Book Review: Alistair Grim's Odd Aquaticum by Gregory Funaro

Alistair Grim's Odd Aquaticum by Gregory Funari is the second book in the Odditorium series. The first book was Alistair Grim’s Odditorium. I highly recommend reading these books in order. While they each are complete stories in themselves, knowing the relationships and background is very important to fully enjoying the story.

When Grubb, an orphan and runaway chimney sweep, entered the wondrous world of the Odditorium, his life changed forever. Apprenticed to the mechanical marvel's strange proprietor, Alistair Grim, Grubb unfortunately must settle into his new position on the lam, as the whole of London is convinced that Alistair Grim is a villain bent on mass destruction. Grim, however, has come up with a plan to expose the real villain: Prince Nightshade, a wicked necromancer who wants the Odditorium's power source for himself. With the evil prince hot in their trail, Grim, Grubb and the rest of the Odditorium's crew embark on a perilous adventure to find the legendary sword Excalibur: the only weapon capable of penetrating Nightshade's magical suit of armor. As expected, their quest turns out to be anything but ordinary. Not only can the Odditorium fly, but it can also swim! And so the crew battens down the hatches and sets off on an underwater voyage to the otherworldly realm of Avalon, home to Excalibur. Along the way, they must battle a banshee assassin, sea monsters, and a witch who seeks revenge on Alistair Grim for stealing her magical objects.

Alistair Grim's Odd Aquaticum is a satisfying sequel. I did not find it quite as enthralling as the first book, but there is plenty of character development and action once the book gets going. I liked that there were new characters added to the fray, as well as our favorites from the first installment. There are some unexpected twists and turns, I was actually surprised with one of the major twists and thought the additional characters really added to the depth of the mysteries in the book, as well as the characters. To make the book even more interesting to me there is a trip to Avalon and some significant play with Arthurian legends, which are my favorite. I liked the fresh look at some of my favorite legends, and how much Grubb, Alistair, and the rest all grow as individuals and how the group changes and becomes strong through the challenges they face. I look forward to seeing where the Odditorium takes us all next!

Alistair Grim's Odd Aquaticum is a little bit slower than the first book to get the the action, but if poured and enjoyed the first book I recommend following it up with this book. However, keep in mind that there are more to come! Sop while this book does have a satisfying conclusion, like the first book did, there are still many questions and problems left to be solved in future books.

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: Viking Warrior Rising by Asa Maria Bradley

Viking Warrior Rising by Asa Maria Bradley is the first book in the Viking Warriors series. Leif Skarsganger and his elite band of immortal warriors have been charged to protect humanity from the evil Norse god Loki. Under attack from Loki's minions, Leif is shocked to encounter a dark-haired beauty who fights like a warrior herself. Wounded and feverish, the Viking kisses her, inadvertently triggering an ancient Norse bond. But when Naya Brisbane breaks away and disappears before the bond is completed, Leif's warrior spirit goes berserk. If Leif doesn't find her fast, he's going to lose himself to permanent battle fury. But Naya doesn't want to be found, and he'll do anything to find her because they're both running out of time.

Viking Warrior Rising is a solid urban fantasy that will greatly appeal to fans of mythology. I will admit that it took me a while to get up to speed with the world created in this book, and I worried that I might have missed a prequel or something. However, there is no previous book and I got a grasp of the world and characters fairly quickly. I found that there were plenty of outside conflicts, Loki’s minions and scientists for the most part, but the majority of relationship conflicts seemed to steam from lack of trust and communication. I can total get the trust issues on Naya’s part. The secret keeping is fairly expected and in keeping with the characters. However, as with many romance novels, so much of the trouble came from a lack of discussion of feelings and the particulars of the situation. I liked both the main characters and the bevy of secondary characters that were introduced, and the high action and the turns that action took. I was just annoyed with the stubbornness and lack of “using their words”. However, I still founds it too be an entertaining and interesting read.

Viking Warrior Rising was a fast, fun ride. There was plenty of set up and build building mixed in with the action, but I really enjoyed the character introductions and set up developed on that front. The sequel, Viking Warrior Rebel, is scheduled for release later this year, and I am looking forward to following up with Astrid to see where the story takes us. 

Early Book Review: Henchgirl by Rita Stradling

Henchgirl is the first book in the new Dakota Keko series by Rita Straddling. It is currently scheduled for release on January 12 2016. In this new series the children of dragons and humans, the dracons, control eighty percent of the world’s governments. Humans worldwide are either subservient or prey. 

Sixteen year old Dakota Kekoa lives a double life. By day, she pretends to be a human to infiltrate Mabi Academy, a 'human's only' high-school. At night, she works as a henchman for her draconic mafia family, utilizing her ability to steal and manipulate emotions. When Dakota’s human friend is kidnapped, she takes on the mission to find her. This is not just any mission though; she is diving head first into the escalating conflict between humans and dragons just as a full blooded dragon and his family come for a visit. As more girls disappear and some are discovered dead, Dakota realizes her first honorable mission may also be her last.  

Henchgirl is a nice coming of age story for young and new adults. Dakota has been doing the dirty work for her grandfather for years by the time she is sixteen. One night everything starts to go more than a little sideways. A chance encounter at a job almost gone bad causes more problems than Dakota might expect. Mainly because a dragon and his family are in town, and she wants to escape notice as much as possible. Family and dragon politic make everything worse. When a friend goes missing everything escalates and Dakota become even more embroiled in a dangerous case, the unsettling waters of the heritage she is less than knowledgeable, and the possibility of a love triangle. Emotion and danger run high as Dakota tries to retain her sense of self, and her own identity as more than just a pawn to the dragons. I liked the main players and the plot twitters (which means I am not giving you much more now). I found myself holding my breath a few times, and cheering on Dakota for her independent spirit and drive. A great read for those that like strong characters and high action.

Henchgirl is a highly entertain read. Dakota is a strong character, with a powerful sense off self and a determination to help her family. I really liked her inner and outer strength and think that young and new adult readers will highly enjoy the read.

Book Review: The Shadows Fianna Trilogy by Megan Chance

The Shadows is the first book in the Fianna Trilogy by Megan Chance. Grace Knox is about to turn seventeen, and the world of Victorian New York society should be opening to her, instead, Grace’s world is closing in. The family business is gone, her brother is drinking and gambling,  her widowed mother cannot cope, her grandmother is slipping into madness, and now Grace is having disturbing dreams of ancient battles. Grace’s only hope is to marry Patrick Devlin and let his fortune save them all. Then Grace meets Diarmid, an Irish stableboy. Being with him means losing everything. But the secrets and mystery surrounding him are too compelling to ignore. Soon Grace is drawn into his world of legend and heroes, magic and prophecy.

The Shadows is the solid start to an intriguing series. I liked the premise and the combination of historical feel and Irish mythology. Grace is a reliable and reasonably pragmatic girl, though she does occasionally get a little romantic minded. She wants happiness and to save her family from destitution, and it seems that Patrick is the best choice to reach both goals. I like that Grace questions motives and feelings rather than just taking everything said at face value. The story becomes more interesting and complicated with the addition of Diarmid and the tasks everyone has ahead of them. There was a lot of build up for the problems and battles ahead, but some resolution and revelations when the book ended as well.

The Shadows captured my imagination and made me interested in reading more Irish mythology and continuing the series. It was a solid foundation for what could turn out to be a great new series.

Megan Chance is the award winning author of several adult novels, including Bone River. A former television news photographer with a BA from Western Washington University, Megan lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two daughters. Visit her at www.meganchance.com.

Early Book Review: Magical Animal Adoption Agency: The Enchanted Egg by Kallie George and Alexandra Boiger

The Enchanted Egg is the second book in the Magical Animal Adoption Agency series written by Kallie George and illustrated by Alexandra Boiger. It is currently scheduled for release on November 3 2015. Mr. Jams brought home an enchanted egg from his last journey, and Clover can't wait to find out what kind of creature the polka-dotted shell contains. But one morning after Mr. Jams leaves on another trip Clover checks on the cozy nest of feathers she's made for the egg. She finds the nest empty and the baby animal is nowhere in sight! Clover is anxious to find the creature, but the Agency is full of visitors looking for pets of their own. Will Clover be able to match them with their perfect companions and save the mysterious animal before Mr. Jams returns from his trip?

The Enchanted Egg is a great follow up to Clover's Luck. Clover is settling into her work at the Magical Adoption Center, and loving the daily tasks involved in learning about and taking care of magical creatures. When Mr. Jams runs off again to get special supplied to care for whatever might be hatching for the mystery egg she is a little worried, but content in her duties. That is until the mystery egg hatches and Clover cannot find anything by mischief in the wake of the critter, but no sight of it. When a variety of hopeful adopters come looking for the perfect pets, and Clover still looking for the former inhabitant of the egg her wit and resolve are tested. Thankfully Clover's good heart and quick thinking save the day again.

The Enchanted Egg is a delightful book. I do suggest reading the series in order, and thanks to a little tease at the end of this book I am very eager to get my hands on the next book. I highly recommend this series to young chapter book readers that enjoy reading about animals, magic, or both.  

Early Book Review: Bound by Sin by Jacquelyn Frank

Bound by Sin is the third book in the Immortal Brothers series by Jacquelyn Frank. It is currently scheduled foresees on September 29 2015. This is a series I highly recommend to read in order, although the love stories of each book do stand alone, it is the bigger story of the struggles the brothers face that require reading as a series.

After being chained to a star to burn endlessly as punishment for stealing immortality from the gods, Jaykun has been unshackled to wage war alongside his brothers. But each night Jaykun must still suffer, his body burning from the inside out. One early morning, recovering from his torment, he encounters a beautiful stranger on the beach. Naked from her midnight-black hair down to her sandy toes, she approaches him with starry-eyed innocence and the unmistakable full body of a woman. His brothers fear he is blinded by her radiant beauty, that she has been sent by their enemies to seduce and destroy him. Jileana is indeed from another world, one Jaykun cannot begin to imagine. But will their passion burn brightly enough to light their way through the darkness that threatens to consume all in its path?

Bound by Sin is a goods continuation of the story, however I will admit that it was long enough since reading the previous book that I did not initially remember the particulars of how Jaykun joined his brothers. Thankfully, the story gets down to the nitty gritty pretty quickly. Jaykun and Jileana meet pretty quickly, and their attraction and agreement comes about with little trouble. Jillian is all wonder and wide eyed innocence, obviously different. Jaykun does not trust easily, and both wants to protect those around him and his own heart. While trying to gather control of the city he and his brothers have just won, the relationship between the two grows. Journeying to Jileana’s home adds a new level of conflict and danger to the mix. The pairing worked well for me, but I will admit that once they got to Jileana’s home the names got confusing, and some things got either too simple or complicated- they just did not work for me as well as I had hoped. I did still enjoy the read, it just did not hold up to me high standards for the author.

Bound by Sin is not my favorite of the series, but the set up at the end gives me high hopes for the forth. Even though I prefer the other books in the series so far, this book still had some really good moments and is worth the read, particularly for Frank fans.  

Early Book Review: Nightwalker by Jacquelyn Frank

Nightwalker by Jacquelyn Frank is the final chapter in the Nightwalkers saga. It is currently scheduled for release on August 25 2015.  If you have not read the previous books in the series, do not start here. bonus points go to readers that have read other series by Frank, as you will see everything come together!

Kamen is a Bodywalker, an ancient soul reborn in one human host after another. He’s also a prisoner of his own kind and his own guilt because he is the one that released Apep, the deadly god who threatens the existence of their world. He just might have found a way to defeat Apep, but first he needs to convince the other nations of the Nightwalkers to set aside their centuries-old conflicts and band together. If he fails, all will be lost. Kamen makes first contact with a stunning, ghostly pale beauty named Geneviève. Part Wraith and part human, Viève shares the hunger for redemption and for connection. Her scintillating touch holds the kiss of death, and yet it makes Kamen feel more alive than ever. They find comfort, lust, and redemption in each other. However, they cannot lose site of the need to unite all the Nightwalkers and fast because Apep is ready for war.

Nightwalker tells the story I have wanted since first meeting the Bodywalkers, Kamen's story and redemption. he is filled with guilt, and redeems himself with hard work and putting the good of the world above his own safety at every turn. Vieve has always been looked down upon because she is a halfbreed, and finds acceptance and understanding in Kamen, who does not lie or mince words. the combination and quick attraction between them was very well done. As a whole i liked the book and that many questions were answered. Nightwalker brought all the Nightwalker races that we have met via Frank together in a single book. I think every character I have ever read about from her paranormal romances makes an appearance or gets a mention here. However, I was disappointed with the end, because there are still many questions and lives left hanging. I full expect a new, related series, to begin soon to pick up where this left off.

Nightwalker did a good job or wrapping up the Bodywalker story arc, but I think billing it as the conclusion of the larger series is a wee bit misleading. There are many newly discovered characters and stories that now need to be given some kind of closure. If you were hoping for a big splashy end, you do get the battle you are expecting. However, there are still many puzzle pieces not in their place and I am sure there will be a new series in the near future to wrap them up, or at least I hope so.

Early Book Review: Amber Smoke by Kristen Cast

Amber Smoke by Kristen Cast is the first book in her The Escaped series, and is scheduled for release on June 9 2015. There is a world that runs parallel to our own where the souls of the damned are caged and are looked over by the Furies. The barrier that separates our world from theirs has weaken and damned souls are escaping. The Furies send an untested warrior, their only son, Alek to try to bring those souls back. However, he won’t be able to do it alone. Eva has grown up, beautiful and beloved, but surrounded by secrets. First, she will be hunted in an ancient feud that will threaten her life. Then, she will become the hunter. With the police closing in and two worlds on the verge of crumbling around them Alek and Eva must find each other, discover the limits of their powers, and work together to save everything they hold dear, including one another.

In Amber Smoke we see the worlds on Alek and Eva collide and their adventure together begin. There is significant world building; getting the mythology, characters, and larger story arch in place for the continuing story. I enjoyed the character building. I liked Eva and Alek, and found myself caring about them and a few of the side characters quickly. I feel like I can predict at least one plot twist in book two, or maybe later, just by

Blending elements of mythology with the dazzling storytelling that her fans have devoured through the House of Night series, Kristin Cast weaves a spellbinding and passionate tale that starts a thrilling new series with an explosive charge.

You might recognize the name Cast from the writing team of the House of Night series, which Kristen co-wrote with her other. I read the Night, and recommended it to many. However, about halfway through that series I lost interest. I did enjoy a few references to the House of Night series made in the book, and sincerely hope that this series either holds steady or gets better rather than slowly sliding downhill like the Night series. 

Book Review: In Search of Lost Dragons by Élian Black'mor, M Carine, Jezequel, Hannah Gorfinkel-Elder, Jason Ullmeyer

In Search of Lost Dragons by Élian Black'mor, M Carine, Jezequel, Hannah Gorfinkel-Elder , and Jason Ullmeyer is a book with full-color paintings paired with a unique story of world-wide exploration and dragon encounters. An  illustrator and reporter journeys from Europe through the Middle East and finally to Saigon in search of the dark caverns and mountaintop perches where the elusive winged serpents dwell. With the gift of seeing the invisible, our explorer friend records each encounter in a journal of fully painted artwork and accompanies his findings with snippets of local lore as evidence that these hidden beasts continue to shape the world in unexpected ways.

In Search of Lost Dragons is full of beautifully stunning artwork. The variety of dragons and other creatures is simply stunning. I will say that I did have some trouble with the text. It was written in a flowing cursive print, like a true travel or research journal would be. However, I found the font hard to read, particularly in the digital format I was reading. Perhaps this is not a problem with the print version, but frankly the artwork was stunning enough for me to make the bits of the story I had to strain to read negligible. The variations on dragon types and environments expanded on the accepted or well known dragon myths and folklore, giving me new ideas and images of dragons. I have always been a big fan of fantasy, and thought I had seen it all as far as dragons went. The images here broke some of those conventions and stretched my notions about dragons.

In Search of Lost Dragons is a book I would recommend to fantasy art lovers. I found the pages stunning and found myself studying small details and the artwork in general for a long time. It was very well done.

Book Review: The Aesir Kids by James Grant Goldin and Charlotte Goldin

The Aesir Kids by is a middle grade novel co-authored by James Grant Goldin and his daughter Charlotte Goldin. The story takes some recognizable and well known bits of Norse mythology and expands on the stories to create something new and exciting. this books follows the adventures of  children of the Norse gods. they have incredible strength, magical weapons, and monsters for pets. They also have problems with school, bullies, family issues, and attacks by giants. When Asgard, the home of the gods, is threatened with utter destruction it is up to the children of Thor, Sif, Loki, Freya, Balder; and some very special friends, to save it.

The Aesir Kids features some high adventure and multifaceted characters that will create interest and excitement. Thrud (the teenage daughter of Thor) has to balance fighting trolls and giants with her after-school job waiting tables at Valhalla. Fire (son of the three mysterious Norns) is out in the world for the first time and has to learn a lot more than school can teach him. Magni and Modi (Thrud's younger brothers) whose strength is matched only by their impulsiveness. Ull is the greatest skier of the gods, that is except for maybe Skade, the four-year-old goddess of skiing. Together with Tjalfi, his sister Roskva, Forsetti, Noss, and Hela (who each have gifts of their own) this special group of godlings need to save thier home, and all the none worlds. It is only by mastering their gifts and trusting in each other that they can defeat Loki and save the universe.     This is a fantasy novel based on many actual characters from Norse mythology, and it feels a little like reading some of my favorite classic tales. It's the first published collaboration between author James Grant Goldin and his ten-year-old daughter, Charlotte Goldin.

I greatly enjoyed The Aesir Kids. I have always loved reading ancient Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology, and this story felt very true to the tradition. the characters all had their virtues and their faults, and in the end there is an idea of right and wrong that is vindicated. the fact that the author and his daughter worked together to create this story made it even better for me. I am eager to see what this team can do next.

Early Book Review: Dead Heat by Patricia Briggs

Dead Heat is the forth book in the Alpha & Omega series by Patricia Briggs. It is currently schedule for release on March 3 2015. For once, mated werewolves Charles and Anna are not traveling because of Charles’s role as his father’s enforcer. Their trip to Arizona is purely personal, with Charles planning to buy Anna a horse for her birthday and to spend some time with an old friend. Charles and Anna soon discover that a dangerous Fae being is on the loose, replacing human children with simulacrums. The Fae’s cold war with humanity is about to heat up; and Charles and Anna are in the cross fire.

Dead Heat is another fantastic installment of the Alpha & Omega series. Yes, I am a huge Briggs fan, and am thrilled when the book I am reading meets or exceeds my exceptions, which this book does. Anna and Charles have a great connection and relationship, and I love that each character and the relationship grows so much during this story. Oftentimes established characters and pairings get stagnant in series because they just stay the same and face different outside forces. this is not the case here. While Anna and Charles have to solve a mystery and face a really evil big bad here, they also have to deal with personal issues and grow together. It just makes me so happy to see them continue their journey rather than leaving their relationship and personal growth behind in light of danger.

Dead Heat is not a book to pick up without having read the previous books in the series. Anna and Charles are unique characters with a powerful backstory and mythology that is important to understand how far they have come before, and the monumental movement that happens here. fans of Briggs and this series will not be disappointed with this new addition to their addiction.

Best Young Adult Novels Retelling Fairy Tales New Perspectives and Life Given to Classic Stories

There are some stories we all know very well, from books or movies. Some authors have taken a chance and added new twists to classic fairy tales. Here are some that surpassed expectation.

Beastly by Alex Flinn is a modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Kyle Kingsbury was a golden boy. He had everything a high school boy could want; good looks, popularity, good grades and money. When he behaves beastly toward a classmate, she appears in his bedroom and makes that adjective true in looks as well as deed. His superficial world falls apart and he has to transform himself inside to earn the love that can transform his exterior. This is a fun, entertaining read that dos not become trite or corny which is always a danger in this kind of story. Finn has also written his take on Sleeping Beauty titled A Kiss in Time, and many other tales since. 

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George is the retelling of the Twelve Dancing Princesses. Here the story is set in nineteen-century Europe. Rose and her younger sisters are trapped by their mother's bargain to dance every night until their dancing slippers are worn. Galen is a soldier with a knitting hobby and a personality that has him being polite and kind to the elderly. What I really love about this retelling is that the princesses are feisty with minds and plans of their own; they are not simply waiting around for rescue. While the romance aspect seems a little thin, there is a sequel to the book, which follows Rose on to the next stage of her life. Again the author has done many more fairy tale related books since. 

Robin McKinley has retold a few fairy tales, and done all of them very well. Spindle's End is her version of the Sleeping Beauty story. Everyone knows the basics, infant cursed to die on a birthday after sticking her finger on a spindle. While tat stays the same, in McKinley's version our heroine is raised by a peasant fairy and grows up wild, preferring pants to skirts and able to communicate with animals. Twists to the original tale have her stronger and more capable than one might expect in this story, and it reads extremely well. Surprises make the read so much more intriguing and entertaining. . If you have not read any of McKinley's novels I strongly suggest exploring her work, she has never disappointed me.

Magic Circle by Donna Jo Napoli is the unique retelling of Hansel and Gretel from the witch's point of view. She was tricked and forced to live as a witch, alone until she takes in two lost children. She fights the evil that has invaded her life. The book is intriguing, beautiful, surprising and disturbing on several levels. It was a great read and one of many reimaginings of fairy tales by this author that I have found to be fantastic.

Before Midnight by Cameron Dokey and Mahlon F. Craft is a retelling of Cinderella, and part of the Once Upon a Time series of fairy tale reimaginings. This retelling is full of strong women and matters of family, loyalty and courage. While most of the basic elements of the known story are here, the characters do not blindly slide into their usual molds. No one in inherently evil or doormats to be mistreated and abused. The changes and twists inn this version of the classic tale captivate and entertain.

The Zombie Renaissance

Zombies have long been part of folklore and horror stories. There are a number of reasons that zombie lore can be found in every culture, but these days zombies have escaped the confines of the horror genre and B-Movies and can be found in just about every type of book, so regardless of your favorite genre, there is likely a zombie book out there for you. If you want to explore beyond Walking Dead and Warm Bodies and the cross media success they have had, here are some suggestions. 

Breathers: A Zombies Lament by S.G. Browne is not your typical zombie novel. This is a romantic comedy tale told from the zombie’s point of view. it shades light on the troubles faced by two zombies in love.

The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan is a young adult novel with romance, action, and a very quick pace. Mary's isolated village is governed by the Sisterhood. After they set a monster, one of the Unconsecrated, loose within the village, Mary and the few other survivors set off in the unknown.

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Seth Grahame-Smith is one of the monster mash ups that flooded the market a few years ago. Combine Austin;'s idyllic English countryside with a zombie plague. Elizabeth Bennett must save herself and the alluring though infuriating Mr. Darcy.

Graveminder by Melissa Marr will appeal to those that love gothic fiction. Drawn back to the home of her youth, Rebekkah Barrow learns the secret of keeping the dead in their graves and the role she has inherited.

The Reapers are the Angels by Alden Bell was an 2011 Alex Award Winner and a Nutmeg Award Nominee. It follows the journey of a young woman who wanders a vast wasteland never knowing what life before the zombies was like. Savoring glimpses of beauty and kindness, Temple is torn between hope and despair and must face forces beyond her darkest nightmares.

Gil's All Fright Diner by A. Lee Martinez
The Duke of Werewolves and the Earl of Vampires stave off hordes of the undead at a roadside diner in this uproarious debut novel.

Happy Hour of the Damned by Mark Henry
Fashionista zombie Amanda Feral investigates the disappearance of an undead friend in Seattle. Full of visceral action, this urban fantasy series has plenty to sink your teeth into.

Craving even more zombie goodness?

• Cell by Stephen King
  Filled with the gory details that made Stephen King’s name synonymous with horror, this faced-paced novel evokes a world where zombies are made not with a bite, but with a phone call.
• Zombie Movies: The Ultimate Guide by Glenn Kay
  Summarizing more than 250 films made between 1932 and 2008, this resource chronologically lists the outbreak of zombie films and their unyielding rise to popularity.
• Patient Zero: A Joe Ledger Novel by Jonathan Maberry
  Baltimore detective and Army veteran Joe Ledger puts all of his considerable talents to the test when he is recruited into a shadowy government agency responsible for keeping the zombie menace at bay.
• World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War by Max Brooks
  Set 10 years after a zombie war, the story is a collection of first-person accounts from survivors and covers all angles of the earth-shattering event.
• The Zen of Zombie: Better Living Through the Undead by Scott Kenemore
  Learn the secrets to true and sustained happiness by exploring the uncomplicated yet philosophical and insightful world of the zombie.
• Pay Me in Flesh by K. Bennett
  Lawyer Mallory Caine is a far cry from your stereotypical zombie, though she does eat brains. Sexy, smart and put together, this savvy lady fights for justice for all.
• Zombie Haiku by Ryan Mecum
  Chronicling one zombies slow but inevitable decomposition in the form of haiku, this ancient art form is elevated to hilarious new heights.
• Nekropolis: A Matt Richter Novel by Tim Waggoner
  Zombie private investigator Matt Richter walks the mean streets of Nekropolis trying to keep the peace, and himself from falling apart.
• Zombies for Zombies: Advice and Etiquette for the Living Dead by David Murphy
  Becoming a zombie can be really demotivating. Full of tips and tricks on important topics like fashion, hygiene and nutrition, this guide is meant to usher you into your new “life” with ease.

Three of My Favorite Novels Inspired by Mythology

Mythology and other legends often explore universal truths about humanity, even ones that we would prefer to ignore. These novels take the original tales and put new spins on characters and stories that mankind has never forgotten.

 

American Gods by Neil Gaiman is a favorite of mine, but I freely admit being a Gaiman fan girl. He is an amazing storyteller and just draws his readers into the worlds that he creates. If you have the opportunity to listen to his work on audio book I highly recommend it, as he does his own narrations and does a phenomenal job. In American Gods Gaiman uses players from Norse, Hindu, Egyptian and African legends and throws them into today's world with their personalities and scheming fully intact. Readers follow Shadow Moon, released from prison one day after his wife is killed in a car accident. He says goodbye to his old life and accepts the job offer from a strange new acquaintance. Shadow is drawn into the strange reality of gods living in America and their battles amongst themselves.

The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul by Douglas Adams is the sequel to Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency. We see the intrepid Dirk Gently investigating a man possessed by Odin. The novel is twisting and rambling but in an indescribably good way. Adams gave the world a novel that is both confusing and thought invoking. Every single time I pick up this book I see something that that I do not remember from previous readings. Puns and one liners will keep you laughing while the Norse gods wondering around in society will get you thinking about the nature of man, immortality and what people want versus what they need. 

The Lightning Thief and the entire Percy Jackson and the Olympians series by Rick Riordan are found in the young adult section. The series is well known now due to the movie, but the books are still well worth reading. Do not skip the books just to watch the movie; the books are worth reading and adding to your collection. Young Percy Jackson just can not seem to blend in with 'normal' kids. He gets expelled from schools for fighting with monsters that only he can see. Soon he is sent to Camp Half-Blood where he learns the reason behind his problems, and that his is the child of a god. Prophesy quests and godly feuds fuel this action pact series that is a great read for everyone from around age nine and up. Older readers might also enjoy Oh. My Gods. by Tera Lynn Childs which is another series featuring children of the gods, but this time from a teenage girl's perspective.

Other fantastic novels of this sort include Radiant Darkness by Emily Whitman which retells the story of Persephone and Hades as well as The King Must Die by Mary Renault, The Firebrand by Marion Zimmer Bradley, any books in P.C. Cast's Goddess series, Quicksilver by Stephanie Spinner and Ilium by Dan Simmons.

Early Book Review: The Magical Animal Adoption Agency by Kallie George and Alexandra Boiger

The Magical Animal Adoption Agency is the first children’s chapter book in the Clover's Luck series written by Kallie George and illustrated by Alexandra Boiger. It is currently scheduled for release on February 3, 2015. Despite her name, Clover has always felt decidedly unlucky. So when she stumbles upon a mysterious cottage in the Woods while looking for her escaped bird, she can hardly believe her good fortune. It's the Magical Animal Adoption Agency, and it houses creatures of all kinds. Fairy horses, unicorns, and a fiery young dragon are just the beginning! Mr. Jams, the Agency's owner, agrees to hire her as summer helper and Clover hopes her luck has finally changed. But when she's left alone to care for the Agency, a sneaky witch comes after the magical creatures! Will Clover outsmart her in time to protect the animals? 

The Magical Animal Adoption Agency is a fun story for anyone that loves magic but has always felt less than lucky. Clover had hoped to spend her summer at a camp riding and caring for horses, but of course he best friend got the last available slot. This leaves Clover home with her working parents that never seem to be home. To make matters worse the latest in a stream of failed attempts to have a pet has escaped. Wondering in the woods to find said lost bird might not be the best idea for Clover, since there are rumors of ‘beasties’ living in those woods. Thankfully, Clover finds the best kind of beasts, ones being taken care of at the Adoption Center. She discovers her own strengths and abilities in taking care of the animals and dealing with the people that come in to see them. I liked that it is Clovers own wit and caring that turn out to save the day, rather than anything luck related. I found the story to have humor and a great message about responsibility, kindness, and being yourself. It is a fun and sweet read and a great opening for a series.

The Magical Animal Adoption Agency is a book that I fully intend on sharing with my daughter as soon as I can get a paper copy. Any animal or magic loving child with greatly enjoy this story, and my girl adores both. There is danger and adventure, but also the mundane acts involved in feeding and caring for animals, even magical ones. I think it strikes a wonderful balance and will be the new favorite series for many young readers.

Five Roman and Greek Mythology Resources

Myths, legends and fairy tales are immensely fascinating to me. Especially the way certain tales echo each other when the original storytellers had no way of communicating with each other across distance, language barriers and time. Greek and Roman mythology is one segment of the larger whole that I have found phenomenal resources to help me explore deeper. Here are my personal favorite books that teach and entertain in that realm of mythology. I did not include individual stories, such as the Iliad or the Odyssey, only collections and reference materials.

Mythology by Edith Hamilton is a collection and review of Greek and Roman myths, with a few Norse myths thrown in for good measure. Hamilton tells the main stories and describes the characters as well.  She gives commentary on the stories and shares how different versions of the characters and stories compare. I currently own two copies of this book, which I have read and reread several times over the years. She also wrote The Greek Way and The Roman Way for more detailed understanding of each culture.

Bulfinch's Greek and Roman Mythology from Thomas Bulfinch is another fantastic resource for myth information. This book is full of vivid retellings of myths from the Roman; Greek and Norse cultures. The myths are enjoyable and easy reads, while the index of names makes looking up references to the characters made in other works a simple process. I find this book to be another invaluable addition to my personal library.

The Dictionary of Classical Mythology by John Edward Zimmerman has entries about the Greek and Roman myths that are clear and concise. The names have pronunciation guides and where they are mentioned, cross-references with related entries and information on authors. This book does a great job of balancing the needs of novices and fans in the field. 

The Greek Myths: Complete Edition from Robert Graves offers readers exactly what the title proclaims. Myths are told with commentary and supported heavily with illustrations. The myth retellings are wonderful; however, I often disagreed with his interpretations of individual myths, which is gratifying in its own way. I have yet to find a more extensive collection of Greek myths than that in this book. 

The Encyclopedia of Classic Mythology: The Ancient Greek, Roman, Celtic and Norse Legends from Arthur Cotterell is a comprehensive and useful reference source. You can read the book straight through and enjoy the stories or look up names and myths that interest you and learn more about their stories. It is a great addition to the personal library of anyone interested in learning more about mythology.

Some Werewolf Romances Worth Reading

Romance readers have seen a swift uprise in paranormal reading material. Vampires, witches, psychic gifts, and things that you might never have seen in your dreams have been becoming increasingly visible in popular literature. Werewolves are on the rise in this sub-genre, so if you want to read some romance where at least one major player turns furry here are some great places to start. I have tried to stick with some of the lesser known series and authors, since most of the same books come up in every werewolf series discussion.

 

The Crimson Moon series by L.A. Banks begins with Bad Blood. This series has science fiction elements, government conspiracies, supernatural creatures, romance and great action. Banks does a great job of creating a realistic and culturally diverse world. In this series Sasha Trudeau is a special operations soldier working to help the government keep the supernatural in the world under control and secret from the general population. Rules change, dirty deals made and revelations had. Sasha's world is changed, and that is just the beginning.

Karen MacInerney writes the Tales of the Urban Werewolf trilogy, which begins with Howling at the Moon. This series centers on Sophie Garou and her seemingly perfect life. She has a great career, fantastic boyfriend, and is gorgeous. However she also happens to turn very hairy and cranky once a month. All three books show up Sophie's struggle to keep her secret safe, her career moving in the right direction and the people she cares about safe.

Never Cry Werewolf by Heather Davis is a young adult novel about sixteen-year girl that has made some bad choices. With some urging by her stepmother Shelby is sent off to what she terms "brat-camp" where she meets the other teens that are there for a wide variety of reasons. One resident is a werewolf, you can guess that from the title, and most are from families of the rich and famous. I do not want to ruin the book by telling you who the werewolf is and how it all plays out, however I will assure you that it is not Shelby.

Carrie Vaughn writes the Kitty Norville series. The first book in the series is Kitty and the Midnight Hour. The series focuses on Kitty in her life as a late night radio host and her secret life as a werewolf. Her radio airtime becomes a talk show for the supernaturally inclined, which makes her attempts to keep her own furry side to herself nearly impossible as other real supernatural creatures call in, take action against her, and simply cause trouble. This is a fun and entertaining series with a lot of character growth in each installment. The eighth book in the series is due to be released at the end of June 2010.

Blood and Chocolate by Annette Curtis Klause is a young adult novel that was made into a movie. If you saw the movie, forget it. It does not do a good job following the book. The book, as cliché as it may be, is much better than the movie. The story follows a teenage girl, that just happens to be a werewolf. She is struggling to balance what she wants with what is expected of her. The conflict between the pack culture and she desire to be normal and accepted by both of her worlds is both touching and relatable.

If you like this sub-genre of romance and have already read these books, or are just looking for a larger list, or some of the better known authors in the genre, then I also recommend books by Kelley Armstrong, Maggie Stiefvater  (young adult), Eileen Wilks, Terry Spear, Susan Krinard, Rebecca York, Patricia Briggs and Kresley Cole.

Book Review: I'm Undead and Hungry!: Meet a Zombie (Monster Buddies) by Shannon Knudsen and Chiara Buccheri

I'm Undead and Hungry!: Meet a Zombie is the latest book in the Monster Buddies series by Shannon Knudsen and Chiara Buccheri. Like the rest of the books in the series, this book combines popular culture, folklore, science, and fun. Roscoe is a zombie, he  came back from the dead. But don't be scared because Roscoe's not real. He's one of the monsters you meet in stories. Find out what turns people into zombies, learn about different kinds of zombies around the world, and discover where zombie stories come from. 

My son is a monster maniac. I'm Undead and Hungry! is right up his alley. There a silly and slightly scary cartoon illustrations combined with information about zombies in books and movies as well as from traditional stories from all parts of the world. I really like the matter of fact way both then and factual information is presented. It does not take the fun out of the monster, but just might take away the fear that might keep your little one up at night.

I'm Undead and Hungry! would be eaten up by monster fans, and could be used to explain to children that the monsters are not real. This could be exceptionally useful around Halloween when movies, costumes, and stories might be enough to spook even the bravest children.

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.