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Merissa (12911 KP) rated Markov (Tangled Tentacles #4) in Books
Sep 30, 2022
Did my heart break? Oh, just a little!
MARKOV is the fourth book in the Tangled Tentacles series and follows Markov and Cassius through their trials and tribulations to find the happiness due to fated mates.
Oh, man. I knew this one was going to be a doozy! You know, when I started this series, I was immediately taken into their world; seeing and sympathising with these last-on-earth Kraken shifters. Their back story was so sad and I loved it when Alexi found his mate. Since then, I've stayed with them and thoroughly enjoyed each story - some a little more than others, sure - but still loving every moment. It was obvious there was something going on between Cassius and Markov but we had no details as to what or why. We get ALL the details here and they are worth waiting for!
This pair of authors know exactly how to tug on my heartstrings. They always manage it, even when I'm expecting it. I won't go into details (spoilers, don't you know!) but I will say I was gripped by every word, every scene. Todd and Kelvin are the ones who are there for Markov in this book, and I'm really hoping Alexi and Victor will pull their heads from their behinds and realise what they are doing to the family.
The overall story arc moves on but we still don't know the full picture. It is Kelvin's story next, with his FBI guy, and the epilogue is a full-on teaser. I can't wait to read his story.
This is a fantastic addition to a series I am loving. 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, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Oh, man. I knew this one was going to be a doozy! You know, when I started this series, I was immediately taken into their world; seeing and sympathising with these last-on-earth Kraken shifters. Their back story was so sad and I loved it when Alexi found his mate. Since then, I've stayed with them and thoroughly enjoyed each story - some a little more than others, sure - but still loving every moment. It was obvious there was something going on between Cassius and Markov but we had no details as to what or why. We get ALL the details here and they are worth waiting for!
This pair of authors know exactly how to tug on my heartstrings. They always manage it, even when I'm expecting it. I won't go into details (spoilers, don't you know!) but I will say I was gripped by every word, every scene. Todd and Kelvin are the ones who are there for Markov in this book, and I'm really hoping Alexi and Victor will pull their heads from their behinds and realise what they are doing to the family.
The overall story arc moves on but we still don't know the full picture. It is Kelvin's story next, with his FBI guy, and the epilogue is a full-on teaser. I can't wait to read his story.
This is a fantastic addition to a series I am loving. 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, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2346 KP) rated Just Plain Murder in Books
Dec 2, 2018
It was Heavenly to Visit These Characters Again
In the time that shop owner Claire Weatherly has been dating detective Jakob Fisher, she has never met Russ Granger, the man Jakob counts as a mentor and father figure. Of course, it makes sense since Russ has retired and moved to Florida. He is back in Heavenly, Pennsylvania, for a visit, but before Jakob and Russ can reconnect, Russ is murdered. Distraught over the man's death, Jakob throws himself into solving the crime. Can Claire help him come up with any leads?
It's been two and a half years since we've been able to visit this community, and I hadn't realized just how much I missed it until I was reading the first page. I was immediately swept back into the peaceful state I find while reading this series. In keeping with a town next to an Amish community, the pace in this series has always been a bit on the slow side, but I did feel this book's pacing was slower than normal. Still, when the pace does pick up, we get a well-done plot. The real star has always been the characters, and I was thrilled to be able to visit them again. They are as wonderful as ever, and I enjoyed some of the developments happening in their lives.
It's been two and a half years since we've been able to visit this community, and I hadn't realized just how much I missed it until I was reading the first page. I was immediately swept back into the peaceful state I find while reading this series. In keeping with a town next to an Amish community, the pace in this series has always been a bit on the slow side, but I did feel this book's pacing was slower than normal. Still, when the pace does pick up, we get a well-done plot. The real star has always been the characters, and I was thrilled to be able to visit them again. They are as wonderful as ever, and I enjoyed some of the developments happening in their lives.
Phil Leader (619 KP) rated IA: Invincible Assassin (IA #2.5) in Books
Nov 15, 2019
Following on from the events in IA: B.O.S.S. and it's shattering ending, this book sees the world of Naz and the Exclave through the eyes of Harvis Young. A friend of Naz who has his own mysteries, Harvis sees how broken Naz is and resolves to protect him - or protect the world from him.
Naz is bent on revenge and with his superhuman powers could do more harm than good. Harvis must act as Naz's conscience but is also sympathetic to his cause.
Billed as an 'IA Origin' story, this provides a lot of background on Harvis whilst also filling in the gap before IA: Union. This isn't really a stand-alone piece as very little of who Naz is and what he can do is explained and reading of at least the first two books of the IA series first is recommended.
Whereas the other books have been told from Naz's point of view, here we see him through the eyes of his friend as a conflicted and sometimes unpredictable young man, someone who needs to tame his nature.
It is hard to provide any more information without spoiling the plot. But as with the other IA books this is an outstanding and very different 'young adult' read and an essential part of the series.
Naz is bent on revenge and with his superhuman powers could do more harm than good. Harvis must act as Naz's conscience but is also sympathetic to his cause.
Billed as an 'IA Origin' story, this provides a lot of background on Harvis whilst also filling in the gap before IA: Union. This isn't really a stand-alone piece as very little of who Naz is and what he can do is explained and reading of at least the first two books of the IA series first is recommended.
Whereas the other books have been told from Naz's point of view, here we see him through the eyes of his friend as a conflicted and sometimes unpredictable young man, someone who needs to tame his nature.
It is hard to provide any more information without spoiling the plot. But as with the other IA books this is an outstanding and very different 'young adult' read and an essential part of the series.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2346 KP) rated The Lessons We Learn in Books
May 21, 2022 (Updated May 21, 2022)
Betty Must Clear Her Friend
As winter reluctantly gives way to spring in March of 1943, Lee Tillotson’s father goes missing. Betty Ahern is surprised that her friend isn’t more concerned, but Lee keeps pointing out how much better his family’s life is without Mr. Tillotson around since the man had become a drunk. That comes back to haunt Lee when his father’s body turns up in the Buffalo River. The police are looking at Lee as a suspect, and Lee is clearly hiding something, even from Betty. Can Betty figure out what is going on?
Since Lee’s family situation has been a subplot in the first two books in this series, this book is able to jump right into the action. The result is a story that never waned. I was hooked from the first page and never wanted to put the book down. I enjoyed getting to see more of the supporting characters in this book, and the development that came with their expanded page time. Likewise, I enjoyed seeing some of the relationship growth from the previous book stick around. I hope it continues in future books. The writing helps pull us into the story, and the historical details are fantastic, as well. This is the strongest book in the series to date, and I can’t wait to visit Betty again.
Since Lee’s family situation has been a subplot in the first two books in this series, this book is able to jump right into the action. The result is a story that never waned. I was hooked from the first page and never wanted to put the book down. I enjoyed getting to see more of the supporting characters in this book, and the development that came with their expanded page time. Likewise, I enjoyed seeing some of the relationship growth from the previous book stick around. I hope it continues in future books. The writing helps pull us into the story, and the historical details are fantastic, as well. This is the strongest book in the series to date, and I can’t wait to visit Betty again.
Christine A. (965 KP) rated The October Man (Rivers of London #7.5) in Books
Jul 16, 2019
Novella set in Germany. Book 7.5 of the Rivers of London series.
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
The October Man by Ben Aaronovitch is the "#7.5" book in his Rivers of London series. I read the first book, Rivers of London for book club last year and has marked the 2nd book, Moon over Soho, to be read on Goodreads. When the opportunity arose to read this novella, I jumped at the chance. To give a fair review, I read books 2 - 7, not including the novellas, before reading this.
Peter Grant is mentioned in the novella but his German equivalent, Tobias Winter, leads this investigation set in Trier, Germany's oldest city.
While Aaronovitch's writing style and humor show through, I missed the characters I have been fortunate enough to meet in the books set in London. The backdrop of London has become as important as any of the characters.
Setting the novella in Germany was interesting because it allowed us to see the difference between how the German's investigate and the Folly. It brought the magical world into a different point of view as when FBI agent Kimberley Reynolds was around. I would have enjoyed this more if Peter Grant had helped with Tobias Winter's investigation.
I already marked book 8, False Value, to be read.
This 200-word review was published on Philomathinphila.com on 7/15/19.
The October Man by Ben Aaronovitch is the "#7.5" book in his Rivers of London series. I read the first book, Rivers of London for book club last year and has marked the 2nd book, Moon over Soho, to be read on Goodreads. When the opportunity arose to read this novella, I jumped at the chance. To give a fair review, I read books 2 - 7, not including the novellas, before reading this.
Peter Grant is mentioned in the novella but his German equivalent, Tobias Winter, leads this investigation set in Trier, Germany's oldest city.
While Aaronovitch's writing style and humor show through, I missed the characters I have been fortunate enough to meet in the books set in London. The backdrop of London has become as important as any of the characters.
Setting the novella in Germany was interesting because it allowed us to see the difference between how the German's investigate and the Folly. It brought the magical world into a different point of view as when FBI agent Kimberley Reynolds was around. I would have enjoyed this more if Peter Grant had helped with Tobias Winter's investigation.
I already marked book 8, False Value, to be read.
This 200-word review was published on Philomathinphila.com on 7/15/19.
Merissa (12911 KP) rated Courting the Dragon Lord (A Royal Arrangement #0) in Books
Mar 27, 2025
COURTING THE DRAGON LORD is the introductory story to the Royal Arrangement series. We learn that the nations have been at war for decades and now they have agreed to a peace treaty, solidified by marriages between the nations. This one is with Prince Ash of Botanial and Lord Barrett of Draconia.
Ash has always played second fiddle to his older brother and when he finds out there is a contest for Florian's hand, that just confirms it, especially when he thinks the man he is interested in has competed to win Florian's hand. But Barrett has met Ash already and is interested in him, not Florian. With a twist of insecurity though, Barrett thinks Ash wants Luther.
This was a quick and easy read, full of brilliant descriptions. Both MCs are cinnamon rolls who are insecure but it works for them. They both have a partner who loves and adores them, and who doesn't want that! The pacing is smooth and the world-building is enough for this story so you're not completely lost.
A great start to the series and definitely recommended by me. I can't wait to read more in this story and, although I don't wish the kingship on Ash, I really hope Florian gets his comeuppance! He really was a repugnant character in every way!
** 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!
Mar 27, 2025
Ash has always played second fiddle to his older brother and when he finds out there is a contest for Florian's hand, that just confirms it, especially when he thinks the man he is interested in has competed to win Florian's hand. But Barrett has met Ash already and is interested in him, not Florian. With a twist of insecurity though, Barrett thinks Ash wants Luther.
This was a quick and easy read, full of brilliant descriptions. Both MCs are cinnamon rolls who are insecure but it works for them. They both have a partner who loves and adores them, and who doesn't want that! The pacing is smooth and the world-building is enough for this story so you're not completely lost.
A great start to the series and definitely recommended by me. I can't wait to read more in this story and, although I don't wish the kingship on Ash, I really hope Florian gets his comeuppance! He really was a repugnant character in every way!
** 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!
Mar 27, 2025
Merissa (12911 KP) rated Scapulimancist (Seven Forbidden Arts #7) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
Scapulimancist is the seventh book in the Seven Forbidden Arts series, and is amazing in its own right. Sahara (usually known as Sara) has the ability to control/manipulate animals. She doesn't use this ability for fun, knowing the consequences of being found, but rather for her own safety and to help her do her job. Wayne is a convicted murderer who has no memory of actually committing the crime. He has served his time, and now scrapes a living from the man who bought out his farm and land, who Wayne is also convinced is crooked but has no proof as yet.
Surprisingly enough, the majority of the book passes by without a mention of the others, and I thoroughly enjoyed this. Sara and Wayne, with their story and the supporting cast that they have, needed no "hold ups". Sara is sassy and feisty, Wayne refuses to allow her in (yeah right, like THAT'S going to happen!) and so their story takes off. The scenery is painted vividly, and the stately grace of the encounters with the elephants is described so perfectly, it caught my breath.
As with all of Charmaine Pauls' books, this is extremely well written, with no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt the reading flow. It is an excellent addition to the series, whilst standing capably on its own feet. I would recommend reading the whole series though, simply because you would be missing out on some fantastic stories if you didn't. Highly 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!
Surprisingly enough, the majority of the book passes by without a mention of the others, and I thoroughly enjoyed this. Sara and Wayne, with their story and the supporting cast that they have, needed no "hold ups". Sara is sassy and feisty, Wayne refuses to allow her in (yeah right, like THAT'S going to happen!) and so their story takes off. The scenery is painted vividly, and the stately grace of the encounters with the elephants is described so perfectly, it caught my breath.
As with all of Charmaine Pauls' books, this is extremely well written, with no editing or grammatical errors to disrupt the reading flow. It is an excellent addition to the series, whilst standing capably on its own feet. I would recommend reading the whole series though, simply because you would be missing out on some fantastic stories if you didn't. Highly 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!
I wanted to read this book for the first story by Mercedes Lackey, since I am a fan of the Five Hundred Kingdom series. This story featured Leopold and Brunnhilde in a setting straight out of Greek mythology. In short, I loved it. It weaves Leopold's quest for immortality in with the tale of Persephone and her union with Hades. The perspective is different from the usual story of a victimized Persephone, and turns her into a strong, young woman who will stop at nothing to be with the man she loves. To make Greek mythology fit in with the rest of the series, Lackey explains that the Gods and Goddesses of Mount Olympus are half-Fae who have forgotten their origins thanks to the power of The Tradition.
I am not familiar with the second author, Michelle Sagara. This short story is a prequel to her Chronicles of Elantra series and introduces the reader to the character of Kaylin Neya. I was a little lost when I began this story because of the variety of characters that I was introduced to at the very beginning. I actually was not even sure who the story was about at first. The story seemed a bit bogged down with details and descriptions, and Kaylin seemed to get lost in the mayhem of Sagara's attempt to introduce the reader to the world of Elantra in such a short tale. I stuck with it, though, and by the end of the story I was intrigued enough to want to continue on with the series in Cast in Shadow (The Chronicles of Elantra, Book 1).
The third story, written by Caleron Haley, is meant to be a prequel to Mob Rules (Luna Books). I am not familiar with this author either, and when I began this story I realized immediately that this story was heavily-flavored with gangster-style speak and vocabulary, even more so than the urban fantasy elements. I really tried to adjust to the language used in the story, but the lack of explanation to accompany such terms as "juice" and "outfit", as well as the overabundance of foul-mouthed language and typical gangster lingo like "capping" someone mad me lose interest in the actual plot of the short story halfway through. I am sure there are other readers that enjoy this style of story-telling, but I am not one of them.
I am not familiar with the second author, Michelle Sagara. This short story is a prequel to her Chronicles of Elantra series and introduces the reader to the character of Kaylin Neya. I was a little lost when I began this story because of the variety of characters that I was introduced to at the very beginning. I actually was not even sure who the story was about at first. The story seemed a bit bogged down with details and descriptions, and Kaylin seemed to get lost in the mayhem of Sagara's attempt to introduce the reader to the world of Elantra in such a short tale. I stuck with it, though, and by the end of the story I was intrigued enough to want to continue on with the series in Cast in Shadow (The Chronicles of Elantra, Book 1).
The third story, written by Caleron Haley, is meant to be a prequel to Mob Rules (Luna Books). I am not familiar with this author either, and when I began this story I realized immediately that this story was heavily-flavored with gangster-style speak and vocabulary, even more so than the urban fantasy elements. I really tried to adjust to the language used in the story, but the lack of explanation to accompany such terms as "juice" and "outfit", as well as the overabundance of foul-mouthed language and typical gangster lingo like "capping" someone mad me lose interest in the actual plot of the short story halfway through. I am sure there are other readers that enjoy this style of story-telling, but I am not one of them.
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