Review: Don't Kill the Messenger by Eileen Rendahl

Title: Don't Kill The Messenger

Author: Eileen Rendahl

Series: Messenger #1

Publisher: Ace

Publication date: 28 Feb 2012

Format: Paperback | 336 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

Melina Markowitz is a Messenger, a go-between for the paranormal forces and supernatural creatures that move unseen among 'normal' human beings. Problem is, when a girl's an intermediary, it's hard not to get caught in the middle…

If Melina doesn't deliver, the stakes are life and death. So when ninjas steal an envelope from her, she must find it at all costs. It contains talismans created by Taoist priests to control the kiang shi - Chinese vampires unearthed from tombs beneath the Bok Kai Temple - who are attacking rival gang members in an attempt to spark a street war.

He may look more like a surfer than a cop but Ted Goodnight is dead serious about investigating the surge in gang violence, only he doesn't believe in the supernatural. It's up to Melina to change his mind - without blowing her cover…

My thoughts:

I'm a big fan of urban fantasy so I was very excited when I came round to reading this. In the more enjoyable reads, there's a whole lot of world building involved where I can get lost on the best of days. Then there's a ton of great characters that make me wish they were real and we could have big hangouts where we share the latest gossip. Who needs real friends right?

Unfortunately though, Don't Kill The Messenger fell short on quite a few things. It became a little bit of a chore to sit and read it after a while. I didn't find it a bad read necessarily, it was still an okay read, but it fell short of the mark to make it one of those books I can keep coming back to.

What it came down to, for me, was the characters. I couldn't take Melina seriously half the time. I really liked her at first - she had the whole hard done by attitude but she still did what she had to in order to get by. She seemed really mature, working three jobs, avoiding things that go bump in the night and giving an all round great impression. But when it came down to her making decisions that would essentially affect every character in the story, she had the common sense of a teenager. Even a teenager is pushing it to be honest.

I also don't understand what point in the story vampires and werewolves became her best friends. It was yet another case of me getting the wrong impression. I was excited by the prospect of reading a book where the vampires and other creatures typical to this type of read were not of the friendly and 'I'm a normal person I just happen to feed on arteries or turn into a big cuddly dog' variety. That all changed though when they turned into the 'I'm a normal person I just happen to feed on arteries or turn into a big cuddly dog' variety. I had none of the feel of spine tingly goosebumps I usually associate with urban fantasy reads.

The plot wasn't anything special. There were no twists that pulled me further into the story, nor were there characters in mortal peril to make me anxious for their wellbeing. It was okay - the gangs and the police aspect of the plot was a little cliched for my liking but there was plenty of action to keep me going.

What I did like about this book was the general idea of it. I really loved the idea of a Messenger going between vampires and werewolves e.t.c. It made a lot of sense and I thought it had so much potential. It wasn't really developed until the plot got underway, so that was a little disappointing, but I enjoyed that aspect of the story. Especially the imp with the flute - that was really funny.

Overall, I thought this book was okay. If you're new to the urban fantasy genre, I definitely wouldn't recommend starting off with this book but as usual, this is just my opinion, you may really enjoy this read.

 

My rating: 5/10

 

Eileen Rendahl:

Goodreads 

 

Messenger:

1. Don't Kill The Messenger
2. Dead on Delivery
3. Dead Letter Day

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Review: Gambling on the Bodyguard by Sarah Ballance

Title: Gambling on the Bodyguard

Author: Sarah Ballance

Series: What Happens in Vegas #8

Publisher: Entangled: Lovestruck

Publication date: October 12th 2015

Format: Kindle | Netgalley 

Genre: Adult | Contemporary Romance 

Goodreads

He’ll guard her body all night long…

Ski instructor Ellie Montgomery hits Vegas during a romance convention to meet the man of her dreams…only, the man of her dreams isn’t the cover model she’s there to see. He’s the hot-as-sin bodyguard who catches her sneaking in the back door of a meet-and-greet, and he seems more than ready to do what it takes to prove he’s twice the man her pretty boy crush could ever be. 

Jax Mathis couldn’t resist snagging a date with Ellie, but he didn’t count on the attraction being more than physical. They connect on a level he didn’t think possible—and he can’t run fast enough. She makes him want things he thought he’d never have, and maybe, just maybe, they’re within reach. But to have it, he’ll have to face the one mountain he swore he’d never climb...and with no guarantee she’ll be waiting on the other side.

 

 

My thoughts:

I don't really know what to say about this one other than that it was an okay read. It had enough to keep me interested but it wasn't something I would go back to again.

Ballance has a good writing style in my opinion. I enjoyed her writing and it really made the whole romance between the characters something special. It wasn't as simple as two characters making eye contact and then non stop gushing over how hot they both are. The romance meant something and it was believable.

Unfortunately that was where it ended for me. I just didn't understand the ending - it was so disappointing. The story takes place over a couple of days so the characters have no more than a full day and a half together - why did it end like that then? I won't say what happens, but trust me when I say if it ever happens to you…run the other way.

I get that it's a book. It's just a story. But why can't it just end in a way that makes sense with the addition of great writing that the author is capable of? It was like taking the whole book and flushing it down the toilet…not unlike Ellie's ticket in the beginning of the read.

If you enjoy cheesy romances just for a quick read with likeable, well done characters then I do recommend this one. Ballance has a lovely style of writing that makes this book better than most clichéd, fast romances.

My rating: 4/10

Sarah Ballance:

Goodreads | Website

What Happens in Vegas:

1. Tempting Her Best Friend by Gina L. Maxwell
2. The Makeover Mistake by Kathy Lyons
3. A Change of Plans by Robyn Thomas
4. Masquerading with the CEO by Dawn Chartier
5. Just One Reason by Brooklyn Skye
6. Tamed By The Outlaw by Michelle Sharp
7. Tempted by Mr. Write by Sara Hantz
8. Gambling on the Bodyguard by Sarah Ballance

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Review: The Engagement Game by Jenny Holiday

Title: The Engagement Game

Author: Jenny Holiday

Series: 49th Floor #3

Publisher: Entangled: Indulgence

Publication date: Oct 5th 2015

Format: Kindle | Netgalley

Genre: Adult | Contemporary Romance

Goodreads

The black sheep of the old-money Rosemanns, advertising executive Marcus has made his own way in the world—and done extremely well for himself—but his family is still pressuring him to join their investment firm and settle down with a quiet, unobjectionable girl.

Which is why the sexy Rose Verma is the perfect date for his family’s charity ball. A bleeding-heart lefty from the wrong side of the tracks, Rose has never met a stray dog she didn’t love or a polka-dotted mini-dress she couldn’t rock. Marcus has enough dirt on Rose to “convince” her to play along. And if he lets it slip that they’re engaged, all the better. 

But all’s fair in love and blackmail, and Rose is ready to play a few cards of her own…

My thoughts:

This was another one of those books that I finish, find it an okay read, and then promptly forget everything about it shortly after I move on to the next one.

It sounds harsh, but there wasn't anything memorable about this book. It's been done so many times, even down to the details, that it just becomes 'one of those'. They're not necessarily bad reads - some are of course, but this one wasn't - they're just so common that they all seem to blur into one. 

I liked the characters well enough. Rose was quirky and sure of herself, Marcus was strong willed with family issues and the supporting characters were interesting - especially the parents. 

All that aside, I don't really know what else to say. I did have a problem (as usual seems like) with the ending. I've been saying this for a lot of reads lately, but there wasn't enough fight in the end. The whole book is focused on a blossoming relationship and then at the inevitable big obstacle towards the end, a seemingly huge pit that has opened up between them becomes irrelevant and easily crossed. We all know what's going to happen at the end, but I want the way it happens to be something worth reading and not just a couple of pages of 'oh maybe I was wrong'.

My rating: 5/10

Jenny Holiday:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

49th Floor:

1. Saving the CEO
2. Sleeping with Her Enemy
3. The Engagement Game

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Review: Pale Moon Walking by Paula Altenburg

Title: Pale Moon Walking

Author: Paula Altenburg

Series: N/A

Publisher: Entangled: Select Otherworld

Publication date: September 28th 2015

Format: Kindle | Netgalley | 282 pages

Genre: Adult | Paranormal Romance

Goodreads

Where the outlaws are out of this world...

US Marshall Sam Kyote has been sent to the dry old town of Coyote Bluff to recuperate from a top-secret government experiment that's left this law man a little...well, different. But Sam's about to find out that the town of Coyote Bluff has a whole lot of secrets. Most of which lead to Libby Mayden-the sexy, long-legged, and tight-lipped sheriff who saved his ass from an alien ambush.

The last thing Libby needs is a US Marshall poking around her town, especially one who's hotter than the Nevada desert sun. She can't let Sam find out most of her town are wanted outlaws. Between the aliens, the gunfighters, and a searing sexual attraction to Sam, she's in a whole heap of trouble. And Libby'll stride both sides of the law-and Sam-until she's forced to choose between self-preservation...and her heart.

 

 

My thoughts:

I wasn't a big fan of this read. I mean, I finished it, which was something in itself, but it was more of a chore than anything.

The characters of Pale Moon Walking didn't do anything for me. I wasn't enamoured by the romance and there were no moments in the read that made me wonder about any backstories of the characters. I just couldn't bring myself to care and that's why I can't say I enjoyed this book very much.

I found it difficult to get behind the whole alien aspect of this book as well. I have read books featuring aliens before so it wasn't the idea itself I didn't like, but it seemed really out of place in this one. I don't know if it was because I didn't think it was explained or introduced very well, or if they didn't play enough of a part in the story compared to the romance, but either way, it seemed like they weren't important in the grand scheme of things.

My rating: 3/10

 

Paula Altenburg:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter

 

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Review: Tempted by Mr. Write by Sara Hantz

Title: Tempted by Mr. Write

Author: Sara Hantz

Series: What Happens in Vegas #7

Publisher: Entangled: Lovestruck 

Publication date: September 28th 2015

Format: Kindle | Netgalley 

Genre: Adult | Contemporary | Romance

Goodreads

She thought she knew everything about romance. She was wrong.

After losing out on a plum assignment, a romance book conference is the last place journalist Sheridan Farlow wants to be. Love is a myth-like flattering changing room mirrors-and she has the past relationships to prove it. Her editor wants a story? Fine. She'll write an entire exposé...only it doesn't go quite according plan.

Bernard "Mac" Mackenzie is something of an anomaly in the romance-writing world-a man who writes romance and believes in it. And until he met Sheridan, Mac's never felt anything close to the love he writes about. He needs more of her. In his arms, and in his bed.

Their attraction is explosive; even as Sheridan's cynical side battles her growing feelings for Mac. But can she handle writing a biting exposé with an exposed heart on the line?

 

My thoughts:

I feel like this book was more of a novella to a series and I'm missing out on three more books. It was so quick!

I couldn't stand this read from the very beginning. I was hoping for a lot more than a clichéd, Vegas romance with a touch of love at first sight thrown in. Most of the time, I'm all for a cheesy romance with a hunky guy and beautiful-but-doesn't-know-it girl who are thrown together and fall in love, but you know they're going to end up together. That's the thing - you know it's going to happen so that's not why you read the book. It's about how it happens - all the drama, maybe humour and tragedy in between. It's the journey, the character development and the emotions involved. It doesn't matter how clichéd it is, you can still make an incredible story that just happens to have a cliché thrown in.

To be honest, I normally talk about the characters in reviews, just because I really feel they make or break a book. But I can't even tell if I liked this set of characters or not. They were drowned out by the plot which was extremely frustrating. How could I like characters who throw themselves into situations like that? There was no depth to them because all the focus was on this romance that was in no way believable or relatable. 

Harsh, I know. Part of me thinks reading so many books has made me really sensitive to reads like this. Plenty of people would enjoy this book for the author's ability to get straight to the point - it's a quick afternoon, feel good read. It just wasn't for me.

My rating: 1/10

Sara Hantz:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

 

What Happens in Vegas:

1. Tempting Her Best Friend by Gina L. Maxwell
2. The Makeover Mistake by Kathy Lyons
3. A Change of Plans by Robyn Thomas
4. Masquerading with the CEO by Dawn Chartier
5. Just One Reason by Brooklyn Skye
6. Tamed By The Outlaw by Michelle Sharp
7. Tempted by Mr. Write by Sara Hantz
8. Gambling on the Bodyguard by Sarah Ballance

 

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Review: Lost in Geeklandia by E.J. Russell

Title: Lost in Geeklandia

Author: E.J Russel

Series: N/A

Publisher: Entangled: Select Contemporary

Publication date: September 28th 2015

Format: Netgalley | Kindle 

Genre: Adult | Contemporary | Romance

Goodreads

She has 30 days to turn her enemy into her boyfriend...



Introverted computer engineer Charlie Forrester has coded an algorithm for love, a nearly flawless matchmaking program. But then she's challenged to prove its accuracy - on herself. With her dream job on the line, Charlie has thirty days to forge a romantic relationship with her "perfect" match...her ex-friend and now-nemesis, Daniel Shawn. Since her dating experience is expressed in binary, she'll need more than flirting lessons and a wardrobe overhaul to pull it off.

After falling victim to the same online matchmaking con he was investigating, reporter Daniel Shawn's professional reputation went up in flames. Now he suspects someone has rebooted the scam, and he's determined to expose the fraud and rebuild his career. Unfortunately, his efforts to get back in the game get sidetracked by Charlie and her adorable geekitude, even though she seems to know a little too much about digital dating for Daniel's comfort.

And when fake romance crosses into real chemistry, Charlie's formula for love might just be the perfect formula for disaster...

 

 

My thoughts:

I was a little disappointed with this read. I liked it well enough, but I wanted a lot more considering the potential the plot has. 

I liked how driven Charlie was in terms of knowing what she wants and how to get it. She had her career all figured out and all she needed was a little push to get the rest of the way. She had no need for any outside help and when she eventually came across a huge obstacle in her way, she had no problem getting stuck in to get it out of her way so she could move on. I liked that - it wasn't necessarily a good character trait at times, but it gave her this strength that came apparent throughout the read. She knew when to apologise and when to backtrack and do the right thing which might not result in an outcome that's in her favour. She made a decision and stuck with it - there was no point in the read where Charlie was indecisive and it fit with the computer data aspect of the read. 

However, where Charlie came across as the strong, independent woman, Daniel came across as totally the opposite. At first, by Charlie, he was portrayed as this ruthless reporter that follows the facts - I saw none of that. I understand that Charlie was exaggerating her opinion of him based off of her past, but I wanted some of that drive in Daniel too. He was too much of a good guy.

That brings me to what I really didn't like about this book. I wanted so much more of a fight than there actually was. Daniel didn't fight for Charlie, Charlie didn't fight for Daniel and none of the supporting characters had anything to do with the eventual romance. There was no 'push' from them. 

For such a determined character, Charlie sure backed down awfully quickly and settled with the idea that Daniel would never speak to her again - where did all of that fire go? And Daniel was the same. He wasn't especially feisty to begin with, but he changed his mind in a single moment and it bugged me.

All in all I thought this read was okay. It had the outcome I expected and I enjoyed the humour involved, but in the end, it all happened too easily for me to believe in it.

My rating: 5/10

E.J. Russell:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter

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Review: The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan

Title: The Eye of the World

Author: Robert Jordan

Series: The Wheel of Time #1

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 2006

Format: Paperback | 800 pages

Genre: Epic Fantasy | Adult

Goodreads

There is a world of light and shadow, where good and evil wage eternal war. It is the world of the wheel of time. The greatest fantasy epic ever written.

The Wheel of Time turns and Ages come and go, leaving memories that become legend. Legend fades to myth and even myth is long forgotten when the Age that gave it birth returns again.

But one truth yet remains, and what mortal men forget, the Aes Sedai do not…

What was, what will be, and what is, may yet fall under the Shadow.

My thoughts:

Goodness this took me so long to finish. Well worth the time it took though.

I love epic fantasy. I love it, but I can only read it in small doses. It seems to take everything out of me every time I finish a book like this. I don't know if it's because of how long it takes, the complexity of the writing or just the fact that so much can happen in one book that it feels like I've read five in one sitting. I have to just put everything down afterwards and do nothing. 

I think what got me most about this read was the writing. I mean, just read the summary of the book - the writing is just something else. Sometimes Jordan gets all philosophical and it just blew my mind how his words got sucked into my soul to be reflected for hours until I just shake it off and get back to the story. His writing is just…I can't even.

The characters are also extremely loveable. I did have a hard time with Mat for a while but that was understandable. Rand and Perrin have to be the most loveable characters I've ever come across in epic fantasy. They were honourable and the were sweet. I don't think they have a bad bone in their body. 

But Lan and Nynaeve just took my heart. It's strange because their relationship is only mentioned a couple of times - just a couple of hints here and there. Nothing actually happens between them but there is a couple of lines towards the end that just made me start bawling. It was one of the most heartfelt conversations I've ever read between characters. I'm pretty sure there are quotes of this conversation all over the place because it's just too amazing but I won't say anymore for those of you that want to actually read the book.

The one thing I would have liked for this book would be a longer battle at the end. I understand that it's not over and there's so many more books in the series for epic battles but for such a long journey, I wanted it to come to this amazing battle that lasted for more than a couple of pages.

All in all I loved this book. I can't wait to get my hands on the rest of the series and get to know the characters more. Especially Lan and Nynaeve - those two are killing me inside…my heart is turning to mush.

My rating: 9/10

Robert Jordan:

Goodreads 

The Wheel of Time:

1. The Eye of the World
2. The Great Hunt
3. The Dragon Reborn
4. The Shadow Rising
5. The Fires of Heaven
6. Lord of Chaos
7. A Crown of Swords
8. The Path of Daggers
9. Winter's Heart
10. Crossroads of Twilight
11. Knife of Dreams
12. The Gathering Storm
13. Towers of Midnight
14. A Memory of Light

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Review: A Change for the Good by Melanie Jayne

Title: A Change for the Good

Author: Melanie Jayne

Series: N/A

Publisher: Big Dog Publishing

Publication date: Jul 7th

Format: Kindle | Netgalley | 146 pages

Genre: Adult | Romance

Goodreads

Two people starting over, making much needed changes in their lives.

Zoe crawford has moved to a new city after being dumped and humiliated by her ex-husband. She is going to put her wants and needs first and get her life in order.

Tony Alessi has returned to his hometown to rehab his body and soul, leaving his ATF career behind.

When Tony meets Zoe, he likes what he sees. She appreciates the attention from the younger man but doesn't want to participate in a cougar challenge. As Zoe learns to trust Tony, she admits to some odd happenings in her life. The feelings of being followed, call hang ups and an apartment break-in. When the attacks turn physical, she accepts Tony's help.

Soon Zoe's life is threatened, the couple hides in Tony's cabin and grow closer as they discover who they were and who they hope to be.

Will Zoe's past ruin her chance to change her life for the good?

 

 

My thoughts:

This is going to be an extremely short review since, unfortunately, there isn't much to say about this one.

I really didn't get on with this read. I honestly wish it was just the storyline, characters and plot issues but it wasn't. The writing needed a lot of work. So much so that I regret finishing the book. Harsh, I know. The timings were off a lot of the time in that one minute Zoe would be talking to her friend on the phone and the next minute it's a week later and she's shopping. It was annoying. 

It just needed work. It has so much potential to be a great story with the idea of a divorcee and a guy going through a lot of pain. I understood what the author wanted the story to be, but it missed the mark.

To keep this from being just a whole lot of me complaining here's what I couldn't stand:

• Writing - didn't pace well, time skips, horrible dialogue.
• Rushed the whole way through.
• Back story and relationships weren't believable.
• No real turning point at the start of the characters getting closer.

 

My rating: 3/10

 

Melanie Jayne:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter

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Review: Magic Breaks by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Breaks

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #7

Publisher: Ace

Publication date: 3 March 2015

Format: Paperback | 416 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

As the mate of the Beast Lord, Curran, former mercenary Kate Daniels has more responsibilities than it seems possible to juggle. Not only is she still struggling to keep her investigative business afloat, but she must now deal with the affairs of the Pack, including preparing her people for attack from Roland, a cruel, ancient being with godlike powers.

As Roland's long shadow looms ever nearer, Kate is called to attend and gathering of leaders from Atlanta's supernatural factions. When one of the Masters of the Dead is found murdered by a shapeshifter, Kate is given less than twenty-four hours to hunt down the killer. And this time, if she fails, she'll find herself embroiled in a war that could destroy everything she holds dear…

My thoughts:

I have yet to find a series that manages to make me fan girl like this one. It took me so long to get my hands on Magic Breaks, but I would find myself thinking about it every day at the very least. What was going to happen to all my favourite characters? Will Kate finally meet her Dad? Will he be evil enough? And will there be a final, epic showdown with Hugh? It was constantly running through my mind. And then I read the book and boy, it exceeded any expectations I had.

What I really have to point out straight off is that Ilona Andrews has no fear when it comes to fleshing out every single character so each one is just as entertaining to read about as Kate and Curran. I love all of them. The thought of any of them dying makes my heart skip a beat…not in the good way.

But of course, no one compares to Kate and Curran. As individual characters they take the biscuit and even while apart they are more than able to stand on their own. But together, that's where the story really starts to get going. When they fight together you bite your nails in anticipation, when they put their heads together you're in awe of what they can accomplish and the sexy times are a lovely bonus that make you root for them as a couple to the ends of the Earth and back.

I loved how I was kept in the dark with what would happen throughout the story. I had no clue as to what would end up going on and I loved the not knowing. The anticipation was killing me even whilst reading. I wanted to get to the end to finally find out what happens to the Pack but when I did, I wished I could read it for the first time all over again. I wish I didn't have to wait for the next book…sigh.

What more do I need to say? If you haven't picked up this series yet, please do, because you're seriously missing out on some deliciousness. This was my favourite one yet!

My rating: 10/10

Ilona Andrews:

 

 Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

 

 Kate Daniels:

 

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises
7. Magic Breaks
8. Magic Shifts
9. Untitled
10. Untitled

 

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Review: A Spy Unmasked by Tina Gabrielle

Title: A Spy Unmasked

Author: Tina Bagrielle

Publisher: Entangled: Scandalous

Publication date: November 10th 2014

Format: ebook | 285 pages

Genre: Adult | Historical Romance

Goodreads

London, 1820.

 The mission did not go quite as Robert Ware--known in society as the new Earl of Kirkland--planned. A spy in the service of His Majesty, Robert is a "guest" at a masquerade party as he retrieves vital information for a murder investigation. Until he's quite unexpectedly interrupted by an exquisite, masked woman with glittering green eyes. And a pistol she has cocked and aimed right at him... 

Lady Sophia Merrill has defiantly taken up justice's shining sword, determined to expose the brigand who murdered her eccentric but brilliant father, and stole his latest invention. Now she must masquerade as Robert's betrothed in order to infiltrate the Inventor's Society and find the killer. But the undeniable potent attraction between them not only imperils the investigation, but Sophia's reputation... and both of their lives.

My thoughts:

I've been reading a lot of books lately where the story gets split because of some event or another and I end up liking one part of the book a lot more than the other. This one was no exception. The Earl of Kirkland is a spy investigating the goings on in a secret society until Lady Sophia almost blows the whole operation. There is a point in the story where Sophia gets involved in the whole spying business a lot more than before. It's at that point where the read started to go a little off the rails in my opinion.

I liked most of the read. The espionage aspect of the story was very enjoyable. I'm not usually one for crime solving and spy novels, so to enjoy that side of it was refreshing. It gave the book the suspense and sense of adventure it needed. The spying involved was pretty simple and repetitive, but I still found myself liking it. Most of all though, I liked how the author stuck with it throughout the book. The main focus was definitely the plot and not the romance which was great.

My big problem was the ending of the book. Not so much right at the end, but several of the later chapters. Things moved way too fast. There was a really nice pace going between Sophia and Robert's relationship and then it just went full speed ahead in the worst of ways. It made sense at the start, but to have it go from 0 to 60 in just a few chapters was just terrible considering both characters refused to work together in the start. It wasn't believable in the end which was disappointing.

Overall I was pretty much on and off with this read. I liked the characters, until I didn't anymore and I liked the plot, until it became a little dry. It was okay.

My rating: 6/10

Tina Gabrielle:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Blog | Twitter

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Review: Love's Legacy by Joan Avery

Title: Love's Legacy

Author: Joan Avery

Publisher: Entangled: Scandalous

Publication date: November 10th 2014

Format: ebook | 297 pages

Genre: Adult | Historical Romance

Goodreads

Grenada, British West Indies, 1875

English plantation owner Geoffrey Worth has misgivings about hiring an American widow as a governess. But while Geoffrey longs to forget the past—and the daughter who reminds him of it daily—there is still duty to consider. And Bellefleur, his plantation. This is his life now. Warmth, family, love; these things only bring pain. And scars he'll carry forever...

Elizabeth Malfonte is certainly not the aged widow he had anticipated. She's young and beautiful, with a determination that wakes something deep within Geoffrey. Yet Elizabeth hides her own secret―the babe within her womb. And despite Geoffrey's handsome―yet scarred face―her new employer has a cold and unforgiving nature that unsettles her, even as Elizabeth's wariness slowly heats to desire. 

But the bright beauty of this land is no match for the dark, ominous clouds of the past...

My thoughts:

This review is going to be pretty short because I generally didn't like this read.

If you have no connection to the characters whatsoever, how can you care about anything that happens in the book? You can't.

Seriously, everything that happened in this read did not affect me whatsoever. It was all…meh. And I hated that. I was so emotionally disconnected that there was pretty much no point in reading this.

The only saving grace this book had was the whole deal with Geoffrey's past. I couldn't guess what happened before and what was going to happen towards the end which drove me to finish the book. It was anticlimactic but at least there was that.

What can I say? I didn't like the characters. I thought there was no chemistry between any of them. Not father and daughter, between friends or husband and wife. Geoffrey and Elizabeth were no exception.

All in all this read wasn't for me. Of course, it's just my opinion and you may think differently.

My rating: 2/10

Joan Avery:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook

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Review: Shadow's Edge by Brent Weeks

Title: Shadow's Edge

Author: Brent Weeks

Series: Night Angel #2

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 04 Aug 2011

Format: Paperback | 672 pages

Genre: Adult | Epic Fantasy

Goodreads

Kylar Stern has rejected the assassin's life. In the wake of the Godking's violent coup, both his master and his closest friend are dead. His friend was Logan Gyre, heir to Cenaria's throne, but few of the ruling class survive to mourn his loss. So Kylar is starting over: new city, new companions, and new profession.

But when he learns that Logan might be alive, trapped and in hiding, Kylar faces an impossible choice: he could give up the way of the shadows forever, and find peace with his young family. Or he could succumb to his flair for destruction, the years of training, to save his friend and his country - and lose all he holds precious.

My thoughts:

Shadow's Edge begins where the first book in the trilogy, The Way of the Shadows left off. Kylar leaves his birthplace and the city he used to call home to make a better life for himself and Elene. In order to get away from the chaos of war, Kylar has to leave behind his wetboy ways and stop killing to keep Elene happy. He soon finds however, that trouble has its way of following him and Kylar finds it more of a challenge to stop killing than he anticipated.

I have to say I don't even know where to begin with this review. I adored this book even more than the first one. Kylar grew into even more of an amazing character with all of the troubles he faced in this read and he really ended up coming into his own. I loved all of his flaws along with his cool as heck, newfound abilities. But most of all, I loved how unsure he was of what he was doing. This book was a huge journey for Kylar that hasn't even ended yet - he still doesn't know his purpose in life and he doesn't know how to deal with all of his losses. 

The ending to this book is still driving me crazy a day later. I can't wrap my head around it - honestly it was a brilliant ending, but it came out of nowhere. I feel sorry for people who read this book before the last book in the series had been published. Thank God I already have the last book on my shelves. If I had to wait I don't know what I would have done.

Overall I love this read and the series so far. I can't wait to get stuck into the last book.

My rating: 10/10

Brent Weeks:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

Night Angel:

1. The Way of Shadows
2. Shadow's Edge
3. Beyond the Shadows

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Review: The Way of Shadows by Brent Weeks

Title: The Way of Shadows

Author: Brent Weeks

Series: Night Angel #1

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 04 Aug 2011

Format: Paperback | 672 pages

Genre: Adult | Epic Fantasy

Goodreads

For Durzo Blint, assassination is an art. And he is the city's most accomplished artist, his talents required from alleyway to courtly boudoir.

For Azoth, survival is precarious. Something you never take for granted. As a guild rat, he's grown up in the slums, and learned the hard way to judge people quickly - and to take risks. Risks like apprenticing himself to Durzo Blint.

But to be accepted, Azoth must turn his back on his old life and embrace a new identity and name. As Kyler Stern, he must learn to navigate the assassin's world of dangerous politics and strange magics - and cultivate a flair for death.

My thoughts:

Azoth has had more than enough of living in fear so when Durzo Blint comes along, the most feared wetboy in the city, Azoth takes a risk and becomes an apprentice to an assassin. As time passes, Azoth becomes Kyler, a skilled fighter with dreams of becoming all that Blint wants him to be. Things soon change though when a kingdom to the north plots an invasion that threatens everything Kyler knows and loves.

I. Loved. This. Book.

I could probably just leave it at that but it doesn't really say much about why you should read it. Just a bit of a fair warning though, I most likely won't make much sense in this review.

The characters in this book are so well written that I had a hard time figuring a lot of them out. I've rarely been in the position where I can't draw the line between good and evil - there were characters that I loathed until the very end where something's revealed that makes all of that character's actions seem like acts of love where they didn't before. I never saw it coming. Lately the books I've been reading have been so predictable that it became tiring to carry on reading them, it just made The Way of Shadows that much better in comparison. Even the characters that are clearly labelled as the 'villains' have elements to their makeup that make them seem pitiful instead of just the character you're supposed to hate. I found myself feeling sorry for some which made the read very interesting indeed.

I also thought this read was incredibly intense. I dreaded having to put this book down because it was so chocked full of suspense. There was no end to the action throughout the read as well as an amazingly detailed plot. There were a few subplots within the read which were just as intriguing as the plot mainly focusing on Kyler. I couldn't race through this one fast enough and then, as usual with a great book, I didn't want it to end.

Honestly, if you like this genre anyway, please pick up this book. I for one, am really looking forward to reading the next book in the trilogy. 

My rating: 10/10

Brent Weeks:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

Night Angel:

1. The Way of Shadows
2. Shadow's Edge
3. Beyond the Shadows

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Review: Dyed and Gone by Beth Yarnall

Title: Dyed and Gone

Author: Beth Yarnall

Publisher: Entangled Select

Publication date: March 25th 2014

Format: ebook | 298 pages

Genre: Mystery | Adult

Goodreads

Hairstylist Azalea March is looking forward to a wild weekend in Las Vegas with her friends. Oh, sure, they’re supposed to be there on business, attending the biggest hair show on the west coast, but that doesn’t mean they can’t have a little fun. But fun quickly turns to drama. On the first morning of the show, Dhane, the biggest celeb of the hair-styling world, is found dead. As it turns out Azalea’s friend Vivian not only knew Dhane, but the tale she weaves of how they met is faker than a showgirl’s uh…assets. When Vivian confesses to the murder and is arrested, Azalea knows there’s no way she could have done it and suspects Vivian may be trying to protect someone. But who?

Azalea now has to convince Alex, the sexy detective from her past, to help her prove Vivian’s innocence and comb through clues more twisted than a spiral perm. But the truth is stranger than anything found on the Las Vegas Strip, and proving Vivian’s innocence turns out to be more difficult than transforming a brunette into a blonde.

My thoughts:

Dyed and Gone follows Azalea March as she tries her best to solve the murder of well known celebrity, Dhane - well known in the hairdressing world at least. Azalea soon finds herself turning into trouble at every corner so enlists the help of Alex, the hunky detective that she just happens to be having a little bit of a spat with. 

I have to admit straight off, I didn't like this book. It was one that I didn't connect to at all - I couldn't relate to most of the characters and the plot didn't captivate me as much as I would have liked. However, I really liked Alex, the detective, and Juan, one of Azalea's best friends. I thought Alex was a cute character that played off the 'protective guy' feel really well seeing as he's already a member of the police force. Juan just made me laugh, end of. Especially towards the end of the book - he came out with some amazing one liners that made me giggle.

I don't really have much else to say about this one. It was just one of those reads I didn't get on with. I couldn't connect to most of the characters and I lost interest really quickly. Finishing it became more of a chore than anything which is not something any reader likes to happen. If this sounds like something you'd be interested in please don't let me put you off.

My rating: 3/10

Beth Yarnall:

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Review: Magic Rises by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Rises

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #6

Publisher: Ace 

Publication date: 30 Jul 2013

Format: Paperback | 368 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Mercenary Kate Daniels and her mate, Curran, the Beast Lord, are struggling to solve a heartbreaking crisis. Unable to control their beasts, many of the Pack’s shapeshifting children fail to survive to adulthood. While there is a medicine that can help, the secret to its making is closely guarded by the European packs, and there’s little available in Atlanta.

Kate can’t bear to watch innocents suffer, but the solution she and Curran have found threatens to be even more painful. The European shapeshifters who once outmaneuvered the Beast Lord have asked him to arbitrate a dispute—and they’ll pay him in medicine. With the young people’s survival and the Pack’s future at stake, Kate and Curran know they must accept the offer—but they have little doubt that they’re heading straight into a trap…

My thoughts:

I have no idea what to think about what just happened. I've just been taken on one hell of an emotional roller coaster. This is most likely going to be a really short review just so I can stop myself from fangirling all over the place. 

I didn't think this series could get any better but this book blew every book before out of the water completely. There was so much action - and amazing action at that - I couldn't take it all in at once and ended up reading over the best fights over and over just to take in the sheer awesomeness that just happened. I'm hardly making any sense right now in all the excitement.

Magic Rises makes a huge step forward in terms of plot development. Everything pretty much changes in this book and I have a feeling it will carry on changing throughout the rest of the series. The cat is definitely out of the bag.

Overall I seriously enjoyed every moment of this read and I can't fault it for the life of me. I loved Curran and Kate's every moment together, all the action, the new characters and all the emotions this book has made me feel. Please, please, please read this series - you won't regret it.

My rating:  10/10

 

Ilona Andrews:

 

 

 

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

 

 

 

 

Kate Daniels:

 

 

 

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises

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Review: Gunmetal Magic by Ilona Andrews

Title: Gunmetal Magic

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #5.5

Publisher: Ace

Publication date: 31 Jul 2012

Format: Paperback | 448 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Some people have everything figured out—Andrea Nash is not one of those people. After being kicked out of the Order of the Knights of Merciful Aid, Andrea's whole existence is in shambles. All she can do is try to put herself back together, something made easier by working for Cutting Edge, a small investigative firm owned by her best friend, Kate Daniels. 

When several shapeshifters working for Raphael Medrano—the male alpha of the Clan Bouda, as well as Andrea's former lover—die unexpectedly at a dig site, Andrea is assigned to investigate…and must work with Raphael. As her search for the killer leads her into the secret underbelly of supernatural Atlanta, Andrea knows that dealing with her feelings for Raphael might have to take a back seat to saving the world…

My thoughts:

I was pleasantly surprised by this read because I initially thought it would be another novella type deal and not a full blown novel. I soon noticed the number of pages it contained on goodreads though and immediately got excited - anything more of Ilona Andrews is a good thing in my book.

So…Andrea. I never thought I could like her any more than I already did from her appearances in Kate's life, but reading this book from her perspective was a breath of fresh of air. I loved getting to know her better and I have to say, she seems like a completely new character now - I definitely won't see her in the same light in the next Kate Daniels book. Andrea used to be so much meeker in the past books, partly because of the Order she was a part of, but also because she was so unsure of herself: her identity and who she wanted to become. Everything changes in this book though and her story is not an easy one.

But of course, I still have to mention my favourites, Kate and Curran. I adored seeing their relationship through Andrea's eyes. It was beyond adorable. I also feel a need to mention Raphael - is it just me, or did anybody else start to really dislike him at the beginning of this book? He did redeem himself towards the end, but I find myself unable to really forget what he did and said - he went a little too far in my eyes. 

As usual for a Kate Daniels novel, the plot was a perfect mix of humour, romance and amazing action that has you biting your nails in anticipation. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.

My rating: 9/10

 

Ilona Andrews:

 

 

 

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Review: Magic Slays by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Slays

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #5

Publisher: Ace

Publication date: 31 May 2011

Format: Paperback | 320 ages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Kate Daniels may have quit the Order of Knights of Merciful Aid, but she's still knee deep in in paranormal problems. Or she would be if she could get someone to hire her. Starting her own business has been more challenging than she thought it would be - now that the Order is disparaging her good name. Plus, many potential clients are afraid of getting on the bad side of the Beast Lord, who just happens to be Kate's mate.

So when Atlanta's premier Master of the Dead calls to ask for help with a vampire on the loose, Kate leaps at the chance of some paying work. But it turns out that this is not an isolated incident. Kate needs to get to the bottom of it - and fast, or the city and everyone dear to her may pay the ultimate price…

My thoughts:

Even with my high expectations, this book still managed to impress me. It was another brilliant addition to the Kate Daniels series.

What I enjoyed most about this read was the fact that I knew where Curran and Kate stood from the beginning of the book. The time of the two characters playing games with each other for affection is over for the most part - they still have their moments, but this book is more focused on how well they work together as a team now that they're sharing all aspects of their lives with each other. It brought something completely new to the table and kept the series interesting. I loved seeing how the couple started to develop their relationship and eventually trust each other completely to the point that one would allow the other to risk their life for someone they both love. 

The new characters introduced were both hilarious and endearing. I love Ascanio and I can see myself having a real soft spot for him, especially with how he played a part in this plot. He reminded me of Julie in a way, like a lost child in need of a helping hand. I also really liked the witch and volhv family involved - they really made me laugh and I can see them playing a big part in the future Kate Daniels books. Most of all though, I loved Kate's development as a character - she learns even more about her family in this book, some of which is pretty painful, so I loved how she dealt with it. There's a huge, noticeable difference between how she deals with family secrets in this book compared the first couple in the series - Kate has grown a huge amount.

As for the plot, it was a typical Kate Daniels novel in terms of action, humour and romance. There was loads of action to keep things thrilling with a bucketload of suspense thrown in towards the end where someone's life is in the balance. Just like the past books, I adored every single Kate and Curran moment and there were plenty in this read - about three quarters of the way in, Curran gives a heartfelt confession which almost had me burst into tears. I didn't think I could love Curran any more than I did already but I digress.

Overall I thought this book was pretty much perfect. It had everything I could ask for in a book and then some. If you haven't checked out this series yet, please do.

My rating: 10/10

 

Ilona Andrews:

 

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

 

 

Kate Daniels:

 

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises

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Review: Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Bleeds 

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #4

Publisher: Ace

Publication date: 25 May 2010

Format: Paperback | 384 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Kate Daniels works for the Order of Knights of Merciful Aid, officially, as a liaison with the mercenary guild. Unofficially, she cleans up the paranormal problems no one else wants to handle - especially if they involve Atlanta's shapeshifting community.

When she's called in to investigate a fight at the Steel Horse, a bar on the border between the territories of the shapeshifters and the necromancers, Kate quickly discovers there's a new player in town. One who's been around for thousands of years - and rode to war at the side of Kate's father.

This foe may be too much even for Kate and Curran, the Beast Lord, to handle. Because this time Kate will be taking on family…

My thoughts:

Wow! This writing duo certainly kicked it up a notch with this one!

What can I say about this book other than I loved it so, so much. I'm normally a little anxious about reading on in a series - especially urban fantasy series - just because I get so disappointed when they go downhill after a great start. The first book in the Kate Daniels series was brilliant, so I couldn't imagine it getting any better. Boy was I wrong!

 What got me most was the humour. There were little funny moments here and there in the past three books of this series but this one just took the biscuit. Every time Curran and Kate are in the same room together, something happens that makes me laugh, no exception. Quite a few moments in this book will make any reader realise that those two are really made for each other. It made for some really hilarious reading let me tell you.

In the past three books there has been mention of romantic interest between Curran and Kate but it never really got anywhere. In this book there was about equal focus on the paranormal problems of Atlanta Kate has to deal with, and Kate's relationship with Curran. Normally I don't like romance to take a huge chunk out of the book, but I love the two characters so much that I welcomed it. If anything, it added to the overall plot of the story since Kate had more to worry about than ever.

The new characters introduced in this book were amazing. Kate's new enemy was pretty much an overpowered creep. She really led to some thrilling action throughout the read where I got seriously worried for some of the characters involved. Plus a shapeshifter that turns into a crocodile warrior? Awesome!

Overall I thought this was the best book yet - I'm starting to think that I'll be saying that for every new Kate Daniels book I read but I don't want to let my expectations get too high.

My rating: 10/10

Ilona Andrews:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

Kate Daniels:

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises

 

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Review: Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Strikes

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #3

Publisher: Gollancz

Publication date: 11 Nov 2010

Format: Paperback | 320 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

When magic strikes and Atlanta goes to pieces, it's a job for Kate Daniels…

Drafted into working for the Order of Merciful Aid, mercenary Kate Daniels has more paranormal problems than she knows what to do with these days. And in Atlanta, where magic comes and goes like the tide, that's saying a lot.

But when Kate's werewolf friend Derek is discovered nearly dead, she finds herself with a personal stake and a whole new level of problem. As her investigations lead her to the Midnight Games - the invitation-only, no-holds-barred, ultimate preternatural fighting tournament - she uncovers a dark plot that may forever alter the face of Atlanta's shapeshifting community…

My thoughts:

This series is just getting better and better in my opinion - this was my favourite so far.

I seriously love how far Kate has come already. A lot more of her past is revealed in this book and her character is tested to the limits. She was everything I love in a heroine - strong, witty and the cool sword skills are a definite bonus. 

This book is the kind of read that is more or less impossible to put down. It's full of so much suspense that I couldn't bear to stop reading just so I could find out how everything was going to end. I was so worried for the characters the whole way through which is a definite testament to the great writing.

If you haven't read this series then I seriously recommend you start. So far it's what any fan of urban fantasy looks for in a series - it's hilarious, full of action with a bit of heart stopping romance thrown in and it has amazing characters that you can't help but grow to love. 

 

My rating: 10/10

 

Ilona Andrews:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

Kate Daniels:

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises

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