Book Review: A Study in Silks by Emma Jane Holloway

A Study in Silks is the first book in The Baskerville Affair series by Emma Jane Holloway. Evelina Cooper is the niece of Sherlock Holmes and is staying with a good friend as they prepare for their first London Season.  However, a murderer, missing automatons, a sorcerer, a visit from part of her past life, and a talking mouse complicate matters. This Victorian era is ruled by a ruthless steam baron council, with mechanical power as the real monarch, and magic is considered the enemy of the empire. Evelina has a touch of magic and has secretly mastered a coveted weapon, magic that can run machines. Can she trust the clever rake that is her best friends brother the dashing performer from her past who would do anything she asked?

A Study in Silks has elements of magic, history, and mystery. I enjoyed the characters and the danger that seemed around every corner, but felt that it  had some very slow moments. Evelina is an unconventional girl, loving to tinker and have a special talent for magic, which is forbidden and feared. She had a very different childhood than most, and has a keen mind and set of unshakable standards because of it. Nick is a part of her past and part of the sad little love triangle, and her best friend's brother is the other piece of that puzzle. There is intrigue, magic, murder, mayhem, murder, and politics. I enjoyed the characters and the variety of twists and connections through out the book.

I have had this young adult steampunk novel in my Kindle queue for awhile. As I read it, I feel like I must have started it before because it felt familiar, but it was not until I looked at the length that I realized why I kept putting it off. It is long, quite long. I think it was a bit longer than was needed, but I could not say what should have been cut, or where it could have been concluded and picked back up as a second book, which is probably why the author and editors left it as a whole. As I read there continued to be moments where I wondered if I really had read this before, bits seemed very familiar but I could never put my finger on why.

A Study in Silks is something that I would recommend to those that love steampunk and magic. However, not to those with short attention spans. This book is long and slowly paced for the most part, but the character details and world building is very involved and that length seems necessary for the depth of detail. By the time i reached the end I was eager to read what happens in the next book, so this series starter does do its job, as long as readers stick with it. I just might pick up the next one, particularly since the work of world building and set up is done.

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: The Runaway Highlander by R.L. Syme

The Runaway Highlander is the second book in the Highland Renegades series by R.L. Syme. Anne de Cheyne has a choice, but not much of one. She can play the dutiful daughter and allow her mother to sell her to a greasy English sheriff, or she can take control of her own life and find her own future. After a frightening run-in with her promised husband reveals a dark secret, she must find a way to save herself and her sister from a horrible future. Aedan Donne needs money and fast. Working for the English sheriff is not what he wants to do, but it will allow him to save his sister and be free. But when an attempted escape and Anne's bid for freedom go awry he has to make a choice that could destroy lives. can he find a way to save everyone that he cares for or will his desire for the runaway Highland lady destroy them all?

The Runaway Highlander is a historical romance that shows just how little power people have had over their own lives. Anne de Cheyne is seen as nothing more than her mother's pawn and a possession to be bought. The sheriff that her mother is currently courting and plotting to sell her daughter to as a bride is unpleasant in just about every regard. He promises a violent and brutal life for Anne, and her vulnerable sister, should the marriage take place. Discovering that her childhood sweetheart and his compatriots are in the sheriff's dungeons, most brought there by a man that has caught her attention, she plots to change her future. She is willing to risk everything to protect her sister, and has little thought of her own safety in comparison. She is strong, smart, and selfless. Like Anne, Aedan is putting himself in harms way to help a sister. His actions are honorable, even though he does not work for those that are. I loved his strength and dedication to doing the right thing, even when it is far from the easy thing. I did think that the final third of the book was a bit draggy and perhaps unnecessary, but it did add an extra element of realism to the story. 

The Runaway Highlander is a solid romance. The characters were wonderful and multidimensional, and even though i did not read the first book in the series I did not feel left behind. I was not thrilled with the final chapters, but the height drama of the middle was nearly perfect. I wish the book was consistently good, as some parts were absolutely fantastic but others left me feeling a little bored or let down. 

Trigger warning; the book has some sexual violence and threats thereof.

 

Early Book Review: The Importance of Being Alice by Katie MacAlister

The Importance of Being Alice by Katie MacAlister is the first book in the Ainslie Brothers series. It is currently scheduled for publication on January 6th 2015. Nothing about Alice Wood’s life is normal right now. Her fiancé, Patrick, called off their wedding and relationship only days before their nonrefundable wedding trip. And though a luxurious European river cruise for one is just what she needs, it is not quite what she gets. Because of a horrible misunderstanding, Alice is now cramped in her “romantic” suite with one of Patrick’s friends. Instead of cruising along the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers sipping champagne with the love of her life, she’s navigating the waters with a strange, yet mysteriously handsome, British aristocrat. Elliot is an author, that also happens to be a Baron with a passel of siblings and unusual mother, looking for some alone time to write. But his stodgy, serious self is about to be sidetracked by a woman who seems to have jumped out of the pages of a fairy tale, one who is determined to shake up his life and include him in her own happily ever after.

The Importance of Being Alice brings me back to why I fell in love with MacAlister's writing to begin with. Alice is a smart but impulsive characters with an ability to talk and be witty practically non stop. Elliot is a very intelligent and responsible man that does everything he can to take care of his family even when he feels taken advantage of or particularly put-upon. There is suspicion, and some misunderstanding to be sure, but their banter and good natures just make the story so much fun. I laughed and snickered out loud several times while reading, which would make my daughter ask me what was so funny. I could only answer her half the time, because some of the seriously funny bits were not appropriate for my six year old’s ears. This book holds everything good I have ever found in MacAlister’s work, and has made me very eager to see what lies in store for Elliot’s brothers as the series continues.

I will admit that the love I have of MacAlister had faded a bit recently. The dragon series has lost its shine for me. But, The Importance of Being Alice brings me back to the serious love of her humor and quirky characters that I had years ago. It you like humor with your romance, quirky characters that you wish you were friends with, and quick adventure in your reading then you better add this book (and series) to your TBR list. Seriously- so happy with this book! I cannot wait to read the second book, A Midsummer’s Night Romp, when it is released in May of 2015.

Book Review: The Rake's Handbook: Including Field Guide by Sally Orr

The Rake's Handbook: Including Field Guide is the first book in The Rake's Handbook series by Sally Orr. The Rake’s Handbook was written on a dare, and soon took the ton by storm.  Ross Thornbury once wrote a book with two of his friends on a dare. Now he is said to be a rake of the worst sort. Unfortunately, Ross’s notoriety is working against him and he flees London painfully aware of the shortcomings of his own jaded heart. He throws himself into his business ventures and finds himself thwarted and fascinated by his neighbor.  Elinor Colton has always been viewed as too spirited for her own good. As a young widow her independent ways do not help do not help her social standing. She is warned of his reputation and business plans that might put her home in harms way. Elinor is sure she is immune to Ross’s seductive ways, but he keeps coming around and impressing her with his vision for England’s future and stunning her with his smiles.

The Rake’s Handbook is a well done historical romance. It starts a new series, and introduces a number of characters I expect to see again in the subsequent books. Elinor is a strong female character, but still full of a certain innocence and wonder even after being a window and raising her sister's son. I was a wee bit disappointed that she did not see through the men in her life being interested in more than offering support and advise, but I relegate that to her being a bit too trusting and naive. Ross is an honorable man, despite the reputation he carries. He wants to support his mother and do right by her, even when it makes him miserable. I liked his honest nature and teasing wit. The conversations between Elinor and Ross were fun and full of teasing and charming humor. Even when I found myself annoyed with Elinor's complacency, I was quickly made happy again as soon as the two started their banter.

The Rake’s Handbook is a good, but not great romance. I liked the characters for the most part, though I found myself occasionally frustrated with Elinor. The wit and action of the book kept up at a good pace and made for a quick, fun read. 

 

Cover Reveal: Hark: A Christmas Collection By Justin Bog

Hark: A Christmas Collection By Justin Bog

Book Description:

A beautifully written collection of short stories from critically acclaimed Pacific Northwest writer Justin Bog, Hark explores the range of emotions surrounding the holidays. From melancholy to madness, loss and despair to hope and forgiveness, these six tales shimmer with feelings, some we'd rather stuff away, that Christmas can evoke.

Set in colorful locations around the United States, from Anacortes, Washington, to Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Sun Valley, Idaho, each tale focuses on people who struggle to make good choices, learn lessons, and maybe even find peace during the holiday season.

A bonus story, Poseidon Eyes, from Booktrope's upcoming reissue of Sandcastle and Other Stories; The Complete Edition, is included.

Add Hark: A Christmas Collection to your Goodreads Want To Read list: http://bit.ly/1A2jyoe

Book Review: How to Roll Like Chris P. Bacon by Len Lucero

How to Roll Like Chris P. Bacon by Len Lucero is the second book about the plucky little pig that was born with malformed hind legs but taken in by a veterinarian and trained to walk with a special cart. Little Chris P. Bacon is cheerful in the face of adversity and lives with gusto. He curiosity and supportive family make this series an inspiring and fun read. This installment encourages readers to live life with the openness and cheerfulness that is evident in my favorite little piglet. 

How to Roll Like Chris P. Bacon is a charming and inspirational book that encourages readers to face each day with courage and joy. Taking chances, doing new things, and being a good friend are the key elements to the suggestions in the book. The pictures of Bacon’s adventure and the cartoon like illustrations add a charm and sense of fun to the book. I felt a bit like the grinch reading the book, with my heart growing three sizes as I read. It was sweet, inspirational, and heart warming. 

How to Roll Like Chris P. Bacon is a sweet follow up to the first book, but does not hold the same power. I would suggest the book for fans of Chris P. Bacon. It is heart warming and gave me a nice warm feeling as I read.

Early Book Review: Mr Squirrel & the Moon by Sebastian Meschenmoser

Mr Squirrel & the Moon by Sebastian Meschenmoser is a picturebook currently schedule for release on January 1 2015. When Mr. Squirrel awakens to find that the moon has landed on his tree, he frantically tries to get rid of it before someone suspects him of stealing it and puts him in jail. But when he rolls the moon off of his tree, it's gets stuck on Mrs. Hedgehog's bristles and when the billy-goat arrives and butts it with his horns , and so on. Will the moon ever be the same again?

Mr Squirrel & the Moon opens with a wheel of cheese escaping a cart, and quickly the action and concern of Mr. Squirrel begins. Worried about being accused of theft, complete with illustrations for what he thinks life in prison would be like for him, Mr. Squirrel does everything he can to return the 'moon' to its proper place. I really liked that the characters look out for each other and work together rather than leaving the next implicated critter to take the fall. A fun and entertaining book with illustrations that bring the story to life.

I would recommend Mr Squirrel & the Moon to picturebook fans of all ages. while the story is a little silly, a wheel of cheese thought to be a stolen moon and images of critters in prison garb and a shared cell, at no point does it come off as cartoony. It is subtle and will draw in readers of all ages.

Top Five Blogs by Fantasy Authors: Real Life from Those that Give Us Fantasy

Blogs are a great way for authors to keep fans and interested parties up to date with their current projects, industry information and any pieces of their personal life that they are willing to share. This is an essential tool for staying in touch with the people that buy their books, so they can keep their audience satisfied. Here are some blogs from fantasy authors that do a fantastic job in informing and entertaining their audience.

My particular favorite is Neil Gaiman. He blogs about author events as well as what he is currently doing on both a personal and professional level. He even offers a message board which he actively participates in, links, downloads and video clips either about him or that he thinks will interest his fans. He really makes it evident that he values the people that appreciate his work and seems to be a genuine and nice person.

Another author that keeps their fans informed with tidbits from both professional and personal life is C.E Murphy. As a fellow mother, I find her day-to-day life as entertaining as her posts about her writing, though I am eagerly awaiting her next release. Maybe it is just the joy of knowing that everyone has the same kind of crazy moments with a new baby in the house, trying to loose the related weight, and still trying to be a productive member of society that makes me love her Livejournal entries.

Piers Anthony keeps a blog like newsletter, so I am including it since he does update regularly and allows access to past entries. He talks about his daily life, the books he is reading and his professional life. I find it interesting to read his perspective and unique voice as he describes news and life as well as his opinions on both.

Richelle Mead keeps her fans updated through Livejournal. Her updates are generally about her professional life, book tours, release dates and signings. However, her in depth description of the event are great, and she has an obvious appreciation for the fans that make it all possible.

Caitlin P. Kiernan is another Livejournal user. She keeps fans up to date with a balance of personal and business information. There are a fair number of posts about news and information that the author just found interested or wants to share with her readers. Her varying user icons and images she places in some of her posts are worth a look.

There are many other authors from this genre that blog, but due to the format, style or lack of frequent updates simply did not make my top five. An example is Laurell K Hamilton's blog. I love her sense of humor and read her Facebook posts and the content of her blog would be worth a look, but I am simply not fond of having to scroll an embedded window to read blog posts.

Book Review: Chernobyl's Wild Kingdom by Rebecca L. Johnson

Chernobyl's Wild Kingdom is a children's non fiction book by Rebecca L. Johnson. Early on April 26, 1986, Nuclear Reactor Number 4 at the Chernobyl power plant in northern Ukraine exploded. Within minutes, deadly radioactive fallout was raining down on the region, sweeping into southern Belarus and southwestern Russia. Pripyat, Ukraine, the city nearest the plant, was evacuated the next day. Almost three decades later, it is still a radioactive ghost town. Most people, including many scientists, assumed that the Zone would remain a barren wasteland for a very long time. But that's not what happened. To almost everyone's surprise, life in the Zone wasn't extinguished at all. In fact, in the decades since the nuclear disaster, Chernobyl's Exclusion Zone has become a green, thickly forested landscape. Wild boars, deer, elk, moose, foxes, bears, badgers, and several dozen wolf packs make their home there. So do insects, amphibians, reptiles, and hundreds of species of birds.

In Chernobyl's Wild Kingdom readers are introduced to a cast of international scientists investigating the Zone's wildlife. We see how the disaster happened and how it was handled in the hours, days, and weeks that followed. The speed and severity of the disaster is frankly frightening, and the rebound make by nature is amazing. The information about the wildlife that seems to be thriving in an environment that would kill humans leaves me hope that even if we continue to destroy what we have, innocent animals and organisms might still find a way to survive, and hopefully prosper. The Bank Voles and other small rodents have been extensively tested, and there are controversial theories that could answer the questions of how these little critters are thriving rather than mutating and dying. While there are animals, trees, and plants that seem to be mutation free, there are also a number of creatures showing a variety of mutations and changes. There are many answers here in this volume, and many new questions to be answered. There are lessons  we can learn from the events and aftermath at Chernobyl, some of which can apply to the more recent nuclear disaster at Fukushima, Japan, and to the globe's nuclear-energy future.

Chernobyl's Wild Kingdom is a well written and informative read. The events and aftermath of the disaster are terrifying and hold many secrets and opportunities for answers. The discoveries scientist have made there, and with the animals from there, can help us understand the ramifications of nuclear power and weapons, as well as how our use and care of them can effect the planet and all living things.