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The Feathered Nest (The Thornton Mysteries #4)
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Murder comes to Norfolk Island, but is the killer after Alexandra Archer’s Tahitian black pearl or...
Historical Fiction Historical Mystery Suspense Romance
Merissa (13878 KP) rated Starfolk Falling (The Starfolk Trilogy #2) by Martha Dunlop in Books
Jul 21, 2022 (Updated Jul 26, 2023)
STARFOLK FALLING is the second book in The Starfolk Trilogy and we continue where book one left off. Amelia is still shouting loudly about Soul Snatchers, whilst Jonan, Beth, and the others try to contain the madness.
We learn more about the history and pasts of each of our characters, and figure out just how they worked together - or were supposed to! We are also introduced to new characters who have big roles to play, even if one of them isn't that old.
Amelia is fraying slightly at the edges, which is fair enough considering the torment she is putting others through. I still love Bill and love how he is making her life as miserable as possible! Roland goes through a lot in this book. I'm keeping my fingers crossed he works it out AND Beth is able to help Layla!
Just as much intrigue and suspense in this book but, for me, it flowed a little better. I was able to get lost in the story much quicker than in book one. Maybe it's because I already had the background of the characters. I don't know. All I know is I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait for the final! 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!
Jul 17, 2022
We learn more about the history and pasts of each of our characters, and figure out just how they worked together - or were supposed to! We are also introduced to new characters who have big roles to play, even if one of them isn't that old.
Amelia is fraying slightly at the edges, which is fair enough considering the torment she is putting others through. I still love Bill and love how he is making her life as miserable as possible! Roland goes through a lot in this book. I'm keeping my fingers crossed he works it out AND Beth is able to help Layla!
Just as much intrigue and suspense in this book but, for me, it flowed a little better. I was able to get lost in the story much quicker than in book one. Maybe it's because I already had the background of the characters. I don't know. All I know is I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait for the final! 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!
Jul 17, 2022
Merissa (13878 KP) rated Bishop to Knight One (Diviner's Game #1) in Books
Feb 12, 2021 (Updated Aug 3, 2023)
BISHOP TO KNIGHT ONE is the first book in the Diviner's Game trilogy. We enter the world of myth and magic, with Naiads, Nymphs, Obsidites, Telepaths, you name it.
Deejay takes in the unwanted sons of his sisters but ends up taking in step-sons too. One of these is Matt, supposedly human. Both Deejay and Matt fight their attraction as inappropriate in both the human and non-human worlds. Things come to light that show a ten-year difference will mean absolutely nothing as the years go by.
I loved their slow-burn, hot as hell, romance. This book is simply outstanding and had me gripped from the very beginning. I have my own list of characters that I like and dislike but will admit to being shocked with a twist at the end of this book. I really hope it is explained further in subsequent books as I really don't want to dislike this character, but his actions make me question!!!
I found the pacing to be perfect for the story, with plenty of action and romance to take me from page to page. There is intrigue, betrayal (maybe), curses, and fights. It's all here and I loved every single word.
I highly recommend this book and can't wait to continue the series. Bring it on!
* 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!
Feb 12, 2021
Deejay takes in the unwanted sons of his sisters but ends up taking in step-sons too. One of these is Matt, supposedly human. Both Deejay and Matt fight their attraction as inappropriate in both the human and non-human worlds. Things come to light that show a ten-year difference will mean absolutely nothing as the years go by.
I loved their slow-burn, hot as hell, romance. This book is simply outstanding and had me gripped from the very beginning. I have my own list of characters that I like and dislike but will admit to being shocked with a twist at the end of this book. I really hope it is explained further in subsequent books as I really don't want to dislike this character, but his actions make me question!!!
I found the pacing to be perfect for the story, with plenty of action and romance to take me from page to page. There is intrigue, betrayal (maybe), curses, and fights. It's all here and I loved every single word.
I highly recommend this book and can't wait to continue the series. Bring it on!
* 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!
Feb 12, 2021
Merissa (13878 KP) rated Journey (The Academy #2) in Books
Jan 5, 2022
JOURNEY is the second book in The Academy series and we continue where book one left off. Jamie is still fighting being a wolf and wants Liam as her safety net. Wren is still protecting her and has made it clear he understands how she is feeling and won't pressure her for anything else.
Of course, this would all be over if Jamie chose Liam for real, so we have the story to go through first. There, you will find parts that may or may not surprise you, that help to fill in the story, as well as leave you with more questions that need answering.
The only downside of this -- for me -- is that is now another possible love triangle in the mix. Although Liam is out of the picture, it appears Alex is taking his place. Now, don't get me wrong, Jamie is a lot better in this book than the first, but I don't understand this "undeniable" attraction she seems to hold for everyone. Personally, I feel it takes something away from her character, to be pulled in every direction.
That being said, there is enough intrigue and mystery to keep most people happy. I am enjoying the changes in the characters as the story progresses and I look forward to continuing with the series.
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!
Of course, this would all be over if Jamie chose Liam for real, so we have the story to go through first. There, you will find parts that may or may not surprise you, that help to fill in the story, as well as leave you with more questions that need answering.
The only downside of this -- for me -- is that is now another possible love triangle in the mix. Although Liam is out of the picture, it appears Alex is taking his place. Now, don't get me wrong, Jamie is a lot better in this book than the first, but I don't understand this "undeniable" attraction she seems to hold for everyone. Personally, I feel it takes something away from her character, to be pulled in every direction.
That being said, there is enough intrigue and mystery to keep most people happy. I am enjoying the changes in the characters as the story progresses and I look forward to continuing with the series.
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!
Merissa (13878 KP) rated Insurgent in Books
May 30, 2023
The adventure continues with Tris and Tobias as they try to recover and regroup. With people in their group that they don't like and don't trust, they face an uphill struggle to move forward and make plans, without being betrayed. They both keep secrets aplenty, even from each other, which I found very frustrating, but also understandable. Tris was told by more than one person to never let on that she was Divergent, and now all and sundry are talking about it and seem to know more than she does!
Tobias and Tris face obstacles and difficulties, not just with the war that seems to have started, but also personally and with their relationship. This is all tied in with what is happening and who shows up, but it makes for powerful reading!
With a closer view on the other factions, it shows you the good and the bad. With visits to Amity, Candor and Erudite, we also meet with more characters of all factions. Some that are friendly, some that aren't.
I won't give out anything else, as I hate spoilers, but I will say that with more twists and intrigue than you can shake a stick at, these books are completely enthralling. I am absolutely loving this series and can't wait for the final book. Highly recommended.
* 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!
Mar 19, 2016
Tobias and Tris face obstacles and difficulties, not just with the war that seems to have started, but also personally and with their relationship. This is all tied in with what is happening and who shows up, but it makes for powerful reading!
With a closer view on the other factions, it shows you the good and the bad. With visits to Amity, Candor and Erudite, we also meet with more characters of all factions. Some that are friendly, some that aren't.
I won't give out anything else, as I hate spoilers, but I will say that with more twists and intrigue than you can shake a stick at, these books are completely enthralling. I am absolutely loving this series and can't wait for the final book. Highly recommended.
* 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!
Mar 19, 2016
Emanuela Orlandi and Ettore Majorana: Two Italian Mysteries Resolved?
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Discover the captivating true stories of Emanuela Orlandi and Ettore Majorana in this compelling...
A Slay Ride Together with You
5.0
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The slay bells are ringing in this festive seventh installment of national bestselling author Vicki...
Merissa (13878 KP) rated Veil of Shadows (Seven Deadly Veils #1) in Books
Jan 12, 2024
VEIL OF SHADOWS is the first book in the Seven Deadly Veils series and we are introduced to a world that accepts paranormals... sort of. There is the usual hate group that wants to eradicate them from the face of the Earth, but most people accept them. Miranda is one who accepts. Her best friend is the Were Queen. Her roommate is a Were. Her lover is a Were. She is currently working for a vampire and is in the right place at the right time to take a poisoned dart for him. This brings her to the attention of the vampires, for good or for bad.
This is a twisted and intriguing story with romantic elements. But don't expect the MCs to immediately fall in love with each other, because you'll be disappointed. Miranda is free to be with anyone she chooses, and she does what she wants.
The biggest thing for me with this book was the multiple POVs. There were loads!!! And it wasn't announced in any way, so it was unclear who was talking and when it was. This made it quite confusing in places, even when I was enjoying it.
If you like Saga-type books with plenty of action and intrigue, then I definitely recommend this one.
** 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!
Jan 8, 2024
This is a twisted and intriguing story with romantic elements. But don't expect the MCs to immediately fall in love with each other, because you'll be disappointed. Miranda is free to be with anyone she chooses, and she does what she wants.
The biggest thing for me with this book was the multiple POVs. There were loads!!! And it wasn't announced in any way, so it was unclear who was talking and when it was. This made it quite confusing in places, even when I was enjoying it.
If you like Saga-type books with plenty of action and intrigue, then I definitely recommend this one.
** 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!
Jan 8, 2024
Merissa (13878 KP) rated Lord of Whispered Shadows (The Demon Reflected #1) in Books
Dec 13, 2025
LORD OF WHISPERED SHADOWS is the first book in The Demon Reflected series, set in a historical fantasy setting, where demons and mages are known about.
Archie is the youngest son of a noble family, second cousin to the Crown Prince, and his mother is desperate to marry him off. It becomes clear that the reason for this is that the eldest son, Charlie, who is a complete douche, has no intention of caring for his brother once he inherits. Or, indeed, even his mother. So when Archie accidentally summons and makes a deal with a succubus, you can only imagine how it will work. Especially when it is not common knowledge for two men to be together.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, seeing it through Archie's eyes as he gains small moments of pleasure from Damaris... and I don't mean between the sheets. I loved the romantic gestures, the ones Damaris knew Archie wanted, so he gave them to him. Like being walked home, for example. It was so sweet! Of course, it was also steamy in places, but nothing too far, as most of the time it faded to black.
I can't wait to continue with the royal intrigue and shenanigans in this series, and I'm really hoping for more Archie and Damaris too. Definitely 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!
Dec 11, 2025
Archie is the youngest son of a noble family, second cousin to the Crown Prince, and his mother is desperate to marry him off. It becomes clear that the reason for this is that the eldest son, Charlie, who is a complete douche, has no intention of caring for his brother once he inherits. Or, indeed, even his mother. So when Archie accidentally summons and makes a deal with a succubus, you can only imagine how it will work. Especially when it is not common knowledge for two men to be together.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, seeing it through Archie's eyes as he gains small moments of pleasure from Damaris... and I don't mean between the sheets. I loved the romantic gestures, the ones Damaris knew Archie wanted, so he gave them to him. Like being walked home, for example. It was so sweet! Of course, it was also steamy in places, but nothing too far, as most of the time it faded to black.
I can't wait to continue with the royal intrigue and shenanigans in this series, and I'm really hoping for more Archie and Damaris too. Definitely 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!
Dec 11, 2025
Cassie Osbourne (6 KP) rated Alice (The Chronicles of Alice #1) in Books
Nov 9, 2018
'Alice' is a dark and twisted reimagining of Lewis Carrol's classic children's story 'Alice in Wonderland' in which Alice (after escaping from the asylum she has been imprisoned in for ten years) has to navigate to Old City with her friend Hatch to slay the Jabberwock. Now, I am a lover of all things dark and creepy in a book, and I have to say that Christina Henry's retelling did not disappoint! The tie-ins and references to the original story were very, very clever and I'm sure that I could have spotted more if I had read or been a fan of the classic.
The main protagonists, Alice and Hatcher, are so well developed (and I'm sure will only get more so in the sequel). Both have compelling backstories and challenges to overcome as the story unfolds and the information is leaked in small, tiny fragments as their memories resurface. I also really enjoyed the comments in italics which were not explicitly attributed to Alice's thoughts as it made her madness (whether real or perceived) to be even more present as part of her character. If you love a good villain as I do then, boy, is this book for you! Sinister antagonists and 'bosses' lurk around every corner to delight and terrify you. I have to say that Cheshire and the Catapiller were my favourite characters - I just loved how smug and manipulative they were. However, I do have to mention that after all the build-up that Henry gives the Walrus and the Rabbit, when we meet them it is, very sadly, a bit of an anti-climax and the Jabberwock (who was supposed to be the Big Bad in the novel), it seemed was defeated too quickly and simplistically. I didn't especially buy it and would have liked a full chapter of it as I thought that the Jabberwock was excellent when we did meet him, so I just wanted a bit more time between him and Alice.
The atmosphere and overall writing-style in the book were both strong. As mentioned previously, everything was dark and strange (and strangeness is something that you would expect in a retelling of 'Alice in Wonderland'). I think the chapters in the Butterfly were well described and felt very real. Those chapters and the chapters in Cheshire's office were my favourites.
Regarding enjoyment and intrigue, there's nothing much to add apart from how much I utterly loved it and was gripped by the adventures. Every single chapter ended with a very Dicken's style cliffhanger, making the book almost impossible to put down and break away from the world that Henry creates. I finished it in pretty much one day, only stopping two chapters before the end because it was 1 am, and I had to be awake for work at 7 am so needed to get some sleep. Every chapter left me with the same thought - "f*** me, this book is good", and that is not a feeling that I've had while reading a book for a very, very long time. For all the lovers of dark tales out there, this is the book for you.
Characters: 8/10
Atmosphere: 9/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Plot: 7/10
Intrigue: 10/10
Logic: 7/10
Enjoyment: 10/10
The main protagonists, Alice and Hatcher, are so well developed (and I'm sure will only get more so in the sequel). Both have compelling backstories and challenges to overcome as the story unfolds and the information is leaked in small, tiny fragments as their memories resurface. I also really enjoyed the comments in italics which were not explicitly attributed to Alice's thoughts as it made her madness (whether real or perceived) to be even more present as part of her character. If you love a good villain as I do then, boy, is this book for you! Sinister antagonists and 'bosses' lurk around every corner to delight and terrify you. I have to say that Cheshire and the Catapiller were my favourite characters - I just loved how smug and manipulative they were. However, I do have to mention that after all the build-up that Henry gives the Walrus and the Rabbit, when we meet them it is, very sadly, a bit of an anti-climax and the Jabberwock (who was supposed to be the Big Bad in the novel), it seemed was defeated too quickly and simplistically. I didn't especially buy it and would have liked a full chapter of it as I thought that the Jabberwock was excellent when we did meet him, so I just wanted a bit more time between him and Alice.
The atmosphere and overall writing-style in the book were both strong. As mentioned previously, everything was dark and strange (and strangeness is something that you would expect in a retelling of 'Alice in Wonderland'). I think the chapters in the Butterfly were well described and felt very real. Those chapters and the chapters in Cheshire's office were my favourites.
Regarding enjoyment and intrigue, there's nothing much to add apart from how much I utterly loved it and was gripped by the adventures. Every single chapter ended with a very Dicken's style cliffhanger, making the book almost impossible to put down and break away from the world that Henry creates. I finished it in pretty much one day, only stopping two chapters before the end because it was 1 am, and I had to be awake for work at 7 am so needed to get some sleep. Every chapter left me with the same thought - "f*** me, this book is good", and that is not a feeling that I've had while reading a book for a very, very long time. For all the lovers of dark tales out there, this is the book for you.
Characters: 8/10
Atmosphere: 9/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Plot: 7/10
Intrigue: 10/10
Logic: 7/10
Enjoyment: 10/10