Nite Lite Book Reviews: 2011

Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts

25 September 2012

Before I Go To Sleep - Review

Before I Go To Sleep by S.J. Watson

Publication date: 14 June 2011 by Harper

Category: Adult Mystery/Thriller
Keywords: Mystery, thriller, suspense, amnesia, memory
Format: Hardcover, paperback, eBook
Source: Library

From Goodreads:

'As I sleep, my mind will erase everything I did today. I will wake up tomorrow as I did this morning. Thinking I'm still a child. Thinking I have a whole lifetime of choice ahead of me ...' Memories define us. So what if you lost yours every time you went to sleep? Your name, your identity, your past, even the people you love - all forgotten overnight. And the one person you trust may only be telling you half the story. Welcome to Christine's life.

Thuy's Review:

You know that disorienting feeling you get sometimes when you take a nap for too long? You wake up a little bleary eyed and confused, wondering where you are or what time it is. But then you recognize your house and remember that you decided to take a nap. Well what if, when you woke up, couldn’t remember where you were or how you got there? And the face when you looked in the mirror wasn’t what you thought you looked like? Scary, right? Well this is what life is like for Christine Lucas, the main character of Before I Go To Sleep. Each night she goes to bed knowing that, when she wakes, she will not remember her life.

The book begins when Christine wakes up in an unfamiliar room next to a man she doesn’t recognize. She goes into the bathroom only to see a face in the mirror that looks twenty years older than how old she believes she is. She has no memories of her husband or her life before that morning and she learns that when she goes to bed, she will lose whatever little progress she has made for the day. Suspicions arise when Christine finds out that her husband hadn’t been telling her the truth. But has he been doing it for spare her the grief or for some other sinister purpose? And can she trust the doctor she’s seeing or does he have his own plans for?

This was a totally gripping story that had me holding my breath from one page to the next. Taut and suspenseful, Watson does a great job of putting us inside Christine’s head. I felt Christine’s frustration, grief, anger and fear as she tries to piece together her life each day. The journal entries really drew me into Christine’s world and I wanted to know about her past just as much as she did.

The journal entries were a little repetitive at times but I could see why it set up that way, since we were seeing things through Christine’s unique perspective. Things take a decidedly creepy turn once Christine realizes that what she’s writing down and what she is being told aren’t adding up. I was trying to read as fast as possible near the end of the book. If I was a nail biter, my nails would have been bitten down to the quick. The ending has the inevitable twist, though it was one that I hadn’t predicted. Things wrapped up a little too nicely and conveniently at the end, which lessened the believability of it all, but it was still a very exciting and nerve wracking ending.

Before I Go To Sleep makes us ask the question - who are we without our memories? It’s not something I’ve ever wanted to think about before and the answer is frightening. Creepy, intense, and original, Before I Go To Sleep an emotional thriller that you won’t be able to put down. Recommended for fans of the film Memento and dark, psychological thrillers.

Visit the author online at www.sjwatson-books.com, follow him on Twitter @SJ_Watson, and Facebook

18 September 2012

The Handbook of Natural Plant Dyes: Timber Tuesdays (2)

NITE LITE NON-FICTION

Alethea will be highlighting Timber Press books on Tuesdays! Disclaimer: I am not paid for these reviews, though I occasionally get eBook review copies from Netgalley. I just really like their books.

The Handbook of Natural Plant Dyes by Sasha Duerr

Publication date: 19 January 2011 by Timber Press

ISBN 10/13: 1604690712 | 9781604690712

Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

Category: Non-Fiction Crafting

Keywords: Dyes, Plants, Nature, Sustainability

Format: Paperback

Source: Borrowed from the library

Alethea's review:

This handbook covers the methods, materials, and reasons for using natural ingredients instead of artificial chemical dyes to color cotton, wool, and other fibers. I really like the simple recipes and how the author mentions all the different ways you can come by the ingredients and equipment. The book is really well-designed.

Many crafters taking on a new method know that it's usually an expensive process, getting started by purchasing specialized items. The main themes of Duerr's instructions include sustainability and economy, and thus many of the items you need to start a project can come from things you already have around the house, can get cheaply at thrift stores, or even find growing in your garden. The ingredients listed are so many and varied that you can even buy quite a few at the produce section of your grocery store, or pick up plants at the garden center and grow small plants indoors. This is great for suburban apartment dwellers like me.

Duerr's research seems very well-informed and also highlights safety precautions, as on the surface it may seem that because you are using handmade and natural methods and materials, that the process is entirely safe and non-toxic. However, this mainly depends on how informed and responsible the dyer is, and so that is one of the main ideas focused on by the text.

Apart from the great technical advice included in this book, the projects and photos are very inspirational. The book is well-designed and easy to follow. If anything, the reader will be overwhelmed by the myriad of possibilities presented in this book. From upcycling old garments to using up table scraps and yard clippings, Duerr seems to have thought of every possibility.

I especially like the palette that shows off some of the great colors you can achieve through plant dyeing at home. While comprehensive, it is by no means encyclopedic. Reading this book makes me want to go for a walk and find the nearest lawn or park with a dandelion explosion because I can't imagine what the red extraction from dandelion roots looks like. It's not pictured in the book.

This would be a great gift for fans of both art and fashion, as well as nature and chemistry. If I ever plow through my yarn stash I'll probably buy some undyed wool to try this out myself.

By the way, if you love color, check out this great podcast from Radiolab all about colors.

Find more about the author at sashaduerr.tumblr.com. Check out www.timberpress.com for more awesome books published by Timber Press.

20 August 2012

Succubus Revealed - Review

Succubus Revealed (Georgina Kincaid #6)
by Richelle Mead

Publication date: 30 August 2011 by Kensington

Category: Adult Urban Fantasy
Keywords: Paranormal, romance, urban fantasy, succubus, demons
Format: Paperback, eBook
Source: Purchased & review copy won from Goodreads

Synopsis:

In Georgina Kincaid, succubus and she-demon, #1 New York Timesbestselling author Richelle Mead has created one of her most enticing characters. But with a shot at love, and maybe even redemption, is the ultimate seductress finally going soft? Like hell she is. . .

Georgina Kincaid has had an eternity to figure out the opposite sex, but sometimes they still surprise her. Take Seth Mortensen. The man has risked his soul to become Georgina's boyfriend. Still, with Lucifer for a boss, Georgina can't just hang up her killer heels and settle down to domestic bliss. In fact, she's being forced to transfer operations. . .to Las Vegas.

The City of Sin is a dream gig for a succubus, but Georgina's allies are suspicious. Why are the powers-that-be so eager to get her away from Seattle—and from Seth? Georgina is one of Hell's most valuable assets, but if there's any way out of the succubus business she plans to take it—no matter how much roadkill she leaves behind. She just hopes the casualties won't include the one man she's risking everything for.

Review:

This might sound weird, but I put off reading this book for a really long time. Why? Because I didn't want to see the series end! After 5 books, Georgina and her friends felt like my friends. Reading the last book meant that the series would be over and that I would have to say goodbye to them. But all good things must come to an end, and I really wanted to find out what happened to Georgina, so I finally broke down and read it.

The book opens with Georgina working in a mall as a Santa's elf of all things. Whenever I think of mall Santas I think of David Sedaris's "Santaland Diaries" and I can't help but laugh. Georgina is back together with Seth, yay! I've always been a fan of Seth and Georgina, imperfect as the relationship is. Seth is dealing with a family illness when Georgina gets a sudden transfer to Las Vegas. The timing and method of the transfer are suspicious though. Georgina starts to do a little investigating and discovers things are not as simple as they appear.

Georgina's friends are back from more crazy antics. Jermone has them participating in a bowling league which, apparently, holds a lot of prestige in the demon world. While not really necessary to the plot, it was pretty funny watching them bowl with their matching t-shirts.

There are no big surprises in this one. If you've read the series, you probably have your suspicions about how the story is going to go. Was the ending predictable? Yes. Did I enjoy it? Yes. Like I said, I have come to really love these characters and it's sad for me to see them go. I think fans of Georgina and Co. will find this to be a fitting and satisfying end to the series. At a signing recently, Mead said that she has considered writing some short stories from Jerome or Carter's point of view. I really hope that happens one day. Until then, I will just have to satisfy myself by reading the series over again. :)

Visit the author online at www.richellemead.com and follow her on Twitter @RichelleMead

31 July 2012

Short Story Review: Forever Mine

Forever Mine (The Rumor #0.5) by Delilah Marvelle

Publication date: 01 December 2011 by Harlequin

ISBN 13: 9781426834110
Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Category: Adult Historical Romance novella
Keywords: Historical, romance, novella, short story, missing persons, prequel
Format: eBook
Source: Purchased

Synopsis:

London, 1802

Lady Augustine Jane Ascott longs for a man who will do more than offer his hand in marriage. She wants a husband she can trust, someone who will shield her from the darkness of the world. Her heart was broken when her little brother was kidnapped years earlier, and she still carries the pain of his loss.

When the handsome Duke of Wentworth makes his feelings for her known, Augustine's past demons warn her away. Besides, every woman in London knows he's devoted to the memory of his late wife. But is it possible he cares for her after all and that their love can bring them the peace they both crave?

Review:

This is my first read by Delilah Marvelle. I thought it would be a good primer for the first full length book in the series, which I recently purchased. Unfortunately this novella was just OK for me. It did not feel like this novella had a complete beginning, middle, or end. Rather, if feels like we’re dropped right into the middle of things with no back story to make sense of it all. There is little romance in the story. By the time the novella starts, Wentworth is already in love with Augustina and is looking to propose marriage. The hows and whys of it are never explained and I never really understood why he was in love with her. Later on, Augustine admits to herself that she is also in love with Wentworth but again, it seems to happen very suddenly and without any reason. I wish I could say that the sexy times made up for the lack of romance but there wasn’t a lot of that either. The love scene seemed more rushed than anything.

Even the ending is somewhat unsatisfactory and the fate of Augustine’s brother remains a mystery. While I think the story had potential, it just wasn’t developed enough. I didn’t feel an emotional connection with the characters and was never fully invested in their fate. I am still going to read the first book in the series (because I have it) and I hope that the format of a full length novel will eliminate some of the problems I had with this short story.

Visit the author online at www.delilahmarvelle.com and follow her on Twitter @DelilahMarvelle

17 July 2012

A Lot Like Love - Review

A Lot Like Love (FBI / US Attorney #2)
by Julie James

Publication date: 01 March 2011 by Berkley Sensation

Category: Adult Contemporary Romance
Keywords: Contemporary, romance, FBI, undercover agents
Format: Mass market paperback, eBook
Source: Library

Synopsis:

Jordan Rhodes is invited to all of Chicago's best parties, but there's only one the FBI wants to crash. To get her brother out of jail, she agrees to take Agent McCall as her date. But when the mission gets botched, requiring their "relationship" to continue, it starts to feel less like an investigation-and a lot like something else.

Review:

This is the second book in James’s FBI series. I haven’t read any of the others and I don’t think you need to in order to enjoy this story. Nick McCall is your typical gruff FBI agent. A great undercover agent, Nick doesn’t “do” relationships. With a job that takes him away from home for months at a time, he keeps himself romantically unattached, with only brief flings to occupy his time when he is in town. He thinks he is taking an easy case when he agrees to supervise a colleague’s first undercover op posing as the date of Jordan Rhodes, heiress and wine shop owner, in order to gain access to a money laundering scheme. Unfortunately things don’t go as planned and it’s Nick who has to pose as the boyfriend of the sharp tongued blonde.

I really wasn’t expecting to like this one as much as I did. I am not a huge contemp reader but I had heard so many good things about Julie James that I decided to give A Lot Like Love a try when I saw it on my library Overdrive catalog. I am so glad I gave it a chance, too, because it was a really fun read. With great characters, funny dialogue and sizzling chemistry, A Lot Like Love is a fantastic read that will leave readers wanting more.

I am a huge fan of the love/hate relationship and Nick and Jordan definitely start off on the wrong foot. Their bantering mixed with sexual attraction makes for some great chemistry. My favorite part of the book was definitely the characters. On paper, both Nick and Jordan might seem cliche but they’re not. Nick is an alpha male that would make anyone swoon. I love that he has a don’t-fuck-with-me-face and isn’t afraid to use it. He’s strong and direct without being overpowering, with a great sarcastic sense of humor. I loved how close he was to his family and his conversations with his mother cracked me up. Jordan was a great character as well. Even though she’s technically an heiress, she’s had to work hard for what she has and she doesn’t take things for granted. I like that she doesn’t let Nick get away with crap and holds her own against his strong personality. And let’s not forget Jordan’s brother, Kyle, aka The Twitter Terrorist. He was hilarious and I am dying to read his book.

The story was fast paced and interesting. The plot itself wasn’t the most original. I could see what was going to happen a mile away but I didn’t really care. I was having so much fun just getting to know these characters that I was just happy to be along for the ride.

A fun, sexy read, A Lot Like Love is a must for fans of contemporary romances.

Visit the author online at http://juliejames.com/ and follow her on Twitter @juljames

12 July 2012

First Grave On The Right - Review

First Grave On The Right (Charley Davidson #1)
by Darynda Jones

Publication date: 01 Feb 2011 by St. Martin's Press

Category: Adult Urban Fantasy
Keywords: Urban fantasy, grim reaper, ghosts, private investigator, funny
Format: Hardcover, paperback, eBook, audiobook
Source: Library

Synopsis:

A smashing, award-winning debut novel that introduces Charley Davidson: part-time private investigator and full-time Grim Reaper.

Charley sees dead people. That’s right, she sees dead people. And it’s her job to convince them to “go into the light.” But when these very dead people have died under less than ideal circumstances (i.e. murder), sometimes they want Charley to bring the bad guys to justice. Complicating matters are the intensely hot dreams she’s been having about an Entity who has been following her all her life...and it turns out he might not be dead after all. In fact, he might be something else entirely.

Review:

I don’t think I have ever laughed so much reading a book in my life! I want Charley Davidson to be my best friend. She’s the type of person who would make any occasion more fun, be it a barroom brawl, a slumber party, or a funeral. How can you not love a woman who names her breasts “Danger” and “Will Robinson?” She takes snark and sarcasm to a whole new level. But she isn’t all quick quips and jokes. She’s also incredibly brave, smart and compassionate. She helps people, even in the face of extreme skepticism and hostility.

The murder plot drew me in and kept me guessing. The bickering ghost lawyers were pretty funny in their attempts to help Charley solve their murders. I admit I was a bit creeped out by Charley’s “roommate” so it’s a good thing he lives in Charley’s apartment and not mine. Cookie is a fantastic character. A little crazy but also totally sweet. I wasn’t a huge fan of Garett. He was openly hostile to Charley and then changed his mind a few times. He just came off as somewhat obnoxious.

And then there’s Reyes. Dark, intense, and super hot, he is another mystery that Charley needs to solve. What she finds out isn’t what I was expecting and I can’t wait to see how it all plays out.

One of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much was the humor in it. The snark and sarcasm was right up my alley and I loved Charley’s great one-liners and dialogue. There were a few times when the jokes felt a little forced but, overall, I enjoyed the humor a lot.

With a unique twist on the Grim Reaper story and a heroine you can’t help but love, First Grave on the Right is a must read for fans of urban fantasy and smart writing.

Visit the author online at www.daryndajones.com and follow her on Twitter @darynda

04 July 2012

Sapphire - Review

Sapphire by Jeffe Kennedy

Publication date: 24 October 2011 by Carina Press

ISBN 10/13: 1426892497 | 9781426892493
Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Category: Adult Romance/Erotica
Keywords: Romance, BDSM, erotica
Format: eBook
Source: e-ARC received from Netgalley

Synopsis:

A successful executive, M. Taylor Hamilton is on track with her ten-year plan. Too bad her personal life consists of hitting the gym and grocery shopping. Enter the seductive Adam Kirliss. They may have a working relationship, but everything changes at an office party when he handcuffs her to the rail of a yacht.

Taylor writes off the adventure as too much champagne, but when Adam challenges her to a date, she agrees to meet up with him. And follow his rules. They share a night of exquisite intimacy, brimming with both pain and pleasure. But afterward, fearful of losing her heart, Taylor pulls back emotionally.

Adam is determined to prove that she longs for the loss of control he can give her--and the passionate release it provides. How can he make her see that he wants her, and not just her body?

Review:

Let me start off this review by saying that I am not that familiar with BDSM. I don't read too many books about it and know very little about the lifestyle itself. I can't really comment as to the authenticity of the BDSM relationship and can only share my opinion of the char
acters and story and what I personally felt about it.

The book jumps right into things when Taylor Hamilton, buttoned up businesswoman, finds herself handcuffed to a yacht railing by her colleague Adam Kirliss. Adam's had his eye on Taylor and he's ready to make his move (he really is ready because her brings handcuffs onto the yacht). Adam thinks Taylor needs to loosen up and he's just the right Dominant to do it. After bringing her to a quick orgasm, Adam promises Taylor much more if she'll agree to see him again. Taylor can't resist and the next day she shows up at Adam's house for a weekend of sexual experimentation and maybe something more.

This was definitely a steamy read. If you like your love scenes pretty tame then this isn't the book for you. Taylor and Adam were both likable characters. Taylor is very buttoned up and rigid and it's interesting to watch her evolve and realize that she doesn't always need to be in control. Adam's sexual dominance allows her break down some of her walls. While I definitely felt like they had a sexual connection, the emotional connection was less developed and I wish the book had been a little bit longer so we could have explored that part of the relationship a little more.

Adam was still a bit of a mystery at the end of the book. I wanted to know more about him and his motivations and I am not sure I really got that. And the scene at the end with Taylor seemed a little implausible to me. Again, I don't know much about BDSM, but it seems like Taylor got Adam to give up control pretty quickly when their roles were reversed. To me, it seemed like it would have taken them much longer to get to that point.

Overall I enjoyed this brief, sexy look into the BDSM lifestyle. The writing was good, though I would have liked more time for further character development, especially with Adam. I think readers interested in BDSM romances would enjoy getting their feet wet with this novella.

*I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Visit the author online at jeffekennedy.com and follow her on Twitter @jeffekennedy

02 June 2012

A Discovery of Witches - Review

A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy #1) by Deborah Harkness

Publication date: 28 February 2011 by Viking Adult

Category: Adult Fiction
Keywords: Magical realism, witches, vampires, alchemy, magic, historical, romance
Format: Hardcover, paperback, eBook
Source: Purchased

From Goodreads:

A richly inventive novel about a centuries-old vampire, a spellbound witch, and the mysterious manuscript that draws them together.

Deep in the stacks of Oxford's Bodleian Library, young scholar Diana Bishop unwittingly calls up a bewitched alchemical manuscript in the course of her research. Descended from an old and distinguished line of witches, Diana wants nothing to do with sorcery; so after a furtive glance and a few notes, she banishes the book to the stacks. But her discovery sets a fantastical underworld stirring, and a horde of daemons, witches, and vampires soon descends upon the library. Diana has stumbled upon a coveted treasure lost for centuries-and she is the only creature who can break its spell.

Debut novelist Deborah Harkness has crafted a mesmerizing and addictive read, equal parts history and magic, romance and suspense. Diana is a bold heroine who meets her equal in vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont, and gradually warms up to him as their alliance deepens into an intimacy that violates age-old taboos. This smart, sophisticated story harks back to the novels of Anne Rice, but it is as contemporary and sensual as the Twilight series-with an extra serving of historical realism.

Review:

If you haven't heard of A Discovery of Witches, you've probably been living under a rock (a very nice rock I am sure). With its striking cover and the sheer size of the hardcover, it's really quite hard to miss. It's also gotten great reviews and a sequel is already set to be released this July. This is one of those books that I picked up a long time ago with every intention of reading, but never got around to. When my friends picked it for our book club selection for April, I was excited because it would really force me to sit down and start it.

Diana Bishop is a witch, descended from a long line of witches. But she's turned her back on her heritage and has instead dedicated her life to academic study. An American doing research in Oxford, Diana recalls an ancient manuscript from the depths of the Oxford library. She senses its magic but ignores it, getting the information she needs from it and sending it back. But this is a special manuscript, one that hasn't been seen in over a hundred years and Diana is the only one known to have been able to break its spell. Suddenly all manner of magical creatures start to appear in the library. Demons, witches and vampires all start to appear in alarming numbers. Diana also finds herself under the watchful eye of Matthew, an ancient vampire to whom Diana is inexplicably drawn.

This book surprised me - in a really good way. It's nothing like what I expected, though right now, I can't remember what I thought it was going to be about. Yes, there are witches. But there are also vampires and demons wrapped up in a story full of history, science, mystery, romance and magic. Yes, that's a lot of words but A Discovery of Witches has all of that and much more. I thought that this 600 page book would be a daunting read but I flew through it. I became wrapped up in the world and its characters and I didn't want to let go when the book ended. A Discovery of Witches takes you into a unique and magical world that you will want more of. Harkness's writing is excellent, full of intricate details and history that is still easy to digest. I do admit that some of the science and DNA stuff was over my head. But overall, I was able to grasp all of the scientific and historical information. The pacing was good, each section of the book flowing easily into the next. There is a large part of the book where the mystery of the manuscript takes a bit of a backseat. These sections of the book are about getting to know Diana and Matthew. Their romance is a large part of the book and I didn't mind getting swept up in their romance though some people maybe feel that this part is a bit slow.

This book also has a great cast of characters. I liked that Diana was a scholar and that she's very smart an independent. She also has a love of stretchy black pants and strong tea that I can relate to. She did frustrate me a little at times though when she refused to acknowledge her witch heritage. She's so intent on not using magic that she ignores what her instincts tell her. This willful ignorance almost gets her killed more than once. Though Diana's character started off strong, I think it did get a little weaker as the story progressed. Her transformation from studious academic to smitten girlfriend is pretty fast. I would have liked to have seen a little more of what her thought process was going through during the romance. I can't say I really blame her falling in love quickly though when it's Matthew we're talking about. Matthew, like any good vampire, is intense, predatory and infinitely charming. He's also a scientist and a scholar with a love of fine wine and yoga. I liked that he still appreciates life and the finer things in it even after having lived for so long.

There's a great cast of secondary characters as well. I loved kind Marthe, a fan of trashy mysteries. I also liked Matthew's mother Isabeau, who was intimidating at first but grows on you. I also felt like the settings and locations in the books were so rich and important to the story that they were almost characters as well. The first part of the book is set in Oxford and I really felt like I learned the campus and the libraries and even the neighborhoods around it. Matthew's castle in France is rich in history. I felt like I was walking through the castle with Diana and could feel the stone walls. And let's not forget the haunted farmhouse that Diana's aunts inhabit. That house really is a character, letting Diana and the other inhabitants know when it's upset or happy. It also lets them know when guests will be arriving and keeps items safe until the they are needed.

Overall I had a really great time reading this book. A great story with a great romance - what more could you ask for? Thank goodness July is almost here!

Visit the author online at deborahharkness.com and follow her on Twitter @debharkness

29 March 2012

Once Upon A Scandal - Review

Once Upon A Scandal (Scandal #2) by Delilah Marvelle

Publication date: 18 January 2011 by Harlequin

ISBN 10/13: 0373775458 | 9780373775453
Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository

Category: Adult Historical Romance
Keywords: Historical, romance, scandal
Format: Mass market paperback, eBook

Thuy's synopsis:

Five years have passed since Jonathan Remington left London for Venice. After declaring his love to the woman of his dreams he vows to come back to vie for her in seven months time. However, fate has other plans and Jonathan is forced to stay in Venice. His reasons are mysterious and he cuts off all communication from Victoria. Hurt and angered by his actions, Victoria sees Jonathan’s abandonment as another reason not to believe in love. As the years pass, Victoria becomes bitter and determined never to feel love again lest she be disappointed again. But Jonathan suddenly comes back into her life, can Victoria forgive him or will she let happiness slip through her fingers?

Thuy's Review:

Once Upon A Scandal is the second book in the Delilah Marvelle’s Scandal series. I didn’t read the first book and don’t think you need to in order to read this. I have mixed feelings about this one. Maybe I’ve just read a lot of really good historicals lately but, while I enjoyed this book, it didn’t end up being one of my favorites. First, I found the whole setup with Victoria’s father’s will a little implausible. It just seemed like a lot of trouble to go to for the outcome. But he was a sick man and maybe that accounts for the eccentricity of the whole thing. The scene in the carriage also seemed highly unlikely to happen. I know this a romance and I definitely want my sexy times, but I just didn’t think that it was something Victoria would agree to or that Jonathan would think to ask. So, while it was hot, it didn’t seem very in character.

Jonathan was a very different type of tortured hero. He had to do some very unsavory things to survive. I don’t want to give too much away but the thing he had to do to keep his family and Victoria safe isn’t a subject that gets brought up much and I actually wish that they had talked about it more. I like that he’s very emotional and passionate, often acting on his feelings. Sometimes it’s not the smartest thing to do but he isn’t afraid to tell Victoria how he feels, which I admired.

Victoria took a little while to warm up to. I could understand why she would be so angry at Jonathan after he disappeared for five years. Trust me, I’d be mad, too. But she seemed cruel at times and it wasn’t until she started softening a little and got over her initial anger that I started to like her. Both she and Jonathan were so stubborn at times that I wanted to smack both of them. They were stuck in the past and it was keeping them from having a future together. Thanks goodness they both get some sense and all ends well.

While the book did have its flaws, I enjoyed it. Marvelle has a wonderful way of writing and I could easily picture London and Venice. I also felt like there was real love and affection between Jonathan and Victoria and was glad when they finally found their happy ending.

Visit the author online at www.delilahmarvelle.com and follow her on Twitter @DelilahMarvelle

31 January 2012

Dead Reckoning - Review

Dead Reckoning (Sookie Stackhouse #11) by Charlaine Harris
Publication date: 03 May 2011 by Penguin/Ace Roc
ISBN 10/13: 0441020313 | 9780441020317

Category: Adult Urban Fantasy
Keywords: Urban fantasy, vampires, weres, fae, shapeshifters
Format: Hardcover, eBook and audiobook

From goodreads:

With her knack for being in trouble's way, Sookie witnesses the firebombing of Merlotte's, the bar where she works. Since Sam Merlotte is now known to be two-natured, suspicion falls immediately on the anti-shifters in the area. Sookie suspects otherwise, but her attention is divided when she realizes that her lover Eric Northman and his "child" Pam are plotting to kill the vampire who is now their master. Gradually, Sookie is drawn into the plot-which is much more complicated than she knows.

Thuy's review:

Sookie finds herself once again in a whole heap of trouble when she witnesses a fire bomb at Merlotte’s. The suspicion falls on the anti-Shifter groups in the area but Sookie has her own ideas about who might be behind it the attack. Throw in an assassination plot to kill the current vampire king and Sookie may have bitten off more than she can chew.

Charlaine Harris gets back on track with Dead Reckoning. The last book in the series was a huge disappointment for me. It was bogged down with way to many characters and dry explanations of vampire politics. This book returns to what I loved about the series in the first place - fun and interesting characters, drama and hot vampires! There was a little less Bill than I would have liked (Team Bill!) but Eric was definitely great. Some changes to Sookie and Eric’s relationship happen that I think were inevitable. There’s also plenty of sweet, sexy Sam in this one. Harris seriously needs to give him a girlfriend who isn’t mean or crazy (and yes, I volunteer).

We see the return of fan fave Bubba in a rare concert performance and Amelia the witch even makes a brief appearance. Sookie learns more about her fae heritage and the origins of her telepathic ability. This revelation wasn’t quite what I was expecting but it’s a nice piece of the Sookie puzzle to have.

Dead Reckoning is a quick, fun read that reminds me why I originally started reading this series and why I love Sookie. Looking forward to the next installment!

say "twee!"

Find Thuy on Twitter @fishgirl182

24 January 2012

Immortal Rider - Review

Immortal Rider (Lords of Deliverance #2) by Larissa Ione

Publication date: 01 December 2011 by Grand Central Publishing

ISBN 10/13: 0446574473 | 9780446574471
Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Book Depository

Category: Adult Paranormal Romance
Keywords: Paranormal, romance, underworld, apocalypse, Four Horsemen
Format: Mass market paperback, eBook (e-ARC received from Netgalley)

Thuy's synopsis:

Immortal Rider is the story of Limos, one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Sister to the other three Horsemen, Limos (aka Famine) has a pretty carefree existence living on a tropical Hawaiian island when she’s not trying to stop her evil brother Pestilence from destroying the world and protecting her Seal from breaking and causing the Apocalypse. And oh yeah - she’s also betrothed to Satan himself and he’s tired of waiting.

Arik’s a soldier in the R-XR, a paranormal military unit that works with The Aegis and it helping to prevent the Apocalypse. Unfortunately Arik doesn’t know that Limos is engaged when he kisses her and he’s dragged to Hell for his trouble. While Satan’s minions invent new and painful ways to torture Arik, Limos and her brothers try to find him down before Limos’ Seal breaks. But the trouble doesn’t end once Arik escapes. An evil plot to break the Seals and bring Hell on earth escalates and Arik and Limos find themselves in the middle of it.

Thuy's Review:

This was a hard review to write. I was so excited to get my hot little hands on this. I’ve been waiting for Arik’s story for awhile. He first showed up in Passion Unleashed as Runa’s overprotective and sometimes jerk brother. There was always something about Arik that intrigued me, even though he wasn’t always the most appealing character. I just knew there was more to him than what we were seeing. Unfortunately this book fell somewhat short of my expectations.

The book starts off strong with Arik making a move on Limos and getting pulled into Hell. While there, he is tortured beyond sanity but manages to hold it together and doesn’t betray Limos. I was touched by his show of loyalty in the face of incredible pain for a woman who barely knew. But that’s the type of guy Arik is - extremely loyal and stubborn, often thinking of others before himself. Limos, meanwhile is looking for him. As she does, we learn a lot more about her past and why she is the way she is. As the bride of Satan, she hasn’t had a lot of time for fun in her life and therefore, tries to live life to the fullest. She’s fiercely protective of her family and takes that protectiveness too far sometimes. She’s also a pretty bad ass fighter, which I love. While it doesn’t seem like the serious, solid Arik and the fun loving, party throwing Limos would make a good match, but they are. They both come from troubled backgrounds and have a lot of guilt that they’re trying to get over.

Unfortunately, I felt that it lost steam somewhere in the middle and Limos and Arik’s story became overshadowed by all of the subplots going on - from the Reaver/Harvester story to the Than/Regan storyline (which we’ll get into more in a bit) . Arik and Limos also spend quite a lot of time apart in this book. I don’t blame Arik too much as he was being tortured in hell, but because of the physical distance, I felt that Arik and Limos didn’t get enough time together to develop their relationship. I mean, they don’t even get a real love scene until the very end of the book and the scene that is supposed to be their official “first time” is somewhat heart breaking. Plus, where the heck is Satan? I thought for sure he’d show up at some point to claim Limos or at least try to kill someone, but it never happens.

There’s a lot of emphasis put on the Than/Regan relationship in this one as a setup to the next book. I have mixed feelings about this storyline. On the one hand, I feel that Regan and Than have great chemistry and the sort of love/hate relationship that I love. On the other hand, I find the reason that Regan was sent there to be somewhat distasteful and it’s hard to see how their relationship will work.

I did enjoy all of the cameos by the Sem brothers and the Demonica crew. Cara’s hellhound Hal even makes an appearance. Even though this wasn’t my favorite book, I still enjoyed it. I am definitely invested in the world and characters that Larissa Ione has created and am anxiously awaiting the next installment.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Visit the author online at www.larissaione.com and follow her on Twitter @LarissaIone

01 January 2012

Holiday Kisses: A Holiday Romance Collection - Review

Holiday Kisses: A Holiday Romance Collection
by Alison Kent, Jaci Burton, HelenKay Dimon, Shannon Stacey

Publication date: 05 December 2011 by Carina Press
ISBN 10/13: B005Z18F60

Category: Adult Romance
Keywords: Romance, contemporary, realistic, holidays, Christmas
Format: eBook, Kindle (e-ARC received from Netgalley)

From goodreads:

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like...Love!

A man gives the gift of trust and receives a second chance at love in return. A woman helps to heal the wounded heart of a soldier. A couple finds that true love knows no distance. And a young widow learns that there can be two great loves in a lifetime. Love, romance and passion come together in this collection of four seasonal shorts.

Anthology includes:
This Time Next Year by Alison Kent
A Rare Gift by Jaci Burton
It's Not Christmas Without You by HelenKay Dimon
Mistletoe and Margaritas by Shannon Stacey

Stories also available for purchase separately.
103,000 words

Thuy's Review:

I am on a total holiday reading train right now. I've read lots of holiday themed stories (that I still need to write reviews for). I picked this one up on Netgalley a couple of weeks ago hoping for some fun holiday romance and that's exactly what I got. I had a lot of fun with this one and hope you enjoy my review.

This Time Next Year by Alison Kent – 4 stars

I really enjoyed this story story about two very different people who find each other during the holidays . Dillon’s a true hero, a doctor who spent a good deal of time healing people during the war in Afghan. Retired now, he continues taking care of the people on his mountain, which is how he finds Brenna after her car crashes in the snow. Dillon still has a lot of guilt over what happened and what he saw in the war and has closed himself off emotionally. Brenna’s funny and compassionate and, as the week goes on, she gets Dillon to open up about himself. With her help, Dillon begins to realize that he needs to stop blaming himself for the decisions he made and the people he couldn’t save. Only then can he get over the guilt and move on with his life. An endearing and touching romance that had me sighing at the ending, This Time Next Year was a great read.

A Rare Gift by Jaci Burton – 3 stars

I am usually a fan of Jaci Burton but this one didn’t have quite the impact that her stories usually have for me. I liked Calliope a lot. She’s strong and independent and I loved watching her interact with the children at the day care center. Wyatt’s extremely closed off emotionally which isn’t unusual for males in romance novels but, in this case, Calliope’s relationship as his ex’s sister has made him even more wary of pursuing a relationship with her. Wyatt was also extremely stubborn and I wanted to smack him in the head several times. I am sure Calliope felt the same way. When they finally to succumb to their attraction, it’s hot like only Jaci Burton can write it. Though ultimately satifying, this story just wasn’t as compelling as what I usually expect from Burton.

It’s Not Christmas Without You by HelenKay Dimon – 4 stars

This is probably my favorite story in the anthology. Funny, sweet and totally endearing, I fell in love with both Austin and Carrie in this holiday tale about two people finding each other again. Austin is adorable as the (ex)boyfriend with a plan to woo Carrie back to their hometown. I loved his flirty and unapolgetic attitude and he had my laughing with his attempts to win Carrie back. I loved that Carrie didn’t give in to Austin right away and that she fought for her dreams and her career. There are no easy answers but Carrie and Austin work to understand each other in order to have a future together. A story about hope, understanding, and a love worth fighting for, It’s Not Christmas Without You is a wonderful story for the holidays.

Mistletoe & Margaritas by Shannon Stacey – 4 stars

This is my first Shannon Stacey story but it definitely won’t be my last. Mistletoe & Margaritas is fantastic story about love and second chances. Justin’s been in love with Claire for years but kept silent because she fell in love and married his best friend Brandon. A widow of several years now, Claire still misses her husband but finds comfort in her friendship with Justin. Suddenly Claire finds her feelings for Justin veering towards a more romantic nature. I loved watching their relationship at the beginning of the story – the pizza dates and holiday traditions. It’s obvious that they both love each other but they have to deal with the guilt they have about Brandon and moving on. This emotional story about two best friends falling in love really pulled at my heartstrings and I was really rooting for Claire and Justin to find their happily ever after.

I was really pleased with this collection of holiday romances. Anthologies are a great way to find new authors and that was definitely the case with this one. If you’re in the mood for a few fun, sexy and heartwarming stories to read this holiday, Holiday Kisses would make a great gift to yourself or anyone else.

Total Rating

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Visit the Alison Kent, Jaci Burton, HelenKay Dimon and Shannon Stacey online.

31 December 2011

In My Mailbox (14)

image courtesy of a mocha & a latte

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. It gives book bloggers the chance to share what they’ve bought/borrowed/received!

Happy New Years Eve! By the time you read this it'll probably be 2012. I can't believe that this year is over already. It really did fly by. I didn't receive too many books as gifts this year for Christmas. Most people don't know what to get me so I am left to buy my own books. But I did get a few fun things and gifted myself some books as well.

Bought

The Bastard by Brenda Novak (kindle) - This became available for free on kindle and it's gotten some decent reviews so I thought I'd give it a try.

True North by Marie Force (kindle) - Another free one. I've seen Marie's name around and thought this would be a good chance to try her.

Naked City (Anthology) by Various - I seem to be on an anthology kick lately. They're a good way to sample authors I haven't read before. Found this one at the local thrift store for $2 and it has awesomeness by Patricia Briggs, Melissa Marr, Holly Black and more.

Discovery of Witches by by Deborah Harkness - Another great thrift store find for a book I've been meaning to read. It's HUGE.

Under Her Skin (Anthology) by Ilona Andrews, Jeaniene Frost, Meljean Brook (kindle) - Ebook compilation of stories by three awesome authors. Previously published in some giant anthology. This inexpensive bundle only has the contributions from the three authors listed.

The Great Book of Chocolate by David Lebovitz - History of chocolate including some delicious recipes by one of my fave food people. How could I say no?

For Review

(all from Netgalley this week)

Melt by Natalie Anderson - Fun little short story about a romance in Antarctica. I really enjoyed this one. Review coming soon.

Exclusively Yours & Undeniably Yours by Shannon Stacey - I just read a short story by Stacey that I really liked and can't wait to read a full length.

Received

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling - I've been dying to read this book and was super excited when I opened it on Christmas Day.

Teeny Tiny MiniMochi by Anna Hrachavec - I've been wanting this book for awhile. Instructions to knit tiny gnomes, snowmen and other things that I have no use for but that are adorable.

That's it for me. Hope you all have a safe and fun New Year's!