Book Review: Hold Tight (For You) by Alexa Riley

Hold Tight is the second installment in the For You series by Alexa Riley. I have not read the first book in this series, but I have read other books by the author and found that each book can be enjoyed on its own, but reading them in order does give a better sense of the main characters and how they interact.

 

A hotshot consultant hired to streamline Osbourne Corp. meets his match in Pandora Justice—the more she plays hard to get, the more he wants her.  Pandora Justice took over as head of security at Osbourne Corp. after her father's retirement. Eighty-hour workweeks are normal; being brushed up against by hot consultants with ridiculous names is not. And she doesn't like it. Not even one bit.  The first time Pandora sees Royce in the ring—all tattoos and sinew, covered in sweat—he looks at her like he's just won more than the fight. Like he won her.  Royce's cocky grin with deep dimples makes Pandora melt. Once she wanted to smack that look off his face—now all she wants to do is kiss it. For the rest of her life.  

Hold Tight is a quick, contemporary romance. I like that I had read a previous book where Pandora's parents meet so I already knew about the family, their personalities, and long standing family dynamics- however newcomers will not suffer for the loss of information. I liked that Pandora is a strong, hard working woman and an alpha in her own right. I like her work effort and transparency as to what she wants from the world. I also like her hidden vulnerabilities, her fear of getting hurt and how she tries to protect herself, even on an unconscious level. I also like that while Royce is a strong, confident man he give her the space that she needs to figure out what she wants. Even though he might want to push the issue, and occasionally veers into the stalker zone, he never pushes her so far that she feels the pressure. I did find the physical attraction and parts of the relationship to be a little over the top, but it was still a fast, fun read that gave me almost exactly what I expected from the author.

Hold Tight is a short, quick read. Fans of Riley will recognize and enjoy the writing style, and get more of what they are looking for. I found Royce to be less of the stalker, domineering male than her other books- which I counted as a good thing- but this is still very much about an alpha male falling for a strong woman. 

Book Review: I am Bat by Morag Hood

I am Bat by Morag Hood is a picturebook about a bat who is a little grumpy, and very protective of his cherries. When they start going missing the bat searches for the thief, even blaming the reader. As he searches he discovers that cherries are not the only delicious fruit available. 

I am Bat is a cute picturebook about a grumpy little bat afraid that his favorite foods will disappear. When he finds cherries gone he is desperate to find the cherries, and the culprit. I loved his reluctant admission that he likes pears too, when that option appears. The art is simply but bold, and reminds me of the art on Gravett's picturebooks (which is a good thing). It is a short, simply, fun read that plays well for a short read aloud while being simple enough for independent reading for the littles as well. 

Book Review: Blood Gamble (Disrupted Magic) by Melissa F. Olson

Blood Gamble is the second book in the Disrupted Magic series by Melissa F. Olson, which is an offshoot of the Scarlett Bernard series. I highly recommend reading all of the two series in order, but to be honest I love the author so I recommend reading all of her books period. 

If there is one city that Scarlett Bernard hates, it’s Las Vegas. But when the cardinal vampire of Los Angeles convinces her to go investigate a new vampire-themed stage show, Scarlett quickly finds herself shoulder-deep in sequins, slot machines, and Old World intrigue. The show’s creators are vampire celebrities Arthur and Lucy Holmwood, who once inspired characters from the original Dracula. Now, however, they have no qualms about announcing their true status to the human world, endangering the secrecy of the Old World and Scarlett’s mission to keep it hidden. But before she can begin untangling the Holmwoods’ motives, Scarlett also discovers that their new production has attracted more than just fans: Las Vegas’s many vampires are suddenly disappearing, and rumors are flying that actual vampire hunters may have followed Arthur and Lucy to town. Now, without her allies, her bargest, or her frequent partner Jesse Cruz, Scarlett must navigate a new underworld of secrets and murders in a city where nothing is ever as it seems. And the stakes have never been higher.

Blood Gamble is a fast and furious addition to Scarlett's story. She is facing huge odds, yet again, and deals with crisis on physical and emotional fronts. Again, I loved her journey of personal and work related discovery, and her drive to protect those around her even if they might not need her protection. I think her drive for information and the conflicts and betrayals that thread through the story kept me turning pages and eager to see how her reunion with another Null goes, and how the story of Lucy and Arthur will play out. I loved the addition of the fact Scarlett is in a city she hates, and that she is trying to guard the secret of her real job while doing it and keeping her family and friends safe.  So much is going on that I think the reader can see what is coming easier than Scarlett, only because we are a step back, but oh what a ride. I enjoyed every agonizing or life and death moment. Oh, and the changing dynamics with Dashnell, and how Jesse gives Scarlett and the readers perspective on the whole thing- so good. I found the final twist to be one I had been holding my breath for, and oddly anticipating. I am eager to see where the series takes us next.

Blood Gamble is another great urban fantasy, and I was left stunned at the end. I cannot wait for what ever comes next. Seriously, I need the next book now. 

Book Review: Under-the-Bed Fred by Linda Bailey

Under-the-Bed Fred is a transitional chapterbook written by Linda Bailey and illustrated by Colin Jack. This is perfect for those readers moving beyond picturebooks and branching into more challenging reads. It is broken into a few smaller stories, so it is not overwhelming to readers that might still be intimidated by chapter books.

There's a monster under Leo's bed making a ruckus every night. When Leo needs to go to the bathroom, he leaps from the bed to the door -- careful not to put his feet on the floor within the monster's reach. But one night Leo gets tired of being scared and boldly calls out to the monster to see if they can't just work something out. Surprisingly, the monster listens, and Leo finds out that even enormous monsters have fears! Leo and his monster, Fred, team up to face their fears, each with his own unique strengths. Over the course of five easy-to-read chapters, their friendship blooms as they face everything from bullies to bedbugs.

Under-the-Bed Fred is a fun book for independent readers, and for sharing. I like that Leo faces his fears, and learns something about prejudice and friendship. I found Fred to be a cute and imaginative creature, making the story fun. Leo has real kid problems, and some fears shared by most children at some point. I liked his persistence and patience with Fred- and thought that the exasperation he feels towards Fred at times mirrors what adults and older sibling might feel when the target audience gives into the fears Leo faces. I think this book could help young readers  face monster fears, and dealing with the stresses of bullies and school. The illustrations add a nice touch to the story, adding emotion and additional fun to the read.

Book Review: On the Chase (Rocky Mountain K-9 Unit) by Katie Ruggle

On the Chase is the second book in the Rocky Mountain K-9 Unit series by Katie Ruggle. The first book was Run to Ground. While each book can be enjoyed on its own, I think the character information that is carried from one book to the next enhances the read, and that fans of the series will get more out of the experience, but that new comers can enjoy the read too.

The sole witness to a horrific crime, Kaylee Ramay flees to the Colorado Rockies to start a new life. There she becomes Grace, a dog kennel employee desperately trying to avoid attention, especially from dangerously attractive K9 Officer Hugh Murdoch. Because Hugh is tall, dark, and nothing but trouble. Hugh is anxious to get back in the field after an act of heroism left him warming the bench. Until then, he and his K9 partner Lexi spend their hours teasing the town's mysterious newcomer. But when their simmering attraction is nearly cut short by a sniper's bullet, Hugh's mystery woman must come clean about the secrets she keeps, or both of them will pay the price.

On the Chase is a good contemporary romance with the suspense twist. I liked Kaylee's character for the most part, but I occasionally found her to fall a little flat. The start of this show was Hugh, he is a great character with humor and strength. I liked his pragmatism and attempts to save everyone while still sidelined from his last round of being a hero. I found their romance itself to be a little understated, it just kind of happened, but the danger and suspense aspects of the story were constant. I liked that it was coming from all sides, and that there were twists that I did not expect. I enjoyed the read, but have to admit that I was not as emotional involved in the romance of the book as I expected, but will keep on reading to see where the larger story arch takes the small town our endangered characters are taking cover in.

On the Chase is a solid addition to the series, and left me satisfied with the story, but wanting the next installment. While I enjoyed the first book more than this one, I fully expect the next book to be even better and will keep on reading. 

Book Review: Rapunzel by Bethan Woollvin

Rapunzel by Bethan Woollvin is an interesting take on the classic tale.The wicked witch has Rapunzel trapped, but not for long! Rapunzel lives all alone in a tall, dark tower. Under the threat of a witch's fearsome curse, the poor girl seems doomed to a life in captivity. But is Rapunzel frightened? Oh no, not she!

Rapunzel is a twist on the classic tale, having Rapunzel quicker to find her spunk than most versions of the story, and taking bigger risks. The art is stylized, a little too much for my tastes but I think it will appeal to many parent and young readers. I like that Rapunzel does not need a prince or any encouragement to want more, although she does form friendships. I think it was fun, and an entertaining read. It was quirky and will appeal, but it just did not wow me. 

Book Review: Brooklyn's Sweet Ruin: Relics and Stories of the Domino Sugar Refinery by Paul Raphaelson

Brooklyn's Sweet Ruin: Relics and Stories of the Domino Sugar Refinery by Paul Raphaelson tells the story of what was once the largest in the world, shut down in 2004 after a long struggle. Most New Yorkers know it only as an icon on the landscape, multiplied on T-shirts and skateboard graphics. Paul Raphaelson, known internationally for his formally intricate urban landscape photographs, was given access to every square foot of the refinery weeks before its demolition. Raphaelson spent weeks speaking with former Domino workers to hear first-hand the refinery’s more personal stories. He also assembled a world-class team of contributors: Pulitzer Prize–winning photography editor Stella Kramer, architectural historian Matthew Postal, and art director Christopher Truch. The result is a beautiful, complex, thrilling mashup of art, document, industrial history, and Brooklyn visual culture. Strap on your hard hat and headlamp, and wander inside for a closer look.

Brooklyn's Sweet Ruin: Relics and Stories of the Domino Sugar Refinery is a look at something I had never thought much about, even though I am well versed in the state of manufacturing in my local area. The Domino sugar factory, abandoned and in disrepair is something haunting to look at. I was very interested in the information about the factory and the struggles to keep it afloat, and the perspective of those directly involved in the factory. The idea that the building was set for destruction is sad, but the state of it and the empty rooms was simply depressing, but still somehow beautiful. The combination of photography and information is poignant and enthralling. It offers readers a look at the history and importance of the building and former business. The book is a great coffee table book for those that appreciate industrial art, and the stark beauty that can be found in these images of this factory after being abandoned, but before demolition. 

Book Review: Gracie LaRoo at Pig Jubilee by Marsha Qualey, Kristyna Litten

Gracie La Roo at Pig Jubilee written by Marsha Qualey and illustrated by Kristyna Litten is an advanced easy reader or beginner chapterbook- depending on how you look at it. Gracie LaRoo is the youngest pig to make it to the Pig Jubilee in synchronized swimming. As the star of her team, the Water Sprites, the pressure is on! But Gracie can't seem to concentrate and land her signature move-the one sure to lead them to victory. Gracie has to find a way to get her concentration back, find her confidence, and land the move to bring home the gold medal and to make her team proud.

Gracie LaRoo at Pig Jubilee is a sweet collection of  stories about a little pig trying to find her way. She learns about concentration, confidence, and being true to herself. She gets to learn about teamwork and patience as well, all while she does something she loves- swimming. Her practice, performing, and imperfections make her a characters that readers can relate to, empathize with, and learn with. The art work and stories remind me a little of Olivia- both in lessons learned and the fact that they are pigs. The art is lovely, and the emotion and captured in the illustrations help bring the story alike, and get the reader more involved in Gracie's struggles. I like that she makes mistakes, but still does her best and works to fix them.

Gracie LaRoo at Pig Jubilee is a good read with valuable lessons. I love a children's book that gets these lessons across to young readers without feeling pushy or preachy, which can be hard to do. This book does that, and entertains readers at the same time.

Book Review: The Broken Duke (1797 Club) by Jess Michaels

The Broken Duke is third book in the 1797 Club series by Jess Michaels. I have not read any of the other books in this series, and while I think those that have read the other books will have a better knowledge of the characters and important events from the past, I think that newcomers will be able to enjoy the story without feeling the lack. 

Adelaide Longford is London’s most overlooked bluestocking wallflower and that is fine by her. Being ignored gives her the perfect opportunity to sneak out and secretly take on the persona of the most celebrated actress of the day, Lydia Ford. The thrill of walking the boards and hearing the applause of those who watch her is the most exciting experience of her life. That is until Graham Everly, Duke of Northfield comes into her life. He is broken after the humiliating loss of his longtime fiance to his supposed best friend and they enter into a lusty affair which sets her body on fire. Graham has no idea why he’s so attracted to both the bespectacled, prickly Adelaide and the passionate Lydia, but soon he is caught in a dance with them both and torn between which future he wants to pursue. When Graham finds out Adelaide’s secret identity will he be able to accept both parts of her? And will he be able to save her from a lurking danger that neither of them could have ever foreseen?

The Broken Duke is a historical romance with more layers than I was expecting. Both Adelaide and Graham have suffered from family abuse, and society's judgement and their own self judgement. I like the way they verbally spare with each other, being themselves even as they try to hide themselves. The interaction between the couple, and the important secondary characters, really made them come alive and made me care about them. I also like that the dangers of being a woman in the era (and to no small degree today) is so much a part of the story and that Graham becomes even more aware of it. So often the gender issues of the day are drought up in historical romance, but once the couple find their path that issue is lost in the background. Here, it is on the minds of characters throughout the book, and it looks like that is true through the series in general, judging by the characters and what they have been through.  I was also glad to see real problems, real friendships, and actual solutions to problems rather than just letting things fade away once the happy couple finds their happy ever after. I also love that while there is plenty of steam and lust, there is also emotion and quality characters that are working to be better, not just to find someone to make them happy. 

The Broken Duke is an engaging and entertaining read. I think fans of Michaels, and those that love a layered historical romance in general, will enjoy and appreciate the read. I am tempted to go back and read the previous books, and I very much want to read the next book in the series. Those that are abuse survivors might find some of the book hard to read.

Early Book Review: CiCi's Journal: The Adventures of a Writer-in-Training by Joris Chamblain

CiCi's Journal: The Adventures of a Writer-in-Training by Joris Chamblain is currently scheduled for release on November 7 2017. Cici dreams of being a novelist. Her favorite subject: people, especially adults. She’s been watching them and taking notes. Everybody has one special secret, Cici figures, and if you want to write about people, you need to understand what’s hiding inside them. But now she’s discovered something truly strange: an old man who disappears into the forest every Sunday with huge pots of paint in all sorts of colors. What is he up to? Why does he look so sad when he comes back? In a graphic novel format; interwoven with journal notes, scrapbook pieces, and doodles, Cici assembles clues about the odd and wonderful people she’s uncovered, even as she struggles to understand the mundane: her family and friends.

CiCi's Journal: The Adventures of a Writer-in-Training is part graphic novel and part journal style novel. I think that this combination, along with the solid character work by Chamblain will make this a fun read for middle grade and older readers. Cici is a girl on a mission, she want to learn everything she can about other people's secrets because it will help her learn how to write about people better. I like that she has to deal with friend and family issues, and that most of them feel completely authentic. I enjoyed the mysteries that she solves, and that while she might complicate her relationships in the process, she works to make them better and still grow as a person, and a friend. Her fears, and need to ferret out the hidden details of the world around her spoke to me, a stubborn researcher that cannot let go of a question until I find an answer. I think the art style is lovely, although some of the pages did not come over correctly in the digital galley I read, so I assume that the final version reads even better than the copy I read. This was a great read all around, and I think it will find a dedicated fan base. I only fear for the parents and teachers that will deal with readers that might start emulating Cici's detecting drive, but am hopeful for those that might take the idea of writing themselves to heart. 

CiCi's Journal: The Adventures of a Writer-in-Training is a book that made me smile. It reminded me of Harriet the Spy in the best of ways, and still felt new and fresh. I think this will appeal to a number of readers.