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2013 Reading Challenge
Jen (That's What I'm Talking About) has
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New-To-Me Authors
2013 reading goal:
15 new-to-me authors.
1) Stacy Gail
2) Heather Massey
3) Sidney Bristol
4) Ann Mayburn
5) Thea Harrison
6) Virna DePaul
7) Mary Quast
8) Molly Harper
9) Eleri Stone
10) PJ Schnyder
11) Kait Ballenger
12) Denise L. Wyant
13) Lucy Monroe
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Showing posts with label My Favorite Books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label My Favorite Books. Show all posts
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Review: My Wicked Nanny by Ann Mayburn
My Wicked Nanny
Author: Ann Mayburn
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Publisher: Loose ID
Club Wicked #2
Genre: Erotic Romance, Contemporary Romance, BDSM
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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Young nanny Anya Kozlov takes a job at the elite BDSM club, Wicked, in order to pay for her upcoming trip to Paris. Donning a mask to disguise herself she uses the fake name of Dove. On her first night she is shocked when she finds out that the man she is a nanny for and has an enormous crush on, Jesse Shaw, is also a member of Wicked. When Jesse expresses his interest in teaching her about the dark pleasures of Dominance and submission Anya is helpless to resist, even though she is lying to him about who she is.
Jesse can't seem to get Dove, out of his mind. It's been five years since his wife passed and for the first time he feels something beyond physical lust or friendship for a woman. He is angry and hurt when he finds out that Dove is really Anya, his meek and mousy nanny. With only a few weeks left before Anya leaves for Paris, Jesse is determined to get her to not only tell the truth, but also mark her heart and soul so that she doesn't forget him when they are an ocean apart.
What I’m talking about:
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Anya Kozlov has dreams to travel to Paris to become a fashion designer, and her salary as a nanny isn’t going to get her there soon enough. Her design mentor recommended Anya take a job as a server at a private, exclusive BDSM club so she can earn the cash needed to get to Paris. After passing their extensive background checks and training, Anya is ready to start her new job. She takes the name Dove and dons a mask, keeping the “real” Anya private. However, on her first night when she sees her boss (father of the children she cares for), she’s worried her cover will be blown.
Anya has had a crush on Jesse ever since he hired her. So when he doesn’t realize who Dove truly is, Anya takes up his offer of pleasure. Although Anya wants to come clean about who Dove is, she is too afraid he’ll fire her and hate her. She struggles between her growing feelings and her desire to do what’s right.
I absolutely LOVED reading My Wicked Nanny! The combination of the couple’s budding romance, innocent love and deliciously naughty sex made this story one of my favorites. Right from the start, I was enamored with Jesse and Anya and couldn’t help but get wrapped up in their mutual attraction. I highly recommend this story to anyone who loves a sweet romance with a healthy dash of smuttiness.
My Wicked Nanny shifts the point-of-view between both Anya and Jesse, allowing the reader insight to both characters innermost feelings. This enhanced every interaction, allowing me to understand both the characters’ desires and fears, creating a deeper connection.
Anya is written perfectly. I adore her mixed emotions when at first she struggles with the knowledge that Jesse doesn't recognize her and then later when she weighs her options of how to “come clean” with Jesse. I absolutely loved her first “morning after tirade” over getting intimate with Jesse yet not revealing who she was. Her warring emotions are well detailed with a pinch of sarcasm and wit to make it incredibly entertaining.
Again, I also love the mixed feelings of Jesse when he discovered the truth about Dove. He is angry and feels betrayed, but realizes he cares for her and wants more. Then he feels she needs to be free and not tied to him and a little ashamed he didn't see it sooner. The details Ms. Mayburn pours into the characters feelings is sublime.
There is one particularly intense scene when Jesse confronts Anya over her true identity. I admire that rather than drawing out the secrecy, the couple must deal with their situation head-on. The scene had me in tears, and my heart ached for them both. It is a very well-written exchange.
In addition to the beautifully detailed emotional journey, the story is filled with intense and erotic sex scenes. This story is not for those that prefer fade to dark and behind closed doors lovemaking. This is a BDSM story and the pair learn to enjoy each other and the joys of a Master/sub relationship. They engage in rough, kinky sex because it's what they like… it's not a tool used to punish or get over any messed-up past. This quote, stolen from Jesse’s thoughts, sums it up perfectly:
Sometimes his girl was in the mood for it rough and nasty-well, most of the time-but he also liked to make love to her.
Except he liked to make love with ropes and clamps.
In the end, I was just head-over-heels happy for Jesse and Anya. I adored their budding romance and friendship set along side their developing Master/submissive relationship. The romance is simple and sweet, and although there are a few minor complications, they are dealt with quickly, leaving any contrived drama behind. Their sex is mind-blowingly hot and kinky, but it’s the sharing of their inner-most feelings that makes My Wicked Nanny such a great story.
My Rating:
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Personal favorite - a must read (A+)
and has also earned the title of one of...
Reviews in the Series:
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Review: By Private Invitation by Stephanie Julian
By Private Invitation
Author: Stephanie Julian
Release Date: Dec. 31, 2012
Publisher: Berkley Trade
Salon Games #1
ISBN: #978-0425262870
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Erotic
Format(s): Paperback (320 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Antiques dealer Annabelle Elder’s life is nowhere near as passionate as the erotic art she collects. A cheating ex-boyfriend and her business have seen to that. So when she attends a New Year’s Eve party at Haven Hotel, she sees a chance to blow off some steam. But she never expected to meet anyone like Jared—or to experience such passion in his arms…
Handsome, rich, and charming as hell, Jared Golden brought his Midas touch to Haven Hotel—and created an anything-goes pleasure palace on one floor to cater to his special friends and their very special desires. After falling in lust with Annabelle at first sight, seducing her was easier than he expected. What he didn’t expect was to be seduced in turn…
But unrestrained passion in the bedroom is not the only spark between Annabelle and Jared. Their mutual attraction is confounded by their separate pasts. Caught in an ever-growing web of painful secrets and sensual fantasy, will they be able to face the truth about themselves and trust in true love?
What I’m talking about:
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I have been a big fan of Stephanie Julian’s paranormal stories for several years, so I was excited to have the opportunity to review her latest release, By Private Invitation. Starting this book I had no idea what it was about, but knowing Ms. Julian, it would be sexy!
The first chapter not only sets the stage for the reader, but it grabs ahold and doesn’t let the reader go. Right up front, we learn that our hero, Jared, is a pleasure seeker and part owner of a hedonistic pleasure hotel. He clearly enjoys sexual exploits outside of the norm. He has a private room known as the Salon, where friends can experience their inner most sexual fantasies, by invitation only. In addition, we learn that his family has been "cursed in love" when a ring and pin were stolen. And... hmmmm... Is that the missing pin that our heroine Annabelle is wearing?! Annabelle is ready for a night of pleasure after having a lousy year in the romance department.
There is just something special about By Private Invitation that captured my imagination and warmed my heart. The book is first and foremost a delightful romance. It’s a refreshing change to enjoy an erotic contemporary romance where the main characters are generally both mentally and emotionally healthy! Both Jared and Annabelle have a robust sexual appetite and make no excuses for wanting a “no strings attached” relationship. However, once they spend time with each other, they realize that there is more between them than just hot sex (and *fans self* it is HOT!)
Although they come from different backgrounds, Annabelle and Jared have much in common. I love that Jared wanted Annabelle to talk about her work and art just as much as he wanted her sexually. As the couple get to know one another, we learn that Annabelle has a pretty big secret... and I admit it took me by surprise! However, all of the clues were there, and I’m a little embarrassed that I didn’t piece it together before the reveal. All I can say is that I was so wrapped up in what was happening between Jared and Annabelle, I just didn’t see anything else. The reveal happens fairly early on, and the twist adds an additional layer of complexity to an already interesting tale. The balance of Annabelle’s perceived need to keep her secret and her desire to be accepted by Jared creates tension between the two that was realistic and didn't come across contrived. I enjoyed watching them help each other grow--they made the other a better, more complete individual.
Despite the fact that Annabelle’s secret plays a fairly significant roll in the story, much of the interactions between the different characters is fairly open and honest. Once of my favorite scenes is a frank discussion between Jared and his parents. In addition, both main characters are sincere with themselves as they evaluate their own feelings and the situation.
I don’t have really anything negative to say about By Private Invitation. However, I felt that the continual self-introspection grew to be tiresome near the end of the book -- both characters were constantly reminding themselves it's only for sex, etc. In addition, although the sex was off the charts hot, other than a fairly vanilla ménage and voyeurism, it wasn't overly kinky or naughty. And my only real criticism is that after the nth time, it started to feel a little repetitive, but not in a way that turns the reader off.
In the end, I was totally choked up during the climatic scene between Jared and Annabelle. The display of raw emotion was touching and just plain awesome. Overall, By Private Invitation is a hot, sensual story, full of great heart and a pleasure to read. I cannot wait to read the next book!
My Rating:
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Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
and has also earned the title of one of...
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Review: Riveted by Meljean Brook
Riveted
Author: Meljean Brook
Release Date: Sept. 4, 2012
Publisher: Berkley
Iron Seas #3
ISBN: #978-0425256046
Genre: Steampunk Romance
Format(s): Paperback (416 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher, Author
About the book:
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A century after a devastating volcanic eruption forced Iceland’s inhabitants to abandon its shores, the island has become enshrouded in legend. But the truth behind the legends is mechanical, not magical—and the mystery of the island a matter of life and death for a community of women who once spilled noble blood to secure their freedom.
Five years ago, Annika unwittingly endangered that secret, but her sister Källa took the blame and was exiled. Now Annika serves on an airship, searching for her sister and longing to return home. But that home is threatened when scientific expedition leader David Kentewess comes aboard, looking to expose Annika’s secrets. Then disaster strikes, leaving David and Annika stranded on a glacier and pursued by a madman, with their very survival depending on keeping the heat rising between them—and generating lots of steam…
What I’m talking about:
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Although Riveted is the third book in the Iron Seas series, it is a completely stand alone story. The only knowledge you need from the prior books is the history of Ms. Brook's world - one where the Horde (Khan's) invaded much of Europe and Africa, infecting the people with nanoagents and ruling for a long time. However, she explains much of the basics along the way, so newcomers can jump right in. You can also check out Ms. Brook’s Iron Seas Primer on her website HERE.
The story follows Annika Fridasdottor and her journey to find her sister, Källa. Annika left her small, isolated (and completely hidden from the outside world) settlement to travel the New World as an engineer on an airship, and for four years, she was unsuccessful in her quest. It was fate that brought David Kentewess into her life. David, a vulcanologist headed to iceland aboard Annika's ship, is searching for the small village his mother hailed from so that he can fulfill her dying wish. It doesn't take long for David and Annika to realize his mother is from the same place as Annika.
First, a bit about our main couple. Annika is a kick-butt heroine in her own quiet, subdued way - although she would disagree that she is even a heroine. She is fiercely loyal, smart and unique. Living most of her life in isolation, she has an almost innocent nature, yet she is extremely knowledgable and capable. She is mostly on her own, making few friends and keeping even those at a distance. She feels a fast rapport with David, who is a bit of a loner himself. David’s mother and several of his father’s native people were killed in a huge accident caused by inventor Paolo di Fiore. David himself was grossly disfigured, losing two legs, a hand and one of his eyes. Although he has supplemented his losses with nanoagents and prosthetics, he is regarded by most in the New World as a monster. The fact the Ms. Brook can turn a damaged man who isn't handsome into a sexy hero says a lot about her mad writing skills. Since neither Annika nor David is “proper” or adheres to society’s conventions allows for a genuine relationship to develop beyond all expectations (and I love it!).
There are so many layers in this story. The first as mentioned, is Annika’s search for her sister. The next involves David’s wish to find his mother's home and Annika's opposing desire to keep her village hidden and protected. David’s unquenchable need to locate this mysterious village is what first brings him to Annika. After unsuccessfully attempting to garner any information about Annika’s home, he lays his cards on the table. It was because of his abruptness and honesty, followed by a genuine apology, that allows Annika to trust David. This is a perfect example of how the pair breaks through protocol and expectations to reconcile, thus creating a stronger bond.
Another layer of the story revolves around the di Fiore family - Paolo, a father whose visions and ideas rival those of DaVinci, and Lorenzo, the psychotic son willing to do anything to make his father's wishes come true. Early on, David has a run in with Lorenzo, who attempts to hire David for his father’s latest project. Although David turns down the offer, it’s not the last we see of Lorenzo. This part of the story caused a bit of nail biting for me, but kept me glued to the pages--eager to find out how David and Annika would right the wrongs occurring around them.
Although the storytelling and intricately woven plots make this book well worth the read, it is the powerful emotions the story stirs that make it a favorite. Time and time again - scene after scene - I was absolutely blown away by the intensity and genuine honesty of raw emotions aroused within myself. First, there is the innocent desire that two lonely people feel for one another. It is sweet and even slightly erotic. Ms. Brook brought the lust to a slow, simmering boil that eventually exploded on the pages.
Next there is the determination in both David (to see that his mother's final wishes are met) and Annika (to protect her village and people). In the scene when David bears all about his mother’s death, I teared up. I was torn. I felt for both and wished to find a solution to this dead end. It was so well written.
The entire situation with the di Fiore family brought an array of emotions to the surface. It was so hard for me to read Annika and David go through what they did - to witness them pretend everything was okay when it wasn’t.
I could go on and on about the many scenes that stole my heart. However, when David proclaims his love to Annika and Annika’s subsequent goodbye to David are probably my favorites. Just thinking about them now causes my heart to swell and frankly my eyes to tear up. I wish I was more articulate and could describe the immense emotional reactions. But my longing to see the couple happily together grew as their longing to love one another deepened. Love it!!
Riveted is a love story at its core. The love of a man and woman, the love of a person for his/her family, the love for life, the love of home. All of these are so wonderfully detailed and described. The story warmed me from the inside out and I know it will stick with me for a long while.
So I’ll just conclude with WOW! What an absolutely wonderful book. Like I said before, I cannot put into words how lovely Ms. Brook’s writing truly is. Her world-building skills and ability to detail the scene without overburdening the reader is superb. The multifaceted story lines are interesting and captivating. But it’s the characters and their journeys that will keep you thinking about the book long after you’ve put it down.
My Rating:
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Personal favorite - a must read (A+)
and has also earned the title of one of...
Reviews in the Series:
"Mina Wentworth and the Invisible City"
Labels:
5 stars,
Berkley Trade,
Iron Seas,
Meljean Brook,
My Favorite Books,
romance,
steampunk,
Twimom Review
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1 comments
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Review: Gunmetal Magic by Ilona Andrews
Gunmetal Magic
Author: Ilona Andrews
Release Date: July 31, 2012
Publisher: ACE
Kate Daniels #5.5
ISBN: #978-0425256138
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (448 pgs*), e-book
*includes novella, Magic Gifts
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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After being kicked out of the Order of the Knights of Merciful Aid, Andrea’s whole existence is in shambles. All she can do is to try to put herself back together, something made easier by working for Cutting Edge, a small investigative firm owned by her best friend Kate Daniels.
When several shapeshifters working for Raphael Medrano—the male alpha of the Clan Bouda and Andrea’s former lover—die unexpectedly at a dig site, Andrea is assigned to investigate…and must work with Raphael. As Andrea’s search for the killer leads her into the secret underbelly of supernatural Atlanta, she knows that dealing with her feelings for Raphael might have to take a back seat to saving the world…
What I’m talking about:
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Note: although the book is 434 pages, Gunmetal Magic is only 326 pages, and the rest of the book (108 pages) is the novella, “Magic Gifts”, which is told from Kate's POV and overlaps in time with some of Gunmetal Magic. “Magic Gifts” was offered as a free novella on the authors' website in December 2011, and our review is HERE.
When I found out that Ilona Andrews was going to write a book in her Kate Daniels series from the POV of Kate’s best friend, Andrea, I was SOOOOO excited. Andrea and Raphael were my introduction to the Kate Daniels world via the novella, “Magic Mourns” found in the anthology Must Love Hellhounds. I’ve held a soft spot in my heart for the couple since the start, and boy have they had some tough times lately.
Andrea is a hyena-shifter (bouda), but she had a father that was an animal who turned human, making her a “beastkin.” Most beastkins are killed immediately; however, Andrea was kept around to be tortured for entertainment purposes by her sadistic pack. Once she escaped her clan, she dedicated her life to the Order - protecting mankind from the magic that has taken over the Earth. The only thing - she had to hide her true self, so when the Order discovered Andrea was a shifter, she was “retired.” Andrea went into hiding, and Raphael apparently moved on. Let’s just say the opening of this book not only ripped out my heart, but stomped on it with very large boots.
If you haven’t read the Kate Daniels series, stop right now... go buy Magic Bites, and you can thank me later. I will say one could pick up Gunmetal Magic without having read the series and enjoy it quite a lot, but the book is so much more because of the well-written, richly detailed series. The fact that this book is told from someone other than Kate's point of view makes it even easier for new people to pick up the series. However, you would really be doing a disservice to yourself if you didn't read the entire Kate series from the start. It's just that incredible.
Gunmetal Magic has two primary tales to tell. First (and foremost for me) is the story of Andrea and Raphael. They are in a very low place, and the book chronicles their efforts to work through the pain and find a happy place-whether together or alone. Second, the book outlines a mystery to be solved. Raphael’s reclamation company is working a building when four shifters are killed. Pack security hires Andrea to find out what happened. Unfortunately, the murders appear to be related to some deadly supernatural beings no one has seen before - and someone will stop for nothing to possess Andrea.
Once again, I find that the writing team of Ilona Andrews has created a story full of of wit, sarcasm, action, friendship, love, and put it all together with amazing detail and description. Yet the weight of the world-building details never bogs down the plot. The flow of the story is seamless; each scene building upon the last. Their ability to create such a richly detailed world will draw you in and not let go.
Did I mention the humor? There are so many places where I found myself chuckling. One perfect example is this exchange between best friends, Kate and Andrea:
Kate smirked.
“What?”
“Your horse looks pink.”
“So?”
“If you paste some stars on her butt, you’ll be riding My Little Pony.”
“Bugger off.” I patted the mare’s neck. “Don’t listen to her, Sugar. You are the cutest horsey ever. The correct name for her color is strawberry roan, by the way.”
“Strawberry shortcake, more like it. Does Strawberry Shortcake know you stole her horse? She will be berry, berry angry with you.”
I looked at her from under half-lowered eyelids. “I can shoot you right here, on this road, and nobody will ever find your body.”
At the heart of this book is the story of Andrea and Raphael. Forced to work together after things have fallen apart, their love story is woven into the plot and around the murder mystery perfectly. Andrea is hurting beyond words, and her pain reaches the depths of my soul, causing more than a few tears during the book. She is tough and struggles to find her place in her new, post-Order world. Her fierceness is incredible, and she rivals Kate for the best “kiss-a$$ chick.” I don’t want to give any spoilers, but let’s just say that both Andrea and Raphael make both good and poor choices during the story. I love that the writers push you right to the emotional edge, but then make it better. There are so many paths their story could have played out, and the writers chose not to use overplayed cliches and plot devices.
For long-time fans of the series, Kate, Curran, Doolittle, Jim, Aunt B and others all play rolls in this book. By far, my favorite side character is Roman, the black volhv (think dark priest with magical abilities.) Roman was first introduced in Magic Slays when the Pack needed to disarm an anti-magic bomb. His humor is the ideal contrast to the severity of the situation. I hope to see more of Roman in upcoming novels.
Gunmetal Magic is an amazing story and wonderful addition to the Kate Daniels series. Andrea and Raphael go through so much and just when you want to scream, kick and cry, the world turns out okay. But the things that happen are not contrived. Every detail, whether painful or joyous, is honest and exciting. The book takes you to highs and lows. It is pretty perfect in that way. The story flowed and action never stopped. It rocked my emotions and warmed my heart.
My Rating:
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Personal favorite - a must read (A+)
and Gunmetal Magic is one of...
Purchase Info:
Books/Reviews in the Series:
Magic Bites
Magic Burns
Magic Strikes
“Magic Mourns”
Labels:
5 stars,
ACE,
Ilona Andrews,
Kate Daniels,
My Favorite Books,
Twimom Review,
urban fantasy
|
5
comments
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Review: Head Rush
Head Rush
Author: Carolyn Crane
Release Date: Dec. 6, 2011
Publisher: Samhain
The Disillusionists #3
ISBN: #978-1609286255
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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JUSTINE JONES FACES HER ULTIMATE ENEMY: HERSELF
In an attempt to put her unhappy past behind her, Justine Jones throws herself into nursing school and planning her wedding to the man of her dreams. But something is off. Random details aren’t adding up…and is it her imagination, or are her friends and fiancé keeping secrets from her? And what’s with this strange sense of unease, and her odd new headaches?
Justine tries to stay upbeat as Midcity cowers under martial law, sleepwalking cannibals, and a mysterious rash of paranormal copycat violence, but her search for answers leads her into the most dangerous mind game yet.
With the help of unlikely allies, including her paranoid dad and best frenemy Simon, Justine fights her ultimate foe…and unravels the most startling mystery of all.
What I’m talking about:
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Disclaimer: I don't know how to write a review of Head Rush without giving spoilers from the first two books. SO... if you haven’t read the previous two books of the Distillusionists Trilogy, go back and start with Mind Games. NOW!
*WARNING: Spoilers from book 2*
Our heroine, Justine Jones, has been through a lot the past few months. She went from paranoid hypochondriac, to reluctant superhero, to starting over with the man of her dreams, but it’s not all good. Her band of crime-fighting friends known as the Disillusionists are falling apart after she witnessed their leader and good friend, Packard, shoot and kill Shelby’s boyfriend, Avery. However, everyone but Justine knows that she has been revised--her memories were altered by the man she is about to marry, and he is in fact the killer (this all happened at the end of the second book, Double Cross.
Head Rush opens with Justine settling into her life with Midcity Mayor, Otto Sanchez, her ideal man, and the two will be married soon. This is what (she thinks) she's always wanted. Otto is handsome and strong, and most importantly he is stable and safe. Justine still cannot believe that Packard killed Shelby's boyfriend, Avery. She hates Packard, but when he shows up secretly to talk with her, she cannot help the urge to protect him. She begins to notice things just aren't adding up.
For the first half of the book I was on edge! Would Justine find out the truth before it’s too late? Would her friends stop acting so strange? Would Midcity be safe again? Plus I was so frustrated with Justine. I understand that a revision changes the person, but she knew things were off, and she still refused to consider that she was revised. It goes back to Justine sabotaging herself and hiding from the truth. She is a scared little girl inside the tough exterior. She still thinks she wants the easy, safe life. It bothered me that she refused to consider that she’d been revised, but Ms. Crane did do a good job explaining how revisions to a person’s memory does away with the “old self.”
It is Carolyn Crane's ability to create characters I care about and how she got me inside Justine, that makes this series, and Head Rush in particular, so amazing. I've never read a first person narrative where I have felt so connected to the character. I swear, I experienced everything Justine did-every emotion, sensation, fear and pain. Justine got me to care about Otto even when we know he's a bad man. She got me to look at life and be happy with what I've been given. She gave me Happy Gumby!
This book has some highly emotion and very touching scenes. Scenes of this caliber are what makes this book a 5 Star -- A+ book (and one of my all time favorites). Of course, knowing its life and death for Justine can make almost anything more powerful. There are scenes with her true love Packard, a scene when she says goodbye to Otto, interactions with best friend Shelby and even scenes with her dad, whom we'd never met before. Each of these are spectacular moments. Here is one interchange with her dad that had me in tears. It is such a tender moment, and just what Justine needed to hear.
“I haven’t been the model father,” Dad says. “I taught you all the wrong lessons, none of the right ones. But you’ve grown into a beautiful, brave young woman in spite of me--”
Saying a possible goodbye to Shelby was amazing. It is the perfect expression of how it feels to love another and what it means to be friends. But it’s when she’s with Packard for what may be the final time, that was so heart-breaking. Justine wants to love him fully, but is worried she’ll let him down or die. She tries to push him away, but he’s never letting go again. I could see Justine grow in those moments - grow to accept all she is and who she can become. So perfect!
*sigh* This was the perfect end to an amazing series. I am content. Head Rush had everything that made the first two books great plus more. I am still crying... Tears of joy because I have grown to love these characters and tears of sadness because I did not want it to end. The plot was perfect... Twists and turns in just the right places. Love conquering all. Suspense keeping me glued to the pages.
I’m going to end with a quote from Justine that sums it all up:
Happiness isn’t about getting rid of my fear. Happiness is when something outshines my fear.
My Rating:
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Personal favorite - a must read (A+)
In addition, Head Rush is one of...
Purchase Info:
Mind Games (The Disillusionists: Book 1)
Double Cross (The Disillusionists: Book 2)
Head Rush (The Disillusionists: Book 3)
Double Cross (The Disillusionists: Book 2)
Head Rush (The Disillusionists: Book 3)
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Review: Darker After Midnight
Darker After Midnight
Author: Lara Adrian
Release Date: Jan. 24, 2012
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Midnight Breed #10
ISBN: #978-0345530875
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format(s): Hardcover (384 pgs), e-book, audio
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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In the dark of night, a blood war escalates within the hidden world of the Breed. After existing in secret for many long centuries, maintaining a fragile peace with the humans who walk beside them unaware, a single act of retaliation has put the entire vampire nation at risk of discovery. It falls to the Order--a cadre of Breed warriors pledged to protect their own and humankind alike--to stop Dragos, the power-mad vampire at the center of the conflict, before his push for domination can explode into catastrophe.
At the center of the Order’s quest is Sterling Chase, once a morally rigid enforcer of Breed law, now a warrior fallen from grace, whose biggest battle is the one he wages against his own savage nature. With addiction beckoning him toward eternal darkness, Chase’s path to redemption has never seemed more out of reach--until he finds himself drawn to a beautiful young woman who may be something much more than she seems . . .
What I’m talking about:
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Okay, so I’m just going to come out and say it: I LOVED THIS BOOK! I am in awe of the mastery Ms. Adrian has put onto the pages. If you have not read the Midnight Breeds series, go pick up book 1, Kiss of Midnight, NOW and do NOT start here if you want to enjoy the full potential of this book.
Last we saw outcast Breed warrior, Chase Sterling, he was sacrificing himself to save his former friends and comrades. Darker After Midnight picks up immediate after the conclusion of Deeper Than Midnight. Chase has been incarcerated by the human police force, the Order has gone into hiding and Dragos is taking over Boston. It’s a scary time for law-abiding Breeds. Chase is hell-bent on bring Dragos down, which includes killing off some very high-profile human Minions (mind-slaves to Dragos).
Right in the center of Chase’s path of vengeance is the exotic Tavia Fairchild, and soon they both discover she is so much more than anyone understands. Tavia has been lied to her entire life and is inexplicable drawn to Chase. Although she fears him, she stays with Chase because he tells her the truth. Together the two attempt to discover her true origins and bring down Dragos.
So much happens in this story, but it never felt overwhelming or forced. I could write three pages alone of basic plot summary. But the bottom line is that whether you are new to the series or a long time fan, Ms. Adrian does a fantastic job bringing the reader up to speed on both the story arc and the characters without being redundant or intrusive. In the beginning, she writes “slice of life” sections, which give insight into the lives of all of the characters, but also provide an effortless way to catch up on the first nine books (which is especially great for those of us that don’t have the best memories). She also does a superb job of covertly mentioning facts so the can remember who is mated to whom, which warriors have moved on, etc.
I also love how Ms. Adrian paints a scene for her readers. She provides details that help construct almost tangible images. It’s done in a way without being wordy or obtuse.
The pairing of Chase and Tavia is exemplary! They both feel damaged by life and don’t trust others. They find truth and salvation in each other’s arms, but it takes time. I adore that they both make mistakes, and then realize that they want to be better for each other. And their smex scenes... WOW! They are intensely erotic. Like most romances, the pair must give and go through a lot, but this is one of those situations where the couple just comes together for all the right reasons, and it feels perfect.
The book also brings the series fans full circle with a Gabrielle and Lucan subplot. The couple doesn’t dominate the book, but rather compliments the overall story - we started with them in the very first book, and it is fitting to come back to the Order’s leader and his mate. Lucan’s struggle between wanting to have a child and concerns over a violent future are heart-felt and emotionally wrenching. There is a scene between the two - a discussion about having a baby that showcased Lucan’s inner-turmoil and the complete love and devotion each has for the other, and it tore me up inside.
This was most definitely the conclusion of a major story-arc involving Dragos and his Gen One Hunters. But this is NOT the end of this amazing series. Ms. Adrian has already announced that the upcoming story arc will focus on the younger characters, with the next release focusing on the mysterious Mira.
So much happened that leads to the next story. We are given glimpses of the Breeds and Breedmate origins, Jenna is still evolving and Tavia is a miracle that leaves so many possibilities for the future. Without giving spoilers, I will tell you that this book changes the game in a MAJOR way and I am more excited than ever to see what comes next!
I honestly could go on and on. I have so much exuberance for Darker After Midnight because it is the perfect climax to this amazing series. I only hope that I got a fraction of how wonderful this book is within my review.
My Rating:
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Personal favorite - a must read (A+)
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