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Dana (24 KP) rated Flame in the Mist in Books

Sep 8, 2017  
Flame in the Mist
Flame in the Mist
Renee Ahdieh | 2017 | Fiction & Poetry
9
7.3 (8 Ratings)
Book Rating
It got off to a great start with a gripping opening. The last half of the book also gripped me and didn't let go until I was done. The characters, the setting, the details; all fantastic. (0 more)
After that opening, it slowed and I had to force myself to continue reading. The pace just felt.... off. And you're left with more and more questions. (0 more)
Enjoyed from beginning to end
Overall, I freaking loved this novel. It's set in feudal Japan and follows a young woman as she is being married off the the emperor's second son. Mariko is a badass, There's no other way to put it. She will take no shit from others which gets her into a lot of trouble. She's also flawed in that aspect too; she's so blinded by her stubbornness to see the actual world around her sometimes. But she's not the only character who gets depth. Her brother, who we see in almost alternating viewpoints in the story, is a character filled with flaws and pride. But that's not all. Several characters get fleshed out back stories (some more in depth than others) and seeing them all grow was a delight to read.

Let's move on to the rich details of the setting. Feudal Japan can be tricky and Renee Ahdieh did it so much justice. It's described so well, I could easily put myself into Mariko's shoes and lose myself in the story. It's so nice to have that level of detail paid attention to in novels set in a different time and place.


And that romance.... oh boy, it was steamy. I must admit my weakness for slow burn romances (especially ones that are hate-to-love) and this did not disappoint. It was a bit awkward; at first I wasn't sure who she was going to get together with, but when it hit it's stride, I was in love. I really don't want to give much away, but it was fantastic to read and fall in love with them.


I am eagerly awaiting the next in the series!
  
WC
What Curiosity Kills (The Turning, #1)
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
The Turning: What Curiosity Kills by Helen Ellis
Genre: YA, paranormal, romance

Rating: 4

Mary Richards always knew she didn't fit in exactly with everyone else, but she always attributed that to the fact that she and her sister were adopted. But when her long time crush suddenly starts showing interest in her, she randomly starts sleeping and purring in class, and she starts to turn into a cat, she knows things are never going to be the same.

I was instantly pulled into The Turning. The story starts and progresses quickly, and I read the whole thing in one day, almost fully in one sitting. It's the kind of book that you don't realize you've gotten to the next page, or the next chapter, and before you know it, you're done… but the adventure was so engaging, you forgot who you were for a while, because you were living solely in the character's shoes.

The writing was casual, but good. I rarely felt out of place or confused by what had just occurred. One of the only things that really bothered me about this book was the fact that Nick and Mary's relationship was very fast, and seemingly out of nowhere but lust. The ending, also, didn't quite have enough closure on the relationship aspect, nor on the actual story. It directly after the final exciting scene, with no smooth curve down. My heart was still racing when I got to the last page, and I felt like it should have lasted a little longer. Lastly, I wasn't sure if this book was for pre-teens, ages 12-14, or older. It would probably appeal to both age groups.

My favorite part was watching the characters show themselves for who they were. Yoon being more than what meets the eye, Octavia confessing her secrets and being willing, for love, to face her fears, and all the others, too. They were all very unique. I loved the characters and their interaction and dialogue.

Overall, I enjoyed The Turning, and look forward to the rest of the series.

Content: Some language, no sex

Recommendation: Ages 14-18, or if offended by language 16+
  
Queens of Geek
Queens of Geek
Jen Wilde | 2017 | Young Adult (YA)
9
8.6 (5 Ratings)
Book Rating
THIS BOOK WAS GREAT. It was a fun, quick read, but it involved three BFFs, one of which is autistic with social anxiety, and her friends know this and are incredibly supportive. The second girl is openly bisexual. The third friend, the boy, is Hispanic. The three of them take an epic trip to a big Comicon in LA; the bisexual girl (Charlie) co-starred in a zombie movie, and is a popular Youtuber, so when she's invited to the Con she drags her two BFFs with her. Once there, she meets an idol of hers, another Youtuber, and discovers that her idol has a crush on her! So while dealing with her douchebag ex (her co-star from the movie), the other Youtuber asks Charlie out, and the two girls start a romance.

Meanwhile, the autistic girl (Taylor) and the Hispanic boy (Jamie) have loved each other for ages but been too afraid to admit how they feel. Largely left on their own, because Charlie's manager couldn't get them VIP passes, they explore the Con, geeking out over things and meeting another autistic woman, a comic book artist who gives Taylor some amazing advice about being afraid but doing things anyway.

I really really loved this book. I loved seeing autistic characters treated by their peers as just regular people with quirks, like everyone has. Taylor's friends support her when her brain freaks out, and make allowances for her needs, but don't treat her like she's disabled or fragile. I loved seeing how tight the bonds of friendship were between the three teens, and how excited for each other they were, even when good things happening meant less time to spend with each other.

This was just a really lovely, feel-good book with lots of minority representation, by an autistic author who knows what she's talking about. This is one more book off my Autism Reading List, and my pick for a book about friendship from the Litsy Booked 2018 Challenge.

You can find all my reviews, and the full Autism Reading List, at http://goddessinthestacks.wordpress.com
  
SA
Summers at Castle Auburn
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
With all of the series that I constantly fight to keep up with, this was a nice change with an all-in-one plot. The story is told entirely from Coriel Halsing's point of view, so the reader only gets to know things when she learns of them. Sometimes first person P.O.V. is limiting and somewhat claustrophobic, but in this case it simplified the story line and helped me to better get inside the mind of Coriel.
I grew to love Coriel as her story progressed and she matured into a strong, independent young woman. I love that she is not just a pretty face, but possesses both intelligence and wit. In many ways, this book is her coming-of-age story with a fantasy background that could have easily been traded for some other setting without compromising the character of Coriel Halsing.
I also love that Coriel is not the center of royal attention - like her sister, Elisandra - and the "handsome prince" is neither meant for her nor remotely appealing to me, the reader. It was quite entertaining for me to be constantly guessing as to whom Coriel would eventually wind up with. When the man was finally revealed, I was very happy with the results, though I would have enjoyed a bit more wooing on his part.
All of the different characters are well-developed and unique, from the narcissistic handsome prince Bryan, to the always-composed Elisandra, to the many aliora that populate the book. The aliora are quite fascinating, comparable to fairies or elves in description, but still unique to Sharon Shinn's design. In many ways, the aliora act as catalysts for political intrigue within Castle Auburn, as well as Coriel's personal development and maturation.
As an adult fairy-tale, this book can easily appeal to both teens and adults, as the romance is tastefully done and the risque topics, such as slavery, suicide, and illigitimacy, are handled with care and respect. Personally, I loved this book as much as I have loved everything else I have read from Sharon Shinn.
  
Dance with the Devil (Dark-Hunter #3)
Dance with the Devil (Dark-Hunter #3)
Sherrilyn Kenyon | 2003 | Fiction & Poetry
10
8.8 (12 Ratings)
Book Rating
I really don't know what to say about this book. I loved Zarek, Astrid was wonderful (I love that name!), the story was perfect. The End.

Okay, so maybe I have a bit more to say...
I believe Sherrilyn Kenyon's writing has gotten better as the series has progressed. [b:Fantasy Lover|84136|Fantasy Lover (Dark-Hunter, #0.5 Prequel)|Sherrilyn Kenyon|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1255575870s/84136.jpg|2384] was great but a bit choppy, [b:Night Pleasures|84150|Night Pleasures (Dark-Hunter, #1)|Sherrilyn Kenyon|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1279586240s/84150.jpg|4112814] was nice but the weakest so far and still somewhat choppy (not to mention it's the only one I've given away), [b:Night Embrace (Dark-Hunter, #2)|84140|Night Embrace (Dark-Hunter, #2) (Were-Hunter, #1)|Sherrilyn Kenyon|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1255923065s/84140.jpg|81269] was nice and enjoyable but needed the romance developed more in the first half, but <u><b>Dance with the Devil</b></u> was wonderful all the way through.

This one felt different to me from the two previous Dark-Hunter novels; it rather had the same feeling as <u><b>Fantasy Lover</b></u>. This book was more isolated from the rest of the series because it was set in Alaska and there weren't as many characters or as much action (in the first half that is). Zarek was the perfect tortured hero and Sherrilyn Kenyon captured that...well, perfectly. I felt for all he suffered because he was more than a character in a book to me. Astrid was terrific as the nymph who is believable at helping him heal and love. Ash was, of course, wonderful, and the welcome addition of Simi added some much needed humor to a tense plot. I can't say I enjoyed Artie the Bitch; I really can't wait until she gets hers. I know Ash is getting his own book (or books, rather), and I sincerely hope he gets his freedom from her (and naturally she suffers horribly). He deserves so much better, and though he sees himself in Zarek, he also reminds me of Julian from <u><b>Fantasy Lover</b></u> with his storyline. This is my perfect book and it's staying on my keeper shelf for a very long time.
  
AJ
Argosy Junction
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
I want nothing to do with Jesus or God.” After over twenty years of abuses from the cult-like church she grew up in, Lane Argosy has had it with God and His people. Though the Brethren try to make Lane and her family’s lives unbearable, freedom from their warped brand of Christianity is sweet. She’ll never go back… never. He just wanted to visit the country he’d explored through books. So, when Matt Rushby arrives in Argosy Junction, Montana, he expects idyllic meadows and craggy rocks towering above, old-fashioned friendliness and at least one or two cowboys. Instead, he finds familiar hatred and factions very much like the ones back home in Rockland’s inner-city gangs. The Argosy family is disillusioned, broken, and floundering. Matt knows the answer is Jesus—just Him and not the trappings of a faith He never designed. But how can Matt help them turn their hearts back to the Lord when he suspects Lane has stolen his?
My Thoughts: Lane Argosy isn't like every other girl you would meet,; and that's just what Matt Rushby found out when he stuck in a field of "ferocious" sheep. This was an interesting book to read. Not only was it a romance novel, set in Montana, but it's also a story about how some churches can become toxic to its members. It deals with how pride can come into our lives and not only hurt us but other people as well. It's a good reminder to always go to the Bible when in doubt about teachings in the church.



It's also a reminder that God is always there waiting for us no matter how far we stray from Him, that He is a forgiving father. It's also about forgiving others. Prayer is a great tool, and we should always turn to God in prayer over everything in our lives, big or small.



The characters are enjoyable and entertaining in this novel, the author really brings them to life for the reader and the added humor is something I enjoyed. This is a novel that all ages can and will enjoy!
  
Sweep: Volume 1 (Sweep, #1-3)
Sweep: Volume 1 (Sweep, #1-3)
Cate Tiernan | 2010 | Paranormal, Romance, Young Adult (YA)
10
8.7 (3 Ratings)
Book Rating
Enthralling (5 more)
Great Character development
Easy to relate to (more so for young adults).
Very consistent, you don't see crazy out of character, makes no sense, kind of actions.
Very Emotional, you will be all over the place and love every minute.
Clean, though it has a passionate romance, this is not a steamy book, perfect for YA and people simply not interested in those kinds of things.
There is a side to 'very emotional' that can be a little unsettling for some. I loved it though! (1 more)
Not Steamy - For those who would want it.
Whats not to love?!
*No Spoilers*

I loved this book, though I read the series when I was young, having the 15 novels constrained to a few bigger books instead of a bunch of tiny ones is a huge plus for me!

Years and years after my first read, this book still pulled me in and kept me there. Cate Tiernan really grabbed the bull by the horns by offering us a MC Heroine who is not perfect or a knock out. At 16 she is down to earth, she has her flaws and insecurities which really is what makes her such and intresting character to come and relate to. And the best friend who she can't help but relate herself to. Cate brings the world of teenage angst and adds in magick and danger for a thrilling mix that will pull you right in.

This book takes over the span of roughly a year. With plenty of twists and turns, ups and downs and all arounds. Morgan and Cal have a very interesting journey, along with a group of...we will call them friends. Its such a diverse group of personalities.

Its definitley a book I would recommend to any YA. My little sister has just read it and is also in love! But if you are not YA don't turn it away so quickly, it's a book to be read! I never got to finish the series before and am so excited to follow more of Morgan's story!
  
Good Riddance
Good Riddance
6
6.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Daphne has just inherited her mother's yearbook from the class of 1968 at Pickering High School in New Hampshire. That year her mother was not only the English teacher, but also the yearbook advisor. Mrs. Maritch has gone to every reunion and each year she has added notations to the yearbook to all of the students. Daphne has no need or room for the yearbook in her small New York City apartment, so she puts it in the recycling. A neighbor who is also a budding documentarian finds the yearbook, and is determined to make a movie with her findings. When Daphne finds out a dark secret at the 50th reunion they attend, she will stop at nothing to make sure the yearbook is not made public. With family secrets around each corner, Daphne will try her best to keep her mother's legacy in tact and her father's heart from being broken.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.

I remember the thrill of getting my yearbook from middle school all through high school and having all of my friends sign it. I don't think that I ever had or even wanted any of my teachers to sign it though. And I've been to one or two of my reunions and I surely didn't go back and makes notes on what everyone is up to now.

This was a quirky story that had quite a few different elements in it. A little bit of romance, some mystery, and an annoying neighbor. Daphne is newly divorced and trying to find her way in New York City. Her apartment is small and there isn't any room for much more than her. She is going to school to be a chocolatier, but that's not really working out. She tries going back to teaching at Montessori school which she did before she was married. But with the contents of the yearbook and rumors about her mother maybe reaching the public Daphne's plate seems to be overflowing. Can she keep her mom's legacy alive and keep herself from going crazy at the same time?
  
MS
Magic Study (Study, #2)
Maria V. Snyder | 2006 | Young Adult (YA)
8
8.3 (7 Ratings)
Book Rating
I greatly enjoyed this book and seeing all these hateful, negative reviews honestly puts a bad taste in my mouth. I can understand if it’s not someone’s cup of tea but some of the things people are complaining about are just nonsensical. I feel that they have never been in the situations these characters have and therefore judge them in ways that are ignorant and unfair.

I didn’t feel like Yelena was a Mary-sue. In fact, she had her butt handed to her on more than one occasion. Most of the skills that Yelana has, she developed herself through hard work and practice. I also feel people misinterpreted her relationship with her brother and her brother’s behavior. It clearly states why she was upset with him, and I agree with her. I also understand why her brother acts the way he does and it is not unrealistic considering the circumstances.

And heaven forbid people have faults. Any time a character has a negative trait or does something wrong, etc. people down them for it. I feel it made the characters more human and realistic. People have faults and mess up sometimes. That’s life!

I would also like to point out that this series is about Yelena. Not Yelena and Valek. It is not about them or their romance. Therefore, it didn’t bother me that Valek was only present for the last fourth of the book. If you go into this book hoping for more than that, then yes you are going to be disappointed. But you should have expected it from the way Poison Study ended and the synopsis.

I will agree, however, that there are a lot of similarities between Magic Study and Poison Study in terms of villains and their actions, but I don’t think the author was lazy about it. It didn’t detract from enjoying Magic Study whatsoever.

I understand there are a lot of bad reviews for the book, but I honestly think that this is one book you need to ignore the reviews and just read for yourself and come to your own conclusions.
  
The Protector
The Protector
Jodi Ellen Malpas | 2016 | Romance
9
5.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
steamy, angst, suspense (0 more)
Jake Sharp just became another book boyfriend
Yeah, I loved this book. I mean, Jodi Ellen Malpas doesn’t really disappoint, so I knew this was going to be a no-brainer. This is the woman who gave a voice to Jesse Ward (long live the Lord) for Pete’s sake. (If you haven’t read the This Man series, drop everything, and go do so.)

This book has all the things I love about romance novels:

sexy alpha male
feisty heroine
angst
steamy sex
There’s also some mystery/suspense as an added bonus.

Jake Sharp is a former soldier who suffers from PTSD after both a personal tragedy and an op gone wrong. Jake now works for a security agency, which is how he meets our heroine, Camille, who is in need of a bodyguard.

Camille Logan is known in the tabloids as a model and party girl, but Cami is not what the press paints her as. She’s an intelligent, level-headed girl who is partnering up with her BFF, Heather, to launch a clothing line. Cami is struggling to get from under her extremely wealthy and overbearing father’s thumb.

Both characters are struggling with the aftermath of personal tragedy. Cami’s backstory is pretty readily explained, but Jake’s backstory is only hinted at initially, and we don’t see the full scope of events until closer to the end of the book, so we’re left guessing as to what has made him who he is. It’s a fun ride, though, and we get to watch Jake transform from this cold, terse man into a big ol’ teddy bear thanks to Cami. I mean, that whole scene in the English bluebells? That shit is fucking romantic!

If you’re not already a JEM fan, I propose you go make yourself one. Other books by JEM:

This Man series
One Night series
The Forbidden (I have not read this one yet, but you can bet your sweet ass that I will.)

FYI: Word on the interwebs is that PassionFlix has optioned The Protector for a film and the This Man series for a tv series.