Book Review: Hansel and Gretel by Neil Gaiman, Lorenzo Mattotti

Hansel and Gretel by Neil Gaiman and artist Lorenzo Mattotti is a book that's at once as familiar as a dream and as evocative as a nightmare. Mattotti's sweeping ink illustrations capture the terror and longing found in the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale. Gaiman crafts an original text filled with his signature wit and pathos that is sure to become a favorite of readers everywhere, young and old.

Hansel and Gretel is a fairy tale retelling that captures the horror and hope of the Grimm version of this story. I love that Gaiman offers up some history of the story, and his personal history, of this tale. The black and white images from Mattotti are the perfect inspiration and pairing to the text. The inspire study, because there are details that a quick glance does not reveal. I think this book will appeal to fairy tale fans of all ages, and will be a fast favorite for many. 

Early Book Review: Death on the Green (Dublin Driver) by Catie Murphy

Death on the Green is the second book in the Dublin Driver series by Catie Murphy and is currently scheduled for release on September 29 2020. I have read (and enjoyed) the first book in the series, which gives a good character and situational understanding for readers. However, I think newcomers to the series would be able to catch on pretty quickly.

Life has been non-stop excitement for American Army veteran Megan Malone ever since she moved to Ireland and became a driver for Dublin’s Leprechaun Limousine Service. She’s solved a murder and adopted two lovable Jack Russell puppies. Currently, she’s driving world-class champion golfer Martin Walsh, and he’s invited her to join him while he plays in a tournament at a prestigious Irish locale. Unfortunately, there’s a surprise waiting for her on the course—a body floating in a water hazard. Everyone loved golfer Lou MacDonald, yet he clearly teed off someone enough to be murdered. Martin seems to be the only one with a motive. However, he also has an alibi: Megan and hundreds of his fans were watching him play. Now, with a clubhouse at a historical lodge full of secrets and a dashing Irish detective by her side, Megan must hurry to uncover the links to the truth before the real killer takes a swing at someone else.

Death on the Green is a solid mystery with twists that I did not expect and character development that kept me turning pages past my bedtime. Megan is quickly becoming my favorite protagonist in mysteries. She is smart, quick thinking, and curious without purposefully putting herself, or others, in danger. Whenever I read a mystery I am trying to decide who the most likely parties for the crime right from the very beginning. Usually I have it down pretty quickly, but this one had me guessing for quite awhile and surprised at a couple of the twists. I had a few of the pieces before they were revealed, but the bigger picture had more than I was expecting. I enjoyed getting to know the new characters, and was glad that Megan asked the questions I would have wanted to ask in her place. I also like that friendships are formed and develop, and there are mentions or suggestions of romantic feelings, but they are very much secondary to the rest of each character rather than what defines them. I also liked that I get to learn more about the area, and things like golf or other things irrelevant to my life but important to the story as I read. I am always happy to learn new things, and Megan's eagerness to do the same makes me happy. I was extremely invested in the story, and the little tease for the next installment included at the end of the book has me very interested in continuing the series.

Death on the Green is a fabulous follow up in this series. It had a satisfying conclusion, to an engaging mystery, ad still left me eager for more.

Early Book Review: Julia's House Moves On by Ben Hatke

Julia's House Moves On by Ben Hatke is a follow up to Julia’s House for Lost Creatures, and is currently scheduled for release on September 29 2020. Julia's house is restless. Julia and her family of lost creatures are ready to move on. But where will they go? And how will they get there? Don’t worry—Julia has a plan for that! Julia always has a plan. But when Julia's plans all fail what's left for her?

Julia's House Moves On is another charming graphic novel from Hatke. Some might consider this series picturebooks, others might consider them graphic novels. It does not matter what labels you want to slap on them, they are wonderful. Julia has a plan for everything. She wants to help and care for all creatures that need her and her house, and struggles when things do not fit into any plan and when plans go awry. Her angst is palpable, and understandable, to just about every reader. And the artwork, Hatke does not disappoint. I'll admit it- I have never seen a art from Hatke that I have not loved, so I might be a wee bit biased. However, I think all early graphic novel readers and picturebook lovers will find something worth a second and third read here.

Early Book Review: She Loves Me (Harmony Pointe) by Melissa Foster

She Loves Me is the third book in the Harmony Pointe series by Melissa Foster and currently scheduled for release on April 21 2020. You do not need to read the series in order to enjoy the read. However, there are connected characters and all of the books are pretty great, so if you enjoy one you might want to read them all anyway.

Something is off in Piper Dalton’s life, and she has a feeling it might just be her. All her siblings are blissfully settled with their forever loves. But while her sisters were dreaming of white weddings, Piper was left heartbroken and commitment phobic by her first love, her best friend’s younger brother. As a woman dominating the male-driven construction industry, Piper has no interest in turning in her hammer for an apron—even if hot and hilarious Harley thinks otherwise. Burly bar owner Harley Dutch has a bum ankle and two preteen nieces to take care of, and having his best friend, tough-as-nails and sexy-as-sin Piper Dalton, come to his rescue is just the remedy he needs. Piper is her snarky self, and she kind of sucks at caregiving, but she’s owned his heart for years, she’s got a way with the girls, and Harley would sure like to have his way with her. As things heat up between Piper and Harley, she warns him not to fall in love with her because she’ll only break his heart. Harley is the right man for that challenge—until he makes the biggest mistake of his life, and they begin to wonder if true love really can conquer all.

She Loves Me is a book I have been eager for, since I have loved the previous Harmony Point books and the related series. I have wanted Harley and Piper's story since I first met them, but readers that have never read a book from Foster will still be able to enjoy the read and get just as lost in their story. I love Piper, she is tough as nails but still so very vulnerable- just so used to hiding it. Harley is a big guy, always looking out for the people in his life, and any underdog. They have been dancing around each other for years, and events finally make it the perfect time for Harley to make his move. I love how they already know each other so well, but readers get a better look at them both. The respect and effort they each show in the process of figure each other, and themselves, out is an engaging story with some heart rending moments but plenty of sweet and heat as well. I simply loved Piper's character so much, her insecurities and less than stellar coping mechanisms spoke to me, as did how sweet and caring she was toward others even when she could not see it herself. There were moments when I thought Harley was a little too perfect, but the teasers for where Foster might focus her attentions next fixed some of that and made me ready to read on as soon as the next book is released.

She Loves Me is a solid contemporary romance with a good balance of heart and heat. Fans of the author will definitely want to read it. 

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: The Governess Affair (Brothers Sinister) by Courtney Milan

The Governess Affair is a prequel novella to the Brothers Sinister series by Courtney Milan. This author has been recommended to me multiple times- so over the holidays I bought the Sinister Brothers box set and have enjoyed every moment of binge reading it has brought me. If you enjoy historical romance with complex characters and conflicts this series is definitely for you.

Three months ago, governess Serena Barton was let go from her position. Unable to find new work, she’s demanding compensation from the man who got her sacked: a petty, selfish, swinish duke. But it’s not the duke she fears. It’s his merciless man of business—the man known as the Wolf of Clermont. The formidable former pugilist has a black reputation for handling all the duke’s dirty business, and when the duke turns her case over to him, she doesn’t stand a chance. But she can’t stop trying—not with her entire future at stake. Hugo Marshall is a man of ruthless ambition—a characteristic that has served him well, elevating the coal miner’s son to the right hand man of a duke. When his employer orders him to get rid of the pestering governess by fair means or foul, it’s just another day at the office. Unfortunately, fair means don’t work on Serena, and as he comes to know her, he discovers that he can’t bear to use foul ones. But everything he has worked for depends upon seeing her gone. He’ll have to choose between the life that he needs, and the woman he is coming to love

The Governess Affair is a story that captured my imagination from the very beginning- and while it resolved itself beautifully, I was left wanting more about all of the characters when it was over. Serena lost her position because of a selfish man. Hugo works for that man but is not blind of his faults- in fact he is much more aware of them than most. In his efforts to make his own future Hugo has done things that he is not proud of, but he has his limits. The battle of wills between Serena and Hugo was very well written- and they way each of their concerns and complications were addressed was as close to perfect as I have ever seen. I have never seen a better handling of consent and trust after abuse- and to see the respect and love this pair developed was lovely. My only problem was that I did not want to leave the characters behind- which was easily solved as I dove into The Duchess War immediately.

The Governess Affair is a lovely prequel that wrapped up well but left me eager for more about the characters. Fine as a stand alone or when read out of order, but I am very glad to read the story in chronological order. I think I have a new must buy author. I have since read most of this series and I recommend them all- including the novellas!

Early Book Review: Handle With Care (Veteran Movers) Marie Harte

Handle With Care is the third book in the Veteran Movers series Marie Harte and is currently scheduled for release on August 27 2019. While each of her books can be enjoyed as a stand alone, some of the character connections and personalities shine more for returning readers- so I highly recommend reading as a series.

Evan Griffith has done a lot in his life: a stint in the Marine Corps, life as an overworked CPA, investing in his family-owned moving company. But none of that holds a candle to helping people move. On an unforgettable job, he’s involved in a female-on-female brawl, taken by a teenage conman, and falls in love at first sight with a woman holding a knife. Yeah, his life has gone down the rabbit hole for sure. Kenzie Sykes is doing her best to raise her brother, keep him out of jail, and deal with a broken heart that still hasn’t healed. So of course the sexiest man she’s ever seen has to catch her on an off day. She doesn’t have time for romance. He’s not asking. Until he is, and she finds herself saying yes. Both of them have loved and lost before, but if there’s one thing Evan knows, it’s that Semper Fidelis is more than a motto, and that real men love hard, and honest men love true.

Handle With Care is a contemporary romance that, as I expect from Harte, touches on real problems and heartbreak that our main characters need to work through. Evan has been through a lot, and he is still working towards finding balance in his life. Kenzie is still dealing with trust issue, money issues, and trying to keep her brother in check. I like that neither were looking for love- but despite their fears and fighting against it they both fell hard. I do think that at times I had to agree with Kenzie in that Evan was just too perfect- even his fears and missteps were endearing. I did empathize with Kenzie's fears and doubts- and might have reacted the same to her situation, maybe. The panic when things are just going too well, waiting for things to suddenly go wrong again, is something very relatable. I really enjoyed hearing about and seeing characters from the previous books, and seeing the continuing story of Smith finding his place. I really cannot wait to see where this all goes from here.

Handle With Care is another winner from Harte. While not my favorite of her books, I still loved it and look forward to reading more!

Book Review: Middlegame by Seanan McGuire

Middlegame by Seanan McGuire is a stand alone, separate from her series. Meet Roger. Skilled with words, languages come easily to him. He instinctively understands how the world works through the power of story. Meet Dodger, his twin. Numbers are her world, her obsession, her everything. All she understands, she does so through the power of math. Roger and Dodger aren’t exactly human, though they don’t realize it. They aren’t exactly gods, either. Not entirely. Not yet. Meet Reed, skilled in the alchemical arts like his progenitor before him. Reed created Dodger and her brother. He’s not their father. Not quite. But he has a plan: to raise the twins to the highest power, to ascend with them and claim their authority as his own. Godhood is attainable. Pray it isn’t attained.

Middlegame was a harder start for me than most of McGuire's book, I think it was just the amount of information necessary to set up the characters and the story. However, once I got past the first couple chapters I was hooked and I was immersed in McGuire's imagination once again. The world and character building is wonderful, and the story id complex with lots of nuisance. I thought the relationship between Roger and Dodger was fascinating, and while there were times I did not agree with their choices, I could always understand the reasoning behind it. There were so many different ways the story could have gone at every turn, and sometimes they do go multiple ways. I would hate to ruin any of the surprises the book holds for new readers so I will refrain for going into details about the action and important plot points. Just know that I found this to be darker and more dense than I was really prepared for- and had I picked it up at a different time it might have been exactly what I was looking for. It was extremely well written, and the mythos built for the story was absolutely amazing, I just had trouble connecting with the characters and enjoying the read as much as I had expected. I honestly think the issue was more with me than the book, and I will continue to read everything I can from McGuire. 

As an aside, since I had trouble getting into the book the first time I started reading it, I got it via Audible and listened to it. Amber Benson is the narration- and she does some amazing voices which helped me keep track of who was talking and a better understanding of their characters. Regardless of how you read this, do not skip the chapter intros- which I admit to having done with other books, they are important and will help with the greater understanding of the story.

Middlegame has exceptional world and mythos building with complex characters and plot line. Something did not grab me as much as I had expected, which I think has more to do with my mood than the book, but it was not my favorite of McGuire's. I will still keep on reading all of their urban fantasy.

Early Book Review: 28 Dates (Crazy Love) by Stacy Lynn

28 Dates is the third book in the Crazy Love series by Stacy Lynn. It is currently scheduled for release on June 11 2019. Each of the books in this series can be read on its own, but returning characters make reading the books together even better. 

 

Caitlin Pappas is a lifelong commitment-phobe. The closest thing she’s had to a relationship in the last few years was a friends-with-benefits thing that fizzled out because the guy wanted more. So when she and her best friend design a new app that promises to find “the one”, Caitlin is the perfect guinea pig. Little does she know that she may have already met her match. Jonas Reeves has tried his best to move on after Caitlin didn’t want take things to the next level. Now they really are just friends, without benefits. Caitlin’s even a regular at his bar, The Dirty Martini. But when he learns that Caitlin plans to beta-test a new dating app on his home turf, Jonas senses a golden opportunity to win her heart. Even if he has to slide into her DMs to do it. 

28 Dates is a romance with lots of heart, and emotion but less heat than I have come to expect. This is not a bad thing, it works perfectly with this story. If there had been more heat I think it would have destroyed some of the character and story building that made the tension and story itself so poignant. Caitlin has little faith in love, after having a less than stellar history with family and support. However, great friends have lowered some of her walls- and lingering feelings for Jonas confuse and worry her. Jonas is confidant that real love exists, and he wants a future with Caitlin enough to risk everything. I love the conversations they have, and how hard they work to keep the other around even when they think friendship is all they will ever have. I really loved the secondary characters and how everything comes together for our couple, in spite of themselves. This was a feel good love story that often had me smiling as I read.

The only thing that bothered me has nothing to do with the writing, but with the cover. Caitlin's red hair is mentioned many, many times in the story- but the cover model clearly is not a redhead. I know the author does not always have say in the cover image, but I would hope that someone along the way would check character descriptions against cover images. Just saying.

28 Dates is another novel with heart from Lynn. I love the writing style and depth of character. I think all fans of the author will be thrilled with this offering, and be waiting for what ever she does next. 

Early Book Review: Smooth Moves (Movin' On) by Marie Harte

Smooth Moves is the second book in the Movin' On series by Marie Harte. It is not necessary to have read the previous book to enjoy this book, but I highly recommend it, and not just because Harte is currently one of my favorite contemporary romance authors. This book is currently scheduled for release on May 28 2019.

Former Marine Cash Griffith is a brawny beacon for trouble, always finishing a fight that someone else starts. Working at his family's moving company, he does his best to keep a low profile, but he can't help but tangle with the newest employee, Jordan Fleming. When Jordan joins Vets on the Go! she has her hands full with her new job and her rebellious teenage brother, not to mention going toe to toe with the obnoxious, arrogant, incredibly hot Marine at work. Soon their battles turn to camaraderie, and one kiss leads to a connection neither of them expected. But when dark secrets come to light, will their bond break or strengthen into a happily-ever-after they desperately desire?

Smooth Moves is an example of great characters writing and development. I thought Cash and Jordan (and her brother Rafi) all have issues and grow as they face their issues through out the book. None of them hide behind their troubles, although they do sometimes try to hide that it exists from each other. I found the honesty in which some serious issues are dealt with to be refreshing and heartening. I found the conversations between characters and the interactions to be realistic and highly entertaining. I seriously had a goofy grin on my face for the majority of the read, particularly during some of the pranks and conversations between Jordan and Cash. I like that Rafi's issues are talked about and some of the stigma that some might feel in his place, and how easy it is for generally good kids to make bad choices, is handled with such heart. I wish every kid in his position had a Jordan backing him up. I simply love Harte's voice and character development in this book (and in all of hers that I have read thus far). I highly recommend adding her to the must read for anyone that likes realistic, contemporary romance.

Smooth Moves is another fantastic read by Harte with equal parts humor, heat, and heat. I found myself ginning like a fool through a good portion of the read and cannot wait for more!

Other Things I Have Been Reading

Confession time folks. I read and listen to some books that I do not review. Yes really! I have no excuse for why I often fail to review my non-netgalley books, but this means I often neglect some great books. I want to share some of my favorites with you as I struggle to find the time to write proper reviews so I can spread the love for some long time favorite authors, and share some recently discovered authors.

Some I found on Kindle Unlimited, some are Audible audio books, and some are from the local library. If I am bringing them up here, it is because I enjoyed the read and want others that might not have given them a try to be encouraged to do so, and to bring attention to them. I feel bad that I have been neglecting such wonderful authors review wise, but this is my first step in fixing that. 

First off, some of my favorite urban fantasy authors that I have been listening to via Audible. I love diving into the worlds of Ilona Andrews, Sherrilyn Kenyon, and Seanan McGuire.  I have rarely been disappointed by anything these three have written, and when I am it is mainly because I want more before it is ready. Although I am willing to wait for more, because I would hate to pressure them or have them rush through something instead of keeping true to their vision and quality level. If you like urban fantasy with some romance and fabulous world building start at the beginning of a series from one of these three and you can thank me later. 

Some of my new discoveries via Kindle Unlimited have had me binge reading between Netgalley arcs. Pippa Grant has became a favorite for funny romance. I am loving her series that rather rotates around a hockey team and their friends and family. I am both envious of the wacky characters and their exploits and glad that my family and friends are much calmer. I also started out loving Missy Johnson's Awkward Love series, but I am losing momentum there. Maybe I just did too many in a row, but they are losing the shine for me.

I also cannot sing my praises loud or long enough for Anyta Sunday. Their romances get me in the feels every time. The Signs of Love series and the Enemies to Lovers series  are both must reads for me. These M-M romances are as much about people finding their place in the world and figuring out both who they are and what they want as they are about finding love. I simply adore them, and am always left eager for what comes next. 

I also read the start to a new series that I will be following, but left me disgruntled with a cliff hanger ending. Wolf Hunted by Sadie Moss was a great read. Paranormalish adventure with hints of romance and suspense. The sequel was just released, but will have to wait in the penalty box (reading too much about Grant's hockey players) until I am ready to forgive the cliffhanger. 

I need to get on reviewing these too, so I can share the love. But, until that happens I needed to share how much I love these authors. Do you have favorites that are automatic reads that you sometimes read but fail to review? Some you want to share the love for here? 

Early Book Review: Circle of the Moon (Soulwood) by Faith Hunter

Circle of the Moon is the fourth book in the Soulwood series by Faith Hunter. It is currently scheduled for release on February 26 2019. This series is set in the same world as Hunter's Jane Yellowrock series and there is some significant cross over. However, you can enjoy one series without the other. I do recommend reading the Soulwood series in order, as newcomers will be missing quite a bit of important backstory. Those that read all of Hunter's books (like me) will get the most out of the story because of the interrelated characters. 

Nell can draw magic from the land around her, and lately she's been using it to help the Psy-Law Enforcement Division, which solves paranormal crimes. Joining the team at PsyLED has allowed her to learn more about her powers and the world she always shunned--and to find true friends. Head agent Rick LaFleur shifts into a panther when the moon calls him, but this time, something has gone wrong. Rick calls Nell from a riverbank--he's naked, with no memory of how he came to be there, and there's a dead black cat, sacrificed in a witch circle and killed by black magic. Then more animals turn up dead, and team rushes to investigate. A blood-witch is out to kill. But when it seems as if their leader is involved in the crime, the bonds that hold the team together could shatter at any moment.

Circle of the Moon is just as complex and exciting to read as everything else I have read from Hunter. I will admit that it has been long enough since the previous book in the series that I had to go back and look at my thoughts on the previous book to make sure I was up to speed before getting too far into the story, and I wished I have revisited the most recent Yellowrock book as well. There is a lot going on here, and I had to give the book my full attention to take in all the character and story line development. Nell continues to grow into her independence and understanding who and what she can be in the world. Mud, Rick, and Occam are only a few of the secondary characters that I loved getting to know better as the story progressed. The mystery and case that the unit is working on, and the people that become part of the larger story because of it, are very well done, and some are fascinating in their own right, even without the ties to Jane's story. The magic circles, vampires, and magic flying around are complicated and tangled, leaving the characters and most readers puzzled as to the end game, at least until it is almost too late. My only complaint with this book is that at times it felt too complicated and tied in with Jane's story that I think those that for one reason or another have not read those as well will be even more lost in the tangle of stories than those of us who think we are all caught up. That being said, when the book was over, I only wanted more, so I still consider it a must read for fans.

Circle of the Moon is another wonderful read by Hunter. This book had me wanting to go back and reread some Jane Yellowrock, and hoping that the stories written in this world continue on. 

Early Book Review: The Whole Package (Movin' On) by Marie Harte

The Whole Package is the first book in the Movin' On series by Marie Harte. It is currently scheduled for release on January 29 2019. Always the caretaker, former Marine Reid Griffith wants to help his brother adjust to civilian life...and help other former servicemen. What better way to utilize their brawn, discipline, and charm than a moving company that hires veterans? But although Reid prides himself on being strategic, he certainly doesn't plan to fall in the spotlight of one brilliant—and beautiful—PR whiz. PR expert Naomi Starr is determined to bring Vets on the Go! into the spotlight. But when she meets Reid, it might mean breaking her rule to never mix business with pleasure. Especially once she discovers that underneath Reid's sexy rough-and-tumble exterior is a vulnerable man who just might need what she's got to give.

The Whole Package is a high octane romance with all of the heat and emotional complications that I have come to expect from Harte, but less of the danger in comparison to her other contemporary romance series. I liked the characters, and enjoyed getting to know the main players, and the secondary characters well. I thought Maomi was a very well developed character, with lots of strength and personality, as well as her fair share of flaws. Reid is similar, in that he has his strength, and his hangups. I greatly enjoyed the interactions between them, and their own internal struggles with the relationship and how it might affect their lives, and those they care for most. I liked the subtle tie in to previous series from the author, with the gym and a couple secondary characters. It was not enough to confuse new readers, just little presents for returning readers. 

The Whole Package is exactly what I expect from Harte. A solid story with characters and interactions that make me smile, fan myself, or both. This will be a must reads for fans of Harte, and her contemporary romances. I cannot wait for more from her, particularly Cash finding his HEA.

Book Review: Girl in the Green Silk Gown (Ghost Roads) by Seanan McGuire

Girl in the Green Silk Gown is the second book in the Ghost Road series, set in the same world as the InCryptid series) by Seanan McGuire. I do recommend reading the series in order so that the relationships have more meaning to readers. You do not need to have read the related series however, to fully enjoy this one.

For Rose Marshall, death has long since become the only life she really knows.  She’s been sweet sixteen for more than sixty years, hitchhiking her way along the highways and byways of America, sometimes seen as an avenging angel, sometimes seen as a killer in her own right, but always Rose, the Phantom Prom Date, the Girl in the Green Silk Gown.The man who killed her is still out there, thanks to a crossroads bargain that won’t let him die, and he’s looking for the one who got away.  When Bobby Cross comes back into the picture, there’s going to be hell to pay—possibly literally. Rose has worked for decades to make a place for herself in the twilight.  Can she defend it, when Bobby Cross comes to take her down?  Can she find a way to navigate the worlds of the living and the dead, and make it home before her hitchhiker’s luck runs out? There’s only one way to know for sure.

Girl in the Green Silk Gown is the next chapter in Rose's story. I was glad to get more of her story, and to get a better understanding of Laura's character. I was so proud of Rose for her ability to resist temptation at several turns, it would have been so easy for her to end up at the crossroads. However, her struggles with the changes she faces during the trip alternated between being hysterical and a little annoying as she whined about things. I really enjoyed her journey, and the lengths she goes through not just to get back to where she could be, but to also help others when she can, had me eager to see how things would resolve this time around. I am still waiting for Bobby to earn his due, and for a few other bits to resolve, but I am surely enjoying the ride.

Girl in the Green Silk Gown is another fantastic book from McGuire. My only problem is that her audio book reader is too good, and so I often hold out for that version rather than reading right away. But, the wait is oh so worth it!

Book Review: Sparrow Hill Road by Seanan Mcguire

Sparrow Hill Road by Seanan Mcguire is the first book in a new series, set in the same world as the Incryptid series but with new characters and dealing with the more ghostly residents. 

Rose Marshall died in 1952 in Buckley Township, Michigan, run off the road by a man named Bobby Cross—a man who had sold his soul to live forever, and intended to use her death to pay the price of his immortality. Trouble was, he didn’t ask Rose what she thought of the idea. It’s been more than sixty years since that night, and she’s still sixteen, and she’s still running. They have names for her all over the country: the Girl in the Diner. The Phantom Prom Date. The Girl in the Green Silk Gown. Mostly she just goes by “Rose,” a hitchhiking ghost girl with her thumb out and her eyes fixed on the horizon, trying to outrace a man who never sleeps, never stops, and never gives up on the idea of claiming what’s his. She’s the angel of the overpass, she’s the darling of the truck stops, and she’s going to figure out a way to win her freedom. After all, it’s not like it can kill her. You can’t kill what’s already dead.

Sparrow Hill Road was not what I expected, but in the very best ways. I was expecting something very much like the books I have already read from Mcguire, and while the skill and style were definitely on par the characters and legends felt fresh and new. Rose is a small town girl, turned ghost, dealing with her new 'life' as a hitchhiking ghost and her new obligations. I enjoyed getting to know Rose. While she honestly wants to help and do the right thing, she is not perfect. She has a temper, sometimes makes mistakes, and is sometimes too soft a touch. All of these traits come together to make her a wonderfully real character. The use of urban legends and well known ghost stories was wonderfully done, I have always been fascinated on how legends both ancient and more modern change and grow, so this was right up my alley. The action is paced well, giving nail biting moments interspersed with backstory and important character development. The secondary characters are not flat, while not quite as developed as Rose they are well layers and complex. Even the characters we only see for one interaction are not stereotypes or simple, they feel real and dynamic. Mcguire is wonderful at making characters that I feel like I know, and whose stories I just want more of after the book is over.

Sparrow Hill Road starts what i hope is another long and highly entertain series from Mcguire. In fact, I already have the next book, The Girl in the Green Silk Gown waiting for me on my kindle and I am looking forward to the read.

As a side note- if you prefer audio books I highly recommend giving this book a listen as well as her other books. I have listened to several books from her other series and while she does have a couple different narrators they are all wonderful. 

Book Review: The Turn by Kim Harrison

The Turn by Kim Harrison is the prequel to her well known Hollows series. A bonus for long time fans of Harrison's work, and a wonderful starting point for those that have been nervous about starting such a large series.

Can science save us when all else fails? Trisk and her hated rival, Kalamack, have the same goal, save their species from extinction. Death comes in the guise of hope when a genetically modified tomato created to feed the world combines with the government's new tactical virus, giving it an unexpected host and a mode of transport. Plague takes the world, giving the paranormal species an uncomfortable choice to stay hidden and allow humanity to die, or to show themselves in a bid to save them. Under accusations of scientific misconduct, Trisk and Kal flee across a plague torn United States to convince leaders of the major paranormal species to save their supposedly weaker kin, but not everyone thinks humanity should be saved. Kal surreptitiously works against her as Trisk fights the prejudices of two societies to prove that not only does humanity have something to offer, but that long-accepted beliefs against women, dark magic, and humanity itself can turn to understanding; that when people are at their worst that the best show their true strength, and that love can hold the world together as a new balance is found. 

 

The Turn is a fantastic look at how the world readers of the Hollows series love came to be. I really enjoyed getting to know Trisk and getting an understanding of her relationships with Kal, Quen, Daniel, and others as she works hard to maker a name for herself and do some good. I  thought the pacing, world building, and character building were very well done, and reminded me why I fell in love with Harrison's writing style when I first started reading her work. Trisk is strong and independent- but far from perfect. She has her flaws, as do all the characters. I like that even though she is our narrator, her thoughts and actions still sometimes surprised me and proved herself to be more complex a character than I thought. Even Kal, who is a pretty horrible guy, has more layers and complexity than I expected. Even though I knew he was a rat I still occasionally had hope that the moments of his better nature would overwhelm the rest. I was continually at the edge of my seat wondering what they would do next, and what twists and turns each would trigger next. 

Fans reading this will enjoy seeing familiar faces, and  learning how some of the connections came about. I thought that the balance of characters and situations that were hints and little thrills for fans, and how well the book explains the world and introduces the characters for newcomers was as close to perfect as I have seen, and I enjoyed every minute of the read. This read has me eager to go back andre read the series, and make sure I did not miss any installments. 

The Turn is a book I wish I had gotten around to much earlier. I loved revisiting the Hollows and getting a better understanding of how it all started. Fans and newcomers alike will enjoy this read.

Book Review: Dark Queen (Jane Yellowrock) by Faith Hunter

Dark Queen is the twelfth book in the Jane Yellowrock series by Faith Hunter. You do need to read this series in order to get a firm grasp on the characters and the relationships. I do not recommend jumping in here, or in the middle. However, it is a fabulous series so I do recommend reading it, it is worth it.

As Enforcer to the vampire Master of the City of New Orleans, Jane Yellowrock stakes her reputation and her life on keeping her territory safe. But Leo has been issued a blood challenge by the emperor of the European vampires, who seeks to usurp all of his power and possessions. If Leo loses the match to the death, the city will be forfeit, and the people of New Orleans will suffer the consequences. Jane can't let that happen. Preparing for the duel requires all of Jane's focus, but with so much supernatural power in play, nothing goes according to plan. She has to rely on herself and the very few people she knows she can trust to stand and fight. Only two things are guaranteed: nothing is sacred, and no one is safe.

Dark Queen is more than I expected. I will admit that I have listened to the majority of this series via audiobook (and the readers is fabulous!) and I missed the voices, inflections, and cadence of the reader. My inner voice cannot compare to the audiobooks. However, after a while I was able to get past my longing for that voice and truly get sucked into the story like I always do. Jane has so much going on- still coming to terms with caring about so many people and her inability to protect them all the way she wants. Emotions are not her forte, and I can relate to her on that level. The upcoming battle, issues tied to the timeshifting, the brother coming out of nowhere, and more are all coming at her too fast to process, and she is barely hanging on. There are surprises and resolutions tied into the duel and not a dull moment to skim. Readers that have loved and followed the series thus far will both love and hate this read. I admit to fearing that this might be the last we see of Jane more than once, and worry just what will happen in this world next. I almost expected a different twist at the end, and had mixed feelings with the reveal- even though I already had it in the back of my mind. The ending left me needing the next Yellowrock or Soulwood book badly, to see what is to come, but hopeful. 

Dark Queen is a powerful addition to the series, and held some twists that had me seriously worried, and struck oddly close to home because of current family complications. 

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.