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2013 reading goal:
15 new-to-me authors.
1) Stacy Gail
2) Heather Massey
3) Sidney Bristol
4) Ann Mayburn
5) Thea Harrison
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Showing posts with label romance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label romance. Show all posts
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Review: A Spy to Die For by Kris DeLake
A Spy to Die For
Author: Kris DeLake
Release Date: July 2, 2013
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Assassins Guild Series #2
ISBN: #978-1402262852
Genre: Sci-fi Romance
Format(s): Paperback (320 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Jack Hunter is a double agent. Skye Jones is a pirate...or is that just a cover? One thing is for sure—neither of them are competent assassins. Thrown together on the Krell space station during an important Assassins Guild meeting, each is determined to get to the truth and prevent catastrophe. But when Jack and Skye are matched against two master killers, they find themselves caught in the crosshairs between their willingness to trust each other and the undeniable attraction coursing through them. Both knows that a long-term relationship is tough in their profession, but the chemistry they've got is too good to deny. Now all they have to do is stay alive.
What Nima’s talking about:
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Kris DeLake is one of multiple pen names for multi-genre author Kristine Kathryn Rusch. Although it is the second book in the Assassins Guild Series, it does stand on its own as a single book read.
I felt the plot of A Spy to Die For was very weak. There is a single plot line which has a few periphery characters coming in and out of it, but we never leave the point of view of its two main characters, Sky and Jack. They are rival spies and they must decide if they should trust each other or not to survive and thwart and assassination plot. I wish I could say there were no spoilers there, but that’s the entire book in a nut shell. I wish there was more to review.
In lieu of the drama that could have been created by subplots, we get more sex. Was the sex good? Sure. Sweaty, playful, not overly graphic. Female-friendly. Overall, it is good—not bad, not great. It makes for a quick poolside read, but it was easy to put down and pick up again as was convenient. I was never compelled to get to the end or had to work at remembering where I was in the story.
Nima’s Rating:
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Liked it, but I had some issues (B)
Purchase Info:
Friday, June 21, 2013
Review: His Clockwork Canary by Beth Ciotta
His Clockwork Canary
Author: Beth Ciotta
Release Date: June 4, 2013
Publisher: Signet
The Glorious Victorious
Darcys #2
Darcys #2
ISBN: #978-0451239990
Genre: Steampunk (Paranormal Romance)
Format(s): Paperback (352 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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History is repeating itself.
For ambitious engineer Simon Darcy, winning Queen Victoria’s competition to recover lost inventions of historical significance is a matter of pride—and redemption. After all, it was Simon’s failed monorail project that left his family destitute, and winning the tournament would surely restore the Darcys’ reputation.
Simon sets his sights high, targeting no less than the infamous time-travel device that forever changed the world by transporting scientists, engineers, and artists from the twentieth century. The Mod technology was banned and supposedly destroyed, but Simon is sure he can re-create it.
His daring plan draws the attention of Willie G., the Clockwork Canary, London’s sensationalist reporter. Simon soon discovers that Willie is a male guise for Wilhemina Goodenough, the love of his youth, who left him jilted and bitter. He questions her motives even as he falls prey to her unique charm. As the attraction between the two reignites, Simon realizes that this vixen from his past has secrets that could be the key to his future…as long as he can put their history behind him.
What Una is talking about:
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I have found that I love steampunk romance – that glorious mix of historical and science fiction all tied up with romance. It’s great escapism. Speaking of great escapism, the second novel in The Glorious Victorious Darcys is out! His Clockwork Canary is an exciting and passionate sequel to Her Sky Cowboy, leaving me salivating for the next book.
This second novel begins where the previous novel began, the death of Reginald Darcy. Unlike the first book that follows the path of Amelia, His Clockwork Canary follows Simon on his pursuit of the Triple R Tourney prize. What continues to be fascinating about this world is the blend of decades it represents. We get more of it in this novel than the previous.
The steampunk elements are related to a time machine that Briscoe Darcy created that sent him (during a world’s fair demonstration) to 1969. When the device returned, it was with the Peace Rebels – people from 1969 looking to stop the wars and devastation of the time by going back and urging the world towards peace. They had hoped to bypass those atrocities in our world’s history that took place after. However…things did not go as planned. Now this Victorian era has modern conveniences, some altered to work in this time period and Freaks. Freaks are those children who are the result of a Mod (a person from 1969) and a Vic (a person from the Victorian era). They are easily distinguishable by their rainbow sparkling eyes and they have a special ability (or more). Due to this, there are Old Worlders – those who wish to retain the Victorian era, and New Worlders – those who wish to embrace the new. In those two groups you also have the Flatlines – those that want to capitalized on the modern world and dominate. Not only does the Victorian era still have its social stratification, but now Freaks and Vics are forbidden to marry.
As the novel unfolds, we discover that Simon is feeling guilt-stricken by the situation the family finds itself in after his father’s death. Simon feels responsible for his family being near destitute and the fact that he was not assisting his father in his experiments. Simon has strived to make his mark on the world bringing pride to his parents and a little glory to himself. It’s tough growing up in the shadow of Briscoe Darcy, his cousin responsible for creating a time machine. Not to mention, Simon feels as if he is a shadow to his twin brother Jules, a war hero. Simon is compelled to win this competition as a means to alleviate his guilt and gain a little pride and glory back for his family and himself.
The notorious Clockwork Canary is Willie G. He is widely known for the titillating tabloid articles and being able to ferret out information. However, Willie hides a few deep secrets, one of which is that he is really a she. Even though this is a time period in flux, it is still restricting to women – meaning Willie would not have this job if she was a woman, and hence her deception. She works to keep her father afloat because ever since her mother was killed, her father has not been mentally stable. To complicate matters, she is estranged from her brother, Westley, who has taken off and cut ties with her and her father. Another secret Willie keeps is her connection to Simon. We discover that someone knows all of Willie’s secrets and uses those secrets to blackmail her into shadowing Simon on his quest. Once he finds something of merit for the Triple R Tourney, she is to contact the blackmailer at once so he can obtain it.
As His Clockwork Canary progresses, there is an undeniable connection between Simon and Willie – but they are both nursing their hurts and guilt from their own issues. However, watching them overcome these different obstacles was heartwarming. Just when you think they are past the point of no return, they come together again. There are a few cliffhanger moments that make this novel a nail bitter to the end. It was difficult to put down.
I will admit I felt that the sibling rivalry was not as noticeable or severe as it was built up to be. There is great love and affection between Jules and Simon, making it difficult to surmise he would feel a sense of lack as compared to his brother. It never seemed to come across that strongly – this deep rooted sibling rivalry. Part of me is pleased by it since I felt it was not necessary to the story. Also, I really liked Simon and just didn’t see the rivalry in his character. One thing I had hoped to be explained was the emotional connection or tie that existed between Simon and his brother because I felt he had that same emotional connection with Willie. I loved it, as it enhanced the rightness of their relationship, but I did wonder how that was possible.
All in all though, I really enjoyed His Clockwork Canary. Being able to see Amelia and Tucker was the icing on the cake. While researching for this review, I discovered a 1.5 novella, His Broken Angel, which I will be picking up. I have my suspicions on who it is focused on (I am so excited) which is why I am eager to get it downloaded to my Kindle. If you are looking for some fun, a bit fluffy, but exciting steampunk – pick up The Glorious Victorious Darcys. However, I really recommend you start with Her Sky Cowboy, it’s just as fabulous.
Una’s Rating:
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Enjoyed – Strongly Recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Reviews in the Series:
Labels:
4 stars,
Beth Ciotta,
romance,
Signet,
steampunk,
The Glorious Victorious Darcys,
Una Review
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Monday, June 3, 2013
Review: Fire & Frost Anthology
Fire & Frost
Authors: Meljean Brook, Carolyn Crane & Jessica Sims
Release Date: May 25, 2013
Publisher: self-published
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Steampunk Romance, Anthology
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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Speed Mating by Jessica Sims – Estrella may be going into heat, but she’s determined to remain in control. Just because she’s ovulating doesn’t mean she has to settle for just any man (or his beast). Her sexy alpha’s determined to find her a tiger to take care of her heat and father her child…but no one seems to look quite as good as the man in charge. Will giving in to her need for her alpha ruin her tenuous relationship with her clan or be a match made in heaven?
Conjuring Max by Carolyn Crane – The witches of the world ridiculed and rejected nerdy Veronica for trying to use newfangled computers to enhance old world spellcasting. Well, it’s 1984 now, and she’s perfected her spellcasting computer program. Hey, who needs friends when you can conjure virtually anything…or anybody? So when Veronica makes powerful new enemies, she conjures Max, a pitbull of a cop, to deal with the pesky hitmen who keep coming around. Maybe Veronica can finally get some peace and quiet so she can work on her computer. But tough-guy Max is in no mood to play lapdog to a gorgeous witch.
Wrecked by Meljean Brook – Elizabeth has spent the past five years running from her father; her father’s huntsman, Caius, has spent the past five years pursuing her. But when he finally catches up to her on an airship flying above Europe’s zombie-infested cities, Elizabeth discovers that Caius isn’t the only danger she has to fear—and now that he’s found her, Caius doesn’t intend to let her go…
What I’m talking about:
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Speed Mating by Jessica Sims
Midnight Liaisons series
Estrella is an anomaly in her pack--she is a liger: half tiger, half lion. While she doesn't really fit in with her tiger pack, she is not accepted at all by the lion pack. Estrella had always been told she was sterile, and she believed that right up until she realized that she was going into heat. Now with only a week's notice, she needs to find someone she likes to service her needs and be the father of her child.
The one man she truly desires is her alpha, Vic. But since she thinks he could never be interested, she goes through the motions of dating and looking for a mate.
Speed Mating is a fun and sexy little story. There is a bit of humor and light-heartedness throughout the novella. I liked that the story stayed in Estrella's POV for the duration of the tale because it elevated the tension without knowing Vic’s true feelings. The pair are a joy to watch as they come together.
Bottom line: Cute, sexy shifter story. Lots of fun.
4 stars.
Conjuring Max by Carolyn Crane
Code of Shadows 0.5
Readers of Ms. Crane’s first release in this series, Mr. Real, will recognize Vicky as Alix’s Great Aunt who left Alix all of her worldly possessions - including a computer program that brings to life objects from photos. One need not have read Mr. Real to enjoy this novella.
Vicky is in danger and in hiding from crime syndicate boss, Salvo. She’s used her knowledge of witchcraft and computer programing to bring to life Max, former Chicago police officer recently killed in the line of duty, to be her bodyguard.
The story opens about three months after Vicky first conjured Max. I liked that Max knows he's been conjured from a photo (and the “real” Max is dead). Max is more human that most as he contemplates life, the existence of a soul, falls in love with Vicky, and learns to let go of the daughter he orphaned after his murder.
The opening of the novella is very exciting. We have no idea why Salvo is after Vicky, only that he is relentless in his pursuit. The action is suspensefully written, keeping this reader glued to the pages. In addition, the book has a heart and tackles powerful emotions. The concepts of life, death and love are wonderfully interwoven into the thrilling tale.
The story switches POV between Vicky and Max. We learn of their mutual yet secret desire and admiration for the other. I loved how Vicky pushes Max and how Max teaches Vicky to learn to let go. As the story progresses you learn how perfectly matched the pair is. It's lovely to see the give and take between the individuals.
Bottom line: Exciting action with heart. As a fan of Mr. Real, I enjoyed “history lesson” about how the computer codes came to be.
4 stars
Wrecked by Meljean Brook
Iron Seas series
Five years ago, Elizabeth Jannsen ran from her powerful father, who subsequently sent highly-trained hunters to collect her and bring her home. Caius Trachter was the only one to ever capture her, but she was able to make a dangerous escape. (2 years prior to the start of this story.)
Now Elizabeth's father has caught up to her, and she must make a quick exit. Little does she know that Caius is watching, nor does she know that he has loved her since the day he met her.
I must share with you that I am completely in awe of Ms. Brook’s storytelling and of the tales she spins. She is simply a master at her craft. Wrecked is no exception, further cementing the Iron Seas series as one of the Top 5 series among the current romance genre.
Elizabeth has every reason to run from her father, and when you find out why, I imagine your jaw will drop just like mine. Knowing that she has little chance to escape Caius, Elizabeth makes the decision to trust the man that once tried to turn her in. The pain and heartache, loneliness and internal torment of both Elizabeth and Caius is portrayed with an absolute care for detail. Elizabeth loves her father, but he is a madman and she cannot see a way out of her situation without someone's death. She wants to trust and believe Caius, but she isn't certain how. This creates emotional conflict and amazing tension. The emotional depth of the novella is on par with a story two to three times its length.
In addition, the details of the ship, voyage and world are wonderfully woven into the tale. The action--hunt and chase--are thrilling and suspenseful.
The story reaches beyond the two primary characters without stretching thin the plot of and time allotted to the primary tale. For example, I adore Captain Harker who is the captain of the ship on which Elizabeth attempts her escape. He is a supporting character with a ton of integrity. His actions give Elizabeth the ability to trust another human. It is endearing how he cares for her in his own polite way.
The ending of the story was “perfect” for the situation and again brought forward an array of emotions, but this time a bit different from the earlier scenes. It was a touching, albeit simple, way to wrap up the tale... perfect.
I absolutely loved this novella. *sigh* I cannot say enough about how great the Iron Seas series is. This novella is a stand alone and can be enjoyed by all. It is a sweet romance, suspenseful action, exquisite steampunk world and all around wonderful story.
Bottom line: Amazing adventure full of rich detail and complex storytelling that will blow you away.
5 stars
Overall, Fire & Frost offers three wonderful tales, each very different, but all exciting, romantic and fun!
My Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Reviews in the Series:
Midnight Liaisons
Code of Shadows:
Iron Seas:
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Review: Rising Darkness by Thea Harrison
Rising Darkness
Author: Thea Harrison
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Publisher: Berkley
Game of Shadows #1
ISBN: #978-0425248454
Genre: Urban Fantasy, Romance
Format(s): Paperback (304 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher/ NetGalley
About the book:
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In the hospital ER where she works, Mary is used to chaos. But lately, every aspect of her life seems adrift. She’s feeling disconnected from herself. Voices appear in her head. And the vivid, disturbing dreams she’s had all her life are becoming more intense. Then she meets Michael. He’s handsome, enigmatic and knows more than he can say. In his company, she slowly remembers the truth about herself…
Thousands of years ago, there were eight of them. The one called the Deceiver came to destroy the world, and the other seven followed to stop him. Reincarnated over and over, they carry on—and Mary finds herself drawn into the battle once again. And the more she learns, the more she realizes that Michael will go to any lengths to destroy the Deceiver.
Then she remembers who killed her during her last life, nine hundred years ago…Michael.
What I’m talking about:
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The story opens with a dream of a life from the very distant past, in a “galaxy far, far away,” although our heroine, Mary, doesn’t realize this until later in the story. She dreams of a criminal escaping and of comrades dying in one life to be reborn in another in order to find him and bring justice. To try and shake the dream and the stress of her life as an ER doctor in a nearby hospital, she goes for a run. When she thinks she sees and hears the wind talking, Mary becomes even more confused and a little concerned, starting to question her sanity. However, when her ex-husband (but still good friend) tries to get her to the doctor, she runs from the appointment and his help.
Rising Darkness unfolds slowly, giving the reader different point-of-views and sides to the same story. We learn about our hero, Michael and meet “Grandmother,” along with a few humans who know some of the secrets hidden among the naive population of Earth. I was a bit confused for a while, trying to piece together all of the sections and understand what had happened in the past and what it meant for this book. Although the story is revealed gradually, it is mostly necessary to convey the rather involved backstory and history of Michael, Mary and their companions. As the story progresses and the reader becomes more familiar with the nuances of the tale, the pace picks up a bit.
Mary is one of the original aliens/beings that transcended time and space to chase after the evil being who escaped to Earth; however, she has no clue who she is. After meeting a friendly psychic, experiencing an unexplainable encounter with the Virgin Mary and surviving a frightening confrontation with some deadly men, Mary beings to think that there is something more going on. I adore how the author has Mary compare her situation to that of Sarah Connor in the movie The Terminator as she begins to process what is happening to her. It was very relevant because it’s something we all do in our every day lives - relate our situation to something we’ve seen in a TV show or hear in a song. It was a well written sequence in the book.
Whereas Mary was always a little frantic, for over half of the book, Michael appeared emotionless and stoic. It was enjoyable to get some answers via Michael’s POV about halfway through the book when we finally became privy to his inner feelings about finding his long-lost mate. It was sorely needed because 1) Mary doesn't recognize him and 2) his actions seem so cold and calculated.
Overall the mythology behind the Game of Shadows series is interesting and unique. However, this first story dragged on for most of the book. While there was need to relate an intricate backstory to the reader, at times it was too confusing and/or not able to hold my interest. Mary and Michael had little emotional connection for the majority of the book; although they did manage to create a small spark closer to the end of the story. In addition, I was not satisfied with the conclusion of Rising Darkness. It’s not a cliffhanger per se, but it sort of just ended at a “break in the action,” and the journey is far from over. I just never could fully care about the characters, even though I liked the premise.
My Rating:
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Finished it - take it or leave it (C)
Friday, April 12, 2013
Review: Assassin's Gambit by Amy Raby
Assassin’s Gambit
Author: Amy Raby
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Publisher: Signet
Hearts and Thrones #1
ISBN: #978-0451417824
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Format(s): Paperback (400 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher/ NetGalley
About the book:
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Vitala Salonius, champion of the warlike game of Caturanga, is as deadly as she is beautiful. She’s a trained assassin for the resistance, and her true play is for ultimate power. Using her charm and wit, she plans to seduce her way into the emperor’s bed and deal him one final, fatal blow, sparking a battle of succession that could change the face of the empire.
As the ruler of a country on the brink of war and the son of a deposed emperor, Lucien must constantly be wary of an attempt on his life. But he’s drawn to the stunning Caturanga player visiting the palace. Vitala may be able to distract him from his woes for a while—and fulfill other needs, as well.
Lucien’s quick mind and considerable skills awaken unexpected desires in Vitala, weakening her resolve to finish her mission. An assassin cannot fall for her prey, but Vitala’s gut is telling her to protect this sexy, sensitive man. Now she must decide where her heart and loyalties lie and navigate the dangerous war of politics before her gambit causes her to lose both Lucien and her heart for good.
What B is talking about:
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Trained to be an assassin from the moment she was sold as a child to the Obsidian Circle by her Riorcan parents, Vitala Salonius is as cold and deadly as the weapons she yields underneath her skin. Armed with her beauty, magic, strength, and intelligence, she’ll do anything to lead her people to freedom from the empire that subjugates them, even if she has to sacrifice herself to do so. But, when a hostile faction within the Kjallan empire itself attempts to murder her target and seize power for itself, her straightforward mission is thrown into chaos, leaving Vitala with no choice but to act on her own in order to succeed. As she embarks on the unlikeliest of alliances, the game changes, and she risks losing something she’d never been allowed acknowledge until now: her heart.
Lucien Nigellus, the youngest, and only surviving, son of an unpopular emperor, is well aware of the sacrifices he’ll have to make in order to hold on to his precarious claim to the throne. More prone to utilize strategy than brute force in his bid to establish stability in the region, he seeks to learn from the reigning champion in his favorite board game, Caturanga, in order to hone his skills, both at play, as well as in politics. As betrayal strikes from within his own inner circle, and war threatens to spread across his lands, Lucien realizes that the one person he can rely on is the last person he should ever trust, and wanting her for his own could cost him everything.
Assassin’s Gambit is largely a tale of strategy. As is true with Caturanga, the game so heavily referenced throughout the novel, the characters themselves act as pieces on a game board, no move being made by either side without thorough consideration of its effectiveness towards the end goal. Every word Vitala speaks, and every action she takes initially has one purpose: to win freedom for her people. But, Vitala, who is a strong and clever woman, knows that she is an expendable commodity in the game, a possibility she’s embraced fully until now. Lucien’s misjudgment of his own situation likewise makes him a pawn in the machinations of others, neither of them being able to exert any real control over their situation until they begin to break the rules they’ve been trying to play by.
While the strategic aspects of Assassin’s Gambit were intriguing, I found a connection to the main characters difficult to establish. Vitala is certainly a strong woman, and worthy of the chance to aid her people however she can, but the aloofness with which she plays her part in the scheme was difficult to empathize with. Lucien is likewise difficult to become attached to, not truly beginning to shine until his priorities began to shift to accommodate his growing attachment to, and dependence on, Vitala.
One of the things I did especially like about the story was that Vitala is the real hero of Assassin’s Gambit, and her ability to outplay Lucien in nearly every respect was very entertaining. Whether they’re playing Caturanga in the palace or mobilizing troops in the field, she repeatedly outmatches him, a fact that proves especially irritating to Lucien when it’s to his benefit. Because of an injury that cost him one of his legs long before this story takes place, Lucien is almost entirely dependent on Vitala during their escape from their enemies, shifting her from the role of assassin to that of defender and provider.
Although I had a few issues with parts of Assassin’s Gambit, I think opens the door for a lot of possibilities for the series as a whole. Having a female lead strong enough to literally carry the role of the hero for an entire novel of this length is both unique and impressive, and I’m curious to know whether we’ll learn more about Vitala and Lucien in future novels in the series. Though it took me a while to warm up to both characters, by the end of the story I was in their corner, and I would definitely welcome the chance to see what Ms. Raby has in store for us next.
B’s Rating:
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Liked it, but I had some issues - recommend (B)
Purchase Info:
Labels:
3 stars,
Amy Raby,
Bs-review,
Hearts and Thrones,
romance,
sci-fi/fantasy,
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Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Review: Tethered by Meljean Brook
Tethered
Author: Meljean Brook
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Publisher: Penguin ebook
Iron Seas #2.5
Genre: Steampunk Romance, Novella
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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Surviving on the treacherous Iron Seas requires a heart of steel…but how can Yasmeen hope to survive when her heart has already been stolen by Archimedes Fox…?
Tethered along the south dock of Port Fallow, Captain Yasmeen Corsair’s magnificent new airship, Lady Nergüi, awaits its departure with adventurer and treasure-hunter Archimedes Fox. But this time, Yasmeen, a fearless mercenary who has always prided herself on a heart of steel, has reasons to worry when Miles Bilson, an acquaintance from Archimedes’ earlier smuggling days, sends an urgent message requesting help.
With a past marked by betrayal, Archimedes wonders what his former partner could want—other than revenge. Yasmeen fears that Bilson could threaten everything Archimedes holds dear. Though both Archimedes and Yasmeen love the exhilaration of veering wildly off course, neither is prepared for where there newest risk will take them…or what it might cost them.
What I’m talking about:
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Tethered is a wonderful novella set in Meljean Brook’s Iron Seas series set sometime after the second book, Heart of Steel. Although this story can be read stand alone, it does build upon the events in the second book, and therefore, contains some spoilers from Heart of Steel. Also, I feel those that have read the series will have more emotional investment in the characters.
The story opens with hilarious letters sent between our hero, Archimedes Fox and his sister, Zenobia. Their correspondences set the mood for the story, and although there are extremely serious moments during the book, the letters serve as a reminder that the characters know how to laugh at themselves and enjoy life.
An old associate of Archimedes shows up on board the Lady Nergüi, and soon Fox and Yasmeen find themselves on a rescue mission for which they did not willingly volunteer. But no matter the circumstances, Archimedes and Yasmeen seem to always be on step ahead of the nefarious Miles Bilson.
I adore how much Archimedes loves Yasmeen. Knowing she is carries much sorrow from the loss of her previous airship and its crew, he finds a way to help her deal with the painful memories without compromising the woman she is. The fact that he danced for her, joked and played, then finally loved her so that good memories would replace the bad is so wonderful.
Throughout the entire story, the interaction and play of emotions between Archimedes and Yasmeen is amazing. Ms. Brook has a gift for putting heart and soul into words, allowing an array of emotion and sentiment to leap off the pages. The pair are playful with their words and actions. They accept the other for who they are and accommodate differences out of love. Whether through quiet introspection and subsequent actions or passionate outbursts, the pair can communicate at a level that would make real life couples envious. I adore how much they love one another.
Although there are a few known players in this book, Ms. Brook creates a handful of colorful characters unique to Tethered. She gives each character enough background and page time to provide this novella with the richness of a full-length story. And our villain, Bilson, is desperate and cruel with the shine of a new penny. I wanted to strangle him more than once.
In conclusion, Tethered is an excellent story and perfect sample of Ms. Brook’s storytelling talent in the steampunk romance genre. The depth and range of the plot, characters, and actions are on par with that of a full-length novel. The plot twists are exciting; they never feel contrived, and the story flowed well. The action and adventure kept me on the edge of my seat, but it’s the characters and their stories that give this story and series real heart.
My Rating:
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Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Reviews in the Series:
Labels:
4.5 stars,
Iron Seas,
Meljean Brook,
novella,
Penguin Publishing,
romance,
steampunk,
Twimom Review
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Monday, March 18, 2013
Review: Her Knight's Quest by Alexis Morgan
Her Knight’s Quest
Author: Alexis Morgan
Release Date: March 5, 2013
Publisher: Signet
Warriors of the Mist #2
ISBN: #978-0451239594
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Format(s): Paperback (336 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher/ NetGalley
About the book:
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For centuries, five legendary warriors have braved battles shoulder to shoulder. But now they must divide and conquer as lone champions against evil.
Duncan, a scholar at heart, is drawn to an isolated abbey rumored to hold the answers to countering the terror unleashed by Duke Keirthan. Inside the cloistered walls lies the hidden collection of forbidden lore on dark magic. But the real key to the salvation Duncan seeks—both for the people of Agathia and his soul—is the abbess herself, Lady Lavinia. Hunted by the duke, who seeks to harvest her powers, Lavinia knows Duncan wants to help her. But can she trust the tortured warrior with her secrets?
In the end, it is only by joining forces that they can save not only those they are sworn to protect but each other.
What I’m talking about:
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Duncan is one of the five fabled Warriors of the Mist who sleep within the River of the Damned. When a darkest began to descend over her estate, Lady Merewen called forth these ancient warriors to help rid the land of evil. At the end of the first book, My Lady Mage, Duncan set out in search of answers to help destroy their enemy. At the beginning of Her Knight’s Quest, Duncan is en route to an abbey which is rumored to hold ancient, magical texts. He is playing the part of a scholar looking for work as a scribe.
Lavinia is the head of the abbey and sworn to protect the secrets within its walls. She is all to aware of the evil at hand and the man at the root of the dark magic, Duke Keirthan. Lavinia is able to perform magic of her own, including scrying for visions of what the future may hold. So when the magic waters share more than one image of Duncan, Lavinia realizes he will be someone significant in her life.
Her Knight’s Quest is the delightful sophomore story in the Warriors of the Mist series. After providing basic framework for the world and mythology in her first book, Ms. Morgan takes the time to further explore several of the characters, including backgrounds and talents. There is a much deeper explanation of what is occurring to the land and its citizens, plus there are several scenes from the POV of the Duke - providing excellent insight into his desires and motivations. I was drawn in by the additional details and supplemental mythology regarding the magic at hand. Despite the fact there is a lot of new information provided, the plot progressed forward with an exciting intensity.
Although I would classify this series as fantasy, romance is a crucial part of its core and story lines. In Her Knight’s Quest, we witness the pairing of Lavinia and Duncan. However, there is also follow up with Merewen and Gideon, the primary couple from the first book. In addition, we witness the beginnings of a relationship between Murdoch and Alina, who we also met in the first book.
Lavinia and Duncan feel sparks of attraction right from the start, however both are duty bound and feel there is no time or place for any type of relationship. Their first kiss is sexy, yet hesitant, knowing that their responsibilities come first. Both Lavinia and Duncan appear simultaneously mature and innocent, able to focus on task yet full of wonder from the brush of romance. The juxtaposition of these seemingly conflicting needs creates a smoldering desire brewing beneath the surface.
As the pair grow closer, they individually struggle with the conflict between duty and heart. One of my favorite scenes involves such conflict. The pair disagree on the direction the other should take - and whether to leave the abbey. Yet when it comes down to it, Duncan pushes to claim and love Lavinia, even if they may never see each other again. Both put their heart out there, knowing love may be lost. The scene was emotionally intense and passionate.
The conflict between duty and love is echoed in the other romantic relationships within the story. Although Merewen and Gideon made peace with the fact that once the battle is over, he will have to return to the river and leave, the pair shared tender moments in Her Knight’s Quest as the realize the truth of the situation. This sentiment is echoed in a touching scene between Murdoch and Alina. I adore Alina’s courage in sharing her feelings with Murdoch, and for Murdoch to graciously accept her offer rather than push her away “for her own good.”
By the end of Her Knight’s Quest, I was thoroughly hooked on Ms. Morgan’s series. The fantasy elements and overall mythology are engrossing and exciting. The added components brought forward in this book helped to enrich the overall story arc. In addition, the character development was stronger in this book, and I have come to care for the Dammed Warriors and their companions. I admire that both persons in each of the pairings is willing to give one-hundred percent of themselves and their love, even knowing that heartache is ahead. I look forward to finding out how the Warriors of the Mist fair against the darkness of Duke Keirthan.
My Rating:
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Liked it - recommend (B+)
Reviews in the Series:
Labels:
3.5 stars,
Alexis Morgan,
romance,
sci-fi/fantasy,
Signet,
Twimom Review,
Warriors of the Mist
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