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The Weight of Shadows (Shadow Series #1)
The Weight of Shadows (Shadow Series #1)
Karl Holton | 2020 | Crime
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
The description above, does not do the justice to this book, there is so much more to it than it is given away in the blurb.

One thing for sure about this book, it is not boring. The book begins by introducing characters, and you should pay attention, because there is a vast amount of them. In the beginning, I was confused of who belonged were, but as I continued reading this book, it all made sense. These 300 pages are filled with action, robberies, murders, kidnapping, police investigations and of course, Ukrainian Mafia. And believe it or not, everything is entangled so masterfully that it makes one huge, great crime mystery.

The characters chosen for this book are very diverse, intriguing and complex. The book covers period of six days and it is unbelievable what can happen in that period of time. I, personally, could not choose my favourite character in this book, because there were too many great personalities. This novel was told from multiple perspectives, and it allowed to get to know the characters better, and made the book more interesting for the reader. I do like books, which are set in London, and I really enjoyed the detailed knowledge of this city, which Holton shared in the book. It just somehow warms my heart and makes it more realistic.

I really enjoyed how fast paced this book’s narrative was. Every chapter gives a different character’s story, so it was a real page turner for me, as I wanted to find out, what happened to other characters. There were a lot of twists and turns in this novel, however, some of the parts were quite obvious, and it annoyed me that those great detectives couldn’t figure out some of the things quicker. This novel is a debut for Holton, but in the prologue chapter, there is an incredibly interesting character mentioned, where it feels like this is a second book in the series, and I honestly hope that one day there will be a book about the “skin artist” and that investigation.

The writing style was pleasurable to read with easy and understandable language . I loved the short chapters of this book, and it was fast paced and indulging read. I should mention, that there are murders, blood and violence in this book, so it is not suitable for people with weak nerves. The ending of this book has very unexpected twist and a cliff hanger, which is driving me mad, but otherwise it gives a satisfactory ending for this part of the series. So, to conclude, I would strongly recommend this book, because it has riveting, complex variety of characters, and the plot is masterfully twisted making it an indulging, fast paced book, which deserves to be read. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.

Was given this book by author for honest review.
  
This book is part of a series by Blythe Camenson that explores different careers centered on a theme. This volume focuses on water related careers and covers the spectrum from aquatic scientists to the Navy, fishing, cruise staff, water safety and rescue, and water sports.

The book tackles each of these items in a series of chapters. Each chapter talks about what the job entails, training needed, salaries, and employment figures. It then concludes with an interview with someone who is currently employed in the field that touches on their background, their job, and what they do and don't like about it.

The book is interesting and covers a range of things that anyone considering a new career would find interesting. However, it does have its shortcomings. At 150 pages, including an appendix of professional associations, the book just barely wets your appetite for more. Each chapter only focuses on one or two jobs and basically lists the others. This means the book isn't one stop shopping, but it does give you a general idea whether you might want to look for further information on the jobs listed.

Additionally, the book was published in the last decade, so some of the information, like salaries, is already out of date. The book focuses on the US, so if you live elsewhere, you'll need to look into local standards, and all the addresses given won't do you any good.
  
Better the Devil You Know (Broken Halos #6)
Better the Devil You Know (Broken Halos #6)
Maya Daniels | 2020 | Science Fiction/Fantasy
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Better the Devil You Know is the final book in the Broken Halos series. We start off with Raphael not doing too well and Eric fighting through humans, giving up on everything they held dear because Helena's gone. Hel, in the meantime, isn't sure where she is or even who she is, trapped in a world of grey.

This was a great final book to the series, with plenty of action and snark from Helena as she tries to find herself again, plus she has some new freaky-ass powers to contend with. Raphael keeps secrets throughout most of the book. And Eric is still Eric. He's growly and grumpy for all the right reasons.

Although the pacing is perfect, this book doesn't feel like the end to me. I guess it's because Hel and Eric still have so much more to do. So, really, it feels more like the end of a season. Now I just need to wait and see if there will be a second season or if it will get cancelled! 😁

I definitely recommend this book on the proviso that you are sensible and start at the beginning, otherwise you won't know what the "Hel" is going on.

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
  
Bishop Takes Knight (Redclaw Origins #1)
Bishop Takes Knight (Redclaw Origins #1)
McKenna Dean | 2019 | History & Politics, Paranormal, Romance
10
8.5 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
BISHOP TAKES KNIGHT is the first book in the Redclaw Origins series. Now, I have read two books of the Redclaw Security series, and thoroughly enjoyed them. So I was intrigued by the thought of going back to see where it all began. I was NOT disappointed.

This book takes you back to the 1950s, with socialites, and women trying to find their way into work now the men are back. There is so much glamour in this book. I loved it! The story is twisted and intriguing, with plenty of humour and wit to keep you going.

Rhett Bishop is full of sass, determined to make her own way and not rely on friend's handouts. Peter Knight thinks he has reached the bottom, only to discover things aren't as bad as he thought. These two end up working together and taking advantage when life hands them opportunities.

There are no steamy moments in this book, but don't you worry. There is tension aplenty and you just know they will end together with fireworks. You just don't see anything apart from one kiss. Trust me, this is absolutely perfect, and exactly as it should be in this book.

This book was the 'living end' that I devoured in one sitting. Between Delilah and the flaming chicken, I couldn't put it down. I really can't recommend this highly enough, and I can't wait for the next book.

Just read it. You'll see what I mean!
  
Alpha's Fingerling Surprize (The Weird & Wacky World of Shifters #2)
Alpha's Fingerling Surprize (The Weird & Wacky World of Shifters #2)
JP Sayle | 2022 | LGBTQ+, Paranormal, Romance
8
8.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
More emotional than book one but no less a great read!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.

This is book 2 in the series and while not strictly necessary, I strongly recommend you read book one first. It sets the scene for Olowin and Russ. Its also a lot of fun!

Russ rejected Olowin and regretted it almost instantly. Finally getting to spend some time together goes a long way, and the pair begins their new life together. Things, however, were never gonna run smoothly!

Book one was a lot of fun to read. I found this one a little fun but more emotional. Russ and Olowin are opposites and it shows in every way but they are suited to each other, once they both commit to the other.

There is a marked difference in Russ and Olowin's physical relationship to that of Frenchie and Tala and I will never look at a sprouting potato in the same way again!!

And just what else, and more importantly WHY, have the potato Elders kept from their people??

I have no idea where this series is going, and I still want to know why beans are dull, are we gonna get a broccoli character and when do we get the next book? But I will read them, all of them!

More emotional than book one but no less a great 4 star read!

*same worded review will appear elsewhere
  
Unforgivable Lover (Warriors of Lemuria #5)
Unforgivable Lover (Warriors of Lemuria #5)
Rosalie Redd | 2018 | Paranormal, Romance
8
6.8 (4 Ratings)
Book Rating
sad to say goodbye!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.

This is book 5 in the series, and you really SHOULD read books 1 through 4 first. The prequel short isn't really necessary though.

Gaetan is the Healer at the Keep. When Noeh's son takes himself through the portal, Gaetan sets out to find him, and ends up saving Nikki from a Gossum attack. But in doing so, sets off a chain of events that will lead to the end of this war.

I have enjoyed this series, and it's always sad to see the end come but I find myself a little disappointed and I have no idea why!

Oh, don't get me wrong, Gaetan and Nikki's story is a good one, and we get why his leg is injured and just why his sister Ginnia, is how she is. Heartbreaking, when Gaetan tells Nikki that. And the Gods on Lemuria play their final pieces, and everything becomes, mostly anyway, clear.

I just ...UGH!!! I just felt, good as it was, it all came to a head far too quickly, and without all the drama I was expecting! Please don't hate me, ya'll know I have to tell you how I FEEL about my books, and this one left me a little wanting. Of WHAT exactly, I've no bloody idea!!

BUT!!!

Besides from the fact this book brings the series to an end, I did enjoy it, and I would still highly recommend this series for those who like paranormal, or fantasy romances.

Always sad to see a series come to an end.

4 solid stars

**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
  
40x40

Kristy H (1252 KP) rated The Collide in Books

Mar 11, 2019  
The Collide
The Collide
Kimberly McCreight | 2018 | Fiction & Poetry, Young Adult (YA)
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Timely & fascinating end to this series
[Note: there may be spoilers if you haven't read the two previous books in the series.]

The third book in McCreight's Outliers series picks up with Wylie finally out of the detention center, but in no way safe and sound. She still hasn't found her Dad and she's jolted by the appearance of the surprise visitor from the end of book two. With the help of her twin brother, Gideon, and a few other trusted friends, Wylie tries to figure out exactly what is going on with the Outliers. Who is hunting them? Where is her dad? But the more she digs, the more secrets she uncovers--and the more trouble she finds herself in.

I was excited to read this book and finally figure out the conclusion of the Outlier story. I've enjoyed this series; it's something a little different from what I usually read. I must admit, I find it hard sometimes to remember all the intricate details from the previous books, but that's just my own fault. If you're lucky to be picking up this series from the beginning, enjoy. It's a really engaging read. At some point, I look forward to re-reading it from the beginning. By now, I'm too caught up in the characters and their lives not to finish. It's very to easy to get attached to McCreight's scrappy band of fighters. Trying to figure things out along the way is almost a bonus.

As for figuring things out, I found parts of this last book to be a little predictable--there was one or two parts I saw coming from a mile away, and it seemed amazing that the characters didn't either. Other pieces were more of a surprise. While some of the predictability was a bit frustrating, overall, I felt this was a good end to the series. There's a good balance of Wylie and other characters, and I was pleasantly surprised to see Gideon showing up (and not being annoying). The book ties things up fairly well, without resolving every loose end. As part of that ending, the books feel timely and apt to our current times. The running thread throughout of the Government trying to manage its citizen's lives is spot-on and one of my favorite aspects of the novels.

Overall, I enjoyed this one. I have a soft spot for this series--I don't think it always gets the attention it deserves. I've come to care for these characters over the years, and I find these books oddly compelling. While I definitely found pieces of this book and the ending to be a bit predictable as things unfolded, I still found it to be timely and fascinating. If you haven't read this series, I do think it's worth picking up. 3.5 stars for the ending of this trilogy.
  
A Discovery of Witches - Season 1
A Discovery of Witches - Season 1
2018 | Fantasy
So much missing from the book
This is ok. I have read the books unfortunately it does not come close to the book. The build up to the characters and their connection in the TV series is too fast and bland. If I had not read the book then maybe the rating i gave would have been higher but I would still have the same issue with the lack of build up in the characters connection and the lack of story details to race through to the end. Their is so much missing and changes have been made which I do not believe is an improvement. Saying this, it is still worth watching but would definitely recommend people to read the book as the book is much more "magical" and makes the reader care more about each character and their story.
  
Flavia has been sent to Canada and Miss Bodycote’s Female Academy for the fall 1951 term. She is very upset about being sent away from her family in England, but things definitely start looking up when a dead body falls out of her chimney on her first morning there. Who was the corpse? And who at the school is a killer?

Since this book takes place away from Flavia’s normal stomping grounds, it is easy to miss the series regulars. However, this book is filled with wonderful new supporting players. The book starts a little slowly as we are introduced to everyone, but soon we are caught in quite an interesting web that also advances the storyline introduced in the last book.

Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/09/book-review-as-chimney-sweepers-come-to.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.