Review: Flesh and Bones

Flesh and Bones

Paul Levine

Series or Stand Alone: Jack Lassiter series, book seven

Release Date: January 1997 (hardcover)

Publisher: William Morrow & Company (hardcover)

Pages: 320 (hardcover)

Author Site: http://www.paul-levine.com/content/index.asp

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Received for review from author (e-book)

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

“I was sitting at the end of the bar sipping single-malt Scotch when I spotted the tall blond woman with the large green eyes and the small gray gun.”

The next thing Jake Lassiter knows, the woman pumps three bullets into the man on the next barstool.

And Jake, the linebacker-turned-lawyer, has a new client.

She’s stunning model Chrissy Bernhardt, and the dead man is her wealthy father. The defense? Chrissy claims that she’s recently recovered repressed memories of having been sexually abused by her father. Jake wants to believe her but suspects that the memories were either implanted by a shady psychiatrist or fabricated by Chrissy herself. Complicating the situation, Jake falls for his client, clouding his judgment. Is she an anguished victim or a cold-blooded killer? And what about her brother, who stands to inherit a fortune if Chrissy goes to prison? Jake wades into a quagmire of dirty water deals, big money, and family corruption, all leading to an explosive finale.

Review:

I accepted this book as apart of a blog tour (that I failed miserably to meet) because the synopsis sounded pretty decent. I hadn't read any other book by Paul Levine and Flesh and Bones is the seventh book in a series. I'm not a huge crime/legal novel lover but I found Flesh and Bones to be very enjoyable! The beginning of the novel sets up the plot and goes through introductions which was a bit slow for my tastes. Jake is an ex-Miami Dolphin  football player who now spends his time defending the citizens of south Florida. He's sitting in a bar when a beautiful woman comes in, shoots her father, and then faints into Jake's arms. Sounds exciting but I wasn't as sucked in as I wanted to be...

Eventually I found myself immersed with the story as Jake's case goes to trial. I'm so glad I stuck with the story because I found I really liked Jake's character and I really liked the writing skill of the author. He had a very warm and caring personality that surprised me. I also loved the fact that Chrissy was obviously guilty for shooting her father and Jake had to find a way to keep her from a prison sentence. I admit I rolled my eyes when the two of them became romantically involved...but again Jake's character (and Chrissy's) surprised me and I quickly warmed up to the idea of them becoming an item. The court scenes were totally engrossing and I really appreciated all the twists in the plot. I had to keep guessing and I like that about a novel!

Flesh and Bones is number seven in the Jake Lassister series and although there were some references to some background information it can still be read as a comfortable stand alone novel. I'll be checking out the rest of the books in the series and I'm interested in reading Paul Levine's other books. I think a lot of legal thriller fans will like Flesh and Bones so I definitely recommend giving this one a go =)

 

Review: Bedbugs

Bedbugs

Ben H. Winters

Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone

Release Date: September 2011

Publisher: Quirk Books

Pages: 256 (paperback)

Author Site: http://www.benhwinters.com/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Received for review from publisher

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

 
FOR RENT: Top two floors of beautifully renovated brownstone, 1300 sq. ft., 2BR 2BA, eat-in kitchen, one block to parks and playgrounds. No broker’s fee.

Susan and Alex Wendt have found their dream apartment.

Sure, the landlady is a little eccentric. And the elderly handyman drops some cryptic remarks about the basement. But the rent is so low, it’s too good to pass up.

Big mistake. Susan soon discovers that her new home is crawling with bedbugs . . . or is it? She awakens every morning with fresh bites, but neither Alex nor their daughter Emma has a single welt. An exterminator searches the property and turns up nothing. The landlady insists her building is clean. Susan fears she’s going mad—until a more sinister explanation presents itself: she may literally be confronting the bedbug problem from Hell.

Review:

Bedbugs is creepy, creepy, creepy! But oh so good... It isn't just a thriller/horror story. Bedbugs instills a sense of paranoia that I found frightening. The reader doesn't quite know whether to trust the state of mind of the main character which always makes an interesting read.

The characters were very realistic, which I appreciated. Susan has recently left her legal aid job to pursue her artistic dreams while leaving it to her husband, Alex, to take care of the financial obligations. They have a young daughter, Emma, who is very bright and energetic. A nanny comes by to help Susan so she can concentrate on the housework and her artwork. The family has been trying to find the right place to move to for some time and they find their dream apartment when they least expect it. I liked the landlord and her eccentricity...but there are sinister things going on in "too-good-to-be-true-land". Susan's family, her life, and her sanity are soon in a danger Susan never, ever thought to encounter.

I admit I was a little annoyed by all the modern references, especially in the beginning of the book. I felt the author didn't need to constantly name everything the characters used, i.e. Craigslist,  Ray-Bans, Facebook, etc  I just didn't feel that I needed to know every brand name the author could slap onto the pages...It was just unncessary in my opinion...But I quickly got over it as I got more into the plot of the story. I loved how realistic everything was. Bed bugs are scary, period. The stigma concerning bed bugs is very real and I hate to admit I may even contribute to it. I liked how the reader was able to witness all of suffering that took place in Susan's life and her relationships because of what was happening to her. There are many points in the story where Susan's state of mind is (with good reason) questioned. I couldn't help but imagine what I would do in her position and I honestly didn't even want to...

The ending was very good, I wasn't quite expecting it...I liked that I was kept on the "edge of my seat" during parts of the story. I'm a fan of Ben's work. It's unique and different and I like that. I'm looking forward to seeing what he dishes out next. I think Bedbugs will be a smashing hit with thriller fans...it will leave you itching for more...!! Haha, sorry I had to do it =D

Review & Giveaway: Being

Being

T.R. Mousner

Series or Stand Alone: Book one in a planned series

Release Date: March 2011

Publisher: Tamara Mousner

Pages/Format: .pdf ebook

Author Site: http://www.trmousner.com/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Received for review from author

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

For elite extraterrestrial pilot EBN-Reyoz-X, awaiting rescue while hiding out in a trailer park in Lancaster, California, is a grueling nightmare. She’s injured, lacks proper supplies and can’t blend in with the indigenous population because she’s seven feet tall and can’t control the trail of wildflowers blooming in the wake of her footsteps. She’s unprepared to begin sexual maturity in the alien land and when she develops feelings for Shale, the mute teenage boy next door, she’s convinced circumstances can get no worse.

Except rescue never comes and once word spreads that her touch holds miraculous healing abilities, EBN must find a way to fix her ship, evade capture by the United States Air Force and survive long enough to return home.

Review:

Although I have a lot of sci-fi books on my TBR I haven’t really had a chance to delve into the genre. Being succeeds in providing many of the reasons why I want to read sci-fi and reminds me to have an open mind when I read them. I enjoy books that are able to convey universal messages from the author with subtlety and grace. Being was mostly successful in not being too brash about environmental issues that should be important to every person living on Earth. Overall Being is a nice breathe of fresh air in the YA genre!

I also enjoyed how smooth the different POVs between EBN, Shale, and Aix went. EBN, while somewhat knowledgeable on Sent (human) life, is injured and completely alone after crash landing on Erox (Earth). After numerous unsuccessful attempts to contact her grand-Ada (grandfather) for a plan of rescue EBN copes by befriending Shale. Although she has broken many rules by getting involved with Shale and his sister, EBN begins to feel things she has never felt before. It was so easy to start to really care for EBN and her well-being as she struggled through each day.

Shale has his own issues to work through as he comes to term with his feelings for EBN. I found it fascinating how different Shale and EBN’s opinion of each other’s appearance was with the rest of the world. Both Shale and EBN were irresistibly drawn to each other and both were beautiful to the other person. The rest of the world found them weird, gawky, and too different. Their blossoming relationship was a very welcoming part of the book and one I really enjoyed.

I think my favorite character is Aix because I was more interested in his mission to finding the truth about EBN. He is brave and intelligent just like his sister and I felt his POV was more interesting. I say that because he’s back on Pharallax and his POV talks about his culture and the similarities/differences between Sent life and Adelian and Nadreen life. I love when authors are able to really step out of their comfort zones and create new worlds and ideas and still tie them in to modern life.

I’m looking forward to seeing what T.R. comes out with next regarding EBN. Being was exciting, different, and filled with loving values that will come across very easily. Love, family, and taking care of where we live is important to T.R. and her characters as it should be important to everybody. I think Being will be a real winner with YA and adult readers alike.

P.S. (cover talk)

While I’m not totally in love with it I think it goes along with the story nicely. I also know the cover has a special place in T.R.’s heart which is pretty cool.

Thanks to the lovely Tamara Mousner I have an ebook copy available for 1 winner!

To enter simply fill out this form!

Giveaway ends July 21st

Open Internationally

Good Luck!

Review: The Promises She Keeps

The Promises She Keeps

Erin Healy

Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone

Release Date: February 2011 (paperback)

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Pages: 352

Author Site: http://www.erinhealy.com/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Received for review from Phenix & Phenix Publicity

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

It's her destiny to die young. The man who loves her can't live with that.

Promise, a talented young vocalist with a terminal illness, is counting on fame to keep her memory alive after she dies. Porta is an aging witch and art collector in search of the goddess who will grant her immortality.

When Promise inexplicably survives a series of freak accidents, Porta believes that Promise is the one she seeks. But Chase, an autistic artist who falls in love with Promise and opposes Porta, comes between the women with his mysterious visions and drawings, and plunges everyone into a flesh-and-blood confrontation over the true meaning of eternal life.

Review:

I’ve noticed that Erin Healy’s novels are very different from most books I read. The paranormal elements she weaves into her stories are very unique. She writes characters that grab you emotionally and refuse to let go. Her plots, while very modern and relatable, always have an additional twist that makes it stand out. Her writing style is easy to follow but still extremely thought-provoking. I admire her ability to remain true to her faith and interweave it subtlety into her writing so as not to scare off the non-Christian fiction fan. I myself am not a big religion-based reader. However, I’ve found some really great Christian fiction that has been a real treat to read and all of the books I’ve read by Erin are in that group.

The Promises She Keeps is about many different things that are linked together. There are a few different story arcs happening but the primary one is the story of Promise. She wants nothing more than to make a name for herself before she dies and she’s counting on her vocal talent to pave the way. Promise has cystic fibrosis and is fighting it as best she can like all of her closest friends who share her illness.

Despite her ill health Promise survives numerous freak accidents that draw the attention of a local art gallery owner that is in search of immortality. Porta’s paranormal abilities as a witch can do nothing about the fact that she is aging and quickly coming to the end of her time. Porta slowly realizes the perfect way to get Promise and her apparent immortality in the form of her recluse son – Zach. Zach has mysteriously been with Promise on each of her deadly escapes and Porta will stop at nothing to get what she wants.

Meanwhile, Chase is an autistic artist who spends his time with his devoted twin sister Chelsea. Chase has a special sort of gift that comes out in his beautiful drawings and causes visions that lead him to Promise. He quickly falls in love with her and sets out to keep her safe and out of Porta’s hands. They are all eventually brought together in a very dangerous and life-altering confrontation that will test the very limit of their faith and mortality.

Now I would be lying if I told you that the book’s content wasn’t confusing at times. It takes some time getting used to if you’re not familiar with Erin’s work. I knew the story would make sense sooner rather than later. I was rewarded with a really thrilling story! I think Chase was my favorite character. I’m not personally involved with autism but I liked to read about his mannerisms and the way he acted. His artist abilities were amazing to read about and I was actually upset that I couldn’t visually see all the drawings he did. He had this strange and fascinating passion for trees that was a really interesting aspect of the story.

I admire the sacrifice Chelsea showed and the love she had for her twin brother. She was stubborn and hard-headed when it came to letting herself be happy though. I found Chelsea hard to really care about as a character. There were times when I sympathized with her and I did like her but she just wasn’t a favorite for some reason. Porta was truly an evil character. She was evil in the sense that she had little to no remorse for any of her actions. It was a great contrast to the good side of the story.

The Promises She Keeps is a book that will stay with long after you finish its pages. It’s emotionally driven with a lot of suspenseful moments. I enjoy Erin’s unique work and I have a feeling I always will.

P.S. (cover talk)

I like both covers I’ve seen. They both tie in to the book, which I absolutely love. If I had to choose I’d probably go with the green one since it’s sort of similar to Never Let You Go’s cover.

Review: A Vampire in Whitechapel

A Vampire in Whitechapel

Scarlet Blackwell

Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone

Release Date: February 2011

Publisher: Untreed Reads

Pages: 9 (eBook)

Author Site: http://scarletblackwell.com/default.aspx

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Received for review from publisher

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

A bloodsucker discovers he's not the only monster stalking the streets of Victorian London, when his nightly search for sustenance brings him face-to-face with the city's most notorious butcher - Jack the Ripper. A short story from our Spectres horror line.

Review:

My only prior knowledge to Jack the Ripper is from the movie From Hell with Johnny Depp and Heather Graham. I enjoyed the movie but didn’t really do any additional research on Jack the Ripper. But from the events portrayed in the movie I got a distinct sense of how horrible and graphic the killings were. A Vampire in Whitechapel features Abel, a vampire currently roaming the streets of London. He may be a vampire but he doesn’t kill unnecessarily. One night he comes across the gruesome scene of a murder victim. There’s a killer loose and murdering women in the most despicable way.

Abel finds himself questioning his own morals and actions in the face of such monstrous actions. While he is somewhat compassionate for the people of London he doesn’t know if he should interfere with the serial killer or not. He may be somewhat of a monster himself but he certainly frowns upon what Jack the Ripper is doing. In a chilling face-to-face confrontation with Jack, Abel looks into the eyes of a killer and sees what evil really looks like.

A Vampire in Whitechapel is one of the reasons I don’t enjoy short stories. However, this story was especially short, coming in at 9 pages. It wasn’t a bad story at all. I enjoyed Abel and his internal conflicts. I enjoyed the dirty and dark atmosphere that Scarlet was able to capture in her words. I just wanted more… Abel is a really great character and the entire story could have been fleshed out into a full blown novel in my opinion. Other than my personal problem with short stories,  A Vampire in Whitechapel was a quick (very quick) read that was enjoyable and engaging. I think any fan of Victorian London and Jack the Ripper will like it.

P.S. (cover talk)

It’s not dramatic or sharply done but I think it goes with the story pretty well. It has a bone-chilling type quality although the quality of work isn’t that ideal.

Robot Review: The Lipstick Laws

The Lipstick Laws

Amy Holder

Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone

Release Date: April 2011

Publisher: Graphia

Page Number: 240 (Paperback)

Author Site: http://www.amyholder.com/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Received for review from publisher for Rex Robot Reviews

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

 

At Penford High School, Britney Taylor is the queen bee. She dates whomever she likes, rules over her inner circle of friends like Genghis Khan, and can ruin anyone's life with a snap of perfectly manicured fingers. Just ask the unfortunate few who have crossed her. For April Bowers, Britney is also the answer to her prayers. April is so unpopular, kids don't even know she exists. But one lunch spent at Britney's table, and April is basking in the glow of popularity. But Britney's friendship comes with a high price tag. How much is April willing to pay?

Review:

April Bowers is pretty much invisible at Penford High School. It’s the beginning of her sophomore year and her best (and only) friend has moved away. She’s a compulsive bra-stuffer, currently cell-phone-less, and dreading the first day of school. But she soon finds herself sucked into the crazy world that is high school popularity when the Queen Bee, Britney Taylor, takes April under her wing. Britney gets absolutely any and everything she wants. She introduces April to the exclusive Lipstick Laws, which are a number of guidelines and rules to live by. But when April breaks one of the laws she’s quickly kicked to the curb and shunned by Britney, her clique, and most of the school. But April isn’t one to cower in the corner and cry about things. She is determined to get revenge, especially when Britney goes after April’s crush. No one messes with one’s crushes or exes…it’s in the Lipstick Laws!

To read the rest of my review click here!

Review: Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

Jane Austen & Seth Grahame-Smith

Series or Stand Alone: Pride and Prejudice and Zombies trilogy, book two

Release Date: September 2008

Publisher: Quirk Classics

Pages: 317

Author Site: http://twitter.com/sethgs , http://www.janeausten.org/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Received for review from publisher

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

"It is a truth universally acknowledged that a zombie in possession of brains must be in want of more brains."

So begins Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, an expanded edition of the beloved Jane Austen novel featuring all-new scenes of bone-crunching zombie mayhem. As our story opens, a mysterious plague has fallen upon the quiet English village of Meryton and the dead are returning to life! Feisty heroine Elizabeth Bennet is determined to wipe out the zombie menace, but she's soon distracted by the arrival of the haughty and arrogant Mr. Darcy.

What ensues is a delightful comedy of manners with plenty of civilized sparring between the two young lovers and even more violent sparring on the blood-soaked battlefield as Elizabeth wages war against hordes of flesh-eating undead.

Can she vanquish the spawn of Satan? And overcome the social prejudices of the class-conscious landed gentry? Complete with romance, heartbreak, swordfights, cannibalism, and thousands of rotting corpses, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies transforms a masterpiece of world literature into something you'd actually want to read.

Review:

So with three Quirk Classic books under my belt I have yet to read any original Jane Austen novel. I’ll be getting to the originals soon but I’m happy to report that PPZ (Pride and Prejudice and Zombies) seemed to give me a good idea of the original novel. Of course PPZ also provides zombie-slaying, brain-eating, and katana-wielding fun along the way. Having really enjoyed the prequel to PPZ, Dawn of the Dreadfuls, I felt pretty confident I would enjoy PPZ.

England is infested with the undead and the Bennet family is, luckily, very skilled in the deadly arts. Mrs. Bennet would love for nothing more than for all of her daughters to put down their weapons and worry about more pressing issues; such as dancing at balls, worrying about society, and getting married. Mr. Bennet on the other hand has no problem with all of his daughters defending England against the dreadfuls. Heroine Elizabeth Bennet is very independent and isn’t at all interested in gentleman or marriage. That is until Mr. Darcy comes into her life.

Darcy is arrogant and proud and isn’t afraid to let the world know. Elizabeth frankly can’t stand him. It doesn’t matter that he is one of the best zombie-slayers around or that he is devilishly handsome. She’d rather beat the crap out of Darcy then hear his haughty words on any topic. But things change throughout the story and Elizabeth might have been a little too prejudice towards him.

I’ve read many a review that says PPZ stayed pretty true to Austen’s classic. I felt I got a pretty good understanding of what the story was about minus the zombie infestation. I was pretty bummed at the lack of zombies actually. There were references here and there, kind of nonchalantly thrown in which definitely added fun to the story. But frankly I could have used some more zombie action. I don’t know if Grahame-Smith was afraid to tarnish or mess up a classic by adding too much zombie flavor into it. If so, I completely understand the hesitation. However, I think if you sign up to extend a classic novel with paranormal additions you might as well give it all you’ve got. *shrugs*

Bottom line: I liked PPZ. I actually think reading PPZ will help me enjoy the original Pride and Prejudice when I get the chance to read it. I’m looking forward to seeing the original interactions between Darcy and Elizabeth. I want to know more about Jane and Bingley. And I want to see how wicked Wickham originally was. I’m excited about reading the last book in the PPZ trilogy as well. The author who wrote the prequel (which was really funny) is writing the conclusion. Can’t wait =)

P.S. (cover talk)

Not my favorite out of the Quirk books but still, it’s enough to grab anyone’s attention.

Review: Token of Darkness

Token of Darkness

Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone

Release Date: January 2010

Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Pages: 197

Author Site: http://www.randomhouse.com/features/atwaterrhodes/home.htm

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Won from giveaway

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

Cooper Blake has everything going for him until he wakes from a car accident with his football career in ruins and a mysterious, attractive girl by his side. Cooper doesn't know how Samantha got there or why he can see her; all he knows is that she’s a ghost, and the shadows that surround her seem intent on destroying her.

No one from Cooper's old life would understand what he can barely grasp himself...but Delilah, the captain of the cheerleading squad, has secrets of her own, like her ability to see beyond the physical world, and her tangled history with Brent, a loner from a neighboring school who can hear strangers' most intimate thoughts. Delilah and Brent know that Cooper is in more trouble than he realizes, and that Samantha may not be as innocent as she has led Cooper to believe. But the only way to figure out where Samantha came from will put them all in more danger than they ever dreamed possible.
 

Review:

 
I remember first coming across Amelia’s books in my high school library. I wasn’t as big a reader back then as I am now, but I remember reading every one of her books I could find. I really enjoyed her Den of Shadows series and I even think I read a few of the books from the Kiesha’ra series as well. I don’t recall much from the books but Amelia’s name stayed with me as I started to become a more avid reader. So I was pretty confident I would enjoy Token of Darkness despite its so-so reviews.


It’s been several months since Cooper has woken up from a horrible car accident. His life has never been the same since that fateful summer night. Cooper has drifted far from his old football life, his old friends, and even his family. The only constant thing in his life at the moment is Samantha who happens to be a ghost. As soon as he woke up from the accident, Samantha was by his side. Neither of them knows why she’s there or where she came from. But she’s been a constant companion to Cooper as he recuperated from the accident and tried to put his life back together.

Cooper has isolated himself from everyone in his life. He basically gets up, works at his father’s coffee shop, goes to school, and then returns home. His family and friends try to give him as much time and room as possible but no one knows when Cooper will be okay again. Cooper is still struggling with nightmares of the accident and the injuries he sustained. Samantha and the mystery of her being tend to keep his mind off things. The two have been searching for a reason for her existence but have come up with nothing.

But everything changes when the head cheerleader and a loner from a nearby school take an interest in Cooper. Delilah and Brent have secret secrets of their own and share a complicated past. Each has different agendas as they set out to help Cooper figure out who Samantha is and where she came from. But none of them know how much danger lays ahead of them in their quest for answers.

The novel flowed very nicely and moved at a reasonable pace. But I found myself a little confused at times, whether that had to do with the plot or the writing style I’m not too sure. I liked the characters just fine but didn’t really feel any of them had a significant personality that stood out. I also had a tough time getting through the part about Samantha and who she really was. I felt more details were needed in the paranormal aspect of the story.

I think my favorite and least favorite part was the ending. I liked the things that happened and how everything tied together, but I felt everything was rushed and sort of thrown together. I wish the ending was given a little bit more focus and finesse. I definitely wouldn’t have minded a few extra chapters if the ending was fleshed out a little bit more.

Overall, this was a quick and enjoyable read. I liked the premise of the story even though I was somewhat confused at times. But I still think everything could have used more details and development. I’m planning on re-reading Amelia’s books so I can reacquaint myself with her older work. Like I said earlier, I remember enjoying them but can’t remember a thing about them. Go figure!

P.S. (cover talk)

I like the fact that Samantha is on the cover but I don’t like the overall effect. Maybe it’s too much blue and purple for me, I’m not too sure. I’m just not a big fan of this version of the cover.

ARC Review: Dark Song

Dark Song

Gail Giles

Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone

Release Date: September 2010

Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Pages: 292

Author Site: http://www.gailgiles.com/Welcome.html

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Won from giveaway from All Things Urban Fantasy

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

Marc said he heard the dark song when he creeped houses. The song the predator's heart sings when it hears the heart of the prey. I heard it now. Marc said it had always been in me. Lurking. Waiting for me to hear.

Ames is not the person she was a few months ago. Her father lost his job, and her family is crumbling apart. Now, all she has is Marc. Marc, who loves her more than anything. Marc, who owns a gun collection. And he'll stop at nothing--even using his guns--to get what he wants. Ames feels her parents have betrayed her with their lies and self-absorption, but is she prepared to make the ultimate betrayal against them?

Review:

Dark Song wasn’t really what I expected and that’s both a good and bad thing. I kind of think the back of the book gives a lot of the story away but even with that it was still a pretty good read. Ames’ life has changed so dramatically that she hardly recognizes it anymore. Her father lost his job, the family is forced to move out of their home, and her mother is quickly becoming a live-in-home enemy of Ames’. While the two have bumped heads on numerous occasions, their relationship just deteriorates as everyone tries to come to terms with what Ames’ father has done.

When Marc comes into Ames’ life, he’s like a knight in shining armor. He understands what she’s going through and is fiercely protective of her. It’s hard for Ames not to fall in love with him. It’s Ames and Marc against the world and she would follow him anywhere, just as long as her younger sister, Chrissy, could be with them. But Marc has a darker side to him. A side that likes to collect guns and creep houses; a side that will stop at nothing to have Ames and keep him with her for always. When the time comes for her to choose between Marc and her parents, Ames is forced to consider the unthinkable and the unforgivable.

So much happens to Ames in such a short period of time. All her so-called friends turned on her when her father lost her job. Thankfully her best friend stays true though. But her father’s decisions seem to brand the entire family as outcasts in the rich suburban area that Ames lives in. Speaking of her father…what an asshole! Truly, I mean not only does he mess up and lose his job (and no it wasn’t downsizing) but he keeps messing up. He’s like a train wreck…only getting worse and causing more damage as the wreck continues to happen. And while I really empathize with Ames’ mother I felt she completely shut down and actually made things worse. I know she pretty much lost everything but she could have not taken it out on Ames so much. But I’m not excusing Ames at all because she was a spoiled brat a lot of the time.

So with Ames’ life falling apart I still found it hard to really connect with her and like her. But I didn’t really feel like I needed a connection with her or any of the characters to get what the story was about. Ames was completely lost after losing so much. I understand she had nowhere to really turn to and when Marc came into her life it was hard for her not to latch onto him. Even though I get all that I still wanted to slap the girl. Marc started showing signs of his crazy, creepy ways very early-on and it never bothered Ames. I know she was desperate, she’s young, and Marc seemed all great but I couldn’t help my violent feelings toward the girl. She definitely didn’t use her common sense.

Dark Song was a quick read which I liked. I like how it flowed and was divided into “before” and “after”. It was a scary read in the sense that it made me really think about what would happen if I were in Ames position. I might have reacted the same way (I’d like to think I wouldn’t have been so naïve) as Ames so I guess I shouldn’t be so hard on her. Dark Song was very realistic because things like this actually do happen in the real world. People are scary and crazy as hell in real life. I think Gail Giles did a really great job putting a crazy situation into words that is palpable to readers. This is my first time reading a book by Giles and I can see myself reading more of her work in the future.

P.S. (cover talk)

Not a lot to do with the story in my opinion. But it’s still really neat and eye-catching. I just love the effect that was done with the flower. It’s very different! I like it.

Early Bird (ARC) Review: How to Woo a Reluctant Lady

 

How to Woo a Reluctant Lady

Sabrina Jeffries

Series or Stand Alone: Hellions of Halstead Hall series, book three

Release Date: January 2011

Publisher: Pocket Star

Pages: 384

Author Site: http://www.sabrinajeffries.com/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Received for review from Nancy Berland Communications

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

The third novel in Sabrina Jeffries's “Hellions of Hallstead Hall” series, featuring the independent and talented Lady Minerva Sharpe.

When a charming rogue proposes she marry him to meet her grandmother's ultimatum, the Sharpe clan's strong-willed sister makes a tempting counter-offer that preserves her inheritance and ignites his imagination.

Lady Minerva Sharpe has the perfect plan to thwart her grandmother's demands: become engaged to a rogue! Surely Gran would rather release her inheritance than see her wed a scoundrel. And who better to play the part of Minerva's would-be husband than wild barrister Giles Masters, the very inspiration for the handsome spy in the popular Gothic novels she writes? The memory of his passionate kiss on her nineteenth birthday has lingered in Minerva's imagination, though she has no intention of really falling for such a rakehell, much less marrying him. Little does she know, he really is a covert government operative. When they team up to investigate the mystery behind her parents' deaths, their fake betrothal leads to red-hot desire. Then Minerva discovers Giles's secret double life, and he must use all the cunning tricks of his trade to find his way back into her heart.

Review:

How to Woo a Reluctant Lady is the third book in The Hellions of Halstead Hall series and tells the story of the eldest Sharpe sister, Minerva. She’s feisty, independent, and is not afraid to speak her mind. After meeting her in the previous novel, A Hellion in Her Bed, I knew her story would be fun!

Although she doesn’t necessarily need her inheritance, Minerva is determined to meet her grandmother’s marriage ultimatum. But Minerva has an ace up her sleeve! She’ll fake an engagement and make Gran give up her pursuits. She has to give the crafty Giles Masters credit for coming up with the idea though. There’s no way Gran will accept Giles as a suitor, much less an appropriate husband, with his reputation. He may be a successful barrister but he’s known around town as a wild rogue.

Minerva’s been in love with Giles since she was nine-years-old. However, the rejection she felt after she was turned down from him in her teen years caused her to build a wall around her heart. It also caused her to take her frustration and heartache out on him through her gothic novels. Although some may frown upon Minerva’s writing, she’s actually very good at what she does and has a substantial fan base. Most think her notoriously wicked main character is based off her older brother…but the rakish spy is totally based off Giles. She has no idea how close to home her books really are because Giles really is living a double-life. A double-life that is seriously getting in the way of the life he wants to have…a life with Minerva as his wife.

I gotta say I didn’t enjoy this installment as much as I did the previous book. But, there were still some really great moments in How to Woo a Reluctant Lady! I liked Minerva. She knows what she wants in life and isn’t afraid to go after it. She was exactly the way I expected and wanted her to be. Her and Giles were a great match and it was a lot of fun to see them try to outwit each other in each of their interactions. My favorite thing about the novel was watching the attraction between them grow. Giles definitely used his good looks to his advantage and took Minerva off guard as often as he could.

I'm also very interested in the mysterious deaths of Minerva's parents. The ongoing investigation is a great backdrop to all of the stories so far. I enjoy how the author has entertwined it with each of the sibling's individual books. I can't wait to find out more!

So even though How to Woo a Reluctant Lady wasn't my favorite I still had a lot of fun with it. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the Hellions of Halstead Hall series because I have a feeling it will be about Gabriel and the woman who despises him...Of course, she will fall in love with him and I'll definitely be finding out why when the new book gets released.

Release Date:

January 18th

Review: Houston, We Have a Problema

Houston, We Have a Problema

Gwendolyn Zepeda

Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone

Release Date: January 2009

Publisher: Central Publishing

Pages: 400

Author Site: http://gwendolynzepeda.com/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Won from giveaway at Drey's Library

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

Jessica Luna is your typical 26 year old: she has man trouble, mom trouble, and not a clue what to do with her life (though everyone else in her family seems to have plenty of suggestions!) After a lifetime of being babied by her family, Jess is incapable of trusting herself to make the right choices. So instead, she bases all of her life decisions on signs. She looks to everything for guidance, from the direction her rearview-mirror-Virgin-de-Guadalupe sways to whatever Madame Hortensia, her psychic, sees in the cards.

When her sort-of boyfriend Guillermo, a gifted unmotivated artist, disappoints her again, Jessica thinks it's time to call it quits. Just to be sure, she checks in with Madame Hortensia who confirms that yes, it is time for a change. (Who knew $20 could buy so much security!) Right on cue, Jess meets Jonathan; he's the complete opposite of Guillermo--of all Jess's boyfriends, in fact. He's successful, has a stable job....and is white. Jess isn't sure if Jonathan is really the change Madame Hortensia saw. Sure he gives great career advice, but is he advising her on a career she actually wants? And yes he's all about commitment, but is it Jess or her mother who really wants marriage?

Jess runs back to Madame Hortensia for advice, but even she is out of answers. Now there's only one thing that's certain: no one--not her mother, her sister, her boyfriend or her psychic--can tell her what to do. For better or for worse, Jess will have to take the plunge and make her own decisions if she wants to have any future at all.

Review:

Jessica Luna, like many women, is having a number of problems in her life. Should she keep giving her sexy artist lover, (but still not boyfriend!) Guillermo more chances? Should she just give up since he keeps letting her down? Should she move on to something better – maybe in the opposite direction in the form of a successful, good looking, stable white man? Should she stay with her current insurance job that she is really great at but is totally monotonous? Or maybe take a risk and do something she loves – like web design? Should she finally tell her family to stop bugging her about marriage?

So many questions, so many different paths to take; Jessica just can’t figure out what to do. She relies heavily on her physic, Madame Hortensia, for advice. It can even be said that she can’t make a decision without Madame Hortensia’s advice… But Jess just doesn’t want to make the wrong choices in life. She wants to be happy with the right man, the right job, and have a good relationship with her family. What woman doesn’t want that?

I liked Jessica a lot as a character however I still had some serious issues with her. She second guesses herself a lot! She also has a constant need for signs and advice to guide the decisions she makes. And while that is totally understandable it got somewhat annoying. I wanted to shake the poor girl and say “Just do the damn thing and see what happens!” But I’m happy to say that Jessica’s character does mature and grow as she figures things out for her life. It actually made me smile and feel proud of her!

I can definitely see the book resonating with a lot of readers. I know pretty much everyone wishes they knew which paths to take in life. I know I’ve always wanted some sort of map or guide to point me in the right direction. But the truth is we can’t control or know everything. Sometimes we have to make bad decisions in order to get where we need to go. Mistakes help us learn not to do them again and help us determine the things in life that should be important. I know it takes some of us two or three (or even more!) than one mistake to get things right but at the end of the day that’s alright!

This was a quick, easy, and enjoyable read for me. The writing style flowed nicely and the novel itself had funny, relatable characters dealing with real life issues. Family dynamics and drama, career issues, and man trouble…sounds like the life of a lot of us out there! I’d definitely read more by this author and recommend giving this book a try for a fun read!



Review: The Pack

The Pack

LM Preston

Series or Stand Alone: The Pack series, book one

Release Date: August 2010

Publisher: Phenomenal One Press

Pages: 315

Author Site: http://www.lmpreston.com/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Received for review from author 

Synopsis:

[from goodreads.com]

Shamira is considered an outcast by most, but little do they know that Shamira is on a mission. Kids on Mars are disappearing, but Shamira decides to use the criminals most unlikely weapons against them, the very kids of which they have captured. In order to succeed, she is forced to trust another, something she is afraid to do. However, Valens her connection to the underworld of her enemy, proves to be a useful ally. Time is slipping, and so is her control on the power that resides within her. Yet, in order to save her brother's life she is willing to risk it all.

Review:

L.M. Preston has created an entertaining and action-packed world filled with sci-fi fantasy for the young adult reader. Set on a colonized Mars, children are disappearing and the ones being targeted are not at random. Children of the Security Force Elite are being taken and Shamira feels she’s the only one that can save the missing children. When her beloved younger brother becomes a victim of the kidnappings Shamira sets out to find whoever is responsible and make them pay.

Shamira is blind when she is first introduced in the story. However, she is still a forced to be reckoned with despite her disability. Her being blind isn’t the only thing that sets Shamira apart from the other children on Mars. After a horrible accident when she was a baby Shamira became blind and developed a “power” within her that makes gives her super-human strength and agility. Although Shamira has felt like an outcast her entire life, she has such a fierce and loyal personality. She also hates pity and feels the need to hide her enhanced abilities from the rest of the world, including her parents. Shamira has her downfalls; she’s a proud and independent heroine. But she can be vulnerable and L.M. Preston does a really great job with Shamira’s development and personality.

Having not read L.M. Preston’s writing before, THE PACK was a fast paced read that I really enjoyed. It sends out great messages of family and friendship and even has a touch of romance sprinkled into the story. It was pretty cool that Shamira and the other children she joins forces with are in charge of the story. I think a lot of younger readers will absolutely love that aspect of the story. These children are out to save Mars and bring down Monev. I’m looking forward to continuing on with Shamira and the children of Mars with the second book in series set to be released in 2012.

Firespell

Firespell

Chloe Neill

Series or Stand Alone: Dark Elite series, book one

Release Date: January 2010

Publisher: Signet

Pages: 256

Author Site: http://www.chloeneill.com/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Purchased

Synopsis

[from goodreads.com]:

As the new girl at the elite St. Sophia’s boarding school, Lily Parker thinks her classmates are the most monstrous things she’ll have to face…

When Lily’s guardians decided to send her away to a fancy boarding school in Chicago, she was shocked. So was St. Sophia’s. Lily’s ultra-rich brat pack classmates think Lily should be the punchline to every joke, and on top of that, she’s hearing strange noises and seeing bizarre things in the shadows of the creepy building.

The only thing keeping her sane is her roommate, Scout, but even Scout’s a little weird—she keeps disappearing late at night and won’t tell Lily where she’s been. But when a prank leaves Lily trapped in the catacombs beneath the school, Lily finds Scout running from a real monster.

Scout’s a member of a splinter group of rebel teens with unique magical talents, who’ve sworn to protect the city against demons, vampires, and Reapers, magic users who’ve been corrupted by their power. And when Lily finds herself in the line of a firespell, Scout tells her the truth about her secret life, even though Lily has no powers of her own—at least none that she’s discovered yet…

Review:

It seems boarding schools in the reading world all have a deep dark secret or house some pretty “gifted” students (and I don’t mean academically speaking). However, despite having similar elements to other books out there, FIRESPELL is a pretty solid start to a series that shows a lot of promise. A little slow to start, the action picks up pretty quickly and includes characters that are sure to make readers want more!

I must say “the new kid in a boarding school” thing was a slight drag but I thought author Chloe Neill did a pretty decent job on adding some new twists to the popular fad in paranormal young adult books out now. First off, St. Sophia is an all girls boarding school. Located in Chicago, St. Sophia’s prides itself outstanding academic achievement and developing crucial networking skills to make it after high school. I enjoyed the fact that the headmistress is unlikable at the beginning. Cold and distant the reader isn’t quite sure if she is on Lily’s side or not. However, I found myself liking her towards the end of the book. Her character doesn’t change much personality wise but background information and new knowledge gained from the story shines a different light on her.

The Brat Pack was another element that I’ve seen before. However, FIRESPELL’S brat pack had a different kind of hierarchy. Some of them are definitely more evil then others and I’m interested in seeing how they add trouble to the next installment in Lily’s story. As for Lily herself, she was totally likeable. I enjoyed how down to earth and honest she was. Her newly found best friend, Scout was definitely a show-stealer though. Independent, quick-witted, full of spunk and humor, she definitely makes a dynamic companion for Lily. I’m really interested in reading some more background info on the BFF.

The actual supernatural part of the story revealed quite a lot. Sometimes I felt I was given a little too much information at some points but overall it’s interesting as hell. The good vs. evil aspect is definitely different than what’s already out there and I’m looking forward to discovering more about the Dark Elite. I also see a lover’s triangle that could possibly be forming and I admit I’m super excited about that. Without going into too many details… I’m torn between Jason and Sebastian. I’ll definitely go into more when I get to book two. For now, go read the book to see what I’m talking about =)

While FIRESPELL didn’t blow me away I still really enjoyed the book, especially towards the end. I’ll be picking up a copy of book two, HEXBOUND, when it comes out in January.

Three to Get Deadly

Three to Get Deadly

Janet Evanovich

Series or Stand Alone: Stephanie Plum series, book three

Release Date: July 1998 (Mass Market)

Publisher: St. Martin's Press

Pages: 344

Author Site: http://www.evanovich.com/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Paperbackswap.com

Synopsis

[from goodreads.com]:

As readers of Janet Evanovich's two previous books about funny, feisty, family-tied bounty hunter Stephanie Plum already know, she operates in "the burg"--a "comfy residential chunk of Trenton, New Jersey, where houses and minds are proud to be narrow and hearts are generously wide open." On this turf, Plum fights for justice and fashion points--this time in pursuit of a beloved neighborhood candystore owner who seems to be moonlighting as an anti-drug vigilante. Evanovich now lives in New Hampshire, but authentic affection for Trenton energizes her prose. Plums in paperback include One for the Money and Two for the Dough.

Review:

I must admit while this series isn’t blowing me away I find myself drawn to Ms. Stephanie Plum. She’s such a quirky and fun character that is sure to make any reader laugh. In THREE TO GET DEADLY one of Trenton’s most lovable people is on Stephanie’s list of missing bad guys to hunt down. Mo Bedemier is known by everyone as Uncle Mo, the popular candy/ice cream store owner that’s been around since forever. It doesn’t matter that he was arrested for carrying a concealed weapon because half the city does that anyway. Stephanie quickly becomes one of the city’s most unpopular people.

While on the search for Uncle Mo, Stephanie notices that a lot of the drug dealers around town have disappeared. They are either in hiding or wind up dead and Stephanie seems to find herself next to their bodies. It seems Uncle Mo isn’t as innocent as everyone once thought and Stephanie is on the case along with the returning cast of characters.

Lulu is one of the funniest characters in the book. Once a prostitute, she’s turned herself around and joined the Plum bounty hunter team bringing her loud mouth right along with her! Ranger is more involved with this installment which I liked. He’s so mysterious and sexy-sounding and I need to know more about him!

Stephanie’s family remains to be one of the best fictitious families in my opinion. Grandma Mazur is such a crazy old woman and she pretty much always brings a smile to my face when she’s in a scene. Her mom is still pushing her to find a better and safer job but remains fiercely loving towards Stephanie. Sometimes I pity Stephanie’s poor father with all those crazy girls in the house =) And I know these books are funny/mystery/crime books but I so desperately want Joe and Stephanie together. Would it kill anyone to have a little more romance in the book?? Quite frankly I’m tired of the teases!

I’ll still be continuing on with FOUR TO SCORE up next. And I must admit I just love how Janet Evanovich titles her books. Definitely a lot of fun!

Traitor to the Blood

Traitor to the Blood

Barb & J.C. Hendee

Series or Stand Alone: Noble Dead series, book four

Release Date: January 2007

Publisher: Roc

Pages: 416

Author Site: http://www.nobledead.com/

My Rating: 3.5/5

Source: Received from Paperbackswap.com

Synopsis [goodreads.com]:

Born a half-breed to an elven mother and human father, Leesil was raised in the Warlands as assassin, spy, and slave for Lord Darmouth, ruler of an independent province. But Leesil's mother trained him well, and he used his skills to escape, leaving his parents to suffer Darmouth's wrath for all such traitors and their kin. Now with newfound purpose in the company of his beloved Magiere, Leesil returns to confront the sins of his past and uncover his parents' fate. Unable to turn him from this dangerous course, Magiere follows Leesil into the darkness of his past in the Warlands. Knowing what may happen should Darmouth learn of Leesil's return, she is prepared to slaughter any who try to take him from her. But Magiere's own past may well pose a more deadly threat. Two creatures of unfathomable power continue to stalk her - one who believes she's the key to his salvation, and one who seeks to destroy her...and all those she loves.

Review:

**Caution: This review may contain minor spoilers...

Leesil and Magiere have moved the troop towards the Warlands under the nose of Leesil's former master Lord Dartmouth. Leesil is determined to find out what happened to his parents after escaping his enslavement so many years ago. But his past actions continue to haunt him as he slowly uncovers the fate of his family. Meanwhile, Magiere struggles to watch Leesil's personality whither away each day. The atmosphere of the book is definitely more dark and violent which is fitting. I enjoy the fact that the Magiere and Leesil are equals in their relationship. Their bond is more on a scale of companions and/or "mates", if I could be so bold as to use that term, with hardly no emphasis on the romantic side.

I'm kind of sad that Chap's character is developing the way it currently is. I really love Chap but the fact that he is what he is is garnering a different kind of attitude from the rest of the company. I find it disappointing that he is treated the way he is although I understand both Magiere's and especially Leesil's feelings of betrayal. I happen to like Wynn the more I read about her. She is certainly no Magiere but she is definitely developing somewhat of a backbone and standing up for herself. I'm extremely curious to see how her and Chane's relationship develops and if it indeed does at all. Welsteil's character feels like a drag at times. His ongoing journey of trailing the team has become quite dull and I'm very read for it to pick up again...

I've come to really enjoy this series. However, I had some trouble getting into this installment. It dragged at times and there were just some passages that were longer than necessary. Despite that though, the ending really picked up in my opinion. And honestly I just can't help but continue on with these books! As a whole, I just love the characters and enjoy discovering new details about them and their pasts. While I do miss the romance found in other books, this dark fantasy series concentrates more on the action and relationships between ALL characters. The ending set up nicely for the next book in the series and I'm excited about starting it. Although TRAITOR TO THE BLOOD wasn't my favorite out of the bunch, the book certainly had some great elements to it.