they all seem to fit together. Not as entwining stories, but more as stories with the same sense of supernatural darkness. This is also a collection of YA "faerie stories" that adults will enjoy as well as the YA crowd. Especially those sick of the swooning too soon female and the arrogant male that gets away with everything. Also, I enjoyed the fact that several societal issues faced currently were incorporated into some of the stories.

I give this anthology 4 1/2  stars. Some stories I might even rate a 5. Oh and yes... I should mention that there is a few stories on poison. It's not just in the title. Some *coughStephanieoftheMisfitSaloncough* will thoroughly enjoy just based on that dark fact. ;) This book will be published March 22, 2011.

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

Haunted by Your Touch by Jeaniene Frost, Sharie Kohler, Shayla Black

From Goodreads:

USA Today and New York Times bestselling author Jeaniene Frost seduces readers into a forbidden new world as she teams up with romance stars Shayla Black and Sharie Kohler for a sizzling collection of original novellas featuring fallen angels, anarchistic demons, warrior wizards, and irresistibly dangerous creatures of the night. 

Enter the dark realm of Nocturna in Jeaniene Frost’s redhot tale, where blisteringly sexy Raphael dominates the demons of a lawless dimension and tries to help a beautiful young woman avenge her cousin’s disappearance. In the shadowy world of Shayla Black’s Doomsday Brethren, magical warrior Raiden vows to protect his woman and their unborn youngling from evil—and deliver her safely to another man. But once he’s saved her, can he let her go? Lycans rule the night in Sharie Kohler’s suspenseful story, as a fiery woman stalks mysterious Luc, the undeniably hypnotic being she believes can save her from turning . . . if she kills him. Danger beckons in these captivating paranormal tales that will tempt readers to the edge and leave them begging for more.

 Oh what can I say. I LOVED the short story from Jeaniene Frost. If she develops it into another series I will be there drooling for Raphael. In a way he does remind me a little bit of Bones. He's a bit arrogant with reason, he's strong, smart and sexy as hell. Plus he is in love with one woman only. He's a bit more willing to allow Mara to do her own thing and is less chauvinistic than Bones can be around Cat. AND with Jeaniene Frost you know you are going to get some sexy time in the book. Oh yes you do! Even the carriage ride sexy time was pretty good. ;) Yes, this short story is one I believe everyone who loves the stories by Ms. Frost will enjoy.

The second story comes from Shayla Black. I enjoyed this one less mostly because I was frustrated with Raiden throughout the story. However, I believe that is how you are supposed to feel since the rest of the characters in the book were right there with you pulling out their hair in frustration. The only other thing I didn't care for in this story is that it didn't feel complete within itself. The ending left too many things open and even though it wasn't a complete cliffhanger, it was a cliffhanger nonetheless. You are left wondering.

The third story is by Sharie Kohler (aka Sophie Jordan). This one was much more involved with the characters feelings. You really got to know Luc and a bit about his intended, Lily. Although I really got into this one I wasn't completely satisfied with Lily's decisions. I think I'd like to have a few more twists or options involved. If there were to be no other options, then perhaps more information as to what Lily's decision would really cost the couple. What was the decision? Not telling. You'll have to read it to find out.

I've given this book 4 stars. It is an adult book with lots of sexy time in all three stories. I won this signed book from Jeaniene Frost at the Supernatural Underground. No compensation was given for my review.

Songs of Love and Death Blog Tour

From Goodreads:

In this star-studded cross-genre anthology, seventeen of the greatest modern authors of fantasy, science fiction, and romance explore the borderlands of their genres with brand-new tales of ill-fated love. From zombie-infested woods in a postapocalyptic America to faery-haunted rural fields in eighteenth- century England, from the kingdoms of high fantasy to the alien world of a galaxy-spanning empire, these are stories of lovers who must struggle against the forces of magic and fate.

Award-winning, bestselling author Neil Gaiman demonstrates why he’s one of the hottest stars in literature today with “The Thing About Cassandra,” a subtle but chilling story of a man who meets an old girlfriend he had never expected to see.

International blockbuster bestselling author Diana Gabaldon sends a World War II RAF pilot through a stone circle to the time of her Outlander series in “A Leaf on the Winds of All Hallows.” Torn from all he knows, Jerry MacKenzie determinedly survives hardship and danger, intent on his goal of returning home to his wife and baby—no matter the cost.

New York Times bestselling author Jim Butcher presents “Love Hurts,” in which Harry Dresden takes on one of his deadliest adversaries and in the process is forced to confront the secret desires of his own heart.

Just the smallest sampling promises unearthly delights, but look also for stories by New York Times bestselling romance authors Jo Beverley and Mary Jo Putney, and by such legends of the fantasy genre as Peter S. Beagle and Tanith Lee, as well as many other popular and beloved writers, including Marjorie M. Liu, Jacqueline Carey, Carrie Vaughn, and Robin Hobb. This exquisite anthology, crafted by the peerless editing team of George R. R. Martin and Gardner Dozois, is sure to leave you under its spell.

Discover the many realms of the heart with this extraordinary cast of acclaimed authors:

Peter S. Beagle

Jo Beverley

Jim Butcher

Jacqueine Carey

Diana Gabaldon

Neil Gaiman

Yasmine Galenorn

M.L.N. Hanover

Robin Hobb

Cecelia Holland

Tanith Lee

Marjorie M. Liu

Mary Jo Putney

Linnea Sinclair 

Melinda Snodgrass

Lisa Tuttle 

Carrie Vaughn

These are a collection of stories by some very famous authors. Most of these stories are new. Some of these stories, like the one Jim Butcher gives us we read about familiar characters we have met before. All of them revolve around love and/or death. And although you would suspect a collection of lovely PNR stories, you actually get a bit of that and a lot of sci-fi with a bit of historical romance/death thrown in for good measure. Not all end on a happy note, nor on an expected one either, but all leave you thinking or at least considering what transpired within the short story. Some might even leave you scratching your head. However, it is written in such a way that I did not mind.

I will not go into each story separately, but will say that as a whole, this book gets 4 stars. I really enjoyed the stories. Some I absolutely loved. Some I liked less, but I disliked none. I think if you like anthologies, sci-fi, and endings that leave you wondering,  you will enjoy this book.

Masked by Various Authors Blog Tour

From Goodreads:

A thrilling, unique anthology of original super hero fiction, with contributions from luminaries in both the comic book and science fiction fields. 

Introduction: The Golden Age by Lou Anders 

"Cleansed and Set in Gold" by Matthew Sturges 

"Where their Worm Dieth Not" by James Maxey 

"Secret Identity" by Paul Cornell 

"The Non-Event" by Mike Carey 

"Avatar" by Mike Baron 

"Message from the Bubblegum Factory" by Daryl Gregory 

"Thug" by Gail Simone 

"Vacuum Lad" by Stephen Baxter 

"A Knight of Ghosts and Shadows" by Chris Roberson 

"Head Cases" by Peter David & Kathleen David 

"Downfall" by Joseph Mallozzi 

"By My Works You Shall Know Me" by Mark Chadbourn 

"Call Her Savage" by Marjorie M. Liu 

"Tonight we fly" by Ian McDonald 

"A to Z in the Ultimate Big Company Superhero Universe (Villains Too)" by Bill Willingham

This anthology is an exploration of the superhero and villain. It explores a lot of aspects never seen before within this genre. You have superheros of various sexual orientations, religions and races. It also explores the reality of someone trying to be a superhero in the real world without any special powers as seen in Avatar. There is also a few villain stories. One where the villain isn't evil, but because he looks evil fights for that side as seen in Thug. You also have other stories as to why a villain becomes a villain. Plus, I can't forget the story of the superhero that was a jerk and you felt for the former villain as in Downfall. You even get superheros and villains past their prime as well as all out battles. Also, most have a twist in the story usually at the end as all good superhero stories have.

It's a fun anthology especially those that all lovers of superheros and villains should read. It's also good for those that love short stories with complex characters and plots. I gave this book 4 stars and really enjoyed reading all the short stories.

And on a personal note... I am sorry again that this took me so long to get to and write. Just keep remembering those huge kitty eyes, please. :)