A Kiss Before Doomsday by Laurence MacNaughton

Series: Dru Jasper #2
290 p.
Publisher: Pyr
Published: 7/11/17
Source: From publisher for review

When sorcerers disappear off the streets of Denver, the only person to notice a pattern is Dru, proprietor of The Crystal Connection and newly-minted sorceress. Monstrous creatures are attacking and dragging off anyone with magical powers. Signs point to forbidden necromancy in the hands of someone trying to fulfill the prophecy of the apocalypse scroll. 

With the dead rising from the grave, Dru fears someone is picking up where the Harbingers left off half a century ago. Now more than ever, Dru needs half-demon Greyson and his infernal car, Hellbringer. Though Greyson is missing and presumed dead, Dru believes he’s alive—and trapped at the center of this evil.
Dru will need her friends—and her enemies—trusting in Rane’s strength, Opal’s wisdom, and her own crystal magic to infiltrate the mountainous fortress of a powerful sorcerer intent on bringing about doomsday. 

Because the moment the prophecy is fulfilled, legions of undead will rise to consume the souls of everyone on Earth…

My thoughts:

I reviewed the first one where I didn't know what to expect and found myself having some fun with it. I knew I'd probably feel the same way with this book, but things got in the way so I didn't get to this story until now. I'm so glad I did read it.

It has the same fun as the last one and I think surpasses it. I knew what to expect and the characters really grew on me this time. They all matured a bit but not too much (which is a good thing). Plus, with the awful cliffie of the last book, this one gives you all the answers and only an open ending for the next book. No real cliffies in this one! YaY! My only complaint is that Hellbringer, the car with an attitude, really didn't get a part in this one. He was there, he saved their collective behinds but it wasn't quite the same as the first. I missed that and it was my favorite part of the first book. Still, he is there and will be in the next one. So, I'm good. :)

I give this fun short book 4 stars. I recommend this series now since you get the answers you didn't get from the first book. Plus with these being very short (but not short on action) you could easily read them back to back. I do suggest reading these in order. I think those who like a fun PNR will enjoy this series.

🛣

The Queen of Swords by R. S. Belcher

Series: Golgotha #3
364 p.
Publisher: Tor Books
Published: 6/27/17
Source: From publisher for review

1870. Maude Stapleton, late of Golgotha, Nevada, is a respectable widow raising a daughter on her own. Few know that Maude belongs to an ancient order of assassins, the Daughters of Lilith, and is as well the great-great-great-great-granddaughter of Anne Bonney, the legendary female pirate.

Leaving Golgotha in search of her daughter Constance, who has been taken from her, Maude travels to Charleston, South Carolina, only to find herself caught in the middle of a secret war between the Daughters of Lilith and their ancestral enemies, the monstrous Sons of Typhon. To save Constance, whose prophetic gifts are sought by both cults, Maude must follow in the footsteps of Anne Bonney as she embarks on a perilous voyage that will ultimately lead her to a lost city of bones in the heart of Africa—and the Father of All Monsters.

My thoughts:

I haven't read the first two in the series and judging by the book I thought it was an offshoot series. It is not, but firmly a part of a series. I was not lost as I think Anne Bonney and her descendants take center stage in this one but not center in the other books. I enjoyed it as much as I thought I would but it made me crave more of Anne Bonney's story and I think I'll get some of it when I go back to read the other books in the series. Tor, if you are listening... I'd love to read those other books... *hint* 😉

This story flits back and forth between timelines. The time is stamped on each chapter but even if you didn't pay attention to it, you would not be lost. In this instance Anne's story is more of a supportive role to tell Maude's story but she doesn't take the back seat. In fact, I think she may have stole the show... but it fits her character well.

The weakest parts were with the Sons of Typhon and with Typhon himself. He doesn't quite make my most feared villains but perhaps that is because I haven't read the other stories. He lacked depth but I'm not real sure that bothers me. He was a good backdrop and a reason for the tale we got and I really wanted more of Anne and the sisters of Lilith and that background story.

I give this book 4 stars. While I think you could dive into this one as I did and not be lost, be prepared to want more of Anne's story. I have a feeling you'll be wanting either her own book all to herself or at least the other books in this series. I want both. I recommend it to those that enjoy fantasy and pirates you would sail with around the world.

⚔

The Bone Witch by Rin Chupeco

Series: The Bone Witch #1
400 p.
Published: 3/7/17
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Source: From publisher and NetGalley for review

"Let me be clear: I never intended to raise my brother from his grave, though he may claim otherwise. If there's anything I've learned from him in the years since, it's that the dead hide truths as well as the living." 

When Tea accidentally resurrects her brother from the dead, she learns she is different from the other witches in her family. Her gift for necromancy means that she's a bone witch, a title that makes her feared and ostracized by her community. But Tea finds solace and guidance with an older, wiser bone witch, who takes Tea and her brother to another land for training. 

In her new home, Tea puts all her energy into becoming an asha-one who can wield elemental magic. But dark forces are approaching quickly, and in the face of danger, Tea will have to overcome her obstacles...and make a powerful choice.

My thoughts:

I really enjoyed this author's other work and when I saw the cover for this one I knew I needed to read it. It is as lush in descriptions as her last work, but while that one built atmosphere, sometimes the descriptions here got in the way. I absolutely loved picturing all the gowns (hua) the asha's (magical ones) wore because it was such a part of who they were becoming. It also felt as if it was a complete amalgamation of different cultures, particularly eastern. It was fun exploring the world and what magic she could preform and what was held back in her abilities.

What I thought was a bit weak were Tea's relationships to the other secondary characters. In some ways it worked and they were completely supportive of her character in bringing her to life, but in other ways I thought the relationship should have been more defined. There were a couple of people who were interesting in their own right, felt as if they were going to be built upon but then felt dropped from importance. Now, this may correct itself (and I highly suspect it will) as the series continues, but I would have liked at least one character to have played a more distinctive role in the worldbuilding. Her brother, Fox, was rounded out much better than the others, but there were so many other personalities I wanted to get to know even just a bit better. I think the worldbuilding would have been perfected a bit more with those characters.

I still found the world fascinating and didn't mind the present/past back and forth within the book. To tell it otherwise would have made the book too long. Still, as we are building up in understanding about Tea and her abilities and coming to the climax of what is going on in the "present", the book ends. Thankfully this is part of a series or that would have really upset me.

I give this book 3 stars. I think it has the potential to really take off now that several things have been established. While it had some problems for me, I still found it interesting and compelling enough to want the next book to find out how the ending of this one plays out. I recommend it to those that enjoy YA fantasy with and Eastern bent but do be prepared for the ending. :)

A Darkly Beating Heart by Lindsay Smith

Standalone
272 p.
Publisher: Roaring Book Press
Published: 10/25/16
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

A time-travel story that alternates between modern day and 19th century Japan as one girl confronts the darkness lurking in her soul. 

No one knows what to do with Reiko. She is full of hatred. All she can think about is how to best hurt herself and the people closest to her. After a failed suicide attempt, Reiko’s parents send her from their Seattle home to spend the summer with family in Japan to learn to control her emotions. But while visiting Kuramagi, a historic village preserved to reflect the nineteenth-century Edo period, Reiko finds herself slipping back in time into the life of Miyu, a young woman even more bent on revenge than Reiko herself. Reiko loves being Miyu, until she discovers the secret of Kuramagi village, and must face down Miyu’s demons as well as her own.

My thoughts:

This one sounded perfect for the season. And it is also from a prospective we rarely get in YA. This one travels from contemporary Japan and 19th c. Japan. This also has the bisexual aspect that factors in a big way here as it becomes Reiko, our main character, primary reason and justification in what she does in the story. I think the cultural aspects and also the bisexual aspect of the story were handled well and with some sensitivity.

As much as I loved the setting and background of our main character, I didn't really like her until the end. Granted you really weren't supposed to but instead of feeling her rage, she felt like a spoiled brat that railed against perceived wrongs done to her. I don't know if she was really justified in her feelings since I couldn't get beyond her idea of vengeance.

The story does involve a spirit trying to take over Reiko in the present trying to wreck havoc on all those surrounding her. She also travels back into this spirit's time period and finds someone not unlike her who ends up trying to relive her bloody vengeance. At one point neither Reiko or the reader knows where one ends and the other begins and this is where she is forced to either complete the spirit's mission or find it within herself to find herself and who she wants to be in life. What I found frustrating with this part is that she knew it was history, talked about going to find out what happened and then never followed through. I so wanted to shake her at times and couldn't wait for her to wise up and figure things out like you already knew she... well... knew!

The ending was a bit too easy and a bit quick for the buildup but it was complete. She even looked at her other relationships and figured out where she fit in the most important ones. We also finally find out what she really did in her relationship that started her on this path.

I give this book 3 stars. I like the worldbuilding and the aspects of the characters. While I had problems with Reiko's character, she did grow and I did like that aspect. Things were too easily wrapped up but were complete. I think this ends up evening out the book and is a good book for the October season.

Audiobook Review: The Curse of the Tenth Grave by Darynda Jones

Narrator: Lorelei King
Series: Charley Davidson #10
10 hrs. 40 min.
Unabridged
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Published: 6/28/16
Source: Library

As a Part-time PI and fulltime grim reaper, Charley Davidson has asked a lot of questions throughout her life: Why can I see dead people? Who is the hot supernatural entity following me? How do I get gum out of my sister’s hair before she wakes up? But, “How do I trap not one malevolent god, but three?” was never among them. Until now. And since those gods are on earth to kill her daughter, she has little choice but to track them down, trap them, and cast them from this dimension. 

There’s just one problem. One of the three stole her heart a very long time ago. Can the Razer, a god of absolute death and destruction, change his omniscient spots, or will his allegiances lie with his brothers? 

Those are just a few of the questions Charley must answer, and quick. Add to that a homeless girl running for her life, an innocent man who’s been charged with murder, and a pendant made from god glass that has the entire supernatural world in an uproar, and Charley has her hands full. If she can manage to take care of the whole world-destroying-gods thing, we’re saved. If not, well…

My thoughts:

Finally got to this one! I wasn't disappointed either. :D I did become worried about Reyes when a lot of people who had read/listened to this one before me was complaining about him being less that forthcoming. I didn't want a stupid misunderstanding to get in the way of this couple (that is usually how it goes). Luckily my fears were unfounded. While there was miscommunication, it was cleared for our couple and for the reader.

Oh so much was clarified! We got to know more details about what is going on and yet there are still more mysteries to be had. I think what I really loved about this one is how much more confident Charley feels to me. She is still learning what she is and who she is because of it, but she really is accepting of those parts as they come and is learning to use her powers. I think I really like this Charley. I cannot wait to see what comes next and I cannot wait to get to know Beep. I have a feeling she will be more than a handful to both parents. :)

I also swear that if Lorelei King stops narrating this series, I might have to read them instead of listening to them. I don't say that often, but she is the voice of Charley and does such an excellent job of the other characters. I think it would be too jarring for me to hear anyone else narrate it. If you haven't tried this one on audio, do try it. I think you'll love it. Might also be the series to get you into audiobooks. :D

I give this book 4 stars and highly recommend it to those that love UF and snarky humor.

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.

It Happened one Dooms Day by Laurence MacNaughton

Series: A Dru Jasper Novel #1
280 p.
Publisher: Pyr
Published: 7/12/16
Source: from publisher for review

Can her magic save the world — before his curse destroys it? 

Magic is real. Only a handful of natural-born sorcerers can wield its arcane power against demons, foul creatures, and the forces of darkness. These protectors of the powerless are descendants of an elite order. The best magic-users in the world.

Unfortunately, Dru isn’t one of them. 

Sure, she’s got a smidge of magical potential. She can use crystals to see enchantments or brew up an occasional potion. And she can research practically anything in the library of dusty leather-bound tomes she keeps stacked in the back of her little store. There, sandwiched between a pawn shop and a 24-hour liquor mart, she sells enough crystals, incense, and magic charms to scrape by. But everything changes the day a handsome mechanic pulls up in a possessed black muscle car, his eyes glowing red. 

Just being near Greyson raises Dru’s magical powers to dizzying heights. But he’s been cursed to transform into a demonic creature that could bring about the end of the world.

Then she discovers that the Harbingers, seven fallen sorcerers, want to wipe the planet clean of humans and install themselves as new lords of an unfettered magical realm. And when they unearth the Apocalypse Scroll, the possibility of a fiery cosmic do-over suddenly becomes very real.

There’s only one chance to break Greyson’s curse and save the world from a fiery Doomsday – and it’s about to fall into Dru’s magically inexperienced hands...

My thoughts:

Set in Denver, CO and sounded like it had humor in it, I decided to read this one. I have to admit I was not captivated by the cover at first glance, but didn't mind it when I really looked at it. I guess it wasn't eye-catching enough for me personally.

This is a short book, but as I was reading it the characters bothered me. I couldn't put my finger on it until I realized that the characters all seemed a bit juvenile to me. Their attitude spoke to me more of YA characters where you are expected to be not just less confident but are still at the start of learning about themselves. When I sort of made the switch in my brain the book worked better for me, but I admit, it still bothered me somewhat. I suspect that this won't be an issue for most people reading the book but I thought I should mention it since it does affect my star rating.

The book humor didn't give me loud laughs but I did smile. It was a fun and interesting adventure and I did like the characters despite my niggle about their behavior. I really liked Hellbringer, the car (yes, the car) who didn't have much to do in the book overall, but made me very curious as to how sentient the car had become and where the character would go. The group tackles the main adventure and it feels complete. However, this is no simple ending. While I appreciate an arc that was introduced at the end, I did not like the cliffie provided. Ugh... give me some closure in one of the storylines, or at least a bigger hint at the status of one of the characters. Don't want to say more or I'll spoil it.

I give this book 3 stars. It is an entertaining book and a short one. I recommend it to those looking for a fast read full of the 4 horsemen, peril, some romance and some questions at the end.

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.

Audiobook Review: The Dirt on Ninth Grave by Darynda Jones

Series: Charley Davidson #9
Narrator: Lorelei King
10 hrs. 11 min.
Unabridged
Published: 1/5/16
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Source: Library

In a small village in New York Charley Davidson is living as Jane Doe, a girl with no memory of who she is or where she came from. So when she is working at a diner and slowly begins to realize she can see dead people, she's more than a little taken aback. Stranger still are the people entering her life. They seem to know things about her. Things they hide with lies and half-truths. Soon, she senses something far darker. A force that wants to cause her harm, she is sure of it. Her saving grace comes in the form of a new friend she feels she can confide in and the fry cook, a devastatingly handsome man whose smile is breathtaking and touch is scalding. He stays close, and she almost feels safe with him around. 

But no one can outrun their past, and the more lies that swirl around her-even from her new and trusted friends-the more disoriented she becomes, until she is confronted by a man who claims to have been sent to kill her. Sent by the darkest force in the universe. A force that absolutely will not stop until she is dead. Thankfully, she has a Rottweiler. But that doesn't help in her quest to find her identity and recover what she's lost. That will take all her courage and a touch of the power she feels flowing like electricity through her veins. She almost feels sorry for him. The devil in blue jeans. The disarming fry cook who lies with every breath he takes. She will get to the bottom of what he knows if it kills her. Or him. Either way.

My thoughts:

I almost couldn't wait for this book on audio. The ending for the last book left me reeling and I needed to know what was going on. Finally found time and the audio at the library (couldn't get it streaming, but had it on CD! WHEE!). And as with the other books in the series I found myself enjoying all the characters and the smaller mysteries Charley always seems to find even in this state (don't want to give too much away if you haven't read the others). Laughter as always (bathroom scene with horse... all I'm sayin') and quite a few "aw" moments with Reyes. *sigh* The end is quick and quite dark and no evil cliffies in this one. Of course the arc mystery only deepens and we must have the next book to find out what comes next (I've recently been accosted by great reviews of the next book which only makes me drool for it more. Hey! Library! Get on the job and get me the next audio pronto!).

As I said, this gave you the answers you were seeking from the last awful cliffie (I hate all cliffies, no exceptions) but doesn't answer all questions in the story arc. I give this book 4 1/2 stars and need the next audio NOW. :D I highly recommend this seres for those that love a good UF/PNR, humor and mystery. Also, I highly recommend them on audio and I love Lorelei King's narration and that has made me want to do the whole series on audio.

This Savage Song by Victoria Schwab

Series: Monsters of Verity #1
464 p.
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
Published: 7/5/16
Source: From Edelweiss and publisher for review

There’s no such thing as safe in a city at war, a city overrun with monsters. In this dark urban fantasy from author Victoria Schwab, a young woman and a young man must choose whether to become heroes or villains—and friends or enemies—with the future of their home at stake. The first of two books. 

Kate Harker and August Flynn are the heirs to a divided city—a city where the violence has begun to breed actual monsters. All Kate wants is to be as ruthless as her father, who lets the monsters roam free and makes the humans pay for his protection. All August wants is to be human, as good-hearted as his own father, to play a bigger role in protecting the innocent—but he’s one of the monsters. One who can steal a soul with a simple strain of music. When the chance arises to keep an eye on Kate, who’s just been kicked out of her sixth boarding school and returned home, August jumps at it. But Kate discovers August’s secret, and after a failed assassination attempt the pair must flee for their lives.

My thoughts:

This has an interesting world where humans create the monsters by their heinous acts and then are preyed on by their creations. While we know this, we do not really see the connection to their actions until we were told. I would have liked to have felt that aspect of this world more, but it still was interesting.

August Flynn is also a monster, but of a special sort. He seems to have more free will than the others and can affect his behavior by his choices more than the rest. He befriends Kate Harker who is the daughter of his rival and who is also a heartless human. Like every good YA romance, there is a spark but neither knows what it will do to the other. They both start to care for others outside of themselves and both transform. There is an HEA of sorts at the end, but not the one you usually expect. Also there are a few twists that I did not expect as we follow our two main characters. It is an interesting mystery and the door is wide open for the next book but this one does NOT end with a cliffie. YaY!

I give this book 4 stars. It was an unexpected surprise and these monsters come out of the nightmares of our own making. I highly recommend it to those that enjoy YA fantasy with a dark edge to it.

Masks and Shadows by Stephanie Burgis

Standalone
300 p.
Publisher: Pyr
Published: 4/12/16
Source: From publisher for review

The year is 1779, and Carlo Morelli, the most renowned castrato singer in Europe, has been invited as an honored guest to Eszterháza Palace. With Carlo in Prince Nikolaus Esterházy's carriage, ride a Prussian spy and one of the most notorious alchemists in the Habsburg Empire. Already at Eszterháza is Charlotte von Steinbeck, the very proper sister of Prince Nikolaus's mistress. Charlotte has retreated to the countryside to mourn her husband's death. Now, she must overcome the ingrained rules of her society in order to uncover the dangerous secrets lurking within the palace's golden walls. Music, magic, and blackmail mingle in a plot to assassinate the Habsburg Emperor and Empress--a plot that can only be stopped if Carlo and Charlotte can see through the masks worn by everyone they meet.

My thoughts:

Oh the cover intrigued me and so did the blurb and yet I really didn't know what to expect in this book. I just knew it was about a historical setting, opera, and lots of music... and a bit of the paranormal thrown in. Yea, I knew this one would be for me.

The book goes through several POVs but what was confusing at first was just remembering who was who and that would have been a problem for me if it was only one POV. Quickly, it did settle in my head enough that the book took off and then shortly after that I had all the players securely in my head.

A mystery flows through the book and we know that the Prince is a big part of it. However, what is being planned and how much damage will be wrought? There is an undercurrent of secret society with a demon at it's center but those things tended to stay at the periphery until the end. The end culminates with the mystery surrounding the story, music and a whole lot of explosive magic. It was a complete ending.

I enjoyed that aspect of the story but what really captured me was the romance between Carlo a castrato and Charlotte who was newly widowed. Both have let society dictate their lives and both have suffered for it. They also need to learn to trust and it is hard trusting one another. However, I really was impressed with Charlotte shunning the drama for truth and that helped the romance move forward. I didn't quite see why Carlo loved Charlotte as much as I was able to see the reverse, but it didn't matter as I was still swept up in their romance. This part of the story really moved the rest of the mystery along more than the other POVs in the story.

I give this book 4 stars. I really enjoyed the historical setting, the feel of Hyden's music, and the mystery behind it all. I recommend it to those that love historical mystery fiction with a bit of paranormal at the fringes.

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.

The Lost Soul of Lord Badewyn by Mia Marlowe

Series: The Order of the MUSE #3
255 p.
Publisher: Entangled: Select Historical
Published: 11/23/15
Source: Publisher and NetGalley for review

He vowed to never fall in love... 

Meg Anthony was never raised a lady. Instead, she grew up amongst grifters who used her unique "finding" ability for their own selfish purposes. Recently, she's been taken under the wing of the Duke of Camden and the Order of M.U.S.E., learning not only the fine art of becoming a lady, but how to use her extraordinary talent to help others. 

But Meg's gift is a beacon to unsavory characters who would possess her. 

Charged with her protection, Lord Badewyn knows--too well--that his wild, Welsh castle is no safe haven for this lovely, all-too-desirable creature. Part human, part fallen angel, he is one of the Nephilim. He is a recluse sworn never to love. As the dangers to Meg grow more threatening, he cannot help but find himself tempted beyond all reason...and tested to see if he has both a heart and a soul.

My thoughts:

I didn't realize that this was the third book in a series, but knowing me, that doesn't stop me from diving into a book. I occasionally wondered if I had missed other books because the characters needed no introduction and were quite familiar with each others stories. Despite this, I was not lost and had no problems not reading the other two books. My problem now is that I want to read those other two books. :)

I was in the mood for a historical romantic fiction which made me curious about this one. When I realized it had a paranormal element to it, I was sold. I was also not disappointed in any of these themes. It was also not terribly original and you already knew the outcomes of what would happen. It didn't matter, it was a fun read. I liked the characters and although I found myself connecting less with Lord Badewyn (Samuel) I still rooted for him. I did connect with Meg and found her interesting once the "lady" facade was taken away from her. Before that I just couldn't get a handle on her character.

I give this book 4 stars. If you are looking for a fun PNR with a side of historical reference, then this book may be for you. I can't wait to go back and read the other two books I missed before this one.

A Thousand Nights by E. K. Johnston

Standalone
336 p.
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Published: Oct. 6, 15
Source: NetGalley and publisher for review

Lo-Melkhiin killed three hundred girls before he came to her village, looking for a wife. When she sees the dust cloud on the horizon, she knows he has arrived. She knows he will want the loveliest girl: her sister. She vows she will not let her be next. 

And so she is taken in her sister's place, and she believes death will soon follow. Lo-Melkhiin's court is a dangerous palace filled with pretty things: intricate statues with wretched eyes, exquisite threads to weave the most beautiful garments. She sees everything as if for the last time.But the first sun rises and sets, and she is not dead. Night after night, Lo-Melkhiin comes to her and listens to the stories she tells, and day after day she is awoken by the sunrise. Exploring the palace, she begins to unlock years of fear that have tormented and silenced a kingdom. Lo-Melkhiin was not always a cruel ruler. Something went wrong. 

Far away, in their village, her sister is mourning. Through her pain, she calls upon the desert winds, conjuring a subtle unseen magic, and something besides death stirs the air. 

Back at the palace, the words she speaks to Lo-Melkhiin every night are given a strange life of their own. Little things, at first: a dress from home, a vision of her sister. With each tale she spins, her power grows. Soon she dreams of bigger, more terrible magic: power enough to save a king, if she can put an end to the rule of a monster.

My thoughts:
I do enjoy retellings and having A Thousand and One Nights Scheherazade's tale was one I could not pass up. I couldn't wait to get into the book. I also could tell from the beginning that this would be different since the protagonist self-sacrifices herself so others (not just her sister) would be spared this death. Since she goes to her fate willingly, Lo-Melkhiin does not kill her and tries to unravel the mystery before him.

The book is a bit slow at first but this is necessary to the telling of this tale. We need background and a good buildup of the settings where the book takes place. We also have a mystery that slowly unravels which brings you through the slow parts. When some of the mystery is better known (not solved) then the pace of the book picks up. It is really the woman's book (I'm assuming Scheherazade since her name was never given) and her journey not just in the magic realm, but of self discovery. About finding the power within her that has nothing to do with magic and everything to do with bravery and compassion.

I give this book 4 stars. I really enjoyed this retelling. I didn't love the ending. It was almost too sweet but yet it still felt complete. I also didn't hate the ending so it didn't change my mind about the book. I recommend it to those that enjoy retellings and magic.

Audiobook Review: The Skull Throne by Peter V. Brett and Crafty Things...

Series: Demon Cycle #4
Narrated by: Pete Bradbury
Unabridged
25 hrs. 14 min.
Publisher: Recorded Books
Published: 3/31/15
Source: LibraryThing Early Reviewers

The Skull Throne of Krasia stands empty. 

Built from the skulls of fallen generals and demon princes, it is a seat of honor and ancient, powerful magic, keeping the demon corelings at bay. From atop the throne, Ahmann Jardir was meant to conquer the known world, forging its isolated peoples into a unified army to rise up and end the demon war once and for all. 

But Arlen Bales, the Warded Man, stood against this course, challenging Jardir to a duel he could not in honor refuse. Rather than risk defeat, Arlen cast them both from a precipice, leaving the world without a savior, and opening a struggle for succession that threatens to tear the Free Cities of Thesa apart. 

In the south, Inevera, Jardir’s first wife, must find a way to keep their sons from killing each other and plunging their people into civil war as they strive for glory enough to make a claim on the throne. 

In the north, Leesha Paper and Rojer Inn struggle to forge an alliance between the duchies of Angiers and Miln against the Krasians before it is too late. 

Caught in the crossfire is the duchy of Lakton—rich and unprotected, ripe for conquest.
All the while, the corelings have been growing stronger, and without Arlen and Jardir there may be none strong enough to stop them. Only Renna Bales may know more about the fate of the missing men, but she, too, has disappeared. . .

My thoughts:

25 hrs. Yes, 25 hours and 20 disks with this book. Like the other books I wondered if it would have been better to actually make this into a few books. Ones where other characters get to shine and we get to know them better. We do this here but it is in the middle of what we want to know. In fact there are at least 4 separate stories here and you could even distill that down further.

As I was frustrated with the last book, my frustration didn't end here. I thought I would be getting more Arlen, Jardir, and Renna's adventure. I did but not much of it. Or it felt like it wasn't much. I can tell you that my frustrations were put off by the audiobook. The narration by Pete Bradbury was excellent and kept my interest through the frustration. My only complaint with the audio is that there were too many lengthy pauses. In other words, the pauses were just a bit too long. Other than that (and granted it probably wasn't the narrator but the director's fault), I would recommend this narrator to anyone. He really kept me in the book for the whole duration.

The book seemed to be a solid 3 for me for almost all of it. I was never sold on Leesha's new romance but I did love Rojer's storyline. I did like going back to know more of the secondary characters but still, I would have liked it in it's own separate book. The end, however, changed all of that for me. A character died that would have kept me in the book and when we FINALLY got back to Arlen, Jardir and Renna... the book ends. No cliffie since you fell off that cliff and then realized it was the end of the road. Only kind of ending I hate more than a cliffie (although you can technically call it that, but you know there is a cliff hanger not just a feeling of... "wait a minute!" *sigh*). So, I give this book 2 1/2 stars. The audio was interesting but I'm not sure if I will continue this one. And this comes from someone who wants to know the storyline where the book ended.

I thought I'd try something a bit different. Since I said in this post that I like to craft when I listen to audiobooks. I made these bags when I was crafting to this audio.

The Butterfly Sling by Emmaline Patterns (and I started another one)

Reusable Grocery Bag by Two Pretty Poppets

Happy listening and crafting! :D

The Daylight War by Peter V. Brett

Series: Demon Cycle #3
639 p.
Published: 2/12/13
Publisher: Random House Del Ray
Source: Library

On the night of the new moon, the demons rise in force, seeking the deaths of two men both of whom have the potential to become the fabled Deliverer, the man prophesied to reunite the scattered remnants of humanity in a final push to destroy the demon corelings once and for all. 

Arlen Bales was once an ordinary man, but now he has become something more—the Warded Man, tattooed with eldritch wards so powerful they make him a match for any demon. Arlen denies he is the Deliverer at every turn, but the more he tries to be one with the common folk, the more fervently they believe. Many would follow him, but Arlen’s path threatens to lead him to a dark place he alone can travel to, and from which there may be no returning. 

The only one with hope of keeping Arlen in the world of men, or joining him in his descent into the world of demons, is Renna Tanner, a fierce young woman in danger of losing herself to the power of demon magic. 

Ahmann Jardir has forged the warlike desert tribes of Krasia into a demon-killing army and proclaimed himself Shar’Dama Ka, the Deliverer. He carries ancient weapons--a spear and a crown--that give credence to his claim, and already vast swaths of the green lands bow to his control. 

But Jardir did not come to power on his own. His rise was engineered by his First Wife, Inevera, a cunning and powerful priestess whose formidable demon bone magic gives her the ability to glimpse the future. Inevera’s motives and past are shrouded in mystery, and even Jardir does not entirely trust her. 

Once Arlen and Jardir were as close as brothers. Now they are the bitterest of rivals. As humanity’s enemies rise, the only two men capable of defeating them are divided against each other by the most deadly demons of all--those lurking in the human heart.

My thoughts:

Warning: There will be some small spoilers if you haven't read the first 2 books.

I was hoping that the romance I didn't like would present itself differently in this book. While Leesha's romance or choices rather seemed to work for me, Arlen's romance still didn't feel right nor did it feel like a true love romance. I think if there wasn't a possible romance between Leesha and Arlen I believe I would have had no problems with his romance but because of his former pairing with Leesha it just didn't gel for me. It would have made more sense if he had some sort of relationship with Renna prior to his relationship now, but there really wasn't more than a single meeting when he was a child. I also think that Arlen's failed romance with Leesha got in my way of really connecting to Renna. That is a shame since Renna is a character I would normally LOVE.

My other problem is with how the character of Leesha was written. You know those movies where the woman who is capable and skilled (as much or more than the men surrounding her) but ends up fighting the other lone woman on the "bad" side who has 1/10 of her ability? Then the heroine suddenly forgets her skills and can barely keep up with the other woman only to barely beat her in a fight? Yea, it was like that. Leesha had skills and learned at the foot of 2 great women who knew how to rule but then when it came to really ruling she faltered... badly. It was upsetting but I totally give her props on how she handled learning of Arlen and Renna. Almost made up for the rest of what was done to her character.

You might now think I hated the book. I didn't at all. I loved how the secondary characters got more filling out and more book time. I really loved the way Rojer came into his own and is really becoming a man. I also can see that we are again set up for Leesha to rule and rule well. I also loved Invera. Okay, love is way too strong as she is a manipulative witch but I really loved that her complexity came out in this book. I didn't like her but I did respect her more. I'm very curious as to how she grows in the next book.

I give this book 3 stars. While I did have several problems with the characterization of both Leesha and Arlen, I did enjoy how the others grew and also how the worldbuilding is evolving. Things are getting more dangerous and it looks like the demons realize they are up against more than they previously bargained. With smart demons like that I can see how the next installment will have me on the edge of my seat.

The Desert Spear by Peter V. Brett

Series: Demon Cycle #2
579 p.
Published: 4/13/10
Publisher: Del Ray
Source: Library

The sun is setting on humanity. The night now belongs to voracious demons that arise as the sun sets, preying upon a dwindling population forced to cower behind ancient and half-forgotten symbols of power. These wards alone can keep the demons at bay, but legends tell of a Deliverer: a general-some would say prophet-who once bound all mankind into a single force that defeated the demons. Those times, if they ever existed, are long past. The demons are back, and the return of the Deliverer is just another myth . . . or is it?

My thoughts:

I was not sure if I would enjoy this book. I knew it was mostly about Jardir who in the first book was a total jerk. I wasn't sure if I wanted to soften to this character and that often happens when we get their story. Well, I need not worry. While I did soften a bit and found he wasn't just a jerk he still was responsible for the decisions he made. I did enjoy learning more about this character... I will admit that. :)

I was happy when we got more about the other characters of Leesha, Arlen and Rojer. I think Rojer shines more in this book than the last but I had a few problems with Leesha and Arlen. I didn't have those problems until the last of the book however. I did enjoy their journey which did seem to lead them into learning more about themselves and the world around them. I was happy we got more of that but then they started making romantic decisions that just didn't set right with me and ended with me just saying... "NO!"

However...

This also peaked my interest. If the author sets things back to right or at least convinces me that these decisions hold a greater value or at least make sense in a much less impulsive way than I will sing this author's praises. I do actually think there is a chance of that and I know that there is a purpose here that is leading to something else. You can see the intention so I must know where this leads. Yes, even though I was upset with the ending, I want to know more.

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I might have given it just a 3 but the story kept me interested and I'm still curious about how the story will progress despite the problems I had with this book. I recommend it to those that enjoy adult fantasy.

Angelfall by Susan Ee

Series: Penryn & the End of Days #1
288 p.
Published: 8/28/15
Publisher: Skyscape
Source: NetGalley for review

It's been six weeks since the angels of the apocalypse destroyed the world as we know it. Only pockets of humanity remain.

Savage street gangs rule the day while fear and superstition rule the night.

When angels fly away with a helpless girl, her seventeen-year-old sister Penryn will do anything to get her back...

My thoughts:
I've heard about this one for quite a while. People raved about it and so my curiosity grew. I decided to wait until more of the series came out but I couldn't wait any longer when this one came up on NetGalley. Yea, okay, I want to read this one!

I have to admit that it took me a bit to really get into the story. We are thrown into the dystopian landscape without much fanfare. Questions abound but as you follow Penryn and she finds her mission, it is easy to slip within these pages and find yourself worried about her and even her angel friend... even if we don't know for sure if he is a friend.

While it still felt as if I wanted a bit more explanation of what was going on, a bit more exploration into this world, I was still engaged and had trouble putting the book down. It's only more than a couple of hundred pages and those pages go fast. I would have loved a much longer book by the end of this one. While it wasn't exactly a cliffie, it left much uncertainty for the next book. 600 pg book (or more)? Please... if it is good, no problems here! :D Most of you reading this would feel the same way. Oh well, I guess I have to locate the next book.

I give this book 4 stars. It was engaging and just enough possible romance to satisfy those that crave it. It didn't concentrate on it because there was so much action, so I would consider this one more YA UF than PNR. I also recommend it to those that enjoy dystopian books.

Review and Giveaway: The Warded Man by Peter V. Brett

Series: Demon Cycle #1
453 p.
Publisher: Random House
Published: 3/23/15
Source: TBR pile

As darkness falls after sunset, the corelings rise--demons who possess supernatural powers and burn with a consuming hatred of humanity. For hundreds of years the demons have terrorized the night, slowly culling the human herd that shelters behind magical wards--symbols of power whose origins are lost in myth and whose protection is terrifyingly fragile. It was not always this way. Once, men and women battled the corelings on equal terms, but those days are gone. Night by night the demons grow stronger, while human members dwindle under their relentless assault. Now, with hope for the future fading, three young survivors of vicious demon attacks will dare the impossible, stepping beyond the crumbling safety of the wards to risk everything in a desperate quest to regain the secrets of the past. Together, they will stand against the night.

My thoughts:
I've been wanting to try this book for a while now. I won this one and a few extras to giveaway (stay tuned at the end of the post). I wasn't exactly sure what to expect but I know that several of my fantasy loving bloggy friends did enjoy this one. I couldn't wait to dive in.

I find myself in this story between 3 POVs. It isn't hard to discern one from the other and I knew there had to be a reason we were following 3. We mostly get the tale of Arlen and since this is really his story it makes sense. Plus his journey is the most complicated one. The other POVs were Leesha (healer) and and Rojer (entertainer). I knew they would all come together in the end since we see that each prospective journeys would complement each other greatly. In some ways I couldn't wait to see them together and in others I didn't mind waiting patiently while the story unfolded. I was glad I waited.

This is a character driven book even though the worldbuilding is lush. It isn't bogged down by politics but is driven by the coming of age stories of all 3 characters. We learn what they fear and how each finds who they truly are in the world. How they learn to cherish their gifts and what it could mean not only for themselves but also for the world. It was a great beginning to this adventure.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. While you might come across a small plot hole or two in the worldbuilding the characterization comes through and really shines in the story. Plus often those holes are filled as the series progresses. While I can't wait to continue reading in this series I'm hesitant since the next book is about a character we were introduced and I did not like at all (but then you really weren't supposed to like him). I do think it will turn out to be another great addition but I do hope he gets his butt kicked. LOL

Yes, since I was given more than one book I'm giving 2 away! US only (sorry postal charges!). I do think this is a fantasy even those that don't often read this genre will enjoy. Just fill out the rafflecopter form below to enter! Good luck!

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison

Series: The Hollows #1
416 p.
Publisher: Harper Torch
Published: 7/1/04
Source: TBR pile

All the creatures of the night gather in "the Hollows" of Cincinnati, to hide, to prowl, to party ... and to feed. 

Vampires rule the darkness in a predator-eat-predator world rife with dangers beyond imagining -- and it's Rachel Morgan's job to keep that world civilized. 

A bounty hunter and witch with serious sex appeal and an attitude, she'll bring 'em back alive, dead ... or undead.

My thoughts:

I have to admit that I had trouble really getting into the worldbuilding in this book at first. I even had trouble with liking Rachel Morgan the main character and her vampire friend Ivy. I did love the pixie Jenks and his family from the start which helped me with the other characters as I read more into the story. Despite my problems, there was just enough to interest me and keep me going. I was glad I continued and the story really took off for me about half way through. It kept growing on me from there and I ended up liking all the characters. I also started liking the worldbuilding but I still have some small quibbles with it which will probably solve itself as the series goes along. That happens a lot with fantasy and urban fantasy.

I didn't like the possible romance presented in this book. However, it is UF and romance isn't usually the star in books like this. Romance often takes it's time and needs a few books to really get established. It might happen here, it might not. So therefore I'm not too concerned about this potential romantic entanglement.

I give this first book 3 1/2 stars. I can see the potential here and I have a feeling that this is a series that will get better as it goes along. I recommend it to those that enjoy UF and want something witchy for their read. I can't wait to continue this series.