Review: Kitty Goes to Washington by Carrie Vaughn

My Rating: G, B, L

Published: 2006
Publisher: Fantast, Warner Books

Author's Website: carrievaughn.com

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

The country’s only celebrity werewolf, late-night radio host Kitty Norville. Prefers to be heard, not seen. But when she’s invited to testify at a Senate hearing on behalf of supernaturals, her face gets plastered on national TV. Kitty’s been in hot water before, but jumping into the D.C. underworld brings a new set of problems. And a new set of friends and enemies, including the vampire mistress of the city; an uber-hot Brazilian were-jaguar; and a paranoid, Bible-thumping senator who wants to expose Kitty as a monster. Kitty quickly learns in this city of dirty politicians and backstabbing pundits, everyone’s itching for a fight.

Kitty Goes to Washington is the second book in the Kitty Norville series by Carrie Vaughn. This book is full of mystery, fun and death. What good book doesn’t’ have these elements?

Kitty is currently hosting her talk show in many locations as she left her pack, who also run her out of town, in Denver. This is the first time hat Kitty has been on her own since becoming a werewolf. The pack gave her the feeling of family, stability and made her feel safe. Now she is out in the big old bad world by herself. Trouble seems to follow Kitty wherever she goes, although this time she was subpoenaed into it. She has to go Washington D.C. to testify to a committee on the subject of paranatural biology.

During her stint in D.C. Kitty meets some interesting characters. First there is the scientist called Dr. Paul Flemming, the Mistress of the local vampires, Alette, a werejaguar named Luis who is also Kitty’s love interest of the week, a werewolf named Ahmed who owns a very special club called Crescent that has a very unique and restricted clientele and a psychic called Jeffrey Miles who can see people’s auras and speak to dead people.

Some mysteries unfurl in this book. We find out who Elijah Smith is. The scientist’s hidden agenda is unveiled. A vampire’s underhandedness is found out but he causes a trail of destruction behind him before his maker finds out. Also, we find out more about Cormac and Ben and how they came to know one another.

My favourite part of the book was when Kitty, Jeffrey and a news reporter, Roger Stockton, go on a reconnaissance mission to find out more about Elijah Smith. They get more than they bargained for and come up against a horde of vampires and werewolves. This is how we find out who Elijah Smith really is and then we get to see Kitty get her hands dirty with help from her comrades.

I think there is more to come of Kitty in this series. She is only just beginning to develop as a character. In the first book she was finding her feet and beginning to stand up for herself. In this book she is standing up for others who are not known to the humans. These creatures keep themselves to themselves and they have let Kitty speak for them – not that she had much choice in the matter. But Kitty does the job in a business-like and graceful manner. Kitty is just beginning to breach the surface of her potential as a radio DJ with her talk show. She has a lot more talent that I think we have yet to see.

Overall, I enjoyed this book even thought I couldn’t read it as often as I wished so when I picked it up I did get a bit confused as to where I was. Once I found my place I was able to enjoy the adventures that Kitty was on. I liked the fact that she found others like herself and felt like she was part of something and that she wasn’t just the lone wolf.

Disclaimer: I do not own this book, I borrowed it from my local library. I have not been paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

In My Mailbox...(7)

In My Mailbox is a meme that is hosted by The Story Siren every Sunday.

Unfortunately, I never received any books this week :( But it will soon be pay day and I think it's time to treat myself to some new books.

I'm looking for something that is either urban fantasy, paranormal romance or YA. You guys got any good suggestions?

Happy reading =)

Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce Giveaway (Daisy Chain Book Reviews)

Hi Folks,

Daisy Chain Book Reviews is giving away a copy of Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce.

Head over to her site here to take part.

Happy blogging =)

Blog Hop...(4)

Blog Hop is a meme that is hosted by Crazy For Books each Friday until Monday.

This is my fourth hop and I have found some awesome blogs! Come on, join in on the hop! It's worth it ;)

Hop, hop, hop away!! Have a great weekend folks!

Review: Witch Blood by Anya Bast

My Rating: VG, B, X

Published: 2008
Publisher: Berkley Sensation

Author's Website: anyabast.com

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

A water witch, Isabelle Novak has always led a chaotic, nomadic existence. But her life spins out of control when her sister – her only friend and emotional anchor – is killed by a demon. Driven by grief and a desire for revenge, she turns her back on the Coven and its sacred rede: Harm ye none…

When Isabelle first encounters Thomas Monahan, she’s running on pure rage and sorrow, channelling her pain into power – and trying to freeze the life out of the warlock she holds responsible for her sister’s death. Together she and Thomas form an uneasy alliance to hunt and destroy a demon of tremendous power. As head of the Coven, earth witch Thomas must thwart Isabelle’s dark impulses, but his very presence stirs deeper desires she never knew she had…

Witch Blood is the second instalment in the Elemental Witches series by Anya Bast. If you like action, love scenes and demons then this is the book for you. It’s jam packed with them all.

Isabelle Novak is a very powerful water witch and is tracking a demon, but not just any demon. This demon killed her sister Angela. Isabelle is out for revenge. In her quest to find the demon, she has an encounter with the Coven and is taken into their protection and gets more than she bargained for in the shape of Thomas Monahan, leader of the Coven.

I was quite simply enthralled with this book. I loved Isabelle’s strong, independent character and her carefree travelling lifestyle. It seems to suit her to a tee until she meets Thomas Monahan that is. That man would definitely make you want to stay in one place. Thomas is caring, loving, very powerful and dominant. This is everything that Isabelle needs from man, especially the dominance. Thomas is the perfect match for her. But will she run away or will she stay?

It’s really hard to pick a favourite scene or chapter of the book as I enjoyed it all. But if I had to pick one moment, I think it would have to be during a moment between Thomas and Isabelle when she is learning more about his earth magick and how and where he stores it. I thought that was a really informative and intimate at the same time.

Overall, this book was a really enjoyable read and I am certainly going to continue with the series. I loved every minute that I read of the book and couldn’t put it down at times. The ending chapters really shocked me as I didn’t expect what happened and I love it when that happens. Witch Blood is definitely a page turner.

Disclaimer: I do not own this book, I borrowed it from the local library. I have not been paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

‘I’m taking part in the Transworld Dan Brown Summer Reading Challenge!’

Do you love to review books? Do you post reviews on Amazon? Are you an avid blogger? If you answered yes to any of these questions then the Transworld Summer Reading Challenge is for you!

To find out more info about the challenge go to the website here at Between the Lines.

I am going to be reading the following;

1. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown
2. Matters of the Heart by Danielle Steel
3. E Squared by Matt Beaumont
4. If I Stay by Gayle Forman
5. Prep by Curtis Sittenfeld
6. Forbidden Pleasures by Jo Rees
7. Exit Wound by Andy McNab
8. Second Hand Heart by Catherine Ryan Hyde
9. Assassin by Tom Cain
10. Bryant & May on the Loose by Christopher Fowler
11. Amberville by Tim Davys
12. After You by Julie Buxbaum
13. Lockdown by Sean Black
14. The Wish by Sasha Blake
15. 61 Hours by Lee Child

Let me know if you are taking part - would like to see reviews of the other books also!

Happy Reading!!!

Review: Full Moon Rising by Keri Arthur

My Rating: VG, B, X

Published: 2006
Publisher: Piatkus

Author's Website: keriarthur.com

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

A rare hybrid of vampire and werewolf, Riley Jenson and her twin brother, Rhoan, work for Melbourne’s Directorate of Other Races, an organisation created to police the supernatural races – and protect humans from their depredations. While Rhoan is an exalted guardian, a.k.a. assassin, Riley is merely an office worker – until her brother goes missing on one of his missions. The timing couldn’t be worse. More werewolf than vampire, Riley is vulnerable to the moon heat, the weeklong period before the full moon, when her need to mate becomes all-consuming…

Luckily Riley has two willing partners to satisfy her every need. But she will have to control her urges if she’s going to find her brother…

Full Moon Rising is the first book in the Riley Jenson Guardian series by Keri Arthur. This book is exploding with action and sexual encounters. It will certainly have you sitting on the edge of your seat with anticipation.

Our half vampire, half werewolf, Riley Jenson is just another Directorate liaison officer until her brother goes missing. She then has to delve deeper into the Guardian world than she has ever wanted to and along the way she meets an extremely, unavailable naked vampire.

This book covers a lot of action for the adrenaline junkies out there and a lot of descriptive sex scenes for the nymphomaniacs. We see Riley getting down and dirty with a couple of different wolves who she has selected carefully to satisfy her needs. Both can give her what she wants in different ways, which pleases Riley as this is how she likes it.

Riley is a very confident woman, both in her human and wolf form. She is sure of who and what she is. She knows she doesn’t want to become a Guardian no matter what even though her boss would like that to change and she knows she doesn’t want to die. Pushing Riley into situations she doesn’t agree with will set off the wolf in her, so watch out. I wouldn’t want to be close by.

Riley and Rhoan have kept what they are secret from their co-workers, lovers and friends. They have even kept the fact that they are twins hidden. Their secret is soon uncovered but what does this lead them into?

My favourite part of the book was all the flirting between Riley and Quinn. Got me hot and bothered just thinking about it. Also, there was a sibling protectiveness in a certain scene that had me thinking I am thankful that I am not that crazy wolf trying to kill anyone, especially not these creatures as they will rip your throat out.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book once I got into it. I did think it was lacking in some description regarding the shifting back and forth from human to wolf forms. I also got lost quite a bit with the timing in this book. I was never sure if it was night or day but that’s probably me just picking things up wrong. The plot was substantial and I was forever wondering where the author was going to take me next. I felt like I had seen all there was in this world and all the horrible things that could happen if I was a werewolf by halfway through the book, but I was wrong. There was more. This book kept me on my toes and I like that.

Disclaimer: I do not own this book, I borrowed it from my local library. I have not been paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

In My Mailbox...(6)

In My Mailbox is a meme that is hosted by The Story Siren every Sunday.

I bought Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris (I have read it but I think I might re-read it before I write a review). I got Covet by JR Ward and Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning from the library.

It’s all about family…

If you think your relationships are complicated think again: you haven’t seen anything like the ones in Bon Temps, Louisiana. Sookie Stackhouse is dealing with a whole host of family problems, ranging from her own kin (a non-human fairy and a telepathic second cousin) demanding a place in her life, to her lover Eric’s vampire sire, an ancient being who arrives with Eric’s ‘brother’ in tow at a most inopportune moment. And Sookie’s tracking down a distant relation of her ailing neighbour (and ex), Vampire Bill Compton.

In addition to the multitude of family issues complicating her life, the werewolf pack of Shreveport has asked Sookie for a special favour, and since Sookie is an obliging young woman, she agrees. But this favour for the wolves has dire results for Sookie, who is still recovering from the trauma of her abduction during the Fairy War.

Redemption isn’t a word Jim Heron knows much about – his speciality is revenge and, to him, all sin is relative. But everything changes when he becomes a fallen angel and is charged with saving the souls of seven people from the seven deadly sins. And failure is not an option.

Vin Di Pietro long ago gave himself up to his business – until fate intervenes in the form of a tough-talking, Harley-riding, self-professed saviour, and a woman who makes him question his destiny. With an ancient evil ready to claim him, Vin has to work with a fallen angel not only to win his beloved over…but to redeem his very soul.

My name is MacKayla, Mac for short. I’m a sidhe-seer, one who sees the Fae, a fact I accepted only recently and very reluctantly.

My philosophy is pretty simple – any dat nobody’s trying to kill me is a good day in my book. I haven’t had many good days lately. Not since the walls between Man and Fae come down. But then, there’s not a sidhe-seer alive who’s had a good day since then.

When MacKayla’s sister was murdered, she left a single clue to her death – a cryptic message on Mac’s cell phone. Journeying to Ireland in a search of answers, Mac is soon faced with an even greater challenge: staying alive long enough to master a power she had no idea she possessed – a gift that allows her to see beyond the world of man, into the dangerous realm of the Fae.

As Mac delves deeper into the mystery of her sister’s death, her every move is shadowed by the dark, mysterious Jericho…while at the same time, the ruthless V’lane – an alpha Fae who makes sex an addiction for human women – he closes in on her. As the boundary between worlds begins to crumble, Mac’s true mission becomes clear: to find the elusive Sinsar Dubh before someone else claims the all-powerful Dark Book – because whoever gets to it first hols nothing less than complete control of both worlds in their hand…

What did you guys get?

Review: Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris

My Rating: E, E, B

Published: 2010
Publisher: Orion Publishing Group

Author's Website: charlaineharris.com

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

It’s all about family…

If you think your relationships are complicated think again: you haven’t seen anything like the ones in Bon Temps, Louisiana. Sookie Stackhouse is dealing with a whole host of family problems, ranging from her own kin (a non-human fairy and a telepathic second cousin) demanding a place in her life, to her lover Eric’s vampire sire, an ancient being who arrives with Eric’s ‘brother’ in tow at a most inopportune moment. And Sookie’s tracking down a distant relation of her ailing neighbour (and ex), Vampire Bill Compton.

In addition to the multitude of family issues complicating her life, the werewolf pack of Shreveport has asked Sookie for a special favour, and since Sookie is an obliging young woman, she agrees. But this favour for the wolves has dire results for Sookie, who is still recovering from the trauma of her abduction during the Fairy War.

Life in Bon Temps, Louisiana is always interesting…

Dead in the Family is the highly anticipated tenth novel in the Sookie Stackhouse series by Charlaine Harris. Sookie is once again having to help out the local werewolf pack and deal with unruly vampires. At the same time she is reconnecting with those that she stopped having proper relationships with when she delved deeper into the supernatural world.

In this book we meet Eric’s maker, Appius, and his new brother, Alexei. We are introduced to another child of Lorena’s, who may or may not be able to help Bill’s ongoing silver poisoning. Claude moves in with Sookie and we get to see a different side to him. Hunter returns and the moments with him are very warm and cute.

Alcide once again gets Sookie involved in pack matters and when she is meant to just be on the sidelines. She gets hauled in and is butt deep in weres before she can say ‘bite me’. The ever growing pack are on edge constantly in this book until it comes to a climax, but the threat is still there. Now they need to decide how to get rid of it.

Bill is in some serious pain and needs help. He has started giving up on everything, life and even his work. Sookie feels real bad for him and wants to help, but she doesn’t know how. Eventually Sookie gets an idea and tries her hand at helping him.

Appius is a force to be reckoned with and Sookie doesn’t like him one bit. Being around him as well as Eric’s new sibling, it sets Sookie at unease. She can feel what Eric is feeling and it doesn’t help matters. Eric’s brother needs help, but the question is will he take the help provided or bite the hand that feeds him?

Trouble is brewing in Shreveport and soon it’s going to become a storm. Eric and Sookie are feeling the strain of Eric’s family, Appius and Alexei, being around but with this added stress it soon takes a toll on their time together. Sookie wants the trouble maker dead, but does she get her wish?

My favourite part of this book was the first time, I think, Sookie takes us to Eric’s house and they basically lunge for each other as you would if you had not seen one another for a long period of time. The description of Eric’s house was amazing and you just know that a man with that much money and power has to have some serious taste and he does. Also I like the moment between Sookie and Pam when she is driving Sookie back to Bon Temps after seeing Eric.

I was very happy to find out that one of my speculations regarding the fairy that wants to do Sookie harm was right. This made my day when I read about who the fairy was and why they wanted to hurt Sookie, I practically punched my fist in the air with glee.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I thought it lacked the action as previous books but I am sure Charlaine is building up to this. Dead in the Family wrapped up some loose ends regarding Sookie and Eric’s feeling towards one another, Sookie’s relationship with Bill and Alcide and getting her life back on track. Eventually Sookie’s life starts to take on a more normal appearance. Well as normal as a mind reader, dating a very powerful vampire that happens to be her husband and being related to fairy’s can be.

Disclaimer: I bought this book with my own money. I have not been paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

Review: Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs

My Rating: E, P, B

Published: 2009
Publisher: Orbit

Author's Website: patriciabriggs.com

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

Car mechanic and sometime shapeshifter Mercy Thompson has learned – the hard way – why her race was almost exterminated. When European vampires emigrated to North America, they found Mercy’s people had a hidden talent for vampire slaying. Unfortunately for Mercy, the queen of the local vampire seethe has discovered her true identity.

The undead queen is also furious when she learns Mercy has crossed her and killed one of her own. Mercy may be protected from direct reprisals by the werewolf pack (and her interesting relationship with its Alpha), but that means Marsilia will come after Mercy some other way. So Mercy had better prepare to watch her back.

Bone Crossed is the fourth novel in the Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs. Once again I wasn’t disappointed by this series. We see action, quite a lot of action, and some amorous moments.

Mercedes Thompson is still getting over the attack from a few months ago but with the help of those around her she manages to slowly overcome her panic attacks and starts to enjoy life again. Whilst this is going on, Marsilia, the Mistress of the local vampire seethe, finds out about Stefan’s disloyalty by covering for Mercy when she killed not only one but two vampires. She doesn’t take too kindly to this revelation and punishes those who are guilty of wronging her.

We meet a new character that is from Mercy’s past in this book under suspicious circumstances but yet Mercy helps her which leads her into more trouble. But all this unravels as you read the book. I wasn’t able to put this book down for long before I had to start reading it again.

My favourite part of this book was when Adam was helping Mercedes get over her anxiety attacks. I don’t want to say what or how he helps her as this will give away some of the story. But I like his methods. Oh and finding out something interesting about Ben, that was a nice little tid bit of information.

Finally my suspicions were confirmed in this book about Mercy’s suitors. I was right that she had three love interests at one time. I’m interested as to what is next for Mercy. She has had a bad life as it is with all the people that have been coming after her, left, right, centre and from behind. She never seems to have a minute alone to herself or have a day where nothing bad happens. Even on a date, something bad happens and she has to rush in to help.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book as I have the series and can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Patricia Briggs is one hell of a writer and I love the characters she has created.

Disclaimer: I do not own this book, I borrowed it from the library. I have not been paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

Blog Hop...(3)

Blog Hop is a meme that is hosted by Crazy For Books each Friday until Monday.

This is my third time doing the blog hop and I love it! It's a great way to meet other book bloggers! I have found some serious cool bloggers doing the blog hop!

Come on..do the hop! You know you want to :)

Review: The Lunatic Cafe by Laurell K. Hamilton

My Rating: E, P, B

Published: 1996
Publisher: Orbit

Author's Website: laurellkhamilton.org

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

‘You don’t volunteer for slugfests with vampires. IT shortens you life expectancy.’

And you don’t fall in love with a werewolf. It interferes with your work. Especially when you’re a preternatural expert, like me. My business brings me up close and personal with all shapes and sizes of monsters. And not all of them want to kill me.

Take, for instance, the local pack of lycanthropes – they’re werewolves to you. A number of them are missing and they’ve come to me for help. Maybe because I’m dating the leader of the pack. I’ve survives a lot – from jealous vampires to killer zombies – but this love thing may kill me yet.

The Lunatic Café is the fourth novel in the Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter series by Laurell K. Hamilton. Once again this series doesn’t disappoint, we have a glorious love triangle going on for our heroine Anita Blake, a murder mystery and some crazy cops.

Well, what can I say? This book did not disappoint me at all. I enjoyed every minute of reading this book. We meet the local werewolf pack in this story and they are as vicious as they are made out to be, beasts, not human. Well some of them are, there are some nice ones, like Richard. Anita is once again left fighting for her life, and it’s in quite a precarious situation but then it would have to be, it’s Anita.

Anita has a bit of a challenging time in this book. She has two men vying for her love and attention but they are both monsters, going by her definition. Who will she choose? Anita has a murder mystery to help solve with the preternatural squad as well as chastise her boss constantly about the type of clients he is sending her. They are not her usual cases and she refuses to take any more, she’s an animator and vampire executioner not a private investigator. Bert however just sees the dollar signs and says yes.

Edward makes a reappearance in this book which I am happy about. He’s such an intriguing character. There’s a hidden depth underneath that homicidal exterior. What I want to know is what makes Edward tick? We know he kills for money and for the challenge of things, but what makes him mad, what does he do when he’s not with Anita or out killing his targets? I hope we get to find out. I don’t think anything will happen between him and Anita, they are just sort of friends. When he isn’t thinking about torturing or killing her if she doesn’t give him the information he wants.

Richard, this is a guy I could grow to like. I liked him in the first book for a while until I remembered he was first introduced as a naked guy having some kind of sexual relations with another werewolf. He was quite comfortable in this situation which I thought was rather odd. Anyway, in this book, Anita and he are still dating but the strain is showing. Richard tries to be overprotective a bit too much for Anita, but then she is being slightly hypocritical. Will their relationship last?

This leaves Jean Claude. He’s our ultimate bad guy, but he is so charming about it. Jean Claude is still trying to win Anita’s affection by being underhanded. But then what do you expect from a master vampire? I don’t know what else to say about him except that he is a viable suitor for Anita, but I’m not sure he will be the one she ends up with. Then again, I could be wrong. I can’t wait to find out as I read the series.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will continue to read and review the series. I would recommend this book/series to anyone who enjoys a more in depth plot line that involves all shapes and sizes of the supernatural.

Disclaimer: I do not own this book, I borrowed it from my local library. I have not been paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

I won an award!!

This is the first time I have received this award and it's all thanks to Addicted To Romance! Thank You! :)

Right now the rules of the award are that I have to tell you seven things about me, so here goes;

1. I have a cat, her name is Jazz

2. I have nearly 200 DVD's

3. It was my birthday last week

4. I'm a Gleek

5. I an Eric/Sookie shipper

6. My favourite colours are blue, pink and purple.

7. I prefer Vampire Diaries the tv show over the books (I still like the books but I love the show more)

Right the next step is to select 15 people to pass this award onto, so here goes;

1. The Thrillionth Page

2. Tynga's Reviews

3.The Story Siren

4. Fantasy4Eva

5. Welcome To Larissa's Bookish Life

6. Paper Between Our Fingers

7. Bitten by Paranormal Romance

8. Book Whore

9. Book <3 Soulmates

10. Good Golly Miss Holly Books

11. Trisha's Book Blog

12. The Eclectic Book Lover

13. The Hiding Spot

14. Parajunkee's View

15. Just Another Bookworm...

Rules:

1. Thank and link the person who gave you this award.

2. Share seven things about yourself

3. Pass the award to fifteen other bloggers who you think are fantastic and have recently discovered (this doesn't have to be in any particular order)

4. Contact the bloggers that you have picked and let them know about the award

Review: The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer

My Rating: G, P, L

Published: June 2010
Publisher: Atom

Authpr's Website: stepheniemeyer.com

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

Bree Tanner can barely remember life before she had uncannily powerful senses, superhuman reflexes and unstoppable physical strength. Life before she had a relentless thirst for blood…life before she became a vampire.

All Bree knows is that living with her fellow newborns has few certainties and even fewer rules: watch your back, don’t draw attention to yourself and, above all, make it home by sunrise or die. What she doesn’t know: her time as an immortal is quickly running out.

Then Bree finds an unexpected friend in Diego, a newborn just as curious as Bree about their mysterious creator, whom they know only as her. As they come to realize that the newborns are pawns in a game larger than anything they could have imagine, Bree and Diego must choose sides and decide whom to trust. But when everything you know about vampires is based on a lie, how to do you find the truth?

The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner is a novella, part of the Twilight series, by Stephenie Meyer. This novella gives a bit more of an insight into the newborns rebirth, how they lived and how they come to die at the hand of the Cullens.

Bree Tanner was just fifteen when she was turned into a vampire. She keeps herself to herself from the other newborns and cowers away when things get rough. One night out hunting she befriends another, older, newborn Diego, and they become close friends. They begin to think that their existence has a reason above fighting amongst themselves and fulfilling their thirsts, but what that purpose is that and when was Riley going to clue them in on it?

I’m not sure what I expected from this book. I wasn’t absolutely thrilled after reading it but it was nice to know what it life was like for the newborns. They were lied to and threatened on countless occasions. They were convinced that they had to kill the Cullens before they killed them. They were told they couldn’t go out in the sunlight or else they would go up in flames and be reduced to ashes. Riley would pull their limbs apart, literally, if they did not follow direct orders. They were basically lambs being sent out to be slaughtered.

I feel bad for them because they didn’t really have a choice in this way of life but to be turned into a vampire for the sole purpose to fight the Cullens for their creator, who doesn’t even have the nerve to show herself to them. Not even before going into battle, which could have been the least that Victoria could have done. But I suppose this wouldn’t fit in with Victoria’s character if she was to actually give a damn about anyone but herself.

I think my favourite part of the book was in the cave where it’s just Bree and Diego and they are trying to come up with a handshake for their secret club. I thought that was a cute and personal moment between the two of them. It seems neither of them had anyone that cared about them before they died and that this is a new emotion to them both. I thought that was sweet.

Overall, I was happy to find out what happened to the newborns and how Bree came to be a vampire. This story shows exactly how devious and adamant Victoria was in her quest to killing Bella and Edward. What totally sidetracked me was the Volturi’s part in this plan. If only Aro knew, I’m sure he wouldn’t have stood for it.

Disclaimer: I own this book and it was given to me as a present. I have not been paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

Review: Mind Games by Carolyn Crane

My Rating: E, E, P

Published: 2010
Publisher: Ballantine Books (Spectra)

Author's Website: authorcarolyncrane.com

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

Justine Jones has a secret. A hardcore hypochondriac, she’s convinced a blood vessel is about to burst in her brain. Then, out of the blue, a startling handsome man named Packard peers into Justine’s soul and invites her to join his private crime-fighting team. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime deal. With a litter of Packard’s hands-on training, Justine can weaponize her neurosis, turning it outwards on Midcity’s worst criminals, and finally get the freedom from fear she’s always craved. End of problem.

Or is it? In Midcity, a dashing police chief is fighting a unique breed of outlaw with more than human powers. And while Justine’s first missions, including one against a nymphomaniac husband-killer, are thrilling successes, there is more to Packard than meets the eye. Soon, while battling her attraction to two very different men, Justine is plunging deeper into a world of wizadry, eroticism, and cosmic secrets. With Packard’s help, Justine has freed herself from her madness – only to discover a reality more frightening than anyone’s worst fears.

Mind Games is the debut novel, first in a trilogy, of up and coming author Carolyn Crane. Her first novel is nothing like anything I have read before. It’s original and full of zing.

The first time I read the synopsis of this book, I wasn’t entirely sure if I would be my kind of book. But in the end I gave in and bought the it and I got really excited about getting to read it and I must say I was not disappointed in the slightest.

I was constantly on edge reading this book. I never knew what was going to happen in this story and what Justine was going to do next. She isn’t a girl that gets pushed around easily. We see her go from a very severe hypochondriac to an all powerful zinging machine that helps reform the humans of Midcity that can’t be proved guilty in court. Justine has help in the form of her disillusionist team mates, Shelby, Carter, Simon and Packard. But zinging comes at a cost.

Shelby has this dry humour about her and I absolutely loved her character to the bone. Carter is like my male double, especially when he is driving a car. Simon is the dangerous one in the group, he doesn’t always follow the rules and makes his own boundaries. Packard is the leader of the disillusionists, he formed the group and decides the cases they take on.

My absolute favourite part of the book was the scene with the pool, which is a lot further in the book. This is the turning point in the book which will cause readers to really think about the story. I know I got confused from here on as I didn’t know who was the good guy and who was the bad guy. The line seems to be really thin. I also love all the interaction that Justine has with Shelby and Simon. Although I didn’t like Simon to begin with, but he sort of grew on me.

This book is an absolute mind blower and I would recommend this to everyone. Seriously, just try it, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed. I wasn’t. I can’t wait for the next instalment in the series. I wonder what the disillusionists will get up to next.

Disclaimer: I bought this book with my own money and I am not paid to review this book in any way. Everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

In My Mailbox...(5)

In My Mailbox is a meme that is hosted by The Story Siren every Sunday.

I bought Mind Games. The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner was a birthday present and the rest of the books are borrowed from the library.

Justine Jones has a secret. A hardcore hypochondriac, she’s convinced a blood vessel is about to burst in her brain. Then, out of the blue, a startling handsome man named Packard peers into Justine’s soul and invites her to join his private crime-fighting team. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime deal. With a litter of Packard’s hands-on training, Justine can weaponize her neurosis, turning it outwards on Midcity’s worst criminals, and finally get the freedom from fear she’s always craved. End of problem.

Or is it? In Midcity, a dashing police chief is fighting a unique breed of outlaw with more than human powers. And while Justine’s first missions, including one against a nymphomaniac husband-killer, are thrilling successes, there is more to Packard than meets the eye. Soon, while battling her attraction to two very different men, Justine is plunging deeper into a world of wizadry, eroticism, and cosmic secrets. With Packard’s help, Justine has freed herself from her madness – only to discover a reality more frightening than anyone’s worst fears.

Bree Tanner can barely remember life before she had uncannily powerful senses, superhuman reflexes and unstoppable physical strength. Life before she had a relentless thirst for blood…life before she became a vampire.

All Bree knows is that living with her fellow newborns has few certainties and even fewer rules: watch your back, don’t draw attention to yourself and, above all, make it home by sunrise or die. What she doesn’t know: her time as an immortal is quickl running out.

Then Bree finds an unexpected friend in Diego, a newborn just as curious as Bree about their mysterious creator, whom they know only as her. As they come to realize that the newborns are pawns in a game larger than anything they could have imagine, Bree and Diego must choose sides and decide whom to trust. But when everything you know about vampires is based on a lie, how to do you find the truth?

A rare hybrid of vampire and werewolf, Riley Jenson and her twin brother, Rhoan, work for Melbourne’s Directorate of Other Races, an organisation created to police the supernatural races – and protect humans from their depredations. While Rhoan is an exalted guardian, a.k.a. assassin, Riley is merely an office worker – until her brother goes missing on one of his missions. The timing couldn’t be worse. More werewolf than vampire, Riley is vulnerable to the moon heat, the weeklong period before the full moon, when her need to mate becomes all-consuming…

Luckily Riley has two willing partners to satisfy her every need. But she will have to control her urges if she’s going to find her brother...

Morganville is a small college town filled with unusual characters. But when the sun goes down, the bad come out. Because in Morganville, there is an evil that lurks in the darkest shadows – one that will spill into the bright light of day.

For Clair Danvers, high school was hell, but college may be murder. It was bad enough that she got on the wrong side of Monica, the meanest of the school’s mean girls, but now she’s got three new roommates, who all have secrets of their own. And the biggest secret of all isn’t really a secret, except from Claire: Morganville is run by vampires, and they are hungry for fresh blood…

A water witch, Isabelle Novak has always led a chaotic, nomadic existence. But her life spins out of control when her sister – her only friend and emotional anchor – is killed by a demon. Driven by grief and a desire for revenge, she turns her back on the Coven and its sacred rede: Harm ye none…

When Isabelle first encounters Thomas Monahan, she’s running on pure rage and sorrow, channelling her pain into power – and trying to freeze the life out of the warlock she holds responsible for her sister’s death. Together she and Thomas form an uneasy alliance to hunt and destroy a demon of tremendous power. As head of the Coven, earth witch Thomas must thwart Isabelle’s dark impulses, but his very presence stirs deeper desires she never knew she had…

Car mechanic and sometime shapeshifter Mercy Thompson has learned – the hard way – why her race was almost exterminated. When European vampires emigrated to North America, they found Mercy’s people had a hidden talent for vampire slaying. Unfortunately for Mercy, the queen of the local vampire seethe has discovered her true identity.

The undead queen is also furious when she learns Mercy has crossed her and killed one of her own. Mercy may be protected from direct reprisals by the werewolf pack (and her interesting relationship with its Alpha), but that means Marsilia will come after Mercy some other way. So Mercy had better prepare to watch her back.

‘You don’t volunteer for slugfests with vampires. IT shortens you life expectancy.’

And you don’t fall in love with a werewolf. It interferes with your work. Especially when you’re a preternatural expert, like me. My business brings me up close and personal with all shapes and sizes of monsters. And not all of them want to kill me.

Take, for instance, the local pack of lycanthropes – they’re werewolves to you. A number of them are missing and they’ve come to me for help. Maybe because I’m dating the leader of the pack. I’ve survives a lot – from jealous vampires to killer zombies – but this love thing may kill me yet.

The country’s only celebrity werewolf, late-night radio host Kitty Norville. Prefers to be heard, not seen. But when she’s invited to testify at a Senate hearing on behalf of supernaturals, her face gets plastered on national TV. Kitty’s been in hot water before, but jumping into the D.C. underworld brings a new set of problems. And a new set of friends and enemies, including the vampire mistress of the city; an uber-hot Brazilian were-jaguar; and a paranoid, Bible-thumping senator who wants to expose Kitty as a monster. Kitty quickly learns in this city of dirty politicians and backstabbing pundits, everyone’s itching for a fight.

Giveaway @ Paperback Dolls (Drake Chronicles)

Hi folks,

Head over to Paperback Dolls for a great giveaway.

Alyxandra Harvey has given Paperback Dolls, Hearts at Stake and Blood Feud to giveaway to one lucky winner. Take a peruse at the interview too, it's quite interesting

:)

Blog Hop...(2)

Blog Hop is a meme that is hosted by Crazy For Books each Friday until Monday.

This is my second time doing the blog hop and I love it! It's a great way to meet other book bloggers!

Come on..do the hop! You know you want to :)

Review: Circus of the Damned by Laurell K. Hamilton

My Rating: E, P, R

Published: First published in1995
Publisher: Orbit

Author's Website: laurellkhamilton.org

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

I'm Anita Blake, expert on creatures of the night. I've dined with shapeshifters, danced with werewolves, and been wooed - but not won - by Jean-Claude, the Vampire Master of the City.

And now a darkly dangerous vampire names Alejandro has hti town. He wants me for his human servant. A war of the undead has begun. Over me...

DO NOT READ THIS REVIEW IF YOU HAVEN’T READ THE PREVIOUS BOOK AS IT MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS FOR YOU

Circus of the Damned is the third instalment in the Anita Blake Vampire Hunter series by Laurell K. Hamilton. This book focuses more on the vampires and shape shifters than the animator side of things. We are introduced to a new creature and personally I am thankful I wasn’t Anita. Coming face to face with this creature, I don’t think my skin would stop crawling.

Well I was much happier with this book than the last one in the series, The Laughing Corpse. Anita is in amongst all the action once again and she uncovers a few new things about a certain master vampire and her report friend, Irving Griswold.

There was so much going on in this book that I don’t want to say too much as I don’t want to spoil it for you out there that have not read the book/series yet. What I will say is that loved the twist in the story about the villains and Edward is back.

I think Edward is a rather interesting character. He is a dark and dangerous human being that shows no emotion when he is killing and isn’t close to anyone, except Anita. Now why is that? I think it’s because they are sort of in the same line of business, killing vampires and he has respect for her. They both have their own rules that they live by and they don’t break them for anything. This is real honour and a really good characteristic to have. You know you can always count on them to what they always do as they are sticking to their rules. Anita is sometimes confused as to where she stands with Edward as she doesn’t want to call him a friend as she knows he would kill her if he had to but at the same time what else do you call someone else that you trust with your life in violent situations? There’s no real attraction between the two so I don’t think anything romantic will happen in the series. To me they are friends, but I suppose we will just all have to wait and find out what exactly they are to one another later on in the series. I think they are friends and that’s it.

Now as for Jean Claude, what do I think of him? I think he is a very mysterious old man. He wants Anita, but I don’t think it’s because she is the Executioner although I think that adds to the allure of her. I think he sees someone he could spend the rest of eternity with but he is not above trying to coerce her into being his servant as we see in this book but at the same time he wants her to come to him willingly. But as we have seen previously Anita is totally against being his human servant and keeps threatening his life. They are both attracted to one another so I think something might happen in a later book but I can’t be sure as I am not entirely sure that Anita can get over the fact the he is indeed a dead man and a monster. But only time will tell I suppose.

And last but not least, Anita’s new love interest. Richard. From his description he is really hot and well built. He works for Jean Claude, who has warned him away from Anita, but this doesn’t stop him asking her out on a date. That’s all I will say on that matter otherwise I will spoil the story for you.

Overall, I was enjoyed this book thoroughly. The twists and turns in the plot were superb and I loved the new creature that we were introduced to in this book. I hope we keep meeting more mythical creatures in this series.

Disclaimer: I did not purchase this book, I borrowed it from my local library. I have not been paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

Review: Undead and Unwelcome by MaryJanice Davidson

My Rating: E, L, H

Published: 2009
Publisher: Thorndike Chivers

Author's Website: maryjanicedavidson.net

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

Fifty thousand angry werewolves. That's what Betsy is facing when she takes her werewolf friend Antonia's body to Cape Cod, where the Pack resides at Wyndham Manor. Because Antonia died in her service, Betsy is alive and well - and wrakced with guilt. She has no idea if the Wyndham werewolves will greet her with fangs or friendship. While Besty and her husband, Sinclair, try to make nice, their legal ward, BabyJon, freaks out every werefolf he meets. Meanwhile, back at the St. Paul mansion, Betsy's half sister is raising hell...

Undead and Unwelcome is the eight book in the Queen Betsy series by MaryJanice Davidson. Once again MJ doesn’t disappoint. There’s laughter, witty repertoire, near death experiences, some crafty underhandedness and not to mention some pure craziness.

This book is set about a week after Undead and Unworthy. Antonia the werewolf is dead and now Betsy, Sinclair, Jessica and BabyJon are taking a trip to Cape Cod to return her body to her pack. The pack seems to think that Betsy is responsible for her death so she must appear before their council to plead her case. Meanwhile, Marc, Tina and Laura at back at the St. Paul’s mansion and things start to take a turn for the worst. Things get rather crazy and Marc doesn’t know what to do.

I know I keep repeating myself but seriously, the Queen Betsy series has got to be the best funny series I have ever read. Every page I am laughing out loud to myself because of something Betsy has said or done. Her witty retorts get her into some dangerous entanglements but they also help her get out of them because the majority of the time she is right. And she has Sinclair to back her up when things go wrong.

I have a few favourite moments in this book, one of them was when Betsy and Lara are at the playground and Lara totally takes Betsy by surprise when she unveils the real reason she wanted time alone with Betsy. Also, my other favourite moment is when Tina becomes all feral again, that’s near the end of the book.

Overall, MJ has outdone herself and I can’t wait for Undead and Unfinished to come out so I can find out what other ridiculous situations Betsy gets herself in and out of. Betsy has got to be the most self-centred vampire I have come across when reading any paranormal novels but I love her for it. I would recommend this to anyone who likes reading about vampires and want some laughter.

Disclaimer: I do not own this book, I borrowed it from the library. I have not been paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

In My Mailbox...(4)

In My Mailbox is a meme that is hosted by The Story Siren every Sunday.

Fifty thousand angry werewolves. That's what Betsy is facing when she takes her werewolf friend Antonia's body to Cape Cod, where the Pack resides at Wyndham Manor. Because Antonia died in her service, Betsy is alive and well - and wrakced with guilt. She has no idea if the Wyndham werewolves will greet her with fangs or friendship. While Besty and her husband, Sinclair, try to make nice, their legal ward, BabyJon, freaks out every werefolf he meets. Meanwhile, back at the St. Paul mansion, Betsy's half sister is raising hell...

I'm Anita Blake, expert on creatures of the night. I've dined with shapeshifters, danced with werewolves, and been wooed - but not won - by Jean-Claude, the Vampire Master of the City.

And now a darkly dangerous vampire names Alejandro has hti town. He wants me for his human servant. A war of the undead has begun. Over me...

Review: Kitty and The Midnight Hour by Carrie Vaughn

My Rating: VG, P, B

Published: 2005
Publisher: Warner Books

Author's Website: carrievaughn.com

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

Kitty Norville is a midnight-shift DJ for a Denver radio station – and a werewolf in secret. Sick of lame requests, she accidentally starts ‘The Midnight Hour’, a late-night talk show for the supernaturally disadvantaged.

After desperate vampires, werewolves and witches across the country begin calling into share their woes, her new show is raging success. But it’s Kitty who can use some help. With one sexy werewolf hunter and a few homicidal undead on her trail, Kitty may have bitten off more than she can chew…

Kitty and The Midnight Hour is the first novel in the Kitty Norville series by Carrie Vaughn. This book covers Kitty’s journey from the pack cub to a more dominant, self reliant woman/wolf.

Before Kitty became a werewolf she was a DJ and this is a job she still does. On an off night the talk turns to the supernatural and this causes Kitty’s DJ career to sky rocket over night. The pack leader and master vampire of the area aren’t happy and want her to quit the show but Kitty is happy with what she does as it’s something she enjoys and it’s all her own, and she won’t quit for anyone. You will see the constant struggle she has with the alpha of the pack to gain some independence. But is it all worth it?

POSSIBLE SPOILER ALERT)

Anything I say in the following paragraph could be deemed a spoiler, but I don’t think so but I added this in just in case.

I thought this book was well written and quite creative. This is the first book I think I have read that the main character is a werewolf. Everything else I have read, the main characters are mostly vampires or humans. The pack dynamic is slightly different from other packs in other novels I have read. The pack in this story are very touchy feely as it gives them a ‘safe’ feeling. I think this is transferred from their human side and isn’t just a wolf trait. A lot of people feel safer when they are being touched by someone they love and trust. The pack is just like that except they feel like they have to touch another to feel safe and have to touch each other all the time. The alpha has a mate, but can still sleep with all the females of the pack. I think this is wrong on so many levels but essential to this story.
(END OF SPOILER

Kitty isn’t the strong heroine we all expect her to be at the beginning. She grows out of her submissiveness and becomes the heroine we are all waiting to read about. It’s a slow journey but eventually she manages to gain her independence but at a huge cost. We see her constant struggle between her and her wolf all throughout the book. Kitty doesn’t want to like what her wolf likes. But who wins in the end? I’m not telling, you will just have to read the book for yourself.

I think my favourite part of the book was the first time we meet Cormac. This part in the book was very anti-climatic and had me sitting on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen. There was also a moment near the end of the book when Kitty meets with Arturo the Master vampire of the family in Denver. The description of Rick’s face had me literally laughing out loud.

Overall, I think this book was pretty good. It had a good plot line, a strong female character alongside many very strong male characters and was action packed. There was always a macho display going on and this isn’t just within the wolf pack. This book would be suitable for teenagers upwards. There’s nothing sexually explicit in this book but there are a few descriptive violence scenes but I’m sure it’s something a teenager can handle.

Disclaimer: I have not bought this book, I borrowed it from the library. I have not been paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.

Blog Hop...(1)

Blog Hop is a meme that is hosted by Crazy For Books each Friday until Monday.

I like to read books in the supernatural/paranormal romance genre although I do like reading others books like thrillers and obscure genres (e.g. Memoirs of a Geisha - I don't know what genre to put this in) but my interest has mainly been in the former for the past two years.

This is a great opportunity for book bloggers to meet other book bloggers..come on, join the fun :)

Humorous Paranormal Challenge

There's a challenge being held over at Bitten By Paranormal Romance and ir's going to run from July to December.

The main aim of the challenge is to read twenty funny paranormal books within this time frame. Bitten By Paranormal Romance has a list of authors' and their series titles to get you started. But you might have some of your own.

If you want to find out more or take part in the challenge, either click on the button on the right hand side or you can visit by clicking here.

AngelGoneMad :)

Review: Iron Kissed by Patricia Briggs

My Rating: E, P X

Published: 2008
Publisher: Orbit

Author's Website: patriciabriggs.com

Purchase @ Amazon.co.uk Amazon.com

It wasn’t hard to follow the scent of blood to the living room where the fae had been killed. It had been a violent death, perfect for creating ghosts.

Mercy Thompson enjoys being a mechanic, but life is never simple given her increasing closeness to the local werewolf pack, and her ability to change into coyote form at will. And when a member of the fae community calls in a favour, needing her skills for a covert murder investigation, she jumps into the hunt.

But the dangers multiply and she clashes with shadowed creatures of great power. When her old boss Zee is charged with a brutal assassination, Mercy finds herself fighting alone. There are those who love her, who would keep her safe, but she is way and holds her freedom precious. Until, that is, she has nothing left to lose but her life…

Iron Kissed is the third novel in the Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs. Mercy is one tough nut and it takes a lot to get her down but we see a different side to her in this story. This book is full of action and torment for Mercy, as she tries her hand at detective work and her heart is aching with a question she doesn’t know the answer to.

Mercy has a tough time in this book as she faces creatures she has never come across in her walker life. She comes face to face with some fierce fae and they don’t take to her very well. All those fairytales won’t help you out much against these fae.

This series is one of my favourites. It’s more focused on the plot than romance but we see the romance card is being used quite a few times in this book. To me there are three love rivals but we don’t see the third at all in this book, makes me wonder where he has gone and if he will be back. The other two, Adam and Samuel, are at the fore front of Mercy’s thoughts. She doesn’t know who to choose though and continues to debates this throughout the book.

I think my favourite part of this book was at the very end after everything was over and done with (I don’t want to give out details in case you haven’t read the book/series yet) and Mercy was with a certain someone. It ends on a suggestive note that leaves you wondering what happens next.

I really didn’t like reading the last few chapters. Something happens to Mercy and I found it hard to read because trying to imagine what Mercy had gone through was too horrific to even think about. I know it’s most likely essential to the plot line but I can’t see how yet, that will probably all pan out in the rest of the series. Or was it to show that Mercy can be weakened and that she isn’t the super duper heroine we all think she is?

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I have liked the series as a whole so far. I would recommend this book/series for anyone that is a young adult upwards. I wonder what Mercy is going to get up to next in Bone Crossed will have to wait and see.

Disclaimer: I do not own this book, I borrowed it from the library. I am not paid to review this book and everything I have said is of my own honest opinion.