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Shield of the Rising Sun (Path of Nemesis #3)
Shield of the Rising Sun (Path of Nemesis #3)
Adam Lofthouse | 2020 | Fiction & Poetry, History & Politics
9
9.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
This is the third book in a series of historical fiction novels set in the Roman era. Even though I haven’t read the first two books, I had no problem at all in understanding what was going on in the Shield of the Rising Sun. Although that now doesn’t stop me from wanting to read the first two books!

The story is told by three characters: Albinus, his son Faustus, and Faustus’ uncle, Calvus. The battle scenes, mainly from Albinus’ point of view, were gory (I like this - I know, probably a bit odd!) and the politics with all the infighting and back-stabbing was fascinating. How did anyone ever feel safe at this time? I’ll answer that: if they were clever, they NEVER felt safe!

This story shows the true reach of the Roman Empire - there are scenes in Britain, Germany and Egypt, as well as in Rome. It frankly amazed me how quickly Roman soldiers seemed to be able to travel - and mostly (if not solely) on foot!

The main characters were all three very likeable men, who had me rooting for them throughout - even though it was pretty obvious what would happen to one of them from the start )I’m giving nothing away here!).

I enjoy reading a lot of historical fiction, and it’s not often that I read books set in the Roman period. I don’t know why, there’s no reason I can think of, and this makes me realise that I really should read more! If, like me, you’re a fan of historical fiction, then you’ll enjoy the rich descriptions and history packed story within the pages of this book.

Many thanks to The Pigeonhole for serialising this book, and to Adam Lofthouse for joining in and commenting in the margins!
  
Shifter Protection Specialists, Inc Box Set
Shifter Protection Specialists, Inc Box Set
S.A. Welsh | 2019 | LGBTQ+, Paranormal, Romance
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
different and different is GOOD!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of these books

 Kale’s brother drags him to the Shifter Protection Specialists when a deranged fan starts sending threatening male. Kale doesn’t want close protection, but when the mountain of a man walks into the room, Kale knows he would suffer anything to be with this man. Aleski’s sabre tooth tiger takes a shine to Kale, and he quickly realised they could be mates. But the fan is getting closer, and more deadly, and not even Aleski knows if he can keep Kale safe.

I have a soft spot of shifters of a different sort, and you don’t see many (not EVER!) some of the animal halves of these shifters who work together and a sabre tooth tiger is somewhat different and I really rather enjoyed this!

There isn’t that MINE moment, at least not right away, and I loved watching Aleski and Kale fall for each other. Kale calms Aleski’s tiger, stands up to the man where others would run a mile. Oh Aleski would LOVE that Kale ran away, if only for his tiger to play chase with the much smaller model! But Kale isn’t others, and he knows that Aleski is the man and the TIGER for him.

I did not see who the fan might be coming at me, not at all, so well played there!

It’s sexy and sweet, steamy and emotional and I really did enjoy it!

4 solid stars

**same worded review will appear elsewhere**

Protecting his asset

tags: debbie, 4 stars, male/male, romance, shifters, military dudes

I had read this book previously, but when I went back to read my review, I couldn’t pull it up, cos my review really did not give anything away, so I read it again. This is my original review, though.


George knew his father was bad to the bane, he just didn't think he'd go as low as he did. George needs help. The sort of help Scott and his brothers provide. But George has secrets he didn't know he had, and those secrets could kill Scott.

I liked this, a lot! I've not read book one in this series, and I think it would have helped me to. Its just for me, it doesn't affect my star rating or my reading experience. I'll probably go back at some point and read it.

This is told from both Scott and George's POV, so we get to hear from both of them/

It has drama and danger. Some twists I did not see coming. Some interesting shifter types too. Snakes, lizards, phoenix and dragons as well as the usual bears and big cats.

It was an easy read, with just enough information filtered through, all in the right places, to keep you on your toes and interested.

Its the first I've read of this author. I will, as I said, go back and read book one in this series. I should also like to read any future books too. Some hints were made to possible future story lines and I would like to see them through.

4 stars.

**same worded review will appear elsewhere**


Guarding his Mark,

4 stars, male/male, shifters, military dudes, romance, crime/thriller

Khan was subjected to experiments as a child, and as an adult tries to steer clear of hospitals. But when he comes across a sexy man who is testing the use of snake venom on children with cancer, Khan can’t stay away. He needs to make sure that Casey is actually doing what he says he is. He also needs to keep the man safe, cos someone is clearly out to get Casey.

This one is my favourite of the three!

Khan is a King Cobra, and his venom is helping Casey find a cure for his niece. But someone else wants Casey’s research, and not for what Casey intended it for.

Casey and Khan have instant and powerful attraction right from the start, and it burns hot and bright right through the book. It’s super hawt!

I am really enjoying reading about these guys, there are a few of them who have tales to tell, I hope. I can’t find any more than these three though, and I do hope the author hasn’t left them other things!

I almost read all three books in one sitting, but the darn day job got in the way. I would have, though, had it not. I loved these.

Definitely different, and different is ALWAYS good in my book!

4 solid stars across all three books.
  
The Impact Zone (Ryder Bay #2)
The Impact Zone (Ryder Bay #2)
Jordan Ford | 2019 | Contemporary, Romance, Young Adult (YA)
8
9.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
The Impact Zone (Ryder Bay #2) by Jordan Ford
The Impact Zone is the second book in the Ryder Bay series, and whilst I enjoyed my foray back to Ryder Bay, I didn't quite enjoy it as much as the first book... and I don't really know why!

Skylar is still in a coma, and Savannah is drowning in responsibilities. You find out more about Aiden and their break up through Savannah's eyes, including how she becomes friends with Harley. Savannah is a genuinely nice person, and very mature for her age as life experiences haven't always been easy. Griffin is the perfect match for her, but he isn't sure if he will stay in Ryder Bay or not, due to his own story.

With Aiden, Harley, and even Jed, playing a part in this story, I couldn't help but relax and enjoy as the story moved along. This did feel like a transitional book though, and I think that's why I didn't enjoy it as much. Griffin and Savannah get their HFN, but you are left with a major event happening right at the end, which may impact on just who Savannah is exactly.

I still thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I can't wait to continue the series, AND see how the characters continue to change and grow. I really want them to all be happy, but with some of the darker characters still in play, this isn't guaranteed! Excellent writing once again, and I'm left wanting more.

* 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!
  
PP
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Pelican Point is the fourth novel in the Hope Harbor series. In this intriguing novel, we are introduced to Army doctor Ben Garrison who has arrived back to Hope Harbor for his grandfather's funeral.

Ben, being sole heir is left everything, including the run-down lighthouse at Pelican Point. Ben wants to settle his grandfather's affairs and move on to his new practice in Ohio and that means selling an old lighthouse no one wants to buy; until a developer puts in a bid to buy it and the whole town comes together thanks to Marci, the local newspaper editor to save the landmark.

Can Ben who wants nothing more to settle the estate can't push past the feelings he has for Marci, the strong-willed red headed newspaper editor. Both Ben and Marci are dealing with past issues that have made them skittish about forming relationships. Will they be able to move past these issues and yield to their feelings?

The writer has done a great job of bringing you into the small town of Hope Harbor and into the lives of the characters she has created. I especially appreciated the way all the characters in Hope Harbor revolved around the lighthouse and Charly the taco king.

I like the way she artfully interweaves the characters in this story and creates a subplot.

Although this novel is the fourth in a series, it can stand alone without reading the first three, but once you've read this one you will want to read the rest.

 I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
  
The Forgotten Room
The Forgotten Room
Lincoln Child | 2016 | Fiction & Poetry
6
6.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
I am a big fan of both Lincoln Child and Douglas Preston, whether writing on their own or together as a team. I’m always excited when one of them has a new book published, so I was really looking forward to this one. I enjoyed the first three books in this series (LOVED #1 and #2), and I really wanted to love this book too. I have to admit that I was disappointed. It is still a good book, just not the great book that I was hoping for.


Dr. Jeremy Logan is an enigmologist called in to investigate the strange death of a scientist at Lux, a think-tank where Dr. Logan himself worked for a short time before being ousted for his non-traditional work. The scientists sudden strange behavior right before his death has the administration concerned enough to call in an expert, and due to the nature of the death, they decide that Jeremy is the perfect person to bring in to investigate.

He discovers a secret room in the west wing of the Lux complex, one that had just recently been discovered during some renovation work being done there. There is some strange equipment in this room, and evidence that someone else has been frequenting the room. Dr. Logan has to find out what research was being done in this forgotten room, and who might be trying to continue that work now.

It had an intriguing plot, and interesting characters, but some of Jeremy’s decisions and actions left me questioning his supposed intelligence in this one. It’s still a decent thriller though, and fans of the series won’t want to miss it.
  
The Eagle and the Fox (A Snowy Range Mystery #1)
The Eagle and the Fox (A Snowy Range Mystery #1)
Nya Rawlyns | 2015 | Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Mystery
8
9.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
The Eagle and the Fox (A Snowy Range Mystery #1) by Nya Rawlyns
The Eagle and the Fox is the first book in the Snowy Range Mystery series.

The story is about two adult males, a young girl, and her secret boyfriend. The two adult men, Josiah and Marcus, have known each other for years, but only to 'grunt' to each other as they pass by in the store that Marcus owns. Pet is the young girl that Marcus keeps an eye on, like an adopted uncle. He took her on to save her, but you'll need to read the book to find out what he was saving her from! And Kit is her secret boyfriend, a mysterious figure that we don't actually learn much about.

Once Josiah and Marcus start talking, things move at a pretty pace for them. Not only do they have their feelings for each other to contend with, but they also have the problems with Pet, plus the trouble in town that is happening.

I found this book to be very well written, with no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt my reading flow. The characters are well rounded and well suited to the story. This story is a definite mix of romance and mystery. It defies being in just one genre. It is finished off for this story, but the ending is definitely left open for it to continue. Looking forward to book two to see where it will go next.

If you like a bit of mystery with your romance, then I can definitely recommend this book/series.

* 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!
  
Sweet Water (Birds of a Feather #2)
Sweet Water (Birds of a Feather #2)
Lena North | 2017 | Contemporary, Paranormal, Young Adult (YA)
8
7.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
Sweet Water (Birds of a Feather #2) by Lena North
Sweet Water is the second book in the Birds of a Feather series, and we concentrate on Jinx in this story. Although she is an off-the-scale genius (quite literally), the stress of everything is getting to her. She is not sleeping, losing weight, getting attacked in her own home, and fighting with Wilder. As a result, she decides to honour her promise to Wilder on her own terms - and that is by researching the crystal in Marshes. This is a small village far enough away from Wilder for Jinx to find herself again. She gets more than she bargained for though, and is her own worst enemy at times. Luckily for her, she has more friends than she realised who are there to help her recover, even if she doesn't agree!

Whilst this book isn't as blatant in it's paranormal side, it is still there. By the book being this way, it gives Jinx a chance to shine. You learn more about her, about who is after her, and what they want. She is accepted into the village, and you will find yourself hoping she stays there after the six months is over. Dante appeared in Wilder and he is the main male character here. Seeing their relationship develop from dislike (or so Jinx thinks) to more, was simply brilliant.

I think I may have enjoyed this book a bit more than Wilder, which surprised me because there was no mention of Vilda or the others. Wilder also wasn't the nicest to Jinx, but she is only human after all.

This was a great addition to the series, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Definitely recommended by me.

* Verified Purchase ~ July 2018. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
  
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ClareR (5906 KP) rated Dracul in Books

Dec 11, 2018  
Dracul
Dracul
J.D. Barker, Dacre Stoker | 2018 | Horror
9
8.7 (7 Ratings)
Book Rating
The start of Bram Stokers biography?
And to think that I nearly gave up on this to begin with! At about 20% in, it just didn't seem to be drawing me in at all. So how pleased am I that I persevered?!!

This is a prequel to Bram Stokers Dracula, and is the story of Bram himself. It postulates that Dracula and vampires really do exist, Bram and his family had an intimate relationship with one (not like THAT!), and Dracula was written as a warning about the Undead. Well, I clearly don't know what to believe now!
The language used in this novel is a little more up to date than Bram Stokers original: it's written for the modern reader (as Bram's was at the time, I suppose), and is consequently much easier to read. This book is supposedly based on notes that Bram left behind - whether they were ideas for another book, or they were 'actual occurrences', we'll never really know.

Bram and his family are followed from Bram's early childhood, up until well after their encounter with Dracul. It's exciting, there's loads of action, and I had some serious worries about Bram's siblings! There's loads of historical detail (potato famine in Ireland, disease, poverty) which I rather enjoyed. But it's the encounters with the vampires that I really loved. There's always going to be someone that makes the comparison to 'that' vampire series, and so I'll be the one. There IS NO comparison. These aren't nicey-nicey vampires who sparkle. These are largely speaking, evil, dark-magic-using, killing machines. Much more fun.


 I think this is probably going to be a series. Which I will obviously be reading. Obviously.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book.
  
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Ross (3284 KP) Dec 11, 2018

I totally agree with the slow start. So glad you stuck with it and loved it. I'm not sure if there will be more, but Dacre has already written a sequel of sorts - Dracula - The Un-Dead, which is not totally dreadful but a similar offering to this, albeit of lower quality. It echoes Bram Stoker's time at the Lyceum Theatre so has that same element of being based on his life. The writing is nowhere near as good as this though. Its currently £1.49 on UK Kindle so not the end of the world if you hate it (I thought it was half-decent but I think it has been roundly slated).

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ClareR (5906 KP) Dec 11, 2018

Thanks Ross - I might just have a look!!

The Missing Diamonds (Agent Zaiba Investigates, #1)
The Missing Diamonds (Agent Zaiba Investigates, #1)
Annabelle Sami | 2020 | Children, Mystery
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
The protagonist in this novel is Zaiba, and the story I told from her perspective. Her “sidekicks” are her brother Ali and best friend Poppy. They all are very different, Zaiba is a born leader, who decides where the whole crew goes, Ali is a little nerd, he is very good when it comes to facts and information, and Poppy knows everything about celebrities, nice clothing and makeup. I think they make a really good team. I really liked that these series have a South Asian protagonist. There is still a lack of diverse characters in children’s literature, and I am thrilled to see, that South Asian children can relate to such a great character like Zaiba.

The narrative of this book was quite intriguing. I really enjoyed the investigation in this book. I really could not figure out who was the culprit, and the discovery was very surprising to me. 🙂 I really enjoyed how South Asian traditions and family was described, also, I really liked the fact that Zaiba’s parents have an interracial marriage. This thing is very common nowadays.

The writing style is very creative, and the language used is pretty easy to read. I really liked the illustrations, they make the whole reading experience more entertaining. The chapters have medium length, and to be fair, I would like them a little shorter. There is some extra material for the children at the back of the book, and I think it is very thoughtful and great for all the little agents to use for their future adventures.

So, to conclude, I really liked this mystery story, filled with diverse and entertaining characters, as well as very well written investigation during mehndi celebration in an old hotel. If your young one is into the mystery, I strongly recommend this series, especially if you are Indian, Pakistani, Bengali etc.
  
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Merissa (13006 KP) rated Viking Ink (Tewsbury Daddies #1) in Books

Apr 7, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)  
Viking Ink (Tewsbury Daddies #1)
Viking Ink (Tewsbury Daddies #1)
Myf Wren | 2023 | Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
VIKING INK is the first book in the Tewsbury Daddies series and is also this author's debut novel, which I find incredibly hard to believe! I loved this story and can't wait to dive back in!

Rhys and Simon fall into a relationship quickly - more quickly than Simon wanted but he is unable to resist Rhys' puppy-dog eyes. There is plenty of talk about their kink and how they want it to progress. Ree does regress quite a way, so if you like your Littles to be more Middles, then this is not the book for you. It also covers some difficult subjects so be aware of that. I thought it was all delicately handled and extremely well-written. The two sides of Rhys did come together so brilliantly, it was easy to see how Simon was bowled over.

Apart from the obvious angst, the relationship itself is low-angst, very sweet and tender, with some steamy moments that worked perfectly. I was left with questions about Liam but nothing was really necessary. I was just being greedy! I am hoping to see more of Rhys and Simon as the series progresses, especially so I can find out how the investigation is coming along. They really need to pay for their crimes!!

Obviously, Mitch and Cal deserve their story, but I also want Doc's as well as Officer Grumpy's. I am really looking forward to seeing what this author comes up with next. HIGHLY recommended by me.

** 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!
April 7, 2023