(Mis(fortune) by Melissa Haag

(Mis)fortune by Melissa Haag
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
New Adult Urban Fantasy

4.5

I enjoyed this one much more than the first book. Maybe it was the fact I knew more about what was going on or maybe I just liked the story and characters more. We learn new things in each book, but basically there are six girls with different abilities, because of their specialness werewolves are attracted to them and are able to mate with them (they're not able to mate with regular humans. Dang it.) In the first book, Gabby was unsure what her talents were and how they worked. She figured out a little more by the end of the book. In this book, Michelle is more self aware, she may not know *why* she has her talent, but she is more comfortable with it and how it works. That is until her talent starts changing.

I thought this was an enjoyable story. Michelle and her two little brothers escaped from captivity and are on the run. They cross paths with Emmitt at an out of the way pit stop. He sees they are in need and offers his protection. Not having any other options, Michelle takes a risk to trust him and goes to stay with his family. Most of the book is spent with her time in hiding, which was okay with me. I liked seeing Michelle and Emmitt's relationship grow, he's so patient and kind. I loved how he gave Michelle time and space, but still made an effort to be with her. Then towards the end things start to pick up again and we learn a little more about Michelle and her captors.

Overall, this was a fun installment. Part of me thought it would have made a good first book, but it works well with the series and world building. If you enjoy a good Urban Fantasy I'd give this series a try. I'm excited to read the next book.

Content
Romance: Clean, kissing and very mild innuendo
Language: None (there may be one or two, can't remember)
Violence: Mild, a kidnapping and mild werewolf fighting
Other: Drinking, going to bars, etc.
Religious: None

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Hope(less) by Melissa Haag

Hope(less) by Melissa Haag
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Genre: New Adult Urban Fantasy
Published: November 2013

Pretty good.

Gabby’s always been a little different, being able to see peoples inner light (not sure how to describe it) and for some reason has an unnaturally strong appeal to men. Because of this, and losing her family and having to be raised in foster care, she has built up some pretty think walls. She is about to be kicked out of her latest foster home when she is walking home from the park and runs into a werewolf.

I thought Gabby was a pretty likable character. Considering her background, I could understand her strong desire to live her life and make her own choices. She wants to get out on her own, go to college, start a career and be self reliant. She does not want to be “claimed” by a werewolf at just eighteen and be tied to someone who will prevent her from fulfilling those dreams. I liked that she was always looking for the good in people, especially those close to her, yet was careful not to let people take advantage of her.

Clay was an interesting character. Still not quite sure what to think about him. Mild spoiler, he doesn’t speak for pretty much the entire book. We’re left having to get to know him in a totally different way. Based on his actions and how he treats Gabby we learn that he’s a pretty great guy. I think the book would have been strong if it had switched POV so we could really get to know him better though. And I admit, I was expecting a little more in regards to *why* he never spoke to Gabby. I thought his reasoning was a little anti-climatic. Could just be me though. I still thought they had a good relationship and it does grow throughout the story, which takes place a little over six months. I like that it took place over a longer time frame.

I thought the werewolf mythology was unique, but could have been developed a little more. Same with Gabby’s talents, which I thought could have been explained a little better. I was kind of confused by that. I’m guessing it will be explained a little more in future books, although it’s my understanding that the following books each focus on a different H/h.

I did think it was a little slow in places, but overall an enjoyable read that kept my interest.

Content
Romance: Clean, just kissing and mild innuendo. Talk about roommate spending the night at her boyfriends house and vice versa.
Language: Mild
Violence: Mild, not overly descriptive fight scene
Religious: None
Series: Book One, Judgment of the Six


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The Reckoning by Kelley Armstrong

Genre: YA Fantasy

Publication Date: April 2010

One Word Review: Captivating

Author Website: www.kelleyarmstrong.com

First Line: “After four nights on the run, I was finally safe, tucked in bed and enjoying the deep, dreamless sleep of the dead…until the dead decided they’d really rather have me awake.”

GoodReads Synopsis: Only two weeks ago, life was all too predictable. But that was before I saw my first ghost. Now, along with my supernatural friends Tori, Derek, and Simon, I’m on the run from the Edison Group, which genetically altered us as part of their sinister experiment. We’re hiding in a safe house that might not be as safe as it seems. We’ll be gone soon anyway, back to rescue those we’d left behind and to take out the Edison Group . . . or so we hope.

Kathy’s Review: I really enjoy this series. Armstrong has a fun way of writing that really sucks you into the story and unfortunately before you know it you’ve finished the book. The Reckoning reminded me a lot of the first two books, in that it grabs your attention and keeps you reading. We’re reunited with all our favorite characters and introduced to a few new ones. To be honest, I was expecting a little more out of this one, thinking it was the last of the series. While it’s the last of the “Project Genesis Trilogy” it’s not necessarily the last of the Darkest Power series. Have I confused you yet? For those who don’t know, here is a quote I found from Kelley Armstrong:

"I've been calling the next book (The Gathering, 2011) "Darkest Powers 4" because it's the same overall series. It's new characters, though, in a new trilogy. I do something similar with my adult books--one series with changing narrators. My publisher may decide to give it a new title, but until then, I'm calling it all the Darkest Powers series, with the first three being the Project Genesis trilogy and the next three being the Project Phoenix trilogy."

I’m really excited that there is going to be a whole new trilogy, although I admit I thought The Reckoning ended with a lot of unanswered questions. I hope that Chole, Derek, Tori and Simon all end up in the Phoenix trilogy as well. Anyway, if you enjoyed the first two books you will really enjoy this one. Chloe finally makes up her mind on which guy to be with (a decision I was very happy with), Tori shows her true colors, and Simon and Derek are both fun to read.

Content Warning: There is a little swearing, violence and ghosts. But, otherwise pretty clean.

Bookworm Rating: 4.5

Project Genesis (Darkest Powers) Series:

Book One: The Summoning

Book Two: The Awakening
Book Three: The Reckoning

Project Phoenix (Darkest Powers) Series:
Book One (4): The Gathering (Coming 2011)

Do You Believe In Ghosts?

Never Cry Werewolf by Heather Davis

Genre: YA Fantasy

Publication Date: September 2009

One Word Review: Underwhelmed

Author Website: www.heatherdavisbooks.com/index

First Line: “Moonlight has special powers.”

GoodReads Synopsis: Shelby’s summer plans go totally awry when her horrible stepmother sends her off to “brat camp” as punishment for one too many broken curfews. Camp is full of spoiled rich kids, obnoxious counselors wanting Shelby to talk about her feelings, and a totally inhumane “no cell phones” policy. Things start looking up, though, when Shelby meets fellow camper (and son of a rock star) Austin Bridges III. But soon she realizes there’s more to Austin than crush material—his family has a dark secret, and he wants Shelby’s help guarding it. Shelby knows that bad boys get her into trouble…but who is she to turn her back on a guy in need, especially such a good-looking one?

Kathy’s Review: I was pretty excited to read this one. I liked the cover and I'm always on the lookout for a good werewolf story. Unfortunately, this didn’t turn out to be at all what I was expecting, and I ended up feeling disappointed. Shelby is kind of a spoiled air-head and I had a hard time relating to her and all the other rich, spoiled, famous kids in the story. I thought the setting had promise (although, in real life I don’t believe those “camps” do any good), and even the plot had potential, but it all ended up falling a little flat. I had a really hard time believing Austin would share his secret with someone he’d known for a couple days, and that he didn’t already have a cover story (seeing as its been in the family for ages). Some of the dialogue was cheesy and the story was lacking a good mystery. The only villain was a gossip teen who just wanted to leave camp, not really that exciting. And, I was really hoping for some resolution with Shelby and her dad and was disappointed when the story just ended. Owell, if you’re in the mood for a lighthearted teen book, then you may enjoy it.

Bookworm Rating: 2.5

Shadow of the Moon by Rachel Hawthorne

Genre: YA Fiction

Publication Date: March 2010

One Word Review: Entertaining

Author Website: www.rachelhawthorne.net

First Line: “Fear sliced through me, jolting me awake.”

GoodReads Synopsis: Hayden was born a werewolf, a Dark Guardian. But her ability to sense the feelings of fellow werewolves has made her life unbearable. She runs away, only to be tracked by charming, mysterious Daniel, a newcomer to the pack and the one Shifter immune to her powers. As she reluctantly follows him home, Hayden finds herself falling dangerously in love. But even as her feelings for Daniel deepen, Hayden begins to wonder if he is who he claims to be. Where did he come from and why has no one ever seen him transform? When they stumble upon the body of a Shifter still in wolf form, her worries grow. Someone is killing her kind. Is her handsome tracker really a hunter? And is Hayden now his prey?

Kathy’s Review: This is the fourth book in the Dark Guardian series, and for me totally different than the first three. While it takes place in the same setting, the main characters, Hayden and Daniel, are different from our previous friends. Normally I don’t really believe in the whole “love-at-first-sight” thing, but Hawthorne makes it very believable. I really felt the chemistry between Hayden and Daniel and enjoyed watching their relationship develop. The plot idea was just okay for me though, I think if the “villain” had been mentioned in the previous books I would have found it a little more believable, but as it was it seemed a little contrived and just thrown in there so another story could be told. Not that I’m complaining, because I love Wolford and all the characters throughout the series. Anyway, this was a fun read and would recommend it to anyone looking for a romantic, light-hearted adventure.

I’m thinking Hawthorne end the book with hints for another book in the series, possibly following Seth, I’ll be keeping my eyes open!

Bookworm Rating: 3.8

Reading Order:
Book One: Moonlight
Book Two: Full Moon
Book Three: Dark of the Moon
Book Four: Shadow of the Moon

If You Could Shift Into Any Form, What Would You Choose?

Captivate by Carrie Jones

Genre: YA Fantasy

Publication Date: January 2010

One Word Review: Disappointing

Author Website: www.carriejonesbooks.com

First Line: “There are these bizarre people who actually like physical education class.”

Synopsis: Zara and her friends knew they hadn't solved the pixie problem for good. Far from it. The king's needs grow deeper every day he's stuck in captivity, while his control over his people gets weaker. It's made him vulnerable. And now there's a new king in town. A turf war is imminent, since the new pixie king, Astley, is moving in quickly. Nick nearly killed him in the woods on day one, but Zara came to his rescue. Astley swears that he and Zara are destined to be together, that he's one of the good guys. Nick isn't buying it, though Zara isn't as sure -- despite herself, she wants to trust the new king. But it's a lot more than her relationship with Nick that is at stake. It's her life -- and his.

Kathy’s Review: I hate to write negative reviews and I really think if you enjoyed the first book, Need, then you will probably enjoy Captivate as well. Having said that, I just didn’t enjoy this book. It definitely fell in the “middle book syndrome” where not a lot happens and is more of a filler until the final book comes out. The writing was choppy, the dialog was unbelievable and I just can't relate to Zara. I didn’t really feel any real chemistry between Nick and Zara, even though it’s being shoved in our face. Like the first book, I just don’t like all of Zara’s political ideas and don’t see how any of them are relevant in a story about killer pixies. Zara's character is just okay for me, she is too wishy-washy. The ending was a joke as well; I don’t want to give spoilers so I’ll leave it at that. Again, if you enjoyed the first book you’ll probably like this one, it just wasn’t for me. I do like the covers though.

Bookworm Rating: 2

Reading Order:
Book One: Need
Book Two: Captivate

Mercy Thompson Homecoming by Patricia Briggs

Genre: Graphic Novel-Fantasy Fiction

Publication Date: August 2009

Author Website: www.patrciabriggs.com

Kathy’s Review: This is a prequel to the Mercy Thompson series and tells the story of how Mercy, Adam and the rest of the characters all met and why they settled in the Tri Cities.

I’ve had this on my hold list at the library for ages and I admit I was surprised when I picked it up today and found that it was a graphic novel (I was expecting a regular book). This is my first graphic novel (unless you count some comic books I read as a kid) and I wasn’t sure how to go about reviewing it. It was fun to see the characters visually, it moved along quickly and I liked finding out the back-story of how Adam and Mercy meet. Since it was my first graphic novel it took some getting used to, and although it was fun it kind of rubbed me the wrong way. I didn’t think the writing was that great (but maybe that’s just my lack of experience), I didn’t like the nudity (werewolves/walkers can’t keep their clothes when they change, so obviously it happens that they are nude some of the time), and overall it was just okay for me. If you’re reading the Thompson series then you will probably like this book.

I have a love/hate relationship with the series. Mercy has really grown on me and I have a huge crush on Adam. I think Adam is the only reason why I keep reading the series. It’s kind of dark, pretty violent at times and there is some subject matter that I don’t care for. Definitely a grown-up read and wouldn’t recommend it to teens. Like I said though, I like Adam and can’t wait to see what happens with him and Mercy in Silver Borne, which comes out in March.

Reading Order:
Prequel: Mercy Thompson Homecoming
Book One: Moon Called
Book Two: Blood Bound

Book Three: Iron Kissed

Book Four: Bone Crossed

Book Five: Silver Borne (March 2010)

Book Six: TBD

Book Seven: TBD

Spin-off Series

Prequel: Alpha and Omega: On the Prowl

Book One: Cry Wolf

Book Two: Hunting Ground

The Dark Divine by Bree Despain

Genre: YA Fantasy Fiction

Publication Date: December 2009

Author Website: www.breedespain.com

One Word Review: Serious

First Line: “Grace! You have got to see the new guy.”

Synopsis: Grace Divine, daughter of the local pastor, always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared--the night she found her brother Jude collapsed on the porch, covered in his own blood--but she has no idea what a truly monstrous secret that night held. The memories her family has tried to bury resurface when Daniel returns, three years later, and enrolls in Grace and Jude's high school. Despite promising Jude she'll stay away, Grace cannot deny her attraction to Daniel's shocking artistic abilities, his way of getting her to look at the world from new angles, and the strange, hungry glint in his eyes. The closer Grace gets to Daniel, the more she jeopardizes her life, as her actions stir resentment in Jude and drive him to embrace the ancient evil Daniel unleashed that horrific night. Grace must discover the truth behind the boy's dark secret...and the cure that can save the ones she loves. But she may have to lay down the ultimate sacrifice to do it--her soul. -GoodReads

Kathy’s Review: I’ve been waiting and wanting to read this one for a long time. I was excited to curl up and start reading yesterday and ended up staying up late to finish it. I liked Grace from the beginning and her relationship with her brother Jude reminded me of my relationship with my brother Doug. Doug was a year older than me in school and everyone loved him, so I could definitely relate to Grace in that respect. Anyway, I thought Dark Divine had a very original plot, and the characters were believable. As much as I enjoyed the story, it didn’t quite grab me like I had hoped. It seems like all the problems the characters faced could have easily been solved if they just sat down and talk to each other. Daniel was an okay leading man, he probably won’t be added to my literary crush list, but I enjoyed his character and thought that he had good chemistry with Grace. There were some slow parts and the ending wasn’t my favorite, but overall I enjoyed the story.

One thing that drove me bonkers was the sub-headings scattered throughout the book. I would just get into the story and then bam we’d have another heading (e.g. Five Seconds Later), these were very distracting and pointless. I think, for me anyway, the book would have flowed a lot better without these interruptions. Also, the book is rather serious, a few jokes and light moments would have added a lot as well.

Similar Reads:
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Need by Carrie Jones

Dark of the Moon by Rachel Hawthorne

Genre: YA Fiction

Author Website: www.rachelhawthorne.net

One Word Review: Entertaining

First Line: “Death hovers in the shadows.”

Synopsis: “Brittany is determined to prove herself to the Dark Guardians. And yet she's been keeping a devastating secret: She hasn't experienced any of the intense, early signs of change that mark a Dark Guardian's transformation. The only intense feelings she has are for Connor—and she's kept that a secret, too. But she knows she'll never truly have Connor's love if she's not a Shifter like him. At the first full moon after her birthday, her greatest fear is realized: She doesn't transform. Brittany is so desperate to become a wolf that she'll go to extremes she never thought possible . . . and put all the Dark Guardians in incredible danger.” -GoodReads

Kathy’s Review: Book three in the Dark Guardian series follows Brittany. We get to see Brittany in a totally different light in this book. In the first two, she kind of comes across as moody and stuck-up. Once you get inside her head you begin to understand all her insecurities and the hardships she’s going through. I really came to love Brittany’s character in this book, she may be my favorite. Brittany has been in love with Connor (Lindsey’s boyfriend in books one and two) pretty much all her life, knowing she could never be with him. She is also approaching her seventeenth birthday where she will have her first transformation into a werewolf. In their culture you’re suppose to go through this with your mate, the only problem is that no one has claimed Brittany as their mate, so she has to face it alone. I really enjoyed Brittany and Connor’s story. I was a little confused with how quickly Connor came around, but I guess it all makes sense in the end.

I’m looking forward to reading Shadow of the Moon which comes out next Spring. Everything seemed to come together at the end of Dark of the Moon, so I’m curious to see what Hawthorne has in store for our characters.

Reading Order:
Book One: Moonlight
Book Two: Full Moon
Book Three: Dark of the Moon
Book Four: Shadow of the Moon

Full Moon by Rachel Hawthorne

Genre: YA Fiction

Author Website: www.rachelhawthorne.net

One Word Review: Entertaining

First Line: “The full moon has become my enemy.”

Synopsis: “Lindsey is wild and reckless, a natural rebel—maybe because her entire life was laid out for her even before she was born. Her parents are among the most powerful members of the Dark Guardians, an ancient tribe of werewolves, and they arranged Lindsey's betrothal to Connor long ago. The next full moon is coming all too soon, and then her commitment to Connor will be final—no turning back. She should be happy . . . so why can't she stop thinking about gorgeous, brooding Rafe? When a dangerous threat on the pack escalates, so do tensions between Connor and Rafe. A fight over Lindsey is imminent, but will it be to the death?” -GoodReads

Kathy’s Review: Book two in the Dark Guardian series follows Lindsey (Kayla’s best friend from book one). I was looking forward to hearing Lindsey’s story, I really enjoyed her character in Moonlight and she was enjoyable in Full Moon as well. I’m not really big on love-triangles, especially when they are really drawn out, like this one kind of was. I was getting a little tired of the back and forth, especially when the choice was so obvious. There were some good moments with Lindsey and Conner, as well as with Lindsey and Rafe. There wasn’t as much action in this one as there had been in Moonlight, but it still moved along quickly and kept my attention. Overall, I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading Dark of the Moon (which will be from Brittany’s point of view).

Reading Order:
Book One: Moonlight
Book Two: Full Moon
Book Three: Dark of the Moon
Book Four: Shadow of the Moon

Moonlight by Rachel Hawthorne

Genre: YA Fiction

Author Website: www.rachelhawthorne.net

One Word Review: Exciting

First Line: “Moonlight washed over us, washed over Lucas and me.”

Synopsis: “The moonlight calls to them. The full moon determines their destiny. The dark of the moon seals their fate. A secret society of werewolves. The Dark Guardians are their protectors. Betrayal will put their very existence in danger.” -GoodReads

Kathy’s Review: This book was recommended to me by BugHunter, and I’m so grateful. This was exactly the kind of book I was in the mood for and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Kayla is a wonderful character. Her parents were tragically killed in front of her when she was only five. She is now seventeen and trying to face her demons by returning to the woods where her parents were killed. She gets a job at the national forest and helps lead people on hikes throughout the park. She has made friends with the other “Sherpa’s” and has a major crush on their boss Lucas. Lucas was a fun character, he was dark and mysterious and yet you know you can trust him. I thought he and Kayla had great chemistry together. The book is fast paced with a lot going on. There were some twists and although some things were resolved a little too quickly I really enjoyed everything. I loved the setting and Hawthorne’s take on werewolves. I’m really becoming a sucker for a good werewolf story!! Thanks again to BugHunter for recommending this one!

This was a good clean read (there was a bit of underage drinking), without any bad language (that I can remember).

Reading Order:
Book One: Moonlight
Book Two: Full Moon
Book Three: Dark of the Moon
Book Four: Shadow of the Moon

Alpha and Omega by Patricia Briggs

Genre: Adult Fantasy-Fiction

Author Website: www.patriciabriggs.com

One Word Review: Okay

First Line: “The wind was chill and the cold froze the ends of her toes.”

Kathy’s Review: This is a spin-off from the Mercy Thompson series. This follows the story of Anna and Charles, the Marrok’s (leader of all werewolves) son and hit-man. The story rotates point of view (which I enjoyed) and although it is rather short we learn a lot and it almost has the feel of a full-length novel. Anna was “changed” without her constant and has spent the first year being passed around the male wolves in her pack and the rest of the time being abused and trained to think she was nothing. Then Charles comes along and reveals that she is an Omega.

I enjoyed the story but it wasn’t my favorite. There was a lot of talk about sex and references to Anna’s previous abuse (although neither in any great detail), so that was a bit much. I don’t know what it is with Briggs and rape, but it seems to be a major plot line in her stories. I’m debating if I’ll read the rest of the series. Not sure if Anna or Charles really drew me in enough to continue reading. Course, it seems I say that about her books and then I go out and read them anyway.

Reading Order:
Prequel: Alpha and Omega (On the Prowl)

Book One: Cry Wolf
Book Two: Hunting Ground

Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs

Genre: Fiction

Author Website: www.patriciabriggs.com

One Word Review: Good

First Line: “I starred at my reflection in the mirror.”

Synopsis: “By day, Mercy is a car mechanic in the sprawling Tri-Cities of Eastern Washington. By night, she explores her preternatural side. As a shapeshifter with some unique talents, Mercy has often found herself having to maintain a tenuous harmony between the human and the not so human. This time she may get more than she bargained for. Marsilia, the local Vampire Queen, has learned that Mercy crossed her by slaying a member of her clan—and she's out for blood. But since Mercy is protected from direct reprisal by the werewolf pack (and her close relationship with its sexy Alpha), it won't be Mercy's blood Marsilia is after. It'll be her friends'.” -GoodReads

Kathy’s Review: After each book I say that I’m not going to read anymore, and then I find myself reading the next book. Again, I think it’s because I just love Mercy and Adam so much. I was actually pretty happy with this one; I may have enjoyed it more than any of the others so far. Once again the vampires play a big role in the story line, which means there is a lot of blood sucking going on. Some is pretty descriptive, so don’t read if you have a weak stomach. I really think this series has made me a fan of werewolves, I just love them now! I love so many of the characters that I know I will keep reading the series and look forward to book five coming out in March.

Cover Comments: My husband totally makes fun of me whenever he seems me reading a Mercy novel. I don’t know why they portray her like that; it doesn’t really match the Mercy I’ve come to know. I also wonder about the tattoos, does she really have that many? Maybe I missed that, but I thought she only had one?

Reading Order:
Book One: Moon Called

Book Two: Blood Bound
Book Three: Iron Kissed
Book Four: Bone Crossed
Book Five: Silver Borne
Book Six: TBD
Book Seven: TBD

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Genre: YA Fiction

Author Website: www.maggiestiefvater.com

One Word Review: Unique

First Line: “I remember lying in the snow, a small red spot of warm going cold, surrounded by wolves.”

Synopsis: “For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf--her wolf--is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human . . . until the cold makes him shift back again. Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human--or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever.” -GoodReads

Kathy’s Review: I’ve been on the lookout for a good werewolf novel for awhile now and can happily report that this is a GOOD werewolf novel. Stiefvater has a unique, and believable, spin on the whole werewolf phenomenon. The story wasn’t quite what I was expecting, it was a little slower (not in a bad way) and more character driven than your typical werewolf story. I really liked Grace. She had a good personality, was funny, stubborn, brave and real. I also really liked Sam. They had known each other, in different forms, for so long that it was totally natural for them to fall for each other so quickly. I thought the book ended a little too quickly, but could have easily been a stand-alone novel. I hear that it will be a trilogy and I’m curious where Stiefvater will take the characters. If you like werewolves then you will like this very unique story.

I really loved the cover. I liked all the blue, with the bright red blood mark. Especially the image of the wolf, which I didn’t catch at first. I also loved that the entire book was in blue font (hince, this post being in blue font). At times I got so into it that I almost thought it was black, and had to have my husband double check to make sure I wasn’t going crazy.

Reading Order:
Book One: Shiver
Book Two: Linger
Book Three: Forever

Need by Carrie Jones

Genre: YA Fiction

Author Website: www.carriejonesbooks.com

One Word Review: Okay

First Line: “Everybody has fears, right?”

Synopsis: “Zara collects phobias the way other high school girls collect lipsticks. Little wonder, since life's been pretty rough so far. Her father left, her stepfather just died, and her mother's pretty much checked out. Now Zara's living with her grandmother in sleepy, cold Maine so that she stays & safe. Zara doesn't think she's in danger; she thinks her mother can't deal. Wrong. Turns out that guy she sees everywhere, the one leaving trails of gold glitter, isn't a figment of her imagination. He's a pixie and not the cute, lovable kind with wings. He's the kind who has dreadful, uncontrollable needs. And he's trailing Zara.” -GoodReads

Kathy’s Review: I think my expectations were too high for this one. Overall it was just okay. None of it really seemed that original to me and so the whole story was kind of predictable. I did enjoy it though, for the most part, and will probably read the second book. I guess I am use to the werewolves in the Mercy Thompson stories, so the werewolves in this story were kind of a letdown. I know I shouldn’t compare, but it’s hard not to. I did like the characters. And it had a good setting and a pretty good plot idea.

I didn’t like all the political ideas that Zara kept spouting off, maybe that’s just because I didn’t agree with them, but I thought it was kind of pointless and didn’t add anything to the story. I thought things moved along too quickly. Does the whole story take place in a week? Its only day one and she already has two best friends and is in love with a guy. Not only that but they tell her all about pixie’s and were-people and she believes them. It’d take me awhile to buy into something like that. And, I just have a problem with people in story’s falling in love that quickly, it’s just not believable.

I’ll end on a positive note. I did like all the different phobias, they were fun to read about and I thought added a fun element to the story.

Reading Order:
Book One: Need
Book Two: Captivate

Iron Kissed by Patricia Briggs

Genre: Adult Fantasy

Author Website: www.patriciabriggs.com

One Word Review: Disappointing

Summary: When her former boss and mentor is arrested for murder and left to rot behind bars by his own kind, it's up to shape shifting car mechanic Mercy Thompson to clear his name, whether he wants her to or not. And she'll have to choose between the two werewolves in her life-whether she wants to or not.

My Review: I think the only reason I keep reading these books is because I like Adam (and Mercy) so much. I know Adam rubs some people the wrong way, but I think even though he is the Alpha and super dominant, he really makes an effort to not use that on Mercy. He lets her live her life and doesn’t try to change her; in fact he really tries to change himself. I don’t think I could write this review without giving away spoilers, so I decided that I would put my “spoiler” info in the comment section. I liked that this book focused on the fae, it was interesting to learn more about them and to meet new characters. I like Zee a lot, I was sad that he was out of the picture for a lot of the story, but I guess it had to be done. Overall, I wasn’t happy with the book. The ending upset me and I think it could have been handled differently. I don’t know if I would really recommend the series, it is rather dark and at times pretty violent. There has always been something that was a little off for me, the ending of this one didn’t help. Because of that I don’t know if I will continue the series. I’m very happy who Mercy chooses so I think I would be able to end on at least that good note

Reading Order:
Book One: Moon Called
Book Two: Blood Bound
Book Three: Iron Kissed
Book Four: Bone Crossed
Book Five: Silver Borne
Book Six: TBD
Book Seven: TBD

Blood Bound by Patricia Briggs

Genre: Adult Fiction

Author Site: www.patriciabriggs.com

First Line: “Like most people who own their own businesses, I work long hours that start early in the morning.”

One Word Review: Okay

Summary: “Mechanic Mercy Thompson has friends in low places - and in dark ones. And now she owes one of them a favor. Since she can shape shift at will, she agrees to act as some extra muscle when her vampire friend Stefan goes to deliver a message to another of his kind. But this new vampire is hardly ordinary - and neither is the demon inside of him...”

My Review: Okay, so I’m a little embarrassed to post the book cover for this one. I’m not sure why they have Mercedes dressed like that; it doesn’t really match her characters personality at all. And, I think it would turn away a lot of readers that would otherwise enjoy these books.

So, I decided to give Mercy Thompson another try. I admit, I’m a huge fan of Adam’s and the chemistry between him and Mercy is really what keeps me reading. I did enjoy this one a little more than the first. Briggs really keeps the vampires and werewolves in their more traditional roles, which I like. The vampires in her stories are more “realistic” or stick with your typical myths, like being out in the sun, holy water, and wooden stakes. I love the werewolves in the story as well, and although I don’t know a whole lot about werewolves, they seem to stick with your typical stereotypes. Mercy is a lot more independent in this one. She needs the help of friends along the way but she really has to handle things herself. She’s one tough mechanic! I’m not a diehard fan, but I do enjoy the stories. I am definitely curious to see what happens with Mercy, Sam and Adam (I’m all for Team Adam! and think Sam should leave), so I’m sure I’ll be reading the rest of the series pretty soon.

Reading Order:
Book One: Moon Called
Book Two: Blood Bound
Book Three: Iron Kissed
Book Four: Bone Crossed
Book Five: Silver Borne
Book Six: TBD
Book Seven: TBD

Okay, so I just read on Brigg’s site that ACE has contracted her for a total of SEVEN Mercy novels, with a possibility of even more later on. I wonder if this is a good idea. I rather like shorter series and kind of feel like after four or five books it’s just a bit much and the story usually loses its appeal. The thought of the love triangle being drawn out for more than seven books is enough to turn me away. So, I guess I’ll just have to play it one book at a time.

Faerie, Vampire, Werewolf Reviews

I tend to read a lot of YA Fantasy novels, usually about fairies, vampires, werewolfs or your more traditional fairy-tales (or re-imaginings). More for myself, I decided to keep track of the different books (I love making lists), and I thought you might enjoy it as well. I'll be updating it as I go. As with our Previous Reviews, the titles with a "*" are ones that I really enjoyed and would recommend to others.

FAERIE/FAIRY/FAE
*Blackbringer by Laini Taylor
Fablehaven by Brandon Mull
Faerie Path by Frewin Jones

Grip of the Shadow Plague by Brandon Mull

Lament by Maggie Stiefvater

Rise of the Evening Star by Brandon Mull
Spell Hunter by R.J. Anderson
Wings by Aprilynne Pike
Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr

Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston

RE-TELLING (Fairytale, Mythology)
A Kiss In Time by Alex Flinn Beastly by Alix Flinn

Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier

*Goose Girl by Shannon Hale

Keturah and Lord Death by Martine Leavitt

*My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison

Oh.My.Gods. by Tera Lynn Childs
Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan

Princess Ben by Catherine Gilbert

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George

*Radiant Darkness by Emily Whitman

Scarlet Moon by Debbie Viguie

*Sun and Moon, Ice and Snow by Jessica Day George

Swan Kingdom by Zoe Marriott
Wildwood Dancing by Juliet Marillier

VAMPIRE/WEREWOLF
Awakening by Kelley Armstrong
Awakening by L.J. Smith

Blood Bound by Patricia Briggs
Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer (Have read but not reviewed on BWN)
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer (Have read but not reviewed on BWN)
Evernight by Claudia Gray

Frostbite by Richelle Mead

Iron Kissed by Patricia Briggs
*Jessica’s Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey
Moon Called by Patricia Briggs
New Moon by Stephenie Meyer (Have read but not reviewed on BWN)
The Struggle by L.J. Smith
The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong

*Twilight by Stephenie Meyer (Have read but not reviewed on BWN)

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong

Genre: YA-Fantasy

First Line: When the door to my cell clicked open, the first thought that flited through my doped-up brain was that Liz had changed her mind and come back.

One Word Review: Captivating

Book Synopsis:
"If you had met me a few weeks ago, you probably would have described me as an average teenage girl—someone normal. Now my life has changed forever and I'm as far away from normal as it gets. A living science experiment—not only can I see ghosts, but I was genetically altered by a group of people who call themselves The Edison Group. What does that mean? For starters, I’m a teenage necromancer whose powers are out of control: I raise the dead without even trying. Trust me, that is not a power you want to have. Ever. I'm running for my life with three of my supernatural friends—a charming sorcerer, a cynical werewolf, and a disgruntled witch—and we have to find someone who can help us gain our freedom back before The Edison Group finds us first. Or die trying." -GoodReads

My Review:

This is the second book in the Darkest Powers trilogy. I had to laugh when I re-read my review of book one, The Summoning. It’s funny what a little perspective and reading the next book will do to you. I do remember The Summoning being a bit slow, more character building than anything else. The Awakening was a lot more exciting and I was surprised when I finished it so quickly. This book picks up right where we left off, with Chloe trapped at The Edison Group and her friends on the run. I’ll have to keep this short to prevent any spoilers, which makes it hard because I wouldn’t mind discussing everything that went on in this installment. I’ll just say that there is something about these books that are intriguing. Chloe is a great heroine and the chemistry with her and “one of the guys” is fun to read. One issue that wasn't really addressed was Chloe's necklace. On the cover of The Summoning and in the story Chloe’s necklace is red, now it has changed to blue with no explanation. What is going on with the necklace?? When I reached page 300 I was wondering how Armstrong was going to tie everything up and it did seem that the book ended right when things were finally getting started, both story-wise and romance-wise. I guess I will just have to wait, patiently, for the last book to come out next May. In the meantime, I recommend these books to anyone who likes a little fantasy, mystery, romance and adventure.

Reading Order:
Book One: The Summoning
Book Two: The Awakening
Book Three: The Reckoning (May 2010)

Other Reviews:

The Book Bind

Karin's Book Nook

Royal Reviews

Eclectic Reader

See Michelle Read

The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong

“My name is Chloe Saunders and my life will never be the same again. All I wanted was to make friends, meet boys, and keep on being ordinary. I don’t even know what that means anymore. It all started on the day I saw my first ghost—and the ghost saw me. Now there are ghosts everywhere and they won’t leave me alone. To top it all off, I somehow got myself locked up in Lyle House, a “special home: for troubled teens. Yet the home inst what it seems. Don’t tell anyone, but I think there might be more to my housemates than meets the eye. The question is, whose side are they on? It’s up to me to figure out the dangerous secrets behind Lyle House…before its skeletons come back to haunt me.”

I’m usually not really into ghost stories, so although the cover kind of called to me I wasn’t sure about a story where the main heroine can see and speak to ghosts. It actually turned out to be a pretty enjoyable read. It was clearly written as a first book in a series (browsing through the authors other works it seems she is fond of series. I hope this one ends up as a trilogy and not a long dragged out series.). Since it is the first, it was a bit slow at times, but I guess that it was meant to really develop the characters and set the background. I feel the next book will be a little more exciting. I thought Chloe and Derek had great chemistry, although their relationship, at this point, was not meant to be a romantic one. It seems that Chloe and Simon are the “couple” but I didn’t really feel any chemistry between them. I like Rae and I can see she will probably cause a lot of problems for everyone, but she seems to have good intentions. The book ends on a cliff-hanger and definitely left me wanting more. Luckily, book two will be released Aril 28, so I won’t have to wait long.

Book One: The Summoning
Book Two: The Awakening