ARC: The Water Witch by Juliet Dark

Description:

"You have only to call my name to bring me back", he whispered, his breath hot in my ear. "You have only to love me to make me human". Callie McFay is the guardian of the last gateway between the world of Faerie and mankind. Seduced by a powerful incubus demon, she has succeeded in banishing Liam to the Borderlands but he still haunts her dreams, tempting her with the knowledge of how to bring him back. But loving an incubus usually ends in death for a human. For her own sake Callie must learn to control her desires and ensure Liam remains trapped for all eternity in his watery prison. Only there is a more dangerous creature than Liam in the Borderlands. The Water Witch is also looking for a way back...

Review:

The Water Witch by Juliet Dark

3 out of 5

So first off, the first, 120-150 pages reminded me why I have a hard time reading Ms. Dark’s last book, Demon Lover.  There is a slow flow that is almost too slow, and it has way too many details! 

Callie is a whiney character who has guilt issues, as well as other issues that make her irritating.  Now, she does have some redeeming qualities:  Her loyalty, her willingness to learn, her stubbornness, all of that makes her a palatable character, but nothing more.  She is also a relatable character because of her constantly returning to her “unhealthy” relationship with Liam.  We’ve all had those kinds of relationships, so it does make her more relatable. 

Duncan Laird bothered me from the start.  He seemed too good to be true and too conveniently appeared when Callie needed a tutor.  And in these books, there is no such thing as a coincident.  Plus, look at his name (all you baby name books who know the meanings...), Ms. Dark literally sets it up for us to realize SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT!

Bill the Handyman and Liam the Incubus.  Sort of saw this coming… But on Bill, I loved how he behaved.  Also I think that Liam had finally figured out things, and truly loves Callie with his whole being. 

Ralph the Mouse:  I want one!  I love Ralph and the way he seems to be smarter than Callie a lot of the time just reiterates how dense she is.  Plus, he loves to read!  What better kind of pet/familiar is there for a reader?

The chaos between the Grove and IMP, the Elves/Nephiliums, and the potential doors to Faeirie all being closed seems to help balance out Callie’s emotional chaos.  I will admit that I enjoyed learning more about Faeirie mythology according to Ms. Dark.

I HATE cliffhangers!  And this book has a huge one (like giant elephant huge), which just sets it all up for book 3.  Now, I will probably have to read book 3 because I need a resolution!  But I’m hoping, deep down inside that the next book will be better than the last 2 books.

So do I recommend this book?  Yes, it is an okay book.  But will I re-read it?  Nope. 

Happy Reading!

Cana

The Mage in Black by Jaye Wells

Description:

Sabina Kane doesn't have the best track record when it comes to family. After all, her own grandmother, the leader of the vampire race, just tried to kill her. When she arrives in New York to meet the mage side of her family, the reunion takes the fun out of dysfunctional. 

On top of that, the Hekate Council wants to use her as a pawn in the brewing war against the vampires. Her mission will take her into the bowels of New York's Black Light district, entangles her in mage politics, and challenges her beliefs about the race she was raised to distrust. And Sabina thought vampires were bloodthirsty.

Review:

The Mage in Black by Jaye Wells

5 out of 5

This fast pace book picks right back up where the 1^st one left off.  Literally, they are in the car on the way to New York…

Sabina:  May I just vent just an itty-bitty bit?  Can I just say that Sabina is the BIGGEST idiot in the whole wide world!  WTH!  Slade is ok, but why waste your time when you have a yummy Adam Lazarus there willing to break all the rules for YOU?  Ugh!  And she sure as hell should feel guilty!  Uber guilty.

Anyways, besides that, I do like Sabina.  She is a strong character that has been wounded and betrayed multiple times. And as such she is slow to trust.  This whole book is about Sabina getting to know herself, learning about her other side of her family and discovering what really matters in life. 

I love how Maisey is the polar opposite twin.  But she was reminded me slightly of Vinka… Sweet, gentle and a bit too Naïve.  I thought it was interesting on how different she was to Sabina.  It did give an interesting idea/twist to the “Nature vs. Nurture” debate. 

Rhea is a really cool older mage. She is strong willed, has a wicked sense of humor, and at times was a real bitch… Definitely loved her.  Laughed so hard when she asked Giguhl why his penis was forked… It was too much!

Giguhl and Volva (not to be confused with vulva!) were some of the funniest (and horniest) characters What a perfect couple to energize the book with a lot of laughter. 

So much happened in this book.  You meet werewolves, vampires, and mages.  You read about Demon Fight Club and learn more about the prophecy about Sabina.  Plus, you have to keep guessing on who is trying to kill Sabina.  I mean, really, how many people could really want her dead?  :P

Overall, this is a great book.  Absolutely loved it and I’m looking forward to reading the next book.  

Happy Reading!

Cana

Princess Avenger by Bernadette Rowley

Description:

Passionate and headstrong, Alecia is no ordinary princess. Angered by the cold-blooded murder of her first love, she sets out to avenge his death.

Army Captain Vard Anton, the epitome of masculine strength and grace, is dealing with some dark secrets of his own. When he is appointed Alecia's body-guard, both find it hard to ignore the chemistry between them. 

With assassination attempts and the threat of an arranged marriage looming over her, Alecia realises her time is running out. But Alecia's biggest battle is the one within as she tries to suppress the raging desire she feels for the powerfully attractive Vard. Can Alecia resist Vard while trying to exact revenge and avoiding the lecherous attentions of her husband-to-be? Will the power of love and desire be enough to unite Alecia and Vard forever? 

Though separated by class and palace intrigues, Alecia and Vard are entwined by desire in this wonderful fantasy romance.

My Review:

 Princess Avenger by Bernadette Rowley

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This novel is a great!  It has adventure, it has romance, and there is intrigue.  It was such a  good story, with enough left open, you could so see another book or two coming out.

Alecia is a relatively strong character, though she seemed to have a lot of crazy moments.  She is a bit flip-floppy as well.  The way she can’t seem to decide whether she liked Vard or not is almost as flip-floppy as some political candidates. 

I did like how she wanted to revenger her first love, and also how she tried to help her people.  But the fact that she was so blind to the true source of all the issues in her home and the village was a bit irrigating. 

Vard was not what I was expecting.  Actually, he was not what he was.  And even with that, even with hints, it took several chapters to actually get an explanation what he was.  Actually, it was almost to the end of the book before you get the true explanation. 

He is still a cool character.  As a defender, a warrior, a lover, and a devoted protector… He is like a knight in furry armor for any woman who wanted a good guy with a bad streak in him. 

Hetty didn’t show up often, but she knows things, and makes things happen.  Actually, I think she knows more than she is letting on. 

I did find the flow of the novel a bit off.  Sometimes it was really good, and other times, it was easier to skip paragraphs and pages.  Also, there was definitely a formatting issue for e-readers.  It was hard to decipher when there was a change in the chapter or POV… The only real labeled division in the book was the chapter (so other than the chapter labels, you were guessing at divisions.).  Actually, I think that is one of the reasons for the poor flow. 

Overall, this is a good book.  I recommend it for an easy quick read.  

Happy Reading!

Cana

10 More Days Till It's The End Of The World: A Review From Kim

Description:

Though the Serbian pack has been brought to heel thanks to the downfall of their Alpha, the war is far from over.
Desdemona, a witch of unfathomable power, has escaped the wolves’ wrath, but she will not go quietly into the night. She takes refuge in a place where even the smallest sliver of light does not dare to enter. Though she had to flee, she has not given up on the treasure she wishes to acquire. Her depravity knows no bounds; she's even willing to search for the one who can assist her in opening a Veil that has not been opened in millennia – with good reason: the danger is incalculable.

Meanwhile, there are major changes rippling through the Romanian Grey wolves. Decebel has become Alpha to the Serbian pack in an effort to begin to unite the Canis lupis species. Their numbers are dwindling in the wake of the shortage of true mates and lack of offspring. The wolves are beginning to lose faith and darkness seems to be crashing in on them from all sides. But the winds of change are blowing, changes that will alter the future of not only the Canis lupis, but of another ancient race as well.
Amidst all of this, Sally is continuing to come to terms with her relationship with the playful, charming, flirty, unbelievably handsome bartender – who happens to be a member of the Romanian pack.
If all that weren’t enough, the Fates have decided to pay a little visit to Jen. It’s time to collect. She cheated the Fates of a life, her life. Now they want what they are due. The problem? It’s more than Jen is willing to pay.
Yes, the war is indeed far from over. Bargains will be struck, declarations will be made, sacrifices will be given, love will be tested, and trust will be questioned as evil makes its stand against them all.

My Review:

Beyond the Veil by Quinn Loftis

Rating: 5 out of 5

Though the Serbian pack has been brought to heel thanks to the downfall of their Alpha, the war is far from over.

Desdemona, a witch of unfathomable power, has escaped the wolves’ wrath, but she will not go quietly into the night. She takes refuge in a place where even the smallest sliver of light does not dare to enter. Though she had to flee, she has not given up on the treasure she wishes to acquire. Her depravity knows no bounds; she's even willing to search for the one who can assist her in opening a Veil that has not been opened in millennia – with good reason: the danger is incalculable.

Meanwhile, there are major changes rippling through the Romanian Grey wolves. Decebel has become Alpha to the Serbian pack in an effort to begin to unite the Canis lupis species. Their numbers are dwindling in the wake of the shortage of true mates and lack of offspring. The wolves are beginning to lose faith and darkness seems to be crashing in on them from all sides. But the winds of change are blowing, changes that will alter the future of not only the Canis lupis, but of another ancient race as well.

Amidst all of this, Sally is continuing to come to terms with her relationship with the playful, charming, flirty, unbelievably handsome bartender – who happens to be a member of the Romanian pack.

If all that weren’t enough, the Fates have decided to pay a little visit to Jen. It’s time to collect. She cheated the Fates of a life, her life. Now they want what they are due. The problem? It’s more than Jen is willing to pay.
Yes, the war is indeed far from over. Bargains will be struck, declarations will be made, sacrifices will be given, love will be tested, and trust will be questioned as evil makes its stand against them all.

This is the fifth book in the Grey Wolf Series, and it continues the tale of Jen, Jacque, and Sally.  There are a lot of twists and turns in this book as the witch Desdamona continues her quest to kill all of the Canis Lupis.  Each couple in this book must endure challenges beyond their comprehension.  You will definitely be on the edge of your seat as you read this one.

Jacque and Fane are still the lovesick puppies.  They are quiet and reserved about their relationship.  We don’t get a lot of information on how their relationship in this book.  They just continue on like they have in the last two books.

Jen and Decebel are on fire as always.  They really steal the show in this book.  Jen is full of her outlandish comments and actions.  She enrages Decebel at every turn.  The most touching part is when Jen must tell Decebel that she is pregnant and the Fates will kill their child as payment for Jen living.  This really shows the depth of their love and devotion for each other.  Jen opens up and lets out all of her fear.  It is a rare moment to see the loving and caring person that Jen can be.

Sally and Costin are just beginning their romance.  At the end of the last book we saw a glimpse of their attraction.  Here we see their bond grow stronger.  Sally is shy and timid but does not turn away from her mate even when she is scared.  There story is not as in depth as the other two.  I feel that Sally gets the short end of the straw because her romance is cut short due to the impending war with Desdamona. 

The Great Luna makes an appearance in this book and shakes things up for her Canis Lupis.  She also does everything in her power to help the supernaturals to defeat Desdamona.  Unfortunately, the witch is prepared this time and our favorite pack members are put through the worst trial.

This is an awesome book to continue the series.  I can’t wait to read the next one to see what happens to our wolves, healers, and Fae.  There is a lot going on in this one so make sure to take your time reading it. 

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Happy Reading!

Kim

Secret of the Wolf by Cynthia Garner

Description:

Once a generation, the rift between the paranormal world and the human world opens, allowing supernatural entities to cross. Vampire, demon, or shapeshifter, they can save the world-or send it spiraling into chaos.

As a werewolf liaison to the Council of Preternaturals, Tori Joseph is used to straddling the world between humans and immortals. She plays by the rules and always delivers justice, no matter the cost. But after a string of increasingly brutal attacks results in humans turning into werewolves, Tori doesn't reveal her horrifying suspicion: Someone very close to her might be responsible.

Investigating the paranormal violence, no-nonsense detective Dante MacMillan believes Tori is hiding something. His search for the truth draws him into greater danger as he gets closer to the dark realm of the immortals-and to the sexy werewolf who stirs his primal lust. Now with evil closing in around them, Dante must convince Tori to trust him . . . before her deadly secret destroys them both.

My Review:

Secret of the Wolf by Cynthia Garner

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I was super excited about this book, which is the 2^nd installment of the Warriors of the Rift series.  I loved the first one, and I knew that I would be waiting impatiently for the newest one to come out. 

I think that Victoria (Tori) is an amazing woman, as she is has a lot of characteristics that we can understand.  She is strong, smart, and has survived more in her hundred plus years on earth than most humans in 80 or 90 years.   I also think that her loneliness is something that we can all relate to. 

I think the one thing that I do have a problem with Tori about is her problem with her brother and her cousin.  She is way too hopeful about their redemption/second chance at life on earth.  Almost to the point of turning a blind eye to the problems they are causing.  But a lot of us are like that when it comes to family.

Dante was a great character!  I mean, he was in the first novel, and was kind of a cool guy then, but now, he is just absolutely lovable.  He has his issues, just like everyone, and you can’t help but want to help him out with them and then take him home and feed him pie.

I did enjoy how Nix & Tobias made several appearances in this novel, but it wasn’t so reliant on the previous book.  Honestly, this book could be a standalone book.

There were only two issues I had with this book.

·        I found the book was a bit monotonous, especially when the characters were going into technical aspects of machinery… including the rift device.  Not a big fan of that kind of thing.

·        I didn’t like that Natchook had other names, and that I didn’t realize who he was until after the fact.  It is hard to keep things straight when you are trying to figure out if the character you are reading about is a good guy or a bad guy just because of which name he is using!

Overall, this was a good book, with a lot of romance, action and intrigue.  I recommend this book for your enjoyment!

Happy Reading!

Cana

Bewitching Book Tour: A Trace of Moonlight by Allison Pang

Description:

A Trace of Moonlight

Allison Pang

Drinking from the waters of lethe and offering herself up as Faerie’s sacrificial Tithe …these just might be the least of Abby Sinclair’s problems.

Abby’s pact with a demon—whether or not she remembers making it—is binding, so she’d better count herself lucky that (in the words of a daemon who knows better) there’s nearly always a loophole. But her friends’ reckless attempts to free her, well intentioned though they may be, set off a disastrous chain of events. In no time at all, Abby turns her incubus lover mortal and gets herself killed, cursed, and married to an elven prince whose mother wants her dead. She might have even been able to recover from all that had she not lost the Key to the CrossRoads to her mortal enemy, who promptly uses his restored power to wreak havoc on the OtherWorld and put its very existence in jeopardy.

Only one person can make things right again, but to find her, Abby must place her trust in allies of mixed loyalties, and conquer her nightmares once and for all.

Amazon          Kindle          Nook      Barnes & Noble

iTunes      Chapters           Google          Powell’s    Indiebound

About The Author:

A marine biologist in a former life, Allison Pang turned to a life of crime to finance her wild spending habits and need to collect Faberge eggs. A cat thief of notable repute, she spends her days sleeping and nights scaling walls and wooing dancing boys….Well, at least the marine biology part is true. But she was taloned by a hawk once.  She also loves Hello Kitty, sparkly shoes, and gorgeous violinists.

She spends her days in Northern Virginia working as a cube grunt and her nights waiting on her kids and cats, punctuated by the occasional husbandly serenade. Sometimes she even manages to write. Mostly she just makes it up as she goes.

Follow the Author: 

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My Review:

I LOVED this book.  Let me tell you how much I loved this book.  I loved this book like I love cheesecake, chocolate, and my books all rolled into one.  Yep, that means I love it a lot! 

So let’s just jump right in on why I love this book.

Abby:

·        Now, lethe-drugged Abby is not as cool, fun or inspiring, but then, I guess, she isn’t supposed to be.  I mean, if she was cooler, funner (I know this isn’t a word, but work with me), or more inspiring, we might all want to take a swig of the lethe water!  Thankfully, we only have to deal with lethe-drugged Abby for a couple of chapters.  Then our favorite touchstone dreamer comes back!

·        I love how she comes back with a bang, so to speak.  After having the lethe water “spell” broken, she kind of comes back Captain Jack Harkness style… only with the help of a Unicorn and some Fae. 

·        I do have a problem with why she can’t decide between Talivar and Brystion.  I mean, I know they are both wonderful guys, I think they’re great, but I just want her to pick one for the love of Pete!  Personally, I’m Team Brystion, so that is who I’m hoping she is going to pick!

Brystion:

·        If you haven’t figured it out, I think he is amazing.  He is a complex and compelling character that you want to want you.  No matter whether he is Mortal or Incubus, he is an amazing character. 

·        His sacrifice, his love for Abby, his hope to have a dreaming heart, etc, just makes him all the more appealing.

·        Plus, I think he is sexy, even horns, silver tattoos and a demon side. 

Other characters:

·        I love finding out that the Queen of Fairy is a giant conniving bitch with a plan… Yep, nice twist to add to the insane Queen!

·        Talvar is a cool character, but he is kind of the sad character that you feel you must love because he has had no love at all.  I think it is wonderful how much he cares for Abby, and how he is willing to sacrifice so much for her, but I somehow wish he would find someone else that would love him as much who wasn’t Abby.

·        Phineas is a great, great, great character.  He brings so much laughter to my day as my favorite drunken, late night gaming, horny, underwear-loving, ass-biting unicorn!  Plus, how he loves and care for Abby makes his character that much more loveable!

Now, my biggest question is:  WHO IS THE DADDY?  I mean, I know who I prefer to be the daddy, but I’m dying here!  I am hoping a short story or another book will play with this idea and give me some more happiness!  Because, damn it, I want to know!!!!!!

Overall, this is a great book that will keep you on the edge of your seat.  Highly recommend, and I’m hoping for another round in this series!

If you want to see my other reviews on the previous books in this series, just click on the titles:

A Brush of Darkness

A Sliver of Shadow

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Happy Reading!

Cana

Bewitching Book Tours: Flight By Alyssa Rose Ivy

Flight By Alyssa Rose Ivy

Description:

Sometimes you just have to take flight.

A summer in New Orleans is exactly what Allie needs before starting college. Accepting her dad’s invitation to work at his hotel offers an escape from her ex-boyfriend and the chance to spend the summer with her best friend. Meeting a guy is the last thing on her mind—until she sees Levi.

Unable to resist the infuriating yet alluring Levi, Allie finds herself at the center of a supernatural society and forced to decide between following the path she has always trusted or saving a city that might just save her.

Author Bio:

Alyssa Rose Ivy lives in North Carolina with her husband and two young children. Although raised in the New York area, she fell in love with the South after moving to New Orleans for college. After years as a perpetual student, she turned back to her creative side and decided to write. 

 You can check her out, and follower her by just clicking on the links below:

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My Review:

This enjoyable Mature YA (I’m still trying to figure that out… It left more out than a generic penny bodice ripper, so I’m not sure what actually made it “Mature”.), is a great introduction to Alyssa Rose Ivy.  Allie has gone to New Orleans for the summer, and in the process meets the man of her dreams.  Or so she thinks. 

Allie is an overly cautious, overly controlling, potentially OCD high school graduate, and ready to start her first year of college.  She over analyzes things, under analyzes other things, and is a big rule follower.  It is this that seems to make her an oxymoron, as she does some things that I have yet to see a rule follower do.  Like where she has no problem breaking the law with underage drinking?  Makes no sense!  Plus, it bothers me how easily Allie would accept drinks from total strangers, especially with her being in a new city.  She could have easily been drugged, and her stupidity in this book just reiterates how we are not teaching our young women how to go out and party safely.  

Okay, so enough about Allie and my disappointment of her as a character.

I loved being introduced to the Pterons.  These crow/human shifters that can grow wings and fly (and do a lot of other cool things) were a pleasant change from the werewolves, vampires, witches, and other creatures that seem to rule the supernatural/paranormal novels running around.  I really enjoyed the bits of descriptions and why they are what they are.  I would have really liked to have more of a background story to the Pterons and how they came to be. 

I think that my favorite part was the changes in Levi.  He went from a full-of-himself, cocky asshole to a cocky idiot who love Allie and doesn’t want to lose her.  He seems like a great guy, who just doesn’t know what to do with a girl who is strong willed and confident.  It also shows that even when thinking with their heart, they still make stupid mistakes J.

I liked how Ms. Ivy showed consequences in this book.  There are even consequences for things that seemed right.  Everything has consequences, and we have to remember that.

I hated how the book ended, or rather how it didn’t end.  It wasn’t like it was a regular cliff hanger.  No, this was the freaking planetary jump hanger!  And now I have to wait for the next book.  Not kosher…. *sigh*, I will wait, but I won’t like it.

Overall, this was a great book.  I’m looking forward to more books from this series.  

Happy Reading!

Cana

Audio Book: Red-headed Stepchild by Jaye Wells

Red-Headed Stepchild by Jaye Wells 

Description:

In a world where being of mixed-blood is a major liability, Sabina Kane has the only profession fit for an outcast: assassin. But, her latest mission threatens the fragile peace between the vampire and mage races and Sabina must scramble to figure out which side she's on. She's never brought her work home with her---until now. 

This time, it's personal.

My Review:

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great audio book!  I mean, it was just a great book period, but I think getting to hear it as an audio book was great (it at least gave me an idea on how to pronounce some of the names!). 

Sabine is such a badass character!  And I loved it.  As an assassin, she is the best of the best.  But as a ½ vampire and ½ mage, she is still trying to figure out who she is and even struggles to accept herself.  I think that once she figures out how important she is, she will be more powerful than even she realizes.

Giguhl, aka Mr. Giggles, (and yes, I had to look up the spelling for this name… How in the heck did you think I figured it out?) is the best demon EVER!  I think he was a very funny character who just brought an interesting twist to everything going on.  I know after he shifted into a cat, I was rolling on the floor with laughter.  I know I have personally said “I will not kill to the demon cat” several times about my own evil minions. So I can definitely sympathize with Sabina.  And can I just say that I almost cried when he went back to Hell… I just wanted him to stick around forever!

Adam Lazarus, the mysterious mage and Mr. Sexy incarnate was my favorite character.  I wish that Sabina had just vamp speeded him to the nearest bed and had her way with him!  But on a completely non-sexual level, I think he holds a lot of secrets, some of which might lead to a turning point for Sabina.  Definitely think some of the secrets include her in the prophecies. 

I think my favorite character of all was Vinca.  She was the peppy hippie cheerleader with an occasional slutty side that would come shining through.  She was so nice, and she always wanted to be helpful no matter what, but she was way too perky for Sabina.  I hated to see her go, and I wish that something had happened to change it. 

This book is full of twist that you may not (or you might be smarter than me and see them coming) see coming at you.  I thought they were great, and kept the story moving along well.

I LOVED Ms. Well’s idea to make something as simple as hair color be the mark of a vampire.  Very original in my opinion.  On top of that, I think her version of the vampire/mage/fae/demon myth was definitely different and unique. 

In regards to me reading it in audio book format, I think that having a magical being chart/glossary would be helpful for all of you visual learners.  Plus, this glossary really needs to have a chart on councils, and primary locations for these beings.  Just for reference points, you know.

Overall, I think this was a great book, and I am looking forward to reading the other books in this series.

Happy Reading!

Cana

Dracula's Secret by Linda Mercury

Dracula's Secret by Linda Mercury

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Description:

In a world where humans and paranormal creatures share an uneasy coexistence, Valerie Tate has a secret. Not only is she one of the last surviving vampires, she is also the Dracula of legend, having lived her life in disguise and eventually reverting to her natural, female form after going into exile during World War II. 

On the eve of a historic paranormal summit in Portland, Valerie has come to the city with one sole goal: to kill her brother, vampire Radu Tepes. Radu is about to announce his candidacy for the office of President, but he has secret, sinister motives for his desire to become the first vampire president of the United States.

At the same time former Army chaplain Lance Soliel has opened the doors of his struggling homeless shelter to both humans and paranormals, a controversial move that attracts the scrutiny of the media and the ire of Radu. Targeted for death, Lance is rescued by Valerie. Despite their smoldering attraction Valerie does not want to be distracted from her goal, but when she realizes Lance can lead her to Radu she becomes his bodyguard. But not all is as it seems, for Lance is no ordinary human. He is actually a Fallen Angel with paranormal abilities of his own, abilities that he will have to rediscover in time to save both his life and Valerie's. 

My Review:

So when I read the synopsis of this book, I was like, “this sounds cool”.  I mean, it is an interesting premise:  Dracula actually being a woman in drag.  Who wouldn’t think that this would be an interesting twist on the Dracula/vampire myth?  And it was to a point.

Primarily, I found this to be a story of redemption and how opposites attract (though, they weren’t too much in the form of opposites).  Bot Valerie (aka Vlad) and Lance were seeking redemption and freedom from their pasts.  Both were believable characters, and I liked the fact that you wanted to cheer both on as they reached (sometimes in a pointless way) to succeed in redeeming themselves.

I enjoyed the flashbacks for both characters (going all the way back to Vlad/Valerie’s young adult days).  I really enjoyed Valerie’s flashbacks, as you got to understand how she became the woman she was in modern times compared to the man she was in her past.  It was also nice to see a different twist on history, like WWII, and such. 

The only thing was that I had a few problems with the book.

1.   The flipping of the character POVs.  Sometimes it took a few pages in a chapter to figure out what POV you were reading.  Maybe if they had been labeled, it would have made it easier?

2.   Glossary.  I wish there had been one, as it would have made it easier to keep track of all the supernaturals that were introduced to in the book.  Some were described differently than I would have expected, so it would have been nice to have a reference point.

3.   Biggest issue:  How did NO ONE NOT know that Dracula was really a woman?  I mean, boobs plus a lack of a penis = woman, right?  Then again, there were a few mentions of Dracula and having sex with his wife…. Maybe a strap-on?  IDK… Does make you wonder.

Overall, it was an okay read.  Not too bad, though it can get a bit dark, so I can recommend it for a beach day read.

Happy Reading!

Cana

Moonglow by Kristen Callihan

Description:


Once the seeds of desire are sown . . .


Finally free of her suffocating marriage, widow Daisy Ellis Craigmore is ready to embrace the pleasures of life that have long been denied her. Yet her new-found freedom is short lived. A string of unexplained murders has brought danger to Daisy's door, forcing her to turn to the most unlikely of saviors . . .


Their growing passion knows no bounds . . .


Ian Ranulf, the Marquis of Northrup, has spent lifetimes hiding his primal nature from London society. But now a vicious killer threatens to expose his secrets. Ian must step out of the shadows and protect the beautiful, fearless Daisy, who awakens in him desires he thought long dead. As their quest to unmask the villain draws them closer together, Daisy has no choice but to reveal her own startling secret, and Ian must face the undeniable truth: Losing his heart to Daisy may be the only way to save his soul.


My Review:

Moonglow by Kristen Callihan

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the sequel to Firelight, we get a better introduction to Daisy, Miranda’s sister, and Ian Ranulf. We got glimpses of them in Firelight, but now we get a beautiful eye-full (literally since we are reading) about who they are. 

While Firelight seemed to be a version of Beauty and the Beast, I think Moonglow is a version of Little Red Riding Hood, and a yummy one at that.  Not only is Daisy little Red, there are two wolves vying for her. Plus someone else who is causing trouble.  I think that is what makes this book so enjoyable.  You want to know who actual trouble maker is, who survive and who will not. 

I thought I loved Miranda from Firelight, but Daisy stole my attention immediately.  Her own self-worth has been almost destroyed by her deceased husband and though she tries to play it off that she doesn’t care, she is wandering around with an empty hole that is begging to be filled.  You honestly want to just hold her and let her cry on your shoulder.  But you admire her for carrying on, trying to prove to her deceased husband that she is worth something.

I didn’t really like Ian at first.  I honestly thought he was a giant ass (and for the most part, I wasn’t too far off), but he grew on me like a fine fungus.  Now, I can say that he was an enjoyable character that had many flaws.  I think the reason that I didn’t like him as much was because of the walls he had built due to the pains of his sins.  Once the walls were exposed, and what was behind them released, he was a character you could easily cheer on to succeed in life. 

I loved the theme of this book:  Redemption.  In a lot of ways, it was about redemption in their own eyes.  Knowing that the past has no control other than what you give it, and that holding onto the past prevents any future.

I loved how this book gave explanation on Miranda’s gift… And to top it off, a wonderful twist is given (sorry, no spoilers).  Definitely makes me want to learn more about the Ellis family. 

There is a wonderful set up for the next book, and I really, really don’t want to have to wait for it.  L  I hope for it to come soon!

I highly recommend this book, and I’m looking forward to the next one. 

Happy Reading!


Cana

Bewitching Book Tour: Her Loving Husband’s Curse By Meredith Allard

Description:

How far will you go to protect the one you love?

Finally, after many long and lonely years, James Wentworth’s life is falling into place. Together with his wife, Sarah, the only woman he has ever loved, he has found the meaning behind her nightmares about the Salem Witch Trials, and now they are rebuilding the life they began together so long ago.

But the past is never far behind for the Wentworths. While Sarah is haunted by new visions, now about the baby she carried over three hundred years before, James is confronted with painful memories from his time with the Cherokee on the Trail of Tears. Through it all, the persistent reporter Kenneth Hempel reappears, still determined to prove that the undead walk the earth. If Hempel succeeds in his quest, James and Sarah will suffer. Will the curse of the vampire prevent James and Sarah from living their happily ever after?

Author:

Meredith Allard is the Executive Editor of The Copperfield Review,  an award-winning literary journal for readers and writers of historical fiction. She received her B.A. and M.A. degrees in English from California State University, Northridge. She has taught writing to students aged 10 to 60, and she has taught creative writing and writing historical fiction workshops at Learning Tree University, UNLV, and the Las Vegas Writers Conference. Her writing has appeared in journals such as The Paumanok Review,  Moondance, Wild Mind,Muse Apprentice Guild, The Maxwell Digest, CarbLite, Writer’s Weekly, and ViewsHound. She lives in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Links:

Website

Twitter

Facebook

Amazon—Her Dear & Loving Husband

Amazon—Her Loving Husband’s Curse

Smashwords

BN—Her Dear & Loving Husband

BN—Her Loving Husband’s Curse

The Copperfield Review

My Review:

Her Loving Husband's Curse by Meredith Allard

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This novel picks up a year after the first novel.  James and Sarah continue to live life, making up for 300 years of being apart.  Their family is even completed when Grace, their re-incarnated child, finally joins them by adoption.  Everything seems to be going perfectly, except for the reporter is still out there trying to “out” vampires. 

I loved Geoffrey so much.  I know, I know, irritating vampire, the maker of James, but he is too funny.  His constant nickname for Sarah “puny human” makes me giggle, because in my head it is said with the perfect amount of love for her and disdain for her being human all mixed up together.  I also enjoy Geoffrey living in the 21^st century, but not knowing names and uses of certain modern technology.  It is like he is living in a cave when he calls a blackberry a “bumbleberry” and an iPod and “iPig”.  I laughed through the whole conversation.  I think there were clues to who Geoffrey actually is in this book, and I’m dying to find out!  I think that Geoffrey will be a great character to get to know better.

Sarah is a great character, as she has grown a lot in the last year.  She has almost completely come to accept her past life as well as her current one.  She is stronger because of it and is ready to face almost any challenge.

James is a bit angsty, which makes it harder to connect to him.  What with his guilt about the past 300 years, and for being a vampire.  Actually, that seems to be his biggest regret.  But in the end, his courage is what makes this book great.  Because we all have to get over our regrets to become the person we need to be.

This book is definitely darker than the first book in this trilogy.  With the discussion of human rights with the Trail of Tears and the parallel occurrences of rights for vampires, you can be sure that this book is going to make you think.  It makes you think about our country’s history, about whether we actually have changed as humans in response to people/creatures that are different from us. 

I had a hard time when the television segments were written.  There was no real distinction to let you know that you are reading a television show the characters are watching or if the characters are thinking.  Also, the journal entries are a bit confusing.  They are separated out by italics, but there is no date, and we only have the assumption that James is the one who has written these journal entries.  All of this could have been made clearer with appropriate labels and font distinctions. 

Overall, this is a great book.  I’m really looking forward to reading the next book (2013 can’t come fast enough!).  I highly recommend it!

Other Books:

Her Dear & Loving Husband

By Meredith Allard

James Wentworth has a secret. He lives quietly in Salem, Massachusetts, making few ties with anyone. One night his private world is turned upside down when he meets Sarah Alexander, a dead ringer for his wife, Elizabeth. Though it has been years since Elizabeth's death, James cannot move on. 

Sarah also has a secret. She is haunted by nightmares about the Salem Witch Trials, and every night she is awakened by visions of hangings, being arrested, and dying in jail. Despite the obstacles of their secrets, James and Sarah fall in love. As James comes to terms with his feelings for Sarah, he must dodge accusations from a reporter desperate to prove that James is not who, or what, he seems to be. Soon James and Sarah piece their stories together and discover a mystery that may bind them in ways they never imagined. Will James make the ultimate sacrifice to protect Sarah and prevent a new hunt from bringing hysteria to Salem again? 

Part historical fiction, part romance, part paranormal fantasy, Her Dear & Loving Husband is a story for anyone who believes that true love never dies.


Click here to see the review for this book.

Happy Reading!


Cana