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QuietlyBookish (65 KP) rated Every heart a doorway in Books
Jul 23, 2017
Unique Concept (2 more)
Diverse Characters
Engaging Plot
Magical Realism At It's Finest
This book was such a unique read, I was intrigued by the concept of following what happens to someone after they return from their adventures and their fantasy worlds, and the plot was executed really well.
I was a bit concerned when I saw that this book was under 200 pages, but it was done very well and I didn't feel like it was lacking anything. We got to know the characters, we got backstories and we got world building all in under 200 pages which was very impressive!
The characters are also diverse, there is an asexual character and a transgender character which was refreshing to read about. These characters are all complex and have a wide range of personalities. I loved reading the interactions between characters, at times I find myself laughing at the strange conversations they'd have!
The plot will drag you in very quickly, this is a fast paced read which went in a direction I wasn't expecting and I was guessing different things each chapter, none of which turned out to be correct! I highly recommend this book if you're trying to get out of a reading slump or you want to finish a book in the same day!
To me, this is reminiscent of Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs so if you're a fan of those books definitely consider this one! I will definitely be reading the next few books in the Wayward Children series!
I was a bit concerned when I saw that this book was under 200 pages, but it was done very well and I didn't feel like it was lacking anything. We got to know the characters, we got backstories and we got world building all in under 200 pages which was very impressive!
The characters are also diverse, there is an asexual character and a transgender character which was refreshing to read about. These characters are all complex and have a wide range of personalities. I loved reading the interactions between characters, at times I find myself laughing at the strange conversations they'd have!
The plot will drag you in very quickly, this is a fast paced read which went in a direction I wasn't expecting and I was guessing different things each chapter, none of which turned out to be correct! I highly recommend this book if you're trying to get out of a reading slump or you want to finish a book in the same day!
To me, this is reminiscent of Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs so if you're a fan of those books definitely consider this one! I will definitely be reading the next few books in the Wayward Children series!
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated The Good, the Bad, and the Undead (The Hollows, #2) in Books
Feb 15, 2019
Wow, another great book by Ms. Harrison! I loved <i>The Good, the Bad, and the Undead</i> and had a hard time putting it down. The only reason I'm not giving it a ten is for editing; there were mistakes using tenses (or it just could be possible missing letters) and a major forgotten character (not a major character, just part of this particular plot) that may be missing/dead/or who knows what. Also, since it has been awhile since I read <i>Dead Witch Walking</i>, I don't remember who Francis is and there's no mini-recap for him. Oh well, now I need to get the first book so I can re-read it! :)
As for the rest of the story, I really like Rachel, although I don't know about the direction the author is taking (or had taken) with Ivy; it just seems too much like the Anita Blake thing with what's-his-name, at least a tad bit. The way Nick was written in this book detracted from the little bit readers got out of the first book, and frankly, he could be a major pain-in-the-@$$! I'm a bit disappointed in how he's portrayed, but the other two males in this series are way more exciting and intriguing than he is. I'm sorry to say that, but it's the truth, and maybe Kim Harrison plans on phasing him out of future books. Luckily I have the next two books handy!
4.5 stars
As for the rest of the story, I really like Rachel, although I don't know about the direction the author is taking (or had taken) with Ivy; it just seems too much like the Anita Blake thing with what's-his-name, at least a tad bit. The way Nick was written in this book detracted from the little bit readers got out of the first book, and frankly, he could be a major pain-in-the-@$$! I'm a bit disappointed in how he's portrayed, but the other two males in this series are way more exciting and intriguing than he is. I'm sorry to say that, but it's the truth, and maybe Kim Harrison plans on phasing him out of future books. Luckily I have the next two books handy!
4.5 stars
ArecRain (8 KP) rated The Measure of a Lady in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I love me some Deeanne Gist, but I have never had a novel make me as angry as this one.
Everything about this novel was so obnoxious and contradictory that I wanted to scream. Rachel is an overbearing sister who is trying to set a good example for them, but, in reality, she is just a control freak who has been uprooted from all she has ever known and clearly does not like change since she does not even try to adapt to her new surroundings. What makes her character even more frustrating is that she tends to break all the rules that she sets forth for her siblings, mainly her sister.
Her younger sister is a whole other can of worms. While the brother seems almost nonexistent in the novel, only appearing when needed for furthering the story, Rachel's sister has grasp onto to this new found freedom, since Rachel cannot control her because she is too busy breaking her rules for being a lady. The younger sister takes this freedom and runs with it, wreaking all sorts of havoc while her bad attitude ever increases.
Out of all of Gist's books, this seems to be the most sensual. In her other books, the relationship of the protagonists seems more important than their hormonal need for each other. I felt like I was reading an 80's romance novel with the way they lusted after each other.
I am giving it two starts only because of its one redeeming factor: Gist's lovely style.
Everything about this novel was so obnoxious and contradictory that I wanted to scream. Rachel is an overbearing sister who is trying to set a good example for them, but, in reality, she is just a control freak who has been uprooted from all she has ever known and clearly does not like change since she does not even try to adapt to her new surroundings. What makes her character even more frustrating is that she tends to break all the rules that she sets forth for her siblings, mainly her sister.
Her younger sister is a whole other can of worms. While the brother seems almost nonexistent in the novel, only appearing when needed for furthering the story, Rachel's sister has grasp onto to this new found freedom, since Rachel cannot control her because she is too busy breaking her rules for being a lady. The younger sister takes this freedom and runs with it, wreaking all sorts of havoc while her bad attitude ever increases.
Out of all of Gist's books, this seems to be the most sensual. In her other books, the relationship of the protagonists seems more important than their hormonal need for each other. I felt like I was reading an 80's romance novel with the way they lusted after each other.
I am giving it two starts only because of its one redeeming factor: Gist's lovely style.
Merissa (13159 KP) rated Love or Sacrifice (Mages of the Nether #3) in Books
Feb 8, 2018
Love or Sacrifice (Mages of the Nether #3) by A.M. Halford
Love or Sacrifice is the third book in the Mages of the Nether series, and we focus on another 'Shield' - this time, it's William. He has appeared aloof, even cold, in previous books but we learn more about him in this one, and realise that it is just because he takes himself and his duty to Daniel and Aiden very seriously. However, he does want more, but is resigned to a lack of love in his life as he always put duty first. When Nevada drops into his life, he wants more, a lot more, but is afraid to move forwards. It takes some words from Daniel before he is prepared to open his heart to Nevada.
This is a brilliant book in the series, and we reunite with Daniel and Aiden, as well as Marcus and Edmond, whilst still giving William and Nevada plenty of time. As with the previous couples, you get some serious sexy times, but you get a story too. It isn't just erotica! It is a hot and steamy, well-thought-out and thoroughly enjoyable fantasy series. There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. I was engrossed from start to finish. And now I am left REALLY wanting Zachary's story! Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
This is a brilliant book in the series, and we reunite with Daniel and Aiden, as well as Marcus and Edmond, whilst still giving William and Nevada plenty of time. As with the previous couples, you get some serious sexy times, but you get a story too. It isn't just erotica! It is a hot and steamy, well-thought-out and thoroughly enjoyable fantasy series. There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. I was engrossed from start to finish. And now I am left REALLY wanting Zachary's story! Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Kyera (8 KP) rated Mockingjay in Books
Jan 31, 2018
A re-read of Mockingjay (and really the entire series) was long overdue. I haven't read the series since it came out and wanted to re=familiarize myself with it before watching the movie. I remember being Team Gale rather than Peeta (but that may have just been after the casting of Liam Hemsworth). Upon re-reading, I found myself not having a strong opinion about either suitor. Gale is much angrier than I recall him being, Peeta doesn't have much of an impression (after being jacked) and I just don't care what Katniss decides. That is certainly not how I felt in the first book. She becomes decidedly less relatable to me as the books progress. Hunger Games was definitely the strongest in the series and as a result, the finale felt like a bit of a letdown. The death toll was realistic, as they were embroiled in a war but not emotional. There were only a few deaths that I really felt, while the rest you could just immediately move on from. Perhaps that's terrible to say, but I believe they would have meant more if the reader was able to connect to the characters more. If you haven't read the series ye3t, what has taken you so long? Definitely read the series. The world building is wonderful, even if the ensemble cast can come across a bit flat at times. You will enjoy it if you're a fan of YA, dystopian fiction or want to read the books before you see their film adaptations.
Debbiereadsbook (1487 KP) rated Hiding From Two (Soul Match #3) in Books
Jun 30, 2018
really enjoying this series!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 3 in the Soul Match series, and you really DO need to read books one, Slave For Two and book two, Cherished By Two before you read this one. You need to know about Chris, Lasar and Nary and not all is recapped here.
Morgan is Chris' cousin and under Lasar's protective custody. After Advisor Hallosh helped save Morgan from the attack at the Nall's sex party, the Soul Match flares between them. But then it flares again when Morgan meets Rama, Lasar's warrior friend. But Morgan is scared, and it takes another vision that Chris has to make Morgan see, that there are worse things than being a third in a Soul Match bond. Time is running out, though, for both the human and Alasharian rebellion.
For me, the weakest of the three books so far, and I think it's mainly because of Morgan himself! He was so adamant that he would NOT match with Hallosh and Rama, and then BOOM, his opinion flipped on a penny and I felt it a bit much.
We do get some Chris and that vision the Shar Shar Ar graces Chris with. We get what's happening with the Nall and the Void.
And we are introduced to Graham in the most horrific way. His book is next.
So, not as good as book 2, but on a par with book one.
4 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere*
This is book 3 in the Soul Match series, and you really DO need to read books one, Slave For Two and book two, Cherished By Two before you read this one. You need to know about Chris, Lasar and Nary and not all is recapped here.
Morgan is Chris' cousin and under Lasar's protective custody. After Advisor Hallosh helped save Morgan from the attack at the Nall's sex party, the Soul Match flares between them. But then it flares again when Morgan meets Rama, Lasar's warrior friend. But Morgan is scared, and it takes another vision that Chris has to make Morgan see, that there are worse things than being a third in a Soul Match bond. Time is running out, though, for both the human and Alasharian rebellion.
For me, the weakest of the three books so far, and I think it's mainly because of Morgan himself! He was so adamant that he would NOT match with Hallosh and Rama, and then BOOM, his opinion flipped on a penny and I felt it a bit much.
We do get some Chris and that vision the Shar Shar Ar graces Chris with. We get what's happening with the Nall and the Void.
And we are introduced to Graham in the most horrific way. His book is next.
So, not as good as book 2, but on a par with book one.
4 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere*
Debbiereadsbook (1487 KP) rated Sweet Possession (Nights Series #5) in Books
Aug 9, 2018
I'm not liking Luke and Ash!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 5 in the Nights series, and you should AT LEAST read book 4, Sweet Obsession before this one, this is a continuation of Ash and Luke's story.
I LOVED books one through three, but four and now five, have been a bit of a let down. Maybe I just don't like Luke and Ash, you know??
This has a little bit of a story, thrown in with some hot and steamy stuff, and a lot of Luke being a total twat of an idiot thinking about what he thinks Ash needs. And rather than talking to Ash, he runs. Much like Cam did when Gabe says those three little words.
I loved that Ash could make the famous Luke Rutherford lose his cool and totally let himself go and take from, and indeed GIVE to, Ash, what they both really need.
Loved that we get an appearance from Gabe and Cam, and Ethan and Joe.
I dunno WHY these two books didn't quite work for me, I really don't and you KNOW how much it pains me not being able to word the feelings!
BUT!! In book 3, I saw something going on between the two guys who own the company Gabe works for. THEIR story is next, and I cannot wait to read it!
So, I'm sorry, but...
3 stars (but please keep these coming!)
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is book 5 in the Nights series, and you should AT LEAST read book 4, Sweet Obsession before this one, this is a continuation of Ash and Luke's story.
I LOVED books one through three, but four and now five, have been a bit of a let down. Maybe I just don't like Luke and Ash, you know??
This has a little bit of a story, thrown in with some hot and steamy stuff, and a lot of Luke being a total twat of an idiot thinking about what he thinks Ash needs. And rather than talking to Ash, he runs. Much like Cam did when Gabe says those three little words.
I loved that Ash could make the famous Luke Rutherford lose his cool and totally let himself go and take from, and indeed GIVE to, Ash, what they both really need.
Loved that we get an appearance from Gabe and Cam, and Ethan and Joe.
I dunno WHY these two books didn't quite work for me, I really don't and you KNOW how much it pains me not being able to word the feelings!
BUT!! In book 3, I saw something going on between the two guys who own the company Gabe works for. THEIR story is next, and I cannot wait to read it!
So, I'm sorry, but...
3 stars (but please keep these coming!)
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
BobbiesDustyPages (1259 KP) rated Station Eleven in Books
Oct 15, 2018
Beautifully written and just so human.
I had this book recommended quite a few times to me I even bought it almost a year ago and just never got around to picking it up and it kept popping up in one of my Facebook groups so I thought I'd finally give it a chance since all the comment were very positive and I cannot tell you how glad I am that I finally gave it a chance. The story in itself is really simple but it's absolutely beautifully written Mandel really has a way with words that I can't even describe her whole story just flow together so beautifully I love the back and forth between the time before and after the epidemic the characters flawed and honestly it's just so human and beautiful that I couldn't stop reading. One of the things that really stuck out to me most was that when it came to Station Eleven and when certain characters had to take a life it wasn't some proud moment like it is in most dystopian books it was a heartbreaking moment it was something that the characters didn't want to have to go through and I found it so beautiful and absolutely heartbreaking. As the story progresses and you find out more about certain characters and how everything connected it was just so beautifully done and I really could just go on forever praising this book definitely one of the best books I've read this year.
Merissa (13159 KP) rated Venomous Craving (Eok Warriors #1) in Books
Oct 17, 2018
Venomous Craving (Eok Warriors #1) by Mary Auclair
Venomous Craving is the first book in the Eok Warriors series, and we are introduced to the whole world. Humans have been hunted to near-extinction, and now live in 'protected facilities'. They are basically breeders, although a small group managed to escape over twenty years ago, and have been surviving since then. However, things are tough for them, and it is at a tough time when Rose is captured. Taken away to be sold as a slave, she constantly worries for the family she had no choice but to leave behind. When she sees her chance for escape, she takes it, but finds herself with another person too.
This was a well thought out, intricate, science fiction romance. There is plenty of action, with political twists and turns, plus personal betrayal. For those wanting sexy times, don't worry! There is plenty of those, but they don't detract from the story.
This is only book one, so I am hopeful the questions I still have unanswered will be answered in either the next book, or future books. With no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt my reading flow, plus excellent story and character building, and a whole host of supporting characters I want to hear more about, I have no hesitation in recommending this book. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
* 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!
This was a well thought out, intricate, science fiction romance. There is plenty of action, with political twists and turns, plus personal betrayal. For those wanting sexy times, don't worry! There is plenty of those, but they don't detract from the story.
This is only book one, so I am hopeful the questions I still have unanswered will be answered in either the next book, or future books. With no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt my reading flow, plus excellent story and character building, and a whole host of supporting characters I want to hear more about, I have no hesitation in recommending this book. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
* 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!
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated For the Record in Books
Jan 2, 2019
After reading Regina's novella Her Dearly Unintended in the collection With This Ring? I decided that I just HAD to read one of her full length books. I am so glad I did. Set in 1885 in the hills of Missouri, For the Record is a charming, adventure filled, book. The Dashing Deputy has an immediate sense of mystery that made me want to know more about him. And Betsy has a free spirit that melds perfectly with Deputy Puckett. Their banter and their adventures are a joy to follow and thrilling to read.
This book was a slow start for me. I'm sure it had more to do with the holidays than anything else. Because, once I got into the meat of the story, I couldn't put it down. Sprinkled with faith, Betsy and Joel's story is a fast riding adventure that is sure to keep you up till the break of dawn solving the mystery.
Although this is the third book in the series, I was able to follow the storyline just fine. I have a feeling that that the characters would make more sense if I had read the first two books. However, For the Record is a stand alone and can be read as such. If the thought of a Texan deputy thrown into the Ozarks intrigues you, I don't think you will be disappointed.
I received a complimentary copy of For the Record from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
This book was a slow start for me. I'm sure it had more to do with the holidays than anything else. Because, once I got into the meat of the story, I couldn't put it down. Sprinkled with faith, Betsy and Joel's story is a fast riding adventure that is sure to keep you up till the break of dawn solving the mystery.
Although this is the third book in the series, I was able to follow the storyline just fine. I have a feeling that that the characters would make more sense if I had read the first two books. However, For the Record is a stand alone and can be read as such. If the thought of a Texan deputy thrown into the Ozarks intrigues you, I don't think you will be disappointed.
I received a complimentary copy of For the Record from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.