Book Review: The Devil of Dunakin Castle (Highland Isles) by Heather McCollum

The Devil of Dunakin Castle by Heather McCollum is the fourth book in the Highland Isles series. I have not read the previous books, but after finishing this book I would like to. I was able to fully enjoy the read without the prior knowledge, although fans of the series will have a better understanding of some of the characters.

Englishwoman, Grace Ellington, has made a home in Scotland, but to escape from the meddling people around her who seem to think she needs to wed right away—because women need saving, right? —she volunteers to journey north to aid a friend in childbirth. Keir MacKinnon, the younger brother of the MacKinnon clan chief, has been raised to strike fear in people, on and off the battlefield. Trained to uphold MacKinnon law, he has hardened into a lethal warrior. Caught in a Highland blizzard with the feisty Grace, Keir realizes the beautiful woman who saved him can also save his nephew’s life.Sparks fly when he takes her against her will to his home, and Grace’s courage is put to the ultimate test. Is Keir MacKinnon the passionate, kind man she saved in the Highland blizzard, or is he truly the cruel executioner who seeks to solve all issues by the sword?

The Devil of Dunakin Castle is a book with characters that really get under your skin. Grace is tired of being treated like she could break at any given moment, even if she is a little accident prone. She takes advantage of an opportunity to travel and act as a healer, but things never seem to go as planned for her. Keir is in search of a healer to save his nephew, but his reputation as the Devil of Dunakin strikes fear into most people, and things are not really working out for him either. Together they find their way, and end up struggling with trust and reputations as new challenges keep rising in their paths. I love the way they both need to come to terms with their own fallibility and learn to trust each other. I think that Grave had the most influence on others and I loved seeing her take charge of the healing and more subtle relationship changes. I felt for her, and watching her try to get through to Keir and his family was heart wrenching. I was unable to put the book down, and am very eager to read more of this series. The writing style and characters are captivating and still have not get go of my imagination, I want more!

The Devil of Dunakin Castle is an engaging and heart wrenching read. The characters are extremely well written and they stayed with me well after I moved on to the next book. I am about to go hunt down the three previous books and get to reading.

Book Review: You Know What? by Carol Gordon Ekster, Nynke Mare Talsman

You Know What? is a picturebook written by Carol Gordon Ekster and illustrated by Nynke Mare Talsma. Oliver should go to sleep. But there is so much he wants to tell his mother about: what happened that day, the things he read in books, everything he sees around him. A touching and familiar picture book about postponing the ritual of going to sleep.

You Know What? is a picturebook that most parents or caregivers can relate to, and not just for the bedtime delay tactics. I cannot tell you how many times a day I have heard something along the lines of this book from my kids, from the time they could talk and still daily even though they are old enough to get themselves to bed with little direction from me. I think most kids can relate as well, and this would make a great bedtime or discussion starter book for dealing with the chatty delay tactics that kids use to get out of so many things. I really liked the illustrations, they are simple but still add an atmosphere and details that readers of all ages can enjoy.

Book Review: Where I End by Michelle Dare

Where I End by Michelle Dare is a new adult, contemporary romance. Eve has always felt a connection to Cy, even though he seems pretentious, arrogant, condescending and cruel. All that changed one spring morning when she discovered that she know the man behind the facade at all. He is angry, desperate, and broken. Cy was second from ending it all when she intervened, and then tried to push her away. Can they save each other?

Where I End is a story of abuse, redemption, and bravery. Cy might have always acted like the confident soul people expect him to be- but it is all an act to hide a dark secret. When Eve uncovers the truth, she supports and defends him when no one else has. Each of them has things to overcome, and together with Cy's friend Parker we get glimpse into each of their minds. While not a easy read, particularly for those that are being abused or have been in the past, I think it it honest and extremely realistic. The suffering and journey towards healing pictured here is heart breaking but also hopeful in its own way. I loved Eve's character and how she refuses to back down, even when it might have been the safer choice. I really enjoyed Parker's character, and wonder what might be in store for him. 

My only issue with the book, is one that seems to be prevalent in many romance books lately. That is the possessive and almost obsessive nature of the actual romance. While here is is based on a connection, love, and support- too often in real life the declaration of MINE is not healthy. While it is nice to have someone that does not even notice others, and have that reciprocated,the jealousy and possessiveness is not necessarily healthy.  As someone that managed to escape an unhealthy and controlling relationship in my early years, the romanticizing of that attitude never sits well with me. However, that is my personal hang up- but I hope that younger readers are not holding up that aspect of a relationship as ideal because that can be a warning sign of abuses to come.

Where I End is a book that I enjoyed on many levels, but was bothered by on one. The possessiveness fit for these characters, but in real life it is often not a good thing.  My worry that others might fall prey to, or search out, relationship where their partner is controlling or possessive because it seems so romantic really bothers me. I know it is nothing new, dysfunctional relationships have been part of literature forever, but it has always bothered me and always will. However, I keep reading these book- mainly because Dare does such a great job with the characters and other huge issues that I just cannot stop myself. 

Early Book Review: Little Sid: the Tiny Prince Who Became Buddha by Ian Lendler, Xanthe Bouma

Little Sid: the Tiny Prince Who Became Buddha written by Ian Lendlerand illustrated by Kanthe Bouma is a picturebook which is currently scheduled for release on January 23 2018.  As a spoiled young prince, Siddhartha got everything he ever asked for, until he asked for what could not be given, happiness. Join Little Sid as he sets off on a journey of discovery and encounters mysterious wise-folk, terrifying tigers, and one very annoying mouse.

Little Sid: the Tiny Prince Who Became Buddha is the origin story of Buddhism, and one I did not know. I am glad to get a better understanding of the practice, and think the idea of being present is so important in a time when so many equate stuff and being busy with being happy or successful. I think that many young readers will be able to relate to Sid, in his desire of time rather than things, from his parents. So often adults are too worried about work, cleaning the house, activities, and everything else to just be with the children in their lives. I found the artwork to be beautiful, alternating between muted tones and more vibrant ones, making the mindfulness of the story more evident to the reader. I think this book is a wonderful way to introduce the ideas of mindfulness, minimalism, and the practice of Buddhism to readers of all ages and religious backgrounds. 

Book Review: Tying the Scot by Jennifer Trethewey

Tying the Scot by Jennifer Trethewey is a historical romance. At age eleven, Alex Sinclair pledges an oath to the Duke of Chatham promising to serve and protect his illegitimate daughter, Lucy FitzHarris. Nine years later, the duke unexpectedly takes Alex up on his vow, offering the future Laird of Balforss his daughter’s hand in marriage. Now a man, hotheaded Alex has difficulty convincing Lucy—who would rather starve to death than marry a vulgar Scot—to go through with the arranged marriage. Once Lucy arrives in Scotland, she cannot resist the magic of Balforss or the allure of her handsome Highland warrior. But when Alex seemingly betrays Lucy right before their wedding, she is tricked into running away. Alex must rein in his temper to rescue his lady from unforeseen danger and Lucy must swallow her pride if she hopes to wed the Highlander she has come to love.

Tying the Scot is a story with complex characters and an intense plot. Lucy is a young and naive lady, facing marriage with a person she met only once as a child, all the while thinking herself in love with another. She makes some decisions or jumped to some conclusions that had me shaking my head, but all fit with her personality and character. I did like that she had some spunk and skill, rather than being a useless miss. Alex is an honorable Scot not sure that the marriage is a good idea either, but is willing to test the waters. His plans to find out more about Lucy, and to 'protect' her are not always well thought out, and often cause more harm than good- but they are entertaining. I love the way they both have reservations, and make mistakes, but for the most part talk about them. Although Lucy is more than a little naive, she is also good at heart and caring. Likewise, while Alex is a little rash and not exactly great with words, his effort to do the right thing and take care of those around him. The treachery and danger surrounding them makes for significant excitement- and plays on the doubt they each have in themselves and each other. While I think the pair having more conversations and less jumping to conclusions would have made for an easier relationship it would have also made for less excitement and a much shorter book.

Tying the Scot is an entertaining read with plenty of suspense and surprises. I enjoyed the read and found the characters to be very compelling, and they stayed with me after I finished the book. 

Book Review: My Secret Dog by Tom Alexander

My Secret Dog by Tom Alexander is a picturebook. I always wanted a dog, but Mum said I wasn't allowed. So I got one anyway. My secret dog lives in the cupboard and we sneak out at night to play. We'll be best friends forever, so long as Mum doesn't find out.

My Secret Dog is a picturebook about the responsibility and work that comes with owning a pet, as well as how much trouble secrets and lies can cause. The text is simple and fun, letting the reader imagine all sorts of craziness. The illustrations are pretty basic, stick figures that have a lot of fun with the use of black and white spaces. I liked the read, on the entertainment and lesson giving level. I think I might have to read this with my daughter who insists that we need a dog, right now!

Book Review: Give the Devil his Due (Tarot Mystery) by Steve Hockensmith, Lisa Falco

Give the Devil his Due is the third book in the Tarot Mystery series by Steve Hockensmith and Lisa Falco. I have not read the previous books, but I caught up pretty quickly and still fully enjoyed the read. Although, I expect fans of the series will enjoy it even more.

Reformed con artist-turned-tarot reader Alanis McLachlan gets paid for predicting the future. Too bad she couldn't see all the trouble in hers. First a figure from her troubled past returns to drag her back into the dark world of scams and thievery she thought she'd left behind. Then her on-again off-again romance with hunky teacher Victor Castellanos hits the skids when a surprising new suitor sweeps into town and tries to sweep Alanis off her feet. And then there's the little matter of the client who gets an ominous reading from Alanis, and is promptly murdered. Danger is in the cards for Alanis, and she'll need all her skills as a tarot reader and a con artist ― as well as a lot of luck ― if she's going to survive.

Give the Devil his Due is a fast paced mystery full of twists and turns, some of which took me by real surprise. I liked the characters, and thought that Alanis was an interesting woman and one I want to read more about. Her family, past, and present are full of betrayal and unanswered questions, which I really want to know more about. The danger and mystery are very well constructed- and old friend back from the dead, a mystery painting, murder, and mayhem surround Alanis as she continues her battle to be the opposite of her mother. I loved reading the interplay between Alanis and her sister, possible suitors, and all the secondary characters. I loved the zaniness of some of the characters and locations the story introduced me too. GW and Biddle are great characters and I hope to see more of both, although Victor played a much smaller role than the blurb lead me to believe, so there is no real love triangle here- which was a relief.

Give the Devil his Due is a fast and entertaining read. I enjoyed the cast of characters and the action that kept them all on their toes. I think I will try and find the time to read the previous, and future, volumes of this series. 

Book Review: The Santa Thief by Alane Adams, Lauren Gallegos

The Santa Thief is a picturebook written by Alane Adams and illustrated by Lauren Gallegos.  It's winter in Girard, Pennsylvania and the pond is completely frozen over--ready for a young boy to go skating!--but Georgie's ice skates are too small. All Georgie wants for Christmas is a new pair of skates. But times are tough in 1920s Pennsylvania, and he gets the disappointing news Santa might not come this year. Follow Georgie as he decides to take matters into his own hands and steals Santa's identity--and discovers what Christmas is all about. 

The Santa Thief is a Christmas tale with illustrations reminiscent of The Christmas Carol and other classics. I like that Georgie made his own Christmas joy by doing something positive for his family when he had earlier only been disappointed. It was nice that in the end his parents were able to get him the skates, while still showing that it was by working hard and saving rather than Santa that he got what he really wanted. I am not sure that parents trying to keep Santa's magic alive will want to share this read, and I have no idea why Thief was in the title. However, those trying to instill a little respect for hard work, charity, and the importance of thoughtfulness in gift giving might want to give this book a read.

Book Review: Thunder Moon (Langston Bay Trilogy) by Joanne Mallory

Thunder Moon is the first book in the Langston Bay Trilogy by Joanne Mallory. Thea Lavelle is a hereditary witch whose gift came late. But when she meets Marc, her best friend’s brother, she realizes their souls have crossed paths before. Devastated by the loss of a patient, grief and guilt have left Marc burnt out, and he knows the best thing for him is to head home and recover. But as they are inexplicably drawn together, it soon becomes clear that fate is at work. Are they strong enough to confront their unknown past, and still build a future together?

Thunder Moon is a witchy contemporary romance. I liked the setting and the friendship between Thea and Ellie. I like all of the characters, and found Thea, Ellie, and Marc to be well developed and complicated. However, I think the majority of the relationship development was more assumed or an after thought than actually part of the story. Even the big resolution at the end seemed a little flat. I felt invested in everyone's wellbeing, but not in the developing romance. I am hoping this is at least partly because of the amount of history and character set up that needed to be laid for the trilogy. To be honest, I am more interested in Ellie and Thea's brother, and the larger story line after reading this book than the happy ever after promised to Thea and Marc.

Thunder Moon is a fast read, and entertaining. However, I felt like it was light on relationship development and the world and story building seemed a little flat. I enjoyed it, but it did not wow me of leave me eager for the next installment. I might pick up the next book to see if it improves but I will not be searching it out. 

Early Book Review: The Uncanny Express (The Unintentional Adventures of the Bland Sisters) by Kara LaReau

The Uncanny Express is the second book in The Unintentional Adventures of the Bland Sisters series by Kara LaReau, and is currently scheduled for release on January 9 2018.  The first book was The Jolly Regina, and while I almost always recommend reading a series in order, I think newcomers to this series will be able to pick up the story quickly.

Jaundice and Kale are back from their adventure on the high seas, and they are settling back into a quiet life in Dullsville, just the way they like it. The tea is tepid, the oatmeal is tasteless, and the socks are ripe for darning, until Aunt Shallot shows up and reveals herself to be anything but the dull relation they were expecting. Instead, she tells her nieces she is Magique, Queen of Magic, and she’s on her way to a big show and in need of two willing assistants. As Magique and the Bland sisters board the Uncanny Express, they meet a cast of mystifying characters. And when Magique goes missing, it’s up to Jaundice and Kale to solve the mystery—with the help of famous detective Hugo Fromage.

The Uncanny Express is the continuation of the story about two sisters whose parents are off adventuring. They prefer to hide away at home avoiding excitement and emotion, but their parents keep arranging adventures for them from afar. Here they are tricked into going off with a female magician and solving a mystery or two on a train. I love that while they drag their feet at every new thing and every emotion, they still keep moving forward and handle what ever comes their way. I liked the resilience that they show, and that while they might complain, they still do what ever needs to be done. I think it might be a good conversation starter for readers that are often reluctant to step up to lead or join in activities, to show that once you get started it gets easier- and they might just enjoy themselves. I know I was never a joiner or one to put myself out there as a kid, and most of the time once I was in the midst of the activity I would enjoy it. I will admit that certain aspects of the mystery I had guessed, but the delivery and journey was enjoyable. 

The Uncanny Express is  a fun adventure that I would love to get my son to read. It is fun, with moments of humor and irony that might go over the heads of some, but I found to be pretty perfect.