Mortal Danger

Mortal Danger by Ann Aguirre

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


There were things I liked and things I didn't like about this read. Making it meh on the rating scale.

Edie is a girl that has been bullied for years. Her parents are nerdy and have been no help in the matter and Edie is at the end of her rope. She's done her research and is preparing to commit suicide when she is stopped by a gorgeous guy and made a Faustian offer that she can't refuse. A great premise that goes awry from there. Edie wishes to be made beautiful so that she can get back at the Teflon group at school. Wait....what? ..... Yep, beauty will be the answer to all her problems and turns out it is. Along with beauty she gained instant confidence and turns out she can overlook the transgressions of the bullies. (And actually what they did to her would have been a prosecutable offense.)


The love affair with stalker Kian is somewhat believable. After all, they share a bond of the knowledge of what is really going on. However, my feelings toward Kian are in a gray area. I'm not so sure I believe him. I think there may be more there than Edie realizes. Her instincts are screaming and her hormone induced feelings are not listening.

The world building is interesting, too bad the plot is somewhat ify. Too much has been left unexplained. We have two "companies" that are fighting over the world. But they aren't sure why and its not really the outcome of the game that its important. Ok.... so are they just bored? or is there some other point here. And then there are all these sideline players who are interfering but again we don't really know why. The rules of the game are what? Again, no one seems to know.


Overall, I rated it meh mainly because its really shallow. Beauty doesn't solve all your problems and it doesn't make someone being mean to you ok. The Faustian contract is interesting and the world building is unique although the plot needs work. I'm hoping that some of my questions are answered in the next book and give me hope that the series will get better.



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Beyonders #1 A World Without Heroes

A World Without Heroes by Brandon Mull

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I generously gave this book 4 stars, its more like 3.5. I loved the Fablehaven series so I had high hopes for this book. Maybe too high.

This book reminded me so much of a more modern Alice in Wonderland. Jason and Rachel arrive in Lyrian through unusual means just as a group of musicians commit suicide by going over a waterfall and the crowd there sees this as normal. More unusual characters are met along the way as they attempt to complete their quest for the Word.

This is a middle grade age book, and its suitable for the age group. The characters aren't too in depth and the setting is unusual. Its an adventure that will appeal to a young audience but not one, as an older reader, am just drawn to.

Overall, its not a horrible read, but at the same time not a great one either. The twist at the end and the cliffhanger is what prompted me to round up to 4 stars. I will probably, at some point, continue with the series but its not one that I just can't wait to get my hands on. Maybe the next book will be a bit better.



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Witch Song

Witch Song by Amber Argyle

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is an interesting take on witches. Set in a world where witches control the changing of the seasons and the growing of crops and even the wind currents, Brusenna finds that she is the last after all have been captured by an evil witch. In this book, witches achieve their results by singing their spells, and usually with seeds instead of potions or wands.

In this world women have all the power and men are only protectors. There are no worlocks. And while I am all for the empowering women, I still find this a bit sexist as it completely negates half the population.

Brusenna's protector and love interest is Joshua: strong, handsome, brave, and supportive. Brusenna, while being a strong female character, sees herself as just the opposite. She believes herself to be inadequate and can't believe that Joshua could ever love her. And she has been thrust into a society that she has no understanding of because her mother has kept her hidden from it.

Overall, I liked the story. There is more intrigue woven in that is subtle and you don't realize til the ending because not all is as it seems.



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Divine Fornication

Divine Fornication-The Complete Collection by Aimélie Aames

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Wow! What a ride! (Only for those over 18)

Divine Fornication is an erotic adventure like no other. Its definitely not for the feint of hear as much of it is very dark and deliciously twisted.

Claire is left blind in a car accident that kills her parents. She learns to make her way alone and in the darkness til a second accident claims her life. In her fall down an elevator shaft she is taken by an angel and given her sight back as well as her life saved along with a special gift. Afterward she is fought over by creatures of the dark for her beauty and special gift.

If you are looking for a book that has characters with depth and a storyline with great meaning, this isn't it. But its a deliciously dark erotic read that has plenty of hot scenes albeit some a bit twisted, even a hit of bestiality as werewolves take hold of Claire.

I enjoyed this read but I am one that enjoys a read a bit on the strange side and this one is that. Not for everyone as this is no common romance but rather a walk on the dark side.



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The Chase

The Chase by Aimélie Aames

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


OMG What a cliffhanger! Love this series!

Melisse and the Marachel have parted ways as the story continues after the last installment in the Marechal Chronicles. Melisse continues on her way across the mountains and the Marechal is drowning his sorrows in cheap wine after she leaves him with a broken heart.

Melisse crosses paths with an elderly gypsy woman that reveals the path that she must take and answers to questions about the past she runs from. At the heart of all the mysteries contained in the chronicles is the mysterious Alchemist's Tower that is surrounded by a ring of doom. All the while is the trouble brewing in the home of the Estrils, beings of flame and light. All these threads have been delicately woven together in an erotic world with deliciously sexy characters.

I love the world that has been built complete with magic and other wordly beings as well as witches and beings of darkness. An awesome series, complete with a cliffhanger that makes you say Nooooooooo!!!!!!!!!! I need answers! I can hardly wait to continue.



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Hollow City

Hollow City by Ransom Riggs

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is the second in the Miss Peregrine's series and is very much like the first. It picks right up where the first one left off not giving much of a re-cap as to what had come before it. I wish that I had refreshed my memory with the first book before I started this one.

I love the premise of the book with all the strange photographs that make up the story. The picture on the front is one of my favorites and the story its attached to in the book is strange as well. I'm glad things continued in the 1940s and feel like even in todays time war is something that sadly even children have to relate to. The children did so some skipping into other time zones but I sometimes had trouble discerning what year we was in.

There were many twists and turns throughout their adventure. It definitely kept my attention as I wondered what they would encounter next or how they would get out of a particular situation. The ending itself was definitely a surprise. I can't imagine how they will manage to save Miss Peregrine or what actions they will take as their story continues.

If you enjoyed the first one you will like this one too. The pictures alone make these books worth a look.



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The Sire

The Sire by M.S. Fowle

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Loved! Loved! Loved!!!!!

What a wonderful, magical story. Claire and Walter live in a time and place where magic abounds as well as war rages. Claire helps Walter escape from some soldiers after he steals some apples only to find out he's a powerful mage. The reigning Monarch is searching out all the mages because he wants to control magic for himself.

Claire and Walter escape and she becomes an unwilling participant in is adventures. After finding that her grandfather has been taken into custody she seeks out Walter to help put an end to the war.

I loved the building relationship between Claire and Walter. And while I found it obvious where the plot was heading, I wouldn't have had it any other way. I loved the characters and the relationships between them as well as the magic in the air. A wonderful, original story that anyone would love.



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100 Cupboards

100 Cupboards by N.D. Wilson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Wow! What a fun read!

Henry goes to live with his aunt and uncle in Henry, Kansas. Along with his cousin Henrietta, they finds 99 cupboards of all sizes, shapes, and colors along his bedroom wall. They come to learn that these are magic cupboards that go to all kinds of other places. Some are dark and sinister and others are simply whimsical. Henry also finds out a lot of other information about his past that just adds to the adventure.

I loved this fun, magical read. As a kid I remember playing in small spaces pretending to go to other places, and this book definitely took me back to those days. I can't wait to find the next book and continue this story. I would recommend it to young and old alike that enjoy a bit of magic and adventure.



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Jack Templar, Monster Hunter

Jack Templar, Monster Hunter by Jeff Gunhus

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This was a fast fun read that pulls you in from the very beginning. The story is told in first person from Jack who warns you from the beginning that there are monsters out there.

Jack wakes up on the day before his 14th birthday and feels like there have been changes in him overnight. He's stronger and faster and just feels differently. Unbeknownst to Jack monsters will be wishing him a happy birthday. Although there is the all too common theme of the boy not knowing his true heritage, the author does well to put a new twist on things and makes this a definite fun read.

This book is full of monsters and heroes and there are lots of questions that I hope get answered in future books. There is an underlying mystery with Jack that makes this an interesting series to be sure.

Overall I really liked this story. If you enjoyed Harry Potter or Percy Jackson then you are sure to enjoy this as well.



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Anathema

Anathema by Megg Jensen

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I received a free copy of this book for my honest review.

I really enjoyed this read from the very beginning. Reychel is a slave and wakes on her 15th birthday to find that her best friend is gone and a coin is left in her place. We quickly begin to learn about her life as a slave. How they shave their heads every morning as a sign of their place in life. How Reychel is treated differently from the rest by their master.

Once I started this read it was very hard to put down. I was quickly drawn into this story and loved the flow and pace of it. It has a definite fairy tale feel to it as we see the use of magic as well as magic cloaks and portals to other places. There were a few things that seemed unlikely. The use of wigs to hide the mark of a slave while may seem like a likely disguise I wondered where they got such elaborate wigs. The wigs were apparently so lifelike no one could tell it wasn't real hair. Maybe there was magic involved?

Early on a fast pace was set for this read, leaving little time for other characters to doubt Reychel and who she really was. All it took was a look in her eyes and all seemed to accept it. That didn't really make her a leader but that was never disputed either.

Overall, I really enjoyed this read and am continuing on with the next in this series. I am hoping to learn more of this world and about who exactly these people are. We have been dropped into the conflict between the slaves and the Malborn with little explanation so far. But I hope more becomes clear in time.

If you enjoy a good YA fantasy you are sure to enjoy this one. I know I did.



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The Initiate

The Initiate by Megg Jensen

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This short novella is the beginning of the Cloud Prophet Trilogy. It tells of Eloh and how she has become an Initiate to an arcane ritual where girls are burned at the stake in order to appease the Gods. Society is trying to bring back magic to the world by doing so.

Although this is a short novella, the story draws you in from the very beginning and the characters feel so real. And by the ending, that comes entirely too soon, you are anxious to continue her story.

I've not read any of the other books in this series. And while this can be enjoyed alone, once you finish you won't want to stop there. I loved it but wish it could have been longer.



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The Darke Toad

The Darke Toad by Angie Sage

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I really liked this little story. Set between Magyk and Flyte, this takes place during a festival in the Port that compares to our Halloween. Dom Daniel is seeking the help of the Port Coven Witches to clothe his bones and they have an agenda of their own.

This is a short fun read that goes nicely with the rest of the series. Marcia and Septimus are the main characters in this little adventure and they handle this little adventure just fine. The Darke Toad that was introduced is a nice addition and it was fun to see more of the witches.

Overall I really liked this fun little read. And if you enjoy this series you should add this one to it. Its not necessary to the series but it does add a bit of fun.



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Splintered

Splintered by A.G. Howard

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


If you enjoy all things Alice in Wonderland then this is one for you. If you love new twists on old fairytales, then you will definitely like this one. Author AG Howard gives an updated twist on a much loved fairy tale and she does an awesome job.

Alyssa's life is turmoil: her mom is in a psychiatric instituion soon to get shock, she herself hears the whisperings of bugs and flowers, and her secret crush has another girlfriend. Finding herself pulled through the looking glass she inadvertently brings her love with her and they find themselves in Wonderland.

Wonderland is a dark and magical place, full of talking plants as well as animals. And things here are never as they seem. Just when you think you have things figured out there is another twist in the story. As with most YA books, there is the ever prevalent love triangle. And I can see why Alyssa would be pulled in two different directions even if I don't always like her choices. I had a hard time deciding if this truly is a YA because it leans more toward New Adult. Although there are no sex scenes there are some pretty steamy parts.

I definitely enjoyed this read even though it really didn't end the way I would have wanted it to. I love new twists on fairytales and this one definitely fit the bill. Not to mention, the cover alone is enough to make you want to pick this one up.



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Fifty Shades of Alice Through the Looking Glass

Fifty Shades of Alice Through the Looking Glass by Melinda DuChamp

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I would actually give this one 3.5 stars but since I can't give half stars I stretched it up since it was overall a fun read. I didn't like this one nearly as well as Fifty Shades of Alice in Wonderland and I shall tell you why.

Make no mistake, this was a fun read. Full of all kinds of satire, don't take this too seriously or you will hate it. Compared to the first book in the Alice series, this one has a broader range of kink. Its an erotica so its definitely rated XXX, no kids allowed. But it goes beyond that. I can say that even I learned a few things lol. My issue with this read is not that it includes fetishes and bondage, but some of the characters were just a bit too creepy for my pleasure. Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum and the scene with Humpty Dumpty was a bit more than I could take.

Alice is searching for an open mind, and this is a theme that the author definitely beats you over the head with. And if you don't go into Wonderland with an open mind then maybe you should tread elsewhere because this one isn't for the feint of heart. Overall, I enjoyed it (mostly) and am curious to see what is in store for Alice and Lewis.



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Signed Book Giveaway Hop

 

 

 

 

 

Signed Book Giveaway Hop

April 16th to 22nd

 

Featuring Books Signed by the Author

 

Co-hosted by Wholly Books

Through a happy accident we are currently offering two great giveaways. Two great authors are offering signed copies of their books. Author Cindy Lyle is giving away a copy of her book: The Dragon Within. You can find my review of her awesome book here. This giveaway is for US and Canada only.

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Our second book up for grabs is The Red Leaves and the Living Token by author Ben Burrell. You can find my review of this wonderfully original book here. This giveaway is open to residents of US, Canada, and UK only. As always its not a requirement that you follow my blog in order to win but its always appreciated.

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The Prince's Day Out

I don't normally review children's books, but I have reviewed other types of books by this author and loved them all. So when I was asked to review this one I didn't pass up the opportunity.


The Prince's Day Out by Monica La Porta

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This is such a cute children's story. A boy and his sister have a wonderful adventure using only their imaginations. They take rides on seagulls and visit imaginary places like Watermelon City. The drawings are beautiful and their trip so original. I've loved all of the books I've read by this author so far and this one is no exception.


I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.



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This book is currently available for kindle for $1.99

The Gates

The Gates by John Connolly

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Loved! Such a fun read.

There seems to be a debate about whether this books is supposed to be for pre-teens or adults. Personally, I think its good for any age group from middle grade age on up to big kids like me. The main character is an 11 yr old boy who's parents have split up, he's misunderstood by most adults, and his neighbors have opened up the gates of hell.

I love the characters Connolly has created from young Samuel Johnson and his little dog to Nurd the Scourge of Five Dieties. This book is full of humor and satire and the macabre but its all in good fun. I laughed so much through this read.

Overall, I loved it. If you are looking for something that not so serious and could use a good laugh then pick this one up. You won't regret it.



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For more on this book, check out the Amazon link

The Gates

The Dragon's Egg

The Dragon's Egg by Resa Nelson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Such a bittersweet ending to a wonderful series.

We continue to follow Astrid as she makes the decision to release her brother from Dragon's Head. Astrid takes his place only to realize she herself isn't dead. Trep, realizing she is gone, begins his search for her and finds someone he does not expect. Given a quest of his own he must make the decision to let Astrid follow her own path.

Being the last in this series there were so many questions that needed answers. So many lives we wanted to know what happened to. Nelson does an excellent job of tying up all these loose ends. We finally come to understand the essence of the Dragons that inhabited Tower Island and how Astrid and her brother are connected to them. We also get the background for the enemy Mandulane. We see what happened in his childhood to make him the monster that he became.

The ending was not something that I had expected. Without giving any spoilers, I'll just say that the war didn't go as I had thought that it would. Trep's quest in itself was bittersweet. And Astrid got what she didn't know she really wanted. I know that in life there are never any fairytale endings. And compromise and closure are important. But I will admit, in my reading I am a sucker for a happy, happy ending.

Overall, I really enjoyed this read. It was a fitting end to this great series. If you have read the other books in the Dragonslayer Series you will want to read this one. And if you haven't read them then you should check them out.

I recieved a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.



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Fifty Shades of Alice in Wonderland

Fifty Shades of Alice in Wonderland by Melinda DuChamp

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


OMG! LOVE LOVE LOVE!

This read is by no means for everyone, but if you enjoy something a little on the twisted side than you gotta read this one.

This is an erotic parody of Alice in Wonderland. Alice follows a white rabbit vibrator down a rabbit hole and enters a Wonderland not from our childhood. Alice has encounters with various characters as she learns how her body can be pleasured and give pleasure to others. You can't take this too seriously. It is a parody and its all in good fun and Alice certainly has her share of fun.

If you are easily shocked, don't pick this one up. If you like things a bit on the twisted side then this is a must read. As for me, I loved it.



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Review of Chonicles of M: Ammit

Chronicles of M: Ammit by Nicholas Forristal

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.


This was such a fun read! This is the second book in the Chronicles of M series and it picks up right where part one leaves off. Thomas and Samuel are trying to figure out how to exercise the demon from M. The story continues and we learn alot more history of Thomas and M and along with it comes many more questions. We lose some of the characters from part one (I hated to see Samuel leave, hope he comes back) and we meet some new ones (mortal and immortal). We also come to know a lot more about Dixie (she is so cool!)

This series melds science fiction and superheroes and thows in a bit of magic and mythology for the perfect balance of an awesome read. There are some definite twists and tangents that I didn't see coming and that just added to the action. And although this can be read without reading the first one, you will enjoy this series more if you read them both.

Overall, I loved it and recommend it for anyone that likes sci/fic and superheroes. This is a read full of cool characters and lots of action. Its one that I didn't want to put down once I started.



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