Book Review: Wilde Bear (Blue Bear Rescue) by Terra Wolf, Holly Eastman

Wilde Bear is the first book in the Blue Bear Rescue series by Terra Wolf and Holly Eastman. Everyone is hiding something. Ever since his father died Xavier Wilde has thrown himself into his work. As the leader of the Blue Bear Search and Rescue Team, his job is simple, save lives. However, things become a lot more complicated when a cute curvy brunette from the Department of Transportation comes to help the team with a new job. Now Xavier is forced to show her his true self, in order to convince her to be his mate. Laurel doesn't let anyone tell her how to do her job. Especially not some polar bear shifter who thinks he's God's gift to Search and Rescue. But when Xavier begins to break down her walls, Laurel finds herself unable to say no. In their line of work, mistakes can cost people their lives. So how can they trust each other to keep everyone they care about safe when they're both hiding their own secrets?

Wilde Bear is a short book, I read it in a night, but the characters are still multidimensional and have plenty of baggage to deal with. I like that Xavier and Laurel each have reasons to want to stay single, and are reasoning adults that talk through the issues (for the most part) rather than allowing those issues to become even bigger conflicts. I also enjoyed that Xavier, even though an alpha in his own right, respected and supported Laurel's abilities and strength rather than trying to cushion her from any discomfort- no matter how much he might have wanted to. Since I had already read book two in the series, River Bear, I already knew some of the characters and the larger plot line that was begun in this story. Although there was one thing from the mentioned in the second book I expected to see here, but did not, so was a bit disappointed that I did not get the insight on one of the other search team members that I had hoped for. I was impressed that the book was able to do the world and character building it needed to in order to set up the rest of the series while still getting a solid romance written as well.

Wilde Bear is a quick read with more going on than one might expect. Solid characters and a good start to a series that I expect to be keeping up with. 

Book Review: River Bear (Blue Bear Rescue) by Terra Wolf

River Bear is the second book in the Blue Bear Rescue series by Terra Wolf. I have not read the first book, but feel like I did not miss too much.

Polar Bear Shifter Jake has always wanted a real family. People to love and care about him, nothing like his foster father who saw him as nothing more than a punching bag. He testified against the monster and put him away for good, or so he thought. Delilah is an orphan, she knows the struggle of being alone all too well, but when she meets Jake suddenly she has everything she ever wanted. Until someone threatens to take it all away. Jake has to defend his mate against his one true enemy. His own family. But will he be able to keep her safe, when he has to defeat his own demons as well? 

River Bear is an enjoyable, quick read. Delilah comes to the small town with the promise of investigating a case for a group of shifters, who have always fascinated her. She needs the money, and when she sees Jake she needs to work extra hard to keep her rule of no dating on the case. She is smart, determined, and self reliant- which always drives an overprotective were-bear crazy. She is fascinated by the job, and her partner while she hunts for the people behind the complaints and problems the rescue crew has been facing. Jake is worried when he sees Delilah, because of a vision a friend had of someone matching her description dying by his hands. he wants to protect her,. wants to keep her close, but also wants her at a safe distance so that the vision cannot come true- a combination that is not really possible. I like that the pair actually talk to each other, and share past traumas and issues that might effect them in the long run. While the romance wraps up a little too neatly at the end, that is not unexpected in paranormal romance involving shifters that include any mention of mates.

River Bear is a fast and fun story. I did think the final wrap up a little too neat and tidy, I still enjoyed the read and will be looking at other books from the author. 

Book Review: Benched by Abigail Graham

Benched by Abigail Graham is a contemporary romance. Mr. Right has never been so wrong. 

Phoebe is a single mom and a cop. When some arrogant superstar thinks he can speed through my town and smirk and charm his way out of a ticket, he’s wrong. She wrote the ticket and impounded his car. Alex is the football superstar in question, while he hates being stuck in the small town, it does not stop him from flirting with Phoebe every chance he gets. As if strutting around in boxers with his abs and chest on display is enough to make me forget his snide comments and wisecracks. That would make a great story, bagging the cop that gave him the ticket- but Phoebe does not have time to fool around.  The closer we get, the more she thinks she misjudged him. Somewhere beneath that arrogant smirk is a good man, maybe even the right man, but her past threatens to shatter them both.

Benched is a fun combination of bad boy makes good and bad girl gone straight. Phoebe is doing her best, she fights to be respected as the only female officer in a small town while raising her daughter on her own. Alex is a football star that is getting sick of the life but is being pushed by his management to beat the charge and keep playing despite his willingness to take the consequences of his actions. When Alex rents the house right next to Phoebe's, life gets more interesting and complicated. They each have issues to work out, and are thrown together in unexpected ways. I liked the way the love/hate relationship between Phoebe and Alex changed and grew. I like that neither are exactly what you expect as the book opens, and only become more interesting as the story progresses. I really liked Alex as a character, and the way he is a nurture under his bad boy shell really endeared himself to me. I also liked the twists that were tossed in for additional drama, but did not feel like they were actually needed. The emotional rollercoaster of real life might have been enough. The only thing that bothered me as I read was Phoebe's daughter, her actions and reactions seemed much older than the 5 to 6 year old that she is described to be. I understand that some kids are more mature than others, and that life sometimes makes children older than their years, but she just seemed to be closer to 10 than her described age.

Benched is a fast, fun read with plenty of feels and hot moments. Great read for a chilly night curled up on the couch with your hot beverage of choice.

Book Review: Gray Moon Rising by S.M. Reine (Seasons of the Moon)

Gray Moon Rising by S.M. Reine is the fourth, and final, book in the Seasons of the Moon series. Although, it is important to note that the author does continue the story of this world (and Rylie) in a other series and stand alone books. 

It’s been almost a year since Rylie Gresham was bitten by a werewolf on Gray Mountain. Now something is beckoning her back to the place she was attacked, along with every other werewolf in the world. But they aren’t the only ones heeding the call. A group of hunters notices them gathering and sees it as their chance to wipe out the entire species. Seth is about to graduate high school when he learns of the final hunt. He secretly plans to save Rylie and his werewolf brother even though he has to play along with the hunters to do it. But Rylie doesn’t want to be saved. She’s already decided to solve her problems with a silver bullet if answers aren’t waiting on Gray Mountain. One way or another, everything is about to end—whether it means Rylie’s liberation or the end of her life.

Gray Moon Rising is a needed conclusion to the story, and offers a significant about of character development for Rylie  and her closest friends. I like that she grew up and took charge, and that the action made the larger story arc move in an interesting direction. I liked that most characters, new and old, were neither all good or bad. Even some of the characters that could have initially have been pegged as an good or bad guy fell somewhere in the middle, or a good person that thinks they are doing the right thing but ignoring how it effects others. Some of the secondary characters had a good amount of personal growth as well. I think that fans of the series will need to read the book, just to finish off this story arc. Many will be disappointed with the number of new questions raised, and the lack of closure with Rylie's story. However, it did offer enough of a wrap up that I feel like I can skip some of the Cain Chronicles, which promise a significant about of world building and changes, also promises to contain a love triangle which I have no interest in following.

Gray Moon Rising is a good conclusion to this quartet, however there are still questions left unanswered. The Cain Chronicles follows it and covers more of Rylie's story, but I am unsure if I want to read it. There are so many other sub series by the author that I want to explore first.

Book Review: Loaded by Roxie Noir (A Bad Boy Novel)

Loaded by Roxie Noir is part of her Bad Boy series. Alex’s nickname is the scorpion, because he is fast and lethal. When you’re street muscle for the biggest drug cartel in North America, you’re hard or you’re dead. His boss swore kidnapping the accountant’s daughter would be quick and easy. Just find Tessa at the wedding, stuff her into a car and let someone else drive her off. The only thing more dangerous than doing his job is not doing his job. Tessa was just at a college friend’s wedding, at least until the guy that was dancing and flirting outrageously with her kidnaps her. Next thing she knows they are stuck together in a safe house, deep in the desert and she discovers that he is cocky for one really good reason.

Loaded is about survival, betrayal, and crime. Alex is a criminal with a weakness for the ladies, and that weakness rears its head when he sees, and flirts with, Tessa. Things only get more out of control as the kidnapping goes sideways and the pair end up breaking all the rules and end up not just in bed together, but falling for each other. Things only get more and more dangerous as they follow their own rules to survive and move forward. I do not want to give the plot line away, so I wont say much about the dangers and trouble they face. I will say that there is plenty of sex, dirty talk, and so much arrogance on Alex's part that some readers might not enjoy the story. However, I think most readers that have read the summary, or anything by Noir in the past, have a pretty good understanding of what they will be reading and expecting it.

Loaded is not for the faint of heart. Alex is an arrogant guy and the kidnapping and stalker like behavior that crop up could be triggers for some, and might bother some readers on the basis that controlling behavior is not just condoned but a little glorified. While Alex is well aware of his flaws, and admits to them, it does not change he attitude or behavior.

Book Review: Wolves (I Bring the Fire) by C. Gockel

Wolves by C. Gockel is the first book in the I Bring the Fire series. The series is complete, and seven books long.

In the middle of America, on Route 44, Amy Lewis has a plan, to get to her grandma’s house in time for dinner. Galaxies away Loki is waking up in a prison cell, strangely without a hangover, and with no idea what he’s done wrong this time. But he does know Thor is hiding something, Odin is up to something wicked, and there seems to be something he’s forgotten. A very nice midwestern girl and a jaded, still very mischievous, Loki must join forces to outwit gods, elves, magic sniffing cats, and nosy neighbors. If Loki can remember exactly what he’s forgotten and Amy can convince him not to be too distracted by Earthly gadgets, her boobs, or three day benders, they just might pull it off.  

Wolves is a fast paced romp through three different realms, and lots of quirky characters. I was glad to see Loki have his side of the myths surrounding him , since I also felt like there was more to his stories. Amy is pretty close to broke and struggling to stay awake and get to her grandmother's house in one piece with her ugly dog when things go wrong. Loki makes for a unexpected savior, even if he introduces himself as Thor. Loki is on his own mission, trying to find and save the only family members he has left, and trying to put together missing information that he clearly once knew. the adventures include Loki figuring out our world, and Amy coming to terms with the particulars of the man who saved her, and how that effect reality as she knows it. I really enjoyed the fresh perspective on mythology I thought I had a solid knowledge of, and the was it has encouraged me to go back and re explore them. I just wish the story had some sort of satisfying wrap up before giving me the teaser for the next volume. I really want to know what happens next, and have added the next six books in the series to me 'hope to read' list.

Wolves is a book that I found entertaining and funny but that was very reminiscent of the Marvel movies and television series that are currently very popular. Of course, I am among those that are loving them, so this is not necessarily a bad thing. My big complaint here is the non ending, and the feeling that the book ended in the middle. It would have gotten more tarts if I felt satisfied with the stories as it stands. I am promised that there is an ending in sight, but that a serious and satisfying conclusion does happen- but not until the end of book three! I will let you know when I get that far.

Book Review: Reign: A Royal Military Romance by Roxie Noir

Reign: A Royal Military Romance by Roxie Noir is something I bought on a whim, I admit to being intrigued by an Amazon on a Facebook. Thankfully, it was well worth by time. The crown prince Kostya and Hazel have nothing in common. He's a rugged, battle-hardened soldier who spent four years in the Royal Guard, an elite military unit. Hazel met the King and Queen for the first time wearing leggings and a sweatshirt. He's the serious, quiet, straight-laced heir to the throne, and she accidentally got drunk at a formal dinner.  Hazel is the ambassador's daughter and knows better than to mess around with a foreign head of state. His father is threatening to strip me of my title if he touch her, but she makes him want to break every one of his own rules. 

Reign: A Royal Military Romance is a romance that made me laugh, bite my fingernails, and fan myself a little. Hazel and Kostyra have a great chemistry and their banter is fantastic. I like that readers get a glimpse into both their minds, seeing the hardships that Kostya has faced, and the self doubt Hazel has despite her impulsive nature. This is not just a steamy romance, although it is certainly that. There are well written characters, political intrigue, and danger as well. Kostya’s country is not as tranquil as his father likes to portray, and that danger is going to land on their doorstep and everyone is going to have to make some hard choices and take some chances. I like that the characters are not perfect, but perfectly compliment each other. The give and take between Kostya and Hazel is pretty close to perfect, and the secondary characters are not just background noise, I found myself almost as interested in their long term well being as I was in our staring couple. I am impressed and am going to have to explore more books from this author. 

Book Review: Joss (Gray Wolf Security # 3) by Glenna Sinclair

Joss is the third book in the Gray Wolf Security series by Glenna Sinclair. This is the only book in the series I have read, but was able to enjoy it without having read the others. I think reading the series as a whole would give a better understanding of some of the characters, but does not directly effect the enjoyment of each book on its own. 

She doesn’t talk. How the hell am I supposed to trust the life of my child to a woman who won’t talk? I’m paying thousands of dollars to Gray Wolf Security to protect my child from potential kidnappers, and they give me this emotionally broken woman who won’t speak. Not only that, but she’s so tiny she couldn’t hurt a fly. Well, okay, so she knocked me to the ground. But I’m not a drug lord with a loaded pistol pointed at an innocent child. Just because she’s beautiful and she has these curves that I can’t seem to get out of my mind doesn’t mean that I’m okay with this situation.

Joss is a book that takes two wounded adults and tosses them together under trying circumstances. Imperfect characters facing their own issues and each others while coming together to find a happy ending makes for a fun read. Carrington is facing threats to his daughter because of his refusal to take part in illegal dealings. He is desperate to protect her, but is unsure that the willingly mute, and petite, bodyguard is the right fit for his needs. the attraction between the two makes things more complicated- of course. Joss has lost a husband and child, and protects herself through her silence- and avoiding contact with children. That is all thrown out the window when she is assigned this job. I liked that each of these main character has dealt with loss and pain and found a way to keep going. While they each have some serious issue to work through, there is also Carrington's daughter McKelty to worry about and plenty of real danger to face. The danger is real, and comes along more than once with almost consistently high levels of suspense.

Joss is a heavy action and entertaining read. There are shoot outs, running, and some struggle to deal with beyond the emotional and intellectual wounds. While not the very best contemporary romance with suspense that I have read, it was still an entertaining read for a weekend.

Book Review: Cross the Line (A Boston Love Story) by Julie Johnson

Cross the Line is the second book in the Boston Love Story series by Julie Johnson. Each story can stand up fine on its own as a contemporary romance, but together they re even better!

Phoebe West has been head-over-heels in love with her brother’s best friend for as long as she can remember. Despite several mortifying attempts at seduction and a decade’s worth of unrequited pining, nothing Phoebe does seems to make any impact on the man she’s obsessed over since her bra-stuffing days. She knows it’s time to let him go, though just the thought is nearly enough to shatter her. Nathaniel “Nate” Knox has only ever seen Phoebe as forbidden. There’s a darkness in Nate, the kind you can’t avoid after years working in special forces and private security. He’s no good for anyone — especially not someone as sweet as his best friend’s little sister. He knows he can’t have her. Not ever. Even if she makes him feel things he barely recognizes. When an unforeseeable series of events sends Phoebe stumbling headfirst into danger, there’s only one man who can protect her. Though, in his quest to save her life, he may just break her heart.

Cross the Line is a highly entertaining romance with multi-faceted characters and a level of danger and suspense that kept me at the edge of my seat. While there is less humor in this than in Not You It’s Me, which was the first in this series, there are still great characters and some moments that made me grin despite myself. Phoebe has always loved the dark and brooding Nate, who has always treated her like a bratty little sister, at least as far as she knows. They are thrown together again and the stakes are high all around. I like that they each go through their own internal struggles, and that they do have some seriously great friends to help and hinder them in turn. I really liked the give and take, and the volatile relationship between Nate and Phoebe. It is not my favorite of the three books I have read from the author, but not every book speaks to the same people the same way. I still found it to be a great read, but not as phenomenal as the others. Of course, I am still hooked on the author and as soon as I catch up on my NetGalley reading I expect to find myself buying more of her books and continuing reading her works.

Cross the Line is another entertain contemporary romance from Johnson that has kept me turning pages well past my bedtime. Complex characters, big drama, humor, and suspense come together to make the book go by just a little too quickly. 

Book Review: One Good Reason by Julie Johnson

One Good Reason by Julie Johnson is the third book in the Boston Love series. It stood well on its own, since I did not read the previous books. There was enough information about the reoccurring characters to catch me up quickly, but I liked the characters enough that I want to backtrack and read them all.

After a childhood spent begging for scraps on Boston street corners Zoe Bloom has clawed her way to a successful career and has a safe place to call home. She knows exactly what she needs to survive, friends and family are a luxury she can’t afford.  She can barely juggle her own problems; she certainly doesn’t have time to handle anyone else’s crap. Parker West has always avoided responsibility, but when a crisis forces him to return to Boston, he has no choice but to stop chasing adventures, at least for now. As soon as things are back in order, he fully intends to sail off into the sunset, at least until he crosses paths with Zoe. For the first time in his life, Parker doesn’t want to run. In fact, when it comes to Zoe… he may want to do something he’s never done before.

One Good Reason is a well paced contemporary romance with a side order of suspense. Zoe is a survivor and the only person she really trusts is the guy that has been by her side- her brother in everything but blood. She considers herself a loner and not exactly a nice person, but she has a marshmallow center that she just will not admit to. Parker is certainly a spoiled rich boy, but he loves his family and has a good heart under all the money and good looks. I found the balance between the characters, and the way they both came to own their failings (eventually) was very well done and kept me eager to see what happened next. A fun and entertaining read with some significantly steamy moments. I think the action was well paced and kept me guessing, but it was really the characters that kept me so interested.

One Good Reason is a wonderful contemporary romance with a nice dose of intrigue. I liked the characters, including the secondary characters, and felt that this was just about perfect for the genre. I greatly enjoyed the read and have already downloaded the first book in the series, because of how much I like the characters.

 

Book Review: Playing Passion's Game by Leslie Davis

Playing Passion's Game by Leslie Davis is a contemporary romance. Trent Williams’s entire world revolves around her love of gaming. She has little time for romantic distractions and prefers instead to be with her closest friends who, like her, live for the thrill that comes from a competition well played. Happy in her job, seemingly content with her life, Trent still finds herself haunted by the past that threatens to keep her alone forever. The self-imposed solitude she places on her heart only leaves her all too aware of just how lonely she is. All work and no play in her executive job forces Juliet Sullivan to search for a different direction in life. Disillusioned by it all, Juliet is desperate to seek out new horizons. When Trent unwittingly comes to the rescue of her younger sister, Juliet immediately finds herself drawn to Trent’s silent strength and undeniable charm. Now the new direction Juliet so desperately desires seems intent on leading her straight into Trent’s arms.

Playing Passion's Game is a wonderful read. As I expected from the author, both Trent and Juliet felt very real. They each had their faults, fears, and fallibilities just like the rest of us. Even though some stereotypes were touched upon, the majority of the time it was done in a way that pointed out the expectations of others, and the reality. I think readers that enjoy well written characters and realistic stories will find themselves completely caught up in the story. Honestly, the characters are people that I would love to hang out with and know in real life. The fact that the main characters are lesbians is more of a side note- the romance, characters, and struggles they face are so real that it was organic. The difference between an author that truly knows their characters and how they feel, and those that write to fill a niche market or for the love of money rather that the story is clear. Davis is obviously a writer that loves what they are writing, rather than writing to follow the money. Which will hopeful help them continue writing and find success- because I want more!

Playing Passion's Game might have a slightly corny title, but like the other books I have read from the author I quickly found myself lost in the story and caring deeply for all the characters. I adore the author, and will continue reading whatever they release. I am eagerly waiting for more! 

Book Review: Omega by S.M. Reine

Omega is the first book in the War of the Alphas series by S.M. Reine. Ten years ago, Deirdre Tombs died. When she was reborn the next day, Deirdre had become a shapeshifter who can't shift shapes. Nobody knows what animal she's supposed to be. She's definitely not a werewolf. The Alpha, Rylie Gresham, can't force her to transform like other members of her pack. Now Deirdre is considered an omega, the weakest shapeshifter in the pack, a vulnerable position. When Everton Stark publicly begins his efforts to be the new dominant Alpha, the only Alpha. Stark can make every shapeshifter obey him by force of will alone, except for Deirdre. Now she is the only chance to defeat Stark, by surviving undercover in his den. But can an omega's will be stronger than that of a charismatic, deadly Alpha like Everton Stark? 

Omega is a strong opening to a series that promises high action, plots, and subterfuge. Deirde has been treated as a throw away since the Genesis that changed so many into shifters and other paranormal creatures. She has no love for the current system, but does not like that Stark is compelling innocent shifters to kill indiscriminately.  Her ability to withstand the compulsion makes her the only hope in a fight against a violent and relentless Stark taking over. Even when his charismatic words hit the right cords, his ruthless nature leave readers and Deirde alike knowing that he is not quite right. Add in a partner from Riley's pack as a partner, and old friend that has fallen into Starks fold, and a right hand man with more violence in him than Stark and Deirde really has her work cut out for her. The danger and tension is high throughout the entire book. My only complaint is in the very end of the book. While two things that happened were fairly expected based on the build up, one shocked me and not in a happy way. I know I do not need to agree with every plot turn, and the fact that it effected me so deeply means that I was very involved in the story and characters, so the author was doing their job and doing it well. 

Omega is a solid beginning to a series that promises well developed characters and heart rending action. I am not sure what the long game will end up being for Deirde, but discovering where she going from here promises lots of action, tough choices, and high tension moments. If these sounds like a good thing, and you are not looking for a lightweight book to keep you smiling on a weekend or beach trip, then I would pick it up. I think I will need some recovery time before picking up Beta or Alpha ( the next two books in the series) but I am sure I will follow this through to the end.

Book Review: Lady of Devices by Shelley Adina

Lady of Devices is the first book in the Magnificent Devices series by Shelley Adina. This steampunk adventure is set in London, 1889. Claire Trevelyan should be a lady at the age of 17, but after graduating from finishing school her home life implodes when her father loses the estate. Determined to escape the traditional marriage her mother is determined she achieve, Claire seeks employment instead. Her attempts lead her to an unexpected place and title, but one Lord James Selwyn and the hidden world of London keep Claire on her toes.

Lady of Devices is more of a prelude to a larger story than a story in its own right. I liked the characters, I found Claire to be a smart and determined young lady and the proper members of society that she mingles with at the start to be what I expect, with very few exceptions. The children and others she meets further on certainly kept me interested, but only set the stage for the next chapter in this story. I liked the development of Claire's character, and her earning of her title 'Lady of Devices' but felt left hanging at the end of the book. It certainly left me wanting more, but not enough to pay full price for the next book when this felt like only half of a book. I liked what I read, but am feeling a little to disappointed and distrustful to pay for more at the moment. does the next book also end leaving the reader hanging, and the next?

I would recommend Lady of Devices to steampunk fans. however, if you are buying the story I would recommend going for the package set of the series rather than buying a book at a time. The story and characters are intriguing, but I am too frustrated and have too many other books waiting for my attention to keep reading at this point even if I really want to know what Lord James' deal is. 

Book Review: Adventures in Funeral Crashing By Milda Harris

Adventures in Funeral Crashing is a young adult mystery by Milda Harris. Kait Lenox has a reputation as the weird girl in her high school, mostly because of her ex-best friend turned mean popular girl, Ariel. Well, maybe it has a little to do with the fact that Kait has a hobby crashing funerals. At one funeral, Kait is outted by the most popular guy in school, Ethan Ripley. Yet, instead of humiliating her for all the world to see, he asks for her help, and Kait finds herself entangled in a murder mystery. Not only is the thrill of the mystery exciting, but more importantly Ethan knows her name! A little sleuthing is well worth that!

Adventures in Funeral Crashing is a book that I read while waiting in the car to pick up my kids, so it took me awhile to get through. However I did find the mystery and the story to stay with me, so even with long spans of time between each reading opportunity I still knew what was happening and felt engaged. The unpopular but good-hearted girl as heroine can feel a little overdone, but the funeral crashing was a new twist on that. Again, the popular but down to earth guy was a bit trite, but the mystery and details of the story made it feel much less cookie cutter than its parts might imply. I liked the characters, and found their intelligence and determination made me like them more than I might have otherwise. The twists and turns of their investigation were not completely unexpected but i did find myself a little surprised during the climax of the story. I might pick up the next book in the story just to see what happens next, but I do not think I will be hunting for it.

Adventures in Funeral Crashing is a young adult mystery with some overused concepts, but a solid mystery and characters that overcome some of those hurtles. It was not the best or outstanding, but it was a good read that left me satisfied with the conclusion and glad I had read it through. 

Book Review: Fashionably Dead by Robyn Peterman

Fashionably Dead by Robyn Peterman is the first book in the Hot Damned series. Astrid has had a less than typical life. She has an ice cold mother, and has just lost her grandmother who just happened to have raised her and just left her a tidy inheritance. As she tries to get her life together Astrid decides it is time to quit smoking, and somehow ends up as a vampyre. Now she has an obscenely profane Guardian Angel who looks like Oprah and a Fairy Fighting Coach who’s teaching me to annihilate like the Terminator. Then there is the possibly killer rogue of a vampyre that she is lusting after, who happens to want her in return, and the fact that all the other Vampyres think she is some sort of Chosen One.

Fashionably Dead is a fun and quirky book that combines romance, urban fantasy, and a whole lot of humor. Astrid teaches art at the local senior center and loves Prada a little too much for her budget. When she discovers that her attempt to quit smoking came with the side effect of not being able to breathe her life is turned upside down. Now she is adjusting to life as a vampyre, which includes having an angel that swears more than she does, and fairy trainer, a best friend that is ore than she appears, joining a vampyre house, and an abundance of people with celebrity names or appearances. It is a fast paced, and laugh filled ride that keeps you guessing. While I did see some of the big surprises coming I still enjoyed the ride. 

Fashionably Dead is a fun book for a quick read. There are tons of jokes and puns, some hot moments, and some serious action. A series that I will continue with for fun and light reading. I was annoyed with the cliff hanger ending, but the southern "bless your hearts" balanced that out for me.

Book Review: Timeless by Gail Carriger

Timeless is the fifth and final book in the Parasol Protectorate series by Gail Carriger. I listened to the audiobook, which was wonderfully narrated by Emily Gray. Alexia Tarabotti has settled into domestic bliss; including integrating werewolves into London High society, living in a vampire's second best closet, and coping with a precocious toddler who is prone to turning supernatural with a touch. Even Ivy Tunstell's acting troupe's latest play cannot put a dampener on Alexia's enjoyment of her new London lifestyle. At least until she receives a summons from Alexandria that cannot be ignored. With husband, child, and Tunstells in tow Alexia boards a steamer to cross the Mediterranean. But Egypt may hold more mysteries than even the indomitable Lady Maccon can handle. What does the vampire Queen of the Alexandria Hive really want from her? Why is the God-Breaker Plague suddenly expanding? And how has Ivy Tunstell suddenly become the most popular actress in all the British Empire?

Timeless does a wonderful job of introducing fans of series to Prudence, the infant inconvenience, while answering many of the questions and mysteries that have arisen through the series. Readers get some long awaited closure on what well happen with some of their favorite characters in the future while enjoying a fast paced and  wildly amusing ride (as always). I greatly enjoyed the madcap journey and the wonders of Egypt, as well as the action and mysteries that needed attending to. If you have enjoyed the series thus far you need to read this book. It is entertaining and draws you in without letting go until the story is done. Of course, now I need to read the short story about Alexia's father and the new series that is just starting staring Prudence. Frankly, I can't wait!

Timeless is the perfect close to a wonderful series. Carriger's writing is like chocolate covered pretzels, so good and addictive but not necessarily vitamin and nutrient rich. Although I do occasionally dream about the world and characters for a few days after finishing any of her books. Just read, or listen to the fabulous audio version, and enjoy!

Book Review: Stroke of Love by Melissa Foster

Stroke of Love is the eleventh book in the Love in Bloom series and the second book in The Remingtons subseries by Melissa Foster. You do not need to read these books as a series, they can each stand well on their own. Kate Parello runs a volunteer program in Belize for Artists for International Aid, where she deals with self-centered artists who use the program for good PR. She loves the country, the people, and what AIA stands for, but too many diva volunteers have turned her off to press-seeking celebrities altogether and left her questioning the value of the volunteer program. Laid-back artist Sage Remington escapes his wealthy lifestyle in the Big Apple for a two-week journey of self-discovery to figure out how a guy who has so much can feel so empty. When he meets ultra-organized Kate, who lives her life the way he's always dreamed of living his, the attraction is too hot to ignore, but Sage is there to figure out what’s missing in his life, not to find a woman. The pair find a closeness and attraction they cannot deny, but can they find their way to a life together?

Stroke of Love follows in the footsteps of Game of Love in offering me some really great moments and some repetitive inner dialogue and self pity that had be frustrated. Sage is a pretty perfect guy. He is strong, smart, artistic, and insanely caring about those around him. His only fault is that he gets lost in his work, but frankly I could have dealt with that especially since that work has made him independently wealthy.  Kate has grown up putting others first and volunteering in a big way. She does not like the diva notions and wants to make a big difference in the lives of others. She is intelligent and independent with a strong work ethic. Both characters are great and I enjoyed  the back and forth as Sage worked to get past her defenses. It was only after they made their initial commitment and the worrying about the future started that I started to get annoyed. I do not have much patience for the self pity and doubt, particularly when we are talking about a possible short term separation. Thankfully the tail end of the book made up for that. Again, I still found myself eager to see what happens with the next Remington sibling and am ready to keep on reading.

Stroke of Love is a great read that lost a bit of momentum and oomph towards the end, but  then redeemed itself a bit. Still not a perfect read, but I am definitely hooked! I am now a Foster fan and am making my way through the backlist of her books. I am really looking forward to the next book in the Remington arch.

Book Review: Game of Love by Melissa Foster

Game of Love is the tenth book in the Love in Bloom series and first in the Remingtons subseries by Melissa Foster. In the twenty-five years Ellie Parker been alive, Dex Remington has been the only person who has always believed in her and been there for her. But twice now she has left without saying goodbye. Dex Remington is one of the top PC game developers in the U.S. He’s handsome, smart, and so damn numb that he’s not sure he’ll ever find a reason to feel again. A chance encounter sparks intense desires in Ellie and Dex. Desires that make her want to run; and make him want to feel. A combination of lust and fear leads these young lovers down a dangerous path. Is it possible to cross a burned bridge or are they destined to be apart forever?

Game of Love was the first book in this series that I have read, and I had some mixed feelings on it. I will admit to reading the book because of the cover, I just liked the feel of the cover and then when I read the description I was hooked. I really enjoyed Dex's character, he was smart and strong willed but almost too good of a guy. I had some issues with Ellie. She had a very rough childhood, and understandably has some serious issues because of it. However, through the book she vacillates between being a flight risk and being perfectly fine. Again, this is not unusual because of her past, but I found the end a little too easy because of it. Dex was almost too perfect and definitely too willing to do literally everything and anything to keep Ellie with him. Moments of the book were wonderful, but others had me annoyed. As a whole I enjoyed it, and bought a few more books in the series immediately.

Game of Love was a solid contemporary romance and dealt with characters with significant issues. There were inner dialogue moments that got a little repetitive and the book was not perfect, but I still ended up hooked on the series and will be reading much more from Foster in the near future.

Book Review: Grave Witch (Alex Craft) by Kalayna Price

Grave Witch is the first book in the Alex Craft series by Kalayna Price. I listened to the audiobook, which was read by Emily Durante. Not even death can save her now. As a grave witch, Alex Craft is a grave witch, meaning that she can raise shades and speak to the dead. Unlike most, she can even talk to, and is on good terms with, Death himself. She's seen a lot of dark magic, but nothing has prepared her for her latest case. When she's raising a "shade" involved in a high-profile murder, it attacks her, and then someone makes an attempt on her life. Someone really doesn't want her to know what the dead have to say, and she'll have to work with mysterious homicide detective Falin Andrews to figure out why.

Grave Witch was a good beginning to a series, that has me interested in getting my hands on the next book. Alex has the perfect combination of power and vulnerability. She is estranged from her family, but when her sister pleas for her help, Alex cannot refuse, and that help leads her down the rabbit hole to deal with some serious dark magic, the fae, attempts on her life, ghosts, and an attempt at romance. At the end Alex is left with a couple solved cases, and more questions about herself and her love life than before. The trip was entertaining, and I liked the world and the cast of characters. I was ever eager to get plugged back into my iPod to hear more of the story. I will admit that on occasion the narrator sounded a bit mechanical, like Siri, but she regularly redeemed herself with some great voice work when switching between character's thoughts or speech.

I would recommend Grave Witch to readers that enjoy urban fantasy, particularly when witches or the fae are involved. The characters and world felt very well developed and the story answered enough questions to leave me satisfied at the end, while still having enough open possibilities to make me curious about what will happen next. A perfect combination for a series starter.

Book Review: Dead Radiance by T.G. Ayer

Dead Radiance is the first book in the Valkyrie series by T.G. Ayer . This young adult novel is about foster child Bryn Halbrook. She had always seen a glow around certain people, but she did not know what it meant until a girl from school and then her best friend dies that she discovers the meaning of those beautiful golden auras. The glow is the sign of coming death. She struggles to understand who she is and why she was cursed with the ability to see the soon-to-be-dead. The new foster kid, Aidan, seems to fit in no matter what, making her feel even more pathetic. But when his affections turn to her, Bryn finds him hard to resist. Soon Aidan disappears, leaving behind a broken heart and a mysterious book that suggests Bryn might not be entirely human. Bryn is on the threshold of a great adventure and discovery. 

In Dead Radiance we meet Bryn, a loner that has learned from experience that it is better to keep to herself, since she rarely stays anywhere long. Lost in the foster care system she trusts almost no one and cares for very few- but those she does care about are extremely important to her. She is strong, smart, and able to take care of herself. It is only when Aidan joins the foster home that Bryn’s defense crack, only to feel betrayed. Secrets about her conception and Aidan’s work lead Bryn to understand that she is not quite human, and a startling night show her just how right she is. As a valkyrie Bryn discovers that some of her lessons in foster care hold true in Asgard too- and it is up to her to save the people that are most important to her.

Dead Radiance is an interesting romp, and I enjoyed the use of mythology and science intertwined rather than at war. The story was very well written, with a great concept and solid characters. The fights were exciting and occasionally epic. I enjoyed the story, there were just a couple moment when I felt it was a bit too long, but the adventure and action moments typically came and fixed that in short order.