Early Book Review: Ghost Book by Remy Lai

Ghost Book by Remy Lai is a graphic novel currently scheduled for release on July 18 2023. July Chen sees ghosts. But her dad insists ghosts aren’t real. So she pretends they don’t exist. Which is incredibly difficult now as it's Hungry Ghost month, when the Gates of the Underworld open and dangerous ghosts run amok in the living world. When July saves a boy ghost from being devoured by a Hungry Ghost, he becomes her first ever friend. Except William is not a ghost. He’s a wandering soul wavering between life and death. As the new friends embark on an adventure to return William to his body, they unearth a ghastly truth—for William to live, July must die.

Ghost Book is a middle grade graphic novel with inspiration from Chinese mythology. I thought the artwork and color choices were well done, and did a good job of telling and expanding on the story. I liked the blend of spooky, mythology, and kid angst. The family, school, and friend level conflicts felt very on point and realistic. I also thought that that Chinese mythology was explained nicely for newcomers to the subject, while not leaving those with some understanding of it feeling bored or talked down to. I enjoyed this book on a number of levels and think it will have a wide middle grade to middle school audience. 

Audiobook Review: Haunted in America: True Ghost Stories From The Best of Leslie Rule Collection by Leslie Rule, Narrated by Lisa Flanagan

Haunted in America: True Ghost Stories From The Best of Leslie Rule Collection by Leslie Rule, narrated by Lisa Flanagan, is a compendium of the best of Leslie Rule’s ghost explorations and interviews. With the most-spine tingling stories from the author’s previous four books, Coast to Coast Ghosts, When the Ghost Screams, Ghosts Among Us, and Ghost in the Mirror, along with new and updated accounts and theories, Rule brings her original voice to this omnibus of chilling, fascinating tales.

Haunted in America is an interesting listen for believers and skeptics alike. I liked that while there are plenty of tales of encounters, some spooky and others hopeful, there was great importance placed on respect for the current owners of these locations, the people that have had the experiences, the souls of those that might be trying to communicate, and the families that are left behind. I thought that the focus on history, research, and respect was a bit gratifying and quite the change from attitude many ghost researchers and hunters seem to have in the field, and the way media presents it. I thought that the narrator did a great job of telling the stories with the respect and solemnity due the subject matter- especially when relating the details of tragedies and death that often come hand in hand with tales of hauntings. I did not always agree with the authors take of certain situations and stories, but I did appreciate the honest and well researched relating of both her experiences and those she discovered in interviews and through research. 

Early Book Review: Ghost Girl by Ally Malinenko

Ghost Girl by Ally Malinenko is currently scheduled for release on August 10 2021.  Zee Puckett loves ghost stories. She just never expected to be living one. It all starts with a dark and stormy night. When the skies clear, everything is different. People are missing. There’s a creepy new principal who seems to know everyone’s darkest dreams. And Zee is seeing frightening things: large, scary dogs that talk and maybe even a ghost. When she tells her classmates, only her best friend Elijah believes her. Worse, mean girl Nellie gives Zee a cruel nickname: Ghost Girl. But whatever the storm washed up isn’t going away. Everyone’s most selfish wishes start coming true in creepy ways. To fight for what’s right, Zee will have to embrace what makes her different and what makes her Ghost Girl. And all three of them—Zee, Elijah, and Nellie—will have to work together if they want to give their ghost story a happy ending.

Ghost Girl is a story that did a great job of showing the main character's growth with keeping readers on the edge of their seat. Zee is at that crossroads that just about everyone suffers through. They are not really little kids anymore, not quite a teen, and every thing feels huge and important. This is even harder when you, and others, perceive yourself as different. School, family, and peer relationships are hard even when things are typical, but when you are not it get even harder. Add in some disappearances,  scary looking dogs, ghosts, and a odd new principal and things are really going to get worse. I liked the balance of the supernatural and coming of age aspects of the story. The character development and growth for Zee, Nellie, and Elijah is very well done and I loved the path that they took. I also thought most of the mystical aspects of the story were very well done, and I liked that there were some unexpected things included.  I will say that I rather anticipated the big bad, and when they hit the page was even more clear that they were the root cause, but I enjoyed the path the story took us on and the lessons learned along the way.

Ghost Girl is a middle grade novel with a good blend of spooky and character growth. I will be looking for more from the author. 

Book Review: Black Water Sister by Zen Cho

Black Water Sister by Zen Cho is a contemporary fantasy. When Jessamyn Teoh starts hearing a voice in her head, she chalks it up to stress. Closeted, broke and jobless, she’s moving back to Malaysia with her parents – a country she last saw when she was a toddler. She soon learns the new voice isn’t even hers, it’s the ghost of her estranged grandmother. In life, Ah Ma was a spirit medium, avatar of a mysterious deity called the Black Water Sister. Now she’s determined to settle a score against a business magnate who has offended the god—and she's decided Jess is going to help her do it, whether Jess wants to or not. Drawn into a world of gods, ghosts, and family secrets, Jess finds that making deals with capricious spirits is a dangerous business, but dealing with her grandmother is just as complicated. Especially when Ah Ma tries to spy on her personal life, threatens to spill her secrets to her family and uses her body to commit felonies.  As Jess fights for retribution for Ah Ma, she’ll also need to regain control of her body and destiny or the Black Water Sister may finish her off for good.

Black Water Sister is extremely well written and engaging. But, lets get a content/trigger warning out of the way. There are some scenes of abuse and assault in various degrees. They are important to the story, and not gratuitous, but if these are triggers for you please make sure you are prepared or wait until you are in a place to handle them. 

Life after college can be hard, more so when you move overseas with your parents while being haunted by your grandmother and trying to handle family pressures, relationship stress, and deciding on her next steps in life. There are many twists and turns, some of which I saw coming and many of which took me by surprise. Some still have me reeling even after having finished the read. I liked getting a better understanding of a country I honestly do not know much about, and the way different cultures mingle and collide there. Seeing the way beliefs and cultures combine, and how universal certain types of injustice and greed can be reminds readers that somethings have always been there and we still need to fight them and find a way forward. The characters are extremely dynamic, with the capacity for good and evil in almost every action and word. I still have questions about what happens to certain characters next, what paths they follow, but I was very satisfied with the conclusion to the immediate conflicts and the choices Jess made. 

Black Water Sister is a fascinating and engaging read. It is a roller coaster ride that stays with the readers.  

Book Review: Secrets of Camp Whatever, Vol. 1, by Chris Grine

Secrets of Camp Whatever, Vol. 1, by Chris Grine is a middle grade graphic novel. Eleven year-old Willow doesn't want to go to her dad's weird old summer camp any more than she wants her family to move to the weird old town where that camp is located. But her family—and fate itself—seem to have plans of their own. Soon Willow finds herself neck-deep in a confounding mystery involving stolen snacks, suspected vampires, and missing campers, all shrouded in the sinister fog that hides a generation of secrets at Camp ... Whatever it's called. 

Secrets of Camp Whatever is a story that I think readers from a wide range of ages will enjoy. The art is very well done, and captures the mood of the characters, the setting, and the underlying mysteries very well. I liked the personalities of the kids, and I found their reluctance and curiosity to be very realistic in spite of the things they discover. The way they deal with each other, the adults around them, and the mysteries of the island only made me interested to learn more.Willow's independence, and the way some people treated her, was key in her personality but not the story development.  I really enjoyed the read, and am looking forward to this series continuing. 

Secrets of Camp Whatever is a fun and engaging graphic novel that left me eager to see what volume two might have in store. 

Book Review: Jujutsu Kaisen, Vol. 1, by Gege Akutami

Jujutsu Kaisen, Vol. 1, by Gege Akutami is a manga style graphic novel. Yuji Itadori is resolved to save the world from cursed demons, but he soon learns that the best way to do it is to slowly lose his humanity and become one himself! In a world where cursed spirits feed on unsuspecting humans, fragments of the legendary and feared demon Ryomen Sukuna were lost and scattered about. Should any demon consume Sukuna’s body parts, the power they gain could destroy the world as we know it. Fortunately, there exists a mysterious school of Jujutsu Sorcerers who exist to protect the precarious existence of the living from the supernatural! Although Yuji Itadori looks like your average teenager, his immense physical strength is something to behold! Every sports club wants him to join, but Itadori would rather hang out with the school outcasts in the Occult Research Club. One day, the club manages to get their hands on a sealed cursed object. Little do they know the terror they’ll unleash when they break the seal. 

Jujutsu Kaisen is a graphic novel with a good balance of character development and action. There is a great deal of world building that needs to go into a series starter, and this was done well in conjunction with the character introductions and start of growth. Itadori is a young adult that is dropped into a situation that he does not fully understand, but is trying to catch up and do his best to honor he grandfather's last wish. At the same time he is a little flighty and naive. Going along with him as he tries to find his place and the world of fighting curse energy is explained to him and readers alike is quite the adventure. I feel like there is so much more to learn about the major characters and the world, and look forward to reading more. My biggest issue is one that I often have with series like this, that the hook or cliff hanger at the end left me feeling like I was cheated out of some kind of resolution or ending. I knew this was likely, and is a common effort made to get readers hooked and eager for the next book. Sometimes it works, and other times it just makes me mad. In this case their ploy worked ad I am eager for volume two.

Jujutsu Kaisen is a well written and drawn manga with plenty of character development and action. I look forward to continuing to read this series.

Book Review: Casting Shadows (Magicsmith) by L.R. Braden

Casting Shadows is the forth book in the Magicsmith series by L.R. Braden. I highly recommend reading this series in order. With Purity growing in political power and bigotry on the rise across the Realms, Alex’s short-term goals are to stay under the PTF's radar and as far from the fae Courts as she can. But her plans go up in smoke when May, the younger sister of her good friend Emma, goes missing. The fae are involved. Alex will do everything she can to find May, but to mount a rescue she'll have to avoid PTF raids, conquer old ghosts, and risk coming face to face with her fae grandfather again. War is coming. Lines are being drawn. No one is safe. To survive, Alex will have to choose a side.

Casting Shadows is a nice addition to the series, and although it took me a bit to remember all the details of the past books I was engaged again quickly. The book is just as much about Alex figuring herself out and character growth for her and her closest circle of friends as it is the dangers of rescuing missing kids. Danger seems to be coming from all sides, and Alex's band of friends is just as fractured as the rest of the world. The pressure is on, and one wrong choice could have dire consequences. I like how much of the focus was not about choosing sides necessarily, but figuring out what was most important and how to do right by those you want to protect. 

Casting Shadows is a good continuation of the story with a nice balance of resolutions and warning of more danger to come. Those that have been reading the series will want to continue with this volume, and if you are like me, beyond as it continues.

Early Book Review: Spells for the Dead (Soulwood) by Faith Hunter

Spells for the Dead is the fifth book in the Soulwood series by Faith Hunter and is currently scheduled for release on July 28 2020. I highly recommend reading this series in order, and having read the Jane Yellowrock series would not hurt although is not as needed, to really enjoy the read and know what is going on. Even as a return reader it still takes a bit to remember the details and get entrenched in Nell's world. 

Nell is a rookie PsyLED agent, using the powers she can channel from deep within the earth to solve paranormal crimes. Together with her team, she's taken on the direst magic and the most twisted foes. But she'll need to tap into every ounce of power she has for her newest case. Nell is called to the Tennessee mansion of a country music star and finds a disturbing scene—dead bodies rapidly decaying before everyone's eyes. The witch on her team, T. Laine, has never seen magic that can steal life forces like this. PsyLED needs to find this lethal killer fast. But when a paranormal-hating FBI agent tries to derail the investigation, and the dark magics begin to spiral out of control, they find themselves under attack from all sides.

Spells for the Dead is a mystery with significant twists and turns and character growth. I enjoyed seeing Nell continue to grow, in her understanding of herself, the world in general, and the people that mean the most to her. The story of Nell, PsyLED, and Nell's family is all very well told. So much introspection and exploration of how the magic of the worlds works, and how seemingly small things can mean a great deal. The mystery was very intriguing, and the magic very dark. Nell and crew follow the trail and the twists make them look closer at the pasts of those involved, and the skills they have, much closer than anyone really wants to. I thought the work with Mud and Esther was pretty much perfect, and I am interested to see where their lives take them, and Nell's relationship and future has me equally hooked. Hunter, as always, has me just as interested in the individuals and small moments as the larger story. 

I think I took longer to read this than I would have normally because of that darkness. I was just in a place that I needed to be reading something much lighter (because of the real world) but I needed to know what happened next so badly that I could not put the book away. If the real world was not a dumpster fire with people proving how horrible they can be, I would have enjoyed the skill that was clearly displayed in this book so much more. 

Spells for the Dead is a solid continuation of the series, and I am eager to see what Hunter does with this world next.

Book Review: Come On, Get Lucky by Jacqueline Rohrbach

Come On, Get Lucky by Jacqueline Rohrbach is a paranormal romance with a mystery to solve. Grant is looking for love, but there’s one big problem—himself. Due to Grant’s massive size, not to mention the fact he’s also a werewolf, all the eligible bachelors steer clear of him, preferring men who are a little less ginormous and a lot less monstrous. Only Lee, Grant’s best friend and vampire extraordinaire, sees him as a gentle giant who longs to give awesome backrubs, cupcakes, and endless affection to his lifelong mate. Lee is tired of the same old song and dance of dating and then breaking up. The only steady presence in his life has been Grant, a tried-and-true friend who always knows what to say and the right spot to scratch. So, when Grant finally breaks up with his flighty boyfriend, Lee sees an opportunity to let his carefully guarded heart out of its box and try for something real and lasting. There’s a problem, though: Lee has always forbidden romance between friends, an order he’s drilled into Grant’s head over and over again. That means Lee might need to throw their friendship to the fire. To find passion, they’ll have to become enemies. To find love, they’ll have to get lucky.

Come On, Get Lucky is a book with a lot going on. Lee and Grant are good friends, and neither has had much luck in the love department. From the description of the book I thought Grant's size was going to be mentioned more in the story, but I found that his werewolf nature tended to get much more attention than his size. The friends to more aspect between Lee and Grant was both charming and frustrating. Grant was trying so hard to be good, and the set up by Lee that is mentioned in the blurb is much more of a question in the actual story of whether his efforts were on purpose or just kind of happening. I would have liked some more of the story clearly from Lee's point of view and maybe a conversation or two between the two that could have moved things along much quicker romantically but still left plenty of room for the drama and danger aspects of the story. I really liked the side stories about the rabbit and 'stalker'. I found that the dichotomy of the vampire and werewolf fighting over and caring for a bunny sweet and fun. I also found how both were so distracted that they missed the clues about how something more sinister than someone unhappy to be turned down was happening until the stakes were raised. There were some serious twists and turns, and I was always curious about just what would happen next. 

Come On, Get Lucky is a good book, with a lot going on. I just might be looking for the author's backlist for more good reads.

Book Review: Imaginary Numbers (InCryptid) by Seanan McGuire

Imaginary Numbers is the ninth book in the InCryptid series by Seanan McGuire. While I do suggest reading the series in order, and as a series, the books can stand fairly well on their own but newcomers will be missing out on some great backstory and character references that enhance the read. Since this is the first story from Sarah's perspective, there are worse places to start.  

Sarah Zellaby has always been in an interesting position. Adopted into the Price family at a young age, she's never been able to escape the biological reality of her origins: she's a cuckoo, a telepathic ambush predator closer akin to a parasitic wasp than a human being. Friend, cousin, mathematician; it's never been enough to dispel the fear that one day, nature will win out over nurture, and everything will change. Maybe that time has finally come. After spending the last several years recuperating in Ohio with her adoptive parents, Sarah is ready to return to the world--and most importantly, to her cousin Artie, with whom she has been head-over-heels in love since childhood. But there are cuckoos everywhere, and when the question of her own survival is weighed against the survival of her family, Sarah's choices all add up to one inescapable conclusion. This is war. Cuckoo vs. Price, human vs. cryptid, and not all of them are going to walk away.

Imaginary Numbers is another well written story from McGuire, with dynamic characters and a healthy dose of danger. I have been wanted more from Sarah for a long time, and I am extremely glad to have this story. I got much more action that I really expected, and a little less Artie and Sarah together, but everything worked together quite well and I was happy with the way it all came together. I enjoyed getting inside Sarah's head, quite literally. There were a couple twists I did not expect, some explanations that tied some things up for me, and a few twists that I am hoping to see pop up in the next book. I do not want to go into too much detail, because it was a great ride and I want everyone to enjoy it as much as I did. My biggest complaints are that I missed the book before this somehow, which I am off to rectify now, and the story ended in such a way that I am pretty desperate for the next instalment already. 

Imaginary Numbers is a must read for the McGuire's fans, and a solid story for other readers that might want to dive in to her well crafted worlds. 

Book Review: Raven's Moon (Raven Tales) by J.B. Dane

Raven's Moon is the first book in the Raven Tales series by J.B. Dane. Bram Farrell, private investigator, has starred in twenty bestselling novels by writer-and witch-Calista Amberson. Her fans love the tall, dark, and handsome PI who uses magical powers to vanquish supernatural bad guys. So, when Calista uses her magic to pull Bram from his fictional world into real-world, modern-day Detroit, she rocks both worlds. Now Bram must track down and destroy otherworld evil before it destroys him.Bram's investigation turns up a lot of suspicious characters: grouchy bar-owning trolls, a thirsty vampire godfather, a couple of murderous x-cage fighters, a suspicious minister-and the Devil himself. Things are getting dicey: Bram could use some help with this job-but whom can he trust? 

Raven's Moon is an urban fantasy that captured my attention because of the premise. Book character from a series similar to stories I enjoy dragged from his books into the 'real' world with similarities and differences from his former life. I liked the takes on creatures from legends, and the twists and turns the mystery and magical elements of the story took. I liked Bram's character, trying to figure out who and what he is in the real world, and where he stands. The complications of who has good intentions, and who is out for power or more nefarious things had me guessing throughout the entire story. Hints were dropped, and I found myself muddling along side Bram. Some of the twists I suspected, some I considered and rejected, only to have it all turn around on me. I think it was a combination of the knowledge of a wide variety of legendary creatures and Bram's own self awareness that really made me love this story. The world and character building were very well done. The humor of a dachshund shaped hellhound and other characters certainly mad the read even better for me though. 

Raven's Moon is a wonderful start to a series, and I will be reading the next book as soon as it is available, but for now I am going to get my hands on the prequels.

Book Review: Junkyard Dog (Hellhounds) by Katja Desjarlais

Junkyard Dog is the first Hellhounds novel by Katja Desjarlais.  Joshua Tree National Park Ranger Charlotte arrives on the scene of a car accident caused by a large dog tearing across the road. The third sighting of the animal in as many weeks, Charlotte’s interest is piqued. Armed with a bowl of dog food and a bucket of patience, she sets out to find the beast. With the grille marks of a sedan imprinted on his broken ribs, Alex returns to the scene of the accident, scouring for prints he’d left behind when he encounters Charlotte on the trail. The attraction is undeniable, but Alex is on a mission from Hades and can’t afford the distraction. While Charlotte continues to gain the trust of the wild dog roaming the park, Alex is caught between the woman he’s falling for and the job he was sent to do. With bodies and secrets piling at his feet, Alex is pushed to choose between the hellhound he is and the man he wants to be.

Junkyard Dog is a nice start to an urban fantasy/romance series. I really liked Charlotte- her intelligence and empathy were well done. I liked that she could take care of herself, but wanted to help others, and animals, much more than herself. My only annoyance with her character is that there kept being comments about her having bad taste in men before, and how she just had no interest in relationships because of it. However, there is no mention of what actually happened. If the details are not important then that is fine, but there is no reason to keep bringing it up, just saying that she does not want to date at the moment could have been enough. Max and the other secondary characters were very well written, which I always enjoy. I would like to read more about the ranger crew and the employees at the bar. As for Alex, I liked his character too. I enjoyed that while he had other responsibilities he kept his word and did his best for the people around him. I got a kick out of his interactions with Charlotte as a dog. The combination of humor and danger was good. I will admit that I was rather expecting the hound reveal to happen much sooner- like her seeing the grill marks on a shirtless Alex at some point- but the written reveal was much more dramatic and moved the story forward more and with good effect. All the elements were in place for me to love this story, and I found it enjoyable and a good read. I was hoping for even more, so while I was glad I read the book it just did not wow me.

Junkyard Dog is a good urban fantasy and romance. I liked the premise, the characters, and the balance of humor and danger.

Book Review: First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson) by Darynda Jones

First Grave on the Right is the first book in the Charley Davidson series by Darynda Jones. Charley Davidson is a part-time private investigator and full-time grim reaper. Meaning, she sees dead people, and it's her job to convince them to "go into the light." But when these very dead people have died under less than ideal circumstances (like murder), sometimes they want Charley to bring the bad guys to justice. Complicating matters are the intensely hot dreams she's been having about an entity who has been following her all her life...and it turns out he might not be dead after all. In fact, he might be something else entirely. But what does he want with Charley? And why can't she seem to resist him? And what does she have to lose by giving in?

First Grave on the Right is an urban fantasy with a great blend of humor, danger, and steam. Charlie can see and interact with ghosts, she is also their portal into the afterlife. She is also a private investigator and consultant with the police department, work that is made significantly easier (but harder to explain) due to her ghostly communications. I love her snark, and find her inner vulnerability and concern for those that cannot defend themselves to be very well balanced and believable. I thought the Reyes storyline and the complication of their possible relationship to be well played and the larger storyline it leads to is intriguing, and I want more. I like the way that the cast of secondary characters were introduced, and how much depth each were given. There were moments that felt like I should already know something about a character, or that there might have been a prequel or backstory that I somehow missed, but most of those were quickly explained and fixed in the story. Ithink the fact that Charlie does not have all the answers but is figuring things right along with readers goes a long way to forge a connection between the reader and her character. I like that I was not able to solve the mystery, and that some things surprised me as much as they did Charlie. Too often I have my theories about who is pulling the strings too early in the story, but in this instance I was as shocked as the characters when certain reveals were made. As a whole I am engaged with the story and the characters, and while there was closure to the story, I still want more (in a good way).

First Grave on the Right is a fun and engaging read. While this is not a new series, I have read one of the more recent instalments and wanted to see where it all started. I was not disappointed. Now I need to binge read the whole series. I highly recommend that other urban fantasy fans that have somehow missed this series to pick it up.

Book Review: Midnight Reynolds and the Spectral Transformer by Catherine Holt

Midnight Reynolds and the Spectral Transformer by Catherine Holt is the first book in a new middle grade series. When twelve year-old misfit Midnight Reynolds takes a job helping out eccentric Miss Appleby in the mansion down the street, she never imagined her work would involve battling ghosts. But as it turns out, Midnight and her new employer have quite a bit in common—they were both born on Halloween and have the power to see spirits of the dead. But when Midnight learns more about the history of her town, she starts to wonder if she’s fighting on the right side.

Midnight Reynolds and the Spectral Transformer is a wonderful middle grade novel. I will admit that it started a little slow for me, but once I got a good understanding of the characters, and Midnight's insecurities, I was fully engaged in the read. Midnight is tired of feeling different and wants to fit in more than just about anything. Unfortunately the popular girls that she wants to fit in are far from perfect. In her strides to appear cool she needs money, which leads her to working for Miss Appleby and embarking on a new adventure. I like Midnight's determination, even though she is not always working toward the best or healthiest goal. I really enjoyed Midnight's journey and how much she grew as a friend, daughter, and person in general. She found her place, her special skill set, and her bravery and learned how to use all of them for good. There were moments that had me cringinging, mainly because the middle school drama was right on point with what I remember, and what I worry about in the future for my kids. I really enjoyed the read and am disappointed in myself for letting it languish in my TBR pile for as long as I did. I have already gotten my hands on the sequel, and plan to get to that one much quicker.

Midnight Reynolds and the Spectral Transformer is a highly entertaining and relatable adventure. While readers might not have the ability to see ghostly energy, but at some point we have all felt like an outside or have been in search for our own special niche or place. 

Early Book Review: Flame in the Dark (Soulwood) by Faith Hunter

Flame in the Dark is the third book in the Soulwood series by Faith Hunter. I do recommend reading this series in order, I do not think new readers to the series will get as much out of it as those that have been following the series.  It is set in the same world as the Jane Yellowrock series, and has some character crossover. It is not necessary to have full and current knowledge of the Yellowrock series, but it will certainly enhance the read. It is currently scheduled for release on December 5 2017.

Nell Ingram has always known she was different. Since she was a child, she’s been able to feel and channel ancient powers from deep within the earth. When she met Jane Yellowrock, her entire life changed, and she was recruited into PsyLED—the Homeland Security division that polices paranormals. But now her newly formed unit is about to take on its toughest case yet. A powerful senator barely survives an assassination attempt that leaves many others dead—and the house he was visiting burns to the ground. Invisible to security cameras, the assassin literally disappears, and Nell’s team is called in. As they track a killer they know is more—or less—than human, they unravel a web of dark intrigue and malevolent motives that tests them to their limits and beyond.

Flame in the Dark is what I was hoping for, and so much more. The case that Nell's team is on revealed more about the team, and the supernatural in the world they live in. I liked the slow reveal, but I will admit to have some suspicion about the nature of the culprit prior to the reveal. However, the extent of the horror involved in those crimes still sent me off center and shook me a bit. It was perfectly planned and executed. Nell's journey is so full of emotion and social growth and challenge that I find myself very invested in her story, and the well being of those involved in her life. I was glad to see some huge things happen, some things resolved, and the promise of so much more to come. I will admit to being worried for a bit that Nell's story might be over, and that another character might have to step up and be the focus of the next book or more of this series. Notice me trying to avoid saying anything about the action and plot of this book, because I do not want to ruin the surprises that are in store for readers. If you have been following the series, you need to keep going. If you have not started yet- start from the beginning and buckle up, this series is quite the roller coaster. 

Flame in the Dark is another fantastic book by Faith Hunter. My only issue is that I am always wanting to get the next bit of story NOW, rather than waiting for it to be written and published. I highly recommend this series, and her Jane Yellowrock series, which I have been listening to on audiobook. If you like audiobooks, her reader is wonderful so have no fear and jump on in, but do it in order. 

Book Review: The Impending Possession of Scarlet Wakebridge-Rosé by S.L. Saboviec

The Impending Possession of Scarlet Wakebridge-Rosé  by S.L. Saboviec is a stand alone novel set in the same world as the Fallen Redemtion series (which I have not read).  

Scarlet Wakebridge-Rosé, busy executive and less-than-stellar mother and wife, has a problem that only an exorcist can solve. Except she’s not precisely a devout Catholic parishioner any longer, and to gain assistance from the Church means telling a whopping lie of omission. Fortunately, she discovers Father Angelo Ambrosio, whose commitment to helping the afflicted means he’s willing to overlook the things Scarlet prefers to keep hidden. Unfortunately, his sordid past keeps him under a microscope with the bishop, who’s not so liberal in his views. But the demon harassing Scarlet is relentless. It makes its motives clear: in a previous life, she struck a bargain, promising it her body on her fiftieth birthday. Now, she and Angelo must unravel the mystery surrounding her forgotten past in order to stop the possession by next week or risk losing her to the depths of Hell forever.

The Impending Possession of Scarlet Wakebridge-Rosé  is a story with an interesting premise and a diverse, if not slightly twisted, cast of characters. It is a supernatural thriller that also deals with homophobia and the related issues in the church, and society in general. I liked that no one seemed to be written as a token character to fit the desire to be diverse, they just happened to be who they were. That is not always how the characters seem, but it did play completely organic which I liked. Scarlet was a well written character, and while her stubborn nature is key to the story, she frustrated me on several occasions as well. Although I have to admit that Father Angelo and Zoe were my favorite characters in the book, much more so than Scarlet. I found Zoe's voice to be much stronger and more engaging than Scarlet's, and I thought Angelo's character was very compelling and I was much more engaged with his well being than Scarlet's.

The Impending Possession of Scarlet Wakebridge-Rosé  just did not grab me. Perhaps if I had read the related series I would have enjoyed it more, or maybe my reading style and the author's writing style do not compliment each other. However, I can think of so many readers that would enjoy this read and that I would happily recommend it to.

Book Review: Red Winter (Red Winter Trilogy) by Annette Marie

Red Winter  is the first book in the Red Winter Trilogy by Annette Marie. Emi is the kamigakari. In a few short months, her life as a mortal will end and her new existence as the human host of a goddess will begin. Carefully hidden from those who would destroy her, she has prepared her mind, body, and soul to unite with the goddess, and not once has she doubted her chosen fate. Shiro is a yokai, a spirit of the earth, an enemy of the goddess Emi will soon host. Mystery shrouds his every move and his ruby eyes shine with cunning she can’t match and dares not trust. But she saved his life, and until his debt is paid, he is hers to command, whether she wants him or not. On the day they meet, everything Emi believes comes undone, swept away like snow upon the winter wind. For the first time, she wants to change her fate, but how can she erase a destiny already wrought in stone? Against the power of the gods, Shiro is her only hope  and hope is all she has left.

Red Winter  starts out slow, but once you get about a quarter of the way through the book it becomes much more engaging. While Emi is sheltered and a little naive- she is also smart and strong. I will admit to not liking her at all in the beginning, part of why I had a hard time getting into the story, but as the action kicked in she grew on me.  I liked that Katsuo is more than a protector- and acts as a friend and support in a variety of ways.  Shiro might be a late entry into the story, but his character is what really sets things into motion and makes the story come alive.  Then comes Yumei, making things more complicated and challenging for Emi. Once things start getting intense there are fantastic fight scenes, romance, and significant character growth. I loved the research that must have been done to achieve this level of accuracy about Japanese mythology and culture, and that there was wonderful artwork included.  The artwork is extremely well done, and captures the atmosphere and emotion of the book perfectly. 

Red Winter  is a book I thought I would adore, but had a hard time getting into. I am not sure if I was not in the right place to read it- or if it was something about the writing style. I tried a few times before forcing myself to stick with it, and I am glad I did. Once I got a good way into the story it took hold and I could not put it down. 

Book Review: Justice Calling (The Twenty-Sided Sorceress) by Annie Bellet

Justice Calling is the first book in The Twenty-Sided Sorceress series by Annie Bellet. Jade Crow lives a quiet life running her comic book and game store in Wylde, Idaho. After twenty-five years fleeing from a powerful sorcerer who wants to eat her heart and take her powers, quiet suits her just fine. Surrounded by friends who are even less human than she is, Jade figures she’s finally safe. As long as she doesn’t use her magic. When dark powers threaten her friends’ lives, a sexy shape-shifter enforcer shows up. He’s the shifter world’s judge, jury, and executioner rolled into one, and he thinks Jade is to blame. To clear her name, save her friends, and stop the villain, she’ll have to use her wits and her sorceress powers. Except Jade knows that as soon as she does, a far deadlier nemesis awaits. 

Justice Calling caught my attention right away. I liked that Jade is not the traditional heroine, never mind the traditional magic user. She has build her own nerdy paradise, and hides her magical nature in an effort to keep it. When Alek shows up she is worried about what his hunt, and the danger that is heading towards her friends. I understood her fear and reluctance- and her determination to protect the people she cares about. I liked the world building and mythology surrounding Jade, although I would have liked more details and backstory about the birth and chosen family that has shaped her life. The tidbits readers are given are very cool, but I wanted more. I hope that is part of the following books. I liked her problem solving efforts to solve the mystery, and how hard she works to keep her humanity while protecting other. I also liked that while Jade's attraction to Alek is very clear in the book, that possibility has nothing to do with the larger story- and nothing happens relationship wise until the immediate danger has been addressed. I enjoyed the writing style and the story, and I greatly look forward to seeing where the series goes from here. 

Justice Calling is an entertaining and enjoyable read. I will be checking out the next book in the series, hopefully I will get the backstory I want so badly. 

Book Review: Deader Homes and Gardens by Angie Fox

Deader Homes and Gardens by Angie Fox is the fourth book in the Southern Ghost Hunter Mystery series. The previous books, in order, were Southern Spirits, The Skeleton in the Closet, and The Haunted Heist with novellas between each book. I think the previous stories help to understand Verity's powers and some character dynamics. However, I think newcomers could catch up quickly and enjoy the story.

Southern belle Verity Long is back in business—as a ghost hunter. Now all she has to do is visit the town's creepiest mansion and exorcise a family of vengeful spirits. Piece of cake. After all, ghosts love her and need her...that is until she meets the ghosts of Rock Fall mansion. They'll do anything to keep their murderous secrets hidden within the cliff-side fortress—even if that means getting rid of one meddling ghost hunter. With the entire town skeptical and scrutinizing her every move, Verity struggles to uncover the century-old mystery behind the house. And when she stumbles upon a very fresh, very dead body, she realizes there’s more to it than she ever imagined. With the help of her sexy cop boyfriend, Ellis, and her ghostly gangster sidekick, Frankie, she braves the overgrown gardens, the desolate family cemetery, and the haunted mansion that have been locked away for generations.

Deader Homes and Gardens puts Verity and her ghostly partner Frankie back in the thick of a mystery. This time there are angry ghosts (yes again), Egyptian artifacts, and the possibility of an ancient curse. As Verity tries to solve the murders of an entire family, and avoid being killed by those same ghosts, Frankie is looking for more independence and Verity and Ellis are still trying to find their feet as a happy couple. I like that romance between Verity and Ellis is part of the story, and her character development, it does not overwhelm the story around the mystery or Frankie's own troubles. I liked the complication involved in the mystery- long assumed haunted house steeped in tragedy and odd happenings is the main focus of the story. Verity, Ellis, and Frankie all have their roles to play and I like that they each give each other the trust and space to do what they need to while being true to themselves. I will admit to seeing some of the final climax coming, but the journey was good fun and I enjoyed the read.

Deader Homes and Gardens is another fun, fast read by Fox. While it was not something that will stick with me after moving onto the next read, it certainly made what was hopefully the last snow day of the year more entertaining than expected.

Book Review: Wraithborn Volume 1 by Marcia Chen, Joe Benitez

Wraithborn Volume 1 collects the six issues of the Redux edition of the Wraithborn story. It was written by Marcia Chen and Joe Benitez.Valin, the apprentice warrior, was next in line to receive "the Wraithborn", but Melanie got in the way of the transfer and ended up gifted with that mystical power.  Together only they can stop an ancient evil from rising and enslaving all humankind.

Wraithborn Volume 1 is a well drawn and visually entertaining graphic novel. I enjoyed the artwork and the story, but think the use of the shy, hapless teenage girl suddenly receiving mystical powers and needing a guy around to explain and save her is more than a little over done. I did like that there were a number of strong female characters tossed in the mix, and that hints of Melanie becoming a strong fighter at some point were there. However, the shy dutiful girl unable or willing to stand up for herself or others is not my idea of a hero, no matter what kind of strength her magical powers will give her. As a fairly withdrawn person myself, I think the writers need to meet a few people more like the character they are writing. Most of the people I know that are willing to let themselves by abused, will fight tooth and nail to keep the same from happening to others- including locker room teasing and such. Aside from Melanie's character flaws, I liked the story, but I was not overly thrilled with it overall.