Mindnumbinglysomething...

Moving Day

2011-01-19T16:52:00.000+08:00

Finally all done. This blog has now moved to http://slipcarefullyblog.blogspot.com. I'll be deleting this one shortly..So don't forget to add the new one to your lists.
I've basically combined this blog and the other one Diedandgonetoheaven into one - cause lets face it. It's 2011 and my level of laziness is only increasing .. One blog is easier to maintain that two..

Personal Demon by Kelley Armstrong

2010-12-13T03:21:00.000+08:00

Series: Women of the Otherworld, Book 8

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Copyright: 2008

Pages: 252

Rating: 3 / 5

Review:
This was a quick fun read. Hope and Karl first featured in the Dates From Hell Anthology, which was enough of a teaser to make you want these two come together. This is the first series that i've read out of order. I've read the first four books, and let just say i got fed up of reading about and from Paige's POV.

This book is from Hope's and Lucas' POVs. Hope goes undercover for the Cortez Cabal to repay the debt Karl and her owe Benicio Cortez, only she's doing it alone cause Karls left her. Enter Karl, and thing get a whole lot interesting.

I liked this new side of Karl where he's trying to open up to Hope - he's always been the cool, aloof thief to me so far, so this side of him was good to see.

I liked Lucas' POV as well. It was interesting to see him struggle to maintain his beliefs and ideals and yet to what's right for the Cortez Cabal and deal with his father

All in all, a good read.

See my review of the previous books from this series here

Wild Fire by Christine Feehan

2010-12-11T01:19:00.000+08:00

Series: Leopard Series, Book 4

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Copyright: 2010

Pages: 400

Rating: 3 / 5

Review: Pretty good book and i'm beginning to think that the Leopard Series may just be better than Feehan's Carpathian Series . After 21 books, the plot is progressing slowly and interestingly but the love formula's gone stale with the Carpathian couples. Wild Fire was a bit different in that it started with Connor having betrayed his mate by seducing her on a mission and not sharing the matey news with her.

His team is now on a new mission rescuing leopard hostages in the jungles of Panama and there's a chance to reunite with Isabeau. But will the evil villainess ruin the day? (note to self: tone down on the drama a bit, the chocolate happy-high is showing)

I liked this book. The characters and situations are described well enough that you can imagine being a part of the leopard people in the jungle. I laughed with these leopards and was definitely touched at the mushy wiring at times. Typical Feehan style - although i have to say it did get a bit too mushy at times. Men do not get so emotional - it's a bit unreal when they do. I also thought Isabeau was a bit irritating. Her progress the entire book was somewhat like -

He betrayed me.. he betrayed me.. he killed my father

and then 10 mins after meeting Connor again she goes
i can't keep my hands off him

and then again
he betrayed me..but i want him

huh?

But other than that? Nice

Click here for previous book reviews

Black Dust Mambo - Adrian Phoenix

2010-12-07T03:45:00.001+08:00

Series: Hoodoo, Book 1

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Copyright: 2010

Pages: 368

Rating: 3 / 5

Review: If you liked the other Adrian Pheonix series The Maker's Song and you liked the writing style with different threads of the story running simultaneously with a lotta things going on and all joining to a big end with enough thread dangling for part 2, then you'll like this book too. Set in the world of magic and hoodoo, Black Dust Mambo centres around Kallie ,who find herself surrounded by death and black magic at the annual carnival at New Orleans. Her hot nomad squeeze ends up dead on her bed, body and soul dead. His clan brother Layne, hot as sin in dreads (still can't picture a hot dread locked man, but i'm willing to go with it) decides he owes keeping Kallie outta trouble and alive since his best friend died for her.

As Kallie and Belladonna, her best friend, and a couple of the other folks try to get to the bottom of things, people are getting shot at, killed, and generally magically possessed. And in between it all, Kallie has only one name and reason given to her by the killer for all the madness going on - Gabrielle LaRue - her aunt and the woman who has raised her for the past 9 years. Which makes this a pretty fun book of what-the-hell-is-going-on?

So in a nutshell, if you like a fast paced story thats different from the other stuff out there, this is the book for you. There wasn't much world building - but there didn't need to be. The author made it interesting enough so even when i wasn't all in love with the Cajun French references some of the time, i wanted to know what would happen and how it would all end. And isn't that all you need from a book?

Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews

2010-09-21T02:46:00.000+08:00

Series: Kate Daniels, Book 1

Genre: Paranormal, Urban Fantasy

Copyright: 2007

Pages: 260

Rating: 4 / 5

Synopsis: When the magic is up, rogue mages cast their spells and monsters appear, while guns refuse to fire and cars fail to start. But then technology returns, and the magic recedes as unpredictably as it arose, leaving all kinds of paranormal problems in its wake.
Kate Daniels is a down-on-her-luck mercenary who makes her living cleaning up these magical problems. But when Kate's guardian is murdered, her quest for justice draws her into a power struggle between two strong factions within Atlanta's magic circles.
The Masters of the Dead, necromancers who can control vampires, and the Pack, a paramilitary clan of shapechangers, blame each other for a series of bizarre killings—and the death of Kate's guardian may be part of the same mystery. Pressured by both sides to find the killer, Kate realizes she's way out of her league—but she wouldn't have it any other way…

Review:
I've been stalling against reading Magic Bites mostly because of the good reviews I've read. A lot of times books don't live up to all the hype. Plus there's such a thing as having too many good books to read and then ending up being confused between the worlds and scenarios and unable to enjoy the book for all it has to give you. I finally succumbed , mostly cause my sister wants me to catch up so I can buy the second book which she's dying to read. Big mistake putting off reading this series, i absolutely loved it.

Ilona Andrews has created a beautiful world which alternatively runs on magic and technology. There's a different class of vampires, a pack of shapeshifting beasts, a whole bunch of mages, guilds and other magically inclined protectors and other things that go bump in the night. And in the midst of them all there's Kate - a mercenary who works to clean up the bumpy things and has a fair bit of mystery about her.

This one has Kate investigating the death of her guardian while introducing us to the other supes in the story. The world building is detailed just right and paced in a way that everything doesn't at you all at once.

"I'm not dumb, but if I tell you I'm tough, you'll peg me for a bravo, so I'm going to smile cryptically."

Any book with a chick with mysterious powers yielding a saber and an even sharper tongue is always going to be a pick-me-up book. But with Andrew's writing, this became an awesome read. The characters have depth, the writing gives you a sense that you're actually there with Kate, the conversations are sharp and witty - and this is urban fantasy the way its meant to be written.

If the first book is enough to add an author to your favourites read, you know there's good reading ahead

Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris

2010-05-14T18:31:00.001+08:00

Series: The Southern Vampire Series / Sookie Stackhouse, Book 10

Genre: Paranormal

Copyright: 2010

Pages: 311

Rating: 4 / 5

Synopsis: Sookie Stackhouse has finally settled into a relationship with the Viking vampire Eric, and her errant brother Jason seems to have his life in order, too. But all the other people in Sookie’s life – Eric himself, her former lover Bill, her friend and boss Sam – are having family problems. Eric’s maker shows up with Eric’s ‘brother’ in tow, the ailing Bill can only be healed by a blood sibling, and Sam’s brother’s marriage is about to take place... or will it? The furor raised by the coming out of the two-natured has yet to settle; some people are just not ready to sit down to dinner with a man who turns into a dog. And Sookie herself is still recovering from her last ordeal. She’s definitely improving, physically and mentally, but she’s always going to have some dark moments now. The werewolves tell her that there have been strange and ominous passers-by in the Stackhouse woods; now Sookie is about to come face-to-face with one of her more distant relatives...

Review:

After 9 books of watching the goings on in Sookies' life like a nosy neighbour who cant stay away and lusting after Alexander Skarsgård, a really weird thing happened…book 10 released and I didn’t realise it until I saw it marked on Goodreads. That was easily remedied by shamelessly going out and getting a copy of the book to read till the wee hours of the next afternoon. What is not easily remedied is the wait for the next book, the 'huh, there's no more pages, this was the end?' and the 'give the Sook a break and a HEA' feeling going through my head.

Book 10 has all the usual characters - an abundance of supes and crazies, each with their own problems, each having Sookie involved in them till you wonder how she manages to keep track of everything without a blog, not enough of hot loving with Eric, dead bodies in her back yard, someone out to kill Sookie… you know the usual

Book 9 ended with the traumatic and almost near death torturous experience and rescue of Sookie. So it was only natural that Dead in the Family would have a subdued and shaky beginning. Sookie and Eric are together and now very much in love. It does seem like supe responsibilities and other people keep getting in their way, but they're making do. Harris has made them comfortable with each other, but how its ends with an immortal vampire and a very mortal telepath is still up in the air.

As the book name suggests, its all about family bonds in this book. We see a much matured Jason (finally) and a surprise visit by Eric's creator and new brother. While the gateway to fairy closed in the last book, Claude is still around, and in a completely unexpected move, he moves in with Sookie on the pretext of being close to someone of fairy blood. But is he really there for family bonds, or something else? Either way I hope to see more of him, I like this new and hopefully improving side of Claude. I was surprised at so little Bill time in this book, since he was the one who rescued Sook in book 9. I can bet however, that you'd never guess how things turn out for Bill.

In a way, this book was filled with quite a few surprises. I don't know if I was too excited to be actually reading this that I didn't get it or that it really was a surprise that I didn't know the who dunnits at all in this book. Harris seems to be going in a new direction with this book. 10 books on with the same main character and I will become hard to keep the excitement and momentum going. For now, I just felt Sookie has had it rough for too long. I do hope the next book is a bit happier.

Click here for reviews of books 1-9

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading?

2010-05-10T14:39:00.000+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by Sheila @ One Persons Journey through a world of Books. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week.

Read last week:
I managed to finish quite a bit of books last week, and slowly, very very slowly catch up on reviews.

>> To Wed a Wicked Earl by Olivia Parker (click for review) Loved this book.

>> Need by Carrie Jones (click for review) I had great expectations from this one, but something was missing. As a YA, it still is a good book, but maybe I've been pampered by the other great world-building and witty lines out there for this one to make much impact?

>> Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews (review to come) I've been stalling against reading this one, mostly because of the good reviews I've seen out so far. There's such a thing as having too many good books to read and then ending up being confused between the worlds and scenarios and being unable to enjoy the book for all it has to give you. I finally succumbed last night, mostly cause my sister wants me to catch up so I can buy the second book which she's dying to read. Very very promising series this one.

>> The Warlord Wants Forever by Kresley Cole - I'm on the fence with this series. This is a mini story as an intro to the series and it wasn’t very captivating. I might give book 2 a try sometime though.

>> The Man Within (Breeds, #2) by Lora Leigh - excess of sex aside, Leigh does write good stories. I read the 17th book in this series last year (yes, 17th) and really loved it so figured I should start from the beginning. Good plot, some hot scenes and a HEA. I'm going to pick up the next book hoping its on Sherra and Kane.

>> Wild Card (Elite Ops, #1) by Lora Leigh - This series is a continuation from Leigh's other series Tempting Seals. No paranormal stuff here, just plain ole hunky Navy Seals. I liked Wild Card, although I did get a bit too sad at times. A supposed dead Nathan Malone comes back as a colder and harder Noah Blake. There's nothing on Nathan in the new man except his love for his wife, who is now in danger. At times I did think Noah needed a book or two thrown at his head for sheer stubbornness and ego. I really did like this book, but if you're planning on picking it up, it will make more sense if you read the tempting seals series first.

Also reviewed:

>> Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon

>> And Then He Kissed Her by Laura Lee Guhrke You need to read this book. The Series is called Girl Bachelors. The heroine is awesome, and the hero is one you want for yourself. No ditzy people and real smart dialogue. What more do you need

Reading this week:

>> The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss - I'm so excited about this one, I'm still on page one. Does that make sense? I've read the jacket covers some 20 times so far though. It promises awesomeness.

>> Beneath the Skin (The Maker's Song, #3) by Adrian Phoenix

That’s a whole lotta typing for a Monday morning. And did I actually use the word hunky?

Happy reading everyone. Have a great week ahead.

Historical Fiction Challenge - Completed

2010-05-09T19:13:00.001+08:00

Historical fiction is something i'm slowly beginning to fall in love with. I've always wanted to get into this genre, but for some reason never got around to it. But a lil bit of searching and you can find a whole lotta great books in this genre.
When i signed up for this challenge, i knew choosing level Curious with only 3 books to complete it wouldnt be enough, i'd be reading a whole lot more. But with work and everything else going on, 3 seemed to be a good idea then.

The score is 4 and counting till date..

1 - Loretta Chase - Lord of Scoundrels

2 - Promises Linger by Sarah McCarty

3 - To Wed a Wicked Earl by Olivia Parker

4 - And Then He Kissed Her by Laura Lee Guhrke

The Historical fiction challenge is hosted at Royal Reviews here.

Need by Carrie Jones

2010-05-09T07:48:00.000+08:00

Series: Need Series, Book 1

Genre: YA, Paranormal

Copyright: 2008

Pages: 306

Rating: 3 / 5

Synopsis: Zara White suspects there's a freaky guy semi-stalking her. She's also obsessed with phobias. And it's true, she hasn't exactly been herself since her stepfather died. But exiling her to shivery Maine to live with her grandmother? That seems a bit extreme. The move is supposed to help her stay sane...but Zara's pretty sure her mom just can't deal with her right now.
She couldn't be more wrong. Turns out the semi-stalker is not a figment of Zara's overactive imagination. In fact, he's still following her, leaving behind an eerie trail of gold dust. There's something not right - not human - in this sleepy Maine town, and all signs point to Zara.
In this creepy, compelling breakout novel, Carrie Jones delivers romance, suspense, and a creature you never thought you"d have to fear

Review:

"It's hard to save the world when you can't save yourself"
— Carrie Jones (Need)

I picked up Need after reading Alaine's awesome review of the book at her blog here. Need is a new age YA book with a dark twist to everything you knew about pixies. Zara has been on auto-pilot mode every since her step father died and to get her back to the land of the living, her mother sends her off to cold cold Maine to live with her step-Grandmother. Still grieving for her step-dad, Zara views her mothers packing her off as a betrayal, and she now has to deal with cold climate and a new school and environment. This is made easy with a hot Nick Colt and an over-achieving Ian, both of whom immediately vie for Zaras attentions. There's new friends to be made in the hyper-bubbly Issy and geeky Devyn; not to forget, no YA school story can do without the popular girl who doesn't like you from day one.

Now here's where my problems with Need begin. Everythings fine so far, and then wham!! There's a pointing man in the woods, and everybody goes weird. One internet search and library trip later, we have a growling and protective Nick, and a theory on pixies stealing boys.

I liked this book, or i really tried to. That part that got to me was how easily everyone involved just accepted the whole supernatural angle. Zara especially. No subtle easing into the supernatural world, and as interesting as the rest of the book was, it made it real hard to read without a 'did i miss a few pages of Zara's introduction to things that go bump in the night' thought in my head.

Another thing that was a bit ridiculous and well, funny, were Zara's plans about the pixies. See, the pixies need her to survive, which means they're all out to get her. Zara dearest has plans on how to escape them, capture them, and at the end imprison them with forks. Yes, forks. See why this got a bit too much from someone who has every phobia in the world?

As a YA, this is still a good book. At times unintentionally funny too. There's not much character building, very little world building, but a good story and warm characters.

And one that note, i'll leave you with this:
I back into him and blurt " But you're so cute. Werewolves aren't supposed to be cute. Vampires are, i think. They are in the movies. But the werewolves are pretty much ugly and they wear leather jackets and are all dirty with these monster sideburns"
Edward would be proud of you Zara, although Jacob might have a lil something to say

And Then He Kissed Her by Laura Lee Guhrke

2010-05-07T10:00:00.002+08:00

Series: Girl Bachelors, Book 1

Genre: Historical-Regency

Copyright: 2007

Pages: 375

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Synopsis: An expert in etiquette, Emma takes her pristine reputation most seriously. But the devilish Lord Marlowe is determined to prove that some rules of proper behavior are made to be broken...

Supremely sensible Emmaline Dove wishes to share her etiquette expertise with London's readers, and as secretary to Viscount Marlowe, Emma knows she's in the perfect position to make her dream come true. Marlowe might be a rake with a preference for can-can dancers and an aversion to matrimony, but he is also the city's leading publisher, and Emma is convinced he's her best chance to see her work in print...until she discovers the lying scoundrel has been rejecting her manuscripts without ever reading a single page!

As a publisher, Harry finds reading etiquette books akin to slow, painful torture. Besides, he can't believe his proper secretary has the passion to write anything worth reading. Then she has the nerve to call him a liar, and even resigns without notice, leaving his business in an uproar and his honor in question! Harry decides it's time to teach Miss Dove a few things that aren't proper. But when he kisses her, he discovers that his former secretary has more passion and fire than he'd ever imagined, for one luscious taste of her lips only leaves him hungry for more...

Review:
I spent two months searching for this book, and then it spent 8 months on the shelf.
Stupid me.

And Then He Kissed Her is a wonderfully well-written historical romance. Emma Dove is the extremely prim and proper spinster past her spring who works for a rake and has hopes of publishing her own etiquette books. Viscount Marlowe is said rake, successful publisher and someone who needs his secretary to tell him where to be when and buy gifts for the ladies breezing through his door.

Until Emma realises that Marlowe will never publish her books, and decides to make some life changing decisions- like resigning without notice. In trying to get his secretary back Marlowe suddenly realises there's a lot more to her than a staid prim secretary he thought he knew, and he likes what he’s now seeing a whole lot.

There's no chemistry at all between these 2 at the beginning of the book. They're strictly employer and employee, and intend to keep it that way. Which makes the sweet interactions between them later in the book a joy to read. The romance is sweet and hot at the same time. No smut here though. Guhrke really know how to write her stuff. That scene at the chocolate store and in the parlor where Marlowe tries to seduce the virgin Emma are some of the amazingly hot scenes that’ll stay with you. Phew!!

The characters in the book are very well written. Marlowe as the sexy alpha hero has to be one of the sweetest rakes out there. This book was really about Emma though. No TSTL heroine, she knew she was good at her stuff and stuck to her guns to get what she wanted. I loved watching her battle her need to conform to society and rules against a will to live a full life of happiness. This book was a refreshing read in its plot and characters. I'm definitely picking up more Guhrke books

To Wed a Wicked Earl by Olivia Parker

2010-05-03T04:01:00.000+08:00

Genre: Historical Romance

Copyright: 2004

Pages: 336
Rating: 4 / 5

Synopsis:
He's on the hunt for a bride . . .
Adam Faramond, Earl of Rothbury, needs to find a wife—immediately!—or his beloved grandmother will leave him penniless. But Adam, an unrepentant rake, would reform for only one woman, the woman he's lusted after—and loved—for years. It's rather unfortunate, then, that Miss Charlotte Greene would never consent to be the blushing bride of a rogue . . . or so he thinks.
Charlotte believes that the earl, the only man whose touch leaves her trembling, would never want a woman like her. Weary of her wallflower ways, Charlotte decides that a friendship with the earl just might give her the excitement she desires. Keeping their true feelings hidden, she and Adam plan a sham ceremony to placate the dowager. But when the "marriage of convenience" takes an unexpected turn, will Charlotte and her wicked earl finally reveal their irresistible, unforgettable love—and delight in a lifetime of passion?

Review:
I absolutely loved this book.

A notorious rake in love with a wall flower but unwilling to let her know. Instead he lets the world think he wants another woman. She's been in love with her childhood rescuer who woos her and then chooses another for marriage.

They decide to be 'friends' and help each other get to the person they're pretending they want. But in the end, as the wicked earl puts it "one day or another, one of us would start having…thoughts about the other" After all, there's such a thing as a man and a woman never being able to become friends because lust gets in the way.
Rothbury has always wanted Charlotte, and for her soon her friendly feelings start to be something more. And a wily old grandmother helps them find the way

Did i mention i loved this book. A lot of the book is from Rothbury's perspective and its charming to read how he's falling for the shy girl who everyone ignores at the balls and despite himself can't stay away from her. Charlotte comes across as a real innocent shy spinster. A bit quirky, obviously unaware of her beauty and sometimes daring - like when she kisses Rothbury for the first time.

Its a quick 3 hr read, don't miss it. I know i'll definitely be reading more of Olivia Parker

Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon

2010-05-02T02:02:00.000+08:00

Series: Dark-Hunter, Book 2

Genre: Paranormal

Copyright: 2004

Pages: 336

Rating: 3.5 / 5

Synopsis:
Dear Reader,

Have you ever wanted to know what it's like to be immortal? To journey through the night stalking the evil that preys on humans? To have unlimited wealth, unlimited power?

That is my existence, and it is dark and dangerous. I play hero to thousands, but am known to none. And I love every minute of it. Or so I thought until one night when I woke up handcuffed to my worst nightmare: a conservative woman in a button-down shirt. Or in Amanda's case, buttoned all the way up to her chin. She's smart, sexy, witty, and wants nothing to do with the paranormal---in other words, me.

My attraction to Amanda Devereaux goes against everything I stand for. Not to mention the last time I fell in love it cost me not only my human life, but also my very soul. Yet every time I look at her, I find myself wanting to try again. Wanting to believe that love and loyalty do exist. Even more disturbing, I find myself wondering if there's any way a woman like Amanda can love a man whose battle scars run deep, and whose heart was damaged by a betrayal so savage that he's not sure it will ever beat again.

Kyrian of Thrace

Review:

Night Pleasures is a good book to read if you're just starting out with the paranormal genre. Simple, quick and pretty quirky.

Amanda Deveraux is an accountant in a family of witches, vampire hunters and psychics. She likes her life normal and supernatural-free. Until she gets mistaken for her twin vamp slaying sister and gets handcuffed to a gorgeous blond vampire. Kyrian of Thrace was a fearsome general who fought the Roman empire. Now he's a Dark Hunter - a soulless creature of the night fighting the soul sucking Daimons who prey on humanity. Betrayed by the woman he loved, he's lived centuries with the pain of the betrayal and execution at the hands of the Romans, with only his Dark Hunter duties as his guide.

These two individuals are as far apart as it can get, and yet through Kenyon's quirky and sometimes cheesy lines, you'll see them fall for each other. Now there's a super Daimon on the loose and he has it out for both of em. Kyrian has to keep Amanda safe while trying not to fall for her at the same time.

I loved the lil bits of history in this book. Although the second book in the series, this is actually where the series begins. So if you haven't read book 1, Fantasy Lover, it won't really matter.
This is a good book to pass the time. I didn't really connect with the characters since a lot of their situations were a bit hard to be believable, not to mention the monologues are a bit sappy. The rest of the supporting cast is pretty dramatic and entertaining tho.

There's some pretty good scenes in the book that you'll like, like Amanda's attempts to erase the memories of Kyrian's torture and execution. There's also a sense of bonding among the Dark Hunter's that Kenyon manages to push through, which is why i'll probably pick up the next book to see where this series goes.

You can read the review of the first book, Fantasy Lover here

Promises Linger by Sarah McCarty

2010-04-06T17:25:00.000+08:00

Series: Promises, Book 1

Genre: Romance

Copyright: 2004

Pages: 422

Rating: 3.5 / 5

Synopsis:
1868 Wyoming Territory
Elizabeth Coyote will do anything, anything at all, to save the ranch she loves, including marrying Asa MacIntyre, a broad shouldered, lean hipped silver eyed gunslinger with a ruthless reputation for getting the job done.
Asa dreams of a place of his own, a wife, and the respect that comes with both. Marrying Elizabeth may have started as a means to an end, but nothing in Asa's wildest dreams prepares him for the excitement of unleashing the carnal woman beneath his wife's prim and proper exterior.

Review:
A surprisingly sweet story, i expected total erotica considering the novel cover and instead got a pretty good story.
A hard ass woman who wants to keep her marriage impersonal and business-like and a handsome warrior man looking for respectability and a family he's never had. I wish i had myself an Asa McIntyre.

Definitely going to read the next series in the book
(yes yes, the review is shorter than the synopsis, but together they pretty much say everything that needs to be said)

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

2010-04-06T10:00:00.002+08:00

Genre: Young Adult

Copyright: 2009

Pages: 470

Rating: 4 / 5

Synopsis:
What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all—looks, popularity, the perfect boyfriend. Friday, February 12th should be just another day in her charmed life. Instead, it’s her last. The catch: Samantha still wakes up the next morning. In fact, she re-lives the last day of her life seven times, until she realizes that by making even the slightest changes, she may hold more power than she had ever imagined.

Review:
Before I Fall is the kinda story that will stay with you for a long time after. Like most YA novels, this one is the story of Samantha Kings, a typical high school teen who has it all - the popular clique in school, the jockey boyfriend, and a happening life. And then it all ends one day in a tragic accident - only Samantha wakes up in the morning to realise she's reliving the same day all over again.

We see her going from denial to rebellion and anger and finally to acceptance of what should be over the seven times she relives the same day - and along the way she gains perspective on the people in her life, and tries to change things for the better.

You can picture the characters in this story real well, most probably cause we've all known some of them while growing up - the pretty girls, the football jocks, the wanna-bes, the nerds n geeks. Lauren's easy and free flowing writing makes it real easy to like this book and feel a part of it.

There were times i empathised with Sam, and times i wondered what the hell Sam was up to. I'm not sure i agreed with everything she did - even when she did apparently get it right. As much as i loved Sam and Kent together, for example, i wasn't happy with Sam's decision to change Kent's life the way she did. But that's the hallmark of a good book - it makes you think and debate.

As a YA, this one covers the usual sex, drugs and alcohol story..not to miss out peer pressure too. But it doesn't preach and, i think, handles these topics very well. The ending leaves you a bit surprised - i completely didn't expect it to happen that way. If you wanna know what i mean by that, you know what you have to do - go pick up this book. You won't be disappointed

Mine to Possess by Nalini Singh

2010-04-01T17:07:00.001+08:00

Series: Psy-Changeling, Book 4

Genre: Paranormal

Copyright: 2008

Pages: 352

Rating: 3.5 / 5

Synopsis
A ghost returns from a leopard changeling's past, making him question everything-even his base animal instincts...
Clay Bennett is a powerful DarkRiver sentinel, but he grew up in the slums with his human mother, never knowing his changeling father. As a young boy without the bonds of Pack, he tried to stifle his animal nature. He failed...and committed the most extreme act of violence, killing a man, and lost his best friend, Talin, in the bloody aftermath. Everything good in him died the day he was told that she, too, was dead.
Talin McKade barely survived a childhood drenched in bloodshed and terror. Now a new nightmare stalks her—-the street children she works to protect are disappearing and turning up dead. Determined to keep them safe, she unlocks the darkest secret in her heart and returns to ask the help of the strongest man she knows...
Clay lost Talin once. He will not let her go again and hungers to possess her with a clawing need born of the leopard within. As they race to save the innocent Clay and Talin must face the violent truths of their past... or lose everything that ever mattered

Review:
Book 5 in the ever interesting Psy Changeling series, Mine to Possess is the story of Clay and Talin . Clay and Tally grew up together, and when Clay killed Tally's foster father, the effect seeing her best friends' beastly nature scarred Tally and she ran. (no typo there, I don’t think Tally was scared - scarred is what I meant)

Clay is now a sentinel in the Dark-River leopard pack and Tally is back in his life needing his help to rescue street children being kidnapped and killed. But Clay wont be content with only helping her and letting her leave. His mate is back in his life, and he intends to keep her with him.

I loved the storyline. These two obviously loved each other, but there's been so much pain and misery in Talin's life, it hard for her to open up to Clay again. Singh hasn’t had this much sadness in her books before - but thankfully there's Clay. The man and the animal know they need Talin, and will do anything it takes to break through her defenses so that she accepts they will be together.

The other couples and characters from the previous books make their appearance in this book. As always, Singh's writing brings out the love and feeling of family among these Changelings, and you feel a part of it.

The other smaller plots about the Psy councilors, and general progress in everyone else's life makes interesting reading too, and I'm curious to know where this plot is leading to. We got more about the ghost in the net - I think part of why I'm reading is only to find out who it is. There's also a sneak peak into the next couple (or so I hope) and if I've guessed right a certain Mr. Dorian (yum) may be getting his own book after all.

As always the story begins with a lil bit from the past when the Psy were just embracing Silence, and for me that what really gets me involved in this series.

All in all, a great book. Different from the rest in that Tally was a love from the past and yet somehow connected to the psy changeling battle. This break from a psy-changeling pair came at a good time. I would have been a case of same formula - different couple names otherwise.

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading?

2010-03-15T12:36:00.004+08:00

Been a while since i participated in this meme. I've finally gotten back to reading enough that writing a post about it makes sense. Here goes:

Read Last Week:

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick Click on the link for the review

Fire by Kristin Cashore Click on the link for the review

Archangel's Kiss by Nalini Singh - awesome book. Elena and Raphael are my new favourite couple

Mine to Possess by Nalini Singh - book 4 of the Psy-Changeling Series, these books are fast getting addicting. Reviews to come soon

Reading this week:

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver - Interesting so far. Love the book cover. I'm reading this for the upcoming YA week on Royal Reviews.

Lament - Maggie Stiefvater. My sis loves this book and has been nagging me to read it for weeks now. I loved Shiver, and if this is anything like it i know i'll love this one too.

Have a great week ahead. Happy Reading

Fire by Kristin Cashore

2010-03-12T10:00:00.001+08:00

Series: The Seven Kingdoms Trilogy, Book 2

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy

Copyright: 2009

Pages: 352

Rating: 5 / 5

Synopsis:

Fire, Graceling's prequel-ish companion book, takes place across the mountains to the east of the seven kingdoms, in a rocky, war-torn land called the Dells.

Beautiful creatures called monsters live in the Dells. Monsters have the shape of normal animals: mountain lions, dragonflies, horses, fish. But the hair or scales or feathers of monsters are gorgeously colored-- fuchsia, turquoise, sparkly bronze, iridescent green-- and their minds have the power to control the minds of humans.

Seventeen-year-old Fire is the last remaining human-shaped monster in the Dells. Gorgeously monstrous in body and mind but with a human appreciation of right and wrong, she is hated and mistrusted by just about everyone, and this book is her story.

Wondering what makes it a companion book/prequel? Fire takes place 30-some years before Graceling and has one cross-over character with Graceling, a small boy with strange two-colored eyes who comes from no-one-knows-where, and who has a peculiar ability that Graceling readers will find familiar and disturbing...

Review:

After the awesome debut that was Graceling, I wanted to get my hands on anything that was Kristin Cashore. And the wait for Fire was well worth it. Fire is the prequel to Graceling, in that is set 30 years before and has one cross over character that you’ll recognize at once. The book is based in the lands beyond the Seven Kingdoms, where there are creatures called monsters who are beautifully coloured and can mesmerize you. Fire is the last of the human monsters, but one who understands the effect of her beauty on others, and who understands the difference between right and wrong.

The book is based in a land at war with its neighbours and a kingdom shaped by the late king, and his trusted advisor Cansrel, who was Fire's father. Fire tries to use her monster powers to help with the war when asked. She struggles to use her powers now, when she's been trying not to all this while, and the attraction she feels for the king’s brother isn’t helping.

This book, for me, was a lot better than Graceling, and I absolutely loved Graceling. It is a lot more mature, and I felt it covered a lot more emotions and situations. Each character has its own distinct personality, and you'll feel for all of them. Nash, the weak-minded king smitten by Fire; Brigan his stoic brother; Brocker, the man who brought up Fire and Archer, her first lover and friend. I loved em all.

I loved Fire as a character. Gorgeous in body, she was gorgeous in mind as well. She cared about those around her, and despite the brave face she showed the world, had her own little insecurities. Cashore has created a breathtaking world, with vivid characters and an even paced storyline. You will feel a part of this book while reading it, and live through all of Fire's experiences. You'll love the time with Brigan, and your heart will go out to Archer.

Go. Read.

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

2010-03-10T20:56:00.000+08:00

Genre: Paranormal, Young Adult

Pages: 391

Published: 2009

Rating: 3.5 / 5

Synopsis:
For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her...until Patch comes along.

With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment, but after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure whom to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is far more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel.

For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life.

Review:
I've been looking forward to reading this book since last year. Mainly because of the awesome cover and all the hype surrounding it when the book initially released.

Hush Hush (great name for a book, btw) is the story of a Nora, a seemingly average girl and the strange boy in school - Patch (any Bella-Edward flashbacks?)
The paranormal or fantasy aspect of the book comes in the form of Fallen Angels.
I found the story line pretty intriguing - fallen angels haven't been covered much in novels before. Patch is depicted as mysterious, a wee bit creepy and obviously hot. I read most of this book to find out more about him and the story around him - a bit like Nora was doing actually.
Nora, and I'm sorry for being so blunt, but Nora is downright boring - the quiet studious girl who doesn’t get in any trouble, and looks out for everyone.

The book had a real good storyline, but the characters weren't fleshed out as much as I would have liked them to be. I feel the author could have given them a whole lot more depth. It would have made the reader feel a part of the story. For me, there were a lot of parts missing in the book. The story did not cover why Patch and Nora liked each other, They just seemed to. It did not explain, for example, what made Patch fall for Nora. We do know how and why he chooses her, but nothing as to why or what he likes in her, specially since i couldn't see what was so special in her.. And considering his dark and mysterious bad boy nature, I most definitely would have liked more lines on Patch.

There are some great lines in the book and at times I found myself laughing at their conversations and situations (mostly at 4 in the morning, so I'm sure I woke the neighbors up). I will most definitely want to read the next edition, if there is one. I like the idea of the fallen angels and the mystery behind them.

All in all, this was a great book. Although it could have been so much more. Very enjoyable, great lines, and awesome cover. My cribbing aside you will want to read this book for the concept and feel good factor. Good for a Saturday afternoon.

First Drop of Crimson - Jeaniene Frost

2010-03-02T19:26:00.002+08:00

Series: Night Huntress World, Book 1

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Pages: 371

Copyright: 2010

Rating: 3 / 5

Synopsis:

The night is not safe for mortals. Denise MacGregor knows all too well what lurks in the shadows - her best friend is half-vampire Cat Crawfield - and she has already lost more than the average human could bear. But her family's dark past is wrapped in secrets and shrouded in darkness - and a demon shapeshifter has marked Denise as prey. Now her survival depends on an immortal who craves a taste of her.
He is Spade, a powerful, mysterious vampire who has walked the earth for centuries and is now duty-bound to protect this endangered, alluring human - even if it means destroying his own kind. Denise may arouse his deepest hungers, but Spade knows he must fight his urge to have her as they face the demon nightmare together...
Because once the first drop of crimson falls, they will both be lost

Review:
I had really high hopes for this book. Considering how much I liked Spade as a secondary character in the Night Huntress novels, i really hoped his book would be great. But alas, FDOC is nothing but mediocre stuff...good, but mediocre.

One of Denise's ancestors made a deal with a demon and then reneged on it. The demon wants what was due to him, but since he can't find the ancestor, he's getting Denise to do his dirty work..He's branded her with some Demon marks, so she's got some demon powers (like being able to run real fast, extra strength and eating a lot and such) She needs a vampire's help to find said ancestor..enter Spade.

Problems...Where do i start?
How about the god awful cover. Seriuosly? The Spade in my mind was so much more yummier that the ugly ass guy on the cover. I read this as a free e-book, and i have to say i'd never buy the book based on that cover.

Then there's Denise. Oh Denise.. what do i say. I did not like Frost's depiction of her character at all..She was just this sad case who couldn't seem to do anything right and had lil spurts of courage on an off. Not a likeable heroine.Spade was a total sap too.. sigh.. if you've read the Night Huntress books you'll know he's way cooler than this book makes him out to be. Cat and Bones make an appearance here, although very brief. All in all, the villians seems to keep the plot interesting.

The storyline is actually good. It had a lot of potential and had Frost worked on the characters a bit more, would have made a great book. I really really hope she makes up with the next stand-alone novel which is based on Mencheres. I know this seems like a rant more than a review but its just that i had really high expectations and i'm a bit peeved that all this can get is 3 stars. (Part of the 3 stars is from my previous love of Spade)
Read only if you're a die hard Night Huntress fan

Reading Challenges 2010

2010-03-01T21:47:00.000+08:00

2010 is turning out to be the year of nothing-will-going-as-per-plan.
I havent had time for the blog, or to read even...but better late than never..I'm making my lists..and catching up on reviews.

The 2010 YA Reading Challenge:

I enjoyed participating in this one last year. Hosted by J. Kaye's Book Blog, there's 4 levels. I'm entering in the The Mini YA Reading Challenge – "Read 12 Young Adult novels". List to come sooooon. Click on the link for challenge info.

The 2010 100+ Reading Challenge.

I'm not so sure 100 is going to be doable (is that a word?) this year, but i'm going to give it a try.

Also hosted by the wonderful J Kaye, click on the link for more info.

2010 1st in a Series Challenge

Now hosted on Royal Reviews, there's 4 levels again. I'm going with Fascinated - "Read 6 novels that are first in a series."

2010 Fantasy Reading Challenge

Fantasy has now become by favourite genre... so i'm going all out on this one and opting for level 4: Obsessed – Read 20 Fantasy Fiction novels. I really wanted to participate in this challenge last year, but found it only towards the year end. This challenge is also hosted by the lovely ladies at Royal Reviews. I absolutely love the challenge logo.

Finish that Series Challenge

Now this is a challenge made for me. I have tons of books to read for this one. Hosted on Royal Reviews, I'm going for Addicted – Finish 5 series.

Historical Fiction Challenge

Another Royal Reviews challenge i really wanted to sign up for last year. I'm playing it safe and going with Curious – Read 3 Historical Fiction novels.

Wish I'd Read that Challenge

Another Great challenge on Royal Reviews. I'm going with Fascinated – Read 6 books for this one.

Storm Born by Richelle Mead

2010-02-11T10:00:00.005+08:00

Series: Dark Swan, Book 1
Genre: Paranormal Romance
361 pages
Published: 2008

Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blurb: Just typical. No love life to speak of for months, then all at once, every horny creature in the Otherworld wants to get in your pants...

Eugenie Markham is a powerful shaman who does a brisk trade banishing spirits and fey who cross into the mortal world. Mercenary, yes, but a girl's got to eat. Her most recent case, however, is enough to ruin her appetite. Hired to find a teenager who has been taken to the Otherworld, Eugenie comes face to face with a startling prophecy--one that uncovers dark secrets about her past and claims that Eugenie's first-born will threaten the future of the world as she knows it.

Now Eugenie is a hot target for every ambitious demon and Otherworldy ne'er-do-well, and the ones who don't want to knock her up want her dead. Eugenie handles a Glock as smoothly as she wields a wand, but she needs some formidable allies for a job like this. She finds them in Dorian, a seductive fairy king with a taste for bondage, and Kiyo, a gorgeous shape-shifter who redefines animal attraction. But with enemies growing bolder and time running out, Eugenie realizes that the greatest danger is yet to come, and it lies in the dark powers that are stirring to life within her...

Review:

Eugenie Markham is a powerful Shaman who banishes otherworldly creatures from our world for hire. She sends these fey, or gentry, back to their realm or to the underworld, if they’re too annoying. Things suddenly change and Eugenie finds herself being propositioned and attacked (at the same time) by the gentry – not to mention they know her real name and things she did not know bout herself. These new revelations force her to realise that the world isn’t as she’s always believed it to be. The gentry she has always been fighting against may just be her only source of answers.

This was an amazing read. You know its Richelle Mead from the moment in begins. Storm Born is the first in Richelle Mead’s Dark Swan series. Just like in the VA series, Storm Born has multifaceted characters you’re not sure whether to like or to throw a book at. Mead really has this ability to make the heroines really annoying towards the beginning..I almost didn’t read this one cause Eugenie got on my nerves, but then it got better.. a whole lot better...and I’m glad I stuck it out.

There are two love interests in this book, and with only book one to go by, I’m not sure where the story will lead or who is better for Eugenie. There’s the sexy kitsune fox shape-shifter Kiyo, and the fey King Dorian who gets very serious about his elaborate rope work. While I wouldn’t want to sway your opinion on who’s the better guy, let me just say that I’m offering to keep Dorian if Eugenie doesn’t want him.

The other characters in the book are pretty well drawn out too. There’s Tim, the fake Native American and Will, a paranoid conspiracy theorist…but best of all, there’s Volusian the ghost who was kinda like Eugenie’s voice of reason and at the same time wanted to kill her and constantly reminded her so in very elaborate words.

The world building in this book is great and easy to follow. The story has a good pace, and a riveting enough ending that you’ll want to have the second book in hand when this one is done. This was one of those books where I ended up having a character debate with myself on the motivations of the different characters in this book. Eugenie at times seemed like she was controlled by those around her (although she does manage to hold her own pretty well) Kiyo and Dorian, and just about everyone in the book actually seems to have their own agenda, and its fascinating wondering how it will all end. I count this as one of the author’s talents; you don’t usually come across books where there are so many shades of grey.

Go ahead and get a copy of this book, especially if you are an Urban Fantasy fan. But do remember to have book 2, Thorn Queen, at hand.

Loretta Chase - Lord of Scoundrels

2010-02-01T20:06:00.002+08:00

Series: Scoundrels, Book 3
Genre: Romance
384 pages
Published: 1995
Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blurb:
DETERMINED LADY
Tough-minded Jessica Trent's sole intention is to free her nitwit brother from the destructive influence of Sebastian Ballister, the notorious Marquess of Dain. She never expects to desire the arrogant, amoral cad. And when Dain's reciprocal passion places them in a scandalously compromising, and public, position, Jessica is left with no choice but to seek satisfaction...

LORD OF SCOUNDRELS
Damn the minx for tempting him, kissing him...and then for forcing him to salvage reputation! Lord Dain can't wait to put the infuriating bluestocking in her place -- and in some amorous position. And if this means marriage, so be it -- though Sebastian is less than certain he can continue to remain aloof...and steel his heart to the sensuous, head strong lady's considerable charms.

Review: Wow. I haven't had so much fun reading a romance novel in a long time. I absolutely loved this book.

If you like believable tortured heroes and witty heroines, good dialogue and a storyline that will keep you up till 5 in the morning, like it did me, then this is the book for you

Sebastian Dane had a horrible childhood - his mother left him, his father ignored him at best, and he grew up unloved and believing he was ugly. Classic symptoms for the cold hearted notorious rake he's turned out to be. There are a lot of references where he's called lord Beelzebub - I think that should explain a bit.

Jessica Trent has arrived in Paris to rescue her nitwit of a brother from the influence of Dain. He's ruining himself and the family finances trying to emulate the much richer Marquess. Things don’t turn out quite as Jess imagined them - she's falls in lust with him. Dain never deals with respectable women, he finds no point in wasting his time with them. However, Jess is an entirely different story. Thankfully, their attraction to each other doesn’t stop the witty repartee between the two.

I don’t really want to give much away from this book - there are twists and turns I'd never imagined in a regency novel. I usually find the intelligent independent heroines pretty annoying. Jess, however, is very well written and a joy to read. I loved Dain from the beginning, even when he was a hopeless debauchee. Reading his reluctance to bed Jessica and fight against his feelings for her was a real treat and you'll love his transformation into a caring and loving husband.

This is my first Loretta Chase book, and I'll definitely be reading more. The story flows well and left no loose ends. It’s a bit like reading a mystery novel, where you don’t know what'll happen next. This one is a keeper for me. Now on to starting with the beginning of this series.

What are you reading on Mondays?

2010-01-04T14:47:00.000+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by J. Kaye's Book Blog. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week. Head on over there to see what everyone else is reading

It seems like ages since I've last blogged and the withdrawal pains have not been good

So I'm very happy to be back

I didn’t expect to have so much work in India after two years of what I now consider a siesta in Singapore..work has finally gotten to a manageable level leaving me enough time to get back to all those books waiting on my shelf..

Read:
>> Fire by Kristen Cashore : amazing read.. Review will be up soon

>> Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase : I'm still picturing the banter between Sebastian and Jess - this one is a definite keeper. Look out for my review on Royal Reviews in the coming week

This week:
Bound to Shadows by Keri Arthur : Waited 6 months for this book to release. Had to keep this book on hold due to work..but I'm getting back to it as soon as I can

Have a great week and an awesome year ahead!!

The 2010 100+ Reading Challenge - WIP

2010-01-01T10:00:00.003+08:00

The 2010 100+ Reading Challenge.

This one is my favouritest challenge evah!! I've sorted here by genre

Romance /Historical / Erotic Romance

Fantasy / YA

Paranormal / Urban Fantasy / Young Adult

The Countdown Challenge 2010 - WIP

2010-01-01T10:00:00.001+08:00

The goal of this challenge is to read the number of books first published in a given year that corresponds to the last digit of each year in the 2000s — 10 books from 2010, 9 books from 2009, 8 books from 2008, etc. The total number of books required, therefore, is 55.

Challenge lasts from 9/9/09 through 10/10/10. It is hosted by 3M at 1morechapter. Head on there for more info

The Countdown Challenge 2010 (20 / 55) click on the links for reviews

2010

1. First Drop of Crimson - Jeaniene Frost
2. Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris

2009

1. Shiver - Maggie Stiefvater
2. On the Edge - Ilona Andrews
3. Dime Store Magic - Kelley Armstrong
4. Covet - J.R. Ward
5. Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick6. Fire by Kristin Cashore
7. Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

2008

1. A Rush of Wings - Adrian Phoenix
2. In the Blood - Adrian Phoenix
3. Storm Born by Richelle Mead
4. Mine to Possess by Nalini Singh
5. Need by Carrie Jones

2007
1. And Then He Kissed Her by Laura Lee Guhrke

2006
1. Touch the Dark - Karen Chance

2004
1. Stolen - Kelley Armstrong
2. Promises Linger by Sarah McCarty
3. Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon
4. To Wed a Wicked Earl by Olivia Parker

Covet (Fallen Angels, #1) - J.R. Ward

2009-11-23T01:10:00.000+08:00

Covet (Fallen Angels, #1) - J.R. Ward

Genre: Paranormal

Pages: 474

Rating: 4/ 5

Blurb:
Redemption isn’t a word Jim Heron knows much about - his specialty is revenge, and to him, sin is all relative. But everything changes when he becomes a fallen angel and is charge with saving the souls of seven people from the seven deadly sins. And failure is not an option.

Vin DiPietro long ago sold his soul to his business, and he’s good with that
—until fate intervenes in the form of a tough-talking, Harley-riding, self-professed savior. But then he meets a woman who will make him question his destiny, his sanity, and his heart—and he has to work with a fallen angel to win her over and redeem his own soul.

Review:
Very very entertaining. If there’s one thing you can be sure of when you begin a Ward book, its that you will want to read it at one go and you will be thoroughly entertained. This book did not disappoint. Covet is set in the same world as Ward's famous Black Dagger Brotherhood (BDB) series, but it is a completely different story and you don’t need to read the BDB books to enjoy this one.

This is basically a battle of good vs. evil and the choices we make in life, all neatly packaged in Ward’s typical writing style of snarky urban slang dosed with lots of male bonding.

I'll try not to give away much of the plot, the blurb explains it all. Jim Heron is a carpenter with a past filled with violence and death - now he's dead and charged with saving the souls of seven people. The fate of all things good in this world and the next depend on him successfully completing this mission. Most of the story is from his point of view, and the stuff in Jim's head really makes interesting reading."You can do it. You're a carpenter. You build things and you rebuild things. Lives are constructions just the same."

This book is about the first soul Jim has to save - his boss from his construction site who Jim doesn't really like. Or in Jim's words: "..Was he going to have to get this silk-suited, M6-driving, misogynistic m******f****** to renounce everything material and turn his ass into a monk?" Vin diPietro, soul # 1, is guilty of avarice / greed. He's handsome, rich, self-centered, sexy and insanely driven towards all things materialistic. You'll enjoy his journey from anti-hero to realising the important things in his life with help from Jim and his friends. Vin has some horror-inducing 'gifts' which add to the books dark side. His salvation also comes by the way of Marie Terese - a woman on the run from her past and trying to make ends meet. We met Marie Terese in Lover Avenged - the 7th BDB book where she works as a prostitute at ZeroSum. Ward does a good job with explaining her life and tough choices, and you can't help feeling for this woman. The romance between these two is just beginning, but the sex is really hot - with special mention to a very hot shower scene.

The other characters in this book really enhance the story. I love the concept of the 'fallen angels', and the angels in this book are unlike any you've read before. I can't write this review without mentioning the guest appearances from the BDB characters - there's Trez, the moor from Lover Avenged who owns the club Marie Terese works at, detective de la Cruz, and appearances from 2 of the Brothers- a yellow-eyed beautiful-haired Brother on his way to an AA meeting and another with usually seen wearing a Boston red Sox cap.

So despite all the gushing, why the four stars and not five? Because Ward's unique writing style works against her at places. At times I felt that the angsty writing was a bit forced and it definitely got to be a bit too much in places. I felt that simple normal vocabulary would have worked better and enhanced the overall effect of her writing style. My other issue with this book was the easy acceptance by some of the characters of what they're being told no matter how weird. Yup, it is PNR, but Jim accepting so easily that he was dead and hardly asking any questions about this task he was given didn't sit well with me - its not like something like this happens every day. It seemed like the angels basically talk and guilt him into saving the world by reminding him of his mother (small spoiler, I know..but I didn't really spoil anything, I promise).

But don’t let my cribbing keep you from this book, it didn’t stop me from enjoying it. I read this book at one go - happily wondering where the story is going to lead and what's going to happen next. Pick this book up if you want a refreshing change from the normal paranormal stuff out there and also a satisfying good vs. evil story. Jim has six other souls to save, so you can be sure I'm definitely going to read the next one. Crave the second Fallen Angels book comes out next year.

In the Blood - Adrian Phoenix

2009-10-25T11:20:00.000+08:00

Series: The Maker's Song, Book 2
Genre: Urban Fantasy
352 pages
Published: 2008
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Review:
In the Blood picks up where A Rush of Wings ended. Dante the enigmatic rockstar vampire and Heather the FBI agent had tackled a serial killer and uncovered bits and pieces of Dante's childhood in the previous book.

Dante now knows a lot more about his past, the role of the Government branch and details about this real family (trying not to give away spoilers here) - he's much more than a vampire, and he doesn't yet know what it all entails. He's met up with Heather in Seattle, who has her own problems with her job, family and a cold case that's a touch too personal.
Meanwhile, the government guys are trying to clean up their experiment gone wrong and everyone involved in it - that includes Heather and Dante. Then there's one doctor still left from his childhood experiments who has some tricks up his sleeve to trigger Dante into sociopathic heaven, a pair of crazy twins with their own plan for world domination and an assortment of other psychos to add to the fun that make up the montage of villainous characters.

And that doesn't even include the Bold and the Beautiful drama going on in Gehenna with all the Fallen and their politics and ambition to control Dante.

There really are too many things going on in this book - not to many to confuse you after the first 20-odd pages, but i don't think I've ever read a series that has so many bad guys wanting a piece of the pie - specially when said pie is the guy and not the chick in the book.

Just like the previous book, In the Blood is intense and dark. There isn't much in terms of character development from book 1 and i had a lot of questions that were left unanswered and seem more like plot holes to me than 'coming soon in book 3'. There's a bunch of new characters in this book that will keep you occupied though - Annie, Heathers bipolar sister, her useless father, new set of villains, Dante's band members..they help keep it interesting. My favourite character is still Von, the nomad-turned vampire llygad

This book is definitely more gripping that A Rush of Wings. I read it at one go and couldn't put it down. Mostly because i really wanted to know what would happen next

Verdict: Read this one only if you liked a Rush of Wings and are comfortable with Adrian's writing style and jumble of characters because there's more of that in In the Blood. I liked both books and i look forward to book 3. Beneath the Skin releases December 29th this year.

They made me... add to the Greedy TBR pile

2009-10-24T23:15:00.000+08:00

This is my weekly post to mention the book reviews and recommendations that have swayed me to wanting to go out and buy these books and so adding them to my TBR pile. It'll help to keep tabs on where i got the recommendations from when i finally do read the book. Aaaaand I think its good to spread the word on the good reviews out there. So feel free to use the icon and adopt the idea, and leave a comment on the post so i can see what you've added too

Discoveries:
>> Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen. See the review at Royal Reviews

>> The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker by Leanna Renee Hieber. See the review at Angieville

>> Once a Witch by Carolyn MacCullough. See the review at J. Kaye's Book Blog

>> The Girl From Foreign by Sadia Shepard. See the review at S. Krishna's Books

>> Ruined by Paula Morris. See the review at S. Krishna's Books

>> The Astonishing Adventures of Fanboy and Goth Girl by Barry Lyga. See the review at J. Kaye's Book Blog

I haven't caught up on all the reviews on my favourite sites yet..so i guess next weeks post will have quite a number..

A Rush of Wings - Adrian Phoenix

2009-10-21T00:00:00.002+08:00

Series: The Maker's Song, Book 1
Genre: Urban Fantasy
416 pages
Published: 2008

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a fairly dark and different paranormal. I say different because there's so many typical vampire novels out there. In a way, A Rush of Wings is one as well, but it has twists and its characters, for a change, aren't the goody vamps changed by a mortal woman or either only good or bad. There's shades of grey in this book, and it'll make you question the meaning of justice, and how different people interpret what is right or wrong, just like it made Heather think.

Dante is a rock star and almost a god to his goth followers. He's also a vampire surrounded by supernaturals who he cares for and care for him. Leather and latex clad, multiple rings, typical goth make up, Cajun French speaking heartthrob. Dante is a conflicted character that takes a while to figure out. At first, he seems like a rebelling kid out to defy everyone and kissing everyone in sight. But then you see him struggling against himself and his pain and his memories and a lot of things start making sense. Who is Dante and what are the painful memories that keep rising within him.? This story connects a serial killer with Dante's past.

And enter lady love. Heather Wallace is a FBI agent chasing said serial killer who ends up being sucked into Dante's world while trying to find the connection between the killer and Dante, and protect him from all and sundry including an internal cover-up that could put him in danger. Heather doesn't have as many facets to her personality as the other characters in this book have. She's a competent FBI agent with her own nightmares and that's about it. The attraction between them isn't really explained very well, but then there's not much romance in this book, its Urban Fantasy more than Paranormal.

I loved the other characters in this book a lot. Lucien, the Fallen, who guards Dante and has his own secrets is one of the more interesting characters who will you reluctantly warm up to; or atleast understand. Then there's Von, and the other vampires who live with Dante. The serial killer and other villainy characters (there's quite a few, but at no point does it get confusing) are pretty villainy in their behaviour, and you'll enjoy them too. There's new concepts in this book i haven't read before - about angels and god and psycho killers.

This is my first Adrian Phoenix book, and i like her writing style. I hope its only this first book that suffers from mini-first book syndrome. I do love her Cajun French and lyrics thrown in. Give this book a chance. And give it time to suck you in as well. At the end, it might not be what you're used to reading, but you won't regret the time spent reading it. I'm off to read the next book, In the Blood

What are you reading on Mondays?

2009-10-19T23:45:00.000+08:00

My mom is here from India to help me pack and more. Thank God for mothers, or I'd never get anything done. This week has been full of contacting movers and packers, shopping till the stores close and they ask us to leave and general franctic headless chicken running around. Its going to be like this for another 2 weeks. I can't wait to get back to India.

Reading this week: I only managed to read 2 books this week, but they were awesome reads. I also finished the 100+ Reading Challenge hosted by J Kaye with my review of Shiver. Click on the links below to see my reviews

>> On the Edge - Ilona Andrews 4/5 First book of a series, and my first Andrews book, will definitely be reading more of her

>> Shiver - Maggie Stiefvater 5++ / 5 GO READ THIS BOOK

Reading this week:

Not reading anything at the moment, But i will start these for my Goodreads challenge:

>> A Rush of Wings - Adrian Phoenix

>> Haunted - Kelley Armstrong

Wishlist / Discovered last week:

See my new weekly post with the scoop on the great reviews out there this past week. I'm gonna make this a saturday post called They made me... add to the Greedy TBR pile

Quote for the week: Since there's so much to do this week, with the packing and moving:

"Let's save tomorrow's troubles for tomorrow." - Patricia Briggs (Raven's Shadow)

Happy Reading

100+ Reading Challenge Completed

2009-10-19T21:32:00.001+08:00

Phew finally finished this one. I didn't realise till Alaine pointed it out in her post that we didn't have to review all the books we read for this challenge. But since i was only a couple reviews away anyway, figured i might as well continue as before.
Here's the list, a lot of these are Young Adult or cross-genre but I've just clubbed them together under other genres. My favourites for this year have a ** next to them

General Fiction / Contemporary

Romance /Historical / Erotic Romance

Thriller-Mystery

Fantasy

Paranormal / Young Adult

J. Kaye, thank you for hosting this challenge. I made this one of my personal targets for this year after signing up for the challenge - so i could get back to reading, something I've always loved doing but had put on the back-burner for the past couple of years. I loved and completely enjoyed myself, and this challenge was step one to my reading challenge obsession. I've now read approx 230 books this year so far ...and there's 2 more months to go

Shiver - Maggie Stiefvater

2009-10-19T17:02:00.004+08:00

Series: The Wolves of Mercy Falls, Book 1
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult
392 pages
Published: 2009
My Rating: 5++ / 5 stars

Blurb: For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf--her wolf--is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human . . . until the cold makes him shift back again.
Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human--or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever.

Review:
Shiver is a beautiful, poignant that did give me the shivers at times. The nice kind of shivers.

Grace lives in Mercy Falls with her parents who missed their classes to parental school and are more like hippies who bunk with Grace in the same house. Despite the lack of any parental support, she's independent and confident.

"I’m raising myself" she says…"It seemed like you ought to pick the sort of person you would be, no matter what your parents were like."

Grace has a thing for the wolves in Mercy Falls. She was mauled by wolves when she was younger, and saved by one yellow eyed wolf who she now thinks of as her own wolf. For six years now she's seen the wolf watch her from the shadows, there every winter and gone every summer. Until suddenly things change when a local boy is killed and a strange boy turns up at her porch.

The yellow-eyed cute boy is none other than her wolf. But its September and getting colder every day, and Sam shouldn’t be a human but in wolf form as the cold gets nearer. He knows he will change soon, but he doesn’t want to, now that he knows Grace. He also knows this may be his last year as a human, and he wants a lot more time with the girl he's watched over for so long and is in love with.

At times Sam seems from a generation gone by, with his polite ways, shy smiles and quiet words. And his poetry.

"A boy stuffed so full of words that they spilled out of me."

One thing different that worked well in this book was Sam's vulnerability and sensitivity. Almost emo for a werewolf, while Grace the human in the relationship was almost too independent. Two different people shaped into characters by their upbringing and surroundings, and yet joined by a delicate emotion - kinship and love. The scenes in Grace's bedroom, Beck's room the first time they go there and also the candy store will have you feeling like you're really there, experiencing the moment with Sam and Grace.

Maggie Stiefvater werewolves aren't the all powerful, long lived, moon changing variety that every other PNR book on werewolves depicts. Sam explains what happens to them not in a paranormal but more a scientific way, and rather than the qualities you read in other books, reading about the lives of these wolves will make you mourn for them and their loss of humanity. I wont say more, go read to find out what I mean.

The writing is beautiful and heartbreaking. Every chapter begins with the temperature of the day since this story is tied in with the seasons and the weather.
I went through a series of emotions while reading this book. Terror for the wolves, joy for Grace and Sam, sorrow for Sam and his future with Grace, touched by the sensitivity these two show for each other and specially by Sam trying to do the right thing for Grace. But mostly from somewhere in the middle of the book, I felt real scared about how this book was going to end. But it was all worth it. This one leaves you with a warm feeling inside and one reading wont be enough.

In My Mailbox (1)

2009-10-18T16:38:00.000+08:00

In My Mailbox is hosted by The Story Siren. Click on the link to know more.

Book Sales are my biggest fear..well, no. But I do go crazy when i'm near one. I managed to restrict myself to three books yesterday, but i'm going back on Tuesday for more.

Bought:

>> An Abundance of Katherines by John Green. Been trying to get my hands on this book for ages, and they were selling it for 6 S$. Yippee

>> The Boleyn Inheritance by Philippa Gregory. Spend a minute to admire the beautiful cover. This will be my first novel by the author.

>> Black Wind (Dirk Pitt, #18) by Clive Cussler. The more Clive Cussler's I own, the happier I am.

They made me... add to the Greedy TBR pile

2009-10-18T16:06:00.002+08:00

Over the past couple of weeks I've been using the What are you reading on Mondays meme to mention the book reviews and recommendations that have swayed me to wanting to go out and buy these books and so adding them to my TBR pile.

I'm now making this into a weekly post. It'll help to keep tabs on where i got the recommendations from when i finally do read the book. Aaaaand I think its good to spread the word on the good reviews out there. So feel free to use the icon and adopt the idea, and leave a comment on the post so i can see what you've added too.Next week on, this will be posted every Saturday

Discoveries:

>> Anastasia's Secret by Susanne Dunlap. Russian history is something that has always intrigued me. See the review at Bookworming in the 21st century

>> Dreaming Anastasia by Joy Preble. Another book on the infamous Anastasia. Plus is has Baba Yaga in it. See the review at The Book Lush

>> Juliet, Naked - Nick Hornby. A dose of music and books at the same time, whats not to love. See the review at S. Krishnas Books

>> Shadowfae by Erica Hayes. Demons, succubus, incubus, love and freedom? Has it all. See the review at The Book Lush

On the Edge - Ilona Andrews

2009-10-15T17:12:00.001+08:00

Series: The Edge, Book 1
Genre: Urban Fantasy
309 pages
Published: 2009
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blurb: Rose Drayton lives on the Edge, between the world of the Broken (where people drive cars, shop at Wal-Mart, and magic is a fairy tale) and the Weird (where blueblood aristocrats rule, changelings roam, and the strength of your magic can change your destiny). Only Edgers like Rose can easily travel from one world to the next, but they never truly belong in either.
Rose thought if she practiced her magic, she could build a better life for herself. But things didn't turn out how she planned, and now she works a minimum wage, off the books job in the Broken just to survive. Then Declan Camarine, a blueblood noble straight out of the deepest part of the Weird, comes into her life, determined to have her (and her power).
But when a terrible danger invades the Edge from the Weird, a flood of creatures hungry for magic, Declan and Rose must work together to destroy them, or the beasts will devour the Edge and everyone in it . . .

Review:

You know what you'd see if Rose 'flashed' you?

Erm, no. Not what you're thinking.

For a second, all you'd see is white light - magic. See, in the world she lives in...flashing is a means of releasing your magic, and the brighter/whiter your flash, the stronger your magic. Rose has very strong magic. Too strong for someone who lives in the Edge. And that's where the problems began

Ok, now that I'm done with the intended-to-be-but-wasn’t dramatic beginning, I'll start the proper review:

On the Edge is a fantasy tale with a formula I haven't read before. Rose Drayton lives on the Edge, the place in between the world of the Broken and the Weird; surviving on the job and the facilities from the Broken - where there's no magic and life is as we know it, and the Weird - where magic is might. The Edge is the in-between place and the Edgers who live there have their magic but also are a part of the non-magical world of the Broken. Unlike the inhabitants of either world, the Edgers can easily pass between these two worlds with little or no unease. However, living an in-between kind of life comes with its own issues for the Edgers. Their magic isn't as great as of those from the Weird. Theres no semblance of organisation and law, and things are resolved in their own way in the Edge.

Rose lives in the Edge with her two brothers while eking out an existence on a cheap cleaning job in the Broken. She carries a rifle around, which she seems to need to use quite a bit to defend herself from those wanting to exploit her for her magic. Her mother's dead, her father's out on some harebrained treasure hunt, her grandmother thinks she knows best, and her grandfather's now a Zombie raised by her brother. Aah, the brothers - they're as naughty and cute as any young boys you've seen, but their hearts are in the right place. Jack is a changeling, and Georgie doesn’t like it when things die - so he raises them from the dead, like her did Grandpa. Add the eccentric family background with no support and people trying to either marry her or enslave her, and there's not much Rose has to rely on but her magic and herself. That’s when Lord Declan comes along. A blueblood from the Weird, he's here to claim Rose as his - something Rose isn't all that keen on. Things heat up when people start disappearing in the Edge and strange hounds with weird magic and even scarier appearances pop up.

The beginning of this book was a bit confusing for me - for 2 or 3 pages only - but even then I instantly felt for Rose. She appears resigned to life as she knows it, but at the same time confident in her abilities and that she can handle everything thrown at her. The best part is that Rose does have the ability to handle it - be it the magic or taking care of her brothers who are more than a handful. This strength of character is what'll make you like Rose. The other characters in the book are sketched pretty well too. Declan is ...well, exactly as you'd imagine a blueblood to be - the I know best, I command you obey mentality. Atleast in the beginning, but he grows on you (lustfully, and otherwise) and you see him thaw that icy outlook for Rose. Yummy really. And all those swords and knives he carries only adds to the yumminess.

The other characters in the book have their own quirks as well. And none more so than our villain extraordinaire, although quirk is not the word I'd use. The man is insane and so damn polite and reasonable as he tells you he wants to kill you and eat you that if it weren't for the words you'd think he was discussing his favourite niece. It’s a bit hard to connect with all the secondary characters in this book, and I get that they have their own quirks cause its fantasyland, but the parts where they're acting as humans balances it out. Like when Rose's grandmother has a talk with Declan. There was a possibility for a tear and some sniffing there.

This is my first Ilona Andrews book and I quite like her style of writing. It's simple and the story flows along so well that you don’t realise you've been sucked in until you look up and realise its 3 in the morning, you've been sitting there since 9 and the dinner you made hours ago is sitting next to you cold. The world building was done so well, that you don’t even realise you're learning more about it as it forms part of the story - something many authors fail to do well, specially in a first book.

The humour and conversations make this a joy to read. You'll be giggling, and appreciating the good lines as well:

"Sometimes two people meet and there is a connection of sorts. An instant attraction. You look at somebody and wonder what it would be like. I don’t wonder that about you. You’re a nice handsome guy. And I want to like you in that way, honestly I do, but there’s just nothing there.”

“Life is so precious because it’s short,” she said. “Even the most resilient people are fragile. Life isn’t about dying or not dying. It’s about living well, George. Living so you can be proud and happy.”

You know, no matter how many times they mentioned it, I still kept getting a completely different image in my head when someone in the book talks about flashing. But that’s just me and the lack of said dinner which never got eaten. No reason to keep you from reading this one. Its not a masterpiece, but it’s a good story to get lost in.

What are you reading on Mondays?

2009-10-12T14:34:00.001+08:00

I haven't been active on the blog at all this week, which you can see from the lack of posts. Its going to be this way for another 4 weeks atleast until I move back to India and get things settled..right now its all packing / getting the house in order/ repairs and other boring stuff

Also the blog now has a new look. You like?

Read last week: I did manage to read two books:
>> Covet by J.R. Ward. 4/5 very very entertaining read

>> Midnight's Daughter (Dorina Basarab, #1) - Karen Chance 4/5 This was my favourite KC book so far.

Click to see my review for Touch the Dark by Karen Chance

Reading this week:

>> Tigana - Guy Gavriel Kay p 119 I didn't touch this one all week, but i'm hoping to get back to it this week

>> Claimed By Shadow - Karen Chance. Book 2 in the Cassandra Palmer series.

>> On the Edge - Ilona Andrews

Wishlist / Discovered last week:

I discovered these books through recommendations/reviews and they've happily increased my growing pile. Click on the links to see the reviews that sold the books:

>> Lord of Scoundrels - Loretta Chase: I really don’t remember where I read about this book from, but from the gushing reviews on Goodreads, I think I'll give it a go

>> The Stepsister Scheme - Jim C. Hines: a retake on Cinderella and some of the other faily tale princesses, head on over to read the review at Poisoned Rationality

>> This Is Where I Leave You - Jonathan Tropper. See the review at Bookfan

Quote for the week:

"Those who dance are considered insane by those who cannot hear the music." - George Carlin

Happy Reading

Touch the Dark - Karen Chance

2009-10-12T14:26:00.000+08:00

Series: Cassandra Palmer, Book 1
Genre: Paranormal
307 pages
Published: 2006
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Blurb: Cassandra Palmer can see the future and communicate with spirits;talents that make her attractive to the dead and the undead. The ghosts of the dead aren't usually dangerous; they just like to talk; a lot. The undead are another matter.

Like any sensible girl, Cassie tries to avoid vampires. But when the bloodsucking Mafioso she escaped three years ago finds Cassie again with vengeance on his mind, she's forced to turn to the vampire Senate for protection. The undead senators won't help her for nothing, and Cassie finds herself working with one of their most powerful members, a dangerously seductive master vampire—and the price he demands may be more than Cassie is willing to pay.

Review: Touch the dark suffers from what can only be described as First Book Syndrome - there's so much of world building and explanations of the past put in here that it really bogs you down and leaves you wondering whether you want to go on. But once you get past, say, the first 50 odd pages, you will get sucked right into the story.

Cassandra Palmer is a clairvoyant on the run from the vampire who raised her. Her life takes a turn when she receives an email with her obituary with the exact time of her death. Trying to escape her fate, Cassie instead ends up at the Vampire Senate and suddenly learns a whole lotta things about herself - she may make chief clairvoyant, there's more about her parents she didn’t know, her old Vampire boss is now keeping dangerous company, there's a war beginning, her childhood crush vampire is out to seduce her, oh and she keeps getting transported to the past.

This is a pretty neat story with a lot of action to keep you engrossed..whats keeping it from being great is that in many places it lacks better execution and narration. The story is told from Cassie's point of view, and sometimes she's just to ditzy to be appealing as a speaker. I liked the other characters a lot though- they're all fascinating. The world Chance has build is pretty interesting - the vampire order is based on their degree of power, there's good and dark fae & mages, and the older vamps are all figures you might recognise from history. Mircea, the sexy vamp senate member who I'm drooling over is the Dracula's brother. The others I'll let you read about - Kit, Louis-Cesar & Ralf. I also liked Tomas and Billy the Ghost. And then there's Pritkin, the mage who is quite a pain in the arse. Not giving much info on them here, but you'll love them when you read about them.

I thought all these characters had their personalities sketched a lot more than Cassie herself. But again, I think that’s because its her doing the narration and she's describing things to the reader - the parts where she does talk about herself don’t reveal much about her as a person enough. This is still a good book. I must admit though that I'm saying that mostly cause I've read book 2, Claimed By Shadow , which is a BIG step up from this one and this really is a very interesting series that you will love and get engrossed in. Just those first 60 pages to slog through in the beginning.. Its all good from there.

What are you reading on Mondays?

2009-10-05T17:37:00.000+08:00

Last week was real busy at work and stuff, so i didn't get much time with the blog. I did sign up for the The Countdown Challenge 2010. What can i say, i'm addicted to these things.

Read last week:

>> Thorn Queen - Richelle Mead  5/5 Even better than the first book in the series. Reviews will be up soon.

>> Chaotic - Kelley Armstrong. 5/5 This was a short story in the Dates From Hell anthology and is about Karl Marsten, the non-pack werewolf with quick fingers and a taste for the good things in life and Hope Adams, a chaos half-demon. I really liked this story, but haven't read any of the other stories in the anthology yet.

>> Industrial Magic - Kelley Armstrong. 4/5 Book 4 in the Women of the Otherword series, this was a lot of fun to read.

>> Touch the Dark - Karen Chance. 3/5 Book 1 in the Cassandra Palmer series, i finished this last night

Click on the link to see my reviews for:
>> Stolen - Kelley Armstrong   3.5 of 5 stars

>> Dime Store Magic - Kelley Armstrong   3 of 5 stars

Reading this week:

>> Tigana - Guy Gavriel Kay p 119 Slow reading seeing as this is 600+ pages. But i'm completely loving it.

>> Treasure - Clive Cussler p 300

>> Haunted - Kelley Armstrong

Wishlist / Discovered last week:
I discovered these books through recommendations/reviews and they've happily increased my growing pile. Click on the links to see the reviews that sold the books:

>> The Puzzle King by Betsy Carter: See the review at Rundpinne

>> His Eyes by Reneé Carter: See more at J. Kaye's Book Blog

>> Intertwined by Gena Showalter. Another one from J. Kaye's Book Blog

>> Ice Land – Betsy Tobin. This is a fantasy based on norse mythology at S. Krishna Books .

Its my birthday today, so the Favourite lines for the week are birthday related..

"Take every birthday with a grain of salt. This works better if the salt accompanies a large margarita."

And on a more serious note:
"Sooner or later we all discover that the important moments in life are not the advertised ones, not the birthdays, the graduations, the weddings, not the great goals achieved. The real milestones are less prepossessing. They come to the door of memory unannounced, stray dogs that amble in, sniff around a bit and simply never leave. Our lives are measured by these." — Susan B. Anthony

Happy Reading

Dime Store Magic (Women of the Otherworld, #3) - Kelley Armstrong

2009-10-05T09:50:00.005+08:00

416 pages
Series: Women of the Otherworld, book 3
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Paige Winterbourne needs to be slapped...I don't know any other way i can start this review. Maybe she was just such a big pain in Stolen, the second book, that I’ve carried that prejudice into this book. No wait, no maybe about that. I definitely did.

The only saving grace this woman had for the first quarter or more of this book was that she did everything she could do defend Savannah from everyone else.

Ok, let me start at the beginning. In Stolen, Paige's mother is killed at the facility where Savannah and Elena are also kept captive. Savannah is the teenage daughter of a now-deceased witch and a powerful sorcerer. After rescuing and gutting the facility, Paige now has custody of Savannah, and she's also the new head of the American Coven of witches. But Leah, the demon who helped capture people for the facility, wants Savannah back and gets Savannah's father involved in the claim as well.
See, Savannah hasn’t yet matured into witch-hood yet, so there's potential to lure her over to the dark side.

Paige now has to fight for custody of Savannah, against the wishes of the other witches in her coven. The only hope she has is in the form of Lucas Cortez, a sorcerer-lawyer who comes to her rescue
Can they save the day and keep Savannah with Paige?

Paige in the beginning is irritating. She's one of those I let my temper rule and don’t see what I don’t want to see kind of people. On the other hand, i found Savannah to be pretty mature and perceptive at most times, specially for her age. Lucas is a bit of a geeky type, also the son of the CEO of the biggest sorcerer Cabal and reluctant heir-in-waiting, with nothing else much going for him except his willingness to help Paige.

This best described Lucas, and was also when i really began to like him:
"The Caped Crusader is Batman, whose alter ego would be Bruce Wayne. Clark Kent is Superman. Neither analogy, I'm afraid, is quite accurate. I lack the tormented brooding sexiness of the Dark Knight and, sadly, I've not yet learned to fly, though I did manage to sail a few yards when Leah threw me this afternoon."

There wasn’t much of romance in this book. And not the best of plots, although there’s quite a bit of situations they get into. But it still made a good read. I liked watching both Paige and Savannah growing stronger as individuals and with each other.

It also had some pretty LOL moments when I was in tears:

Witch: "We are as the Goddess requires."
Paige: "The Goddess requires you to be naked on my lawn?"
Witch: "We aren't naked, child. We're skyclad. Clothing impedes mental vibrations."

See my review of the previous books from this series here

Stolen (Women of the Otherworld, #2) - Kelley Armstrong

2009-10-05T00:13:00.000+08:00

468 pages
Series: Women of the Otherworld, book 2
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars

Stolen is the second book in the Women of the Otherworld series.
While Bitten laid the foundation of Armstrong’s world, it did seem pretty stand-alone. It is Stolen that seems like the first book in a series. We expand from only werewolves to a whole new world with more supernaturals added – witches, shamans, half-demons, vampires and I’m sure more to come.

Stolen is narrated by Elena again. It beings with Elena investigating someone selling information about werewolves, only to have her view of the supernatural world expanded with two witches telling her about supernaturals of all types disappearing and warning her the werewolves may be next. There’s an interracial council that’s trying to get to the bottom of this situation while ensuring no-one else disappears, and the werewolves are asked to join back in..but the human mastermind behind this kidnapping finally gets his hands on Elena – and learns what happens when you deal with a werewolf.

This book doesn’t have the punch from Bitten, but it was pretty good in itself. Elena is her usual sarcastic, strong woman who has decided to settle with the werewolf pack but still thinks with her human mind. We have more of Elena and Clay – they left off in Bitten deciding to be together, and Stolen has them working towards their relationship and getting closer towards the end when it finally dawns that they could have lost each other. Witches, vampires and other supes are added – some more noteable than the others. Paige, a young witch who is completely annoying and Cassandra, the vampire who doesn’t seem to care about whats happening.

I wish there were more interactions among the werewolf pack – that’s what made Bitten such so wonderful. You’ll love the times Clay and Elena have together, specially the parts towards the end. This book also sets up the next one – Dime Store Magic – which I’m guessing with be narrated by Paige. Wondering how that’ll work seeing as Paige completely got on my nerves in this book, even if she was good at her stuff. Go read this.
See my review of Bitten here

The Countdown Challenge 2010

2009-09-29T11:42:00.000+08:00

Yippee, another challenge !!!
I like the ones I've been doing so far, and this one seems like it has potential to get me reading more genres besides paranormal if I chose my books right.

So here goes
The goal of this challenge is to read the number of books first published in a given year that corresponds to the last digit of each year in the 2000s — 10 books from 2010, 9 books from 2009, 8 books from 2008, etc. The total number of books required, therefore, is 55.

Challenge lasts from 9/9/09 through 10/10/10. It is hosted by 3M at 1morechapter. Head on there for more info

My tentative list:

2010

Voices of Dragons - Carrie Vaughn
Ash - Malinda Lo
First Drop of Crimson - Jeaniene Frost
Silver Borne - Patricia Briggs
Archangels' Kiss - Nalini Singh

2009

Thorn Queen - Richelle Mead
Fire - Kristin Cashore
Heart's Blood - Juliet Marillier
Hand of Isis - Jo Graham
When Seducing a Duke - Kathryn Smith
The Forest of Hands and Teeth - Carrie Ryan
Twenty Boy Summer - Sarah Ockler

2008

Olive Kitteridge - Elizabeth Strout
Personal Demon - Kelley Armstrong
When You Are Engulfed in Flames - David Sedaris
Panic - Michael Lewis

2007

The Gargoyle - Andrew Davidson
And Then He Kissed Her - Laura Lee Guhrke
Dirty - Megan Hart

2006

.
.
.
2001

What are you reading Mondays?

2009-09-28T15:07:00.001+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by J. Kaye's Book Blog. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week

My plan for the past week was catching up on reviews rather than reading anything new..Didn't work out as well as i hoped it would. There's still a nice long backlog, but i did get quite a few reviews up

Read/ Reviewed:Click on the link to see the review

>> Wild Rain - Christine Feehan - 4.5 / 5 Really liked this story.

>> According To Jane - Marilyn Brant 5++ / 5 This is the authors first book, and it is awesome

>> Bitten - Kelley Armstrong - 5++ / 5 I think i've read this one bout 4 times already.

>> Dime Store Magic - Kelley Armstrong 3.5 / 5. Not as good as book 1, maybe cause there's no Clay :(

>> A Tall Dark Cowboy - Mackenzie McKade 3.5/5 Good story, but i reviewed it only for the funny parts.

>> Caressed by Ice - Nalini Singh 4.5 / 5. Nalini Singh, need i say more?

>> Storm Born - Richelle Mead 4/ 5 Finished this last night. I think Richelle Mead is getting added to my favourite author list.

Reading this week:

>> Blood and Chocolate - Annette Curtis Klause p 23. Need to get back to reading this one. So hoping it gets better

>> Tigana - Guy Gavriel Kay p 46 Confusing at first, but i'm starting to get pulled in

>> The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame pg 26. Just for fun. And because I haven't read it before. You can read it for free at http://www.wowio.com/ or download it from goodreads as well

>> Industrial Magic - Kelley Armstrong.
Wishlist / Discovered last week:
I discovered these books through recommendations/reviews and they've happily increased my growing pile. Click on the links to see the reviews

>> The Greatest Knight: - Elizabeth Chadwick - Lovely review at Royal Reviews

>> Under a Blood Red Sky - Kate Furnivall - Another great book from Royal Reviews as part of their ancient history week

>> Deeper - Megan Hart - Think i heard bout this one from Goodreads. The story sounds pretty good, and i love the cover.

>> Something, Maybe - Elizabeth Scott - found this at S. Krishna's Books.

Favourite line for the week:

"A stereotype becomes a stereotype when a significant percentage of the population appears to conform to it."
- Kelley Armstrong (Dime Store Magic)

Happy Reading

Caressed by Ice - Nalini Singh

2009-09-27T16:16:00.000+08:00

361 pages
Series: Psy-Changeling, Book #3

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Caressed by Ice is the story of Brenna and Judd.
Brenna was the SnowDancer wolf who had been taken by the killer psy from the first book and brutalised before being rescued. She's still healing, and the remnants the killer Psy left behind in her head along with the protective cocoon her brothers have wrapped her in isn't helping her. Her only hope at sanity comes in the form of Judd, a psy living with the wolves, and the only one she thinks understands her.

Judd is one of the Arrows - the elite assassins of the Psy. Judd has seen into Brenna's mind while healing her and is intrigued with the woman. However, being Psy, he is still governed by Silence and believes his Psy designation and chosen profession don’t give him the option of ever giving reign to his emotions.

But someone wants Brenna dead. And Brenna needs his help to keep her alive as well as find out what was done to her. And there’s growing attraction between these two. What’s a couple to do? (hehe, sorry got carried away a bit)

I liked this book a lot. These were both very strong characters, and so far my favourite couple. Brenna got annoying at bits sometimes, but overall she was a strong - willed character who just needed the right words and i guess the right man to get her out of the fear induced and broken state she was in after the attack.

Judd was the voice of reason. He also plays a crucial role in what I think will be the direction of the coming books – there’s a Ghost in the Psy-Net who’s working against the Psy and Judd is helping him.

Singh is still adding to her world-building but she makes it interesting to read rather than a heap of boring knowledge. There are brief insights into the beginning of the Psy race and also lil tidbits about the Arrows. This is one of the few series that also has bits and pieces about the couples from the previous books. I didn’t know who the killer was till the end, and that made me like this book all the more. I’m definitely hooked on this series
See my reviews of the previous books here

Wild Rain - Christine Feehan

2009-09-26T18:18:00.002+08:00

384 pages
Series: Leopard People, book #2

Blurb: What has she done? With a new identity, a staged death, and a chance to flee the treachery that stalks her, Rachael has escaped from a faceless assassin. Now, thousands of miles from home, under the lush canopy of the rain forest, she's found sanctuary.
Where can she hide? In this world teaming with unusual creatures walks the most exotic of them all. His name is Rio. A native of the forest imbued with a fierce prowess, he is something to be desired. Possessed of secrets of his own, he is something to be feared.
Whom can she trust? But as Rachael's past looms as oppressively as the heat of the forest, and as Rio unleashes the secret animal instincts that course through his blood, Rachael fears that her isolated haven has become an inescapable hell…

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Very interesting story this
After the meh first book The Awakening, Wild Rain was a great read. Rachael has come to the Borneo rain forest on the run from her past. Trying to stage her own death and begin a new life in the forest, she ends up in Rio's home, thinking its only a dwelling for travellers

Rio is one of the leopard people and has 2 clouded leopards as his companions. He thinks she’s one of the poachers and in the scuffle that follows his snow leopard hurts Rachael. Rio then takes care of her and they both feel they know each other from another time and place.

Both of them have a price on their heads and as Rachael recovers from her injury, these two try to make sense of their feelings of familiarity with one another and their attraction in the present.
I love the easy banter between these two. They're both alone because they realise the lives they live are dangerous, but they also realise they have something special and don't want to lose that.

Fav lines:
Racheal: “You’re obviously one of those he-men seen only on film who can take forty-seven kicks in the ribs and keep on fighting. Don’t mind me for being human.”

Rio: “And I always take it personally when someone tries to remove my head from my shoulders.”

Sometimes lying was the better part of valor and the only way to save a man’s butt.

I kept smiling to myself while reading this book. Good writing, great lines, lovely couple. And good suspense, cause I kept wondering what Rachael was running from, and until the words were out of her mouth, I never would have guessed.
In short, whats not to love.

According To Jane - Marilyn Brant

2009-09-25T02:18:00.000+08:00

352 pages
Blurb: It begins one day in sophomore English class, just as Ellie Barnett's teacher is assigning Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice". From nowhere comes a quiet 'tsk' of displeasure. The target: Sam Blaine, the cute bad boy who's teasing Ellie mercilessly, just as he has since kindergarten. Entirely unbidden, as Jane might say, the author's ghost has taken up residence in Ellie's mind, and seems determined to stay there. Jane's wise and witty advice guides Ellie through the hell of adolescence and beyond, serving as the voice she trusts, usually far more than her own. Years and boyfriends come and go - sometimes a little too quickly, sometimes not nearly fast enough. But Jane's counsel is constant, and on the subject of Sam, quite insistent. Stay away, Jane demands. He is your Mr. Wickham. Still, everyone has something to learn about love - perhaps even Jane herself. And lately, the voice in Ellie's head is being drowned out by another, urging her to look beyond everything she thought she knew and seek out her very own, very unexpected, happy ending.

Rating: 5++ / 5

You need to read this book, it is absolutely delightful. I'm still a bit stunned and not quite sure where to start with this review.

The Book blurb really says it all perfectly in this one case.

Ellie is handed a copy of Pride and Prejudice in school, and behind her Sam is busy teasing her. And suddenly there's a voice in Ellie's head telling her to stay away from him. He is your Mr. Wickham says the voice of Jane Austen in her head.

And there it begins. Ellie's journey through life with Jane Austen as friend and counsellor for the next 20 odd years of her life - through her trials as a teenager, fitting in with her family, school and the years beyond, her hopes and dreams for the future and more importantly in her interactions with the men in her life.

Its hard to tell you what i felt for the other characters in this book without giving away any spoilers.

Ellie is a typical geek looking for a happy ending with prince charming. Along the way, you learn life lessons through Ellie's experiences and trial and error. And later through looking at past events with the fresh eyes of an adult

In school, Ellie likes Sam. She's attracted to him inspite of all Jane's warnings to pay him no attention - he's her first love. At the same time she hates Sam for his arrogant ways and confidence. And thus begins the boy trouble. And it continues for quite a while with a motley crew of men (who she tries to classify into her 6 categories of men)

Then there's Di - Ellie's elder sister who's a pain in her ass growing up. You want to hate her, and at the same time you want them to be close sisters.

As much as i wanted to hit Ellie on her head when it came to her choices in men specially when some weren't kicked out sooner - the girl is improving when it comes to who she picks. But i still wanted to hit her when it came to Sam. And hit Jane as well. Sam was too hot and too good to be blindsided for being confident.

Sam. I loved him. From the first time he was featured in page two where he called out Ellieeee

Whats bestest in this book is the writing. Its simple. Yet it has many layers. And it gives you that warm cosy feeling. The characters are all very well written, you identify with Ellie. You want Sam. And you wish you had someone like Jane to lean on during the horrible times.

The only problem i had with this book was the ending wasnt as strong as i would have liked it to be. But it was a happy one and in its own way, a perfect one

A lil snippet of the beautiful writing:
On her failed relationships because of bad choices in men:

Ellie: Humans are complicated Jane. Really complicated. And I've made mistakes because I've repeatedly chosen not to see that.
Jane: It is more likely a result of the philosophy you persist in holding dear. Romanticism encourages an abandonment of restraint and, as you've so often wished to fall in love without regard to rationality, this invites the absurd. Your mistakes in judgement are not due to the complexity in humanity Ellie. They are due to the lens with which you view love
Ellie: You mean, i need to change the fairy take and not the man?
Jane: Precisely

This book is currently available for free at the sony e-book store

Bitten (Women of the Otherworld, #1) - Kelley Armstrong

2009-09-23T19:56:00.000+08:00

453 pages

Rating: 5 + + / 5

This book has the distinction of getting me hooked from the first line itself. I didn’t need to wait a few pages for the story to pick up and get absorbed into it, Bitten did it from the get go.

I have to.
I've been fighting it all night. I'm going to lose.My battle is as futile as a woman feeling the first pangs of labor and deciding it's an inconvenient time to give birth. Nature wins out. It always does.

Bitten is about Elena - the only female werewolf in the world. Not by her choice - she was bitten by her lover and forced into this world. That’s one of the reasons she's so determined to live as a normal human away from it all. That’s where this story beings - with Elena and her experience undergoing the Change into a werewolf late night in the streets of Toronto - not an ideal place to change. She's living with Philip, a nice patient human guy and another attempt to integrate into the normal world.

Elena is no ditzy character. She's sarcastic but strong-willed and determined. She tries to be grounded in reality- as much as a bitten werewolf who's rebelling against the werewolf lifestyle can be. I liked her sense of independence - she didn't need someone else to come save her. As much as she rebels, eventually, when they need her help, she returns to the Pack, and to the man who bit her.

I kept looking at the number of pages and gleefully anticipating what would happen next and how the troubles facing the werewolves would eventually end - because what this book is filled with is one action packed situation after another.

What it is also filled with is Clay.
Oh Clay. When Elena kept fighting with him I really wanted to tell her to settle for Phillip and leave Clay for me.
He figures up there with Bones from the Night Huntress world and Adam and Charles from Mercy Thompson world for swoonworthy heroes for me. Must I say any more?
I think I should
I've never liked reading a man calling a woman darling as many times as Clay did in this book. I loved all his conversations with Elena. He has a single minded-determination to get what he wants; and also say what he wants - which is Elena.

"What the hell do you want?" I said.
His smile turned to a grin, white teeth flashing. "You. What else?"
"Where? Right here? On the floor?"
"Nah. Not that. Not yet. Just the same old thing I always want. You. Here. For good...I'm glad you're home, darling. I missed you."

And i won't even begin to talk about all the romping-around-the-jungle sex these two had..they're always ripping each others clothes out and while I don’t usually like reading such 'frenzy' cause the authors never makes it believable, I wished I was Elena many times in this book.

Then there's Jeremy - the Alpha of the pack - with his amazing self control and quiet strength of character. Another character so full of awesomeness. The world building in this book is brilliant. The characters are well-drawn out so you feel like you've know all of them for a long time and you want to be their friends. (well, I did and I'm sure you will too)

This one is definitely up there among my favourite reads. I read it more than thrice already and each time I tried writing a review I'd go back to check some part I liked and end up reading it all over again. What that should translate into for you is to stop reading my rantings here now and go find yourself a copy to keep. Don’t borrow. Buy

Catching up on reviews

2009-09-21T01:45:00.000+08:00

I love reading..and writing reviews. Its just the laziness that gets in the way.

Alaine at Queen of Happy Endings has posted a great post on catching up on reviews for bloggers behind in their book reviews. She has some great tips on how to ensure you're on top of your reviews at all times. Go read

I really have a huge problem with getting my reviews done. I'm not even considering the books i didn't like or the ones that were just ok. This is either because i get so immersed in a good book that i don't jot notes when i'm reading it and then it becomes too late, or because i've written half a review and then left it in the drafts and moved on to another book

Another problem is series books - for series i like, i want to review all the books i read, in order..and the order is the part where the problems occurs. So i have an almost review for Dime Store Magic written, but want to post reviews for Bitten and Stolen first.

This coming week is review week for me..so hopefully i should have quite a few done..most are half done so it shouldn't be so hard.

Shakespeare's Landlord - Charlaine Harris
Iron Kissed - Book 3 - Patricia Briggs
Dirty - Megan Hart
Bitten (Book 1) - Kelley Armstrong
Stolen (Book 2) - Kelley Armstrong
Men of the Otherworld - Kelley Armstrong
Caressed By Ice - Nalini Singh
Wild Rain - Christine Feehan

One book review a day maybe?

*The pic has nothing to do with the post, but i kept thinking of the Hitchhiker's Guide today and it was a toss between this pic and one of Marvin
** Alaine - Thank you for the inspiration for this post

A Tall Dark Cowboy - Mackenzie McKade

2009-09-20T20:38:00.000+08:00

226 pages
Contemporary-romance?
Rating: 3.5 / 5
This isn't really a proper review. Just a summary of all the funny parts..This is my first Mackenzie McKade book, and the only reason i picked the e-book up last night was because it was only 139 pages.
This book doesn't really fall into erotica for me, although there is quite a bit of mattress tango in here, its written pretty well. There's a pretty good story actually. So for all of you who want to know more..presenting the parts that made this book ...umm..memorable?

First the book blurb so you know what the book is about:
Just looking for a good time...
Waiting tables in a bar full of no-good cowboys isn't Lacy Mason's idea of fun. But between her daughter's illness (daughter needs a heart transplant and is in hospital), endless doctor bills, and her college tuition, she needs the money.
What she could really use is a night of no-holds-barred passion and no-strings-attached sex. Too bad she has sworn off cowboys for life
A guy walks into a bar...
Full-time executive and retired cowboy Wyatt Anderson is drawn to Lacy from the moment he sees her. But she's an enigma. Daring and assured one moment and hesitant the next, it's as if something haunts her. Only willing to give him one night, Lacy clings tightly to her secrets.
Unfortunately for her, what Wyatt wants, Wyatt gets. And he definitely wants Lacy...

Now the fun parts:

This one while in bed - I'll add a couple of lines before it as well, so you know the whole story:
“You’re a devil,” she muttered, wanting, needing more of the sweet, sweet pain.
A lethal grin flashed for just a second. “Uh-huh,” he replied, before adding, “Can I poke you with my pitchfork?”

They fit together like a baseball in a catcher’s mitt. Like a golf ball in the eighteenth hole. Briefly, he considered sharing his analogies with her, then hesitated. Most women didn’t appreciate the analogies men made between them and sports.

“Every time I look at you I’m bewitched.” Now what guy talks like this? Ofcourse i immediately thought of the television program … and all the buildup between the two of them fizzled out with images of the Samantha twitching her nose in my mind

After unprotected sex (because stories like these need to have atleast one scenario of it):
Wyatt: "From now on my sword will wear the shield of death."

He wasn’t someone who fell in love quickly. Shit, he was an engineer. There was a process, procedures to follow. Time was required. – This was funny when I was reading it. Don't usually find internal monologue like this.

There were a lot more..some i didn't copy because this blog doesn't intend to be that trashy, and other because i forgot to note down.
This really was a lovely story though. These are two very strong, passionate and caring characters. Worth reading actually.

What are you reading Mondays?

2009-09-14T15:58:00.000+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by J. Kaye's Book Blog. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week

I don't know what was wrong this week, but i kept flitting between books unable to find something i wanted to read. So there's quite a bit of unfinished books i hope i'll be able to get to this week. The ones i did finish, were really good.

Shadow Game -Christine Feehan - This is the first book in Feehan's GhostWalkers series - and it was highly entertaining. I must have been on a silly-high when i wrote this review, i had a lotta fun writing it. Please go read it.

Angels Pawn - Nalini Singh. This is sorta a prequel to Singh's Guild Hunter book Angel's Blood. Its a short read and expands on the world this series is set it - you definitely must give a look see. Its about Ashwini, another Guild Hunter, and the vampire she's always seems to be chasing and is attracted to - Janvier. You'll love Janvier, he oozes charm. No review.

The Smoke Thief - Shana Abé - You're missing out if you haven't read this one. Thats all i'm going to say.

Didn't do much else this week. Filled in a real fun meme: My Life in Books. Finally got the looong awaited job offer from back home, so i can start packing my bags come October. Watched too much TV. Was generally my usual lazy self.

Planned reading for this week:
>> Blood and Chocolate - Annette Curtis Klause pg 23. I'm finding this annoying so far. Hopefully it gets better

>> Dime Store Magic - Kelley Armstrong pg 118. Paige isn't as annoying as i thought she would be.
>> Storm Born - Richelle Mead

Favourite line for the week:
"Happiness is having a large, loving, caring, close-knit family in another city." - George Burns
Since i'm going back to India soon, this seems appropriate enough to annoy Mom and Dad. OK OK. Was kidding. A lil bit :O)

The Smoke Thief (Drakon, #1) - Shana Abé

2009-09-14T15:41:00.001+08:00

324 pages
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"Imagine a place so ripe and thick with the promise of magic that the very air breathes in plumes of pearl and gray and smoky blue; that the trees bow with the weight of their heavy branches, dipping low to the ground, dropping needles and leaves into beds of perfume" - Thus begin the first lines of The Smoke Thief, the story of the mysterious race of half-human half-dragon, and from there it only gets better.

This book is about Clarissa Rue Hawthorne, who as a half breed Drakon child is pretty much looked down upon in her Drakon Shire of Darkfrith. The only thing going for her is her loving mother and Christoff, the Drakon next in line to be Alpha, who she can only afford to look at from afar.

Then she decides to make something of her life.

Fast forward a couple of years and Clarissa (who goes by the name Rue) has made a name and a life for herself in London, far away from the other Drakon and living by her own rules. She's the famous smoke thief, only no one knows this other than a little street urchin, Zane, who she rescued one day.

The Drakon know it is one of them who is the thief. Christoff, all grown up and hotness personified (my words, not from the book) is now the Alpha. He's got a plan for catching the thief - The Langford Diamond - one no Drakon can resist. Only the plan goes kaput when Christoff (or Kit) sees a previously-presumed-dead Clarissa at the showing for the diamond and is smitten.
And then the diamond is stolen.
To make matter worse, Clarissa escapes from Kit.
By Turning to smoke.
The first female Drakon to do so in I forgot how long.
Now the Drakon need their diamond back, and they need Rue..as does Kit.

I loved this book. Shana Abe is being added to my favourite authors based on only this one book, which really should tell you all you need to know. You can picture the words that flow in this book - imagine the events as they happen. Get completely immersed in the mystery and wonder that are the Drakon. I loved the history and legend of the Drakon that the author weaves into this beautiful story.
This is a story where you want to read the next page simply because it is a joy to read, to know what these two characters will do next.

Clarissa Rue is a strong character - lacking in ego but confident in her own abilities and her own skin. A woman/Drakon who decided she wanted better than life had to offer her and went ahead and created that life for herself. The smart witty dialogue, and the effect she has on Kit and the other Drakon only adds to her appeal. And when she tells you the reason why she left her previous life, you'll only respect and admire her more.

Christoff / Kit, now Marquess of Langford, is an Alpha through and through. He's ruthless, knows his mind, also extremely confident in himself and uses his charm shamelessly. He's also a Drakon besotten (is that even a word?) with Rue from the moment he sees her in London - No, not love at first sight. Atleast he doesn't show it if it is. He'll do anything to get what he wants..and he does..but you can see as the story progresses how he softens his stand for Rue.

The romance is..intense. Kit is charming, and he uses all of it on Rue. This is sweet seduction at its best - and its all sincere, which is the bestest part.The kissing scenes are lovely..and the conversations..oh well -

"I've wanted you from the moment I first saw you in the museum. Before that. I wanted every part of you from the first time I felt you, your presence. I want you in the sky, and against the earth. I want to kiss you again, I want to touch you, I want to feel you in my arms and I want to hear you gasping my name when I'm inside you. I want all that, and I want it badly. Every time I look at you, I want it. So you're going to have to become used to that, Rue. It won't change."

Now tell me you don't want Christoff for yourself.

And now on to the next book, The Dream Thief which has more my favourite street - urchin Zane...
In case I didn't mention it, this one goes up there on my Favourite shelf - way up there with Bitten, Daughter of the Forest, Graceling...oh well - GO READ!!

My Life in Books

2009-09-14T12:31:00.000+08:00

I saw this Meme at The Eclectic Reader and it seemed liked the perfect way to while away the time at work. You can tell they pay me to do nothing since i spend most of the working hours either (shamelessly) reading books online or fidgeting with my blog.

I added my own two bits after the book names. The typing makes it look like i'm frantically working .. impresses the bosses and all that...

Describe Yourself: Holy Smokes (evil laughter ensues at own cleverness)

How do you feel: Destined for an Early Grave (it’s Monday, how else would i feel)

Describe where you currently live: A Dirty Job (cleanliness and me are not buddies)

If you could go anywhere, where would you go: Under the Covers (Lotsa contenders for this one, but sleep always wins out over everything else.)

Your favorite form of transport: The Navigator

Your best friend is: Fantasy Lover (sounded better than The Boy in the Striped Pajamas)

What's the weather like: Visions of Heat

Favourite time of day: Twilight (complete with sparkly Vampires and all that)

What is life to you: A Fine Balance

Your fear: Undead and Unwed (Yes Kevin, i'm talking to you)

What is the best advice you have to give: Tempt the Devil

Thought for the Day: Destiny Kills

How I would like to die: Slave to Sensation (i really would like being given a choice..)

My soul's present condition: Fire Me Up

And now for some more frantic typing.. must do some reviews...Oh wait!! Its lunch time...

Shadow Game (GhostWalkers, #1) - Christine Feehan

2009-09-10T15:19:00.000+08:00

323 pages

Blurb: The classified experiment is the brainchild of renowned scientist Peter Whitney and his brilliant daughter. Lily. Created to enhance the psychic abilities of an elite squadron, it can transform their natural mental powers into a unique military weapon. But something has gone wrong. In the isolated underground labs, the men have been dying--victims of bizarre accidents. Captain Ryland Miller knows he is next. When Dr. Whitney himself is murdered, Ryland has only one person left to trust: the beautiful Lily. Possessed of an uncanny sixth sense herself, Lily shares Ryland's every new fear every betrayal, every growing suspicion, and every passionate beat of the heart. Together, they will be drawn deeper into the labyrinth of her father's past...and closer to a secret that someone would kill to keep hidden

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I've always wondered how your breath can slam out of your lungs. After reading some 20+ books by Feehan, this is still a question that remains unanswered for me. I tried being surprised or excited and no breath slamming out of lungs happened. I even thought of asking The Boyfriend if this happens to him but he already looks at me funny after my last similar experimental question. So this regular feature in Feehan's books where the girl/guy kisses the guy/girl and "His breath slammed out of his lungs" - still unexplained phenomenon.

That mystery aside, this book was very entertaining to me. It helped while away a boring Wednesday at work, and it was short enough that I went home and finished it right before another episode of CSI Miami. While this does fall into the paranormal category thanks to all the psychic fun going on, this was more a comedy for me. I laughed a lot. I don't think that was what Feehan intended. But more on that later.

Some good stuff first. There's a lot of scientific mumbo jumbo in this book. I say mumbo jumbo cause despite all my crime/paranormal TV education and that stuff they tried to teach me in college, not all of it made sense to me. But fascinating it most certainly was. See the blurb for more info. A scientist who manages to expand your mental powers into the psychic realm, and a daughter who serves as his inspiration and herself is an expert in the field. Aah Lily. As a woman you were mostly silly. As a scientist, you were awesome. This fact alone made me read the book faster than usual.

What Peter Whitney, Lily's father and scientist extraordinaire does may be morally wrong, but it made real good reading. He is experimenting on a bunch of special forces men to make them the ultimate military team, but things seem to be going awry (I could have said wrong, but I wanted to use awry. No one uses that word anymore). So he calls Lily for a second opinion. And thus her life changes - she's insanely attracted to the leader of the special forces team (who is kept in a cage, btw), she psychically sees her father being murdered, and other forces are at play who wants the secrets that her father died for. Oh and she herself is psychic.

Now a lil on the Hero of the hour, and this is the comedy part people. Explain to me who on earth talks like this in this day and age. A lot of the book had him speaking like this - either to himself or to her. I cannot picture this man being a ruthless killer with the special forces:

"I'm losing my sanity, Lily. I burn for you, day and night." The words were whispered against her open mouth. "It's not comfortable or pleasant, it hurts like hell. Put me out of my misery, honey. Help me, Lily. I can't think with wanting you."

The man is a leader of men and well, I don't think they knit scarves in the special forces. Yet all his mind was centered on was how she was way out of his class (Physically and financially. This thought came one page after he meets her for the first time and kept popping up for a while), whether she had something going on with Roger the guard, if he could hold her in his arms, if she had underwear on - most of this during what would otherwise be called life and death situations. Well, yeah, he was sweet as hell, and really good in bed, and a pretty good leader - you know all round alpha. But all this stupidity in his head was too funny for me.

All my silliness in this review aside, this was a real neat book. I liked all the scientific stuff, the H/H only wanted to get in each others pants but they were cute together, I liked their conversations, the supporting characters were developed enough that I could picture each of them and I'm eagerly waiting to read the next books on Kaden and Nico. You'll love Lily's extended family of Arly, Rosa and John. You'll also love the villains - in that they play their roles right and you want to slap them as all villains are intended to make you feel. There isn't much of a mystery in this book, you can tell from the beginning who's gonna be in the good and bad guy camps, but it makes fun reading anyway. Oh, also - the psychic stuff these guys can do is pretty neat too. I think I was supposed to mention that in the beginning. But I got sidetracked. I'm giving this one 4/5 for the entertainment it provided.

You know, I don’t think this review is gonna help anyone. But I typed it, so I'll post it

What are you reading Mondays?

2009-09-07T15:27:00.001+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by J. Kaye's Book Blog. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week

Read quite a bit last week and i lucked out with real good books as well. Click on the links for reviews

>> The Awakening (Leopard Series, #1) - Christine Feehan

>> Wild Rain (Leopard Series 2) - Christine Feehan (a lot better than book 1. Review to come)

>> Caressed by Ice (Psy-Changeling 3) - Nalini Singh (I liked this one the best so far. Review to come.)

>> Dark Slayer (Carpathians, #20) - Christine Feehan (Excellent continuation of the Carpathian Series)

>> Fractured - Karin Slaughter (I loved this book. Definitely my pick of the week. I'll be thinking about this one for a while)

See also my review of
Visions of Heat (Psy-Changeling, #2) - Nalini Singh

This week: This is the part where i need your help. Below is my list of picks for September, i haven't started any yet, and i don't know which one to begin with. So help me out here..

> Dime Store Magic (Women of the Otherworld, #3) - Armstrong, Kelley
> Shadow Game (GhostWalkers, #1) - Feehan, Christine
> The Smoke Thief (Drakon, #1) - Abé, Shana
> Blood and Chocolate - Klause, Annette Curtis
> Bone Crossed (Mercedes Thompson, #4) - Briggs, Patricia
> The Forest of Hands and Teeth - Ryan, Carrie
> And Then He Kissed Her- Guhrke, Laura Lee
> Tigana - Guy Gavriel Kay

Have a great week and Happy Reading!!

Favourite line:
Sometimes lying was the better part of valor and the only way to save a man’s butt - Rio Santiano (Wild Rain )

Dark Slayer (Carpathians, #20) - Christine Feehan

2009-09-07T14:59:00.001+08:00

416 pages

A rumor has persisted in the vampire world of a dark slayer—a woman—who travels with a wolf pack and any among the vampires who meets her is slain. Mysterious, elusive and seemingly impossible to kill, she is the one hunter who strikes terror into the hearts of the vampires.
Ivory Malinov is that woman, betrayed by her own people, by her family, by everyone she held dear and she hunts during the night with only her pack to sustain her sanity. She has not spoken to or been with any other person for a hundred years other than to feed from or slay. She stumbles across a body on her way back to her lair and discovers—her lifemate.
He is Razvan, branded a hated criminal, detested, feared and loathed by all Carpathians—he is also a dragonseeker of one of the greatest lineages of all Carpathians Held captive nearly his entire life by his grandfather, the Carpathians bitterest enemy, he is seeking the dawn to end his terrible existence.
This is a story of two people, horribly betrayed, wounded in spirit, fighters to the death, who must struggle to unite against a common enemy.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I think I've said this for the past 3 Carpathian books I reviewed, but this really is the best Carpathian book so far. Or close to it atleast. Dark Slayer is about Ivory Manilov and Razvan.

Ivory is the sister of the 5 Manilov brothers who purposely turned Vampire because they thought they could rule the world that way. Ivory was tortured and hacked and left for dead by the Mikhail's brother Draven and the vampires under Xavier's direction. However mother earth and the wolves saved her and now she slays the undead along with her wolf pack - with no allegiances to the undead, Xavier or the Carpathian race that left her for dead.

The grandson of the evil mage Xavier, Razvan has been in his grandfather's clutches since he was fourteen and has had his body and mind used for crimes against Xavier's enemies. He's lived only with his honour and endured to save those he loves, but now he's giving up.

Many things are thankfully different in this book. The two meet and don't want to be tied to each other because they're both being hunted, but cant abandon the other nonetheless. Ivory is the warrior in this book, while Razvan is more the calming influence with tremendous inner strength (that just sounds corny now, but you know what I mean)
He had learned long ago that he couldn’t control others or events, only his own reaction to what happened...“I do not control others, Ivory, only myself. I do what I must, no matter the cost.”

I can honestly say these are the strongest characters I've come across in anything I've read so far - both mentally and physically these two have endured and have been honed in the fires of hell. They have a single minded determination to accomplish whatever they set their sights on - be it Xavier or ravishing each other. Despite their strengths, they both have vulnerabilities - and it is lovely how they are there for the other at their times of need. At time I thought there was too much of the inner dialogue - with how they didn't deserve each other and how they had found joy and happiness. But considering both their tortured pasts, the gratitude and joy they found in each other did make sense, and it wasn’t so bad to read.

Razvan's lack of ego is refreshing after all the previous Carpathian men and their i'm-the-best-thing-that-ever-happend-to-you attitude. He's happy following Ivory's lead in areas that are her forte, and they support each other as partners. The part where they Razvan uses his skill at strategy along with Ivory's abilities and tricks the ancient Carpathians had me laughing for quite a while.

A lot of the old characters are back in this book along with some new ones. We catch up with what's been happening in the other lives and how they're fighting the undead, Xavier and they're own extinction with the inability to keep their babies alive. There's also sad re-unions with Razvan meeting his sister Natalya (who I wanted to slap in this book a lot of times) and his daughter Lara and coming to terms with the new knowledge of what Xavier had been using his body for.

Lovely story this. I wondered how the two would meet, how they would reconcile with the Carpathians and whether they would defeat Xavier and where the series will go from this book onwards. Feehan does a almost perfect job on all counts. A lot of things are wrapped up in this book, with enough to keep you waiting for the next book.

Really, this isn't an adequate review. It'll make you laugh, it might make you cry. It'll keep you invested in the lives of these two. So go read the book. (But read some of the previous books first so it makes a lot more sense)
See my reviews on some of the previous Carpathian books here

Fractured (Will Trent, #2) - Karin Slaughter

2009-09-07T12:27:00.000+08:00

416 pages
Blurb: The #1 internationally bestselling author returns to the damaged landscape she knows so well in a bold new novel—at once a powder keg of suspense, a gritty portrait of a cop’s life, and a searing exploration of a shocking crime and its aftermath…

With its gracious homes and tree-lined streets, Ansley Park is one of Atlanta’s most desirable neighborhoods. But in one gleaming mansion, in a teenager’s lavish bedroom, a girl has been savagely murdered. And in the hallway, her horrified mother stands amid shattered glass, having killed her daughter’s attacker with her bare hands.
Detective Will Trent of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation is here only to do a political favor; the murder site belongs to the Atlanta police. But Trent soon sees something that the cops are missing, something in the trail of blood, in a matrix of forensic evidence, and in the eyes of the shell-shocked mother. Within minutes, Trent is taking over the case—and adding another one to it. He is sure that another teenage girl is missing, and that a killer is on the loose.
Armed with only fleeting clues, teamed with a female cop who has her own personal reasons for hating him, Trent has enemies all around him—and a gnawing feeling that this case, which started in the best of homes, is cutting quick and deep through the ruins of perfect lives broken wide-open: where human demons emerge with a vengeance

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a amazing novel. When I say amazing I mean go-pick-up-a-copy-to-read-amazing. Triptych was the first Karin Slaughter book I read last year and I was hooked. I loved Will Trent - the detective with undiagnosed dyslexia who cannot read, is socially awkward, looks at everything with different eyes, is extremely intelligent and makes one hell of a detective.
In Fractured, Slaughter brings Will's past and his disability to the forefront - he excels because of what he is and is held back because of his dyslexia too. But enough about Will.
What this story really is about is Emma and getting her back.

"This time yesterday morning, Kayla and Emma had probably been getting ready for school. Maybe Adam Humphrey had slept in because he had a later class. Abigail Campano had been getting ready for her day of tennis and spa treatments. Paul had been on his way to work. None of them had known how little time they had left before their lives were forever changed or—worse—stolen."

When the Atlanta police are called in to a crime where a mother has just killed her murdered daughter's attacker, they peg it as a murder-and home invasion gone wrong. Only Will sees the clues, and realises there is more than meets the eye (see blurb for more)

Partnered with a female cop who hates him and blames him for her mothers retirement from the Atlanta Police, Will has to piece the clues together to find Emma, his old nemesis' kidnapped daughter, before her time runs out and even the cops on the case give her up for dead.

If you've read any Karin Slaughter, you'll know why you need to pick up this book. Its only my second by her, but I know I'll be reading a whole lot more of her as soon as I can get my hands on em. This book grips you from the get go, makes you feel what each of the characters are going through (and not just the main ones), their hopes and frustrations, it makes you cheer for every breakthrough they make and gets you emotionally invested in saving Emma and praying for hope of a happy ending for all these guys.

Slaughter's depiction of situations is real and at times heartbreaking. See, I don't cry. No matter how emotional the book or movie. But when Will was trying to break their suspect into telling him where Emma was, and he used his own experiences to connect with the suspect and get him to talk and everything that happened thereafter - well, that was pretty heady stuff.
I hope she writes more Will Trent books. Go read this one people.

Visions of Heat (Psy-Changeling, #2) - Nalini Singh

2009-09-06T00:22:00.001+08:00

Used to cold silence, Faith NightStar is suddenly being tormented by dark visions of blood and murder. A bad sign for anyone, but worse for Faith, an F-Psy with the highly sought after ability to predict the future. Then the visions show her something even more dangerous - aching need... exquisite pleasure. But so powerful is her sight, so fragile the state of her mind, that the very emotions she yearns to embrace could be the end of her.

Changeling Vaughn D'Angelo can take either man or jaguar form, but it is his animal side that is overwhelmingly drawn to Faith. The jaguar's instinct is to claim this woman it finds so utterly fascinating, and the man has no argument. But while Vaughn craves sensation and hungers to pleasure Faith in every way, desire is a danger that could snap the last threads of her sanity. And there are Psy who need Faith's sight for their own purposes. They must keep her silenced - and keep her from Vaughn...
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book 2 in the Psy Changeling series features Vaughn - who is a jaguar living with the DarkRiver leopards.
Like Lucas from book 1, Vaughn also has demons in his past and the cat in him is more on the surface than the others.

Lucas finds Faiths house near the forest and then finds out the red headed Psy is looking for Sascha for answers to her own problems. Despite his attraction to Faith he still has trust issues with her and pushes her to her limit.

Faith is a F-Psy - a foreseer and she's now seeing strange dark violent visions instead of the business forecasts she usually makes. Thinking she is losing her mind, she turns to Sascha, the only Psy who wont report her to the Council. On the way she meets Vaughn, who her Psy mind finds intriguing and who is constantly touching her- a Psy who is not used to physical contact. I liked the character development of these two. Faith takes her own life in her own hands - Vaughn learns to share his life with someone else. I also liked Faiths predictions for the other changelings.

Well written book this. Although there wasn't the same connection between these two that Lucas and Sascha shared, it still made good reading. The interesting twists Faith brings to the book with her connection to the Psy-Net means the coming books are going to be interesting to read.

The Awakening (Leopard Series, #1) - Christine Feehan

2009-09-04T10:44:00.000+08:00

A beautiful naturalist's dream comes true-to live among the feral jungle creatures. But an untamed, irresistible beast of another sort inspires her to explore her own wild side.

Rating: 2.5 / 5
This short book was more world building for Feehan's Leopard Series than anything else. There wasn't much romance - a slight bit of erotica (mangoes and ice in the hot rain forests in Borneo...interesting) - a lot of ink spent on environmentalism, and no character depth or anything else in the book.

Brandt is the leader of the leopard pack that lives in the Borneo rain forest in Indonesia. Maggie is supposed to be his mate - he tracks her down, manipulates the situation so that she comes to the rain forest and when they meet promptly tells her she cant leave.
They're attracted to each other. A lot. Maggie puts up some token resistance at appropriate times, but mostly she wants him and thats that.
I didn't like the story much, everything was handled too weirdly for me. The actions of the characters lacked something. As if it was all happening to someone else. The pro-environment message was pretty good though.

Maybe I wasn't in the best frame of mind to read this. This wasn't Feehan's best book for me.

For a good review of this book, click here for Alaine's thoughts.

What are you reading Mondays?

2009-08-31T10:02:00.001+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by J. Kaye's Book Blog. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week

This was an interesting week. I started off reading Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier which i loved so much i couldn't stop thinking about it - and so couldn't pick up another book after reading it for a while. This one is definitely up there among my fav books for this year.

I also read the just released Hunting Ground, which is the second book from Patricia Briggs' Alpha & Omega Series. Then I went back and read the first book Cry Wolf. This couple have some interesting chemistry, and it was fun to get more of 'em.
Also read a bit of On the Prowl, the anthology which has the story of how Anna & Charles met and is the prequel to the Alpha & Omega Series.

Click on the links above to see my reviews

Planned this week:

Blood & Chocolate - Annette Curtis Klause

Caressed by Ice - Nalini Singh
Dime Store Magic - Kelley Armstrong

Happy Reading and have a great week!!!

Favourite lines:

There is no good or evil, save in the way you see the world. There is no dark or light, save in your own vision. All changes in the blink of an eyelid; yet all remains the same - Conor to Sorcha in Daughter of the Forest

Hunting Ground (Alpha & Omega, #2) - Patricia Briggs

2009-08-31T00:04:00.000+08:00

286 pages

Mated to werewolf Charles Cornick, the son—and enforcer—of the leader of the North American werewolves, Anna Latham now knows how dangerous being a werewolf is, especially when a werewolf who opposes Charles and his father is struck down. Charles’s reputation makes him the prime suspect, and the penalty for the crime is execution. Now Anna and Charles must combine their talents to hunt down the real killer—or Charles will take the fall

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My first thought when i finished reading this was there is so much more to this book than what the stupid blurb states. This is a pretty good book – although not as good as the first one Cry Wolf – but then pretty good from Patricia Briggs is better then the best by most authors.

Charles and Anna have been together for a month now. Anna still has problems with dominant alphas and all the horror of her past, but she and Charles are in love, and they're getting to know each other.

The timeline of this books coincides with book 3 of the Mercy Thompson Series Iron Kissed - Bran, the Marrok of the North American werewolves has decided to bring the werewolves out in the open, and has planned a meeting with the European alphas to address their issues first. Charles feels something will do wrong and so Charles and Anna go to meet the European wolves instead.

Trouble starts with vampires trying to kidnap Anna. The talks are at an impasse with Jean Chastel, the French alpha also known as Beast of Gévaudan, not agreeing to the suggestions Charles offers. Then, the death of the British alpha's mate. Matters get worse when one of the wolves Charles fights with is later found dead with Charles' scent all over him (won’t say who, gives away the plot then).

Anna & Charles now have to figure who the real killer is before an execution order is made out for Charles..and Anna will need all her Omega abilities to save Charles' life

There was something missing in this book, but i can't put my finger on it. The real villian and the motives were definitely a surprise, i didn't guess who it was till the end. But for most of the book I felt like the situations kept getting cut off, the story changed to different peoples points of view too quickly and most of the time i would have liked to have known more from the previous person's viewpoint. Other than that, this was a pretty good story, my only other complaint being it was too quick a read.

Theres new characters in this book that you'll love. Arthur, the British alpha who thinks he's the re-incarnation of The Arthur, Chastile who they call the Beast, the other older alpha's who've been around a while, Dana the fae who oversees the meetings. A bit of legend and folklore added in as well - which always interests me. Plus there's a bit of Bran - i find him very enigmatic.

I love Briggs werewolves series. The world building is amazing. The third book comes out only next August, so rereads will have to do until then.

Favourite line:
His grandfather had often told him that he tried too hard to move trees when a wiser man would walk around them.

Cry Wolf (Alpha & Omega, #1) - Patricia Briggs

2009-08-31T00:02:00.000+08:00

269 pages

Anna never knew werewolves existed until the night she survived a violent attack and became one herself. After three years at the bottom of the pack, she'd learned to keep her head down and never, ever trust dominant males. But Anna is that rarest kind of werewolf: an Omega. And one of the most powerful werewolves in the country will recognize her value as a pack member, and as his mate

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lovely book this. Cry Wolf is the first book of a new series set in the same world as the Mercedes Thompson Series and tells the story of Charles Cornick, the son of the Marrok of North America and his new found mate and Omega, Anna. The initial story of how the two met was in the anthology On the Prowl.

Anna was Changed against her will and abused in her past pack as a means to keep her in line and help keep the Alpha's crazy mate in check. Charles, as his father's executioner takes care of the problem and having pronounced Anna as his mate, the two along with his father Bran are back at the pack lands at Aspen Creek.

Anna is trying to get used to her new world and apparent mate Charles, but the demons in her past are hard to slay and trust is something that takes time to come by. Their mate bond isn't sealed yet, and a rogue werewolf has been killing humans in the mountains and Charles, still not healed from his bullet wounds from Chicago, is the only one who can get rid of this problem

But there's more to this rogue werewolf who's trying to attract one particular werewolf from Bran's pack. The past catches up with Asil, also known as the Moor, a werewolf in Bran's pack whose dead mate used to be an Omega, and also Bran who faces a repeat of the nightmares of his past.

It is up to Charles and Anna to save the situation and each other while learning to get used to and trust one another.

This was a great book. Charles, who everyone thinks of as his father's ruthless thug, shows as side of himself not many have seen before, with this love and protectiveness of Anna. A side Charles didn't know he had - and i liked reading how he adored Anna, not for her Omega abilities, but for who she is. He needed her and found it hard not to show it. ("If she knew how strongly he felt, she'd have run out the door. He wasn't used to the possessive, or the savage joy she brought to his heart")

Anna, who was abused in her previous pack, is learning more about being an Omega is while at the same time trying to learn more about the man who is her mate. She learns to trust and eventually love Charles and you see her trying to leave the fear behind ("She wondered that hope was so much harder than despair") and slowly grow in confidence in her abilities, herself and her relationship with Charles.

Go read this book. If you love the Mercy Series, you'll love this. If you haven't read the Mercy series yet, you'll still love it.

Some more of my favourite lines:
Identity was partly heritage, partly upbringing, but mostly the choices you make in life.

“Illegitimis nil carborundum,” she murmured....
“Don’t let the bastards grind you down?” said Bran from her doorway. He was looking at her like a child who had been unexpectedly clever. “That’s horrible Latin, and your pronunciation needs some work.”
“It’s my father’s fault,” she told him, rubbing her shoulder...“He had a couple of years of Latin in college and used it to amuse himself. Everyone in my family picked it up. His favorite saying was, 'Interdum feror cupidine partium magnarum europe vincendarum.’”
“ ‘Sometimes I have the urge to conquer large parts of Europe’?” Bran said, sounding a little incredulous.
She nodded. “Usually he only said it when my brother or I were being particularly horrible.”
“And it was his favorite saying?” Bran said, examining her as if she were a bug…but a bug he was growing pleased with.
She said, “My brother was a brat.”

The Chunkster Challenge 2009 - DONE!!!

2009-08-30T20:58:00.000+08:00

Whew.. i never thought i'd be able to finish this one... I love reading chunky books, but it takes a while to find a good one that i can get my hands on, and then review as well.

I'd chosen the Mor-book-ly Obese challenge - 6 or more chunksters OR three tomes of 750 pages or more.

Here's my list:

1. A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry (716 pages)
2. The Navigator by Clive Cussler (560 pages)
3. The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien (576 pages)
4. Jacquot and the Angel - Martin O'Brien (544 pages)
5. Dark Demon (Carpathians, #16) by Christine Feehan (531 pages)
6. Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier (560 pages)

Daughter of the Forest (Sevenwaters Trilogy, Book 1) - Juliet Marillier

2009-08-28T11:48:00.002+08:00

560 Pages

Fantasy

At the heart of this surprisingly accomplished first novel, first book of the Sevenwaters trilogy, is a retelling of an ancient Celtic legend. Marillier's story, however, is much more than a slightly disguised fairy tale. Young Sorcha is the seventh child and only daughter of Irish Lord Colum of Sevenwaters, a domain well protected from invading Saxons and Britons by dense forest where, legend says, fey Deirdre, the Lady of the Forest, walks the woodland paths at night. Colum is first and foremost a warrior, bent on maintaining his lands against all outsiders. Not all of his sons are so bound to the old ways, and that family friction leads to outright disobedience when Sorcha and her brother Finbar help a Briton captive escape from Colum's dungeon. Soon after, Colum brings home a new wife who ensorcels everyone she can't otherwise manipulate. By her spell Sorcha's brothers are cursed to become swans. Only Sorcha, hiding deep in the forest, can break the spell by painfully weaving shirts of starwort nettle--but then Sorcha is captured by Britons and taken away across the sea. Determined to break the curse despite her captivity, Sorcha continues to work, little expecting that ultimately she will have to chose between saving her brothers and protecting the Briton lord who has defended her throughout her trials. Marillier's writing is deft and heartfelt, bypassing the usual bombast of fantasy fireworks for a rich, magical story of loyalty and love

Rating: 5/5.. more like 5+ + +

The one thing I kept wondering once I finished this book was why have I never heard about this book before. Fantastic and amazing are words that come to mind to describe The Daughter of the Forest.

I could not put this down for a minute - stayed up till 5.30 reading this on a workday, and amidst a lot of yawing the next day I couldn't get this book out of my mind. Still can't.

Daughter of the Forest has its basis on ancient Celtic legend where the Fair Folk walked the lands of the forest along with other mythical beings. But at its core, this is a story of love, loyalty and strength of character.

Sorcha is the seventh child of Lord Colum, the Irish Lord of Sevenwaters, whose domain is well protected by the magical forests that surround it. Their mother died after giving birth to Sorcha, and her six brothers raise her a strong, free-willed, well protected and loved girl. I loved the concept of the seven siblings taking strength from each other.

So close were we, the seven of us, that no childhood injury went unnoticed, no slight, real or imagined, went unaddressed, no hurt was endured without comfort...The strength of one is the strength of seven

Sorcha is strong, brave, tough, a healer and a fighter in her own way. She has a special bond with all her brothers - but most of all with Finbar - a character I came to admire a lot. Finbar is far too old for his years, too mature with his ability to see into the future.

"Faith in myself," he said simply. "To do what's right, and not falter, no matter how hard it gets." - Finbar when talking about the gifts their mother left each of her children

Things start changing for Sorcha, not yet a teenager, when a Briton - Calum's sworn enemies - is captured. Finbar and Sorcha help to rescue the tortured man, a teenager himself - and Sorcha helps try to heal him. Calum then marries again - a Sorceress. In classic fairy tale format, the evil stepmother wants to get rid of the kids - and turns the sons into swans.

What follows is a nightmarish ordeal that Sorcha has to bare alone and silently to get her brothers back. On the way she meets another Briton - one who rescues her, takes her home, is there for her and defends her at every step of the way.

This is a tale of sacrifice at the highest level. This book for me had many levels, each more profound, delightful and heartbreaking at the same time. Fate has many twists and turns planned, and even those who can see the future can scarcely keep up with it.

I was happy for Sorcha in the end, but my heart went out to Finbar. The weird this is now everytime they show a swan on TV (they aren't flying around in Singapore, so where else would I see any) I think of Finbar. Someone who wanted to make the world a better place, whose faith in himself and his beliefs weren't enough to deal with the cruel game life played on him.

You take a lot of good stuff away from this book. Some I'll remember for a long time.

There is no good or evil, save in the way you see the world. There is no dark or light, save in your own vision. All changes in the blink of an eyelid; yet all remains the same.

(I added an alternate jacket cover as well - it was too beautiful to leave out)

What are you reading Mondays?

2009-08-24T10:07:00.004+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by J. Kaye's Book Blog. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week

Was on leave from work the whole of last week to spend time with the boyfriend who was visiting. Hadn't planned on reading anything, but then the bookstore called to tell me they had Richelle Mead's Blood Promise in already - couldn't resist obviously. Stayed up reading till 5.30.

Also finished the 2009 Young Adult Book Challenge with this book. Didn't think i'd enjoy YA books so much.

I'll probably catch up on reviews of the first 3 Vampire Academy books by Richelle Mead this coming week.

I'm a bit behind on the August Paranormal reading challenge on Goodreads. Have these books to read, which have been on my list for real long so looking forward to 'em -

Iron Kissed – Patricia Briggs pg 25

Up in Smokes - Katie MacAlister pg 71

Undead & Unwed - Mary JaniceDavidson

Beyond the Highland Mist - Karen Marie Moning

Happy Reading everyone!!

Quote for the week:

Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if only one remembers to turn on the light - Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling

2009 Young Adult Book Challenge - DONE!!!

2009-08-24T09:51:00.004+08:00

This was my first year of reading YA, and i don't think i'd have read that many YA books and just stuck to paperback thrillers and paranormal if not for this challenge. So thanks J Kaye.

My list of YA books
1. The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling
2. Twilight - Stephenie Meyer
3. New Moon - Stephenie Meyer
4. Eclipse - Stephenie Meyer
5. Breaking Dawn - Stephenie Meyer
6. Midnight Sun - Stephenie Meyer
7. The Princess Bride by William Goldman
8. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
9. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
10. Graceling - Kristin Cashore
11. To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
12. Blood Promise - Richelle Mead

Blood Promise (Vampire Academy, #4) - Richelle Mead

2009-08-21T12:46:00.000+08:00

480 pages.
DIMITRI'S HEART HAS GONE DARK
Now Rose must journey to the ends of the earth to find--and kill--her one true love...
Or has the time come to join him?
BOUND BY LOVE, BUT SWORN TO KILL...
The rest of the world had considered Dimitri dead. And to a certain extent, he was. But I hadn't been able to forget a conversation he and I had once had. We'd both agreed that we'd rather be dead—truly dead—than walk the world as Strigoi. It was time to honor our words.

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This one gets 5 stars for a lot of reasons
I really really wanted to read this to find out what happens next even if i have been late latching on to the Vampire Academy series, i took the trouble to pre-order it even, i sat up till 5.30 reading it...and well, it was really really good.
Rose has left St Vladimir's to find and kill Dimitri, and she's gone to his hometown to do so thinking that's where he would have gone.
Can't give a lot away, but she obviously meets Dimitri - The Strigoi. And on the way we meet a wonderful cast of characters, some of whom i hope are in the coming books too - including Dimitri's damphir family. Rose has huge decisions to make in this book - and her guilt at leaving Lissa and everyone else behind doesn't help either.

She loves Dmitri's family, she has a Moroi who wants her gone from Russia although she doesn't know why, she thinks Lissa doesn't want her anymore and wants to stay in Russia with the Belikovs, but then there's Dimitri and the promise she made of killing him.
Damn, i really can't say that much without giving away spoilers, and i really don't want to. Suffice to say it was heartbreaking what she had to go through with Dimitri as a strigoi. Does she kill him, does she turn strigoi herself, or just leave and go away. Didn't know what would happen until it did. The only think i was sure of was that she couldn't die seeing as there were supposed to be more books coming out - which was little consolation considering the suspense which kept building up slowly.

Meanwhile Lissa has a new friend at St. Vladimir, and more politics with the queen - and things aren't right on both counts. The one person that i really really fell in love with even more was Adrian. He certainly developed more as a character - he still has feelings for Rose, and his concern for others around him and his actions make him grow on you.
There's no real happy ever after at the end, but a huge promise of maybe there might be one after all in the coming books.
The only annoying part now is waiting for the next book Spirit Bound which doesn't even have a release date yet.

PS: If this review makes even less sense than my other ramblings, it could be from staying up all night reading the book and no sleep for 36 hrs does that to me sometimes. But was totally worth it.

What are you reading Mondays?

2009-08-17T22:05:00.000+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by J. Kaye's Book Blog. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week

My boyfriend's visiting this week, so no time to add any reviews for books i read last week and no reading this week.

Slave to Sensation - Psy-Changeling 1 - Nalini Singh
Visions of Heat - Psy-Changeling 2 - Nalini Singh 4/4 on this one. More emphasis on the plot in these books, which i always like.

Read all 3 Vampire Academy books by Richelle Mead. Well, i could not just read one book and not pick up the next one immediately to see what happens next. Waiting anxiously for the 4th one, which my bookstore tells me will only be here early September :(

Vampire Academy - Richelle Mead
Frostbite - Richelle Mead
Shadow Kissed - Richelle Mead

Favourite line: The greatest and most powerful revolutions often start very quietly, hidden in the shadows - Vampire Academy - Richelle Mead

2nds Challenge, 2009 - DONE!!!

2009-08-11T13:07:00.004+08:00

Another challenge done. This one was fun as it involved reading authors I've only read once before, and it took a while finding good first books so i would want to read another. Click here for more info on the challenge

Here's my list:

1. Mitch Albom: The 5 people you meet in Heaven (Previously read Tuesdays with Morrie)

2. Keri Arthur: Kissing Sin (Previously read Full Moon Rising)

3. Christine Feehan: Dark Secret (Previously read Dark Prince)

4. Jeaniene Frost: One Foot in the Grave (Previously read Halfway to the Grave)

5. Charlaine Harris: Living Dead in Dallas (Previously read Dead Until Dark )

6. J. R. Ward: Lover Eternal (Previously read Dark Lover)

7. Lisa Kleypas: Scandal in Spring (Previously read Devil in Winter)

8. Stephenie Meyer: New Moon (Previously read Twilight)

9. J. R. R. Tolkien: The Hobbit (Previously read The Lord of the Rings)

10. Katie MacAlister : Fire Me Up (Previously read You Slay Me )

11. Patricia Briggs: Blood Bound (Previously read Moon Called )

12. Nalini Singh: Slave to Sensation (Previously read Angels' Blood )

Slave to Sensation - Nalini Singh

2009-08-11T11:53:00.000+08:00

334 pages
In a world that denies emotions, where the ruling Psy punish any sign of desire, Sascha Duncan must conceal the feelings that brand her as flawed. To reveal them would be to sentence herself to the horror of "rehabil' ' n"—the complete psychic erasure of everything she ever was...
Both human and animal, Lucas Hunter is a changeling hungry for the very sensations the Psy disdain. After centuries of uneasy coexistence, these two races are now on the verge of war over the brutal murders of several changeling women. Lucas is determined to find the Psy killer who butchered his packmate, and Sascha is his ticket into their closely guarded society. But he soon discovers that this ice- cold Psy is very capable of passion—and that the animal in him is fascinated by her. Caught between their conflicting worlds, Lucas and Sascha must remain bound to their identities—or sacrifice everything for a taste of darkest temptation...

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I heard so many good things about this book, I was a bit wary starting it as I really did not want to be disappointed. And thankfully I wasn’t.
This is a good first novel to the series and I'll definitely be reading more

Sascha Duncan is a Psy - a future race bred from humans but different in that they're not supposed to feel emotion. But she does. And it makes her feel flawed. These feelings intensify when she's near Lucas Hunter. Lucas is the alpha of his leopard pack - a changeling. Changelings are part human part animal.
In the future earth, the world is controlled by the Psy with their calculating logic and efficiency and co-inhabited by Humans and the Changelings.
Lucas gets into a business arrangement with the Duncan family in the hopes of learning something from the Psy in charge of the project - changeling women have been brutally tortured and killed by a Psy. With no one doing anything about it, Sascha is his only chance to finding answers before a bloody war breaks out among the two races - but what both don’t anticipate is the intense attraction between them.

This was a great novel - I liked Sascha's character - she's strong and has been hiding her 'flaw' since she was a child. Despite being put in situations that are overwhelming she's maintains control of her mind & body. She stubborn and despite being brought up in a world of no feeling, knows when sacrifices need to be made and is not afraid to make them.
I liked Lucas' tormented character too - although his past was mentioned many times he grew from his experiences and Singh didn’t make him one of those brooding characters so tormented that he stunts his present and future. He was a strong alpha who ruled by his instincts and invoked loyalty among the pack with his actions.
I usually find i like only one of the main characters and the other isn't given the same amount of depth. But Singh does a good job building both Lucas and Sascha into strong individuals who don't overwhelm the other's person but compliment it.

The author did a very good job with the world building for future books - innovating idea. A complex world but created in such a simple manner it wasn’t hard to understand and get immersed in. Although I guessed who the villain was, it was a good read till the end, if a little lacking in a explosive ending
I'll be waiting to read books on some of my other fav characters - Dorian, Hawke and Vaughn.
Happily jumping on the bandwagon to say - GO READ THIS BOOK.

What are you reading Mondays?

2009-08-10T18:11:00.001+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by J. Kaye's Book Blog. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week

Read some fun books this week:

Masques - Patricia Briggs

One of Briggs first books, lovely read. 4/5

The Horseman's Son - Delores Fossen

got this free from HQ. 3/5

A Dirty Job - Christopher Moore

Too funny. 5/5

The Secret - Julie Garwood

Read this again, liked it too much. 5/5

This week:

Slave to Sensation - Nalini Singh (pg 25)
Undead and Unwed - MaryJanice Davidson
Vampire Academy - Richelle Mead

Favourite line:
When I die of heart failure the next time you frighten me like that, you can put that on my gravestone—‘I didn’t mean to startle her' - Masques - Patricia Briggs

Happy Reading!!

The Secret - Julie Garwood

2009-08-10T17:51:00.000+08:00

The Secret by Julie Garwood

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Go read this book.
This is a story of two 4-year-old girls who “became friends before they were old enough to understand they were supposed to hate each other.” Judith is English while Francis Catherine is Scottish.

Years later Francis Catherine is pregnant and she sends her husband's brother, the Laird of the Maitlands to get Judith from England in keeping with their long ago promise to be there during the birth.
Iain, the Laird comes to bring Judith to Maitland Land, and the two fall for each other during the journey. Sparks fly between these two amidst their constant verbal sparring and trying not to care for each other but unable to control the attraction.
Iain is one hot Laird – he’s arrogant, used to getting his way, but also honourable and with a protective streak, specially towards Judith.
Judith is a strong willed, stubborn and loving.
Read this book – it makes awesome reading. You’ll be laughing a lot.

Francis Catherine on pregnancy:
"Once they get married, the papa spits into his goblet of wine and then he makes the mama take a big drink. As soon as she swallows, she's got a baby in her stomach."

Judith: "Mama says I shouldn't even want to talk to the damn Scots."
Francis Catherine: "Papa, am I damn Scots?"
Francis Catherine’s father: "You most certainly are not."
"Am I?" Judith asked, her worry obvious in her voice.
"You're English, Judith," her friend's papa patiently explained.
Judith: "Am I damn English?"
Her friend's papa was clearly exasperated. "Nobody's damn anything,"

The perfect proposal:
The moment needed to be perfect for her. "Judith," he began.
"Yes, Iain?"
"I'm keeping you."

Francis Catherine: "Did you marry Iain?"
Judith: "I think so.'"
Francis Catherine: "What do you mean, you think so?"
Judith: "Graham was standing between us. I might have married him. No, I'm certain it was Iain. He kissed me after… Graham didn't."

A Dirty Job - Christopher Moore

2009-08-07T11:54:00.002+08:00

416 pages
The Quill Book Award for General Fiction (2006)

Charlie Asher is a pretty normal guy with a normal life, married to a bright and pretty woman who actually loves him for his normalcy. They're even about to have their first child. Yes, Charlie's doing okay—until people start dropping dead around him, and everywhere he goes a dark presence whispers to him from under the streets. Charlie Asher, it seems, has been recruited for a new position: as Death.
It's a dirty job. But, hey! Somebody's gotta do it

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was some book. Filled with humor at every other line and at the same time addressing loss, heartache and moving on.
This book was a real joy to read - quirky humor that kept my laughing almost all throughout.

Charlie is a beta male extremely devoted to his wife. In her hospital room after delivering their baby, Charlie sees a man in a green mint suit who shouldn’t have been seen by anybody. And that’s when Charlie's life changes. His wife has died, he has a new baby daughter he doesn’t know how to care for, and now people are dying around him - all too much for a Beta male's imagination to handle. But then, Beta males are conditioned to endure and make it -
"The Beta Male gene has survived not by meeting and overcoming adversity, but by anticipating and avoiding it"

Moore creates an interesting concept on the soul. Put simply - you aren't born with one but you get one when you're ready for it. Charlie is now a Death Merchant - someone who collects souls from the dying (the soul vessels are material objects that the dying person was senti about. Materialism and the soul - talk about irony) and passes them on those who don’t have souls yet. He needs to collect the souls before the Gods of the underworld get their hands on them and feed off them to grow stronger and eventually bring darkness on us all.

Read this book - in its happy pages it brings up a lot of thinking material (hospice nurses taking care of the dying, the feeling of loss and pain when you lose a spouse, the concept of death and a whole lot more)

Some of the lines:

Charlie: “A speech disorder! A speech disorder! A cute lisp is a speech disorder. My daughter kills people with the word kitty. I had to keep my hand over her mouth all the way home. There’s probably video somewhere. People thought I was one of those people who beats their kid in department stores.”
Minty Fresh: “Don’t be ridiculous, Charlie, people love the parents who beat their kids in department stores. It’s the ones who just let their kids wreak havoc that everybody hates.”

Charlie: "I don’t think she’s seeing anybody, but since the world is about to be taken over by the Forces of Darkness, you may not have time for dating

And my favourite: Can a conscience be greedy?

The Horseman's Son - Delores Fossen

2009-08-05T00:01:00.002+08:00

224 pages
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Too many things were happening in this story too fast and at the same time.
Dylan has just caught an intruder who claims she's his adopted son's mother and the adoption was illegal. He past is filled with girlfriends beaten up and his fiance & sister killed by someone who's not been caught yet.
Collena busted the crime ring that stole her son, but now one of them has escaped prison and is out to get her.
She wants her son back, but doesn't want to take him from the father he's known for a year - solution: Marriage
Only lots of people are after them - and it gets a bit much trying to figure out who the bad guys are and which one of them did which crime.
Nice story tho

Masques (Sianim, #1) - Patricia Briggs

2009-08-04T14:47:00.000+08:00

127 pages

When the peaceful kingdom of Reth is overrun by Geofrrey ae'Magi, the evil master of illusion, Aralorn, weaponsmistress of the shapechanging race, and her companion, Wolf, attempt to overthrow him.

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Funny thing about this book - hard to find it in libraries and book stores, there aren't many hard copies available - but you can find it for free online.

Lady Aralorn is a shapeshifter who works as a spy. She's charming, humourous, courageous and has a knack for folklore. Wolf is a powerful magician with a scarred tortured past where he wasn't on the good side. He prefers to avoid human contact and stays in wolf form - hence the name. However Aralorn helped him once and he finds he keeps returning for her company.

They're only friends for almost all of the book, and only towards the end do they voice their feelings out. There was one kiss somewhere in between, which you almost miss, so this is no romance book. What i liked was their understanding of each other - they knew what to say or do and what the other needed better than the person themselves. Aralorn uses her wit and simple gestures to show Wolf she cares or to calm him down - and that was one of the reason i read this till 4 this morning.

The villain in this book in an archimage who has everyone's affections and is described as charming and full of laughter. But behind closed doors he's creating new monsters and doing horrible things to children to increase his power - and not enough people know this to be able to stop him without reprisal.
The final showdown between the couple and the archimage was more a blip than a bang - but I've realised that Briggs usually does things subtly and while she's refined her style over the years, this book follows in the same pattern.

This is one of Patricia Briggs early works, and in a way it does show. A lot of things went unexplained, the characters aren't black and white, they don't have the depth of character that you see in her Mercy Thompson series for example. But its a great story nonetheless.

Favourite line:
"When I die of heart failure the next time you frighten me like that, you can put that on my gravestone—‘I didn’t mean to startle her'"

Lynn Viehl's Darkyn Series Reading Challenge

2009-08-04T09:43:00.002+08:00

I have a couple of books from this series on my TBR pile so i figured i might as well give this one a try.

This challenge is hosted by J Kaye, and very simply is to read the entire series by Dec 2010

Here's the series in order:

Darkyn

1. If Angels Burn (2005)

2. Private Demon (2005)

3. Dark Need (2006)

4. Night Lost (2007)

5. Evermore (2008)

6. Twilight Fall (2008)

7. Stay the Night (2009)

Head on here to see more info and sign up

What are you reading Mondays?

2009-08-03T20:17:00.001+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by J. Kaye's Book Blog. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week

I spent the week finishing books that I've been reading bits and pieces of for a while now. Also was at home on Friday, so had a lotta time on my hands. These are short reads..some of them. So its a bigger haul this week

>>> To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
>>> Destined for an Early Grave - Jeaniene Frost (5/5) Loved it, Loved it, Loved it!!
>>> The Secret by Julie Garwood - absolutely lovely. review pending.
>>> The White Tiger - Aravind Adiga
>>> Triad by Lauren Dane (2/5) - Didn't like this as much as Dane's Chase Brother's series
>>> Understood by Maya Banks (3/5) nice romance
>>> Two Sighted Annmarie McKenna (3/5) also nice romance
>>> Under the covers - Eve Adams (3/5) erotic romance, good plot
>>> Triple Threat - Jennifer Labrecque (2/5) very very short story

This Week's Reading List:
Coyote's Mate - Lora Leigh - pg 100 - Heartbreaking. Not erotica. Good plot
Slave to Sensation - Nalini Singh
On Chesil Beach - Ian McEwan

Favourite line of the week: The one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience - To Kill a Mockingbird

To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee

2009-08-02T23:10:00.000+08:00

Pulitzer Prize for Fiction (1961)
336 pages

A gripping, heart-wrenching, and wholly remarkable tale of coming-of-age in a South poisoned by virulent prejudice, it views a world of great beauty and savage inequities through the eyes of a young girl, as her father—a crusading local lawyer—risks everything to defend a black man unjustly accused of a terrible crime.
Synopsis
At the age of eight, Scout Finch is an entrenched free-thinker. She can accept her father's warning that it is a sin to kill a mockingbird, because mockingbirds harm no one and give great pleasure. The benefits said to be gained from going to school and keeping her temper elude her.
The place of this enchanting, intensely moving story is Maycomb, Alabama. The time is the Depression, but Scout and her brother, Jem, are seldom depressed. They have appalling gifts for entertaining themselves—appalling, that is, to almost everyone except their wise lawyer father, Atticus.
Atticus is a man of unfaltering good will and humor, and partly because of this, the children become involved in some disturbing adult mysteries: fascinating Boo Radley, who never leaves his house; the terrible temper of Mrs. Dubose down the street; the fine distinctions that make the Finch family "quality"; the forces that cause the people of Maycomb to show compassion in one crisis and unreasoning cruelty in another.
Also because Atticus is what he is, and because he lives where he does, he and his children are plunged into a conflict that indelibly marks their lives—and gives Scout some basis for thinking she knows just about as much about the world as she needs to

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
No review - Just some of my favourite lines

"Before I can live with other folks I’ve got to livewith myself. The one thing that doesn’t abide by majority rule is a person’s conscience.”

"There are just some kind of men who’re so busy worrying about the next world they’ve never learned to live in this one"

"You never really know a man until you stand in his shoes and walk around in them."

I dunno what took me so long to get to this one

Destined for an Early Grave (Night Huntress, #4) - Jeaniene Frost

2009-08-01T20:33:00.001+08:00

355 pages

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stayed up reading this till 5 am and was completely worth it.
Cat and Bones are back – and on holiday. Cat has resigned from her job and Bones has settled all affairs from the vampire war in book 3 - At Grave's End
Cat starts dreaming of another vampire, Gregor – who has connections to her past from before she met Bones, Gregor claims she's his wife and wants her back. Cat keeps Bones, who can now read minds, out of her mind with mental shields – and that leaves Bones wondering what she’s hiding or not telling him. Cat, in typical Cat manner also does some things without thinking in entirely through, thinking she’s helping save the day. Enter Mistrust and a lack of communication that leads to things getting even worse.

Cat and Bones both being head strong individuals do things their own way - thinking they’re protecting the other – and that leads to a huge fight which made for very horrible reading since I love these two, but at the same time I kinda agreed with the things Bones said. Heartbeaking stuff.
Things obviously get worse before they get better. In the end, it was adds up to an awesome read that still has me left with a huge grin on my face.

The old characters are back – specially my two favourite ones - Spade, who was too cute as he kept trying to get the fighting couple back together and Vlad, as the voice of reason proved to be a very good friend to Cat
Mencheres, Rodney, Annette and Justina are back too – things don’t turn out well for some of them. There’s also Fabian – the friendly ghost who helped a lot.

Amid the fighting, splitting, and eventual getting back together, there’s the trademark Frost one-liners that make this series one of my favourites. Midway during reading the book, I realized that everytime Bones had a line, I’d be reading it to myself with an imagined British accent.

Cat, while waiting in line at the loo in Paris:
“He fucks even better than he looks,” I settled on saying. Several heads turned. I didn’t care; I was pissed. “And that beautiful face is going to be clamped between my legs as soon as we get ooome, don’t you worry.”

The fear of that made my reply snappy. “Hey, Walks Like An Egyptian, how about for once you drop the formal stuff and talk like you live in the twenty‐first century?”
“The shit’s gonna splatter, start buggin’, yo,” Mencheres responded instantly.
I stared at him, then burst out laughing, which was highly inappropriate considering the very grave warning he’d just conveyed.

Spade: Lucifer’s bloody balls, is this why you haven’t returned my calls?”
Spade: “Lucifer’s hairy ball sack. You’ve become a Morlock.”

Bones: “Don’t care for her tongue, do you? How strange. I find it’s one of my favorite parts.”

There’s a new book on Spade and Denise coming out Jan 2010 : First Drop of Crimson.. Cant wait for that one. See more here

The White Tiger - Aravind Adiga

2009-07-29T16:53:00.001+08:00

The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
276 pages
Man Booker Prize 2008; Galaxy British Book Awards Author of the Year

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
"The story of a poor man's life is written on his body, in a sharp pen."
I did not expect to like or enjoy this book. As an Indian, I usually don’t like books written about the poor where they're describing abysmal living conditions or other horrible situations. It isn't a question of whether these things happen or not, but more a case of sensationalising and exaggerating the poor with the intention of gaining literary recognition or popularity as an author. All under the guise of showing the world the 'Real India'.
I think its crap
Its sad that they never write about the good stuff or the people who've had good lives and made it better. Good stuff doesn't sell books though.
Besides, I think you can't know poor unless you've lived it or seen it - and I doubt any of these authors have.

Getting back to the book now, like I said - I thought I wouldn’t like this book.
But I did.
There wasn’t anything in there I could identify with as an Indian - but at the same time I can see a lot of it could have happened to different people.
This was a refreshing read.
The book is written as a series of letters to the Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao who is supposed to be visiting India soon and is meant to show a side of India that the premier would not be privy to otherwise. It is written by Balram - a man who grew up in one of the nameless and faceless villages in India and made it out of the Darkness of his existence into the world of the rich - or the Light.
"India is two countries in one: an India of Light, and an India of Darkness. The ocean brings light to my country. Every place on the map of India near the ocean is well off. But the river brings darkness to India - the black river "

Balram is ambitious - a trait a poor man is conditioned not to have. He's a thinker. And he uses these skills to make it out of his village and the rut every poor man is in. By observing. By thinking. By killing his employer. And building a new life for himself.
His letter to the premier Wen describe how he came to be the entrepreneur he is today. With words that you wont forget long after you've finished this book.

Balram writes a lot about the relationship between a servant and his employer - and on some level this doesn’t apply only to the poor and their richer masters but to everyone who depends on another for their livelihood.

Balram's thoughts when his employer Ashok is contemplating life after his wife has just left him:
- "The point of living? The point of your living is that if you die, who's going to pay me three and a half thousand rupees a month?"

- "It squeezed my heart to see him suffer like this—but where my genuine concern for him ended and where my self-interest began, I could not tell: no servant can ever tell what the motives of his heart are. Do we loathe our masters behind a facade of love—or do we love them behind a facade of loathing?"

And a very interesting way of describing why the poor stay poor with an analogy on chickens in a rooster coup:
Hundreds of pale hens and brightly colored roosters, stuffed tightly into wire-mesh cages ….jostling just for breathing space…On the wooden desk above this coop sits a grinning young butcher, showing off the flesh and organs of a recently chopped-up chicken, still oleaginous with a coating of dark blood. The roosters in the coop smell the blood from above. They see the organs of their brothers lying around them. They know they're next. Yet they do not rebel. They do not try to get out of the coop"
.
.
"Every day, on the roads of Delhi, some chauffeur is driving an empty car with a black suitcase sitting on the backseat. Inside that suitcase is a million, two million rupees; more money than that chauffeur will see in his lifetime. If he took the money he could go to America, Australia, anywhere, and start a new life. He could go inside the five-star hotels he has dreamed about all his life and only seen from the outside. He could take his family to Goa, to England. Yet he takes that black suitcase where his master wants. He puts it down where he is meant to, and never touches a rupee. Why?
Because Indians are the world's most honest people, like the prime minister's booklet will inform you? No. It's because 99.9 percent of us are caught in the Rooster Coop just like those poor guys in the poultry market."

And some more interesting lines:
- "You were looking for the key for years / But the door was always open!"

- But what is the use of winning a battle when you don't even know that there is a war going on?

This isn't a book to read if you want to know the "real India". But it is entertaining. And what makes it a good book are words like the ones I've quoted above - observations that you realise have a grain of truth in them. Observations that are put in a unique manner that made me turn the page and realise this is good fiction.

New Author Challenge - DONE!!!

2009-07-28T10:14:00.002+08:00

I didn't expect to finish this one so soon. I've definitely read more than 25 authors by now, but chose to only include those where I've written a review of their books here on the blog.

So here goes

For more info on this challenge go here

What are you reading Mondays?

2009-07-27T19:50:00.001+08:00

This is a weekly Meme run by J. Kaye's Book Blog. Post the books completed last week, the books you are currently reading, and the books you hope to finish this week.
I cant seem to add any pics to my blog this week, so its a pictureless Monday.

I read quite a bit this week. Most of these were short, finish in a couple of hours stuff. The ones i really liked were Graceling, which is awesome and Destiny Kills - can't not like things by Keri Arthur.

Books Completed Last Week:

Wicked Burn - Beth Kery

Graceling - Kristin Cashore - Highly recommended. Awesome read.

Destiny Kills - Keri Arthur Yes, finally i did read the book. Loved it.

Her Best Friend's Lover - Shiloh Walker - a sweet romance.

A Quick Bite - Lynsay Sands - funny vampire read. Mostly silly at times.

This Week's Reading List:

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee Still on Chapter 1

The Secret by Julie Garwood pg 244 and loving it

Triad by Lauren Dane: pg 58. Not liking it so far

Happy Reading Everyone.

Her Best Friend's Lover - Shiloh Walker

2009-07-27T12:14:00.002+08:00

264 pages
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Dale loves women, and they love him. His love life is a revolving door. No one special, no one stays, except Lauren, his best friend. She's a sweet beautiful, talented woman. His rock, the steadying influence in his life. So why is he starting to see her differently, where are these lustful thoughts coming from? Guys don't sleep with their best friends. Lauren has loved Dale for five years, from the moment she saw him. She loves his smile, his walk, his deep, sexy voice. But he isn't in love with her. She's his pal, his confidant. Until one hot, steamy night.

Lovely read that you might need tissues for.
He thinks he's in love with a childhood sweetheart who he lost to some other guy, and all the women are just substitutes.
She's loved him for years but knows he only sees her as a friend.
Then things change when she goes to apologise to him one night only to find him drunk out of his mind. They go at it, he imagines she's the childhood chick and says so. She leaves him sleeping and hopefully not remembering.
Now she's pregnant - but should she tell him? Will she loose everything she's wanted all over again?
This was a moving story - with quite a bit of sex. To go from best friends to lovers to people who have to learn to trust in each other without hurting the other any more.

A lot of philosophy in the book too. Nice true sad philosophy:
"She had wanted, she had hoped, but she had never expected to receive anything. And she had learned long ago, to pretend not to want something. That way, it hurt less when you didn’t get it."

Destiny Kills - Keri Arthur

2009-07-26T18:11:00.002+08:00

Desire Calls. Danger Lurks.
But…
Destiny Kills

When Destiny McCree wakes up beside a dead man on an Oregon beach, she knows only this: she has to keep moving, keep searching, and keep one step ahead of the forces that have been pursuing her from the heart of Scotland to this isolated spot. Why? The death of her lover has left her alone, with little memory of her past. A glimmering serpent-shaped ring is the one clue she has—and a bargaining chip in a most dangerous game…
Enter Trae Wilson, a master thief with a sexy, knowing grin and a secret agenda of his own. Destiny and Trae both have powers far beyond the human—and both are running for their lives. Together they’re riding a tide of danger, magic and lust…but with killers stalking their every move, they must use any means necessary, even each other, to survive—until the shocking secret of one woman’s destiny finally unravels…

321 Pages

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Destiny is a half air dragon and half sea dragon who’s just escaped from a facility that’s been kidnapping and experimenting on dragons. The Air dragon she escaped with is dead and Destiny now meets his brother Trae – who she’s very attracted to.
She needs to go back and rescue her mother and the other kids at the facility - while evading the hunters after her, meet her dying father, and outsmart a sexy air-dragon with an agenda of his own.
This is a nice story. Its pretty simplistic, no great writing here. But I liked it anyway – and that has a lot to do with Destiny and Trae – both strong individuals and amazing together. One thing this duo have going for them is great dialogue –

Destiny: “Look, I don’t want to get you into trouble—”
Trae: “Well, good, because I can manage that quite well by myself.”

When the hunters are chasing them :
Destiny: “Then what are we going to do if we can’t outrun them?”
Trae: “Outsmart them. You feel like breakfast?”
Destiny: I blinked. “You can’t stop and eat breakfast at a time like this!”
Trae: “You tell me where in the rule book it says I can’t, and I’ll obey.”

There was much more and better stuff, but my pizza’s waiting and I’m hungry..Pick this one up for a feel good read.