My Halloween review of Maggie Shayne's Twilight Guardian

I was happy and anxious to read Maggie Shayne's Twilight Guardians which is her first book in her series Wings in the Night Reborn.  I was happy because I was so eager to revisit the beautiful world that Maggie Shayne created in her Wings in the Night series but I was anxious because I have hoped since Wings in the Night ended that she would revisit this world and I was afraid of getting my hopes up.  Well, it turned out that I had nothing to worry about.  She delved back into the world and I was excited to see some of the other characters return because that meant they survived the vicious slaughter of their kind.

The first thing that I noticed was that the book begins a few years after the vampires were nearly wiped out in the last book of Wings in the Night.  Though I still worry for the main characters of the Wings in the Night series, I was happy to see that some of them still survived though in a much darker world than what the original series was set in.  Though I hope to see the other vampires I grew to love in books to come, there is a bigger threat than ever before and of course, that threat comes from the DPI which is a government agency dedicated to wiping out vampires.  So, the world is even more frightening and more interesting before.  

The characters are excellent as always.  I can understand Charlie or Killian and I can admire them.  These characters are real in a way that you can see why they would react the way they do even if you don't necessarily agree with their actions.  Maggie Shayne makes you fall in love with her vampires and she makes you really dislike the DPI.

So, I love the characters and the setting but Maggie's writing style is absolute magic.  She can enthrall you with words and make you see these plots unraveling or a character's looks and attitude.  She has a love of words and it shows with each word that she writes.  This beautiful and engaging story captured me and I was washed in each emotion as I walked with Charlie as she moved from being a fragile and naive girl to a very strong woman.  

So, I'll end this by saying that I truly do not find one thing that bothered me about this book besides the fact that I want to read another one and I have to wait for Maggie to work her magic once again.  So until then, I will recommend Twilight Guardians for adults who love magical writing, vampires and romance.   

My Rating: 5+

Book Cover Rating: 5+  (This is a seriously beautiful cover)

Taking A Walk With Fledglings...My Review of Betrayed by P.C. and Kristen Cast

I know it has been a while but I would like to give you my review for Betrayed (Book 2) of The House of Night Series by P.C. and Kristen Cast.  First, I would like to say that I enjoyed reading this book.  There is plenty of suspense and now there are murders of humans added to the mix and of course the threat of death lingers over each fledgling who may or may not make it through the change to vampyre.  Worse, there is a horrible betrayal that will profoundly affect Zoey and her friends.  Honestly, it made me cry.  As always, I am trying to do this without giving too much away.  

So, let's start with the plot.  I loved it.  It was fast-paced.  I wasn't ever bored with what was happening. It is a true page turner.  I like the way it shows good and bad.  It is very real and the experiences that Zoey and you are able to relate to what Zoey and her friends go through.  Somehow, the writers of this book display that while surrounded by such darkness.  

The characters are beautifully done.  I love how P.C. and Kristen Cast were able to show that people who you think are evil to begin with, may not be as bad as you think and people who you think are wonderful could be hiding darkness.  The reactions of Zoey and her friends are believable because they are extremely real.

Now, I want to talk about setting.  Since I've read two books in this series, I feel like I know the setting pretty well.  It's magical and beautiful but also filled with both darkness and light.  I really did fall in love with the setting this time because I understood it a bit more.  

The one thing that still bothers me is that the characters are a bit judgmental.  However, I'm beginning to see that it may be a major part of the story and there is a reason behind it that will come to light later.  I hope I'm right.  

I definitely recommend this book for anyone who likes paranormal books especially those that involve vampires.  This series has an original and interesting take on them.  

Join me in a few days for my review on Twilight Guardians by Maggie Shayne.

Book rating: 4.7

Cover rating: 5

My Throwback Review of Twilight Phantasies by Maggie Shayne

Book Description from Twilight Phantasies by Maggie Shayne:

In two centuries of living death, Eric Marquand had never once cried out against the cruel fate that had condemned him to walk forever in shadow. But then, he found the woman he knew was his chosen one--and understood that to possess her was to destroy her...

Tamara Dey trembled at the aura of dread and despair that enshrouded this creature of the night. And yet, against all reason, she saw clearly that her destiny was eternally entwined with his, and that she must know--even welcome--the terror and the splendor of the vampire's kiss...

For centuries, loneliness has haunted them from dusk till dawn. Yet now, from out of the darkness, shines the light of eternal life...eternal love.

First, I call this a throwback book review because I have read this book a few times.  However, I have just finished it again for a very good reason.  Maggie Shayne has returned to writing about her vampires in a new sequel series called Twilight Reborn.  I will actually put a link to Maggie Shayne's website on the bottom of this page so you can see the new one for yourself.  However, when I re-read something I haven't reviewed on this blog, I will make sure to write one.  So, later you will see the rest of the reviews on her other books.  Though I will be doing a special review soon on Twilight Guardians.

First, I will admit that Maggie Shayne is one of my favorite authors.  She is someone I do look up to as an author myself.  So, I can't say that I am surprised by my findings of this book because the truth is that I knew I would love it.  However, I can describe why I love Twilight Phantasies so much.  Before I go into the review, I will state the only worry I had was that as time passed, it might have lost some of its original beauty.  That is not the case.  It is still a gorgeous collection of words.  Maggie Shayne does really well at descriptions.  She can make you see what you are reading and the way she describes scenes is almost poetic.  Twilight Phantasies shows her early career and she only gets better.  The romance between Tamara and Eric has everything it should.  There are plenty of chivalrous actions, warm embraces and hot kisses.  However, there is also action and danger because there is a force called DPI that is out to eradicate all vampires and they are ruthless.  

Now, I will go into the characters.  The first is Eric Marquand.  He's sweet and kind but has a bit of a temper.  He's also lonely and willing to sacrifice himself for those he loves and of  course, he's tall, dark and handsome.  Then, there is Tamara.  She is sweet but tough.  She is naive but in a way you can understand.  She will fight to the death for those she loves which is a good thing.  I am always happy to see a woman who is not always the damsel in distress.  I think she saves Eric as much as he saves her.  There is also Eric's sire, Roland.  I have a confession...I love Roland.  He's yummy.  I hope I'm allowed to say that.  He's tough and protective.   He knows how to melt your heart with his words and he's just...YUMMY.   There is also Jamey.  He's just a boy but brave and stubborn.  I love brave and stubborn people but Jamey is also smart.  I loved his character right away. He was a welcome edition to the story.  In other words, he wasn't just thrown in there to fill pages.  He was an active part of the story.   Now, I'm to the great evil...DPI.  There are two main characters in this book from the DPI but I'm afraid I'll ruin the story if I step too much into their personalities and I don't want to give away too much but I will say the DPI evil in this book is shiver worthy.  Anyways, everyone should read this book...Except for children.  There is definitely some naughtiness that is not for their eyes or minds.

My Rating: 5 (Of course) 

Book Cover Rating: 3 (It's pretty but it doesn't match the characters.)

As promised, here is the link to Maggie Shayne's website:   http://maggieshayne.com/

I do hope you will visit her page.  I think you will love her too!!

Here is the list of the next ten books.  :)  I hope you are looking forward to the reviews as much as I am looking forward to reading them.

1.) Twilight Phantasies (Book 1) Wings in the Night Series by Maggie Shayne

2.)  Betrayed (Book 2) The House of Night Series by P.C. and Kristen Cast

3.)  Twilight Guardians (Book 1) Wings in the Night Reborn by Maggie Shayne

4.) The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving

5.) The Classmate Murders (Book 1) A Jim Richards Murder Mystery by Bob Moats

6.) Call Me (Book 1) A Dani Ripper Novel by John Locke

7.) Blue Moon (Book 1) Night Creature Series by Lori Handeland 

8.) Liberty for Paul (Book 2) Scandalous Sisters Series by Rose Gordon

9.) Of Mice and Men by John Steinback

10.) Dead Girls Don't Blog (Book 1) Murder Blog Mysteries by Pamela Frost Dennis

Thank you and I hope you look forward to the reviews.

Fighting for Survival with The Hunger Games

I actually did give this time to think it over before I gave a review.  This was one of those books that I was afraid to read.  Everyone seemed to love it and in my experience when it has that much hype, I usually get let down.  This is one of those books that provesthat theory wrong. I really do love the book. Suzanne Collins did something that I enjoy to read. That is she didn't shy away from the dark thing.  Instead, she dove directly into them.  I was able to engage with the story straight on.  I will also say that her choice to make the book in first person was a good one.  Otherwise, Katniss may have seemed a bit cold as a leading character. Because of first person, you can know what she's thinking.  There is plenty of action and there was some romance too.  Also, there was struggle and sacrifice.  So, there are plenty of things that help you dive into this book.  

The characters are vibrant and drastically different from each other.  They have their own motivations and character traits.  You realize that even with their faults, you love them.  For example: Yes, Haymitch was a drunk.  You understand why and you also realize he does want to help Katniss and Peeta.  He is likable even though he's flawed.  

Anyways, this book is going on my top shelf where my other favorites are.  The only people I do not recommend this book to is children.  There is too much violence.  Everyone else should definitely read it. 

I also recommend the movie.  Yes, the book is better but not by too much.  You can see that they tried to keep the book and movie close.  

My rating: 5

Book Cover rating: 5

Movie Rating: 4.5 

Hanging out with the Ya-Yas...My review of Little Altars Everywhere by Rebecca Wells

I am beginning to make a habit of writing my reviews very quickly after I read a book.  It hasn't been an hour yet and I am still living in the world of the Walkers and the Ya-Yas.  So, here is a very fresh review.
The best way to describe this book is that it's the perfect balance of light and dark.  During the darkest parts, my heart bled with the pain these people have gone through but during the lightest parts, I remember what it was like to live in a small town where farmers loved their land and people appreciated the smallest joys in life.  Yes, there were moments of true horror but there were also moments where there were tenderness and love.  The only complaint I have about the story is that there were parts that passed too slowly and in those moments, I lost connection with the characters.  However, when they picked up the pace a little, I was able to regain that connection.  So, it did not ruin the book whatsoever.
The characters were rich and beautifully written.  I loved that Mrs. Wells gave chapters to different characters.  It allowed me to see their differences and see things through their eyes.  Also, you discovered what was important to each of them.  They are each lovable in their own way, though the secrets revealed makes you wonder about that love in very much the same way as the Walker children do.  Also, you find peace and happiness in the places that are most simple with each of the characters and because of this, I found them to be real and beautiful.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and I have no doubt that anyone would.  Now a small note to males...I know this seems like a book geared more toward women but I truly believe you can relate to it too and I even believe that you would enjoy it.  So, I do recommend this book for adults.  There are some subjects too sensitive for children.  However, I believe it would be a good read for anyone else.

My rating: 4.2
My book Cover Rating: 5 (Adorable)

My Review of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

This is very fresh on my mind.  I finished The Book Thief five minutes ago.  As you can see, I could not wait to give my humble opinion of this book.   So, as I wipe the tears from my cheeks, I will collect myself and try to give you a proper review.
First, this is another book I wasn't sure about.  There are so many people who have told me how wonderful this book is that I was a bit skeptical.  After all, I have run into the experience where I have heard how wonderful a book is from so many people and it's just not wonderful at all.  Of course, this can go both ways.  I've heard people hate books that I love.  Anyways, I wasn't disappointed in The Book Thief at all.
I would like to say that it does deal with a part of history that speaks to me.  I study my family history and I have found that I am part Romani on my mother's side.  The Romani were also persecuted alongside people of Jewish decent.  So, I will say that the book immediately had my interest because of that.
Going into this book, I hoped that the characters would be rich with varying personalities.  Not only did I love the main character, Liesel but I loved all of the other characters as well.  It struck me that Markus Zusak has a wonderful gift where he is able to give his characters such drastically different personalities and still be able to have them intermingle in such a beautiful way because of this gift, I was more engaged in this book than I have been with any other in a long time.
Also, The Book Thief is very emotionally charged.  I was not kidding when I said that I was wiping tears from my eyes at the beginning of this blog.  I literally was.  Thankfully, the emotions are negative, positive and everything in between.
Also, I am very glad to say that I got a true glimpse into the world at that time.  The fear and the ability to find the happiness within the darkest and most evil of times was wonderfully represented.  The stories showed such a strong sense of human endurance.  Also, they proved that not everything is right or wrong.  There are a lot of gray areas.  To say that I love The Book Thief is an understatement.  I will be watching the movie tomorrow.  So, obsessed is a good word for how I feel about this beautiful collection of words.  I recommend The Book Thief to everyone.


My rating:  5 Stars  (I would give it more if I could)
Book Cover Rating: 5

Getting Romantic: My Review of The Bride and The Brute by Laurel O'Donnell

My review of The Bride and The Brute will start on shaky ground.  This is due to the fact that I am going to dive right into the criticism but please stay with me because the praise follows.  So, it's not as bad as you think.  My first criticism is that even though I went into this book realizing that it was a short story, I realized within the first two chapters that it needed to be longer.  There is too much going on too fast and you have to really force yourself to keep up with the pace of the romance.  Though the story wasn't destroyed by its length, it would have benefited from a longer telling.  Second and this is my last complaint, there were too many similes.  The scenes would have been perfect without their overuse.  They distracted me from what would otherwise be perfect scenes.  That's the end of my criticism.  I promise.  Now, let me get to the good stuff.

Jayce is an awesome character.  She is everything that you want in a heroine.  She is demure, sweet and kind but she's also stubborn and brave.  Reese is definitely book boyfriend material and he is definitely a brute.  I really enjoyed the characters and I even enjoyed the more minor characters in the story.  

The story line is wonderful with a naughty little twist.  I loved the romance.  I really didn't want the story to end so quickly though it was a beautiful story.  Though I do have some criticism of this book,  I do recommend for people who love romance and especially for those who want a quick read.

My rating: 3.5

Cover Rating: 4 

My Review of Invisible by Cecily Anne Paterson

I will be honest and say that I wasn't sure what to expect from this book.  I honestly picked it because the cover reminded me of my home state of Tennessee and I was feeling homesick.  Sadly, I also read some of the more scathing reviews and I wondered if I had made a mistake.  I can announce to the world that I did not make a mistake and Invisible is now one of my favorite books.

I'll start with the main character, Jazmine.  I instantly loved her.  She is so real that I am automatically engaged with her and wish what's best for her.  Although she is partially deaf, this is not what defines her.  She has been through the heart wrenching tragedy of losing her father and cuts herself off from the rest of the world.  I related to her because that tragedy is all too real and I did the exact same thing.  She does slowly come out of her shell in this story and it is beautiful to watch her true self emerge.

The story itself is engaging.  Not once did I find myself bored.  I only experienced concern, sadness and an absolute joy while reading.  Also, I had the rare emotion to feel blessed to experience this story.  So, I would like to first thank Mrs. Paterson for writing such a sweet and precious story and I would like to recommend Invisible to anyone who loves Young Adult dramas or anything that is emotionally charged.

My rating: 5 stars

Book Cover rating: 5 stars  

A is for Awesome...My Review of A Is For Alibi by Sue Grafton

I realize that this one has been out for a while but I believe even books that have been out for a while deserve reviews.  I will say that I stepped into this book on a recommendation from a friend.  I was a bit skeptical that it would be a good book but I always give even books I am skeptical about a chance.  I am extremely glad that I did.
I did enjoy the main character, Kinsey Millhone.  I could relate to her and most of all I could respect her.  She was tough but she had real emotions that you could see anyone having.  In other words, she wasn't perfect but she was likable.  I respect that in a character.
Also, the suspects and even the people who Kinsey interacted with were extremely real too.  As a matter of fact, as the suspects grew I could feel myself hoping they weren't the one. Of course, you want that suspense in the book.
I loved the story line and I loved the twists and turns which gave the book more suspense.  No, I will not ruin the story for you and tell you about them but there were plenty.  The book was well-written and I do see myself reading it again.
If I was going to complain, it would be about one place that I felt the pacing was a little off but it definitely did not ruin the book for me.  Honestly, it could have been just the way I was reading that particular day.  I found that the story was enjoyable and I do recommend this book for all who love a really good mystery.

My rating: 4.5
Book Cover Rating:  4

Getting Epic with Beowulf

I'm sorry there is no cover this time but that's mostly because the book didn't have a cover to begin with.  So, there will be no grading on the cover.  However, I have plenty to say about this epic story.  First, I want to say that even though it is difficult to read for most, it is worth it especially if you love adventure stories.
First, the battles are awesome.  There are three...The battle against Grendel, the battle against his mother and the final battle against a dragon.  Each of them are fierce battles. Each of them are grisly and each definitely have moments of awe.
Now that my euphoria over the battles is finished, I can now tell you about Beowulf.  He is the ultimate warrior.  I mean, he's so much the warrior that he rips Grendel's arm off with his bare hands.  The reason for this battle is because King Hrothgar needed help to defeat Grendel because he kept attacking the mead hall and killing his men.  Beowulf comes and offers his aid.  A battle is waged and Grendel is defeated when Beowulf rips his arm from his shoulder.  Grendel goes back to the marshes where he dies.
The second battle is one of revenge.  Like any mother, Grendel's mother is angry and attacks.  Beowulf has a fight with her and defeats her with a special sword.
The third battle happens much later.  Beowulf has returned to his people and becomes their king.  A slave steals from a dragon.  The dragon gets really angry and begins to attack Beowulf's people.  Beowulf defeats the dragon but dies in the process.
I realize there are a lot of spoilers in this review but in this case the spoilers will help you understand what is happening.  Please don't watch the movie and think that's the story.  They took quite a few liberties in the movie  I truly believe that everyone needs to read this story.  It has made it throughout this vast amount of time for a reason.  So, please read this beautiful story.  I recommend this book for everyone.

Rating:  5 Stars
 
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Absolutely Scandalous My Review of Intentions of the Earl (Book 1) Scandalous Sisters Series

I have just finished the delightful and beautiful tale Intentions of the Earl.  I have to say that I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would.  The characters were delightful.  Their backgrounds were interesting and just the way that Rose Gordon wove the story was intriguing.  By the way, the first thing that caught my attention was the cover.  It is simple but captivating.

With this cover as a focus of optimism for this book, I read the story of the mischievous American lady Brooke and the tantalizing Lord Townson, Andrew Black, who is paid to ruin her.  I know it sounds horrible but it did make a beautiful story of love, betrayal and choices.  Brooke's character is one that most women could identify with and Rose Gordon did a wonderful job with Andrew's character, who she somehow had me shaking my head at sometimes and sympathizing with during others.  This book is not a stuffy read.  Instead, I found myself smiling during most of the read.  You truly end up wishing the best for Brooke and Andrew and that is what we look for in Romance.  So, good job, Mrs. Gordon.  

If there was one complaint, it is the repetition of phrases.  That was a bit trying at times but not enough to cause me to put the book down in annoyance.  I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys Romance...especially Period Romance.  I am really looking forward to reading the rest of this series.  Thank you, Rose Gordon for the wonderful read.   

My Rating: 4.9

Cover Rating 4.6