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

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

Descent of Blood by Elizabeth Marx

Description:

When times are darkest, some vampires desire more than blood …

England, 1465. Mortal men clash in the War of the Roses for the English crown, while vampire warriors’ move undetected among their ranks, savoring the flow of blood that battlefields provide.

Vampire prince, Severian Pearce, fears the revelation of the immortal clans to humankind should King Henry fall from power. While in pursuit of Henry’s enemies, Severian comes to the aid of Meridian Neville, a human woman he craves—and not for the scent of her blood … Meridian is torn between honoring her father’s dying wish and her unexplainable yearning for Lord Severian. But as Severian and Meridian work together to protect a relic hunted by mortals and immortals alike, the red veil descends over them. This all-consuming attraction can drive immortals to the brink of madness. Will the existence of this powerful bond between a human and a vampire be enough to unite the immortal clans or is the red veil a scourge set on destroying any chance they might have of happiness?

When all hope is lost, one vampire will fight unto death for his forbidden love.

My Review:

Descent of Blood by Elizabeth Marx

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Holy Sweet Mother of the Great Cow Daisy…. This book was great!  It had romance, it had intrigue, it had a mystical mystery about the red veil and Cain, it had adventure, and a bit of murder.  Add in the old English, and the War of the Roses in the background, and you have the makings of an amazing book!

Meridian is one of those strong, innocent, and absolutely amazing women that you hope that you would be like in those situations that she finds herself in. I liked her first thing after she was handling the crossbow that was pointed at Serverain.  Nothing like a strong willed woman who is willing to defend herself.

Serverian is that sexy knight in shining armour that would strip you naked, have his way with you and then marry you… In that order :P.  And then he would protect you and your honor by killing, maiming, and many other manly things that would just make you want to keep him around… Yep, definitely loved him as a character.

Arrian… I don’t know what to say about him, but he is definitely something else.  As a forerunner to the story, he already knows the secret of the red veil.

Philabe was a great minor character who seems to be everywhere, even when he wasn’t.  Think of this book as kind of like his diary of the events.  I kind of like that. 

I do love the type of vampires that were in this book.  There were enough to where I kind of lost track. But learning who was what, and what skills the vampires have was pretty cool. 

I will admit that there was some slow going at the beginning of the book.  It took me getting through to the 2^nd chapter before I was learned that I loved this book.

The only thing I had a hard time with that disappointed me in this book was what I call the Twilight Cliché.  I knew as soon as they got together what was going to happen.  But since that was the only disappointment I had, I think we are ahead of the game.

Overall, this is a great book!  Highly recommend and I am looking forward to the next book.

Happy Reading!

Cana

Mark of the Witch by Maggie Shayne

Description:

A lapsed Wiccan, Indira Simon doesn't believe in magic anymore. But when strange dreams of being sacrificed to an ancient Babylonian god have her waking up with real rope burns on her wrists, she's forced to acknowledge that she may have been too hasty in her rejection of the unknown. Then she meets mysterious and handsome Father Tomas. Emerging from the secrecy of an obscure Gnostic sect, he arrives with stories of a demon, a trio of warrior witches-and Indira's sacred calling. Yet there's something even Tomas doesn't know, an inescapable truth that will force him to choose between saving the life of the woman he's come to love-and saving the world.

My Review:

Mark of the Witch by Maggie Shayne

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

So, I had read a couple of Maggie Shayne’s books, and had really enjoyed them.  Unfortunately, after getting ½ way through this book, I can’t say the same thing.  I had quite a few issues with this book, so let me explain why I didn’t finish this book.

Issue #1:  After 30 pages of knowing each other, Indira acts and feels like she “knows” Tomas and vice versa.  Uhm… that doesn’t happen.  I mean, I know this is paranormal, but event that is a bit beyond even the unbelievable.  Plus, when you are getting to know someone, the repeated phrase “I didn’t know that” is OBVIOUS! 

Issue #2:  I had no background for this book.  It kick starts with the regressive dreams, and I pretty much floundered through the book.  I did discover after putting the book down for the final count, that there was a prequel short story that I could have read to get a better understanding.  Unfortunately, it was too late by the time I discovered this, as I had no desire to read this book anymore. 

Issue #3:  Tomas’ lack of faith was not inspiring to trust him.  Why in the heck would you choose to believe anything a doubting priest says, I don’t know… And, honestly, it was just irritating. 

Issue #4:  (this is more of a personal issue, but it is still an issue for me).  I don’t like past life novels.  Keeping the stories straight between the previous life and the current life is difficult, and most authors do not write it in a way that is understandable and just not confusing.  This is just one more case here. And for those of you who are then asking yourself why I even read a book that had past life issues to it, I will tell you that the synopsis was misleading.  I didn’t think it was about a past life/destiny thing. 

Now, to the good things about this book:

•  Easy read, with good flow and pacing.  I think that is why I got so frustrated that I wasn't enjoying the book, just because it was written well. 
• Great use of flashbacks when there were some… Though, at first they were a bit confusing between current/modern life and past/ancient life.
• I found Indira’s questioning of the situation and skeptic perspective towards the whole ordeal to be extremely understandable and relatable. 

As I said before, I didn't finish this book.  It became more irritating than enjoyable.  I won’t be picking this book up again to try and read it anytime soon… I don’t recommend it, but if you enjoyed it, let me know why. 

Happy Reading!

Cana

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

Covet by Melissa Darnell

Covet by Melissa Darnell

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Description:

Dangerous to be together. Painful to be apart.Savannah Colbert knows she broke up with Tristan Coleman for the right reasons. Most of all, to keep from killing him with her new vampire abilities. But try telling her heart. Now, lost in a sea of hostile Clann faces, Sav tries to come to terms with what she's becoming and what that means for her future. And that someone is doing their best to bully her into making a terrible mistake.

Tristan can't believe Sav won't even talk to him. If being apart is her decision, fine. Just don't expect him to honor it. But even as he prepares to fight for the girl he loves, forces beyond their control take them both in directions neither could have foreseen or prepared for.

A reckoning is coming…and not everyone will survive.

My Review:

There are books that you wait all year for, because you know they are going to be amazing!  Let me tell you, this was definitely one of those books, and it was even better than my expectations.  

I like how this book starts exactly where Book 1 left off.  Best yet is how it is a smooth transition.  You could almost believe you are reading a new book.

Boy, did this book make me hate the Clann right from the start.  The pompous, arrogant, bigoted group needs a wakeup call (and after the end of book 2, I’m sure one is coming!).  All I keep thinking is what horrible people, especially after the torture they put Savannah and Nanna through.  Really pissed me off.  Can’t wait to see what Book 3 will do to them J.

It broke my heart for Savannah how she lost Nanna, her mom, her boyfriend, and then her dad got mixed in more.  So much heartache  in so short a time.  But I like how we get to know Savannah’s father, Michael, more. 

I LOVE the use of Celtic myth with the Keepers.  I think that Ron is a great intro to the Keepers.  I’m definitely feeling that the Keepers are going to be playing a bigger role in the next book, which makes me happy. 

It is interesting how Gowin, Savannah’s dad’s sire, comes into the book.  He is an interesting character to get to know, and how he changes the story is very interesting.  I also think it was helpful how Gowin explained how a traditional vamp changes compared to Savannah’s changes.  The vast differences and similarities were very good to know. 

The last couple of chapters of the book are both encouraging and sad.  The changes that happen, the choices that are made, and the actions taken are some of the hardest these characters have to make. It is amazing how just a few pages, a few decisions, and the whole world changes.   It also helps that in the last couple of chapters, and even the last couple of pages, the villain is revealed.  I DID NOT SEE THAT ONE COMING!!!!!  OMGoodness!  That was just an amazing twist, and all I can say is WOW!  Also the villain’s actions pretty much help set up total chaos for the next book J.

Overall, this is a great book, and I’m dying for the next book!  Highly Recommend!

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

ARC Review: Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness

Description:


Deborah Harkness exploded onto the literary scene with her debut novel,A Discovery of Witches, Book One of the magical All Souls Trilogy and an international publishing phenomenon. The novel introduced Diana Bishop, Oxford scholar and reluctant witch, and the handsome geneticist and vampire Matthew Clairmont; together they found themselves at the center of a supernatural battle over an enchanted manuscript known as Ashmole 782.

Now, picking up from A Discovery of Witches’ cliffhanger ending,Shadow of Night plunges Diana and Matthew into Elizabethan London, a world of spies, subterfuge, and a coterie of Matthew’s old friends, the mysterious School of Night that includes Christopher Marlowe and Walter Raleigh. Here, Diana must locate a witch to tutor her in magic, Matthew is forced to confront a past he thought he had put to rest, and the mystery of Ashmole 782 deepens.

Deborah Harkness has crafted a gripping journey through a world of alchemy, time travel, and magical discoveries, delivering one of the most hotly anticipated novels of the season.


My Review:

Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So let me get this out of the way in the beginning of this review:  I could not put this book down!  Oh my goodness, this 592 page book was so worth it!  I have been waiting since February 2011 when I read the first book to get to this book.  Unfortunately, I’m sure I’ll have to wait a whole year and a half before I get the next one L. 


Now to the actual review.

So this book picks up where it left off (or is it puts down where it picked up?).  Landing in 1590 England of course is going to be strange, but as excited as Diana is, she has no clue what she is in for.  And that is what I loved about this book.  We all think that we could go back in time and survive and remain unnoticed, but in reality, we would all stick out like a sore thumb (which is exactly what Diana does).  I think that Diana sums it up best: “Living in the past had always been my secret desire, but it was far more difficult than I’d imagined.”

Matthew… What can I say?  He is the perfect, imperfect man of every woman’s dreams.  He is moody, broody, and you can’t help but want to help him, make him feel complete, make him happy.  He is struggling through the time they are in the past because he already knows what is going to happen.  In some ways, I think this makes it a bigger struggle for him, because he wants to change the past for the good of people he didn’t realize were so important.  We actually get to know Matthew more in this book, which is great!  There is so much development.  As a spy, his secrets keep getting exposed; as a member of the congregation, choices must be made. 

Also, Matthew has forgotten some things from his past, which are creating new problems for them to deal with.  Plus to make matters worse, most of the plans are not working the way that he wants them. 

My heart broke several times for both Diana and Matthew, both for different reasons.  I can’t go into it too much without giving away a plot, but let’s just say that the struggles that they face as a couple were hard enough, without the stress of being in the past.  I think that these heartbreaking moments just reiterate the humanity of the characters, whether they are human or creatures. 

I loved Phillipe.  He is an amazing character, and it breaks my heart that we know he is deceased in the present day.  He is a planner/schemer, and he does keep things interesting while Diana and Matthew are at Sept Tour.  I love how in the end, he completely approves of Diana and Matthew, and how he starts setting up the future for her. 

I love all the new characters you get to meet in this book!  Gallowglass (a sure fire favorite of mine), the different witches in the Elizabethan gathering, plus Annie and Jack are all great characters that help connect you to the past and the present. 

I must say I love how Ms. Harkness wrote about the past, making it so believable and relatable.  Also, I enjoyed how she didn’t make it so much of a butterfly effect with Diana and Matthew in the past.  Yes, there were changes to the present due to their being in the past, but it was nothing to a huge extent like making America still part of the British colonies or prevented deaths that had originally occurred.  I thought it was great how Ms. Harkness even occasionally would throw in a chapter from the present to mix in with the chapters from the past.

Finally, my favorite part was meeting all the historical figures in this book.  From Queen Elizabeth I to Christopher Marlowe to Shakespeare, you can’t help but envy Diana from meeting them.  You learn that the historical figures you think that you admire, love, or despise aren’t quite who you think they are. 

Overall, this is an AMAZING book, and I am impatiently waiting for the next book!  HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Happy Reading!


Cana

Banshee Charmer by Tiffany Alee

Description:

When she’s sent to a crime scene and finds her second dead woman in as many weeks, half-banshee detective Kiera “Mac” McLoughlin is convinced a serial killer is on the loose. Incubi are extinct, her boss insists. But what else can kill a woman in the throes of pleasure? When her partner is murdered after using witchcraft to locate the killer and Mac is thrown off the case, her frustration turns to desperation.

Certain the killer is an incubus, Mac works behind her department’s back to chase down slim, sometimes perilous leads. While the killer eludes her, she does discover handsome Aidan Byrne, an investigative counterpart from the enigmatic Otherworlder Enforcement Agency. Mac typically runs her investigations fast and hard, but with Aidan at her side, she’s running this one “hot” as well. But Aidan knows more than he’s letting on—something that could shatter their blazing romance and add Mac to the killer’s growing body count…

My Review:

Banshee Charmer by Tiffany Allee

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What an amazing book!  Let me tell you the only problem that I had with it was when I finished it!  I could have kept reading it, honestly, as I loved everything about this book. 

I loved the chemistry between the lead characters, Mac and Aidan.  To me it was like a recipe for a decadent cake, like the you-tell-your-friend/boyfriend/husband-that-you-need-a-glass-of-milk-for-so-that-you-can-shove-it-all-in-your-mouth-so-you-don’t-have-to-share decadent cake.  In the real world that recipe would look like this: 1 part Mac + 1 part Aidan = Absolutely Freaking Delicious hotness.  And not only did it start out hot, but it just continued to burn through the rest of the book.  I loved how the whole chemistry started out as a pure irritation (on Mac’s part), and turned into pure lust and then maybe it might become something more. 

I think this book had the best characters.  I loved Aidan’s cockiness.  I mean, he just oozed it, especially when trying to irritate Mac.  To add to the cockiness, you add the sex appeal and you can’t help but love him.  (And yes, I knew exactly what he was, before and especially after he makes the smart ass comment to Mac about him being a sex god.)

I also really enjoyed Mac.   She is just one great character.  She is naturally insecure as a ½ banshee living in a world where she is surrounded by “normal” humans.  But she is stronger than she realizes.  She is determined, loyal, and stupidly brave.   She is the character that you want to be real and be your best friend just because she is so dependable… and that way you both can get in trouble together.  

Overall, this is a great book, with a great resolution.  There are a few twists that I wasn’t expecting and a storyline that kept me wanting to read more.  I highly recommend this book, and look forward to hearing what y’all think of it too.  

Happy Reading!


Cana

Bewitching Book Tours: Rae of Hope by W. J. May

Description:


How hard do you have to shake a family tree to find out the truth of the past? 

Fifteen-year-old Rae Kerrigan has never questioned her family’s history. That is until she accepted a scholarship to Guilder Boarding School in England. Guilder is a very unique, gifted school. 

Rae has no idea what she is getting herself into or that her family’s past is going to come back and taunt her. She learns she is part of an unparalleled group of individuals who become marked with a unique tattoo (tatù) on their sixteenth birthday. The tatù enables them to have supernatural powers particular to the shape of their marking. 

Both her parents were marked though Rae never knew, as they passed away when she was young and never told her. Learning about her family’s past, her evil father and sacrificial mother, Rae needs to decide if there is a ray of hope for her own life.

Book trailer:  http://youtu.be/iauHkcm6UQo

Amazon Print    Amazon Kindle     Barnes and Noble

About the Author:

Wanita May grew up in the fruit belt of Ontario - St.Catharines.  Crazy-happy childhood, she always has had a vivid imagination and loads of energy.

The youngest of six -- four older brothers, and sister -- they taught her at a young age to be competitive in all aspects of life.

At sixteen, she began competing in athletics (track and field) and before she turned seventeen, she was representing Canada in high jump.  She continued to compete, breaking Canada's JR High Jump record (1.92m - 6' 3 1/2" for those metric-ly challenged).  She attented University of Toronto, and Kansas State University - graduating with a BS degree in Kinesiology and beginning her Masters in Business.

She is currently married, and the mother of three adorable kids.

After her father passed away in 2009, from a six-year battle with cancer (which she still believes he won the fight against), she began to write again.  A passion she'd loved for years, but realized life was too short to keep putting it off.

Her first book, Rae of Hope - from the Chronicles of Kerrigan - is available Nov 15, 2001 by Mitchell Morris Publishing.  It is contracted as a four book series and available in print and ebook through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Smashwords and other online sites.

She is currently represented by Dawn Dowdle of Blue Ridge Literary Agency. Wanita is a writer of Young Adult, Fantasy Fiction and where ever else her little muses take her.

Blog:  http://wanitajump.wordpress.com/

Author website: http://www.wanitamay.yolasite.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/wanitajump

My Review:

Rae of Hope by W.J. May

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great book.  To me it is like if Harry Potter was a girl, and instead of a wand, you get a tatú.  So let me explain some of the great points about this book.

First, Rae Kerrigan is a great character.  She is the wounded little girl who watched her house burn down with her parents, with little idea of what the future will hold for her.  When she discovers what actually happened with her parents, she carries her burdens as well as any other teenager would: as best she can. 

I did love the changes at the school, how an all men’s school had to integrate the female students, and how the guys went crazy.  Ah, the joys of hormones and the mixing of the genders. 

Other great points on this book are:

·         The glossary at the end (though, it would be good to have it at the beginning, as I didn’t realize it was available until the end of the book).

·         It has a decent ending.  Kind of expected, but not bad as a whole.

·         There is more than a love triangle.  You got 4 or 5 guys all vying for Rae, but even better is what happens in her love life. *No spoilers there!

·         There are a few twists and turns, some of which are expected, some which are definitely not.

Now, I have a few issues that could easily be resolved.

·         This story is how you get the background story very piecemeal.  You get a little hint in one chapter, and 4 chapters later, another bit of info.  I would have liked the overwhelming information in one long chapter instead of several chapters spread throughout the book. 

·         Would have been nice to have a tatú glossary.  Yes my imagination is good, but even nicer if I didn’t have to look up some of the symbols to understand what it might look like. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this book.  I recommend it and hope to see more good things from Ms. May.  

Happy Reading!


Cana