Book Review: Serafina and the Twisted Staff (Serafina, #2) by Robert Beatty

Serafina and the Twisted Staff is the second book in the Serafina series for middle grade and older readers by Robert Beatty. It begins a few weeks after Serafina and the Black Cloak ends. I do suggest reading the books in order, otherwise the relationships and natures of the returning characters will be hard to fully understand and it will take some time to catch up. 

n 1899, when an evil threatens all the humans and animals of the Blue Ridge Mountains, twelve-year-old Serafina, rat catcher for the Biltmore estate and the daughter of a shapeshifting mountain lion, must search deep inside herself and embrace the destiny that awaits her. She not only needs to protect the forest and discover what the danger is, but the darkness is inside the Biltmore as well.

Serafina and the Twisted Staff is an amazing sequel. The action follow close of the heels of the first book, so I do recommend reading the books in order (no hardship because the first book is wonderful) to fully understand Serafina, her childhood, and the struggles she faces in this book as she searches for her place in the world. She is not fully human, and does not quite fit in with the guests of Biltmore. However, she is not fully animal and is lacking certain skills and abilities that would aid her in surviving in the wild. She is struggling with who and what she is, and what she wants for her future. The danger she faces tests her on all fronts and she needs to come to terms with her past, present, and future. The mystery of who exactly the detective discovering a related murder is, the hooded figure that arrived as the animals fled, and animals acting in unnatural ways all come together in an unexpected way. While I did expect one of the twists, it was discovered in a fresh way that made the reveal and danger that much more intense.

Serafina and the Twisted Staff is a wonderful book, and unlike more follow ups, surpasses the first book. Serafina grows in character and understanding, while the reader grows right along side her. I highly recommend this series to middle grade readers and older, including adults! Readers that enjoyed the first book will need to read this, and those that have not should get started now. We will let you to catch up. I can only hope for more to come.

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.

Early Book Review: Frightlopedia: An Encyclopedia of Everything Scary, Creepy, and Spine-Chilling, from Arachnids to Zombies by Julie Winterborn

Frightlopedia: An Encyclopedia of Everything Scary, Creepy, and Spine-Chilling, from Arachnids to Zombies by Julie Winterborn is scheduled for release on August 23 2016. It combines fact, fiction, and hands-on activities together to scare and entertain readers  with some of the world’s most frightening places, scariest stories, and gruesomest creatures, both real and imagined. Discover Borneo’s Gomantong Cave, where literally millions of bats, cockroaches, spiders, and rats coexist in pitch darkness. Learn about mythical creatures like the Mongolian Death Worm—and scarily real ones like killer bees, which were accidentally created by scientists in the 1950s. Visit New Orleans’s Beauregard-Keyes house, where Civil War soldiers are said to still clash in the front hall. Plus ghost stories from around the world, a cross-cultural study of vampires, and how to transform into a zombie with makeup. Each entry includes a “Fright Meter” measurement from 1 to 3, because while being scared is fun, everyone has their limit.

Frightlopedia is a fun and sometimes frightening read that will appeal too many readers. I like that the book is well organized, so readers looking for information on a certain type of monster or scary story can find the wanted information quickly. I think the scare-o-meter is a great aspect as well, since it forwards readers just how scary some of the stories might be for them. The variety of urban legends, well known stories and monsters, and those less known is nice. The inclusion of real creatures that some find scary, like spiders that eat birds and other sizable critters, rounded out the collection well. I even learned a few new bits of certain legends that I had not heard of before. I think readers that love all things masters or creepy will enjoy this book for multiple reads.

Frightlopedia is a great read for those that like scary stories and monsters, and not just to be scared. I liked the fright-o-meter so the least and most stalwart of readers can still enjoy the book and skip over bits that might not be conducive to bedtime. 

Book Review: Unhidden by Dina M. Given

Unhidden by Dina M. Given is an urban fantasy and starts off The Gatekeeper series. It’s not always easy to tell the good guys from the bad guys, especially when your heroine is a trained killer and she may be falling in love with her evil hunter. Emma Hayes, a former military Special Forces Operative turned mercenary-for-hire, finds her tightly controlled world turned upside down when she is attacked by horrible monsters. Emma must use every skill in her arsenal to stay alive as she tries to solve the mystery of why she has been targeted. Her list of enemies keeps growing and she doesn't know if there is anyone left she can trust. Emma is left haunted by questions, doubts and fears as to why she has been targeted, when they will come for her next, and how she will possibly be able to survive against an enemy she doesn't understand.

Unhidden is a book that is high interest and drama, with a lot of ground to cover to set up the ways and wherefores of character actions and relationships. I liked Emma from the start, she is a tough cookie with an uncertain past, and an even more uncertain future it seems. She remembers nothing before waking up in a military hospital over ten years ago, and those missing memories are now key as monsters and people from her past seem to be lurking in every corner. Her current friendships are already strained, and everything is only getting harder. She is adrift but making the best and most strategic choices she can with the information she has. Getting to know the secondary characters and complexity of how everything fits together is well executed, but at some point the exciting battle and action scenes toward the end had me skimming a little to see what was going on with particular characters rather than investing fully in the details about the creatures, their fighting, and the general carnage involved. It was all important, but I just think I reach fatigue levels and my interest faltered. I do not think it is the fault of the author or the style- I think it was my personal issue. The story did offer up a conclusion with enough closure to be fairly satisfying but with enough unanswered questions to encourage further reading. 

Unhidden started off well, but after awhile I just wanted the battles and conflict to stop long enough for me too see where all the characters were and what was going on with them, rather than the complex power struggle. There is nothing I can point to that was lacking, I just am more interested in what is going on in the character's heads rather than who is wielding what weapon and how. A satisfying read and good starting point for a series, I just got impatient toward the end.

Early Book Review: Ogres Awake! by James Sturm, Alexis Frederick-Frost, Andrew Arnold

Ogres Awake! by James Sturm, Alexis Frederick-Frost, and Andrew Arnold is a children's graphic novel currently scheduled for release on July 12 2016. while this is a return to the world of the Knight and her horse Edward, young readers do not need to read this series in any order. They are all good fun as stand alones or together.

The knight and her horse, Edward, have discovered that there are three huge ogres asleep at her doorstep! When they wake up, the kingdom is in big trouble because of course ogres like to rampage and destroy things when they wake up! The knight wants to prepare for a fight, but the king and his garden gnomes are all ready to protect the kingdom, not with swords and shields, but with potato peelers and spoons. It turns out that ogres are pretty friendly when they have full stomachs!

Ogres Awake! is another delightful read from the Adventures in Cartooning series. I love the enthusiasm of the Knight, the pragmatic calm of Edward, and the twists that keep things interesting. I like that stew, rather than warfare, was the answer. The idea of being smart and thoughtful being more important that being a great warrior is a repeating theme that seems to tie all these books together, and is one that I can get behind.

Ogres Awake! is another win for young readers.

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: Bite The Dust (Blood And Moonlight) by Cynthia Eden

Bite The Dust is the first book in the new Blood And Moonlight series by Cynthia Eden. When New Orleans Detective Jane Hart investigates her first official homicide case, she never expects to have her world ripped apart. The murder she’s investigating is part of a deadly war between vampires and werewolves, and now Jane is caught in the middle of the eternal battle, one that cannot end well. Werewolf Aidan Locke has been running New Orleans for years. It’s his job to keep the vamps out of the city. But when a Master Vampire comes to town Aidan knows it’s time to fight with all the fury of his pack. Beast versus vamp, until the last breath. Aidan knows that Jane is far more than she seems. Far more than she even knows herself to be. She’s important in the paranormal war, not a pawn to be used, but a queen to be won. And if he can’t keep her at his side, if he can’t stop the darkness from descending on the town, then Jane Hart will become not just a fierce cop, not some guardian, but something deadlier. Darker. Aidan will fight heaven and hell to change her fate. To change their fate because he is more than just a predator. 

Bite The Dust has a solid start and some unique takes on the now more common aspects of the werewolf and vampire lore. I liked Jane's character, and generally liked Aidan, even though the pair occasionally frustrated me with stubbornness or assumptions that they would be obeyed. I liked the level of action and suspense, even though some of the twist I caught on to fairly quickly, and suspected some of the rest. I think this is the start of a very interesting series, and I think it is set to hold its own in the talent rich genre or urban fantasy. Strong characters, rich plot with plenty of action and twists, as well as a solid world in which the story can bring the readers in a number of different directions.

My only problem with the whole book is that it seemed very familiar. Not in a plagiarism way, or even in a I have seen these situations used too many times kind of way. It was more like when you read too many books of the same author or series in a row, but I cannot remember having read any other books by this author- at least I have none listed in my Goodreads book list. I still cannot place what was familiar, perhaps Eden's voice is just similar to another author's. I just do not know, and that is not necessarily as bad thing.

Bite The Dust is a solid urban fantasy. While there was a familiar feel to parts of the story, it did not feel like it was covering old ground, rather more like making a new friend that offers conversations on favorite topics. 

Book Review: The Caretaker's Guide to Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

The Caretaker's Guide to Fablehaven by Brandon Mull is a companion book to the popular series. It is illustration by Brandon Dorman. Fans of Fablehaven know every one of the dragons and mythical creatures in the series has a name and a special power and in the text they’re described as all looking very different. But they’ve existed only in our imagination, until now. This book is the first visual discovery of ALL the creatures in the series and is written as if you, the reader, is the new caretaker of the Fablehaven preserve. It has all sorts of insider’s knowledge like "dragon tears" are very powerful for making potions but they are extremely difficult to come by and cruel people have been known to capture a young dragon and murder his family just to collect tears! Entries detail important information about artifacts large and small, a complete bestiary of creatures (from fairies to trolls to satyrs), a guide to identifying demons, dragons, and wizards as well as valuable insights into the other magical preserves.

The Caretaker's Guide to Fablehaven is full of fun and interesting information about the creature of Fablehaven. The illustration from Dorman are beyond wonderful, and add more details about the creatures while captivating the readers even more. the Notes from Seth and Kendra are well done, and look like they are taped into the book. The descriptions of the people, creatures, things, and places from the series are extremely well done. I have been inspired to go back and reread the series with all of this information at my disposal, how and when I will have the time to do this I do not know- but it is on my list! if you have not read the series, you can still greatly enjoy this volume, although fans of the series will definitely get more from the read. Anyone4 that enjoys mystical creatures, adventures, and beautiful illustrations will greatly enjoy this read.

The Caretaker's Guide to Fablehaven is a delightful read for fans of the series, and those that think taking care of mystical creatures might be a good job. The details and writing style will have readers entertained and engaged right from beginning to end. 

Early Book Review: Camp Midnight by Steven T. Seagle

Camp Midnight by Steven T. Seagle is a middle grade graphic novel that is currently scheduled for release on May 3 2016.Reluctant Skye is accidentally sent to the wrong summer camp. Not wanting to please her step monster, Skye is dead-set on not fitting in. That won't be a problem, as everyone at Camp Midnight-with the exception of fellow camper and fast-friend Mia-is a full-fledged monster!

Camp Midnight is a tough call for me. I really liked the story, and thought it had great potential. However, I really could not continuously like the main character. I am a snarky minded person myself, and while Skye is going through a rough time and deserves some attitude leeway, I found her to be a bit bratty and a bit too bitter most of the time. Of course, as I reach the big turn around in the story the reason for this was clear, but until that point it really bugged me. The message the attitude, and her moments with a couple new friends that helped it shift, is one that tweens, teens, and adults alike could use (or be reminded of). Being yourself and letting go enough to let people in and enjoy yourself can be scary but is necessary for growth and finding real friends and happiness. 

Likewise, the artwork varied with me. At times I thought the artwork did a great job of subtly layering real monsters with those in Skyes' imagination- but other times it just did not click for me. I guessed her friend Mia’s ‘type’ pretty quickly, but I liked the brief moment in the story where I thought I was wrong. It was a entertaining read, and when I finished it I discovered that I liked it more that I expected when I was half way through, but less that I had hoped at the beginning. 

Camp Midnight is an entertaining graphic novel for the middle grade set. I enjoyed it, despite the couple issues I had with it, but thought it could have been even better.

Book Review: Gorilla Tactics (Dr. Critchlore's School for Minions #2) by Sheila Grau, Joe Sutphin

Gorilla Tactics is the second book in the Dr. Critchlore's School for Minions series written by Sheila Grau and illustrated by Joe Sutphin. This middle grade novel is just as good as the first, and I highly recommend reading the series in order, as the character development and relationships are important. However, if you feel the need to jump in now, I think there is enough hints to the backstory that you will still be able to enjoy this story.

Runt Higgins needs answers, fast. Someone cursed him to die on his sixteenth birthday, but no one seems to know who cursed him or why. Runt decides he must find the Great Library, where all true knowledge is hidden. Unfortunately, the only people who know the location of the Great Library are a covert network of librarian-spies who’d rather die than give up the Library’s secrets. And when one of Runt’s professors is attacked, it soon becomes clear that others are also out to find the Library at any cost. Meanwhile, Runt’s not the only one whose days are numbered. To save the floundering school from an inevitable sale, Dr. Critchlore takes some desperate measures. His master plan to save the school: a fashion show.

Gorilla Tactics is much more than the official summary gives it credit for. There are schemes and subterfuge at every turn, at multiple levels. Scheming teachers and administrators, bullies, teachers with an axe to grind, covert librarians, sirens and fashion shows, and so much more. I liked that Runt and his friends face the usual school issues; like bullies, popularity worries, and trying to pass important classes while still having to face bigger issues like the possibility of a school take over, death, and the most evil guy they can think of gaining access to the most complete library in the universe. Runt and his classmates all have some significant character growth, even the secondary characters like Rufus and Janet. I feel like even the most insignificant role in the larger story might come to be very important as the series continues on. There are problem solving, risk taking, and friendship struggles through out the story- and the action seems non stop. Even when Runt is contemplating his next move or how he is going to get through the current or next crisis the tension level is pretty high. I think that the combination of illustrations and high energy story telling will keep middle grade readers turning pages in this series. I liked that the book wrapped up the story nicely, while opening new questions to make us eager for the next book. It was a satisfying ending, with just a hint of "and then what".

Gorilla Tactics is a wonderful follow up to Dr. Critchlore's School for Minions, and I will be following this series as it continues. I am eager to see how Runt, and the rest progress through school, and beyond. I have many questions I want answered, and cannot wait to see how Grau answers them.

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: Lumiere by Jacqueline E. Garlick

Lumiere is the first book in the young adult The Illumination Paradox series by Jacqueline E. Garlick. Seventeen-year-old Eyelet Elsworth has only one hope left: finding her late father’s most prized invention, the Illuminator. It’s been missing since the day of the mysterious flash—a day that saw the sun wiped out forever over England. But living in darkness is nothing new to Eyelet. She’s hidden her secret affliction all of her life—a life that would be in danger if superstitious townspeople ever guessed the truth. And after her mother is accused and executed for a crime that she didn’t commit, the now-orphaned Eyelet has no choice but to track down the machine that was created with the sole purpose of being her cure. Alone and on the run, she finally discovers the Illuminator—only to see a young man hauling it off. Determined to follow the thief and recover the machine, she ventures into the deepest, darkest, most dangerous part of her twisted world. That is when her real adventure begins. 

Lumiere has a great premise and interesting start. It follows the search for a machine created for curing and helping people twisted and corrupted for the use to kill and gain power. However, it is more about the people searching for the machine than the machine itself. Eyelet is on a razors edge, she has lost her mother and father, and is in danger of losing her hope, and her own life. She meets others with their own secrets and troubles. Urlick has big secrets of his own, and spends most of his time either tinkering or protecting those he has in his care. I liked that underdogs group together, not necessarily on purpose, in order to be safe and fulfill their goals even when they think they are at cross purposes.

Since this is the first book in a series, there is a good amount of character and world building. It was done at a good pace for the most part, but I will admit to having stalled out on my enthusiasm about two thirds of the way through the book. I liked the characters, liked the premise and steam punk feel, but feel like a few of the crises towards the end dragged the book out rather than adding to the drama. There were certainly a few unexpected twists, and I was happy with the shifts and changes to my understanding of the characters and world as they came. However, the ending left me a little unsatisfied as it left readers on the edge wondering if our main characters would find each other again and what happened to some of the secondary characters.

Lumiere is a good start to a series, although I think it lost a little steam in trying to cover too much ground and do too much. The characters, danger, and puzzles were all good. However, I feel like the sheer volume of them got to be a little overwhelming. 

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.

Early Book Review: Never Insult a Killer Zucchini by Elana Azose, Brandon Amancio, David Clark

Never Insult a Killer Zucchini is a new ABC picturebook written by Elana Azose and Brandon Amancio. It was illustrated by David Clark (and is currently scheduled for release on February 9 2016.  When Mr. Farnsworth, the science-fair judge, declares that he loves zucchinis, the Killer Zucchini is smitten. As the judge makes his way through the exhibits alphabetically; A (antimatter), B (bionic limb), C (cloning), and so on the Killer Zucchini tries to show his affection. But when Mr. F gets to K and admits he likes to eat zucchini with ranch dressing, the Killer Zucchini gets steamed and attempts to exact his revenge on the snack-loving judge using the other science-fair projects as his means to an end.  Hilarious havoc ensues as the entire science fair is destroyed by his wrath.

Never Insult a Killer Zucchini is a fun and unique alphabet book. i love books that take fresh approaches to concepts that have been heavily covered. In this ABC book we get the alphabet through the lens of a science fair. Some of the projects seem really out there, and the illustrations are fun and highly entertaining. I think science and silly joke lovers will get a kick out of this book. To ramp things up, and make the book even better, there is information on the real science behind the projects in the fair to interest the more fact minded readers and their caretakers. I think both my kids, even though well past the typical ABC book audience, would get a kick out of the book and included information.

Never Insult a Killer Zucchini is a great new look at the alphabet. The silliness and real science information make this a great addition to library, personal, and school collections.

Early Book Review: The Extincts by Veronica Cossanteli

The Extincts by Veronica Cossanteli is a middle grade novel which is currently scheduled for release on February 9 2016. Although, with a little research I have found that it was previously published by Chicken House back in 2013.

George is looking for a job in order to raise money for a new bike, so when he sees a help wanted ad for Wormestall Farm, he goes for it. Before long, he's embroiled in a madcap adventure involving creatures considered extinct and or mythological. He has gained a almost-friend with problems of her own and her stepmother, who just happens to be a maniacal taxidermist who wants the animals of Wormestall Farm in her own private collection.

The Extincts is fast paced and fun. George is a character with an odd and imperfect home life, but one that allows him freedom and the knowledge that he is loved. Prudence's family is much less healthy. I liked the characters that inhabit Wormestall Farm, as well as those that tend to the creatures. The combination of oddities and actual learning about extinct and mythological animals is entertaining and interesting. I think the book has a nice balance of action with character development and world building. Some books fall too heavy in one area or another, but this seemed to have a nearly perfect balance. The big bad, Prudence's stepmother, is over the top crazy while the good guys are just wacky and friendly enough to find the right solutions, sometimes by accident. the addition of information about the creatures included at the end of the book is an extra special treat.  I would highly recommend this read to middle graders that like animals, monsters, great characters, or high action. The illustrations will even grab the attention of some of the more reluctant readers. I hope that there are more books to come, since more could be done with the characters and the collected creatures.

The Extincts is a exciting and entertaining read for the middle grade set. George and Prudence are creative characters that will draw in readers and have them looking for more. Animal and monster lovers alike will get a great deal of enjoyment from this adventure. 

Book Review: Serafina and the Black Cloak by Robert Beatty

Serafina and the Black Cloak by Robert Beatty is a middle grade novel with a Gothic or horror feel to it. Serafina has never had a reason to disobey her pa and venture beyond the grounds of the Biltmore estate.There's plenty to explore in her grand home, although she must take care to never be seen. None of the rich folk upstairs know that Serafina exists; she and her pa, the estate's maintenance man, have secretly lived in the basement for as long as Serafina can remember. But when children at the estate start disappearing, only Serafina knows who the culprit is; a terrifying man in a black cloak who stalks Biltmore's corridors at night. Following her own harrowing escape, Serafina risks everything by joining forces with Braeden Vanderbilt, the young nephew of the Biltmore's owners. Braeden and Serafina must uncover the Man in the Black Cloak's true identity before all of the children vanish one by one. Serafina's hunt leads her into the very forest that she has been taught to fear. There she discovers a forgotten legacy of magic, one that is bound to her own identity. In order to save the children of Biltmore, Serafina must seek the answers that will unlock the puzzle of her past.

Serafina and the Black Cloak is a story with mystery, adventure, and a little magic. Serafina does not know much about anything outside her daily life of hiding in the shadow and hunting the rats that try to call Biltmore their home. She knows nothing about her mother, or why she and her father secretly live in the basement. When she sees the man in the black cloak take a girl she begins searching for answers, not just about what happen to the girl but also about herself. Serafina and Braeden are characters that see themselves as ‘other’ and some of their friendship finds root in that, but they are both interesting characters on their own. I found myself deeply invested in both children’s lives, and interested in their history. I enjoyed the unfolding of Serafina’s history, though not all of it surprised me. I was disappointed that we did not get more about Braeden and some of the side characters did not get a solid resolution as far as I was concerned. I was enthralled with the read, and enjoyed it. The lack of small bits of resolution just left me hoping that Beatty would revisit the Biltmore, since this story concluded but left plenty of room for more adventure.

Serafina and the Black Cloak is an engaging middle grade read with a good balance of mystical and coming of age themes. I think this will be a popular read for many.

Early Book Review: Dead Boy by Laurel Gale

Dead Boy by Laurel Gale is a middle grade novel that is currently scheduled for release on September 29 2015. Crow Darlingson died in the 4th grade, but he’s still alive and growing. He can’t eat or taste anything, his body parts sometimes fall off (mom always sews them back on, though), and he’s only allowed to leave his house once per year, on Halloween. His parents are now separated, and he blames himself, and is chafing at being confined. Sneaking out at night only makes things worse, but he can’t resist the chance at a real friendship with Melody Plympton, the new girl next door, who loves mystery more than she minds the side effects of Crow being dead. Together they investigate the mysterious Meera, a monster living in the nearby park. Logic and fear tell Crow to stay away, but fuzzy memories lure him on. When Crow and Melody venture into its underground lair, Crow’s not just risking the half-life he clings to. He’s also risking the only friend he’s had in years. The importance of friendship is crystallized as Crow and Melody face tests of loyalty, courage, and honor.

Dead Boy is a dark but still fun book about a boy that is slightly dead, but still wants to live his life. He has an overprotective mother that refuses to talk about any uncomfortable topic, and a father that loves him but lives a few hours away.  After he died and came back crow has had no real life outside his home; no friends, and no outside time to speak of. when a new girl moves in next door, and just happens to be fascinated with magic and monsters, the pair become fast friends. Then things go wrong, as they often do, and friendships seem to be crumbling. Encountering the Meera during a disastrous Halloween lead Crow and Melody on a quest of tests that will put their bravery, loyalty, and more to the test. However, just when everyone things things are settled, they will discover that there is more to do in order to reach their happy ending. Everyone discovers some truth about themselves, their faults, and the importance of being honorable. 

Dead Boy is a macabre story with much more to it than it seems. There is plenty of dark humor, high action, and adventure. However there are also lessons about friendship and being a honorable, good person that are woven through the story. this is a read that will appeal to many readers, for many different reasons. I think anyone that picks it up and reads will be happy with that decision. 

Early Book Review: Gargoyle Hall: An Araminta Spookie Adventure by Angie Sage

Gargoyle Hall: An Araminta Spookie Adventure by Angie Sage is a children's chapter book that is currently scheduled for release on August 11 2015. Araminta Spookie is a unique girl with a very special family. Uncle Drac keeps bats and goes of on expeditions to bring them home. There are three ghosts in the house, one that just happens to be a dog, and a best friend and her family that lives in the same house.when a great aunt comes to visit it is decided that Araminta has been "helpful" one too many times, so her family decides to send her to boarding school. On arrival, Araminta is surprised to discover that her best friend has stowed away in her trunk and that Gargoyle Hall makes her haunted home seem positively cozy. Strange moans and clanks echo down the halls and the two class leaders are equally creepy. Most of the other students have been scared away, but Araminta is determined to find out what-or who-is menacing the school.

Gargoyle Hall is the sixth book in this series, so I did feel a little like I was coming in late since I have not read any of the others, but I caught up to the spirit of the series fairly quickly. The writing is accessible to reluctant readers and avid readers alike and has a good mix of humor and spookiness to keep everyone entertained. Araminta is a strong willed, and slightly odd, young lady with good intentions. She is always trying to be helpful, but the majority of the time her 'help' causes more difficulty and chaos than expected. The adventures of Araminta, who reminds me of a kind hearted Wednesday Addams, are illustrated by Jimmy Pickering with black and white artwork. The pictures add a great deal of atmosphere and emotion to the story, helping younger readers identify with the characters even more. I found the adventure and the writing to be great from readers that need high action books to hold their interest and for those that love a touch of the spooky. 

Gargoyle Hall is a great chapterbook for adventure and series fans. I think my two children, who often feel intimidated by chapter books and love anything remotely spooky will be hooked on this series in short order. I am bringing home the first book of this series, My Haunted House, as soon as possible for their perusal. 

Early Book Review: Gryphons Aren’t So Great by James Sturm, Alexis Frederick-Frost, and Andrew Arnold

Gryphons Aren’t So Great is a children's graphic novel by James Sturm, Alexis Frederick-Frost, and Andrew Arnold. It is currently scheduled for release on September 8 2015. The Knight's best friend is her horse, Edward. They go everywhere together and do everything together! But when the Knight gets a gryphon, suddenly all she talks about is how awesome her new pet is. Edward can't help it, he's jealous! When the gryphon turns out to be more of a peril than a pet, and Edward comes to the rescue.

Gryphons Aren’t So Great is a cute graphic novel for the easy reader and youngest independent readers. Knight is described as a girl in the summary, but honestly there is no gender definition in the story, the Knight is just a brave kid in armor. Every reader can imagine themselves in her place. the horse, Edward is a brave partner to the knight, but feels left behind and unimportant when the gryphon and knight spend more and more time together. I think most readers (young and old) can relate to the feeling, and seeing their own experience in print will help them understand that everyone has had that experience.  It can also help them get a better grasp on their feelings and how to manager them. Beyond all that, the artwork and story are simply good, sweet fun and worth exploring.

Gryphons Aren’t So Great is the second of four adorable picture books from the creators of Adventures in Cartooning. It is a sweet and accessible story that even the youngest readers can relate to and enjoy.