Book Review: Otherworld Nights by Kelley Armstrong

Otherworld Nights by Kelley Armstrong  is the third volume of collected short stories in the Otherworld series. It includes brand-new tales, some that had only previously available on Kelley Armstrong's website, and a few that had been published in previous anthologies. Most of the stories will feature the werewolves of the Otherworld, Elena and Clay, Jeremy, Karl and other members of the American Pack. These are some of Kelley Armstrong's best-loved and most enduring characters, from bestselling books such as Bitten, Stolen and Frostbitten. The short stories included are: 

1) Demonology - Adam's mother discovers what he is
2) Stalked - Clay/Elena honeymoon story from "My Big Fat Supernatural Honeymoon"
3) Hidden - SubPress 2012 Elena/Clay novella
4) Twilight - a Cass story from "Many Bloody Returns"
5) Chivalrous - Reese's backstory from SubPress's long sold-out "Tales of Dark Fantasy 2" (the Dec'14 SubPress graphic novella picks up this storyline)
6) Lucifer's Daughter - Hope/Karl story from "Blood Lite II: Overbite"
7) From Russia with Love - Elena bonus story included with hardcover of "Thirteen"

8) Vanishing Act - brand-new Savannah/Adam novella set after "Thirteen" 

As a fan of all things Armstrong I was thrilled to see Otherworld Nights show up on Netgalley. I had read a few of the stories before, but it had been a while so I was glad to see them again If you follow the Otherworld series at all, you will be glad to see these in between bit that give us a better and unique look at some favorite characters. I was particularly glad to read Hidden, which was about Clay and Elena with their children. Vanishing Act was my other favorite oft he collection. All of the stories are solid, with some simply heart breaking (like Reese’s story in Chivalrous) while others just made me happy to get an extra glimpse into the lives of some great characters. 

I think Otherworld Nights is a must read for fans, even if you think you have read everything out there by Armstrong. I was glad to return to the world she has created and am looking forward to the next full novel I can get my hands on. 

Book Review: Werewolf in Alaska by Vicki Lewis Thompson

Werewolf in Alaska is the fifth book in the Wild About You series by Vicki Lewis Thompson. This is a series that does not need to be read in any real order or even as a series, each can stand on its own. It seems to be only the larger werewolf community, and the changes in it, that ties the stories together. In Polecat, Alaska, Rachel Miller and Jake Hunter have a mutual admiration for each other from across a lake. There’s nothing Rachel likes more than spying on the very fit wilderness guide when he skinny-dips each night. And Jake has always been curious about his reclusive artist neighbor. He even bought Rachel’s first wood carving: a wolf who looks suspiciously like him. Jake is a werewolf, and the founder of WARM (Werewolves Against Random Mating), which means a human like Rachel absolutely is off-limits. When Rachel is threatened by a bear, and Jake shifts to save her, their lives collide with an intense passion, one that could change everything they’ve ever felt about themselves, and each other.

Werewolf in Alaska is a fun read that had me happily turning pages. Rachel is an artist and enjoys her anonymity in the wilds of Alaska. She also enjoys using her binoculars to watch the very fit Jake skinny dip in the lake that separates them. It is only when Rachel’s safety is in question that Jake steps into her life, and risks his own secrets. The back and forth between the two is fabulous, I really enjoyed the humor of Rachel tending to the wolf’s wounds and the conversations it triggers. The inclusion of Rachel’s protective teenage assistant added to the complications and tension of the story. I liked how drastic the big climax was, though think some people gave in a wee bit too easily. All in all the read was great fun and I really enjoyed the interaction of the main characters. 

I would recommend Werewolf in Alaska to fans of Thompson, particularly those that are following this series. I was eager to see what would happen or be said next, and think it was a fun entertaining read.

Book Review: Game of Love by Melissa Foster

Game of Love is the tenth book in the Love in Bloom series and first in the Remingtons subseries by Melissa Foster. In the twenty-five years Ellie Parker been alive, Dex Remington has been the only person who has always believed in her and been there for her. But twice now she has left without saying goodbye. Dex Remington is one of the top PC game developers in the U.S. He’s handsome, smart, and so damn numb that he’s not sure he’ll ever find a reason to feel again. A chance encounter sparks intense desires in Ellie and Dex. Desires that make her want to run; and make him want to feel. A combination of lust and fear leads these young lovers down a dangerous path. Is it possible to cross a burned bridge or are they destined to be apart forever?

Game of Love was the first book in this series that I have read, and I had some mixed feelings on it. I will admit to reading the book because of the cover, I just liked the feel of the cover and then when I read the description I was hooked. I really enjoyed Dex's character, he was smart and strong willed but almost too good of a guy. I had some issues with Ellie. She had a very rough childhood, and understandably has some serious issues because of it. However, through the book she vacillates between being a flight risk and being perfectly fine. Again, this is not unusual because of her past, but I found the end a little too easy because of it. Dex was almost too perfect and definitely too willing to do literally everything and anything to keep Ellie with him. Moments of the book were wonderful, but others had me annoyed. As a whole I enjoyed it, and bought a few more books in the series immediately.

Game of Love was a solid contemporary romance and dealt with characters with significant issues. There were inner dialogue moments that got a little repetitive and the book was not perfect, but I still ended up hooked on the series and will be reading much more from Foster in the near future.

Book Review: Mortal Heart by Robin LaFevers

Mortal Heart is the third book in the His Fair Assassin series by Robin LaFevers. While technically you could read each of these as a stand alone, why would you? Each book is fantastic and the layering of the larger story arch cannot be fully appreciated without reading in order. (Can you tell I am a fan?)

In Mortal Heart we finally get to see Annith's thoughts and her part of the saga. Annith has watched her gifted sisters at the convent come and go, carrying out their dark dealings in the name of St. Mortain and patiently awaiting her own turn to serve Death. But her worst fears are realized when she discovers she is being groomed by the abbess as a Seeress, to be forever sequestered in the rock and stone womb of the convent. Feeling betrayed, Annith decides to strike out on her own. She has spent her whole life training to be an assassin. Just because the convent has changed its mind doesn't mean she or Mortain has.

In Mortal Heart I was thrilled to see Annith's story unfold. The look into her past and the conspiracies and betrayals that thread through the book are perfectly timed and woven into the story in a way that brings the entire trilogy together. I will admit that when Annith meets Bathazar I had a good idea of who he is, but that did not lessen my enjoyment of how everything unfolded and then came together. The action, character development, and character interaction just had me enthralled and happy throughout the entire book. I really did not want it to end, and was sad to leave the world of His Fair Assassin.

Mortal Heart is the perfect book for round out this trilogy, although I would dearly love to see more books from LaFevers about this world, and frankly i am going to go back and read the authors unrelated children's books as soon as I get a chance. I highly recommend this book, and this series which starts with Grave Mercy to everyone. Yes, everyone!! It is good for young adults, new adults, and adults.

Book Review: Private Affair by Rebecca York

Private Affair is the third book in the Rockfort Security series by Rebecca York. Model Olivia Winters knows that there is more to her friend's murder than the police believe. She returns to her childhood home after enlisting the help of private investigator Max Lyon. She has to face memories of her teen years in order to get to the bottom of the murder. max might be a PI now, but he is also a former police officer and graduate from the same high school. posing as an engaged couple they investigate what becomes a string of suspicious deaths and attacks. Soon Max and Olivia realize they're in too deep, but it is too late. They're getting close to the truth, each others secrets, and to giving into their attraction.

Private Affair, like the previous two books in this series, can stand on its own and has strong characters that hold true throughout the story. Olivia has been through a lot and still feels like an outsider and shuns the spotlight even though she makes her living in the public eye. more often than not she does what an authority figure suggests rather than taking risks. her insecurity irks me on occasion, but she steps up to the plate and stands up for herself and faces the demons from her past to prevent others from getting hurt. Max is a strong alpha male. he grew up on the wrong side of the tracks but has never worried much about fitting in. he does what he has to to survive, and defends those unable or unwilling to do so for themselves. I like that they knew each other in school, and the way they work together. There is plenty of give and take between the two, and some growth by Olivia. the suspense and mystery portion of the book is powerful and left me on edge most of the time. Even when I thought i had the answers i was unsure and eager to see how everything played out. this was not my favorite of the series, but it was still a decent read.

Private Affair was a solid read for a cold winter weekend. It was not my favorite of the series, or from this author, but i am still glad that I read it. I think fans of the series should read it to discover how the last partner of Rockfort Security gets his happy ending, and readers that love a suspense filled romance will enjoy the read. I was not a fan of Olivia, and I think that was what made me like this book less than the others.

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 and Giveaway: Jaguar Pride by Terry Spear

Read to the end of the review to enter a giveaway for my paper ARC copy of this book.

Jaguar Pride is the forth book in the Heart of the Jaguar series by Terry Spear. It is currently scheduled for release on February 3 2015. you do not have to have read the other books in the series to enjoy this book, they can each stand on their own. JAG Special Forces operatives like Melissa Overton and her partner, Huntley Anderson, are trained for the most dangerous missions in the harshest environments. They work well together, but try to keep it all business and get the job done as they protect their wild cousins. These jaguar shifters can handle any variable, but what about babies? When Huntley and Melissa find two jaguar shifter cubs snoozing in their jungle hut while on assignment, they have to keep the cubs and each other safe from ruthless poachers, bringing these partners closer in ways they never expected.

This description does not do Jaguar Pride justice. While Melissa and Huntley are jaguar shifters and elite special agents, they have even more complications to their lives than this little window into the story offers. They are both honorable people with intelligence and an affinity to the wild. They each start the story involved in other relationships, which adds a reluctance on both their parts to getting together. Professionalism and the addition to two little jaguar cubs while hunting poachers in the jungle makes things more complicated and potent for both of them.

Jaguar Pride is a solid and entertaining read. The characters are good and there is plenty of action and suspense to keep readers guessing. I think that there is an almost too easy acceptance of the relationship as long term by both Melissa and Huntley by the end of the book, especially considering the complications they encounter. However, since they did know each other for a time before the book picks up I can dismiss it and blame their previous friendship.

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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.

Blog Tour Spotlight: The Boy Who Couldn't Cry Wolf by Caldric Blackwell

SYNOPSIS

Six-year-old Byron Woodward is a werewolf who can’t howl. Determined not to embarrass himself after being chosen to lead a full-moon ceremony, he embarks on a mission to learn how to howl. He learns a lot about howling during his journey, but more importantly, he learns a valuable lesson about believing in himself.

Where to Purchase The Boy Who Couldn't Cry Wolf

Amazon - Kindle
Amazon - Paperback
Barnes & Noble

*Borrow free with Kindle Unlimited & Amazon Prime*

THE AUTHOR

Caldric's Website /  Twitter / Goodreads / Facebook 

Caldric Blackwell realized he loved reading when he read about a bunch of people (with single-syllable names) and their pets (also with single-syllable names) in kindergarten.

Exposure to a host of great authors while studying at the University of California, Santa Barbara inspired him to begin writing fiction. Although he began writing short stories for adults, he eventually migrated to writing children's books. His debut work is an early chapter book titled The Enchanted River Race. His next release is a picture book, The Boy Who Couldn't Cry Wolf.

Outside of writing, Caldric enjoys hiking, gardening, and playing a variety of string instruments. Caldric currently resides in California.

Early Book Review: When Whales Cross the Sea by Sharon Katz Cooper

When Whales Cross the Sea is a nonfiction book for children written by Sharon Katz Cooper and illustrated by Tom Leonard. It is part of the Extraordinary Migration series and is currently scheduled for release on February 1 2015. This book allows young readers to swim alongside one gray whale as she makes the longest migration journey of any mammal on Earth. The realistic illustrations and information come together to captivate and educate.

When Whales Cross the Sea is an example of narrative nonfiction done right. Readers get to join a Gray Whale on its long migration from its feeding waters to where they give birth and raise their calves through their most vulnerable days. The story includes little details that scientist know to happen, and realistic illustrations that also happen to be beautiful.

When Whales Cross the Sea is a wonderful book for sharing with children through around age nine. It is easy to understand, with beautiful illustrations and a story that informs while keeping the youngest readers interested. Animal and science lovers will enjoy it the most.