Book Review: The House of Months and Years by Emma Trevayne

The House of Months and Years by Emma Trevayne is a middle grade novel with a Gothic or horror feel. When her distant aunt and uncle die, Amelia Howling is forced to move into their home when they leave her parents in charge of their children. Her parents assure her that it will be like having a grand adventure with three new siblings, but Amelia is not convinced. Luckily, the house is large, filled with nooks and crannies perfect for hiding from her cousins. But even with all the nooks and crannies, the rumbling and crumbling rooms are more sinister than they seem. The house was built years ago by a creature named Horatio, and he’s been waiting for the perfect human inhabitant: Amelia. Horatio has the power to travel through time and memories, and lures Amelia into his world. The memories of children, he told her, were the best, and Amelia agreed—her cousins were full of good memories. Until she noticed that once she and Horatio visited a memory, it was gone forever. And she had been stealing the good memories of her cousins and their parents without even noticing! Horrified and scared, Amelia lets her cousins in on her secret, and asks them for help. Together, they must race through time to recover their minds and break the perfect clockwork of the evil Calendar House.

The House of Months and Years is an eerie adventure with a Gothic atmosphere that comes alive. The writing style is lyrical, with significant metaphors and descriptions that paint the picture of the moods of the characters and the atmosphere of the house. I liked Amelia’s character, who has to make some big changes and knows that what she is feeling towards her now larger family is not fair to them, but cannot change those feelings. The concept of the Boogeyman stealing good memories and the steps Amelia and her cousins had to take together make for a compelling story. I could find no fault with the story, but I never really felt enthralled by the story even though it was exactly what I normally like. Good characters, a creepy atmosphere and big bad, and coming to terms with relationships and life were all there. I think the volume of descriptive text was what

The House of Months and Years had all the things that usually make me love a book, but for some reason I just never got completely drawn in. The story had suspense, character development, and some good creepy moments. I am not sure why the book and I never connected, but I think it will be a favorite for many readers.

Book Review: Ghoul Scouts: Night of the Unliving UnDead by Steve Bryant, Mark Stegbauer, Jason MIllet

Ghoul Scouts: Night of the Unliving Undead is a collection of the four issues of the graphic novel series by Steve Bryant, Mark Stegbauer, and Jason Millet. Something stranger than usual haunts Full Moon Hollow, Paranormal Capital of the World. Adults either can t see it, can t remember it, or go crazy from it. So when a zombie outbreak threatens the town, only a group of misfit scouts can save it!

Ghoul Scouts: Night of the Unliving Undead is a well drawn and colored graphic novel that combines the classic zombie survival adventure with coming of age and leads into a larger supernatural story that I hope to see more of in the future. The teenagers that have to defend themselves, and save the town, are a nice blend of personalities. All of the teens, both girls and boys, are smart and capable while still having plenty of vulnerabilities and insecurities. I like that there were some emotionally charged moments in the story, right along side the fight for survival and mystery solving to stop the crisis. The elements of the story balanced nicely, with nothing feeling like it was tossed in there to appease editors or publishers. More importantly, the story left me wanting more while still offering enough of a conclusion that it left me satisfied.

Ghoul Scouts: Night of the Unliving Undead is a fun romp through surviving a zombie invasion with a group of teenagers. the characters and the action were deeper than I expected and I plan on checking out what else Bryant has released. 

Book Review: For the Bear's Eyes Only (Grizzlies Gone Wild) by Kathy Lyons

For the Bear's Eyes Only is the third book in the Grizzlies Gone Wild series by Kathy Lyons. While it would be helpful to have read one or both of the previous books, I do not think it necessary to enjoy this read. Those that know the series will certainly get more out of it because of the larger story arc, but newcomers will not be left completely out in the cold. The first book was The Bear Who Loved Me, and the second book was License to Shift (which I somehow missed reading).

Life as Alan Carman knew it is over. After he was captured and tortured by a mysterious enemy, the lawyer's latent grizzly-shifter DNA was triggered. The old Alan is gone, and in his place is a terrifying vicious beast that lives and breathes for revenge. He will track down the person who did this to him-and it'll be the last thing he ever does. Tonya Kappes refuses to let Alan run headlong to his death. A bear-shifting deputy-and the Gladwin Clan's beta-Tonya faces Alan with one weapon: the love that's lingered between them since they were kids. But the idealistic man she knew has changed into something raw, primal, and unbelievably sexy. And, if Alan can't learn to love the beast inside himself, maybe he can love the animal in her.

For the Bear's Eyes Only is a good installment of the series, an I was eager to see how Alan and Tonya come together. Alan has been altered, and he is now a shifter, but not the bear he always wanted to be. He is a monster, and is willing to kill to prevent the woman that made him this way from hurting anyone else. Then comes Tonya, the woman he has always loved but could never have, trying to bring him home and convince him he is not the monster he fears. Together they search for the person behind the experiments and in the process find themselves. Alan needs to come to terms with his new life, and learn not to hate himself while Tonya needs to come to terms with her emotions and the pain Alan is going through. I love that despite the wild nature they now share, the pair actually talk things out and deal with their problems rather than jumping into bed and forgetting about them- though there is plenty of that too. They actually work on the emotional aspect of their issues, both shared and individual. This always earns respect from me for the author.

For the Bear's Eyes Only is a good read, but not one that wowed me. It is a must read for fans of the author or series, but those that are not invested in the story might not enjoy it as much as the rest of us.

Early Book Review: Wolf’s Clothing (Legend Tripping) by E.J. Russell

Wolf’s Clothing by E.J. Russell is the second book in the Legend Tripping series. It is currently scheduled for release on October 10 2016. I was somehow unaware it was part of a series until I started reading it. It did take me a bit to catch up, and I think that readers that have already read Stumptown Spirits will have a head start. However, I did catch up and full enjoy the novel despite the lack.

For Trent Pielmeyer, the answer is run like hell. Run away from his hostile family, away from the disbelieving cops, and far, far, far away from anything that smacks of the supernatural. After seven years’ captivity in a whacked-out alternate dimension, he is so over legend tripping.When Christophe Clavret spots Trent in a Portland bar, he detects a kindred spirit—another man attempting to outrun the darkness of his own soul. But despite their sizzling chemistry, Trent’s hatred of the uncanny makes Christophe hesitant to confide the truth: he’s a werewolf, one of a dwindling line, the victim of a genetic curse extending back to feudal Europe. But dark forces are at work, threatening more than their growing love. If Christophe can’t win Trent’s trust, and if Trent can’t overcome his fear of the paranormal, the cost could be Trent’s freedom and Christophe’s humanity. Or it might be both their lives.

Wolf’s Clothing is an interesting book that initially took me by surprise. I wish I had read the previous book first, but I feel like the character development and story stood well on its own. Trent has survived seven years of horror, and come out the other side only to have to hide the reason he was missing and deal with the family issues he had been trying to avoid his entire life. In trying to ground himself he runs to the only people that know his story- only to discover that his plan is no longer a viable option. Christophe has his own problems, and when the pair meet they are instantly in lust. I like that the plot is complex, as are the characters. This could have been an easy love story with only the supernatural revelations standing in their way- but the plot against Christophe, the wedding, and Trent's facing of his demons make the story move quickly. I like that the story is a LBGTQ romance under all the other things going on, and is not used as a gimmick or attention grabber. It flows perfectly with the story and felt fully organic rather than because the author was trying to fit in a niche or be trendy. I love a read that defies exceptions in a multitude of way while feeling like it just happened rather than being planned. The rest of the story is so full of complications, betrayal, and coming to understand the bigger picture that it was simply wonderful.

Wolf’s Clothing made me eager to go back and read Stumptown Spirits, and explore the few other books by the author. I think readers that enjoy urban fantasy and complex characters and conflicts will enjoy the read. I would not recommend it to read that are upset by non traditional couples and LBGTQ stories.

Book Review: Blood of the Earth by Faith Hunter

Blood of the Earth is the first book in the Soulwood series by Faith Hunter.Those that have read the Jane Yellowrock series will have a head start, but newcomers to Hunter's world will be able to catch up quickly.

When Nell Ingram met skinwalker Jane Yellowrock, she was almost alone in the world, exiled by both choice and fear from the cult she was raised in, defending herself with the magic she drew from her deep connection to the forest that surrounds her. Now, Jane has referred Nell to PsyLED, a Homeland Security agency policing paranormals, and agent Rick LaFleur has shown up at Nell’s doorstep. His appearance forces her out of her isolated life into an investigation that leads to the vampire Blood Master of Nashville. Nell has a team—and a mission. But to find the Master’s kidnapped vassal, Nell and the PsyLED team will be forced to go deep into the heart of the very cult Nell fears, infiltrating the cult and a humans-only terrorist group before time runs out.

Blood of the Earth is a happy surprise for me. I have always hear good things about Hunter, but just had not invested the time in reading her other books. I figured with the start of a new series I could jump on in, and I am so glad I did. Nell is a complex character, struggling to stay safe after leaving the religious cult she was raised in. She might have left the compound, but she still struggles with the conventions that creep into her daily life choices. Then there is her unique ability to work with the earth and her connection to the forest. When Rick comes and asks for help her life is disrupted even more and the characters and readers fall down the rabbit hole together. As Nell helps his team search for missing girls she comes to further understand herself, her gifts, and how much of what she knows is actually the truth. The investigation is complicated, as are the dynamics of the cult and Nell’s family. I really enjoyed some of the character interaction and growth, the PsyLED team is a group of characters that I want to know more about and whose interplay (among themselves and with Nell) is nearly perfect. There is plenty of groundwork laid down for more investigations and growth for Nell- and the entire team. I am very interested to see where this leads.

Blood of the Earth is a solid start to a new series, even for those of us that have not read the previous books by Hunter. The characters and story are complex, with plenty of twists and turns to keep those pages turning. The only reason I have not read the Jane Yellowrock series is because I discovered it after it was significantly underway and I did not have time to catch up- now it is has risen up my to be read pile and I will find the time. 

Early Book Review: Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: A Spoon Too Short (Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: A Spoon Too Short #1-5)by Arvind Ethan David, Ilias Kyriazis

Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: A Spoon Too Short collects the five issues of this story arc by Arvind Ethan David and Ilias Kyriazis and is currently scheduled for release on September 20 2016. After the many and conflicting versions of the legendary Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Douglas Adams created Dirk Gently: a detective with a belief in the fundamental interconnectedness of all things, a troubled relationship with the laws of probability and quantum physics, and a love of cats and pizza. 

After the events of Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency and The Long Dark Tea Time, but prior to the detective's relocation to California in The Interconnectedness of All Kings, Dirk finds himself investigating a bizarre case of poaching, dumbstruck tourists, and the inner membranes of a rhinoceros nose.

Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: A Spoon Too Short is a solid graphic novel and kept my interest through the entire story. I will admit that I have not read as much about Dirk Gently's adventures as I would like, but his hair still always surprises me, and sometimes distracts me. However, despite his distracting hair, I really found myself fully engaged by the story and wanting more.the art work is as quirky as the story and the characters, and does a great job of illustrating what readers know from the text, and adding more information and emotion into the mix. I found the characters well defined, although there is some background into a relationship or two that I definitely want more information on, but that is my fault for not having read previous stories, rather than the fault of the authors.

Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency: A Spoon Too Short has a complete and compelling storyline, with a satisfying conclusion and more than enough weirdness to keep me happy. However, it also inspired me to read more because Dirk's personal story left plenty of questions on the table, and I would love to explore his exploits more. This graphic novel offers the right balance of answers and leaving readers wanting more without leaving them feeling cheated.

Book Review: Skeleton Island (Araminta Spookie) by Angie Sage

Skeleton Island is the seventh book in the Araminta Spookie series by Angie Sage. I have not read the entire series, I have only read book number one, My Haunted House, and book number six, Gargoyle Hall. I think newcomers could catch up quickly, but knowing some of the quirks of the characters beforehand does make the characters easier to understand. 

Araminta and her best friend Wanda are going on a school trip to Skeleton Island, a place rumored to be the site of a scary ghost shipwreck. And when the pair is stranded overnight, they discover that there might be more truth to the island's name than they would have preferred. Now some terrifying pirate skeletons are on the loose, and they want to take the girls down to Davy Jones's locker with them! Will Araminta, Wanda, and an unexpected friend be able to thwart the ghostly crew, avoid a watery fate, and maybe find some lost treasure to boot?

Skeleton Island is as entertaining and interesting as the previous books that I have read from this series. Araminta and Wanda are two very different girls, and best friends both because of and despite those differences. The have to deal with the normal school age struggles like family, bullies, and school work, however there is always a bit of a twist to Araminta’s view of the world. When they are stranded on Skeleton Island after a school trip the stories they had told about pirates, measure, and ghost seem to come true- but of course there is much more to the story than even they knew. I like that things are never as simple as they seem, and that smarts and compassion are what save the day.

Skeleton Island is a fun story with plenty of adventure and some scary fun. I think that readers that enjoy some spooky fun with their adventure will enjoy the read. 

Book Review: Shadow Rider (Shadow #1) by Christine Feehan

Shadow Rider by Christine Feehan is the start of the new Shadow series. Whether it’s fast cars or fast women, Stefano Ferraro gets what he wants. When he’s not fodder for the paparazzi, he commands Ferraro family businesses—both legitimate and illegitimate. While their criminal activity is simply a rumor yet to be proven, no one knows the real truth. The Ferraros are a family of shadow riders capable of manipulating light and dark, an ability Stefano thought ran in his family alone—until now. With little left to her name, Francesca Cappello has come to Chicago in hopes of a new life. She wasn’t expecting to attract the attention of a man with primal hunger in his eyes, driven to claim her as his to protect and to please. And if he discovers her secret, it could ruin her.

Shadow Rider is a return to the high action stories that I used to love from Feehan. Stefano is a dangerous man, with a gift and large, powerful family that make him even more troublesome. He is an extreme alpha male, with an overdeveloped need to protect those around him and lingering issues from childhood. Francesca is fiercely independent and running from trouble that she does not want to bring to anyone's doorstep. She comes to stay near her only friend because of a promised job, and gets far more than she bargained for when she catches Stefano's eye. Personalities collide and tempers flare, but Stefano always gets what he wants, and he wants Francesca safe and much more. His protective streak, her determination, and the danger following her collide in a suspense filled story. There is plenty of sex, and a whole bunch of bossing around. I was a little disappointed in Francesca's willingness to give up things that are important to her, but it is consistent with the characters. A much better showing by Feehan than I have read in the last few years, much closer to the books that had me enthralled in the beginning of her Carpathian series, but still not quite there. It leave me hopeful for this series.

Shadow Rider reminds me of the early books I read from Feehan. There are plenty of sexy times, a seriously over alpha male, and a sassy woman or three (prerequisites for her books) as well as the danger filled plot that kept me interested to see what they might face next, which I have found lacking in the last few books that I have read in the Carpathian, Ghost Walker, and Sea Haven series that I used to love. 

Book Review: Nightstruck by Jenna Black

Nightstruck by Jenna Black is a young to new adult novel. Becket, walking her dog one winter evening, fears it’s an abandoned baby left out in the cold. But it is something else—something evil—and it tricks Becket into opening a doorway to another realm, letting a darkness into our world, a corruption that begins transforming Philadelphia into a sinister and menacing version of itself, but only at night. The changes are subtle at first, causing Becket to doubt her senses and her sanity. But soon the nightmarish truth is impossible to deny: By day, the city is just a city, but at night it literally comes alive with malevolent purpose. Brick and steel become bone, streetlights turn into gallows, and hungry alleys wait to snare mortal victims. Terrified citizens huddle indoors after dusk, as others succumb to the siren song of the night, letting their darker sides run wild. Once, Becket’s biggest problems were living up to her police commissioner father’s high expectations and a secret crush on her best friend’s boyfriend. Now she must find a way to survive and protect her loved ones…before the darkness takes her as well.

Nightstruck is a solid opening to a new urban fantasy series from Black. Becket is an independent girl. Her parents are divorced, and her father is more than a little overprotective, but Becket still has a good deal of anonymity and a good head on her shoulders. When a strange night's adventure leads to much bigger problems in the town she needs to face up to her crush on her best friend's boyfriend, her friend's flaws, and her role in the destruction of her city. Her parent's divorce is nothing compare to the living nightmare she is now facing. There is a good deal of character and world building, but it is paced well and left me caring about Becket and more than her physical well being. My only complaint is how much was left unanswered at the end of the book. I hate waiting for such important details, and it was a little frustrating. Thankfully, most of the character crises were tied up, and left me satisfied enough that I did not throw my Kindle across the room.

Nightstruck is a reasonable fast paced novel that left me wanting more. There was a fairly satisfying conclusion, but also a huge cliffhanger that left me a little frustrated at the same time. Urban fantasy fans will enjoy the read, but I might wait until the second book in the series comes out so that you can find out what happens next right away. Although, who's to say book two will not end in a similar fashion? 

Book Review: I Dream of Dragons by Ashlyn Chase

I Dream of Dragons is the first book in the Boston Dragons series by Ashlyn Chase. While this is the start of a new series, Chase fans will recognize the Boston location and several characters from the Strange Neighbors series. It can stand on its own just fine, but readers that are caught up on the entire reading list from Chase might see some of their favorite characters have a cameo here.

When Rory Arish and his two fiery dragon siblings are run out of their ancestral Irish home, it seems their luck has run out. That is until they arrive in Boston and find a paranormal-friendly apartment building. There is only one problem; Rory's new lair has simultaneously been rented to an infuriating woman who is as stubborn as she is beautiful and will not leave 'her' apartment matter how steamed he may be. Amber McNally is a down-on-her-luck flight attendant. She needs this apartment, and not even a fire-breathing dragon with his Irish charm and scorching good looks is going to scare her away. Holing up in their respective corners, a battle of wills ensues. Who will be the first to blink, or give in to their off-the-charts chemistry and decide to make this unorthodox living arrangement a little more permanent? 

I Dream of Dragons is a great weekend read. Rory and his sister have been falsely accused for theft by leprechauns and banned from Ireland. Amber is looking for a new home and a new start in life. When the two desperate renters clash over an apartment and more things get heated in more ways than one. I like that we also get a look at how Rory's sister settle in and the leprechauns search for the missing gold. This might be a fun, light hearted read with plenty of humor and hot moments. However, it is not simple. There is plenty going on and it kept me eagerly turning pages and looking forward to see what crazy thing was going to happen next. Supernaturals of all sorts, including ghosts and muses, keep things very interesting. I got a kick out of the book and am fast becoming a fan of Chase.

I Dream of Dragons is a fast and fun paranormal romance. I like that there were several interesting new characters introduced and I wonder where Chase will take the dragons and residence of the paranormal club from here.

Book Review: Out of the Broom Closet (Love Spells Gone Wrong #3) by Ashlyn Chase

Out of the Broom Closet is the third book in the Love Spells Gone Wrong series by Ashlyn Chase. The first two books are The Cupcake Coven and Tug of Attraction. I have not read the previous books in this series, but I think that each can also be read as a stand alone as well.

Michele Erikson, a part fey witch, would never harm others with spells, even if it’s the only way to save herself from a crazed stalker wielding black magic, who has been stalking her and is willing to kill her if he cannot have her for himself. However, what she does not know is that her new friend Vic Matthews has been hired by her stepfather Alex to protect her. The Ex-NFL player turned bodyguard might have started to help out of obligation, it is not long before he is falling for Michele and believing in the magic she can wield. Vic will do whatever it takes to save her, even if it means convincing her to step out of the broom closet and come out fighting!

Out of the Broom Closet might be the third book in a series, but aside from a couple characters that must have appeared in the previous books, it can stand well on its own. Michele has been running and hiding from her ex, a man that was once a wiccan like her but that fell into the darker magics which changed him. He is determined to control Michele and take what he wants, if only to further grow his own power. Vic is a former football player with his own protection company. He has had bad relationship experiences, and is looking for nothing more than to do his job, at least until he sets his eyes on Michele. Thrown together they need to come to understand each other, despite some deception and misunderstandings, to defend themselves from the evil and power hungry witch and protect those they care for from harm. I like that there are a couple little side stories woven into the story, and that the emotional struggles of the main players are realistic. The story had me eagerly turning pages and thinking about some of the side characters long after I finished the book.

Out of the Broom Closet is a fun, quick read that does touch on some heavy topics. It might have some triggers for readers that have dealt with stalking or domestic abuse, but it is handled very well and I think it could be an entertaining read for fans of Chase and books that balance danger and humor. 

Book Review: Grave Illusions (Jess Vandermire, Vampire Hunter #1) by Lina Gardiner

Grave Illusions is the first book in the Jess Vandermire, Vampire Hunter series by Lina Gardiner.  Lieutenant Jess Vandermire, New York City police officer, is uniquely specialized to recognize and fight an unseen threat. It's her job to forge a black ops team, an assortment of men and women who wouldn't be considered for the job under normal circumstances. For her, it's all about retribution until ex-cop John Brittain is recruited to her team. Suddenly, her priorities aren't quite so easily definable. John Brittain has a chip on his shoulder and is as tough as they come. But is he ready for the whole truth? When Jess tells him the truth about herself, will he stay and fight or will he turn against her and not only threaten their lives but destroy the fragile relationship developing between them?

Grave Illusions is an urban fantasy with a solid show or world and character building, and a good pacing. John is a well built character that kept my interest. I like that neither Jess nor John are perfect characters, or so completely flawed that redemption seems unlikely. The dangers they face, and the team they put together, and very well written and capture the attention and imagination. They face large challenges, but deal with them head on, forthe most part. My only problem with the book is that it felt like there might have been a prequel or relate series before it (none of which seem to exist) since some of the characters had such complex back stories and interconnected relationships which readers only get a glimpse of. However, I still greatly enjoyed the complex reveals of some of those pieces, and the depths of the characters and larger story arch.

Grave Illusions is a solid start to a urban fantasy series. The characters are story are intriguing, with some new twists to the well explored ideas about vampires and the law. I have added this series to my to be read list, and look forward to reading on. 

Book Review: Six Moon Summer (Seasons of the Moon, #1) by S.M. Reine

Six Moon Summer is the first book in the Seasons of the Moon series by S.M. Reine. Unlike the previous books I have read from Reine, this is more for the young and new adult audiences, but I think everyone that enjoys her work can enjoy it. I have the rest of this series already, and if you want to read all of her series in strict chronological order this is where you should start. 

Rylie's been bitten and she is changing. And now she has three months to find a cure before becoming a werewolf forever. Rylie Gresham hates everything about summer camp: the food, the fresh air, the dumb activities, and the other girls in her cabin. The fact that she is here because her parents sent her here as they work out their divorce. But the worst part is probably being bitten by a werewolf. Being a teenager is hard enough, but now she is craving raw flesh and struggles with uncontrollable anger. If she doesn't figure out a way to stop the transformation, then at the end of summer, her life is worse than over. She'll be a monster.

Six Moon Summer is a young adult werewolf book, with a touch of romance, which manages to escape feeling like every other book that can have that statement applied to it. Rylie is dealing with a realistic emotional crisis or two, and I have to say I liked her almost immediately because of her lack of desire for 'girl friends' and that her real friends were mainly guys. I did not like that she had to do the too common mistrust of the girlfriends of said guys, only because she is just so skinny, blond, and all that jazz. However, that minor blip was my only real irritation. The connection between Seth and Rylie is strong, and the romance is done in such a way that it does not overpower the emotional issues Rylie is dealing with our the paranormal aspects of the story. I think she does take the whole introduction to the fact that the world holds real monsters and hunters out there a little too well, but she handles most of her crisis in a similar manor, so it is consistent with her character. I am willing to chalk up the couple little things that did not work perfectly for me up to the fact that this is the first book, in the first series, by the author. Since I really enjoy some of the later series’ I can see where some of the ideas and style that I have come to enjoy so much started.

Six Moon Summer is a good start to the series, and what has become a part of a much bigger world. I really enjoy Reine's writing style and plan on masking it through all of her books, eventually. A great pick for readers that read faster than their favorite authors can keep up, since there is enough of a back list to get you started and more on the way!

Book Review: Hotter Than Helltown (Preternatural Affairs #3) by S.M. Reine

Hotter Than Helltown is the third book in the Preternatural Affairs series by S.M. Reine. The audiobook version was read by Jeffrey Kafer. This series does have major plot points that build upon each other. I do not recommend skipping ahead. If this sounds book interesting to you, I would start at the beginning with Witch Hunt and then Silver Bullet. Knowing who everyone is, and the intricacies of their connections, is key to fully understanding and enjoying the read.

A killer is mutilating bodies in Los Angeles. Agent Cèsar Hawke is on the case, but the murderer is ahead of him. Wiping the memories of the dead so that the team's necrocognitive can't talk to them? Done. Preventing magical reconstruction of the crime scenes? Oh yeah. And the murders keep getting more brutal while Cèsar struggles to catch up. The best way to heat up a cold case is to go to Helltown, where Los Angeles's most powerful evil hides out, but even those demons are afraid of the murderer. Their fear adds one more question to the growing pile of unknowns. What kind of bad guy is too hot for Helltown?

Hotter Than Helltown is just as fast paced and gritty as the previous books in this series. I feel like we get less of a glimpse into some of the characters, but we get a much deeper look at Fritz and even Cèsar than we have previously. They both push themselves farther than they have had to in the past, but they have never been up against such high stakes before. The Vice President Janet, who already is less than fond of Fritz and Cèsar, is in the office as Cèsar studies up for the most important test of his life. Meanwhile a big bad that has Helltown afraid is killing and mutilating its unlucky victims. The odds against them are high, but so is Cèsar's determination to get out of this alive and with his memory intact. High action and some gore keep the tension high and attention riveted to the pages. Some of the aspects of this book might offend some religious readers, but I think most people that have read this far into the series can handle it.

Hotter Than Helltown is just what I have come to expect from this series. My only issue is that I just realized how far behind I am in this series, four more books to go, and how much I want to explore the author's other works at this point. This is only a problem because of the size of my to be read pile already. 

Book Review: SEAL Wolf in Too Deep by Terry Spear

SEAL Wolf in Too Deep by Terry Spear is the 18th(!) book in the Heart of the Wolf series. Each of the books can do fine as a stand alone, but if you read more than one you will have a better grasp of the pack dynamics and how everyone is connected.

Debbie Renaud is a police diver working on criminal cases with SEAL Allan Rappaport. She admires him greatly for his missions in the Navy, plus he's just plain HOT. Allan seems to share her attraction, but what she doesn't know is that her partner is wolf shifter. Allan is really hung up on his smart, beautiful dive partner, but he can't get involved with a human outside dive duty. Yet when she gets between a werewolf hunter and his intended victim, one of the members of Allan's pack, they run into real trouble, and their lives are altered forever.

SEAL Wolf in Too Deep tells the story of Allan and his new dive partner Debbie. both are fighting their attraction, but for different reasons. Debbie thinks they are both keeping the distance due to respect and professionalism. However, Allan's wolfish side and the responsibilities that come with it are his main reasons. The pair are each strong, smart, and honorable people that love their jobs. both get lost in the process of piecing together clues and solving crime. I like Debbie's reasonableness and adaptability. I was a little taken aback by just how flexible and adaptable she was once the whole werewolf thing comes into play. However, because of the situations and circumstances it did make some sense. I liked Allan's caring and respectful side, but I found his inner confidence that everything would work out in his favor to be a little annoying after awhile. However, at least he kept those thoughts to himself, because I am pretty sure that Debbie would have kicked him, much like I really wanted to do a few times. Despite that, I still enjoyed the read and will keep on with the series.

SEAL Wolf in Too Deep is a solid addition to the series and world by Spear. Thus far the writing quality of the series has stayed fairly consistent, which is hard when you get to a certain number of books in the same larger world. This series is an example of it done right.

Book Review: Finders Reapers by Anna Staniszewski

Finders Reapers is the second book in the Switched at First Kiss series by Anna Staniszewski. The first book in the series is I'm With Cupid. It is important to read the books in order to understand the details of the world and some of the crises that Marcus and Lena have faced together already.

Marcus is a Cupid. Lena is a Reaper. Neither are ready for any more supernatural surprises. They just got their powers un-swapped, however things aren't as back to normal as they seem. On his next assignment, Marcus's "love boost" is a little too powerful. Then Lena's soul to capture sort of, well, escapes. The cause? Lena and Marcus's powers are still intertwined! Their emotions are affecting each other's power. So, basically the fate of the world depends on them getting along in their brand new romance.

Finders Reapers is a solid follow up to I'm with Cupid, and has new characters and problems for our supernatural couple to face. While their powers are their own again, things still are not quite right. Assignments are not going quite right, and both Lena and Marcus are keeping things from the other. a new girl at school, Lena's mother coming to town, and more makes their struggles even harder. They are fighting so hard to be the 'perfect' couple, that trust and a real connection seem to be as fragile as their powers. Can they each get a better control of their emotions, grip on their powers, and find a way to be the couple they want to be? They each need to learn a little more about themselves, and come a bit more into their own confidence before they can unravel the web of problems that seem to surround them. I like that the world Staniszewski created has become more in depth and complicated in this book, while the main focus for this reader was still the coming of age and character growth for Lena and Marcus. While there is certainly a number of questions unanswered, I felt that the book did not leave readers on a cliff edge. I was satisfied with the ending, but still want to know more. Pretty perfect balance for any ongoing series.

Finders Reapers is a charming and fun middle grade read that will appeal to kids looking to escape, and to those looking to see a little bit of themselves, in two main characters facing a variety of problems. I enjoyed the read, and wonder where the series will go from here, because there are plenty of questions that still need to be answered.

Book Review: Boundary Crossed by Melissa F. Olson

Boundary Crossed by Melissa F. Olson is the first book in the Boundary Magic series. I had already read the second book, Boundary Lines, and needed to go back and read how it all started because of how much I liked the world. Now that I have two of these books read, I need to read the a novella that comes between to two as well as a previous series as I wait Boundary Born to be published. The joys, and heartache, of finding a new favorite author!

After her twin sister’s brutal murder, former US Army Sergeant Allison “Lex” Luther vowed to protect her niece, Charlie. So when two vampires try to kidnap the baby, it quickly turns into a fight to the death—Lex’s death, that is. She wakes up to two shocking discoveries: she has miraculously survived the fight, and baby Charlie is a “null,” gifted with the ability to weaken supernatural forces, and a target for creatures who want to control that power. Determined to guarantee her niece’s safety, Lex makes a deal with the local vampires. She sets out with the mysterious—and undead—“fixer” Quinn to track down whoever’s responsible for the kidnapping, sharpening her newfound magic skills along the way. But the closer she gets to the truth, the more dangerous her powers become.

Boundary Crossed is perfect beginning to a series that has already been added to my must read list. Lex has a rough history and is still reeling from her time on the front lines and the loss of her twin sister. When she finds two people toting around her niece and gets herself involved the the world of magic, vampires, and other Old World residents she gets more than she bargained for. This is a solid introduction to Lex’s family, the witches that help her, and the vampires that run the town. There is so much more to this story though. I love the combination of missed movie and modern media references, especially when combined with the love of older movies and children’s movies. The juxtaposition only start there, and make the series such an interesting read. There characters each have their own flaws and damage, as well as hidden strengths. 

Boundary Crossed is a great start to an urban fantasy series. Fans of the genre that are looking for an author with wit and some seriously good characters need to give Olson a read. She has just been added to my must read list, not just my to be read pile.  

Book Review: Silver Bullet (Preternatural Affairs #2) by S.M. Reine

Silver Bullet is the second book in the Preternatural Affairs urban fantasy series by S.M. Reine. I listened to the audiobook which is read by Jeffrey Kafer. This series does have major plot points that build upon each other. I do not recommend skipping ahead. If this sounds book interesting to you, I would start at the beginning with Witch Hunt. Knowing who everyone is, and the intricacies of their connections, is key to fully understanding and enjoying the read.

Former private investigator Cèsar Hawke has one rule: He doesn't deal with dead bodies. That's why he enlisted with the Magical Violations Department in the Office of Preternatural Affairs. He's happy tracking down witches that commit petty crimes, but he leaves the homicides to other agents. Except that he's been assigned to a new team and the job has suddenly changed. Now Cèsar has to deal with dead bodies. He also has to deal with necromancers, murderous cults, and demons that can stop a man's heart with fear. This isn't the job he signed up for, but it's the job he needs to do. If he survives the first week.

Silver Bullet picks up right after Witch Hunt ends. Cèsar and crew on an investigation trying to find the source of a flux in demonic energy. This leads them into a casino run by demons, and on the tail of werewolves, a cult, and an ancient power that seems to be waking up. Between the living nightmare demons, the giant spiders, and the apple cult hunting for stones of power no one is happy. The additional help of a few Union members adds a little back up for a team that received little to no training on demons, and is now deep in demons. I like that the character building and action continue in high gear, with magic is less important this time around. I liked getting deeper into the psyche of Cèsar, Fritz and Suzy- although Isobel is still a bit of a mystery. I also like that while there are hints of attraction between characters romance is a back burner storyline, rather than taking over the entire story.  I find this to be a grittier series than my much loved Dresden Files from Jim Butcher, but about equal in wit and smart alekcy comments.

Silver Bullet is a great balance of the paranormal and mystery. There is plenty of sardonic wit, action, hold your breath moments, and silliness to boot. A fast and fun serious to keep happy readers up well past their bedtime.  Listeners get the bonus of being able to listen to the talented Jeffrey Kafer do some high class voice acting at the some time as they get lost in Cèsar's world.

Book Review: Boundary Lines by Melissa F. Olson

Boundary Lines by Melissa F. Olson second book in Boundary Magic series. While I have not read the previous book in the series (though I plan top now) I felt like I bought up pretty quickly and was still able to enjoy the story. 

Fitting into the Old World isn’t going very well for Boulder boundary witch Allison “Lex” Luther. She may have earned a place in a vampire’s service, but now it seems as if every supernatural creature in town has found a reason to hate her. And when Lex and her partner are assigned to investigate the suspicious disappearance of two vampires during the night of the full moon, they find themselves with more questions than answers. The crusade for answers will lead Lex all over the Colorado Old World, from a prison cell for a broken werewolf to a haunted Denver brothel. And when Lex determines the responsible party, the hunt is just beginning: something has been awakened in Boulder, something as old and powerful as it is terrifying. Only the woman with death in her blood can stop what’s coming.

Boundary Lines had a good balance of action, world building, and a touch of romance. While I missed most of the set up by not reading the first book, I feel like there was enough refresher information for returning readers that I got the gist of what had happened, and it was not so much that those returning readers would have been bored. Lex is making the best of a bad situation, trying to do the right things to keep everyone safe, even if they do not like her. The tension between Lex and the vampires and witch community is strong, and Lex’s dislike of social situations in general made me like her immediately. I liked the mystery, the danger, and the character development for Lex and the circle of people in her life. The compassion and need to protect others is a diving force in her, one that trumps all else, which made me like her even more. I need to go back and read the first book, not because I need holes filled, but because I want to know more. The characters are complex, and their connections even more so. 

Boundary Lines is the perfect pick for anyone that likes urban fantasy or mysteries but want complex characters and situations. The pacing is steady, and there are plenty of twists and turns coupled with tough choices that will keep those pages turning well past bed time.

Melissa F. Olson was raised in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, and studied film and literature at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. After a brief stint in the Hollywood studio system, Melissa moved to Madison, Wisconsin, where she eventually acquired a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, a husband, a mortgage, a teaching gig, two kids, and two comically oversized dogs—not at all in that order. Learn more about Melissa, her work, and her dogs at www.MelissaFOlson.com.

Early Book Review: The Good, the Bad, and the Vampire by Sara Humphreys

The Good, the Bad, and the Vampire is part of the Dead in the City series by Sara Humphreys. It is currently scheduled for release on January 5 2016. I have read other paranormal romance from Humphreys, but have not read this series in order or completely, and feel that the book can stand on its own.

Trixie LaRoux is a pink-haired, punk rock, vampire with serious bartending skills. Everyone in the coven think she's as tough as nails, but only her maker knows the truth; that underneath the sultry eye makeup and neon hair is a woman haunted by a past full of troubled relationships. Dakota Shelton is a vampire with deadly skills, but he is a good old Southern boy at heart. Thrown together by mutual friends in New York City, Trixie has no idea what to do with Dakota's old-fashioned chivalry. But after her tumultuous dating history, Trixie just may be ready for the one man she never expected.

The Good, the Bad, and the Vampire is more complicated than the blurb suggests. Trixie has a history of bad relationships, addiction, and rejection. She paints herself as tough and punk rock, but all of that is just to cover up her insecurities. Trixie has secrets and emotions to hide, and wants to keep them to herself. She is thankful no one but her maker knows the truth, but it is not long before Dakota sees through the act as well. Dakota has been on a secret mission hunting gargoyles since he was turned. As a recent transplant to the big city he feels off center and less than comfortable. However, Trixie intrigues him and make he feel even less centered, but somehow more focused. When their pasts make fighting their mutual attraction even harder by throwing them even closer together the real trouble begins. Deception, emotion, and family ties are at the heart of the story and keep the reader at the edge of their seat. I did expect some of the big reveals, but it was still a well told story.

The Good, the Bad, and the Vampire is an action packed and quick paced story that I enjoyed. Those that enjoy Humphrey's writing in general will enjoy this one as well.