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Black Swan Collected Tales, Books 1-6
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Included are: Book 1, My Familiar Stranger: The Vampire Hunters. (Nominated for best paranormal...
Paranormal Romance Series
Merissa (13822 KP) rated Bad Idea (Brooklyn Kings #1) in Books
Feb 20, 2025
BAD IDEA is the first book in the Brooklyn Kings series and we're off to an amazing start!
Hayden is the best of the best when it comes to being a PA. No false modesty here, folks. When he unexpectedly needs a new job, he is sent to the Brooklyn Kings where he reunites with Armi, a hot one-night stand they had recently had. What follows is simply fantastic.
I can honestly say that this book had me in its grip from the start, but I was really REALLY on tenterhooks just waiting for Russell to slip up. Oh man, but how I hated that character, truly! And then he sank even lower. 😡
There is no unnecessary angst, just honest-to-God worries about past mistakes, concerns about the present, and hope for the future. This book had it all. The best bit for me was seeing Armand grow in his confidence, to the benefit of the Brooklyn Kings as well as him personally. BUT the relationship and support worked both ways, it wasn't just Hayden supporting Armi.
What a brilliant beginning to what I am sure will be an amazing series. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book and can't wait for the next.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 20, 2025
Hayden is the best of the best when it comes to being a PA. No false modesty here, folks. When he unexpectedly needs a new job, he is sent to the Brooklyn Kings where he reunites with Armi, a hot one-night stand they had recently had. What follows is simply fantastic.
I can honestly say that this book had me in its grip from the start, but I was really REALLY on tenterhooks just waiting for Russell to slip up. Oh man, but how I hated that character, truly! And then he sank even lower. 😡
There is no unnecessary angst, just honest-to-God worries about past mistakes, concerns about the present, and hope for the future. This book had it all. The best bit for me was seeing Armand grow in his confidence, to the benefit of the Brooklyn Kings as well as him personally. BUT the relationship and support worked both ways, it wasn't just Hayden supporting Armi.
What a brilliant beginning to what I am sure will be an amazing series. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book and can't wait for the next.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 20, 2025
Rachel King (13 KP) rated Tempted (House of Night, #6) in Books
Feb 11, 2019
In terms of plot, I would say this is the worst book of the series. Loose ends are left dangling all over the place, more questions are formed than answered, and (spoiler!) the main character, Zoey escapes into the afterlife "Otherworld." The last page is like a huge "To Be Continued..." and I just hate so-called endings like that. Most of the book is spent making plans regarding Kalona and Neferet, the red fledglings, and the House of Night school, but very little is actually accomplished. I appreciate that the series seems to move in real-time, but at the same time, things need to move a bit faster for anything to actually happen. The most exciting thing was Stevie Rae's near-death experience, which isn't saying much. I was greatly antipating the group's trip to Venice, but their meeting with the High Council was strangely short and anti-climactic. I think that at least one vampyre on the council should have disagreed with Neferet's lies, since Kalona's hypnotic powers are supposed to rely on choice.
The things I did like about the book are what I've like about the entire series. I love how the characters all strive for normalcy, even when everything around them is completely paranormal. I love the dialogue and how it is very typically teenager-ish. I also love how Zoey makes tons of mistakes, even though she has the favor of the Goddess. The one "loose end" that did seem to get taken care of in a way was the Imprint between Aphrodite and Stevie Rae being broken, though it just formed another loose end with Stevie Rae hiding the Raven Mocker Rephaim from everyone else.
I will likely stay loyal to the series in the hopes that the plot improves with the next book, Burned.
The things I did like about the book are what I've like about the entire series. I love how the characters all strive for normalcy, even when everything around them is completely paranormal. I love the dialogue and how it is very typically teenager-ish. I also love how Zoey makes tons of mistakes, even though she has the favor of the Goddess. The one "loose end" that did seem to get taken care of in a way was the Imprint between Aphrodite and Stevie Rae being broken, though it just formed another loose end with Stevie Rae hiding the Raven Mocker Rephaim from everyone else.
I will likely stay loyal to the series in the hopes that the plot improves with the next book, Burned.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2498 KP) rated Murder on Lenox Hill in Books
Feb 13, 2019
My First Disappointment in This Series
It’s a cold winter’s day when midwife Sarah Brandt is summoned to the Linton home. When she arrives, it is to discovered they are worried about their daughter Grace. While biologically almost a young woman, mentally she is still a child. And yet, her parents think she is pregnant. Sarah’s examination confirms their suspicions, but Grace never leaves them. How could this have happened to her? Who would take advantage of her like that? Meanwhile, Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy has been summoned to see Sarah’s father. Mr. Decker wants Frank to work further on his investigation into the murder of Sarah’s husband, Tom. Decker insists that Tom was not that man that Sarah thought he was, and he is certain that this investigation will help Sarah learn the truth. Is Decker correct? Can Frank find the truth while sparing Sarah from any pain?
Yes, my discussion about a current murder is missing on purpose since the body isn’t found until late in the book. There is still plenty of plot to keep us engaged until that happens, but unfortunately it felt very predictable. I had most of this book figured out long before Sarah and Frank did. I’m often a step or two ahead of them, but not this far ahead. I do still recommend this book to series fans since there are some significant developments on series arcs in this book, and you’ll want to see what happens there. The subject matter is fairly sensitive, but it is handled delicately without going into too much detail. Don’t make this the first in the series you pick up, but if you are already a fan, you’ll want to know what happens to Sarah and Frank here.
Yes, my discussion about a current murder is missing on purpose since the body isn’t found until late in the book. There is still plenty of plot to keep us engaged until that happens, but unfortunately it felt very predictable. I had most of this book figured out long before Sarah and Frank did. I’m often a step or two ahead of them, but not this far ahead. I do still recommend this book to series fans since there are some significant developments on series arcs in this book, and you’ll want to see what happens there. The subject matter is fairly sensitive, but it is handled delicately without going into too much detail. Don’t make this the first in the series you pick up, but if you are already a fan, you’ll want to know what happens to Sarah and Frank here.
Merissa (13822 KP) rated Dishonored (Mortisalian Saga #3) in Books
Jun 4, 2019
Dishonored (Mortisalian Saga #3) by L.J. Stock
Dishonored is the third fantastic story in this series, and we continue where we left off. Now, it's been a while since I read the other books, but I was immediately drawn back into their world, and knew exactly what was going on with the characters. That, to me, is the sign of a great book/series.
Everyone's character still remains true, in other words, they are not suddenly acting strange after all this time. The world-building is once again perfect. For me though, what makes this book outstanding are the relationships between the characters - all the characters, not just the main ones. Seeing Cas with Damon, Rasmus, Grigori, Shannon, Alexa, and the rest, makes it all the more... everything.
The pacing is on point, with it moving fast enough to keep my attention, but not too fast that I get lost with what is going on. The story continues to have it's twists and turns, with intrigue layered upon that. There is a shock in here, toward the end, that I never saw coming. I couldn't see much after that either, as my eyes were leaking!
What an ending! Seriously.
I really can't emphasise how much I am enjoying this series, and have absolutely no hesitation in recommending it, but you MUST read it as a series, not a set of standalones. Bring on the next, I really need to find out where Ras has disappeared to!
* 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!
Everyone's character still remains true, in other words, they are not suddenly acting strange after all this time. The world-building is once again perfect. For me though, what makes this book outstanding are the relationships between the characters - all the characters, not just the main ones. Seeing Cas with Damon, Rasmus, Grigori, Shannon, Alexa, and the rest, makes it all the more... everything.
The pacing is on point, with it moving fast enough to keep my attention, but not too fast that I get lost with what is going on. The story continues to have it's twists and turns, with intrigue layered upon that. There is a shock in here, toward the end, that I never saw coming. I couldn't see much after that either, as my eyes were leaking!
What an ending! Seriously.
I really can't emphasise how much I am enjoying this series, and have absolutely no hesitation in recommending it, but you MUST read it as a series, not a set of standalones. Bring on the next, I really need to find out where Ras has disappeared to!
* 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!
Kyera (8 KP) rated The Ship of the Dead (Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard, #3) in Books
Feb 1, 2018
Magnus Chase: Ship of the Dead is the final book in the series that blends Norse mythology with the modern world. Rick Riordan writes in his typical humourous fashion and makes learning fun (even if itÂ’s not always entirely accurate.) As this is the third and final book in the series, there isnÂ’t too much to say that wouldnÂ’t spoil the first two books if you have not read them so I would recommend doing so before reading this review. You can also read my review of the first book as it is spoiler-free.
Our heroes continue their journey to postpone Ragnarok and defeat Loki. Magnus is joined by Samirah the Valkyrie, Hearthstone the Elf, Blitzen the Dwarf and his fellow Einherjar Alex, Mallory, TJ and Halfborn. They must battle giants, outwit guardians, and save the world from utter destruction. Just your average Tuesday.
I really enjoyed how diversity was represented in this series as we have main characters with different sexualities or orientations, religions, ethnicities, and disabilities. Since I am not most of the ones that were represented in the book, I can't speak to how accurate the portrayal was but I am glad that they were included. As a casual reader, the representation felt informative and not condescending or demeaning.
Rick continues his world building by sending our heroes off on adventures in the nine realms while simultaneously teaching us a bit about Norse mythology. His books are a very approachable way to tackle the topic and perhaps foster a sense of curiosity that will lead readers to want to discover more. There isn't much else to say without spoilers, so I would recommend this series to middle grade, young adult or teen readers who enjoy fantasy. It is a fun, easy read that I hope you won't regret picking up.
Our heroes continue their journey to postpone Ragnarok and defeat Loki. Magnus is joined by Samirah the Valkyrie, Hearthstone the Elf, Blitzen the Dwarf and his fellow Einherjar Alex, Mallory, TJ and Halfborn. They must battle giants, outwit guardians, and save the world from utter destruction. Just your average Tuesday.
I really enjoyed how diversity was represented in this series as we have main characters with different sexualities or orientations, religions, ethnicities, and disabilities. Since I am not most of the ones that were represented in the book, I can't speak to how accurate the portrayal was but I am glad that they were included. As a casual reader, the representation felt informative and not condescending or demeaning.
Rick continues his world building by sending our heroes off on adventures in the nine realms while simultaneously teaching us a bit about Norse mythology. His books are a very approachable way to tackle the topic and perhaps foster a sense of curiosity that will lead readers to want to discover more. There isn't much else to say without spoilers, so I would recommend this series to middle grade, young adult or teen readers who enjoy fantasy. It is a fun, easy read that I hope you won't regret picking up.
Veronica Pena (690 KP) rated P.S. I Still Love You (To All the Boys I've Loved Before, #2) in Books
Jan 21, 2020
I loved the first book in this trilogy so much so going into this one, I had expectations. I was nervous to see what happened between John Ambrose McClaren and Lara Jean, especially because I found myself being Team Peter all the way. I think that this book, actually just the series as a whole is one that is just so sweet and pure and I think it's a new take on a love story. I feel like young adult and fiction is so saturated with love stories that it's hard to find good ones, ones that feel real and make your heart stop, the kind of romance stories that would make a good movie, ya know? I really think this series is out of the box and I like the diversity that it brings not only to YA but to the entire romance genre in general.
It's clear that this book is a stepping stone between the first and the third. It's not as fast-paced as the first book and the details that end up mattering aren't always the biggest ones. It's definitely a bridge that I hope will bring the first and the third together in a way that rounds out the story and I'm excited to see what happens in the conclusion of the series.
I love Lara Jean as a character and her innocence. I know that I'm not that far out from being 16, going on 17, but it's easy to get caught up in the facets of adult life and having to take care of everything all the time and be serious and have a lot of responsibilities. What I like the most about this series is how it transports you and next thing you know, you're 16, going on 17, and you're falling in love with Peter Kavinsky alongside Lara Jean Song Covey.
It's clear that this book is a stepping stone between the first and the third. It's not as fast-paced as the first book and the details that end up mattering aren't always the biggest ones. It's definitely a bridge that I hope will bring the first and the third together in a way that rounds out the story and I'm excited to see what happens in the conclusion of the series.
I love Lara Jean as a character and her innocence. I know that I'm not that far out from being 16, going on 17, but it's easy to get caught up in the facets of adult life and having to take care of everything all the time and be serious and have a lot of responsibilities. What I like the most about this series is how it transports you and next thing you know, you're 16, going on 17, and you're falling in love with Peter Kavinsky alongside Lara Jean Song Covey.
Vennebyen - Tell med Ted
Book and Education
App
An interactive counting book for the very young, based on the successful children’s TV series,...
Merissa (13822 KP) rated Kelvin (Tangled Tentacles #5) in Books
Dec 20, 2022
KELVIN is the final book in the Tangled Tentacles series and brings to a close this amazing series. Kelvin and Magnus (or FBI Guy) finally meet in person and realise they are fated mates. No fuss, no panic, just straight-up acceptance and happiness. I loved that, I really did. They don't allow their new bond to stand in the way of those they are trying to help though. By searching for others, they find Marvin. Be prepared for your heart to melt!
Wow! Just... wow!!! That's how I felt after I'd finished reading this. The overlying arc, the one that I've followed since Alexi, is now finished - in a way I never saw coming and that I love even more for that. All of the mates and their partners feature in this book which also helped with the general feeling of closure. There is also one moment in there that made my eyes leak. It's when Magnus is remembering his sister, with Kelvin by his side in the pool. There were a few scenes or sentences (usually by Marvin) that made me fill up. That scene? Broke me down. So emotional and perfect.
What I can't wait for, though, is the continuation. That epilogue!!! Man, it about killed me. I NEED MORE!!!
This pair of authors are simply outstanding - writing unusual and intricate stories with a skill second to none. I have loved the whole series and HIGHLY RECOMMEND every single one of them. What a way to end this series and to still leave you wanting more!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Wow! Just... wow!!! That's how I felt after I'd finished reading this. The overlying arc, the one that I've followed since Alexi, is now finished - in a way I never saw coming and that I love even more for that. All of the mates and their partners feature in this book which also helped with the general feeling of closure. There is also one moment in there that made my eyes leak. It's when Magnus is remembering his sister, with Kelvin by his side in the pool. There were a few scenes or sentences (usually by Marvin) that made me fill up. That scene? Broke me down. So emotional and perfect.
What I can't wait for, though, is the continuation. That epilogue!!! Man, it about killed me. I NEED MORE!!!
This pair of authors are simply outstanding - writing unusual and intricate stories with a skill second to none. I have loved the whole series and HIGHLY RECOMMEND every single one of them. What a way to end this series and to still leave you wanting more!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Merissa (13822 KP) rated Endless (The Awakening Series #3) in Books
Apr 12, 2023
This is the third (and final) book in this series which has knocked my socks off from the very beginning. This, for me, is a complete 5-star series that hasn't been 'let down' by any weak or weaker books. It starts off strong, carries on strong and then finishes with such a wallop, you'll be left breathless. Unfortunately for me, it isn't Endless and did indeed come to a conclusion. A most satisfactory one too, may I just add.
Selene still has choices to make but she doesn't really have time to breathe, let alone think about things that, although important, are not quite as important as actually trying to stay alive. This book is non-stop action. What will Selene do? What choices will she make? And will this war ever come to an end without someone we know and love dying?
You will find all this and so much more in the conclusion to The Awakening Series. I loved how the story all tied together at the end and explanations are given for things that Selene (and the reader) had questioned. You are not left with any uncertainties but with satisfaction instead. The only problem I had was that I reached the end, couldn't believe it, so went back a few pages on my Kindle. Reached the end, still couldn't believe it so actually did it a third time. THAT is how much I didn't want this series to end. Absolutely brilliant and highly recommended to all.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
September 1, 2016
Selene still has choices to make but she doesn't really have time to breathe, let alone think about things that, although important, are not quite as important as actually trying to stay alive. This book is non-stop action. What will Selene do? What choices will she make? And will this war ever come to an end without someone we know and love dying?
You will find all this and so much more in the conclusion to The Awakening Series. I loved how the story all tied together at the end and explanations are given for things that Selene (and the reader) had questioned. You are not left with any uncertainties but with satisfaction instead. The only problem I had was that I reached the end, couldn't believe it, so went back a few pages on my Kindle. Reached the end, still couldn't believe it so actually did it a third time. THAT is how much I didn't want this series to end. Absolutely brilliant and highly recommended to all.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
September 1, 2016