Total Surrender
by Rebecca Zanetti
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, this does not affect my opinion of this book or the content of my review.
This is the series finale to the Sin Brother's series. The third in the series was one of the first ARC's I ever received and I was so excited I jumped right in and gobbled up and quasi-reviewed the previously listed titles as well. I was new, and the series was tricky, so I didn't have much to say, or maybe just didn't know how to say it. But considering my love for the rest of the series, I was so glad when Grand Central Publishing contacted me to review Total Surrender.
As a whole, this series somewhat reminds me of Christine Feehan's Ghost Walker series, just not as crazy and with a tighter deadline. And while they won't make my all-time favorites re-read shelves, they are an enjoyable set of books that I think fans of PNR and military romance will enjoy.
Now, about Total Surrender in particular. I swung wildly from loving it to getting extremely frustrated. Some of the plot was not smoothly done at all. I know why it was done that way, there were scenes in there to make Jory and Piper more like real people rather than stock characters, it was to get the reader to care about them and their happily ever after. It just wasn't always well done, in my opinion, and sometimes those scenes took me out of the story. Dinners with parents that didn't move the story, sex at inappropriate times and places that didn't always have a motive. Things like that frustrate me when it takes me out of the story.
Overall though, I bought them as a couple. They were fun, they rubbed each other the wrong way, and sparks flew. And the story itself was action packed and fast paced with enough plot twists to satisfy me. Who shot Jory? I bet it'll blindside you just like it did me. There were feels galore here, plenty of tearjerker fodder that didn't hit angsty, a nice gooey romantic ending, and plenty of feels for that whole family. The author also left it open for a spin-off, but left the Dean family in a nice, solid, happy place. It didn't feel cliff hanger-like.
Overall, I am pretty pleased with this story and enjoyed the conclusion for this series. 3.5 stars
Showing posts with label 3.5 star review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 3.5 star review. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Review - The Dangers of Dating a Rebound Vampire
The Dangers of Dating a Rebound Vampire
by Molly Harper
As an aside, I think this cover is atrocious.
This is Molly Harper's 3rd book in her Half Moon Hollow series (the spin off from her Jane Jameson series), and there's a nice Christmas novella to reconnect us to this tale's heroine since the previous full length-novel didn't feature her at all. Upfront, I really adore Molly Harper because of the way she handles female relationships with characters other than the hero, and their general quirky, feisty, no holds barred personalities.
The sensible beige pantsuit was mocking me.
It was hanging there, in my closet, all tailored and boring. And beige. Yes, wear me to work, and let all of your new coworkers know that you have no personality! It jeered at me. Look at you, all nervous and twitchy. Why don’t you just stay home and work for the Apple store, you big baby?
"That is one judgmental pantsuit.”
I do so love Molly Harper's heroines. They are the snarky voice inside of my head just dying to get out. They are the girlfriends I have, and the girlfriends I wish to have. Granted, I don't live in an alternate reality where at the turn of the century an accountant who has become undead sues for equal rights under the ADA (really, if you haven't already read these series, what are you waiting for?) resulting in the mass outing of the undead population. But based on these ladies, I kind of wish I did. All that being said, I was rather disappointed by Gigi. The too stupid to live meter pinged almost off the scale for almost the first two thirds of the book. It basically comes right in the end, and I suppose I might have been asking for too much from a 20 year old, but still. Don't be surprised by the New Adult flavor.
Gigi Scanlon is all grown-up, kind of. She's finishing up with college and all set to embark on a career that her sister is sure to despise, by taking an internship with the Council for the Equal Treatment of the Undead. She's also got vampire problems of the non-employment related variety. A seriously hot vampire is out to kiss her, or kill her. Don't worry too much about him; he's really just place holder fantasy vampire man with little else going on. Really it's a jumbled mess when it comes to that relationship. Witches, and vampires, and computer programmers oh my. But, Gigi's sneaky, and snarky, and pretty effing funny. There's plenty of undead shenanigans, a nice twist of a mystery, and a pretty satisfying conclusion to a "nice-guying" situation.
This wasn't the best or most satisfying book in either of the two series, but it was an enjoyable enough way to pass a few hours. And it opened up the future for some really entertaining undead shenanigans. I've got just a few words for you: See Dick and Jane legislate!
3.5 stars
by Molly Harper
As an aside, I think this cover is atrocious.
This is Molly Harper's 3rd book in her Half Moon Hollow series (the spin off from her Jane Jameson series), and there's a nice Christmas novella to reconnect us to this tale's heroine since the previous full length-novel didn't feature her at all. Upfront, I really adore Molly Harper because of the way she handles female relationships with characters other than the hero, and their general quirky, feisty, no holds barred personalities.
The sensible beige pantsuit was mocking me.
It was hanging there, in my closet, all tailored and boring. And beige. Yes, wear me to work, and let all of your new coworkers know that you have no personality! It jeered at me. Look at you, all nervous and twitchy. Why don’t you just stay home and work for the Apple store, you big baby?
"That is one judgmental pantsuit.”
I do so love Molly Harper's heroines. They are the snarky voice inside of my head just dying to get out. They are the girlfriends I have, and the girlfriends I wish to have. Granted, I don't live in an alternate reality where at the turn of the century an accountant who has become undead sues for equal rights under the ADA (really, if you haven't already read these series, what are you waiting for?) resulting in the mass outing of the undead population. But based on these ladies, I kind of wish I did. All that being said, I was rather disappointed by Gigi. The too stupid to live meter pinged almost off the scale for almost the first two thirds of the book. It basically comes right in the end, and I suppose I might have been asking for too much from a 20 year old, but still. Don't be surprised by the New Adult flavor.
Gigi Scanlon is all grown-up, kind of. She's finishing up with college and all set to embark on a career that her sister is sure to despise, by taking an internship with the Council for the Equal Treatment of the Undead. She's also got vampire problems of the non-employment related variety. A seriously hot vampire is out to kiss her, or kill her. Don't worry too much about him; he's really just place holder fantasy vampire man with little else going on. Really it's a jumbled mess when it comes to that relationship. Witches, and vampires, and computer programmers oh my. But, Gigi's sneaky, and snarky, and pretty effing funny. There's plenty of undead shenanigans, a nice twist of a mystery, and a pretty satisfying conclusion to a "nice-guying" situation.
This wasn't the best or most satisfying book in either of the two series, but it was an enjoyable enough way to pass a few hours. And it opened up the future for some really entertaining undead shenanigans. I've got just a few words for you: See Dick and Jane legislate!
3.5 stars
Saturday, March 14, 2015
Review - Rocky Retreat
By Vivian Arend
This is book 7.5 in the Six Pack Ranch series. I've reviewed 1-6 previously, and really enjoyed them. They don't make my top re-readable list, but nice family stories with some smexy times and romance are exactly what I need on occasion. Book 7 was kind of meh for me, but didn't stop me from wanting to continue the series.
We'd met Rachel and Lee previously, and as much as he wanted her, it wasn't enough for her to choose him over their age gap. She picked the wrong man. And now that Rachel's seperated and thy're both trapped in a snowbound cabin, Lee's absolutely ready to show her he's the right man for her.
The snowbound enforced intimacy trope works for me as a device to speed up the connection between the two main characters in a novella, particularly when those two characters have past history and knowledge of each other. It neatly side steps many of my issues with romance novellas. Though they don't stay stuck, it was a nice bridge between their past relationship and their new more intimate one.
And I adore condom positive scenes:
“Condoms, yes. I know you’re clean, but…” He shook his head. “This is your choice, your body, and you never have to explain.”
Plus we got the reprise of Jesse the Jerk. I'm not sure how Arend is going to salvage that spoiled brat, but it should be interesting.
Lee and Rachel's romance was sweet and I enjoyed catching up with the Coleman's. There were just two things I didn't care for, them hooking up before her divorce was finalized, and using a big dramatic thing to finally get them talking. What I like about this series is that it's about families and real seeming people, no matter how ridiculous some things in life get (life gets ridiculous for real people too), so the drama seemed like cutting corners. But I still really liked their story and look forward to getting the rest of the horde of Coleman's settled down.
3.5 stars
Saturday, February 28, 2015
ARC Review - Need Me
Need Me
by Cynthia Eden
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is the third book in Eden's Dark Obsession series, and I have previously read and reviewed Watch Me and Want Me. We got to see Julianna and Devlin's first interactions at the end of Want Me, and it was fairly explosive. I was super excited to get the next book, and Cynthia Eden didn't let me down. The one thing that truly had me concerned while reading it was that we would not be getting Ethan's book. I get to the end and even through the excerpt for her next new series, a little disappointed and feeling let down. So let me reassure you, so you don't have to feel that way as I did. Ethan (the antagonist/anti-hero from the previous books) IS getting his own book, Beware of Me, and it should be releasing Spring/Summer 2015.
So let's get down to the nitty gritty. Julianna is accused of murdering her husband, and all the evidence seems to point right toward her, but she maintains her innocence. She hires Devlin and V.S.J. to protect her and find out the truth of who is really after her. Devlin is yet another action character (and yes, I still think of all these men as Bruce Willis, which is I am sure NOT the author's intent, your mileage may vary, but these are action heroes more so than romance heroes). He just enough tragic back story and emotion to tip him out of alpha-hole caricature status, but really, it's all about the action, mystery, and smexy times. This story was particularly twisty, and while the twists weren't over the top ridiculous, they did really keep me engaged in the story.
by Cynthia Eden
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is the third book in Eden's Dark Obsession series, and I have previously read and reviewed Watch Me and Want Me. We got to see Julianna and Devlin's first interactions at the end of Want Me, and it was fairly explosive. I was super excited to get the next book, and Cynthia Eden didn't let me down. The one thing that truly had me concerned while reading it was that we would not be getting Ethan's book. I get to the end and even through the excerpt for her next new series, a little disappointed and feeling let down. So let me reassure you, so you don't have to feel that way as I did. Ethan (the antagonist/anti-hero from the previous books) IS getting his own book, Beware of Me, and it should be releasing Spring/Summer 2015.
So let's get down to the nitty gritty. Julianna is accused of murdering her husband, and all the evidence seems to point right toward her, but she maintains her innocence. She hires Devlin and V.S.J. to protect her and find out the truth of who is really after her. Devlin is yet another action character (and yes, I still think of all these men as Bruce Willis, which is I am sure NOT the author's intent, your mileage may vary, but these are action heroes more so than romance heroes). He just enough tragic back story and emotion to tip him out of alpha-hole caricature status, but really, it's all about the action, mystery, and smexy times. This story was particularly twisty, and while the twists weren't over the top ridiculous, they did really keep me engaged in the story.
3.5 stars from me. It requires a lot of willful suspension of disbelief as they are instantly attracted, the relationship spans a very short time, and by the end they are in love and completely devoted. This is par for the course for Eden's shorter romantic suspense, but they are just too fun and exciting to give up. I adore her books. This is my drug of choice and I can't wait for my next hit!
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
ARC - Enchanter's Echo
Enchanter's Echo
by Anise Rae
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I picked this up because I've been in more of a fantasy/sci-fi sort of mood, rather than a paranormal one. The concept was interesting, so I picked up the first book in the series to review as well. And I really, really liked Syphon's Song. So this may be the very first time in my long life as a reader that going back and reading the first book(s) in a series made things harder rather than better. I read Enchanter's Echo immediately after Syphon's Song, and I was just disappointed. It took me a bit to figure out why. And that was because while I became interested in this book based on it's own blurb, when I went and read the first book, there was a character whose story I wanted more. I really wanted Selene's story, and this wasn't it, heck they didn't even mention her. But that is not the fault of Enchanter's Echo. So I went back and re-read it for itself, and with that in mind, and I liked it much better.
by Anise Rae
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I picked this up because I've been in more of a fantasy/sci-fi sort of mood, rather than a paranormal one. The concept was interesting, so I picked up the first book in the series to review as well. And I really, really liked Syphon's Song. So this may be the very first time in my long life as a reader that going back and reading the first book(s) in a series made things harder rather than better. I read Enchanter's Echo immediately after Syphon's Song, and I was just disappointed. It took me a bit to figure out why. And that was because while I became interested in this book based on it's own blurb, when I went and read the first book, there was a character whose story I wanted more. I really wanted Selene's story, and this wasn't it, heck they didn't even mention her. But that is not the fault of Enchanter's Echo. So I went back and re-read it for itself, and with that in mind, and I liked it much better.
I enjoy the world building and the premise, and I liked how each main character's secrets unfolded. They just have such natural balance and symmetry, and the heroine is not remotely weak or dependent. The villain wasn't obvious, and they weren't just a cardboard cutout of a person either. They weren't entirely 3 dimensional, but they weren't bad either. My one complaint about this book is I consider the ending a bit of a dues ex machina, and it was hard to get past that. I think the author may have written herself into a corner there, but it wasn't awful. Overall, I am giving this 3.5 stars, and I am more than interested in reading the next book, even though I expect it STILL won't be Selene's book.
Thursday, February 5, 2015
ARC Review - Bridged
Bridged
by Kendra Elliot
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Bridged is the sequel to Vanished, in the Bone Secrets world. I've not read the Bone Secrets series, but I did read Vanished, and I wrote the following: "Solid suspense with interesting, rational adults for a heroine and hero."
Bridged was really kind of slow to start out, and events do seem kind of random at the beginning. There's a couple of sub plots, one of which includes Ava's crazy twin sister. I found the mystery part really entertaining, because this serial killer was a bit strange and deviated from the norm. And, Ava and Mason's romance was a warm comforting burn rather than a conflagration, which balanced the plot as nicely as the two balance each other. By the end of it, sub plots were resolved and made sense, the killer's motivations were illuminated rendering the killer human and somewhat pitiable, and there was enough action and suspense to do the job for what was slower in the rest of the book.
In the end I am giving this 3.5 stars, and making a mental note that Kendra Elliot's monsters aren't so very monstrous - they are human and understandable, which for me at least makes them just a bit more horrifying.
by Kendra Elliot
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Bridged is the sequel to Vanished, in the Bone Secrets world. I've not read the Bone Secrets series, but I did read Vanished, and I wrote the following: "Solid suspense with interesting, rational adults for a heroine and hero."
Bridged was really kind of slow to start out, and events do seem kind of random at the beginning. There's a couple of sub plots, one of which includes Ava's crazy twin sister. I found the mystery part really entertaining, because this serial killer was a bit strange and deviated from the norm. And, Ava and Mason's romance was a warm comforting burn rather than a conflagration, which balanced the plot as nicely as the two balance each other. By the end of it, sub plots were resolved and made sense, the killer's motivations were illuminated rendering the killer human and somewhat pitiable, and there was enough action and suspense to do the job for what was slower in the rest of the book.
In the end I am giving this 3.5 stars, and making a mental note that Kendra Elliot's monsters aren't so very monstrous - they are human and understandable, which for me at least makes them just a bit more horrifying.
Friday, January 30, 2015
ARC Review - Want Me
Want Me
by Cynthia Eden
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Just let me do my little happy dance, because Cynthia Eden is my romantic suspense crack. This is her second book in her Dark Obsession series, and I really enjoyed the first book, Watch Me. I read and reviewed Watch Me previously.
by Cynthia Eden
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Just let me do my little happy dance, because Cynthia Eden is my romantic suspense crack. This is her second book in her Dark Obsession series, and I really enjoyed the first book, Watch Me. I read and reviewed Watch Me previously.
Sophie, is a tough nut, she is sort of icy and aggressive on the surface but with a soft gooey center that she holds close in her job as a defense attorney. She almost died due to her connections to the supposed villain of the previous story, Ethan. However, life gets even stranger when she discovers she has an obsessed stalker, and current events change the way she views her history. Lex is the alpha bad boy, while he has one briefly mentioned piece of history, he is really just a placeholder male to me, and in my mind all these guys are John McClain and we are in a Die Hard movie.
Willful suspension of disbelief is an absolute requirement, but there's tons of action, suspense, sizzle, and plot twists that makes this the book equivalent of an action movie.
3.5 stars-it won't be going on my re-read list, but it was fun while it lasted and I really want the next book in the series and am hoping there will be a fourth book to cover Ethan's story (I adore morally ambivalent heroes).
Monday, January 26, 2015
Review - Hot Damned Series
I picked up Robyn Peterman's Fashionably Dead for free on Amazon. It's still free, so if you like paranormal romance, definitely pick it up to see if the rest of the series interests you. I should probably write my reviews of books individually, but when I binge like this, it is sort of hard for me to separate out my feelings and thoughts on individual books. So I am going to throw these reviews all up at the same time. I can't guarantee there won't be spoilers for previous books in subsequent reviews, so be sure to stop reading at appropriate points if you don't want to be spoiled.
Fashionably Dead
Astrid is having a miserable week, month, life, etc. Her grandmother who raised her has recently died, her mother who is horrible continues to be horrible, and her best friend is pushing her to quit smoking resulting in an ill-conceived decision to try hypnotism. The hypnotism works just a little too well, because you can't exactly smoke if you can't breathe, and Vampyres definitely don't need to breath. So now Astrid is thrown into an entire paranormal world she had no clue exists, one with Vampyres, guardian angels, fairies, and a too hot bad guy that makes her now still heart race. And oh yeah, and she's the prophesied one. But at least she can still be a Prada whore, undead doesn't mean unfashionable after all.
I see a lot of people who are comparing this to Chicagoland Vampires, but since I haven't read those (and I am not sure I want to) I can't speak to that comparison. What I can absolutely say it is like, is Maryjanice Davidson's Undead series.
-snarky, mostly pretends to be vapid heroine? Check
-fashion obsessed? Check
-horrible parent? Check
-prophesied heroine who doesn't want the power? Check
-bad boy hero? Check
-plethora of family or friends who are more than they appear? Double Check
Don't get me wrong, this book is a ton of fun, and after some of the shenanigans of the past few Undead/Betsy books it was fascinating and almost too funny and fun to get back into the ground floor on so much delightful craziness. It's nothing new, but Peterman did it with such joy that you can't help but enjoy the people and the ride. This book ends with all kinds of twists and a hell of a cliffhanger, but since the next book is already out, that really isn't a huge problem to me.
4 stars and I couldn't wait to get into the next book.
Fashionably Dead Down Under
Stop here if you don't want to be spoiled on the previous book. Really, just stop.
So, poor Astrid, who thought things could finally settle down with her hotter than Hades fiancée, the prophesied baby on the way, horrible family members dead, and all the loving family she never had, winds up in Hell. Turns out that very little of what they thought they knew in previous events was actually true (don't worry, Peterman didn't ret-con, it absolutely makes sense to the story). Her father, evil as he was, wasn't actually a ruler, her mother wasn't at all who she thought she was, and she has plenty more family with all sorts of supernatural connections. Frankly, she's a one woman melting pot of paranormal goodness. But as much as the family wants to meet her, really they have a job for her to do, and all Hell is about to break loose.
Paranormal zaniness doesn't just abound, it bitch-slaps you right through the story. I didn't get the same punch form this story as I did the first, it was just a little too spread out. But I enjoyed seeing Astrid fully realize her powers and enjoyed how Astrid and Ethan's relationship developed. Some of the other characters were also really fun and I'd love to get their stories in the future.
3.5 stars and totally on board with the next book.
Hell on Heels
Again, let me warn you that you will be spoiled on previous books if you continue reading.
Dixie is a demon, and she's Astrid's cousin to be precise. Despite the fact that we learned that demons aren't the sum of all evil in the previous books, they aren't exactly good or nice either. Except for Dixie, she's a sweetie. She falls in love, does her stint on earth, saves the world and her family and discovers her destiny. This one had a bit of a different flavor to me, and it was more new adult romance with granted a ton of paranormal craziness, but still it was a new adult. I didn't hate it, but it wasn't my favorite entry into the series, which is sad because Dixie was one of my favorite characters in the last book.
3 stars and a relatively strong closer to the series, particularly if new adult romance is your thing.
Overall this is a fun weekend read that you can absolutely gorge on.
Fashionably Dead
Astrid is having a miserable week, month, life, etc. Her grandmother who raised her has recently died, her mother who is horrible continues to be horrible, and her best friend is pushing her to quit smoking resulting in an ill-conceived decision to try hypnotism. The hypnotism works just a little too well, because you can't exactly smoke if you can't breathe, and Vampyres definitely don't need to breath. So now Astrid is thrown into an entire paranormal world she had no clue exists, one with Vampyres, guardian angels, fairies, and a too hot bad guy that makes her now still heart race. And oh yeah, and she's the prophesied one. But at least she can still be a Prada whore, undead doesn't mean unfashionable after all.
I see a lot of people who are comparing this to Chicagoland Vampires, but since I haven't read those (and I am not sure I want to) I can't speak to that comparison. What I can absolutely say it is like, is Maryjanice Davidson's Undead series.
-snarky, mostly pretends to be vapid heroine? Check
-fashion obsessed? Check
-horrible parent? Check
-prophesied heroine who doesn't want the power? Check
-bad boy hero? Check
-plethora of family or friends who are more than they appear? Double Check
Don't get me wrong, this book is a ton of fun, and after some of the shenanigans of the past few Undead/Betsy books it was fascinating and almost too funny and fun to get back into the ground floor on so much delightful craziness. It's nothing new, but Peterman did it with such joy that you can't help but enjoy the people and the ride. This book ends with all kinds of twists and a hell of a cliffhanger, but since the next book is already out, that really isn't a huge problem to me.
4 stars and I couldn't wait to get into the next book.
Fashionably Dead Down Under
Stop here if you don't want to be spoiled on the previous book. Really, just stop.
So, poor Astrid, who thought things could finally settle down with her hotter than Hades fiancée, the prophesied baby on the way, horrible family members dead, and all the loving family she never had, winds up in Hell. Turns out that very little of what they thought they knew in previous events was actually true (don't worry, Peterman didn't ret-con, it absolutely makes sense to the story). Her father, evil as he was, wasn't actually a ruler, her mother wasn't at all who she thought she was, and she has plenty more family with all sorts of supernatural connections. Frankly, she's a one woman melting pot of paranormal goodness. But as much as the family wants to meet her, really they have a job for her to do, and all Hell is about to break loose.
Paranormal zaniness doesn't just abound, it bitch-slaps you right through the story. I didn't get the same punch form this story as I did the first, it was just a little too spread out. But I enjoyed seeing Astrid fully realize her powers and enjoyed how Astrid and Ethan's relationship developed. Some of the other characters were also really fun and I'd love to get their stories in the future.
3.5 stars and totally on board with the next book.
Hell on Heels
Again, let me warn you that you will be spoiled on previous books if you continue reading.
Dixie is a demon, and she's Astrid's cousin to be precise. Despite the fact that we learned that demons aren't the sum of all evil in the previous books, they aren't exactly good or nice either. Except for Dixie, she's a sweetie. She falls in love, does her stint on earth, saves the world and her family and discovers her destiny. This one had a bit of a different flavor to me, and it was more new adult romance with granted a ton of paranormal craziness, but still it was a new adult. I didn't hate it, but it wasn't my favorite entry into the series, which is sad because Dixie was one of my favorite characters in the last book.
3 stars and a relatively strong closer to the series, particularly if new adult romance is your thing.
Overall this is a fun weekend read that you can absolutely gorge on.
Friday, December 12, 2014
ARC Review - Watch Me
Watch Me
by Cynthia Eden
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
OK, so you need to know up front, I adore Cynthia Eden. Her books tend to be like crack for me. And this book even more so. By that I mean, it is addictive, with a quick short high, that doesn't last long, and leaves you scrambling for the next one, often with very little memory of that previous high.
This is romantic suspense lite, there isn't a lot of depth to the plot or the characters, and the mystery while tricky wasn't really explored much,it was just BAM and there it was. Don't get me wrong, I really did enjoy this book, I am looking forward to the rest of the series, and it was just a ton of fun while it lasted (so altogether a whole lot better than crack), it just isn't likely to go on my re-read list.
Chance Valentine is the secretive, dangerous, and sexy body guard. Gwen Hawthorne is the feisty but loving heroine. They have years of back story, but we really don't get to see any of that, and of course they love each other (and always have).
3.5 stars
by Cynthia Eden
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
OK, so you need to know up front, I adore Cynthia Eden. Her books tend to be like crack for me. And this book even more so. By that I mean, it is addictive, with a quick short high, that doesn't last long, and leaves you scrambling for the next one, often with very little memory of that previous high.
This is romantic suspense lite, there isn't a lot of depth to the plot or the characters, and the mystery while tricky wasn't really explored much,it was just BAM and there it was. Don't get me wrong, I really did enjoy this book, I am looking forward to the rest of the series, and it was just a ton of fun while it lasted (so altogether a whole lot better than crack), it just isn't likely to go on my re-read list.
Chance Valentine is the secretive, dangerous, and sexy body guard. Gwen Hawthorne is the feisty but loving heroine. They have years of back story, but we really don't get to see any of that, and of course they love each other (and always have).
3.5 stars
Friday, November 14, 2014
ARC - I'm Dreaming of an Undead Christmas
I'm Dreaming of an Undead Christmas
by Molly Harper
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is a novella set in the Half Moon Hollow series, which is a spin-off from the Jane Jameson series and in the same world as the Naked Werewolf series. While you don't need to read the naked Werewolf story (or vice versa) to enjoy these, the Jane Jameson ones are somewhat required as far as I am concerned.
This particular novella is actually kind of interesting. It was initially released as an audiobook LAST Christmas, and is now being released in ebook form. If you do the Audible audiobook thing, it is actually free at the moment. Considering Charlaine Harris recently did something similar, with the audio releasing before the print, I kind of wonder if this is some sort of new experiment. I know some people love the audio, but since I just can't stand it, i hope this doesn't become too common, or I'll end up very frustrated.
Molly Harper's strengths have always been her humor, and the relationships her characters have with everyone, not just with their hero/heroine. There's no romance in this story, but considering Harper's strengths, that really isn't a problem. It is a happy holiday story that lets us get caught up with beloved characters (without eating into another main character's story) and gives is helpful time spanning information without dragging down the main romantic story. It's Gigi's first Christmas since her sister Iris became a vampire, she's getting ready to graduate college, and she's looking for a future job. All very entertaining for a hold over novella, not something I would want in addition to the main book, but definitely something to whet the appetite for The Dangers of Dating a Rebound Vampire. 3.5 stars
by Molly Harper
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is a novella set in the Half Moon Hollow series, which is a spin-off from the Jane Jameson series and in the same world as the Naked Werewolf series. While you don't need to read the naked Werewolf story (or vice versa) to enjoy these, the Jane Jameson ones are somewhat required as far as I am concerned.
This particular novella is actually kind of interesting. It was initially released as an audiobook LAST Christmas, and is now being released in ebook form. If you do the Audible audiobook thing, it is actually free at the moment. Considering Charlaine Harris recently did something similar, with the audio releasing before the print, I kind of wonder if this is some sort of new experiment. I know some people love the audio, but since I just can't stand it, i hope this doesn't become too common, or I'll end up very frustrated.
Molly Harper's strengths have always been her humor, and the relationships her characters have with everyone, not just with their hero/heroine. There's no romance in this story, but considering Harper's strengths, that really isn't a problem. It is a happy holiday story that lets us get caught up with beloved characters (without eating into another main character's story) and gives is helpful time spanning information without dragging down the main romantic story. It's Gigi's first Christmas since her sister Iris became a vampire, she's getting ready to graduate college, and she's looking for a future job. All very entertaining for a hold over novella, not something I would want in addition to the main book, but definitely something to whet the appetite for The Dangers of Dating a Rebound Vampire. 3.5 stars
Thursday, November 6, 2014
ARC Review - Wild Nights
Wild Nights
by Tina Wainscott
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 3 in the Justiss Alliance, and you can see my previous reviews here.
Wild Nights picks up after Wild Ways with everyone (except Roth) settling into the Justiss Alliance, and the new relationships for the previous heroes/heroines.
Saxonby "Sooch" Cole's new assignment is infiltrating a nude resort, as a mild mannered geek, in order to uncover a date rape scheme. It's the perfect job for the confirmed bachelor of the group. Jennessy Shaw scheduled this trip to spark things up with her long-term boyfriend, but when she catches him cheating on her, she decides to explore her wild side on her own. They are both instantly attracted, but between the miscommunications as well as Sax's feeling about fidelity, (he has some really crappy men in his family), they needless to say get off to a rocky start. But, when Jennessy (who has depths not seen at first glance) winds up in Sax's arms as a victim, all bets are off.
The Justiss Alliance is like the A-Team, only with sex and romance, and in this case a nude resort. It's is a little campy, a little ridiculous and over the top, but plenty of fun. This latest installment, the writing seems to be somewhat smoother and overall the pacing issues I saw in the first books seem to be resolved.
It looks like we are set up for Knox's book next, but I honestly find myself most curious about Roth.
Altogether, I enjoyed this book as I have enjoyed this series so far; however, there is one event with another woman on the resort. It seems like the author used this as a note that this isn't some unrealistic, not like real life plot line, but honestly, it came off as gratuitous and unnecessary. 3.5 stars and thus far, completely willing to go the distance with this series. There's nothing groundbreaking about it, but it is reasonably good entertainment.
by Tina Wainscott
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 3 in the Justiss Alliance, and you can see my previous reviews here.
Wild Nights picks up after Wild Ways with everyone (except Roth) settling into the Justiss Alliance, and the new relationships for the previous heroes/heroines.
Saxonby "Sooch" Cole's new assignment is infiltrating a nude resort, as a mild mannered geek, in order to uncover a date rape scheme. It's the perfect job for the confirmed bachelor of the group. Jennessy Shaw scheduled this trip to spark things up with her long-term boyfriend, but when she catches him cheating on her, she decides to explore her wild side on her own. They are both instantly attracted, but between the miscommunications as well as Sax's feeling about fidelity, (he has some really crappy men in his family), they needless to say get off to a rocky start. But, when Jennessy (who has depths not seen at first glance) winds up in Sax's arms as a victim, all bets are off.
The Justiss Alliance is like the A-Team, only with sex and romance, and in this case a nude resort. It's is a little campy, a little ridiculous and over the top, but plenty of fun. This latest installment, the writing seems to be somewhat smoother and overall the pacing issues I saw in the first books seem to be resolved.
It looks like we are set up for Knox's book next, but I honestly find myself most curious about Roth.
Altogether, I enjoyed this book as I have enjoyed this series so far; however, there is one event with another woman on the resort. It seems like the author used this as a note that this isn't some unrealistic, not like real life plot line, but honestly, it came off as gratuitous and unnecessary. 3.5 stars and thus far, completely willing to go the distance with this series. There's nothing groundbreaking about it, but it is reasonably good entertainment.
Monday, October 27, 2014
ARC Review - Beyond Addiction
Beyond Addiction
by Kit RochaI received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 5 in the Beyond Series, a post-apocalyptic erotice/romance series. You can read my previous reviews here.
Trix was left hanging with one hell of a cliffhanger at the end of the last book. That is rather expeditiously resolved at the beginning of this story, when she lands right back into Sector 5 and the hands of her former lover, Finn. Finn is a man on the edge, a man who only wants a front row seat with no exit plan to the ruination of Sector 5. But, when Trix shows up everything changes. While he doesn't start out wanting to change his path, he does have a new goal.
Despite the action, this book seems both more relaxed and introspective. Overall, I'd say this book was less about Trix and Finn (though don't get me wrong, there was plenty of sizzle), and more about expanding the world building. And that is the thing about these stories; they are creating such a novel, raunchy, post apocalyptic-dystopian world, that these books just aren't stand alones. While this is absolutely not my favorite story or couple, I still enjoy the world that is being built and can't wait for the next one.
But one more thing, I'd love to find out more about Ryder.
by Kit RochaI received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 5 in the Beyond Series, a post-apocalyptic erotice/romance series. You can read my previous reviews here.
Trix was left hanging with one hell of a cliffhanger at the end of the last book. That is rather expeditiously resolved at the beginning of this story, when she lands right back into Sector 5 and the hands of her former lover, Finn. Finn is a man on the edge, a man who only wants a front row seat with no exit plan to the ruination of Sector 5. But, when Trix shows up everything changes. While he doesn't start out wanting to change his path, he does have a new goal.
Despite the action, this book seems both more relaxed and introspective. Overall, I'd say this book was less about Trix and Finn (though don't get me wrong, there was plenty of sizzle), and more about expanding the world building. And that is the thing about these stories; they are creating such a novel, raunchy, post apocalyptic-dystopian world, that these books just aren't stand alones. While this is absolutely not my favorite story or couple, I still enjoy the world that is being built and can't wait for the next one.
But one more thing, I'd love to find out more about Ryder.
3.5 stars
Thursday, September 18, 2014
Review - Mine to Have
Mine to Have
by Cynthia Eden
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 5 in Eden's Mine Series. While I suppose most of these could be read as stand-alones, really, this is sort of a saga of the most villain-beleaguered group of friends and family I think I have ever read. These are insta-hots and insta-obsession type books and are rather predictable, but they are so filled with drama that they are really kind of fun to read too. So here is a general breakdown of how they connect (minus any spoilers).
Trace (hero of book 1 & 2) is friends with Noah (hero of book 3) and Drake Archer (hero of book 4). Archer falls in love with Jasmine, who brings to the group her brothers Saxon (hero of book 5) and Victor (hero of book 6?).
Mine to Have is no exception to the rule of danger, bullets, blood, and betrayal. Saxon has been undercover for so long he doesn't know precisely who he is anymore, but he has a definitive plan for who he wants to be and an exit plan that he is on the cusp of obtaining. Elizabeth is the ubiquitous woman in danger, but she is pretty feisty so I liked her quite a bit. Book 4 seemed to be the conclusion of the original set of villains and book 5 seems to set up this next arc of villains, and while I enjoyed the book, Victor kind of stole the show to me (as he did in the previous book as well). And while this does seem to set up the next book, he wasn't just sequel bait. I think the biggest difference in this book, from the rest of the series, is how isolated the main couple felt from the rest of the group. I can't tell if that was just the on the run aspect, or the fact that we have branched away from the original group, but it should be interesting to see how the rest of the series shakes out.
Overall, Cynthia Eden is an auto-buy for me because of the non-stop action and over the top instant devotion. I am not here for intricate world building or deep characterization; these are kind of the romance novel equivalent of Bruce Willis action films.
3.5 stars
by Cynthia Eden
I received an ARC of this book from the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 5 in Eden's Mine Series. While I suppose most of these could be read as stand-alones, really, this is sort of a saga of the most villain-beleaguered group of friends and family I think I have ever read. These are insta-hots and insta-obsession type books and are rather predictable, but they are so filled with drama that they are really kind of fun to read too. So here is a general breakdown of how they connect (minus any spoilers).
Trace (hero of book 1 & 2) is friends with Noah (hero of book 3) and Drake Archer (hero of book 4). Archer falls in love with Jasmine, who brings to the group her brothers Saxon (hero of book 5) and Victor (hero of book 6?).
Mine to Have is no exception to the rule of danger, bullets, blood, and betrayal. Saxon has been undercover for so long he doesn't know precisely who he is anymore, but he has a definitive plan for who he wants to be and an exit plan that he is on the cusp of obtaining. Elizabeth is the ubiquitous woman in danger, but she is pretty feisty so I liked her quite a bit. Book 4 seemed to be the conclusion of the original set of villains and book 5 seems to set up this next arc of villains, and while I enjoyed the book, Victor kind of stole the show to me (as he did in the previous book as well). And while this does seem to set up the next book, he wasn't just sequel bait. I think the biggest difference in this book, from the rest of the series, is how isolated the main couple felt from the rest of the group. I can't tell if that was just the on the run aspect, or the fact that we have branched away from the original group, but it should be interesting to see how the rest of the series shakes out.
Overall, Cynthia Eden is an auto-buy for me because of the non-stop action and over the top instant devotion. I am not here for intricate world building or deep characterization; these are kind of the romance novel equivalent of Bruce Willis action films.
3.5 stars
Friday, September 12, 2014
Review - Festive in Death
Festive in Death
by J.D. Robb
This is book 39 in the series, not counting the 10 novellas. For anyone who's maybe not read, you know, books, in the past two decades, J.D. Robb is a pseudonym for Nora Roberts, under which she writes futuristic police procedural romantic suspense featuring Lieutenant Eve Dallas, her husband Roarke, and their friends and colleagues. While each book has a completed mystery, the series as a whole follows the lives, loves, tragedies, and mysteries of the main and recurring characters. The series is as much, if not more, a character study, as it is whodunit. So, while each story presents a discrete mystery, and could likely be read as a stand-alone, I really wouldn't, because otherwise you probably won't have any incentive to care about these characters.
That being said, Festive in Death is somewhat lighter and less fraught than previous books. Eve is heading into the Christmas holidays, and she still isn't a terribly festive person. But, she's definitely more relaxed about the holidays than she has been in years past. That actually seems to be the tone of the book, how Eve and Roarke have settled into this life they have made which is so different than either of them ever expected to make. It is sweet and a bit sappy, but seeing as I have followed this series for quite some time, it was nice to see some of my favorite imaginary people without the life and death struggles. The mystery was kind of interesting, and it is nice when the "victim" is someone you can despise, though there was a bit of a twist in the end that was kind of sad all the way around.
As an aside, I still don't particularly care for DeWinters. I can tell she is going to become an increasingly visible character in the series, but really, she rather rubs me the wrong way.
Altogether, this isn't the strongest book in the series, but it is a solid entry that long time readers will likely enjoy and it isn't anything that is likely to throw those readers out of the series. Eve has grown and changed into a more complete person, she has moved through most of her issues, and as I have said, it is nice to see her happy. That being said, we have kind of reached the point where it may be time to for Eve, and this series, to take those final steps to the end. I don't think adding new characters is going to be enough to freshen the series for much longer of a run.
3.5 stars
by J.D. Robb
This is book 39 in the series, not counting the 10 novellas. For anyone who's maybe not read, you know, books, in the past two decades, J.D. Robb is a pseudonym for Nora Roberts, under which she writes futuristic police procedural romantic suspense featuring Lieutenant Eve Dallas, her husband Roarke, and their friends and colleagues. While each book has a completed mystery, the series as a whole follows the lives, loves, tragedies, and mysteries of the main and recurring characters. The series is as much, if not more, a character study, as it is whodunit. So, while each story presents a discrete mystery, and could likely be read as a stand-alone, I really wouldn't, because otherwise you probably won't have any incentive to care about these characters.
That being said, Festive in Death is somewhat lighter and less fraught than previous books. Eve is heading into the Christmas holidays, and she still isn't a terribly festive person. But, she's definitely more relaxed about the holidays than she has been in years past. That actually seems to be the tone of the book, how Eve and Roarke have settled into this life they have made which is so different than either of them ever expected to make. It is sweet and a bit sappy, but seeing as I have followed this series for quite some time, it was nice to see some of my favorite imaginary people without the life and death struggles. The mystery was kind of interesting, and it is nice when the "victim" is someone you can despise, though there was a bit of a twist in the end that was kind of sad all the way around.
As an aside, I still don't particularly care for DeWinters. I can tell she is going to become an increasingly visible character in the series, but really, she rather rubs me the wrong way.
Altogether, this isn't the strongest book in the series, but it is a solid entry that long time readers will likely enjoy and it isn't anything that is likely to throw those readers out of the series. Eve has grown and changed into a more complete person, she has moved through most of her issues, and as I have said, it is nice to see her happy. That being said, we have kind of reached the point where it may be time to for Eve, and this series, to take those final steps to the end. I don't think adding new characters is going to be enough to freshen the series for much longer of a run.
3.5 stars
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Review- Dylan's Redemption
Dylan's Redemption
by Jennifer Ryan
This is the third book in the series. I've previously read and reviewed the first two. There may be spoilers about those books in this review, so reader beware.
Return of Brody McBride
Falling for Owen
This is soap opera in novel form, so if that isn't what you are in the mood for, you probably won't enjoy this story. There's over the top plot lines, calamity after calamity, characters monaloguing at each other rather than actual dialogue, and an oblivious hero who can't see that two plus two equals four. That's not to say I didn't like it, I did, but having read the previous two I knew what I was in for.
Dylan McBride (cousin to the previous two McBride boys) thinks that Jessie Thompson, the woman he loved in high school, is dead and that her father killed her and got away with it. When Mr. Thompson drops dead, Dylan and the whole town finally learned that Jessie is actually alive, has been living in the next town over, and actually DOES BUSINESS in her hometown. See, as I said, total soap opera. Much like in Return of Body McBride, we have a heroine who has practically been in stasis since he left, and a hero who wasn't quite so pure. This isn't thrown in our faces quite as much with Dylan, and frankly, Dylan wasn't quite so bad (but then he also didn't have that sort of history that would make me forgive him as much so it evens out), and Jessie kind of had more reason than most to shut herself away from men. What I really liked about this story was how much each of them, but particularly Jessie, had accomplished on their own. They had lives, and careers, and friends and families of sort of their own. Yes, they have secrets and mis-communications and Dylan has to have an anvil dropped on his head because delicate hints that are like two by fours across the head just were not helping him discover her secrets, this is soap opera land after all. Still, I enjoyed reading about them and how they got together and dealt with their pasts. And this book, being the closing of the trilogy also clears up a lot of why the McBride brothers' pasts were the way they were. And while this particular book doesn't have the same kind of dangerous villain the previous two did, the villains were satisfyingly over the top bad and the resolution was equally satisfying and I was pleased with the happily ever after, as even with all the soap opera-esque elements, that part felt real to me.
3.5 stars and I'd recommend this series to anyone with a yen for soap opera on paper.
by Jennifer Ryan
This is the third book in the series. I've previously read and reviewed the first two. There may be spoilers about those books in this review, so reader beware.
Return of Brody McBride
Falling for Owen
This is soap opera in novel form, so if that isn't what you are in the mood for, you probably won't enjoy this story. There's over the top plot lines, calamity after calamity, characters monaloguing at each other rather than actual dialogue, and an oblivious hero who can't see that two plus two equals four. That's not to say I didn't like it, I did, but having read the previous two I knew what I was in for.
Dylan McBride (cousin to the previous two McBride boys) thinks that Jessie Thompson, the woman he loved in high school, is dead and that her father killed her and got away with it. When Mr. Thompson drops dead, Dylan and the whole town finally learned that Jessie is actually alive, has been living in the next town over, and actually DOES BUSINESS in her hometown. See, as I said, total soap opera. Much like in Return of Body McBride, we have a heroine who has practically been in stasis since he left, and a hero who wasn't quite so pure. This isn't thrown in our faces quite as much with Dylan, and frankly, Dylan wasn't quite so bad (but then he also didn't have that sort of history that would make me forgive him as much so it evens out), and Jessie kind of had more reason than most to shut herself away from men. What I really liked about this story was how much each of them, but particularly Jessie, had accomplished on their own. They had lives, and careers, and friends and families of sort of their own. Yes, they have secrets and mis-communications and Dylan has to have an anvil dropped on his head because delicate hints that are like two by fours across the head just were not helping him discover her secrets, this is soap opera land after all. Still, I enjoyed reading about them and how they got together and dealt with their pasts. And this book, being the closing of the trilogy also clears up a lot of why the McBride brothers' pasts were the way they were. And while this particular book doesn't have the same kind of dangerous villain the previous two did, the villains were satisfyingly over the top bad and the resolution was equally satisfying and I was pleased with the happily ever after, as even with all the soap opera-esque elements, that part felt real to me.
3.5 stars and I'd recommend this series to anyone with a yen for soap opera on paper.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Review-To Marry a Scottish Laird
To Marry a Scottish Laird
by Lynsay Sands
This is the second book in her series "An English Bride in Scotland". I gave the first book 3 stars because while I thoroughly enjoyed the light fluffy story line, the romance, and the mystery (despite the fact that Sands seems to be recycling plots like nobody's business), but I didn't like one very gratuitous aspect of the ending.
Joan meets Campbell Sinclair when he saves her, and then she saves him in turn, from some bandits. Joan is on a quest to fulfill her deathbed promise to take a scroll to Lady and Laird MacKay, and is dressed like a boy and brutally beaten, so Campbell initially doesn't realize she is female. This is a common trope that I am not typically fond, but here Campbell's confusion only lasts long enough for him to learn to like and respect Joan, and the secret only lasts long enough for a few humorous moments. From then on, it is all heaving uncontrollable lusts, with the one addition that BOTH of the characters think about contraception. (pro-tip, it turns out that wild carrot seeds actually are and were used as a natural form of contraception). However, they get to MacKay and all the secrets come out, so naturally they have to get married, despite the fact that neither of them thinks the other wants to. When they get to Sinclair's, awkwardness and hi-jinks ensue until the mystery is finally solved.
This is a fun read full of pratfalls and misunderstandings and a bit of mystery. There were two twisty secrets, and I'll be honest, I didn't see either of them coming. I enjoyed both Joan and Campbell and I enjoyed getting to read about past characters. So, altogether I really did enjoy this book, and recommend to anyone who likes reading humorous and even slightly ridiculous historical romance, but it isn't going to be making my re-read shelf so I am giving it 3.5 stars.
Also, while this is the second in a series, it should work well as a stand-alone as there is no overarching story arc.
by Lynsay Sands
This is the second book in her series "An English Bride in Scotland". I gave the first book 3 stars because while I thoroughly enjoyed the light fluffy story line, the romance, and the mystery (despite the fact that Sands seems to be recycling plots like nobody's business), but I didn't like one very gratuitous aspect of the ending.
Joan meets Campbell Sinclair when he saves her, and then she saves him in turn, from some bandits. Joan is on a quest to fulfill her deathbed promise to take a scroll to Lady and Laird MacKay, and is dressed like a boy and brutally beaten, so Campbell initially doesn't realize she is female. This is a common trope that I am not typically fond, but here Campbell's confusion only lasts long enough for him to learn to like and respect Joan, and the secret only lasts long enough for a few humorous moments. From then on, it is all heaving uncontrollable lusts, with the one addition that BOTH of the characters think about contraception. (pro-tip, it turns out that wild carrot seeds actually are and were used as a natural form of contraception). However, they get to MacKay and all the secrets come out, so naturally they have to get married, despite the fact that neither of them thinks the other wants to. When they get to Sinclair's, awkwardness and hi-jinks ensue until the mystery is finally solved.
This is a fun read full of pratfalls and misunderstandings and a bit of mystery. There were two twisty secrets, and I'll be honest, I didn't see either of them coming. I enjoyed both Joan and Campbell and I enjoyed getting to read about past characters. So, altogether I really did enjoy this book, and recommend to anyone who likes reading humorous and even slightly ridiculous historical romance, but it isn't going to be making my re-read shelf so I am giving it 3.5 stars.
Also, while this is the second in a series, it should work well as a stand-alone as there is no overarching story arc.
Friday, May 9, 2014
Review-Midnight Crossroad
Midnight Crossroad
by Charlaine Harris
Despite the fact that this is marked "First in a new trilogy-Never before Published" one thing readers should know is that Manfred Bernado is NOT a new character in Charlaine Harris' worlds. He was a main supporting character in the Harper Connelly series and featured in Games Creatures Play. I'd highly recommend reading that series first so you get a better sense of who Manfred Bernardo is, but then I am biased because I quite liked that series, it is so very different from the Sookie Stackhouse series. Speaking frankly I think an extreme interest in at least one of the characters is the only thing that will drag anyone through the boredom that is the first few chapter's meet and greet. Truthfully, it's hard slog even if you are already invested in a character. I'm going to have to admit though, I picked this up fully expecting to lambast it as an awful, money bringing waste of my time, but I've been interested in the continuation of Manfred's story since I read the other series. I'm not going to gush, it wasn't that good, but it was entertaining, vivid, and a solid introduction to what should (assuming Ms. Harris has a plan and admits when to quit) continue to be an entertaining series. I give this book a solid 3 maybe 3.5 stars.
by Charlaine Harris
Despite the fact that this is marked "First in a new trilogy-Never before Published" one thing readers should know is that Manfred Bernado is NOT a new character in Charlaine Harris' worlds. He was a main supporting character in the Harper Connelly series and featured in Games Creatures Play. I'd highly recommend reading that series first so you get a better sense of who Manfred Bernardo is, but then I am biased because I quite liked that series, it is so very different from the Sookie Stackhouse series. Speaking frankly I think an extreme interest in at least one of the characters is the only thing that will drag anyone through the boredom that is the first few chapter's meet and greet. Truthfully, it's hard slog even if you are already invested in a character. I'm going to have to admit though, I picked this up fully expecting to lambast it as an awful, money bringing waste of my time, but I've been interested in the continuation of Manfred's story since I read the other series. I'm not going to gush, it wasn't that good, but it was entertaining, vivid, and a solid introduction to what should (assuming Ms. Harris has a plan and admits when to quit) continue to be an entertaining series. I give this book a solid 3 maybe 3.5 stars.
The whole town (which is pretty sparsely populated) is absolutely filled with people who have secrets and strangeness, and once you get past the meet and greet, Harris starts filling them in at a fairy steady rate. Pay close attention to Bobo though, he's going to be familiar to readers of the Shakespeare series. And while I haven't read the Aurora Teagarden series, I do believe Arthur Smith is from that series. Harris wrote a cast of the type of morally ambivalent characters so common in the Sookie-verse and paired it with a more grounded world view and a good mystery with an ending I didn't see coming, though the secondary mystery was no big surprise to those of us familiar with Bobo. In fact, this was as much Bobo’s book as it was Manfred’s.
Which I guess brings me to my final thoughts, I cannot quite decide if this is some sort of reward to faithful readers of the previous series or if it is a shameless grub to get people to look into Harris's backlist. I know I feel having read both the Shakespeare and the Connelly series enhanced my enjoyment of this book, and that I've never been particularly interested in the Teagarden series until now (I really want Arthur's back story now). I don't think you HAVE to have read any of these series to get into the book, I'm not even sure if a casual reader of this book would catch any of the connections. When Jayne Ann Krentz interweaves characters and worlds I always feel like it is a reward, here I'm not so certain. I liked it well enough though, that for the moment I am going to try to think positive and will be looking forward to the next book in the series.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)