Book Review: Curse of the Were-Hyena by Bruce Hale

Curse of the Were-Hyena is the first book in the Monstertown Mystery series by Bruce Hale. Mr. Chu, the coolest teacher ever, has developed some very unusual habits, like laughing hysterically for no reason, sniffing people's homework, and chasing chickens. When best friends Carlos and Benny decide to find out what's happening to him, they get caught up in some moonlight madness. And it looks like just the beginning of the weirdness that has arrived in the town of Monterrosa.

Curse of the Were-Hyena is an entertaining read that will appeal to a wide audience. Carlos and Benny each get into a good amount of trouble as they do their best to save their teacher, unravel the mystery, and not become were-anything in the process. I like that they are fully aware of what they are doing and that the adults are not foolish. The adults might miss some things, but are not the clueless cutouts that are often found in children's books. Carlos' family is facing big changes, which gives the story an undercurrent of him trying to find his place in light of a younger sister with big things going on. Benny might be a little to reliable for the goofy option, but I still know people that think like his, so i still found his character to be realistic. The family dynamics play a role, and change as the story continues, which adds an extra dimension to the story. The mystery and supernatural elements kept me on my toes, and held a couple surprises for me. I was pleased to actually have some of the final twists to be unexpected, and in some cases completely so. While not a perfect story, it was well worth the read and I think  it will become a favorite series for many reluctant readers.

Curse of the Were-Hyena is a fast and fun story that will be a hit with middle grade readers. I think this is a series that might encourage more reluctant readers in that age range to follow the series and explore reading a little more.

Book Review: Betrayed by a Kiss (An Unlikely Hero) by Kris Rafferty

Betrayed by a Kiss is the first book in the An Unlikely Hero series by Kris Rafferty. Marnie Somerville is sure Dane MacLain is just another bad guy. Her job as resident investigator at Whitman Enterprises is to track down the owners of delinquent accounts, but something about Dane’s case is off, and Marnie can’t resist a good mystery. The secret files and cover-up she finds after hacking her boss’s computer are more than she expected, and now she’s fleeing her former employer, right into Dane’s arms. Former detective Dane MacLain has spent the last year gathering intel against Whitman Enterprises, the company he believes responsible for his wife’s death. When a beautiful and intense woman shows up with information, Dane is willing to accept all she has to offer, especially when the help comes in such a sexy package. Caught in a deadly cat and mouse chase, Dane must do everything he can to protect Marnie as they run for their lives.

Betrayed by a Kiss is fairly fast paced, with plenty of danger and action. Marnie had been trying to go straight, only to discover that the company she worked for was worse than anyone she had worked with while she was growing up. Dane is a former cop that just cannot let go of the wrongs he knows exists, and whats to prove that they exist. They have each been through betrayals and danger in the past, but when Marnie tries to save Dane's life they end up working together to bring down Whitman Enterprises. I liked that we get to see Dane's daughter and sister, and that there is plenty of action and danger to keep things moving alone. I also like that Marnie seems to be a very complex character. She has a serious past and some crazy connections, but sometimes I felt like there must have been a previous book of something to connect people that seemed important to the story and had backstory that was not included in this story. The tension between our main players was high, and the intentions and decisions believable. It all fit together well, but I just did not connect to the characters or story, and found myself skimming over bits of the high action just to get to the resolution faster. I am not sure why the disconnect, there was nothing I can point to. It is perfectly possible it was my mood weather than the fault of the material.

Betrayed by a Kiss is one of those books that had everything, and should have been fantastic, but I just never really got invested in. There was nothing really wrong with it, but I never connected with the characters for some reason. It could have been just not the book I was in the mood for when I read it. I still cannot put my finger on what did not click for me. 

Early Book Review: Demon by Jason Shiga

Demon is a the first book of a four part mystery adventure in graphic novel format by Jason Shiga. It is currently scheduled for release on October 4 2016. Jimmy cannot die. When his body is killed, Jimmy simply takes over the body of the person in closest proximity to him. Simple, right? Not once Jimmy gets started. His mind is sharp and highly analytical, and he cares about nothing but his own survival and the survival of his adorable daughter. To avoid the shadowy government agency on his tail, Jimmy will do anything, even if it means tearing the world down around him.

Demon is an interesting idea taken down a dark path. The idea of being immortal is not new, but the concept of taking over the body of the nearest living person when you die is interesting. I liked the way the exact circumstances of Jimmy’s powers were revealed, and some of the effort he going to in order to escape. However, I feel like there are so many unanswered questions, most importantly why he was so determined to kill himself in the first place. I know that there are more books coming, but I do not know it I had enough crumbs to those answers to make me follow along. The art is the expected style from the artist, and worked well, but was nothing earth shaking for me. I think there is a definite audience for the book, I am just not part of it.

Demon is a dark and sometimes funny graphic novel. If you enjoy the twisted humor of the author you will enjoy this new series. I found it a little less interesting than I was hoping for, but I can see the appeal for certain readers.

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

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

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

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

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

Book Review: Gone Too Deep by Katie Ruggle (Search and Rescue)

Gone Too Deep by Katie Ruggle is the third book in the Search and Rescue series. The first two books are Hold Your Breath and Fan the Flames, which I do recommend reading first. While each romance does stand up well enough on its own, there is an underlying storyline that makes much more sense if you read the books in order.

In the remote Rocky Mountains, lives depend on the Search & Rescue brotherhood.  George Holloway has spent his life alone, exploring the treacherous beauty of the Colorado Rockies. He's the best survival expert Search and Rescue has, which makes him the obvious choice to lead Ellie Price through deadly terrain to find her missing father. There's just one problem, Ellie is everything George is not. She is a city girl, charming, gregarious, delicate, small. And when she looks up at him with those big, dark eyes, he swears he would tear the world apart to keep her safe. With a killer on the loose, he may have no choice. Ellie is determined to find her father no matter the cost. But as she and her gorgeous mountain of a guide fight their way through an unforgiving wilderness, they find themselves in the crosshairs of a dangerous man in search of revenge. 

Gone Too Deep takes polar opposites and tosses them together. Ellie is talkative and used to city life. George is a silent mountain of a man, used to doing things his way. When Ellie’s father calls and tells her that he is afraid for his life and heading to a mountain cabin, she decided to go in search for him. George is her guide, and eventually so much more. She is not used to roughing it, but will do anything to help her mentally ill father, and George is a good guy that will do anything for here. Most of the story is told through Ellie’s eyes, we only get a page or so of George’s thoughts. Since he is not exactly talkative it makes connecting to him pretty hard, although he does talk to Ellie more than I expected by the end of the book. I thought the survival part of the story, the contributions the the larger story arch, and the slow burn between George and Ellie are very well done. Not getting into George’s head more is my only real complaint here- I wanted to get a better understanding of him and thought his observations would be both interesting and entertaining. 

Gone Too Deep is a great addition to this series, and I liked Ellie and the suspense aspects of the story. I only wish we got to know George a little better. I am looking forward to seeing whatever comes next, because the larger story arch has me hooked. 

Early Book Review: Her Rogue Alpha (X-Ops #5) by Paige Tyler

Her Rogue Alpha is the fifth book in the X-Ops series by Paige Tyler.  It is currently scheduled for release on September 6 2016. I highly recommend having read the previous books before diving into this one, particularly Her Fierce Warrior, because the main characters and their story has already begun. I think readers could catch on, but will lose a important understanding of how the characters got to where they are, and the larger story arc all comes together.

Former Special Forces Lieutenant Jayson Harmon can't believe that his war scars don't matter to beautiful feline shifter Layla Halliwell. Why would she saddle herself with a broken man? However, Layla knows that Jayson is a hero to the core, and that only she can heal his wounded soul. So when Jayson is deployed on another deadly mission, no way is Layla staying behind.

Her Rogue Alpha is a book that requires some prior reading, but is worth following the series. More than just a romance between Jayson and Layla, this is also about both of them coming to terms with their own limitations, abilities, and preconceptions. Jayson is still recovering from series injuries, and is likely never to be as strong or agile as he once was. Layla loves him for who he is, not who he was, since they met after the injuries. It is only after Jayson takes a crazy risk and is sent on a mission that (of course) is more dangerous and complicated than anyone expected. In the process of completing the mission everyone involved needs to come to terms with who they are and the feelings they have for others. Secondary stories, like the search for a cat burglar that manages to steal more than she bargains for from a major player and the continued experiments and politics surrounding hybrids and shifters. I do not recommend the read to newcomers to this series, but think that those that have been following this world since the first book, Her Perfect Mate, or even joined the craze a bit later, with get much enjoyment from the read.

Her Rogue Alpha is a solid addition to this series, and adds much to the larger story arc and hints at who might hold the leading roles in upcoming books. Fans of the author, and this series in particular, will not want to miss it.

Book Review: A Demon's Promise (Soul Savers) by Kristie Cook

A Demon's Promise is the first book in the Soul Savers series by Kristie Cook. This series is intended for New Adult readers. College freshman Alexis Ames wants nothing more than to tuck away her freak flag and pretend it doesn't exist. But when she falls for classmate Tristan Knight, everything changes. Behind his disguise of perfection, he's not exactly normal, either, and their secrets begin to unravel. She's the future leader of a matriarchal society that serves as the Angels' army on Earth, and he was created by the very Demons they fight. Legend says their souls were made for each other, but that doesn't mean love comes easily. While Tristan battles the darkness bred into him so he can be with her, she must conquer her own inner demons of past betrayals and learn to trust again. If their relationship can survive, their union will bring hope and promise to the world. But Hell's minions want the couple for themselves and will stop at nothing to have them. After all, Alexis and Tristan are a match made in Heaven-and in Hell.

A Demon's Promise is a decent start to a new series, and I liked the world building and build up of the story. Alexis has always healed quickly and been more than a little strange. Now that she is in college and a new town she wants to live a normal life. While that attention of the hot guy in class, and the electric charge between them, is not quite normal she cannot keep herself from enjoying his attentions and getting closer to him. As the relationship grows secrets come out questions about fate and betrayal come out as well. Is their love real or is everything just part of some scheme Alexis does not have all the pieces to figure out yet? Dangerous friends and foes, secrets, and surprises keep the book moving and the readers guessing. My biggest complaint is the unfinished feel of the book. The serial nature of the series bothered me, with too much up in the air at the end to make me feel like this book had an ending. I do not mind some unanswered questions to encourage readers to keep going, but it was almost like this was the first half of the book and the second book in the series just might be the second half. I will have to wait to find out.

A Demon's Promise has interesting characters and the start of some nice world and character building. I just did not feel that the story had a satisfying ending and left too much for the following books to cover. I liked what I read, but needed more. I am unsure if I will follow up to find out what I was missing in future volumes.

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

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

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

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

Book Review: A Promise of Fire (Kingmaker Chronicles) by Amanda Bouchet

A Promise of Fire is the first book in the Kingmaker Chronicles series by Amanda Bouchet. Catalia "Cat" Fisa is a powerful clairvoyant known as the Kingmaker. This smart-mouthed soothsayer has no interest in her powers and would much rather fly under the radar, far from the clutches of her homicidal mother. But when an ambitious warlord captures her, she may not have a choice. Griffin is intent on bringing peace to his newly conquered realm in the magic-deprived south. When he discovers Cat is the Kingmaker, he abducts her. But Cat will do everything in her power to avoid her dangerous destiny and battle her captor at every turn. Although up for the battle, Griffin would prefer for Cat to help his people willingly, and he's ready to do whatever it takes to coax her, even if that means falling in love with her.

A Promise of Fire is a wonderful start to a fantasy series. Cat is traveling with a circus across the lands offering fortune reading. When she meets Griffin the connection and trouble are both instant, and almost tangible. Her abilities promise to be helpful, despite her reluctance, and the journey of captive and group of captures begins. Relationships form and change and grow, and intrigue is certainly part of the world- in every corner. Cat has more secrets than her abilities, her childhood was horrific and the full extent of those issues and the reasons behind them are fairly obvious to readers about halfway through the book, but every character but Cat remains in the dark. The survival trials in the journey as well as the acclimation of Cat in the court are on point and both interesting and engaging. I am looking forward to discovering what comes next for Cat, Griffin, and the rest

A Promise of Fire is a fantastic series starter, and I look forward to following the growth of the characters and their stories in future installments. The world and character building style reminded me a bit of Maria V. Snyder, who I am a huge fan of. I think Bouchet has just landed on my must read list, instead of my want to read list.

Book Review: Ancient Magic (Dragon's Gift: The Huntress, #1) by Linsey Hall

Ancient Magic is the first book in the Dragon's Gift: The Huntress series by Linsey Hall. Cass Clereaux is good at two things: finding treasure and killing demons. Lying low is a close third because she has to be. She and her sisters are FireSouls, those unlucky few to inherit a piece of the dragon’s soul. Being born with the dragon’s covetousness should be a sweet gig, but it doesn’t come without a price. Stealing powers requires that I kill, and others would destroy me if they discover what I am. In a world full of magic, hiding my species is the only way to survive. Finding magical artifacts is the only way to pay the bills. It’s a dangerous job when you can barely use your magic, but that’s one of the things I like about it. When Aidan Merrick, the most powerful shifter in the city, hires her to find an ancient scroll,she does not have a choice. The scroll reveals what she is, and if anyone finds out her and her sisters are dead. 

Ancient Magic is a book that trusts you into the world abruptly and with no apologies. In the opening we met out trio and figure out that they are unique, have cool powers, and no memories. Flash forward to them as adults and making their way in the world while trying to keep a low profile but still satisfy their dragon-like desire for treasure. They make money by finding magical artifacts and selling the magical portion of them. A not so smooth search leads trouble to their door, and the wealthy Aidan. Apparently everyone is looking for the same school, for different reasons, and few of them good. The action and sparks are high and Aidan and Cass are pretty well fleshed out as characters. My only disappointment is that we did not get a good amount of time with Nix or Del (Cass’s sisters) or some of the important secondary characters that I fully expect to see again in future books. I am hoping the other four books in this series will give readers that deeper understanding and growth of all the characters.

Ancient Magic is a fast paced read with a solid romance, plenty of action, and interesting characters that I only wanted to see more of. I was left with a satisfying conclusion, and an urge to find out what is next for Aidan, Cass, Nix, and Del. 

Book Review: Dragon’s Heart (Dragon Fey Saga #1) by Michelle Rabe

Dragon’s Heart is the first book in the Dragon Fey Saga by Michelle Rabe. Serena Harlowe always knew her place. A foundling placed with the tutor of Illedrian royalty, she grew to be a talented fighter. After rising to the rank of lieutenant in the royal army, she proves her worth and thwarts the attempted assassination of the man she loves. The selfless act will change her life forever and start a chain of events that will unlock her hidden past.

Dragon’s Heart is a multilayered start to a series that offer high fantasy, romance, and fierce female characters. Killian is the human prince, fierce and fair but tired of doing his family's bidding and dealing with the marriage mart when he already found the woman of his dreams. Serena is a foundling that has been raised around the palace and worked hard to become part of the guard that protects the kingdom. Neither know that the Dark Fey, which everyone assumes are gone, are pulling strings and trying to take over, while the Dragon Fey are not quite extinct either and both are much closer to things than anyone might expect. The characters each are multi dimensional, and have growth as the book progresses, this is true both the main characters and the secondary characters. Royal expectations, life, and love are all on the line as Serena's past comes to light and best friends turned lovers have bigger obstacles to over come than either could have expected. Secondary characters and the expanding world make this an extremely interesting and entertaining read. I am looking forward to seeing where all this goes next.

Dragon’s Heart is a solid opening to what promises to be an interesting series. I enjoyed the character and world building, and while many questions are answered there are some interesting options left open at the end of the book. The balance between satisfying readers and leaving them looking forward to the next book is done close to perfectly here.

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

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

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

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

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

Book Review: The Girl in the Well is Me by Karen Rivers

The Girl in the Well is Me by Karen Rivers is a middle grade novel. Longing to be one of the popular girls in her new town, Kammie Summers has fallen into a well during a (fake) initiation into their club. Now Kammie’s trapped in the dark, counting the hours, waiting to be rescued. As hours pass, Kammie’s real-life predicament mixes with memories of the best and worst moments of her life so far, including the awful reasons her family moved to this new town in the first place. And as she begins to feel hungry and thirsty and light-headed, Kammie starts to imagine she has company, including a French-speaking coyote and goats that just might be zombies.

The Girl in the Well is Me starts just after Kammie has fallen into a well due to a stunt the girls she desperately want to fit in with ask her to perform. As she sits stuck in the well, waiting for help and hoping the girls will either do something to get her out or find someone who can, she thinks about how she ended up there. She remembers her desperation to fit in, and how she should have tried to make real friends rather than trying to be accepted by the popular clique. She thinks about why her family moved for her home, why they are no longer rich, and what has separated them from her father. She thinks about some of the worst moments in her life, which all seem to be recent. She thinks about the good things, like the record store and the cat she likes best at home. Thoughts of suicide are included and is parental incarceration, so if those are anxiety triggers for you then you might want to skip the read. However, I think it is handled very well to make the reader feel less alone and better understood. I will admit to tears, and more than a few moments when I had to put the book down and take a moment. Thankfully, there was also a good amount of witty or otherwise amusing moments to balance the read out a little. A very good read, but not for a light read or an escape. 

The Girl in the Well is Me is an emotional read that actually had me in tears a few times. I think any reader that has faced family problems, depression, or even just fears about fitting in will find something to relate to here- and the knowledge that they are not alone.  

Book Review: Devil and the Deep (Deep Six #2) by Julie Ann Walker

Devil and the Deep is the second book in the Deep Six by Julie Ann Walker. I do recommend reading Hell of High Water before this book, because it includes the first meeting of our leading couple and the personalities and dynamics of most of the characters, but newcomers would catch up pretty quickly.

Cocktail parties, political fundraisers, and charity events are Maddy Powers' way of life. But the daring man who appropriated her father's yacht a couple of months ago is still out there, somewhere, and she wants to pay him back for the scorching kiss they shared. Behind his suave smile and ladykiller eyes, Bran Palladino carries a dark secret that keeps him from pursuing Maddy, even though he can't get her out of his head. But when Maddy is kidnapped as part of a grand scheme, it's time to put up or shut up because Bran can't live without Maddy now.

Devil and the Deep is a faced paced book with plenty of danger, action, and more. Maddy and a group of scholarship students are at a nearby beach, a reward for hard work, when a group or mercenaries attempt to kidnap Maddy. Fueled by an email telling him of Maddy’s location Bran goes to visit, and interrupts the attempt. Fire fights, power plays, and deception are the words of the day as they struggle to get everyone out of there alive. The chemistry between Maddy and Bran is an added distraction, as is Brans past. A few moments of passion that could be much better timed and promises of no strings finally get the pair to talk, but with high stakes and everything on the line they might not be able to keep any promises. The action was intense, as was the danger. I had a few face palms when they decided to have alone time, not necessarily the best time for it, but when there is that much going on I guess you take what you can get. I really enjoyed the personalities and interactions of the secondary characters, and look forward to continuing the series to see what happens next.

Devil and the Deep is a high action, high emotion, edition to the world Walker has created in her interrelated romance series. If you are a fan of the Deep Six or Black Knights series you will enjoy this story.  

Book Review: Nightstruck by Jenna Black

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

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

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

Book Review: 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.

Book Review: Alpha Wolf Need Not Apply by Terry Spear

Alpha Wolf Need Not Apply is the latest romance by Terry Spear in the Silvertown Wolf series. Wolf shifter and park ranger Eric Silver is committed to his job policing spectacular San Isabel National Forest, and he’s hot on the scent of some mysterious wolves who are up to no good. When Eric’s investigation leads him to cross paths with forester Pepper Grayling, he’s fascinated to learn this she-wolf is her pack’s leader. She is strong, independent, and definitely not looking for a mate. With unknown dangers on the prowl, Pepper is tempted to give in to her attraction to Eric and align her pack with his. But Pepper’s been pursued by many an alpha male out to take over her pack and gain her hard-won territory, and Eric is a born leader. How does Eric earn the trust of a she-wolf who’s been betrayed so often in the past?

Alpha Wolf Need Not Apply is an interesting and fast paced read. Pepper is tired of defending her pack from make werewolves that think mating her is the easy way to take over her pack and territory. She has already lost one mate, and is just looking to do the best for the pack and herself. Eric is tracking werewolves that are using the National Park to grow weed and find their illegal activities. He runs across Pepper and her pack while hunting for the perpetrators and needs to continue his work, and make sure that Pepper’s pack is not part of the problem. Suspicion and guarded hearts on all sides, with the complication of Pepper’s unwanted suitor and the illegal activities in the forest make everything more interesting, but shared interests and teamwork save the day- both in the action and romance that are woven through the story. 

Alpha Wolf Need Not Apply is  a solid addition to the series, but works well as a stand alone book as well. It meets my expectations of quality and interest from the author. If you like Spear’s work. and paranormal romance with characters that are interesting and complex then get reading.

Book Review: Magic Fell by Andi Van

Magic Fell by Andi Van is a fantasy novel that will appeal to the young adult, new adult, and adult audience. Magic has been missing from the world for a millennium, and it’s needed now more than ever. But in a culture where arcane power is forbidden and practitioners are executed, Tasis will have to keep his own aptitude for magic secret. With nothing to direct them besides bizarre dreams and a mysterious cat, Tasis and his sister Zaree undertake a quest to discover the hidden island that was once home to the guild. Kelwin Tiovolk departs his village following his mentor’s suggestion. As an elf wandering into human civilization, he’s in danger simply for being who he is. A brawl at an inn leads him straight into the path of the young man he’s been dreaming about, and he’s compelled to help Tasis and his sister any way he can. Together, the trio might have a chance of accomplishing their mission, or the attempt might kill them.

Magic Fell is a wonderful introduction to a fantasy world. The world is one that has faced war and conflict, resulting in a fear of magic and all thing different. Tasis has magic, and is different from those around him in many ways but is a good hearted person that wants to honor his mother's life and be a good person. Zaree is his sister in every way but blood, though she is different from those around them as well, although she goes through great strides to keep her secrets. Kelwin is an elf on a quest to learn more from the world, and to figure out his crazy dreams. When Tasis and Zaree meet up with Kelwin the adventure really begins. I like that there is a noble quest, and plenty of action and danger to keep readers eager to see just what is going to happen next. I liked that many different kinds of love were addressed, the complicated love of family (both by blood and by choice) as well as he start of romantic and friendship based love. I loved how matter of factly everyone's preferences and identities are handled and accepted, and the way conflicts are presented. The fear and hate that some have for anything or anyone they cannot (or refuse to) understand is something that is extremely relevant now. 

Magic Fell is a wonderful fantasy novel with complex characters and high action. The only people I would not recommend this read to are those that are not open minded about sexuality and gender identity. These are issues that come up in the book (and frankly are handled perfectly), so those that cannot accept people and relationships that fall outside preconceived idea will want to pass. 

Book Review: All Hallows Moon by S.M. Reine

All Hallows Moon by S.M. Reine is the second book in the Seasons of the Moon series, which is four books long and complete. If you have not read the previous books, do not start here. If you liked the first book, then you are going to want to read this one as well.

Rylie survived becoming a werewolf at great cost. She moves to her aunt’s ranch in the hopes she can enroll in a new high school and quietly continue her life with a few distinct changes. She transforms into a beast every new and full moon and struggles to control her murderous urges. A family of hunters -- Eleanor, Abel, and Seth -- recognize the signs and follow Rylie to her new home. They want to stop her before she murders someone, and the only way to do it is with a silver bullet. Seth soon realizes the werewolf is Rylie, the one monster he failed to kill. Worse yet, he’s still in love with her. Torn between family and love, Rylie struggles to reconcile her feelings and control the wolf within while Seth fights to do what’s right. But what is right-- obeying desire or duty?

All Hallows Moon adds some serious character development to the quartet of book. Rylie is trying to control her new furry side, and dealing with the joy that is moving to a new town when you already have some serious trust issues. I liked getting to see more of Seth’s family, and the dynamics that have made Seth and Abel who they are. I think the most impressive, and important, part of the series is that while the connection and potential romance between Seth and Rylie is definitely there it does not take precedence. The character development and action are much more important that the romance, which makes me happy in any urban fantasy style of writing.

All Hallows Moon is a solid addition to the larger storyline. It read very quickly, but I did not count pages so I am unsure if it was shorter than the first, or if it was just one of those books that is over before the reader is ready to let go. I will say that it made it much easier to keep reading and dive right into there third book in the series.

Book Review: Cast in Angelfire by S.M. Reine

Cast in Angelfire by S.M. Reine is the first book in the Mage Craft series. Newcomers to Reines work might be able to catch up with this new series, but I have not finished reading all the previous series, and feel like what I had read gave me big clues. If I had caught up before starting this book I feel like I would have enjoyed it even more. So, I would suggest either starting fresh here, or reading everything else first.

Eighteen-year-old Marion can’t remember anything before waking up in the hospital. All she knows that a lot of people want to kill her. She quickly has to come to terms with the fact that her would-be assassins are not human. Vampires, faeries, and angels and real and they all want Marion dead. Marion turns to Lucas Flynn: a mysterious doctor who seems to know more than he’s letting on. He is as good with a gun as he is with a scalpel. He fights like a demon but claims that he’s human. And he’s hellbent on protecting Marion. Lucas claims that Marion is a mage: half-witch, half-angel with terrifying powers that could crack the world. But Marion can’t remember how to cast magic any more than she can remember where she comes from. Marion must find her identity and her power…before the forgotten sins of her past catch up with her.

Cast in Angelfire was really well done. I liked the dynamic of Marion not knowing anything, which made it easier to catch up to were the world the book takes place in. I liked that we got to explore the world, characters, and Marion herself right along side her. There are multiple points of view used in the storytelling, but it worked well here, giving readers a better view of the bigger picture. My only complaint is common with just about any book aimed at the young or new adult novel. There is a leaning towards a love triangle, though it is never firmly set into play. I could really do without that, or the possessive boyfriend troupe. However, that and the reordering of my reading pile are my only real issues here, which are small problems as far as I am concerned.

Cast in Angelfire was awesome, but also made me realize how far behind I was in the world that Reine has created. I really enjoyed the story, and the glimpses of what characters and bits I already knew from other books. It was a really gripping read, with mystery and character development that I look forward to following.