The Ex-Debutante by Linda Francis Lee
What was this book about?
Rich girl and ex-debutante Carlisle thought she had left that life behind – she is now a powerful lawyer in Boston – and no one knows of her history in her Texas town. She is called back because her mother is ready to go through yet another of her divorces and needs Carlisle to organize her life. Carlisle finds out that she isn’t only needed for the divorce but also her families legacy the Hundredth Annual Ball is about to go down in a ball of flames. She must put her current life on hold for this new adventure. While on this escapade, she meets back up with old flame and wild-boy Jack Blair.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I liked the whole family interaction and the realization that a family isn’t perfect but that doesn’t mean that they can’t function as a great family unit. Things aren’t always what they may seem to you. People hide their feelings and so much else.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I would have liked to see more interaction with Jack. While we got to see him more would have been nice.
What genre would you consider this?
Fiction/Romance (not really a total romance novel in the classic sense but there are parts of the genre in the book)
Overall: A-, I enjoyed this read a lot!
If I was to nominate this book for an award it would be: Best Rich Texan Book
Monday, March 31, 2008
The Accidental Vampire
The Accidental Vampire by Lynsay Sands (Argeneau Vampire Series)
What was this book about?
Elvie Black doesn’t know what exactly happened when she was on a vacation, she only knows that she woke up a vampire. The only things that she has to tell her how a vampire acts are old movies and books. Her friends are worried about her, as they are getting older she is staying young, they do not want to leave her alone. Unbeknownst to Evie they put an add in a paper to find her a suitable mate. Meanwhile family leader Victor Argeneau is sent to find out what is going on with this vampire who seems to be leading a public life. This is totally against the vampire code.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I enjoyed the fact that she lived in a small town and had such a close relationship with so may people that they would accept her no matter what.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
For some reason the fact that Elvie was in her mid-60’s, but looked like a 20-something year old and should act like it was a little hard to overcome at first. If she had been 200 it would have been less a problem. I would have had the same problem with a man of that age.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall: B
Spoilers:
The mystery itself of who wanted to get Elvie seemed a little strange. The fact that she forgave them so easily was just odd, not to mention them going out of control when they have had years to think badly of her.
What was this book about?
Elvie Black doesn’t know what exactly happened when she was on a vacation, she only knows that she woke up a vampire. The only things that she has to tell her how a vampire acts are old movies and books. Her friends are worried about her, as they are getting older she is staying young, they do not want to leave her alone. Unbeknownst to Evie they put an add in a paper to find her a suitable mate. Meanwhile family leader Victor Argeneau is sent to find out what is going on with this vampire who seems to be leading a public life. This is totally against the vampire code.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I enjoyed the fact that she lived in a small town and had such a close relationship with so may people that they would accept her no matter what.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
For some reason the fact that Elvie was in her mid-60’s, but looked like a 20-something year old and should act like it was a little hard to overcome at first. If she had been 200 it would have been less a problem. I would have had the same problem with a man of that age.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall: B
Spoilers:
The mystery itself of who wanted to get Elvie seemed a little strange. The fact that she forgave them so easily was just odd, not to mention them going out of control when they have had years to think badly of her.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Change of Heart
Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult
What was this book about?
June Nealon has had plenty of tragedy in her life, and all she has left is her daughter Claire who is waiting for a new heart. It doesn’t look like it will get there in time. Meanwhile, Shay Bourne is on death row and wants to give his heart to Claire as some sort of redemption. Can June deal with her daughter getting a killers heart? Will the legal system recognize this as a religious belief that must be upheld? Father Michael, tries his best to aid in this quest of Shay’s and it questions all his beliefs.
What was your favorite part about this book?
As with many Jodi Picoult books the end is the best part. It closes everything up in some sort of way that keeps you guessing, but has also thrown you for a loop. What you think isn’t always the truth.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
This book is really a quest of religion. Trying to find out what is the truth in religion is something that has going on since the beginning of time. While it is interesting it wasn’t all that enlightening for me. I had heard most of it before.
What genre would you consider this?
Fiction
Overall: C, it was a tolerable book but it wasn’t something that I wanted to run out and tell everyone about.
Possible Spoilers: In the past I have enjoyed Jodi Picoult’s books immensely – to the point of buying one of them “My Sister’s Keeper” for practically everyone I knew that liked to read. I think the first Jodi Picoult book is the best book that you will read of hers mainly because of the format of the books. They follow a story that makes you think one thing and then at the end turns everything around to make you realize all you thought was true is not. Once you start reading her books, you most likely will still enjoy them – but it is less of a shock for you when things go haywire. In fact, you almost expect it. I have to say there were parts of this book that from the first page I knew were going to be true, and I was right.
If I was to nominate this book for an award it would be: Best Personal Analyzation of Religion by a Character
What was this book about?
June Nealon has had plenty of tragedy in her life, and all she has left is her daughter Claire who is waiting for a new heart. It doesn’t look like it will get there in time. Meanwhile, Shay Bourne is on death row and wants to give his heart to Claire as some sort of redemption. Can June deal with her daughter getting a killers heart? Will the legal system recognize this as a religious belief that must be upheld? Father Michael, tries his best to aid in this quest of Shay’s and it questions all his beliefs.
What was your favorite part about this book?
As with many Jodi Picoult books the end is the best part. It closes everything up in some sort of way that keeps you guessing, but has also thrown you for a loop. What you think isn’t always the truth.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
This book is really a quest of religion. Trying to find out what is the truth in religion is something that has going on since the beginning of time. While it is interesting it wasn’t all that enlightening for me. I had heard most of it before.
What genre would you consider this?
Fiction
Overall: C, it was a tolerable book but it wasn’t something that I wanted to run out and tell everyone about.
Possible Spoilers: In the past I have enjoyed Jodi Picoult’s books immensely – to the point of buying one of them “My Sister’s Keeper” for practically everyone I knew that liked to read. I think the first Jodi Picoult book is the best book that you will read of hers mainly because of the format of the books. They follow a story that makes you think one thing and then at the end turns everything around to make you realize all you thought was true is not. Once you start reading her books, you most likely will still enjoy them – but it is less of a shock for you when things go haywire. In fact, you almost expect it. I have to say there were parts of this book that from the first page I knew were going to be true, and I was right.
If I was to nominate this book for an award it would be: Best Personal Analyzation of Religion by a Character
Friday, March 28, 2008
Heart of Fire
Heart of Fire by Kat Martin
What was this book about?
Coralee Whitmore’s sister was found dead in the river from apparent suicide. During her sojourn in the country she had found a lover and bore him a child out of wedlock. Her whole family was unaware. The law says not only was her death a suicide but she took her infant with her. Coralee knows that cannot be true and must figure out what really happened. She believes that on her neighboring country estate her sisters lover and killer must reside. She travels there under deception pretending to be their cousin’s wife in order to stay and investigate. The problem is that her main suspect is intriguing to her in many ways and she can’t seem to stay away from him.
What was your favorite part about this book?
It was an interesting mystery of who was the bad guy(s), why they did what they did and all that.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
She majorly deceived the earl. Having sex with someone and not having told him your real name is just disturbing especially in a classic romance novel. I know that it made the whole thing a little more dramatic and set the scene for several things but not a plot point that I personally really like in a novel.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall: B-
What was this book about?
Coralee Whitmore’s sister was found dead in the river from apparent suicide. During her sojourn in the country she had found a lover and bore him a child out of wedlock. Her whole family was unaware. The law says not only was her death a suicide but she took her infant with her. Coralee knows that cannot be true and must figure out what really happened. She believes that on her neighboring country estate her sisters lover and killer must reside. She travels there under deception pretending to be their cousin’s wife in order to stay and investigate. The problem is that her main suspect is intriguing to her in many ways and she can’t seem to stay away from him.
What was your favorite part about this book?
It was an interesting mystery of who was the bad guy(s), why they did what they did and all that.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
She majorly deceived the earl. Having sex with someone and not having told him your real name is just disturbing especially in a classic romance novel. I know that it made the whole thing a little more dramatic and set the scene for several things but not a plot point that I personally really like in a novel.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall: B-
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Tempted in the Night
Tempted in the Night by Robin T. Popp (Night Slayer book 3)
What was this book about?
Jessica Winslow has known about vampires and been fighting them her whole life, ever since one killed her mother. She comes to town to see her “Uncle” Charles and give him a very special weapon, instead she becomes the fixation of a vampire. This vampire wants her bad and is on his way to becoming crazy. John Boehler, a police detective comes across the scene and can’t help but assist a damsel in distress. He has figured out that vampires a real during his travails with Dirk and Mac (Book 1 & 2). He feels he must save Jessica.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I like the interaction of characters. I also very much enjoy Harris (a vampire who started out as being bad (or so you thought) and has turned into a genuinely good person) being a part of this set of books. It makes you like him more and more as time progresses. I hope he gets his own book as well.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Jessica just doesn’t get how vampires work it seems despite being around them almost her entire life – she even lived with Erik growing up.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall: B-, it was enjoyable but it took me a little while to really want to pick this one up.
What was this book about?
Jessica Winslow has known about vampires and been fighting them her whole life, ever since one killed her mother. She comes to town to see her “Uncle” Charles and give him a very special weapon, instead she becomes the fixation of a vampire. This vampire wants her bad and is on his way to becoming crazy. John Boehler, a police detective comes across the scene and can’t help but assist a damsel in distress. He has figured out that vampires a real during his travails with Dirk and Mac (Book 1 & 2). He feels he must save Jessica.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I like the interaction of characters. I also very much enjoy Harris (a vampire who started out as being bad (or so you thought) and has turned into a genuinely good person) being a part of this set of books. It makes you like him more and more as time progresses. I hope he gets his own book as well.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Jessica just doesn’t get how vampires work it seems despite being around them almost her entire life – she even lived with Erik growing up.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall: B-, it was enjoyable but it took me a little while to really want to pick this one up.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Daughter of York
Daughter of York by Anne Easter Smith
What was this book about?
Edward has overtaken his cousin and become king of England. His sister Margaret has now become a pawn in the political marriage game. You follow Margaret and her ladies-in-waiting throughout many years. Including her waiting for marriage, her marriage, the deaths of friends, others overtaking her country.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I enjoyed the look at Richard the most. Richard is a likable character in this novel where as in many others he isn’t that likable. He would be the uncle who locked his nephews in the Tower of London where they disappeared (and many think he killed them). This is in no way covered in this book – but interesting to see a different perspective on him – from his loving sister.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
At the end the author speaks about the “truth” in this book. I found it disappointing that most of the book and characters were false. I realize you can’t know everything about every person in history, but the thing I like most about historical fiction is that you can imagine what really happened in that point in time as opposed to just making up random things.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Fiction
Overall: C+, interesting and a not-so-dry read.
Spoilers: I was really disappointed to find out that both her confidant and lover were not real at all and that any connection was just reaching.
What was this book about?
Edward has overtaken his cousin and become king of England. His sister Margaret has now become a pawn in the political marriage game. You follow Margaret and her ladies-in-waiting throughout many years. Including her waiting for marriage, her marriage, the deaths of friends, others overtaking her country.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I enjoyed the look at Richard the most. Richard is a likable character in this novel where as in many others he isn’t that likable. He would be the uncle who locked his nephews in the Tower of London where they disappeared (and many think he killed them). This is in no way covered in this book – but interesting to see a different perspective on him – from his loving sister.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
At the end the author speaks about the “truth” in this book. I found it disappointing that most of the book and characters were false. I realize you can’t know everything about every person in history, but the thing I like most about historical fiction is that you can imagine what really happened in that point in time as opposed to just making up random things.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Fiction
Overall: C+, interesting and a not-so-dry read.
Spoilers: I was really disappointed to find out that both her confidant and lover were not real at all and that any connection was just reaching.
Deep Dish
Deep Dish by Mary Kay Andrews
What was this book about?
Chef Gina Foxton has a local television show that seems to have a large following. That is until her current boyfriend and producer ends up sleeping with her sponsor’s wife and her show is canceled. She must find something else to go to. She finds out that she is up for a Cooking Channel spot and is competing with other local celebrity Tate Moody. Tate is also a cook with a twist – on his show he hunts, fishes and cooks.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I liked the dynamic of the two of them. They seemed like genuine nice people. And Tate was a sweetheart.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
They didn’t know each other long before he “fell” for her. It seemed a little rushed one minute he hates her the next he loves her.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall: B, I enjoyed the book overall.
What was this book about?
Chef Gina Foxton has a local television show that seems to have a large following. That is until her current boyfriend and producer ends up sleeping with her sponsor’s wife and her show is canceled. She must find something else to go to. She finds out that she is up for a Cooking Channel spot and is competing with other local celebrity Tate Moody. Tate is also a cook with a twist – on his show he hunts, fishes and cooks.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I liked the dynamic of the two of them. They seemed like genuine nice people. And Tate was a sweetheart.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
They didn’t know each other long before he “fell” for her. It seemed a little rushed one minute he hates her the next he loves her.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall: B, I enjoyed the book overall.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Atonement
Atonement by Ian McEwan
What was this book about?
A rich family comes together to celebrate a homecoming, and what follows it is tragedy. The only witness is 13 year old Briony Tallis who just has no understanding of the complexity of what she is about to do. Her misunderstanding and childish way of dealing with things causes heartbreak and general discord amongst her family that will reverberate for years.
You follow the family and other “actors” in this story to various locations and throughout their lives. From World War II, to nursing facilities, to (almost) present day, you see how one act can change everything.
What was your favorite part about this book?
The romance between Cecelia and Robbie is probably the thing I liked the most. They just seemed real as described in this book. No people were perfect, more like someone you could meet on the street.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I found the detailed war scenes just not that exciting. Obviously they play on the story in how that relates to his feelings for Cecelia. But to me it was a separate section that I really didn’t care for.
What genre would you consider this?
Fiction
Overall: C, I actually am more excited about the movie then the book at this point. I am sure for some people this would enjoy it more but for me it was so-so.
Possible Spoilers: I wish I knew more about where they were now. The lifelong repercussions were discussed but never actually shown.
If I was to nominate this book for an award it would be: Most Depressing Love Story
What was this book about?
A rich family comes together to celebrate a homecoming, and what follows it is tragedy. The only witness is 13 year old Briony Tallis who just has no understanding of the complexity of what she is about to do. Her misunderstanding and childish way of dealing with things causes heartbreak and general discord amongst her family that will reverberate for years.
You follow the family and other “actors” in this story to various locations and throughout their lives. From World War II, to nursing facilities, to (almost) present day, you see how one act can change everything.
What was your favorite part about this book?
The romance between Cecelia and Robbie is probably the thing I liked the most. They just seemed real as described in this book. No people were perfect, more like someone you could meet on the street.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I found the detailed war scenes just not that exciting. Obviously they play on the story in how that relates to his feelings for Cecelia. But to me it was a separate section that I really didn’t care for.
What genre would you consider this?
Fiction
Overall: C, I actually am more excited about the movie then the book at this point. I am sure for some people this would enjoy it more but for me it was so-so.
Possible Spoilers: I wish I knew more about where they were now. The lifelong repercussions were discussed but never actually shown.
If I was to nominate this book for an award it would be: Most Depressing Love Story
Monday, March 24, 2008
Out of the Night
Out of the Night by Robin T. Popp (Night Slayer Book 1)
What was this book about?
Lanie Weber heads out to a secret research lab to recover the body of her father. Mac Knight is the pilot that is hired to take her there, though he has his own reasons for going to this secluded location. Once there they realize her father’s body isn’t where it should be. Mac is attacked by a strange creature and they need to figure out what exactly is going on.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I love the little baby chupacabra Gem. She is sweet and lovable (unlike the adult ones that turn people into vampires).
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Because I had read Book 2 first I knew a lot of things that it took them all book long to figure out. That was a bit frustrating – I wanted to scream at them “That isn’t how it works” because I already knew that!
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall: B, I enjoyed it overall and want to keep reading the series but it isn’t on the top of my “Must reads”
Possible Spoilers: I enjoyed the fact that we see how Dirk is converted into a changeling. I also genuinely like Lanie, her father, and all characters.
If I was to nominate this book for an award it would be: Most Creative Vampire Story
What was this book about?
Lanie Weber heads out to a secret research lab to recover the body of her father. Mac Knight is the pilot that is hired to take her there, though he has his own reasons for going to this secluded location. Once there they realize her father’s body isn’t where it should be. Mac is attacked by a strange creature and they need to figure out what exactly is going on.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I love the little baby chupacabra Gem. She is sweet and lovable (unlike the adult ones that turn people into vampires).
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Because I had read Book 2 first I knew a lot of things that it took them all book long to figure out. That was a bit frustrating – I wanted to scream at them “That isn’t how it works” because I already knew that!
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall: B, I enjoyed it overall and want to keep reading the series but it isn’t on the top of my “Must reads”
Possible Spoilers: I enjoyed the fact that we see how Dirk is converted into a changeling. I also genuinely like Lanie, her father, and all characters.
If I was to nominate this book for an award it would be: Most Creative Vampire Story
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Seduced by the Night
Seduced by the Night by Robin T. Popp (Night Slayer Book 2)
What was this book about?
Biochemist Bethany Stravinoski has no idea why her lab has been trashed and her assistant kidnapped. Consequently, she finds out that the world is more then what she ever knew it to be. There are these creatures, chupacabras, that turn people into vampires or changelings when they attack. Little does she know, but her current protector Dirk is one of those changelings.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I like the progression of the characters in this series. You are able to meet them and visit their interactions over and over. I also like the fact that Beth is a pretty stand up person and won’t cheat on her fiancé. Sometimes that seems to happen despite the fact it is a romance. Personally, for me when I read something like this I don’t want people to make mistakes like that.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Overall it was pretty predictable. I knew who was a bad guy, what the statue was etc.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall: B, it wasn’t a book that I felt was so entertaining I couldn’t put it down. But at the same point I wasn’t bored by it.
What was this book about?
Biochemist Bethany Stravinoski has no idea why her lab has been trashed and her assistant kidnapped. Consequently, she finds out that the world is more then what she ever knew it to be. There are these creatures, chupacabras, that turn people into vampires or changelings when they attack. Little does she know, but her current protector Dirk is one of those changelings.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I like the progression of the characters in this series. You are able to meet them and visit their interactions over and over. I also like the fact that Beth is a pretty stand up person and won’t cheat on her fiancé. Sometimes that seems to happen despite the fact it is a romance. Personally, for me when I read something like this I don’t want people to make mistakes like that.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Overall it was pretty predictable. I knew who was a bad guy, what the statue was etc.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall: B, it wasn’t a book that I felt was so entertaining I couldn’t put it down. But at the same point I wasn’t bored by it.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
The Down Home Zombie Blues
The Down Home Zombie Blues by Linnea Sinclair
What was this book about?
Mutant alien zombies have somehow come to Earth and are feeding on the population. Nil’s or earthlings don’t know what truly is going on and just are finding the remnants of what they believe is a serial killer. That is why Guardian Force Commander Jorie Mikkalah has been sent to this planet – to destroy the zombies and keep earthlings in the dark about the whole thing. Unfortunately from the beginning her team has had bad luck, and she is put in the path of police detective Theo Petrakos. She needs his help and must but all the rules aside to win this fight.
What was your favorite part about this book?
Once things got going I enjoyed the general story. It was something like I had never read before. Very unusual in terms of my normal genres.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I have to admit that at first I thought this book might be too sci-fi for me. That it was just going in places that I wouldn’t find interesting. Thankfully after the beginning it was able to mellow a little and not overwhelm you with all the alien technology and strange terms.
What genre would you consider this?
Sci-Fi Romance
Overall: B, I would read more by this author..
What was this book about?
Mutant alien zombies have somehow come to Earth and are feeding on the population. Nil’s or earthlings don’t know what truly is going on and just are finding the remnants of what they believe is a serial killer. That is why Guardian Force Commander Jorie Mikkalah has been sent to this planet – to destroy the zombies and keep earthlings in the dark about the whole thing. Unfortunately from the beginning her team has had bad luck, and she is put in the path of police detective Theo Petrakos. She needs his help and must but all the rules aside to win this fight.
What was your favorite part about this book?
Once things got going I enjoyed the general story. It was something like I had never read before. Very unusual in terms of my normal genres.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I have to admit that at first I thought this book might be too sci-fi for me. That it was just going in places that I wouldn’t find interesting. Thankfully after the beginning it was able to mellow a little and not overwhelm you with all the alien technology and strange terms.
What genre would you consider this?
Sci-Fi Romance
Overall: B, I would read more by this author..
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Honor Thyself
Honor Thyself by Danielle Steel
What was this book about?
Fifty year old actress Carole Barber has had a tough last few years. She has semi-retired from acting in order to write a book (something she has always wanted to do). Writers block is prohibiting her from doing this and she will not move on until she is done. So she takes off for a trip to Paris, a city that remains a favorite in her thoughts, memories and history.
When she gets there something horrible happens, a terrorist bomb leaves her in a coma. Since her family and friends are far away in America, no one knows who she is. When her family and friends find out what has happened they rush to her side. She must overcome memory loss with them telling her of her past. This helps bring about something few people are able to do – truly analyze her life – the good, the bad – and figure out how she got to the place she is in.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I really enjoyed the family part of it. They have a special relationship that is forged even stronger by this unfortunate accident.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Her relationship with her daughter is different. It makes it a little hard to like her daughter.
What genre would you consider this?
Contemporary Fiction.
Overall: B, Generally a good novel. I like how Danielle Steel has gotten away from pure romance novels and instead moved into more of a self-inspection type of genre.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Another One Bites the Dust
Another One Bites the Dust by Jennifer Rardin
What was this book about?
Jaz Parks is an assassin who is part of a special group of people who are dedicated to wiping out those that want to hurt the world. With her ragmuffin group of compatriots she looks to take out the evils and in this case that is in the form of Chien-Lung who has stolen something important from the government.
Her friends cover a host of supernatural abilities (and some natural one as well). Cole, is a Sensitive (like Jaz) who can tell what other supernatural things are around and allows him to track them. Vayl, is a vampire who has been around for hundreds of years and counts on Jaz to be the one thing that holds on to the goodness in his life. Miles, a human, is a genius when it comes to gadgets that they need to fight evil. Lastly, Cassandra is a psychic who can tell the future.
What was your favorite part about this book?
They seem like an interesting group of various characters. They are like a family, they don’t all get along and none are perfect.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
While I eventually got most of what is going on – it took me a little while considering I hadn’t read any of the other Jaz Parks books.
What genre would you consider this?
Parnormal
Overall: B, I would be interested in reading more.
What was this book about?
Jaz Parks is an assassin who is part of a special group of people who are dedicated to wiping out those that want to hurt the world. With her ragmuffin group of compatriots she looks to take out the evils and in this case that is in the form of Chien-Lung who has stolen something important from the government.
Her friends cover a host of supernatural abilities (and some natural one as well). Cole, is a Sensitive (like Jaz) who can tell what other supernatural things are around and allows him to track them. Vayl, is a vampire who has been around for hundreds of years and counts on Jaz to be the one thing that holds on to the goodness in his life. Miles, a human, is a genius when it comes to gadgets that they need to fight evil. Lastly, Cassandra is a psychic who can tell the future.
What was your favorite part about this book?
They seem like an interesting group of various characters. They are like a family, they don’t all get along and none are perfect.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
While I eventually got most of what is going on – it took me a little while considering I hadn’t read any of the other Jaz Parks books.
What genre would you consider this?
Parnormal
Overall: B, I would be interested in reading more.
Friday, March 14, 2008
The Outlaw Demon Wails
The Outlaw Demon Wails by Kim Harrison (The Hollows/Rachel Morgan Book 6)
What was this book about?
Witch Rachel Morgan has a complicated life. She lives with her best friend, Ivy, who is a living vampire and wants to not only suck her blood but get it on with her. She has a family of pixes, including her bodyguard/friend Jinks, who rely on her. Next door she has an elf friend (elves are supposed to be extinct) that she rescued from a demon. And of course don’t forget the fact that she has been marked with two demon marks and has demon smut on her aura that she really needs to get rid of. Oh, and she doesn’t know who killed her vampire boyfriend, Kisten – or if her or Ivy was involved in some way.
Rachel needs to figure out what exactly happened when her father and an elf did what they had to do to save her from some horrible disease. This disease was about to kill her when she was only two years old. What exactly did it make her? Who was her family? Why did they do this? What else does this mean for her? And can she ever get back to being a “good witch” who doesn’t have to deal with demons. It seems unlikely considering she has two that visit her all the time.
What was your favorite part about this book?
This is a series that the more you read the more you get into it. The characters are fun but flawed. And around every turn there is a new surprise or something you didn’t quite see happening.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Because these books are more of one really long story, I feel like I need to reread all the other books to remind myself of the intricacies of what has gone on. The books definitely end at a point that makes sense, you just wouldn’t enjoy it as much (I believe) if you just jumped into this series.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Fiction
Overall: B+ I like Rachel Morgan what can I say?
What was this book about?
Witch Rachel Morgan has a complicated life. She lives with her best friend, Ivy, who is a living vampire and wants to not only suck her blood but get it on with her. She has a family of pixes, including her bodyguard/friend Jinks, who rely on her. Next door she has an elf friend (elves are supposed to be extinct) that she rescued from a demon. And of course don’t forget the fact that she has been marked with two demon marks and has demon smut on her aura that she really needs to get rid of. Oh, and she doesn’t know who killed her vampire boyfriend, Kisten – or if her or Ivy was involved in some way.
Rachel needs to figure out what exactly happened when her father and an elf did what they had to do to save her from some horrible disease. This disease was about to kill her when she was only two years old. What exactly did it make her? Who was her family? Why did they do this? What else does this mean for her? And can she ever get back to being a “good witch” who doesn’t have to deal with demons. It seems unlikely considering she has two that visit her all the time.
What was your favorite part about this book?
This is a series that the more you read the more you get into it. The characters are fun but flawed. And around every turn there is a new surprise or something you didn’t quite see happening.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Because these books are more of one really long story, I feel like I need to reread all the other books to remind myself of the intricacies of what has gone on. The books definitely end at a point that makes sense, you just wouldn’t enjoy it as much (I believe) if you just jumped into this series.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Fiction
Overall: B+ I like Rachel Morgan what can I say?
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
The Serpent Prince
The Serpent Prince by Elizabeth Hoyt
What was this book about?
Country girl Luck Craddock-Hayes finds a naked man on the road, who looks close to death’s door. What does she do? She brings the injured man to her home to try to nurse him back to health. The naked man is Viscount Simon Iddlesleigh. Simon has a past that he continues to let haunt him. His brother, Ethan, was killed and he must exact revenge on anyone who was part of this horrible crime. Meanwhile, the men who did the deed are out to stop Simon before he can get to them.
What was your favorite part about this book?
The back story of Rosalind and Ethan was interesting.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
The terminology in this book in regards to their intimate moments was more crass then traditional in romance novels. It wasn’t horrible by any sense of the word but just not what was expected from what otherwise is a traditional historical romance.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Overall: C, it didn’t really hold my attention as much as it could have. In fact I put it down for a week and then picked it up again. This sort of behavior for me is unlikely when it comes to books. And I really had no desire to pick it up before then – when I did it was just because it was handy.
What was this book about?
Country girl Luck Craddock-Hayes finds a naked man on the road, who looks close to death’s door. What does she do? She brings the injured man to her home to try to nurse him back to health. The naked man is Viscount Simon Iddlesleigh. Simon has a past that he continues to let haunt him. His brother, Ethan, was killed and he must exact revenge on anyone who was part of this horrible crime. Meanwhile, the men who did the deed are out to stop Simon before he can get to them.
What was your favorite part about this book?
The back story of Rosalind and Ethan was interesting.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
The terminology in this book in regards to their intimate moments was more crass then traditional in romance novels. It wasn’t horrible by any sense of the word but just not what was expected from what otherwise is a traditional historical romance.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Overall: C, it didn’t really hold my attention as much as it could have. In fact I put it down for a week and then picked it up again. This sort of behavior for me is unlikely when it comes to books. And I really had no desire to pick it up before then – when I did it was just because it was handy.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
The Hazards of Hunting a Duke
The Hazards of Hunting a Duke by Julia London (The Desperate Debutantes Book 1)
What was this book about?
Lady Ava Fairchild is left penniless when her mother dies unexpectedly. Her step-father has no use for her or her sister and cousin. She knows that she must find a groom as soon as possible. When old acquaintance Jared Broderick, the Marquis of Middleton approaches her she cannot help but desire him for her new husband. What she has yet to realize is that Jared is only looking for a marriage of convenience, while she is looking for love.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I enjoyed the story. She tries to do her best to attract him (which ends up working by her treating him in the way that he treats her.)
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I would have liked to see more about Greer and Phoebe – but they have their own books so we can find their stories there.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall: B, A feel good quick read that is quite easy to digest.
What was this book about?
Lady Ava Fairchild is left penniless when her mother dies unexpectedly. Her step-father has no use for her or her sister and cousin. She knows that she must find a groom as soon as possible. When old acquaintance Jared Broderick, the Marquis of Middleton approaches her she cannot help but desire him for her new husband. What she has yet to realize is that Jared is only looking for a marriage of convenience, while she is looking for love.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I enjoyed the story. She tries to do her best to attract him (which ends up working by her treating him in the way that he treats her.)
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I would have liked to see more about Greer and Phoebe – but they have their own books so we can find their stories there.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall: B, A feel good quick read that is quite easy to digest.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Sword of Darkness
Sword of Darkness by Kinley MacGregor (Lords of Avalon Book 1)
What was this book about?
Peasant girl Seren is approached by two knights who inform her that she is to be the next “Mother of a Merlin” and that they need to guard her. This startling (and unbelievable) revolution, only scares her into the arms of Kerrigan. Kerrigan has made the decision to participate on the side of evil for many years and is King to Morgen’s Queen of Camelot. Nevertheless Seren’s refreshing ability to make him remember his human days can’t help but affect him. Can Seren help save him?
What was your favorite part about this book?
I really enjoyed the story of Camelot, Merlin, and Morgen. It is really an interesting take on the whole Lancelot, Guinevere, King Arthur story that we have all heard a million times.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
If you are looking for a happy fest where good overcomes evil and banishes it to the far ends of the earth you will not enjoy this book. But even though I am a happily ever after kinda person it didn’t take too much away from this story.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall: B, I am interested in seeing where this story ends up. More of the Lords of Avalon should shed some light on things.
What was this book about?
Peasant girl Seren is approached by two knights who inform her that she is to be the next “Mother of a Merlin” and that they need to guard her. This startling (and unbelievable) revolution, only scares her into the arms of Kerrigan. Kerrigan has made the decision to participate on the side of evil for many years and is King to Morgen’s Queen of Camelot. Nevertheless Seren’s refreshing ability to make him remember his human days can’t help but affect him. Can Seren help save him?
What was your favorite part about this book?
I really enjoyed the story of Camelot, Merlin, and Morgen. It is really an interesting take on the whole Lancelot, Guinevere, King Arthur story that we have all heard a million times.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
If you are looking for a happy fest where good overcomes evil and banishes it to the far ends of the earth you will not enjoy this book. But even though I am a happily ever after kinda person it didn’t take too much away from this story.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall: B, I am interested in seeing where this story ends up. More of the Lords of Avalon should shed some light on things.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Sizzle and Burn
Sizzle and Burn by Jayne Ann Krentz (Arcane Society Book 2)
What was this book about?
Raine Tallentyre has the ability to hear voices, unfortunately they are not good voices and only come when something horrible has happened. She meets Zack Jones, who also has an ability similar to hers – where he sees visions when he comes across bad psychic energy. Zack is in her life only because he senses that she may have a connection to the very bad Nightshade Operation that is trying to poison the psychic world. Raine cannot help but need his help after finding a prisoner in her aunt’s house, but she can’t trust Zack because of her family history with the Arcane Society (which he is a prominent member).
What was your favorite part about this book?
I really enjoy how they have interesting psychic talents, as well as a reasonable explanation for having them. Kinda makes me wish it all was true.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Nothing stood out.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall: B. Generally liked.
What was this book about?
Raine Tallentyre has the ability to hear voices, unfortunately they are not good voices and only come when something horrible has happened. She meets Zack Jones, who also has an ability similar to hers – where he sees visions when he comes across bad psychic energy. Zack is in her life only because he senses that she may have a connection to the very bad Nightshade Operation that is trying to poison the psychic world. Raine cannot help but need his help after finding a prisoner in her aunt’s house, but she can’t trust Zack because of her family history with the Arcane Society (which he is a prominent member).
What was your favorite part about this book?
I really enjoy how they have interesting psychic talents, as well as a reasonable explanation for having them. Kinda makes me wish it all was true.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
Nothing stood out.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall: B. Generally liked.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Morning Light
Morning Light by Catherine Anderson (Book 2 of the Harrigan Family)
What was this book about?
Psychic Loni MacEwen has been waiting her entire life to meet cowboy Clint Harrigan, the man of her dreams. When she does – she has a horrible vision of his son almost drowning and then being lost in the wilderness and she knows it has happened. Clint though has a hard time believing her at first considering he doesn’t even know that he has a son. She must help Clint find his son before he is hurt and overcome his issues with someone who is a psychic.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I really enjoyed their story – I thought it moved at a reasonable pace. It also wasn’t too unbelievable that she has those gifts. It isn’t meant to be a paranormal story – other then she has those abilities.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
The whole argument of Catholicism versus psychic abilities seemed a bit different. Not that it wouldn’t truly be something that people worried about but I didn’t really want to think about it in terms of a fun quick read.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall: B – I would like to read more of the Harrigan novels.
What was this book about?
Psychic Loni MacEwen has been waiting her entire life to meet cowboy Clint Harrigan, the man of her dreams. When she does – she has a horrible vision of his son almost drowning and then being lost in the wilderness and she knows it has happened. Clint though has a hard time believing her at first considering he doesn’t even know that he has a son. She must help Clint find his son before he is hurt and overcome his issues with someone who is a psychic.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I really enjoyed their story – I thought it moved at a reasonable pace. It also wasn’t too unbelievable that she has those gifts. It isn’t meant to be a paranormal story – other then she has those abilities.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
The whole argument of Catholicism versus psychic abilities seemed a bit different. Not that it wouldn’t truly be something that people worried about but I didn’t really want to think about it in terms of a fun quick read.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall: B – I would like to read more of the Harrigan novels.
Friday, March 7, 2008
The Warrior
The Warrior by Kinley MacGregor
What was this book about?
Scottish Laird Lochlan MacAllister finds out that his brother really didn’t die years ago in a horrible suicide drowning. Instead he may be out in the world somewhere remembering the last argument they had. He feels he must go out and find his brother. Meanwhile, he runs into family friend Catarina, who is being pursued by the King of France – her father. Her father wants to marry her off to some random prince and she is definitely against that fact. Lochlan must protect her and find his brother.
What was your favorite part about this book?
The story was believable in the sense that it was a slow romance and they couldn’t help but be together.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I wish I knew more about the family. I feel if I had some things would have made sense a little earlier. This is definitively part of a series.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Content in the book:
Romance: Definitely
Sex: Some
Mystery: A little
Violence: Not really
Overall: B. I enjoyed it overall and would be interested in reading more.
What was this book about?
Scottish Laird Lochlan MacAllister finds out that his brother really didn’t die years ago in a horrible suicide drowning. Instead he may be out in the world somewhere remembering the last argument they had. He feels he must go out and find his brother. Meanwhile, he runs into family friend Catarina, who is being pursued by the King of France – her father. Her father wants to marry her off to some random prince and she is definitely against that fact. Lochlan must protect her and find his brother.
What was your favorite part about this book?
The story was believable in the sense that it was a slow romance and they couldn’t help but be together.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I wish I knew more about the family. I feel if I had some things would have made sense a little earlier. This is definitively part of a series.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Content in the book:
Romance: Definitely
Sex: Some
Mystery: A little
Violence: Not really
Overall: B. I enjoyed it overall and would be interested in reading more.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
The Perfect Match
The Perfect Match by Kimberly Cates
What was this book about?
When magical Rowena Brown meets an animal she can tell who should own it. Deputy Cash Lawless wants nothing to do with the large problem dog – Destroyer who Rowena has decided should be in his life (and the life of his two daughters). Rowena’s “magic” can’t help but put back together a family that is racked with pain and make them a true family again.
What was your favorite part about this book?
The story was interesting – you didn’t want to put it down. You loved the children, the heroine and the hero. They all seemed almost real.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
None
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Content in the book:
Romance: Yep – lots – they learned to love each other
Sex: Some
Mystery:None
Violence: None
Overall: B+ - a good story and can’t wait to read more.
What was this book about?
When magical Rowena Brown meets an animal she can tell who should own it. Deputy Cash Lawless wants nothing to do with the large problem dog – Destroyer who Rowena has decided should be in his life (and the life of his two daughters). Rowena’s “magic” can’t help but put back together a family that is racked with pain and make them a true family again.
What was your favorite part about this book?
The story was interesting – you didn’t want to put it down. You loved the children, the heroine and the hero. They all seemed almost real.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
None
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Content in the book:
Romance: Yep – lots – they learned to love each other
Sex: Some
Mystery:None
Violence: None
Overall: B+ - a good story and can’t wait to read more.
Monday, March 3, 2008
A Summer Smile
A Summer Smile by Iris Johansen
What was this book about?
Zilah Dabala has a history of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. This time when she is finally returning to her home country her plane is hijacked and she is taken prisoner. Daniel Seifert, has been retired but when he sees Zilah’s photo he can’t help but want to go rescue her.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I really enjoyed the biplay between the Sheikh and Pandora. Personally I would have been more interested if I was reading a story about them. They had fun characters that you wanted to know more about.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I felt this story was rushed. It seemed like everything just went a little to fast. For someone with Zilah’s history to go running into Daniel’s arms for no real reason just seems like something odd. And his obsession with her from her photo is a little creepy.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Content in the book:
Romance: Some
Sex: Some
Mystery: None
Violence: Not really much to mention
Overall: D+, just generally not a story I enjoyed. But as I said I will be watching for Pandora’s story. I think that might be fun.
What was this book about?
Zilah Dabala has a history of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. This time when she is finally returning to her home country her plane is hijacked and she is taken prisoner. Daniel Seifert, has been retired but when he sees Zilah’s photo he can’t help but want to go rescue her.
What was your favorite part about this book?
I really enjoyed the biplay between the Sheikh and Pandora. Personally I would have been more interested if I was reading a story about them. They had fun characters that you wanted to know more about.
What was your least favorite part about this book?
I felt this story was rushed. It seemed like everything just went a little to fast. For someone with Zilah’s history to go running into Daniel’s arms for no real reason just seems like something odd. And his obsession with her from her photo is a little creepy.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Content in the book:
Romance: Some
Sex: Some
Mystery: None
Violence: Not really much to mention
Overall: D+, just generally not a story I enjoyed. But as I said I will be watching for Pandora’s story. I think that might be fun.
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