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Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, #1)
Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse, #1)
Charlaine Harris | 2001 | Fiction & Poetry
8
8.1 (36 Ratings)
Book Rating
I first read this in 2006 and never got to another Sookie book. Since I want to see <i>True Blood</i> whenever it comes out on DVD, and I don't quite remember too much of the book to get to the rest of the series, I decided to re-read it.

I really don't have anything additional to say to my first review, other than I'm not as picky about the romance this time around. So here's my original review from June 24, 2006:

I've been in a paranormal mood lately so figured I'd pick this one up and see what's different here. While there's nothing original in the vampire front, the story was nonetheless told in a new and fresh way. Although the start seemed slow, I quickly immersed myself into the pace of the book and thought it was quite fitting to it being a southern book. I enjoyed reading about the courtship between a vampire and human, although a slightly different human. It was kind of sweet and though I thought they professed their love to each other too soon, it was still quite lovely in a strange way. The mystery was nice in that I didn't necessarily know who the culprit was. I did have a niggling of who it was a few times but wasn't quite sure. The book also had some interesting characters and I am curious to what direction(s) the author decides to go next.
  
The Seekers (Amish Cooking Class, #1)
The Seekers (Amish Cooking Class, #1)
Wanda E. Brunstetter | 2017 | Fiction & Poetry
10
10.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
I absolutely love Wanda Brunstetter and her work. I was so excited to get the chance to read and review this book, her first in the Amish Cooking Class series. Setting down to read it, I knew I would be in for fun, but just how much, I had no idea! This book is filled with laughter, romance, faith, hope, inspiration and lots of gut cooking!

Ms. Brunstetter once again creates a novel filled with heart warming characters, plot lines that keep you hooked and messages woven that will leave you thinking and reflecting long after the book is closed. All the characters within this novel face a different challenge in their lives, but through faith and coming together to cook, Ms. Brunstetter sends us on a ride that leaves us smiling at these characters that have come to try and learn to cook.

This is beyond a 5 star book. It's the first of the series, and I'm already wishing I had book 2, The Blessing. If you are looking for a fast paced, inspirational book about the simple life, look no further than this fabulous book. As a bonus, you'll get some great recipes from the teacher in the book! Yum! Bravo, once again, Ms. Brunstetter. Bravo.<a href="http://cafinatedread.com/2017/03/13/barbour-review-crew-review-the-seekers-by-wanda-brunstetter/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
  
The Christmas Prayer
The Christmas Prayer
Wanda E. Brunstetter | 2014 | Fiction & Poetry, Romance
10
8.5 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
It's Fall. It's time for all things Fall-y, Halloween-y and best of all? Christmas-y! So, when I saw that Ms. Brunstetter was releasing The Christmas Prayer, I jumped on the chance! I love a good novella that's filled with snow, history and best of all? Wanda Brunstetter's addictive characters. This book had it all and so much more, for such a small, quick read.

Sitting down to read this, we are taken to history, during the 1850's, and introduced to some amazing, fun loving characters. Each character has something different for the story, each of their journeys for a different reason, but with God, prayer and unforgettable messages, these characters make being snowed in, a fun treat!

Ms. Brunstetter is the type of author who can write 5 star books across the genre grid. From Amish fiction to historical romance, she can bring the reader to the heart of the story instantly, and keep them their til the very last page is turned. Once you're finished, you want more. She's that good. Ms. Brunstetter is my top author when it comes to historical and Amish romances. If you are looking for a 5 star, winter-y read to set the mood for Christmas this year, look no further than this amazing, soul moving novella! Well done, Ms. Brunstetter! Well done!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
  
Eyes on You
Eyes on You
Kate White | 2014
8
8.7 (3 Ratings)
Book Rating
Robin has just started a new job and is about to release her first book. RIght now, is seems as if life couldn't get any better for her. When a series of strange events begins to happen, Robin has to figure out exactly who is trying to sabotage her career. There are a few people it could be and right now Robin isn't sure who she can trust.

This book held my attention from start to finish. It was hard to put down. The book had a little bit of everything in it. A little thriller, a little romance, some conspiracy and murder. All throughout the book, you think you know who is going to be the one doing all of the dirty work. There seems to be so many suspects. Is it the handsome co-host? The ambitious intern who is desperately trying her best? The veteran at the station who will stop at nothing to stay on top and relevant? The associate producer whose story ideas always seem to fall a little short.

I could not put this book down. I had to know what was going to happen. I stayed on the edge of my seat. There was even one part where I shouted, "Holy Shit!" out loud. Luckily, I wasn't any place public when that happened.

This was a great book. One of the best that I have read this year. I look forward to reading more from this author.
  
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ArecRain (8 KP) rated The Way You Bite in Books

Jan 18, 2018  
TW
The Way You Bite
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
ARC received in exchange for a complimentary review.

I have really been winning with the classic paranormals lately. Don’t get me wrong, I love reading authors’ new creations and mythologies, but sometimes, the classics are just tops. A good ole fashion feud between vampires and werewolves? Yes please! Not only that but it was done well.

It was difficult not to love the hero. At first, you think he is going to be just another Alpha. Then you are treated to an open loving man who is willing to modify his actions and thoughts rather than remain unyielding. The heroine was a little more complicated. I agreed with her sense of independence and thoughts about violence. However, you can be independent and still have a partner. At times, Vee is stubborn and set in her ways to the point of being obnoxious. I am all for strong independent women, but I am tired of them associating it with being alone.

Overall, it was a great paranormal novel. An interesting world inhabited by good characters and an action-packed plot to keep you reading until the end. The chemistry didn’t seem forced, and I couldn’t have asked for a more satisfactory ending. I believe this is a standalone for the author, but you can bet I am going to check out some of her other work.

If you are looking for a good paranormal romance for a rainy day, this one’s for you!
  
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Gail (4 KP) rated One Hell of a Ride in Books

Jun 4, 2018  
OH
One Hell of a Ride
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
One Hell of A Ride by Ju Epraime

Four stars

I love historical romance stories. This one was different but good. Cas has been living as a young lad all her life. Her grandfather thought it would be a good idea sense she loved working on the ranch. It was funny how the author had Joe falling when he thought Cas was a lad. It was a rough time to be a woman and I can see why Cassie preferred to be thought of as a lad. The freedom to just be you and not worry that you won’t be accepted. As a woman she wouldn’t have been able to run her grandfather’s ranches or live alone. Joe was super sweet and handsome. He didn’t want to take advantage of Cassie so he kept away doing what he could to keep the ranch going. They don’t have many men like Joe walking around anymore. If they’re some can they be pointed in my direction lol. The author could've put more detail in the landscape but the book was well written. The characters were a little dry but I somewhat expected that with the time the story was written in. Would’ve like more details about Joe and where he came from and what he really did before visiting the ranch. There were parts that could’ve been left out. Overall the story was a good one.
  
SO
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Well... This book took me quite a long time to finish. Aka, I didn't have as much of a commute for the past 2 weeks.

This book is beautiful. Juliet Marillier is truly a master at weaving a story. This book was recommended to me by my sister and I cannot believe that it took me this long to finally read it. A couple years ago, I did a reading challenge where I asked my family and close friends what book they would want me to read. Naturally, my sister chose the first in this series with the knowledge that I would relate better to the second. I'm glad that I took the time to listen to the audiobook of this novel. The narrator was wonderful and truly made the series come alive. For the past two days, I have actually gone out of my way to listen to the book when normally I would just listen to it on my drive into work.

The characters in this book are spectacular. I loved how Juliet Marillier captured the anguish, joy, and all the emotions in between. I fell in love with the relationships that were written in this series. The characters were realistic and had great depth to them.

If you're looking for a beautiful fantasy with some romance, this is the book for you. Seriously, you need to read this book.
  
SI
Switch It Up
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
This is my very first Sara Brookes novel and I have to say, I'm pleasantly surprised by it. I was browsing NetGalley when this book stood out to me. I'm glad that I was accepted to read this book.

I will admit, mfm is one of my favorite genres on the more taboo side of romance. Unfortunately, not many authors know how to write the book where it is believable and sexy. Sara Brooks, seemed to find that medium where everything was good and a little more believable.

I loved the fact that this book took place over a long period of time. There was instant connection but not insta love which i really appreciated. The characters were fun to read though I would have liked a little more growth when it came to the main characters. For some reason though I know there was growth, I just feel like there should have been more.

I will admit that this book was a change up because it features two bisexual men and one woman. I'm not one for the male on male scenes so those were interesting to read even though they're not my cup of tea.

All in all, I enjoyed it. I liked the concept. Loved the fact that two of the characters were geeks and I will definitely add Sara Brookes to my "author to follow" list.

*If you didn't already catch it, I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
  
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Louise (64 KP) rated Uprooted in Books

Jul 2, 2018  
Uprooted
Uprooted
Naomi Novik | 2016 | Fiction & Poetry
6
8.4 (10 Ratings)
Book Rating
I was very apprehensive going in to this book as I have heard hit and miss reviews. There were parts of this book that I really enjoyed and some that let it down. I think all fantasy books should come with a map! I don’t care if this book was set in a valley – I would still like a map to help me visualise the land and follow the characters on journeys. It took me a little while to get used to the writing style in this book.It was written in such a way that you had to take your time and not miss a word – if you have read Laini Taylor’s writing then you will probably like the style. The magic system was not very well explained and just seemed to happen conveniently. The Dragon was supposed to be this brooding handsome wizard that looks like he is in his 20’s but actually like a 150 years old and just annoying. The romance was blah, there was no tension and I didn’t feel any connection between the characters. There is a great friendship in this book between Agnieszka and Kasia which was one of the strongest parts. I did like the woods that were corrupted and how clever it was. This could have been an amazing book it was just underdeveloped. It would have been better as a series rather than a standalone.
  
Fight or Flight
Fight or Flight
Samantha Young | 2018 | Erotica, Fiction & Poetry, Romance
10
9.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
Characters (2 more)
Witty
Romance
Witty Banter and a Scorching Hot Scott
Whenever I read a Samantha Young book I am genuinely impressed. I was lucky enough to receive an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and I have to say that I LOVED it! This is a book that I will have to read over and over. I loved it so much that I'm tempted to sit down and read it again.

Samantha Young is able to create characters that just inspire you. The characters feel real, they feel raw, and when they cry it makes me want to cry. I love how in depth the characters in Fight or Flight are. They seemed so real to me. One thing that I absolutely loved about this book is the banter between the characters. The bantering just set this book apart. It's witty, and touching at moments.

The plot line was really interesting and something that I haven't read before. I loved how touching it was and I even loved how frustrating the plot line became. I wanted to scream at the characters at points which shows me just how invested I was in the characters.

Ultimately, this book captures the magic that Samantha Young had with "On Dublin Street" and added some amazing bantering. This is one of my favorites by her. If I could give it more stars, I would.

I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.