August Reviews
Stygian by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Paranormal Romance - August 28th, 2018
5 stars
This thick, meaty book will not disappoint fans, as Sherrilyn Kenyon reveals more about the Dark Hunter universe and explains the actions of characters once thought purely evil.
This is the story of the misunderstood Daimons, cursed by their own fickle and narcissist God Apollo. Hunted by the Dark Hunters because they steal the souls of humans to prolong their short lived lives. In this epic novel we learn about Urian and Stryker. Thought to be vicious mad men who will kill without remorse. And these strong characters do fight, they fight for their survival....
Sherrilyn Kenyon is THE Mastermind. And her world is addictive. It takes a great author to create heroes from villains and do it so convincingly you start to dislike the Dark Hunters who were your heroes! This book is great because it not only tells the main character’s story but also secondary characters so that you really care for them all. I felt for Urian and I liked that in this novel he actually has a family (a dysfunctional one, but still a family) that loves him. He may sometimes feel alone because his powers scare him and isolate him but he has people he can turn to and have his back. In most of Sherrilyn Kenyon’s books, the hero is completely alone and it was a refreshing change to not only about the main character but start to care for his family members, too. Another wonderful thing about this novel is in addition to Urian, several other characters get resolution and seem to find peace. And although I have mixed feeling about this, Acheron becomes more human (petty and prejudiced), with faults just like everyone else. But what was most interesting is how human and relatable Stryker becomes. (I wonder if the author will have his story coming in the future?) Reading about Sherrilyn Kenyon’s characters you can tell she loves them just as much as her fans. The only thing? I’m getting tired of the mercurial and vicious Gods and Goddesses get away with torturing beloved characters. I hope some of them eventually get their comeuppance. Starting with Apollo and then Artemis.
Magnificent and unforgettable this book will be on your keeper shelf.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Magic Triumphs by Ilona Andrews
Urban Fantasy - August 28th, 2018
4 ½ stars
Magic Triumphs is the final installment in the Kate Daniels series. A sad moment in the Urban Fantasy genre. However, the authors have a spin off series (Iron Covenant) and possibly more stories with characters from this series may be in the works.
Kate and her lion shifter husband, Curran are finally starting their family with the new addition of their son, Conlan. Conlan is little ball of energy with many hidden talents. But their family life will never be normal as Kate’s mega-manic father is bent on complete domination of Atlanta. The city she has vowed protection over. Plus he also wants to kill her newborn son since Conlan is a threat to her father’s power. In addition, mysterious mass murders are cropping up. Ones that are not related to her father, but an unknown magical force that wants to claim Kate and her city. Unfortunately, this new power is stronger that even Kate can battle, can she convince her diabolical father to help before all she loves disappears?
This book wraps ups many loose ends and is surprisingly short. I liked a lot about this story. The biggest one being Conlan. He has charm to spare and powers that don’t seem to stop. ( Wouldn’t it be great for him to have his own series later?!) It was interesting to read Kate being a mother, I liked this softer side that she often does not show even to her closest friends. Kate and Curran still make a amazing team and I enjoyed reading how they are supportive and care for each other. There are some surprises as enemies becomes allies and good friends seem to have a strange character adjustments. Certain larger characters like the Bouda Clan (Andrea and Ascanio) and Jim and Dali are scarce. Since I’ve ‘grown up’ with these character it was almost like by omitting them the authors were saying good bye. I hope this isn’t true. Maybe their absence means they are leaving it open for potential future stories to be written about them. There was one big change I was disheartened by, the change in sweet-natured, Dali’s character. I loved her from the short novellas the authors had written before. However, Kate’s crazy family finally seems to become a real one that works. I enjoyed this book but for some reason I thought there would be more. I think that happens when authors create a world and characters that are like your best friends you don’t want to let go -no matter what happens.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Nikolai of Semar by Aurrora St James
Paranormal/Fantasy Romance - Aug 21st ,2018
4 1/2 stars
This fantasy romance is super sexy and features a villain you will love to hate. It will keep you on the edge of your seat!
The Dragon King Nikolai Baudin once saved a young girl from being burned to death by her village. Unfortunately, he was unable to save her mother. For her protection he sent her away so she would not be persecuted again. But the strange, white haired beauty as grown up. Her name is Arianrhod Deatherage. And she has a secret. She is a half breed and at night become a terrible monster. In fear, she locks herself up in her travelling caravan thinking her uncontrollable 'other' self will harm humans. When Aria is told it is her destiny to visit the Dragon King she eagerly complies. She has always wanted to meet the man who saved her life and ask about him about her mother's last moments alive. When she reaches his kingdom she is surprised by his animal magnetism and that he seems to enjoy her company, too! (Dragon shifters age at a slower rate.)
Nikolai can't help himself from being fascinated with Aria. Unfortunately, his kingdom is being threatened by mysterious deaths and Aria's strange hair and habit of locking herself away at night arouses the suspicions of Nikolai's subjects. Is Aria responsible for these gruesome deaths? And if not, who is behind them? Nikolai must solve the puzzle quickly or any chance for love between them may be lost forever!
Nikolai is one smokin' hot dragon shifter. (Why doesn't the author have a lot more?!) He and his other friends will keep readers wanting this series to never end. The author does a wonderful job making the secondary characters feel real. I particularly liked Rhys and his blind sister. Even the villain's motives become understandable if twisted. Nikolai is a dream His character is noble and responsible. He cares for his people and Aria. His heart wants to lead him way and his head it telling him not to rush too soon with Aria and think of the safety of his subjects.
There are many subplots featuring secondary characters you will love and which will only pull you deeper into this fantasy world! The evil Fae are particularly vicious. But the men are extremely sexy, self sacrificing and noble. (More please!) So there is bound to be one you will want to know more about. The tension behind the villain/s of the story and their ultimate plan kept me wondering what devious havoc they would create next. I found myself strangely fascinated by them and hoping Nikolai and his friends will stop them in time. The only section of the story which dragged a bit for me was the heroine in the first half of the book. Aria is kind and young. She doesn't quite have the maturity of the other stars in the story. As she learns to master her magic and accept herself I found myself getting more invested in her story. Then she seemed a worthy match for Nikolai! BTW, the scenes between them are hot! This book was a rare treat, one that I will revisit. I also liked that the author also has a very special romance at the end which readers will love, I don't want to ruin the surprise.
Mythical dragons, cruel enemies and sizzling male heroes make for a series that will not disappoint!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Tarma and Kethry by Mercedes Lackey
Fantasy- Aug. 21st, 2018
4 stars
Tarma and Kethry is a compilation of previously published novels about an infamous female duo. This book also includes short novels about them from previously published anthologies. Fans of Mercedes Lackey and strong woman warriors characters will love this series if they haven't heard of it already.
Tarma is a warrior whose entire clan was viciously murdered. In anger and grief she makes a vow to her Goddess to avenge them and become a legendary warrior. Along her travels she meets a young magic worker named Kethry. Kethry also carries a magical sword named Need which forces Kethy to help any woman who needs aid in the area. Together this heroic duo fight for righteousness -and to make enough money to provide for a comfortable living. This series is about their travels and the powerful and not so powerful people they meet and how they hope to become famous enough to establish their own respective schools.
This omnibus is thick and has smaller print. It will provide several long hours of pleasurable reading. This series was trailblazing when it first came out. And re-reading their adventures is still as exhilarating as the first time I read them. Tarma and Kethry is also overall a bit more serious in tone that her current releases but does become more lighthearted as the books progress. At the time of its initial release there weren't many strong heroines who stood on their own. (Without the help of a man.) This series focuses on their friendship and adventures. Tarma and Kethy have some interesting surprises such as Tarma's mysterious teachers and Kethy's 'inherited' magical sword. Together they become sisters of the heart. I loved reading their swashbuckling stories and how the author introduced characters from her Valdemar world.
Readers of fantasy will find this complication a hidden gem at a nice, low price.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Wild Hunger by Chloe Neill
Urban Fantasy - August 14th, 2018
4 1/2 stars
Wild Hunger is the first in a new series that is a spin off from the author’s wildly popular Chicagoland Vampire series. Fun and instantly engaging, you won’t want this book to end.
It’s hard growing up as the only ‘born’ not ‘made’ vampire. As the daughter of the famous Master of Chicago and his sentinel, Elisa Sullivan has had big shoes to fill. So when she is old enough she decided to get training in France. Away from her parents and the expectations that surround her. In Europe, Elisa begins to find herself and a way to control the angry animal within her. One that lies just beyond the surface and loves violence. But when a world vampire peace conference is hosted in Chicago, Elisa finds herself back home with familiar and not so familiar faces. However, she isn’t even settled when a shifter friend named Riley is accused of murdering an important delegate! Elisa knows Riley isn’t capable of cold blooded murder even though all the clues point to his guilt. She is determined to find the real murderer and uncover a plot to disrupt the peace talks. That is if she can keep herself out of danger, too!
This hotly anticipated new novel is tons of fun. Wild Hunger will be a huge hit with fans of the Chicagoland Vampire series. It almost feels as if the reader has never left that world. We’re just starting a new and glorious adventure in it! Elisa is a different from her parents and I enjoyed seeing her parents through her point of view. Elisa is also a complex character. She is conflicted and feels a heavy burden to live up to her parents’ fame. The author has built an intriguing internal conflict that Elisa will be sure to need several books to investigate. As her unusual and dangerous powers seems to becoming a problem. Thankfully, her sexy friend Gabriel Keene is there to lend a helping hand and support her doubts. (I’m sure there will be more steamy scenes as the sexual attraction between the two of them is only in the early stages!) What I like most about this new series is that Elisa has already built a gang of friends -who know each other and will love and work together to fight for justice. Their comraderie and repartee (teasing and joking) make a large part of this book so enjoyable. I can’t wait for more!!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
In Pursuits of Dragons by Anne Renwick
Paranormal Romance - Aug. 8th. 2018
4 stars
Natalia Zakharova Kinross is a most unusual Scottish lady. She is a brilliant scientist who wants to learn secrets from her venomous friend Zia. Zia is a rare poisonous dragon! Natalia and her father were scientist in Russia where they humanly studied dragons but their compatriots betrayed them. They wanted to use the precious dragons for nefarious experimentation. While trying to escape, Natalia's father died and Natalia had no choice but to marry a wastrel for protection. Her marriage was arranged by the government. But when her 'husband' tries to sell her dragon Natalia is outraged. Thankfully a friend that Natalia loves named Luke Dryden comes to help her. But is help too late? Unfortunately, the Russians have found her. They want her knowledge and to steal Zia!
Readers who love the fusion of science and fantasy will find this book an intriguing and complex story. Natalia is a passionate woman and intelligent scientist. She has suffered living life with a husband that did not respect her and stole her money. When she falls in love with Luke there is a small happiness in her life beside her beloved dragon Zia. But when Luke leaves her only to return a broken man, she is at her lowest point. I liked how a now widowed Natalia actively tells Luke that she loves him. She is a woman of integrity. Although she never loved her husband she kept her vows and tolerates his infidelities and freckles spending. I also enjoyed how Natalia uses her genetic skills save she loves. Luke loves Natalia and her dragon, Zia. When he leaves he wants to help them but ends up being captured and tortured. When he returns to Natalia he is a broken man but he feel determined to protect Natalia and Zia with his last breathe. Self-sacrificing, handsome and kind. Luke is a man who Natalia can count on and who loves her back. I enjoyed how they supported, loved and were honest with each other. They had a true and lasting relationship.
Dragons, a sexy hero and adventure.... Oh my!
Reviewed by Steph by the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Serpentine by Laurell K. Hamilton
Urban Fantasy - Aug. 7th, 2018
4 stars
In the Serpentine, Laurell K. Hamilton brings humor and her usual mix of mesmerizing sex and violence. This long awaited book will thrill fans as the darkly enigmatic and coldly practical vampire hunter, Edward is finally getting married! Edward has worked and helped train Anita in her career as a vampire hunter/U.S. Marshal. As his best friend and a woman it has been difficult to get along with Edward’s love interest Donna. Donna has always been suspicious of their relationship although they have never been intimate. But Edward believes Donna’s feelings are in the past and Anita has been invited to be a part of their wedding. Anita brings her lovers Micah and Nathaniel. But soon jealousy rears its ugly head and then a serial murderer darkens the happy nuptials. Plus Micah is distracted by a family of snake shifters who need his help. As Anita takes it upon herself to try to solve the murders, protect Edward’s family from a catastrophic meltdown and support Micah. She has her hand full. But the wedding is in jeopardy when a conniving bride’s maid and sudden doubts from the bride bring the wedding to a standstill! This joyous occasion may not end so well, Anita save it from utter disaster?
There are plenty of things to enjoy in this erotic fantasy/murder mystery. Anita has grown more comfortable with herself and her sexuality. I liked that she isn’t as self conscious and has seemed to settle down with those she loves. Anita’s books are known for their erotic scenes, however, this book seems to have less sexual scenes than usual which may be a let down for some fans. Plus, her vampire lover, Jean-Claude makes a very minor role in this book. Many fans (including myself) will feel that the best part of the storyline is the cold and calculating Edward. That he could actually marry such a sweet lady when he is such a remorseless killer is hard to understand. His ‘secret’ life with Donna is compelling reading because it is so strange. The change in his personality from when he is with his fiancee is so different than how he is in his normal ‘professional’ life is fascinating reading. Even now, I still can’t really envision Edward marrying!
The mystery in the story is interesting but somewhat anticlimactic. Most of the plot is centered on the wedding and the fights and difficulties of trying to keep it from not being called off. I wish the author has spent more time developing the snake shifter story and the mystery. The snake shifters seemed unfinished and tragic. I felt that the author didn’t take full advantage of incorporating them into the story. Overall, this was a highly entertaining read, Laurell K. Hamilton is unparalleled in creating characters that you can’t forget. I can’t wait to find out how Anita will finally settle her love life and if her wedding will also take place soon!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookahoilics Romance Book Club
Her Convenient Husband’s Return by Eleanor Webster
Historical Romance -August 1st, 2018
4 stars
Young Beth is beautiful and kind. She is also blind. When a powerful Duke who preys upon the weak is drawn to Beth’s ‘helplessness,’ she knows she is in danger. Fearful of his advances Beth finds aid in the form of her old childhood friend named Ren. Ren suggests a marriage of convenience to protect her. But once Ren marries Beth he leaves her for London. Left in the country Beth is restless. When Ren finally returns she discovers he has changed even more from the boy she once knew. Can they reconnect and find the love and friendship they once had? Or will the Duke tear them apart?
This sweet story has it all. An evil villain, the romantic savior and a maiden in distress. While Beth may seem helpless due to her disability, she is a very strong and courageous woman who does not let her blindness limit her from being independent. I liked that the author choose an atypical heroine who has unique struggles and challenges. Beth and Ren fell like a real couple since they knew each other in the past. Ren has secrets of his own and although he has always loved Beth he does not feel worthy of her. However, he trusts Beth and with her support he is able to move past the sorrow and self hatred he feels. The author has done a wonderful job of creating two characters who deserve each other.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
July Reviews
Shadow's Bane by Karen Chance
Urban Fantasy - July 31st, 2018
5 stars
Shadow's Bane sets a stunning new bar for this series as the half human, half vampire Dorina Basarab learns more about her dreaded half vampire self. This fast paced, adrenaline charged novel banks on the reader knowing the background of the main characters and doesn't hold back or dumb down for its loyal fans.
Dory's life has never been easy. If her father didn't love her so much she would been murdered long ago. As a half vampire and half human, it is well known her kind are mentally unstable, violent, and often put down. But Dory discovers that her desperate father did something to her as a child that helped suppress her lethal vampire side, thereby keeping her (mostly) sane. Unfortunately, her 'darker' half won't be denied and wants out.
As a newly made Senator, she tasked with investigating the seedy world of the underworld slave trade, which leads her into some unexpected and dangerous situations. Because although the slave trade is abhorrent, her is discovering something that makes it even more nefarious. The only good thing in her life besides her friends is the annoyingly dashing and handsome, Louis-Cesare, but as her unstable mental condition progresses she may have to save him from herself. And her friend's son (a heir to a great throne), is being targeted for assassination!
As Dory tries to stay sane, save Louis- Cesare from herself, find the culprit to the assassin plot and stop the supernatural slave trade she finds herself running out of time. But the big question is can she even save herself?
This book is thick and meaty. A fantastic delight for the senses. Karen Chance has her 'A' game on as she explores Dory's past and her father's, too. Dory's father, a high powered Senator, has always been somewhat enigmatic and fans will love the tantalizing bits sprinkled throughout the book. Poor Dory's is fearful her flashbacks and blackouts which are becoming worse and more often. As her darker half seems to be take over, her life is spiraling out of control. For the flashbacks Dory has also reveal that all she thought she knew about herself maybe wrong! She only wants to protect those she loves and see if she can repeat the spell that her father used to lock her vampire half away for good. This book is fantastic it doesn't end on a huge cliffhanger but a satisfying resolution of hope and new discovery for Dory. This book is the most transformative in the series. In fact, it is possibly the most optimistic of her stories. too. Louis-Cesare has appearances that show the devotion between them - when they aren't trying to out protect each other. Plus the mystery behind the assassination is exciting and complex. (I like that Karen Chance doesn't take her readers as simple minded.) The story line is unpredictable and I found myself often racing to catch up. The only thing is that there is so much going on in the past, in the future and through different points of view that reader must have read the series to completely understand and appreciate the subtle nuances.
This dazzling installment is my all time favorite in the Midnight's Daughter series. Dory kicks ###!
Reviewed by Steph by the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
What Ales the Earl by Sally MacKenzie
Historical Romance- July 31st, 2018
4 stars
What Ales the Earl is the first book in a new Regency series about the industrious woman of Puddledon Manor’s Benevolent Home. At the Manor, Penelope Barnes takes refuge with her illegitimate young daughter Harriet. Harriet is a plucky, precocious young lady who is being picked on by the local children in the neighborhod due to her birth. The rumor is that Pen Barnes is not really a respectable widow but the mistress to the notorious rogue Lord Walter, the Earl of Darrow. Lord Walter left a string of illegitimate children before his death. But Pen actually fell in love with his younger brother, Harry. And Harriet is Harry’s child. Harry has come back to England and has inherited his brother’s title as earl. He visits Puddledon as a favor to a friend. Pen is shocked when she sees Harry, she thought she had found sanctuary there. But his unexpected arrival throws her world into chaos! Especially when Harry discovers Harriet is his child.
Harry is happy to see his old childhood sweetheart in the town of Puddledon. Pen was beautiful but a farmer’s daughter. However, after seeing the dreary ton ladies he longs for someone who sees him, not his new title. With Pen he feels he can be himself and hopes to tempt her to be his mistress. But Pen can’t bear another heartbreak. Especially since she knows Harry has promised his mother to marry this year. And it won’t be to a farmer’s daughter. Their love is a sure thing but their happiness is something altogether different. Can they resolve their issues or will they break them apart. Only this time, forever?
This light-hearted Regency tackles difficult issues with optimism and hope. Pen is a remarkable woman. Alone and pregnant after Harry left for the military, she survived and eventually flourished. Pen learned how to read and write while successfully raising a young child. Now she is an intelligent horticulturist who is able to support herself. Although ugly rumor about her past rears its head, she still remains unashamed of her love for Harry and the result of their short affair. What is unique and refreshing was how Harry openly acknowledged Harriet to the town and how Pen speaks frankly to Harriet about the circumstances regarding her birth. Most English Regency books tend to sweep the secrets under the table which causes further damage. This book is not the typical repressed and staid, stiff upper lip English novel. The main characters openness and honest communication to each other felt very modern. I enjoyed how both of them really cared for each other and Harry never saw Pen as someone beneath him. Harriet is a mischievous and cute scamp and the other residents of the manor also have pasts that beg for further stories.
A strong series debut for this accomplished Regency author.
Reviewed by Steph by the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Girl in the Green Silk Gown (Ghost Roads) by Seanan McGuire
Urban Fantasy -July 17th, 2018
4 stars
As the second in the author’s ghost series, it continues the adventure of Rose Marshall. Rose Marshall was murdered by the famous star Bobby Cross so he could live forever. Bobby made a pact to live young and immortal, he only has to collect dead souls by killing his victims on the roads. But Bobby didn’t get Rose’s soul. Rose now ‘lives’ as a ghost on the roads where she died. Trying to protect living humans on the road from the same fate. While she has finally found an unlikely love with her old flame Gary, Bobby Cross isn’t done with Rose. Rose was the one who got away and he has vowed to finally get her soul to feed his immortality. And he will do anything to get her.
Rose is a mixture of tough and sweet. Although life dealt her a bad hand, she still continues to be optimistic and help those in need when she can. In the beginning of this book things are finally looking good for Rose. Her old boyfriend, Gary has found a way to be with her in death. They are enjoying their honeymoon phase when Rose is suddenly pulled away. Rose is the main character and although I expected Gary to play a larger part he was shuffled to the side as Rose must deal with the dangerous Bobby Cross. Rose has some very unexpected encounters and a transformation that is very funny. Rose finds herself looking for favors from the route witches who do play a large part in this plot. This novel also features a side story involving Rose’s friend Tommy. For most of the novel Rose seem to be on the run from Bobby and I liked her resourcefulness. Bobby Cross is a truly evil villain who readers will love to hate. While Rose evades him he always seems the sinister monster hiding under the bed. Just waiting to get her. This book ends with more questions for Rose and I can’t wait to find the answers.
Reviewed by Steph by the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Heroine's Journey by Sarah Kuhn
Paranormal Romance -July 3rd, 2018
4 stars
Heroine's Journey is the latest installment in the Heroine Complex series. This book can be read as a standalone although the characters from previous books play a large part in this novel and it may be difficult to catch up.
It's tough being Beatrice Tanaka. She is the younger sister to the larger than life super heroine, Evie. But Bea has super talents of her own and wants to be a superheroine, too. If only her over protective sister would let her! Feeling smothered and impotent Bea flits in life from one thing to another. But when an unexpected visit from their father occurs it changes their life completely. Their wayward father left when their mother died tragically. But now he has suddenly stopped by to give them a key which opens a mysterious box of letters their mother wrote when she was dying. Since this discovery Bea feels that their mother is coming back from the grave to communicate with her! But is it her mother or something more sinister?
This book is still wacky and stars all the beloved characters from previous books. Loyal readers of the series will be pleased by the wild story line and imagination of the author. Bea's character grows from rebelliousness to a more confident woman. The one thing that stuck me about this novel is that it is a bit more serious as it addresses Bea and Evie's reaction to their mother's death and issues from the surrounding the pain they both blocked off. I liked how the author seemed to draw from real life experience to give depth to Bea and Evie's suffering and how it affected their character growth. But the book does offset the seriousness with outrageous super powers and eclectic new characters which were fun and outrageous to read. I loved that this series grows on itself and the warm heroine family team that the author has created.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Marked by Benedict Jacka
Urban Fantasy -July 3rd, 2018
4 ½ stars
Marked is the latest in the Alex Versus series. Set in England, the hero has the gift of seeing multiple futures. But his talents and past with the Dark mages makes him untrustworthy with the Light Council which rules most of their kind. When Alex finds himself as Junior council member he finally has some say in the workings of the council. However, they generally see him as an expendable liability. Alex luckily has his true friends: Luna, Anne and Vari. But Anne worries him. He suspects she has been possessed by a powerful being. In addition, Alex is being pulled into a dangerous plot by the Light Council one that may end his life. Can he save his friends and himself before it’s too late?
Intense and packed with action. This series is a knock out. Alex is the underdog readers will love to root for. He and his friends make for a quirky, supportive family. Alex is smart and tough. Although the odds always seem to be stacked against him he still perseveres and tries to protect the ones he loves. This series keeps evolving as the author cleverly adds deep intrigue and danger to the fantasy world he has created. Alex must face things about himself he may not be comfortable with. Anne is especially challenged and readers will find her story fascinating. This book ends without a cliffhanger but does imply there are more struggles that Alex and his friends must overcome.
Exciting adventure and dark intrigue make this book a winner!
Reviewed by Steph by the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
A Lady Becomes a Governess by Diane Gaston
Historical Romance -July 1st, 2018
4 ½ stars
Fast, fun entertainment.
Lady Rebecca Pierce dreads her journey to London. Her miserly brother has forced her acceptance of marriage to a cold aristocrat named Lord Stonecroft. But fate seems to have different plans for her when on her journey she meets a governess named Miss Claire Tilson. Claire and Rebecca look almost like twin sisters! On a lark, they switch clothes to see if anyone can tell the difference between them. But suddenly tragedy strikes when the ship they are on is wrecked. When Rebecca awakens from her harrowing accident she discovers Claire is dead and meets the new Lord Brookmore. His name is Garret and Garret believes that Rebecca is his new governess. He wants to take her immediately to care for his nieces. Rebecca rashly pretends to be Claire but difficulties arise when someone from Claire’s past presses his unwanted attention on her. Rebecca must decide if she can reveal the truth to the man she has come to love and face the inevitable repercussions.
This wonderful new novel will titillate fans of Regency romance with grand adventure and misplaced identity. Although the plot is a little unrealistic the author makes it believable. When Rebecca gets a fresh start as a governess she takes advantage of it. I was caught up in her journey of independence. From the beginning, Garret and Rebecca seem to be aware of each other and genuinely like and respect each other. Garret is a war hero who is trying to fit into shoes he never expected to inherit. His good heart and kindness to Rebecca and the nieces he hardly knew won me over. As Rebecca forges her way into a new world she must prove her mettle and falls under the spell of the compassionate Garret. Garret values his nieces, unlike her brother who only saw her, as a female, a nuisance. There is also a suprise ending which should lead to another book in this series!
This lovely novel is a treasure to read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
June Reviews
Night Fall by Simon Green
Urban Fantasy - June 12th, 2018
4 ½ stars
Night Fall is a crazy, unexpected edge of your seat nearly catastrophic novel that will leave you breathless and a little sad. For this is the author’s professed last book in his series/s.
In this amazingly complex whirl-wind story the heroes from the Nightside and Secret Histories clash for dominance and it isn’t pretty. Having read both of these series is a must to understand and enjoy the evil mastermind that is Simon Green.
John Taylor is the new enforcer of the Nightside so when all the Gods leave the Street of the Gods in terror he knows something truly horrible is about to happen. Meanwhile, the Droods are in an uproar as the boundaries of the Nightside are changing. The Droods signed a pact not to interfere with the Nightside but the Matriarch feels that if the Nightside in encroaching on their territory they must retaliate. But first she sends Eddie Drood as a spy to find out what is happening in the Nightside. However, Eddie’s cover is blown when he suits up and plays hero. As the enforcer, John visits the Matriarch and asks her to leave the Nightside alone as she is violating their pact. But the Matriarch is undeterred by his warning and attacks the Nightside instead! Eddie and his girlfriend, Molly try to prevent the chaos that occurs. But can they and John Taylor find reason when nothing seems to make sense anymore?
This book was utterly entertaining but also a bit of a shell shock. The sheer body count is uncontrolled mayhem. I love both of these magical series and it felt like that the author was tired of them and wanted just finish them. I guess I felt there could have been a more gentle way for both series/s to go. Or at least each get their own ending book. But then both series have an off the wall craziness and casual violence that sort of makes sense to end this way. Instead of decimation, it would have been nice to have the main characters ride out into sunset and leave things as they were in my own imagination. Plus the big pay off at the end when the mystery is solved is anticlimactic. However, the ending does have resolution for characters and this book also demonstrates Simon Green’s sheer, psychedelic genius.
A legendary series/s with an awe inspiring, imaginative author.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Sparrow Hill Road by Seanan McGuire
Urban Fantasy- June 5th, 2018
4 stars
This reworked novel has plenty of new surmises and twists. Those who love ghost stories will find it fascinating. As a note, Sparrow Hill Road will be the first book in what appears to be a series about the heroine.
Rose Marshall. Rose was murdered by an immortal named Bobby Cross. Now a ghost Rose hitch hikes the roads trying to save living humans from her fate or at least steer their souls to a safe haven. But who will save her from Bobby? The murderer who intends on claiming Rose once and for all?
I read the original Sparrow Hill many years ago and the author had definitely added new material that makes it more cohesive, richer, and entertaining. I loved the parts about Rose’s big heart and her old flame Gary. The villain, Bobby Cross is evil indeed and I can’t wait for him to get his comeuppance. As the book flows some area are a bit choppy as it feels like there are short stories interspersed between Rose’s main story with her nemesis. But they all show the compassionate, often naive, and courageous Rose as she often risks herself in order to help humans on the dangers roads. As Rose navigates her new world she and the reader learn about the road witches, a malicious relative, long lost loves and fairy guardians. The book is not strictly linear. As Rose starts as an inexperienced ghost we learn of her death, her lost love and the man intent on claiming her The villainous Bobby Cross is terrifying and Rose was brave enough to stand up to him. I highly enjoyed the nice dose of romance and nostalgia. However, although the end of the novel has a unique and satisfying conclusion it does leave Rose’s future uncertain which will hopefully addressed in the next book.
Fabulous and spooky read!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Brief Cases by Jim Butcher
Urban Fantasy -June 5th, 2018
4 ½ stars
Brief Cases is a compilation of shorts from the Dresden universe. All are well written well and not all the stories include Harry as the main character. While I have read most of the stories there were a few that I not read. It was a fun surprise into the lighter side of Harry’s investigative work.
Characters that have their own stories include Molly, Harry’s young apprentice and her difficult journey into the realities of the cold, Winter Court. Another story concerns the Warden Anastasia as she travels to the old west to hunt down a malicious warlock and meets a famous lawman. However, my favorite of the guest stars is the surprising crime lord, John Marcone. As he seems to help a helpless child from a powerful and scary creature. Other stories include why the Chicago Cubs are always on a losing streak and Harry’s intervention into the Bigfoot family. All told with the wit and humor of our implacable and indomitable hero.
The last story is the only one which has not been previously printed. It is called Zoo Day as Harry takes his previously unknown daughter Maggie and her guardian ‘dog,’ Mouse on a fun afternoon to the zoo only to find danger where they least expect it. Told from different point of views, it made me want the author to write more so these characters might have their own adventure series, too! (Maybe a YA version/series as Maggie in the starring role?)
This book was a delight to read from beginning to end. The new short, Zoo Day was a approximately fifty or so pages long. However, the reason I am not giving a full five stars is that while I enjoyed it and greatly appreciate having all the stories in one book.... Well, this hardcover seems rather expensive for stories that have already come out for the most part. I think it would have been more reasonable to print as an over sized paperback instead. But for fans of urban fantasy this book is a must read!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club