Kelle's Book Blog

Second Skin by Caitlin Kittredge

2009-11-05T11:07:00.001Z

The Blurb...
When werewolves from Nocturne City’s oldest packs are found shot through the head at point-blank range, homicide detective Luna Wilder isn’t sure what’s killing them or why…now the killer is determined to make Luna its next victim. To make matters worse, her boyfriend Dmitri’s demon bite is getting worse, weakening him and putting a major strain on their relationship.

Luna discovers the murders are linked to the Wendigo, shapeshifting cousins of werewolves made of smoke and shadow who drink the blood of their victims for strength. She doesn’t know whether Wendigo leader Lucas Kennuka is friend or foe, but he’s clearly determined to wrest her heart from Dmitiri. And if Luna doesn’t discover who’s behind the killings, it could destroy her fragile relationship—and cost Luna her life…

My Opinion...
Luna Wilder is back, so is Dimitri and then he leaves and then he is back. What a nightmar,e part of me just wishes for him to sod off, but then again he is good for Luna in so many ways. They are both as stubborn as can be and think they're opinions are justified, but they never really discuss anything, just fight or have wild hot were-sex. I liked the way this plot went. The ending made me chuckle, you will see why, don't skip to the end though as it might just not make sense. :)

Frostbitten by Kelley Armstrong

2009-11-05T11:01:00.003Z

The Blurb...
The Alaskan wilderness is a harsh landscape in the best of conditions, but with a pack of rogue werewolves on the loose, it's downright deadly. Elena Michaels, the American Werewolf Pack's chief enforcer, knows all too well the havoc "mutts" can wreak. When the Pack learns of a series of gruesome maulings and murders outside of Anchorage, Elena and her partner Clay travel to Alaska in the dead of winter, expecting to hunt down a pack of dangerous werewolves. But, trapped in a savage, frozen realm, it is their own untamed nature - and their werewolf heritage - they have to confront ...A gripping thriller with a magical twist, Frostbitten is a brilliant new novel from an international bestseller and a writer at the very top of her game.

My Opinion...
I loved seeing Elena again, being from her view point from the start, she has really gone on leaps and bounds from the charachter in Bitten. I adore this series, anyhow. Having Clay return was satisfying, it was great to see that he had changed, a little bit and was much more accepting of Elena's way of doing things. Lots of plot twists and seeing how things developed. Not a disappointing novel, new and old fans of Kelley's work are going to be very happy reading the latest installment in the Women of the Otherworld series.

Sins and Shadows by Lyn Benedict

2009-11-05T10:46:00.004Z

The Blurb...

Sylvie Lightner is no ordinary P.I. She specializes in cases involving the unusual, in a world where magic is real - and where death isn't the worst thing that can happen to you.

But when an employee is murdered in front of her, Sylvie has had enough. After years of confounding the dark forces of the Magicus Mundi, she's closing up shop - until a man claiming to be the God of Justice wants Sylvie to find his lost lover.

And he won't take no for an answer.

My Opinion...
It took me a little while to get into this book, I got distracted by another book after the first chapter but then came back to it. It takes a while to warm up to Sylvie, a bit of adjustment to get over her feeling sorry for herself, forever going to exclude all her friends from being involved. But it quickly leaps into adventure that just keeps speeding on. I ended up having a nightowl session to finish this book, well worth the patience at the start.

Librarything Profile for this book

Huntress

2009-11-05T10:44:00.001Z

The Blurb...
"Devils Bargain" is written by Christine Warren. Supernatural bounty hunter Lilli Corbin made a pact with Prince of Hell: to recover a book of prophecies. When she learns it could trigger the apocalypse, Lilli is forced to make the ultimate choice: save her soul or the man she loves? "The Robber Bride" is written by Marjorie M. Liu. Welcome to a post-apocalyptic world where humans are fed on for their life forces. Now it's up to Maggie, one of the last survivors, to hunt down and destroy an army of darkness. "Down in the Ground where Dead Men Go" is written by Caitlin Kittredge. Ava is a demon slayer who needs help from mage Jack Winter to reach the demon underworld - a place of dark temptation...And, maybe, one of no return. "Sin Slayer" is written by Jenna Maclaine. A demon called Jack the Ripper is killing off the city's vampire population. It's up to Cin Craven to hunt him down - and save the infected Michael, the love of her undead life.

My Opinion...

My mind wasn't really on this anthology as much as it should have been, it was alright nothing really popped out at me.

Retribution by Jeanne C Stein

2009-11-05T10:39:00.002Z

The Blurb...
With Belinda Burke, a powerful and deadly witch to track down, the last thing Anna needs is additional trouble with Williams. Warren Williams is the ex chief of police in San Diego, and a current leader in the local supernatural community. Their relationship has never been what Anna would consider good, but it’s deteriorating to a point that could be dangerous to both of their undead lives. Williams has a score to settle and he has no trouble destroying anyone who gets in his way, but it’s Anna who will ultimately put her life on the line and quite possibly save the supernatural population from a torturous and destructive future.

My Opinion...
Some people have called this a filler novel and though I am inclined to partly agree, it's definatley leading to something but this book still has a plot. Action packed and adventurous as always. Carries the plot on from the previous novel, Anna has now tied the loose end well and truly off. I must agree that Anna's supermodel boyfriend doesn't live up to the standards of her ex, but I have a feeling that the next book is going to lead somewhat in that area.

Cate Tiernan's Sweep Series 1-8

2009-11-05T10:20:00.006Z

Book of Shadows
Fifteen-year-old Morgan thinks witchcraft is laughable when her best friend, Bree, drags her to a meeting of the Cirrus Coven. But during a ceremony led by Cal, a new and very attractive boy who's just arrived in the area, Morgan starts to feel strange. Does she have special power? She doesn't want to get involved in witchcraft but it seems as though she doesn't have a choice. Gradually she discovers things about herself and her family that throw her whole life into question.

The Coven
Morgan has discovered she is a blood witch - that means the people she thought were her parents and her sister are not related to her, that she was adopted. She confronts her parents who reluctantly admit the adoption. Morgan is determined to find out more about her birth parents but her family try to stop her - why don't they want her to know the truth? Morgan's story is intersperced with extracts from her blood mother's Book of Shadows (a witch's book of personal spells, etc.). At the end Morgan finds her mother's Book of Shadows in her boyfriend's mother's private library.

Blood Witch
Morgan continues to unravel her past and the story of her birth mother as her relationship with Cal develops. She begins to understand more about her power as a blood witch when she finds her mother's tools of magic. Morgan can't quite relax into her relationship with Cal and the rather mysterious Hunter begins to feature more in her life. Cal and Hunter fight and, when Morgan intervenes, Hunter falls over the edge of the cliff into the rocks and water below. The book ends as Morgan begins herseventeenth birthday convinced that she is responsible for Hunter's death.

Dark Magick
Continues the story of Morgan as her power as a witch begins to grow. Her love for Cal deepens but she worries when Cal and Hunter, another witch, fight and she later believes she has caused Hunter's death. Morgan's powers grow stronger and she begins to discover truths about Cal and his mother, Selene Belltower, truths that cast doubt on Cal's motives and intentions towards Morgan.

Awakening
Morgan begins to understand something of her power and to move on with her life after the terrible betrayal of Cal, her first love. She realizes that Wicca can work for good or for evil as she fights the dark magick of Seline and Cal - and later David, who runs the store "Practical Magick".

Spellbound
Morgan continues to discover her powers as a blood witch of the Woodbane clan. She can't forget Cal, her first love, who tried to kill her, but is surprised to feel a growing attraction for Hunter. Her powers are now so strong that she is in danger from others in her clan and it is important for her to learn to use her witchcraft responsibly. When Selene and Cal use her sister Mary K. to get to her, Morgan realises that she and her family are in real danger.

The Calling
Morgan, Hunter and other members of their coven go to New York for a few days in search of the Amyranth witches. Hunter, a Seeker for the Council, is looking for Killian, a young witch in danger. It seems that Ciaran, Killian's father, is looking for him and intending to wipe his magic. After many false leads and strange meetings, it becomes clear that Ciaran is actually seaching for Morgan, wanting to take her power. He is not in the end able to do this as he suddenly realises that Morgan is his own child. Morgan is horrified to be the child of someone she considers evil. The book ends as she breaks up with Hunter because she believes she has inherited her father's evil and will damage those close to her.

Changeling
In the next installment of the compulsive series, Morgan faces the ultimate test - to choose between good or evil. She is asked by the Witch Council to lure her half-brother, Killian, in order to build a closer relationship with her father, Kieran. Her aim is to gain knowledge of the Dark Wave that will destroy Alice's coven, but, as Morgan and Hunter get back together, will her father successfully draw her over to the dark side?

My Opinion...
Having read 1-8 in this series in as close to one sitting as possible, it's obvious to see this are written for the youngest section of the YA range, though they are about a 15 year old the depth and bredth of knowledge in these books are small and could easily have been much deeper. They aren't the most wordy of books, hence the reason I have blogged them together. An interesting series, Morgan develops into a different person by book 8.

Blue Diablo by Ann Aguirre

2009-11-05T10:18:00.001Z

The Blurb...
Right now, I’m a redhead. I’ve been blonde and brunette as the situation requires, though an unscheduled color change usually means relocating in the middle of the night. So far, I’m doing well here. Nobody knows what I’m running from. And I’d like to keep it that way…

Eighteen months ago, Corine Solomon crossed the border to Mexico City, fleeing her past, her lover, and her “gift”. Corine, a handler, can touch something and know its history—and sometimes, its future. Using her ability, she can find the missing—and that’s why people never stop trying to find her. People like her ex, Chance…

Chance, whose uncanny luck has led him to her doorstep, needs her help. Someone dear to them both has gone missing in Laredo, Texas, and the only hope of finding her is through Corine’s gift. But their search may prove dangerous as the trail leads them into a strange dark world of demons and sorcerers, ghosts and witchcraft, zombies—and black magic…

My Opinion...
The first thing paranormal I have read from Aguirre, I am a big fan of her Sirantha Jax series. This is quite different, the charcters are built lovingly, the plot develops into something amazing. Well worth a read.

Mean Streets

2009-11-05T10:15:00.001Z

The Blurb...
The best paranormal private investigators have been brought together in one volume - and cases don't come any harder than this. Jim Butcher delivers a hard-boiled tale in which Harry Dresden's latest case may be his last. Nightside dweller John Taylor is hired by a woman to find something she lost - her memory. Kat Richardson's Greywalker finds herself in too deep when a simple job goes bad. And detective Remy Chandler has been hired to find out who killed the immortal being we know as Noah.

My Opinion...
A great anthology. I loved Jim Butcher and Thomas Sniegoski's novellas so much. Initially is was the Harry Dresden tale that pulled me to buy this collection. Remy Chandler is someone I'd like to get to know, going to read more from this author.

Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost

2009-11-05T10:13:00.002Z

The Blurb...
After their recent war with rogue vampires, Cat thinks a little rest and relaxation are in their future. But she's plagued by dreams of a Master vampire who claims to be from her past. As the dreams intensify and the shadowy figure in them proves to be more than a figment of her subconscious, she realizes there are parts of her past that have been hidden. To unlock these memories and deal with a growing danger to herself and Bones, Cat may have to venture all the way into the grave. But finding out the truth could rock what she knows about herself - and her relationship with Bones.

My Opinion...
A great conclusion to this series, thought Cat and Bones will be appearing in the spin off series. Cat still has many human flaws and so does Bones. A great plot twist and lots of action. Cat should trust Bones more and Bones should stop leaving Cat in the dark.

Leader of the Pack by Karen MacInernay

2009-11-05T10:11:00.001Z

The Blurb...
On the outside, Sophie Garou is living every woman's dream: She has beauty, brains and a big-time position in Austin's most respected accounting firm(not to mention a very sexy, very successful new boyfriend). But there's one thing Sophie would rather keep under wraps: She's a werewolf. Sophie's life gets a little more hairy when her long-estranged father, Luc, arrives in the Live Music Capital to attend the werewolves' annual Howl and reconnect with his daughter. But Luc's plans fall apart after he's accused of murder and arrested by his archrival, Wolfgang, leader of the Houston pack (and one notoriously dirty dog). Wolfgang drools at the thought of Luc's impending execution, but Sophie won't let her father die without a fight. Determined to prove her innocence, she and her friends set out to find the real killer. Along the way, Sophie must deal with taboo attractions, Machiavellian intrigues, sinister agendas, and hair-raising betrayals.

My Opinion...
Fun and action packed, a great series to read. I did clap my hands at the end in excitement.

Witch Fury by Anya Bast

2009-11-05T10:09:00.001Z

The Blurb...
With the untapped gift to create fire, witch Sarafina Connell is caught up in a war between good and evil. And she has no choice but to join an infamous playboy in the battle for supremacy - one that's getting hotter by the minute.

My Opinion...
Conclusional book to this four part series. Still a bit mushy in many ways but the plot comes to an end which is satisfying and sad.

Witch Heart by Anya Bast

2009-11-05T10:07:00.001Z

The Blurb...
Claire, a demon's handmaiden, is rescued from enslavement by a handsome playboy. Now they're both in danger of being captured by warlocks who are determined to harness Claire's powers for evil. The third in the Elemental Witch series.

My Opinion...
A great big plot development, predictable romance what more could a girl want? Well a bit less hot and mushy-ness. One more book to go and I can sell them on.

Witch Blood by Anya Bast

2009-11-05T10:03:00.001Z

The Blurb...
Water witch Isabelle Novak must form an uneasy alliance with earth witch Thomas Mahan to hunt and destroy a demon of tremendous power, even though Thomas' very presence stirs deeper desires than she ever knew she had. This is the secong instalment in the Elemental Witch series.

My Opinion...
Again, rather predictable in the romance department, but, the storyline isn't too bad and almost readable.

Strange Brew

2009-11-05T09:57:00.005Z

My Opinion...
This anthology contains nine paranormal short stories all with the theme 'Drink'.

1. Seeing Eye by Patricia Briggs - A blind witch decides to help a man, a werewolf, find his brother who is an undercover cop and has disappeared while on a case.

2. Last Call by Jim Butcher - Harry Dresden walks into his favorite bar for a beer and a sandwich and finds chaos instead. What is wrong with the beer being brewed by the bar owner?

3. Death Warmed Over by Rachel Caine - Holly is a resurrectionist witch. The last time she brought Andrew Toland back from the dead she fell in love with him. Now the police need his special help to solve another case but how can Holly stand the pain when Andrew has to die this time?

4. Vegas Odds by Karen Chance - Accalia (Lia) trains recruits at the War Mage Corps. Imagine her surprise when she realizes it is her own students who are trying to kill her.

5. Hecate's Golden Eye by P. N. Elrod - Chicago 1937 - Charles Escott and his undead colleague Jack Fleming are hired to help the rightful owner steal back her pendant. The history of the jewel says that any man who touches the Golden Eye dies. Luckily for Jack, he's already dead.

6. Bacon by Charlaine Harris - Dahlia Lynley-Chivers is a vampire who is now a widow because her werewolf husband was defeated in a challenge fight for pack position. She hires a witch to help her find out what was done to her husband to make him vulnerable and weak during the fight.

7. Signatures of the Dead by Faith Hunter - Spruce Pine, North Carolina, is being targeted by a band of rogue vampires. Earth witch Molly Trueblood and her friend shapeshifter Jane Yellowrock must find the vampire lair or the killings will continue.

8. Ginger by Caitlin Kittredge - Sunny Swann and her cousin Luna grew up in Nocturne City. Sunny is a witch without much confidence in her powers totally unlike her werewolf cousin. Then why would someone want to kidnap Sunny?

9. Dark Sins by Jenna Maclaine - Venice 1818 - Cin, Michael, Devlin and Justine (The Righteous-judge, jury, and executioners in the world of vampires) are in the city for pleasure, not business. When they are all four kidnapped by a wizard and his coven Cin is forced to chose between the lives of her lover and friends or dark, evil magic.

I definitely enjoyed reading this marvelous anthology. It gave me exactly what I want from a collection of short stories such as these. There are many stories which feature characters already made well known by these authors. Particular favorites of mine are the stories by Patricia Briggs, Jim Butcher, Rachel Caine, P. N. Elrod and Faith Hunter. I have not read novels by many of these authors and this anthology has given me a chance to sample their works and make the decision of whether or not to go seek out and read their full length books.

Witch Fury by Anya Bast

2009-11-05T09:40:00.000Z

The Blurb...
After a chaotic marriage and a rough divorce, all Mira Hoskin wants is stability and normality. But when sexy Jack McAllister enters her life, she discovers that what you want is not always what you need. Jack is a powerful witch with the ability to command fire and is anything but normal. As the head of a security detail for The Coven, Jack has been assigned to watch over Mira. She is a natural born witch with the ability to control air and a group of renegade witches has discovered her exsistence and are determined to steal her power - and her life.

My Opinion...
I bought the whole series on eBay a complete bargain really, or so I thought, a bit too romancy for my liking. A good read, action packed but predictable in the romance department.

Prey by Rachel Vincent

2009-11-05T09:28:00.002Z

The Blurb...
A battle is coming, and Faythe will not allow the Pride to become prey...Faythe has finally come to accept that she will someday be Alpha of the Pride, and she is hell-bent on changing the sexist Tribal Council from the inside. But first she must ensure that there will still be a Pride left to lead. Her father's role as Alpha is at risk, as is his control over the territory they all love. At the same time, Faythe's exiled boyfriend is under attack from rogues somehow connected to the political schemes of the tribal council. With her world collapsing around her, Faythe must fight to keep her friends and family together, as their enemies conspire against them.

My Opinion...

I had this book preordered with Amazon and was excited to receive it on the actual day of release, which is not usually what happens with Amazon UK, who aren't the best at actually delivering on the day of release. I read this book in one sitting, stayed up all night rivited, a great fourth book in this series, Faythe is still infuriating at times but she shows great promise in this book, she starts seeing the bigger picture and realising what her future may hold.

Red by Jordan Summers

2009-11-05T09:26:00.000Z

The Blurb...
War is brewing in a near-future world where murder is all but unheard of and the existence of creatures known as the Others has yet to be proven.Gina Santiago is a member of an elite tactical team in charge of protecting the world. She's devoted her life to apprehending the most heinous criminals that prey on society-and now she's after the worst one yet. On her own, with no backup, the trail takes her to a dusty, tight-knit town on the fringes of society, where everyone's a suspect. Even the sexy sheriff, Morgan Hunter, isn't telling her everything. Gina knows he's trouble, but she's inexorably drawn to him.The closer Gina comes to finding out the secret of this sleepy little town and its big bad sheriff, and the closer she comes to catching the predator, the more scared she gets - because she's beginning to realize that she has a secret too. A secret that will change Gina's life...and make her the killer's prey.

My Opinion...
This story was leading in an obvious direction but it was pleasant to see how it got there, though it was often times staring you straight in the face you wondered if there would be a twist towards the end, there was and it made me go out and by Scarlet and preorder Crimson.

A Lick of Frost by Laurell K Hamilton

2009-11-05T09:23:00.003Z

The Blurb...
You know me. I am Meredith Gentry, princess and heir apparent to the throne in the realm of Faerie. Once I was a private investigator in the mortal world...

You also know my circumstances: to be crowned queen, I must first continue the royal bloodline, and give birth to an heir of my own. And if I fail? Then my aunt, Queen Andais, will be free to do what she most desires: to place her twisted son, Cel, upon the throne of Faerie...and kill me.

I am surrounded by loyal guards, and my best loved - my Darkness and my Killing Frost - are sworn to protect me and to make love to me. Yet for all our eager carnal efforts, I remain childless...while the machinations of my sinister, sadistic Queen and her confederates remain tireless. So my bodyguards and I, hoping to outrun the gathering shadows of court intrigue, have slipped back into Los Angeles. But it seems exile is not enough to escape those with dark designs upon us.

Now King Taranis, powerful and vainglorious ruler of Faerie's Seelie court, has accused my guards of a heinous crime and asked the mortal authorities to prosecute them. If he succeeds, my men face extradition to Faerie - and a hideous fate. But I know Taranis's charges are baseless. His true target is me. He tried to kill me when I was a child. And now I fear his intentions are far more terrifying

My Opinion...
Bear with me while I sit down... Well this book was a bit of a shocker, now bear in mind what I said about the last book - more sex scenes than you can shake a stick at and the plot hidden at the back. Well there was still plenty of sex, but the plot actually was there and consistent throughout the book. Now I wouldn't personally rush out and pay full price for the next installment, but if I saw it in a charity shop or second hand bookstore I may just buy it.

Mistral's Kiss by Laurell K Hamilton

2009-11-05T09:19:00.002Z

The Blurb....
Once upon a time I had a day job: I was a private detective. But now my other life has become a full time occupation...I am Princess Meredith, heir to the throne of Faerie.

A virtual prisoner of my aunt, the Queen of Air and Darkness, I am incarcerated with just some of our world's most beautiful men for company. They are my bodyguards - and my lovers. For I have a duty to perform: I must produce an heir. And if I fail? Well, then my life is forfeit and death awaits at the vengeful hands of my treacherous cousin Cel and his followers.

But now Mistral, captain of the queen's guard, has come to my bed. In so doing, he defies her and condemns us both. However our pleasure has reawakened an old, wild magic, a power so ancient that none can stand against it - neither my strongest, most favoured consorts nor Mistral himself. If I can but reclaim control of this fey power, there is hope and we may yet survive...

Herein lies the sensual, twilight world of Meredith Gentry, where the erotic and the exotic, the decadent and the deadly collide. You have been warned...

My Opinion...

This book has been on my tbr pile a long time, a charity shop bargain in hardback, it was starting to take up much needed space on my shelves, so I read it. It's been a while since I delved into her fae series, and I remember why I put it down. Too smutty for my own liking, though a well placed sex scence is appropriate, in this book I'd like some plot with my sex. Well towards the end, almost the last chapter the plot appears for a very brief while and actually makes this book [almost] worth reading.

To Hell and Back by Lilith Saintcrow

2009-11-05T09:16:00.001Z

The Blurb...
Dante Valentine has been through Hell. Literally. Her body shattered and her mind not far behind, she's dumped back into her own world to survive - or not - as a pawn in one of Lucifer's endless games. Unfortunately, he's just messed with the wrong Necromance. And this time she's mad enough to do something about it. This time, the Devil will pay.

My Opinion...
Last in the Dante Valentine Series, conclusion to Dante's adventures. A bit of a hard read this one, Dante is at her most angsty and it tends to get in the way. I'm glad I actually finished this one, it's been one I have picked up and put down alot.

Hunter's Prayer by Lilith Saintcrow

2009-11-05T09:13:00.003Z

The Blurb...
Jill Kismet, Dealer in Dark Things. Spiritual Exterminator. Demon Slayer - it's not the type of work you can put on a business card. But every city has people like me. Usually the police have us on payroll as consultants, because what ordinary cop can face down a Were or an ordinary shapechanger, or an Assyrian demon? Not to mention the silvers or the Black Mist, the adepts of Sorrow House or of the Middle Way? What ordinary cop stands a chance against a Trader, even? People disappear all the time, it's an epidemic; some of the disappearances are murder, some are fugitives, some are kidnapped by other human beings. Some of them are even found again. But a good proportion of them are taken by the things that go bump in the night. And then it becomes a hunter's job to bump back. Hard.

My Opinion...
Another good book, second in the Jill Kismet series, action packed, Jill is developing into a kick ass heroine.

Night Shift by Lilith Saintcrow

2009-11-05T09:09:00.002Z

The Blurb...
Jill Kismet is a dealer in dark things and demon slayer, and it's her job to patrol the nightside. In the cold pre-dawn, Jill is called in to assess the aftermath of a particularly savage cop-killing. Under the haunted eyes of the forensic techs, Jill picks up the stench of hellbreed and something else - something dangerous and tainted. But this makes no sense as hellbreed always work alone, distrusted even by their own kind. Jill's a Hunter, trained by the best, but she's in over her head. Welcome to the night shift ...

My Opinion...
This is the first book in a new series, Jill Kismet, set in the same world as the Dante Valentine series. Action paced as always with anything Lili writes, she has a great way of setting scenes and building characters. Jill is also lest angsty than Dante so is a touch easier to read.

On the Prowl

2009-11-04T15:42:00.002Z

The Blurb...
These all-new paranormal romances from today's hottest authors feature a female werewolf who comes into her own; a Lord who crosses paths with a fiery mage; a mixed-blood Child of the Moon who faces an uncertain future; and a woman whose sixth sense proves to be a dangerous talent.

My Verdict
A great selection of short stories, I am a big fan of anthologies. I already own/read books in the worlds created by these authors.

The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong

2009-11-04T15:39:00.001Z

What the Blurb says...
Chloe Saunders used to be a normal teenage girl - or so she thought. Then she learned the shocking truth - she is a walking science experiment. Genetically altered at birth by a sinister group of scientists known as the Edison Group, Chloe is an aberration - a powerful necromancer who can see ghosts and even raise the dead, often with terrifying consequences. Even worse, her growing powers have made her a threat to the surviving members of the Edison Group, who have decided it's time to end their experiment - permanently ...Now Chloe is running for her life with three other supernatural teenagers - a charming sorcerer, a troubled werewolf and a temperamental young witch. Together they have a chance for freedom - but can Chloe trust her new friends?

In my Opinion.

The second in the series, some real interesting plot twists, very fun and adventurous indeed.

White Witch, Black Curse by Kim Harrison

2009-11-04T15:37:00.001Z

The Blurb...
The 7th stirring instalment of the urban fantasy-thriller series starring Rachel Morgan. A pacey and addictive novel of sexy bounty-hunting witches, cunning demons and vicious vampires. The demon, Algaliarept, although banished back into the everafter has infected others of his kind with his interest in a witch who can channel demon magic. Rachel soon finds herself with not one but three hellions on her tail; and one of them is even crazier and more dangerous than all the fairy assassins, weres and vampires on the planet.

In my opinion...
It's been a while since I read anything from the Hollows and I remember why, a few sniffles to start with but then it really gets into the action, well paced, great to see Ivy, Jenks etc back on form.

Specials by Scott Westerfeld

2009-11-04T15:35:00.001Z

What the Blurb Says...
"Special Circumstances" - These words have sent chills down Tally's spine since her days as a rebellious Ugly. Back then Specials were a sinister rumour - frighteningly beautiful, dangerously strong, breathtakingly fast. Ordinary pretties might live their whole lives without meeting a Special. But Tally's never been ordinary...Now she's been turned into one of them: a superamped fighting machine, engineered to keep the Uglies down and the Pretties stupid. The strength, the speed, and the clarity and focus of her thinking feel better than anything Tally can remember...most of the time. One tiny corner of her heart still remembers something more. Still, it's easy to tune that out - until Tally's offered a chance to stamp out the rebels of the New Smoke permanently. It all comes down to one last choice: carry out the mission she's programmed to complete, or listen to that tiny, faint heartbeat telling her that something's wrong...Either way, Tally's world will never be the same.

In my Opinion...
Another great book in this series, really well created world.

Chosen by P.C. & Kristen Cast

2009-11-04T15:33:00.003Z

What the Blurb Says...
"I guess it had gone okay with Stevie Rae. I mean, she had agreed to meet me tomorrow. And she hadn't tried to bite me, which was a plus. Of course, the whole trying-to-eat-the-street-person thing was highly disturbing..." Zoey's best friend, Stevie Rae, is undead - in an eww! zombie! kind-of-way, not in a cool vampire kind-of-way. She's struggling to retain her humanity and Zoey doesn't have a clue how to help. But she does know that anything they discover must be kept secret. Trust has become a rare commodity. Sinister forces are at work at the House of Night, where the line between friend and enemy is becoming dangerously blurred. Not suitable for younger readers.

In my opinion...

Grrr, this series has me hooked, yet I can't stand the main character. Not going to pay full price for the next few in the series, but if they are on offer then I may just succomb.

Betrayed by P.C. & Kristen Cast

2009-11-04T15:30:00.000Z

What the Blurb Says...
It seems that (un)life is going pretty well for Zoey Redbird. She's settled in at the House of Night finishing school and is coming to terms with the vast powers the vampyre goddess, Nyx, has given her. She even has a boyfriend...or two. Best of all, Zoey finally feels she has found somewhere she belongs. Then the unthinkable happens.Human teenagers are being killed, and all the evidence points to the vampires at Zoey's school. While danger stalks the humans from Zoey's past life, she begins to realise that the very powers that made her so unique might also threaten those she loves. Then, when she needs her new friends the most, death strikes the House of Night. Zoey finds herself facing a betrayal that could break her heart and jeopardise the very fabric of her world. Not suitable for younger readers.

In my Opinion...

This was a very frustrating read, I know YA's are fickle at times, I remember it well myself, but two boyfriends at once and carrying them on, no wonder her friends fell out with her, I've already bought the third book in the series so I shall read it next just to clear it off myshelf.

Marked by P.C. & Kristen Cast

2009-11-04T15:28:00.001Z

What the Blurb Says...
When sixteen-year-old Zoey Redbird gets Marked as a fledgling vampire she must join the House of Night school where she will train to become an adult vampire. That is, if she makes it through the Change. But Zoe is no ordinary fledgling. She has been chosen as special by the Goddess Nyx and discovers her amazing new power to conjure the elements: earth, air, fire, water and spirit. When Zoey discovers that the leader of the Dark Daughters, the school's most elite group, is misusing her Goddess-given gifts, Zoey must look within herself to embrace her destiny - with a little help from her new vampire friends. Not suitable for younger readers.

In my opinion...

This looks like a promising to be a great series, read in an afternoon a great start to a new series.

Pretties by Scott Westerfeld

2009-11-04T15:26:00.001Z

What the Blurb Says...
Tally has finally become 'pretty'. Her looks are beyond perfect, her clothes are cool, her boyfriend is totally gorgeous, and she's completely popular. It's everything she's ever wanted. But beneath all the fun - the non-stop parties, the high-tech luxury, the total freedom - is a nagging feeling that something is very wrong. Something important. And sure enough, when a message from Tally's 'ugly' past arrives, the fun stops cold. Now Tally has to choose between fighting to forget what she knows and fighting for her life...

My Opinion...
This book changes things for Tally and her world, the world was enlarged and more mystery. A great YA book.

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

2009-11-04T15:24:00.003Z

What the Blurb Says...
Tally lives in a world where your sixteenth birthday brings aesthetic perfection: an operation which erases all your flaws, transforming you from an 'Ugly' into a 'Pretty'. She is on the eve of this important event, and cannot wait for her life to change. As well as guaranteeing supermodel looks, life as a Pretty seems to revolve around having a good time. But then she meets Shay, who is also fifteen - but with a very different outlook on life. Shay isn't sure she wants to be Pretty and plans to escape to a community in the forest - the Rusty Ruins - where Uglies go to escape ' turning'. Tally won't be persuaded to join her, as this would involve sacrificing everything she's ever wanted for a lot of uncertainty. When she is taken in for questioning on her birthday, however, Tally gets sent to the Ruins anyway - against her will. The authorities offer Tally the worst choice she could ever imagine: find her friend Shay and turn her in, or never turn Pretty at all. What she discovers in the Ruins reveals that there is nothing 'pretty' about the transformations...And the choice Tally makes will change her world forever.

What I thought...
I was sucked into this series so quickly, it was a great series full of adventure, mystery. I loved how the language and the technology, very interesting.

Poltergeist by Kat Richardson

2009-11-04T15:20:00.002Z

What the Blurb Says...
Meet Harper Blaine. She doesn't just see dead people? Harper Blaine was your average small-time PI until she died - for two minutes. Now she's a Greywalker - walking the thin line between the living world and the paranormal realm. And she's discovering that her new abilities are landing her all sorts of "strange" cases. In the days leading up to Halloween, Harper's been hired by a university research group that is attempting to create an artificial poltergeist. The head researcher suspects someone is deliberately faking the phenomena, but Harper's investigation reveals something else entirely - they've succeeded. And when one of the group's members is killed in a brutal and inexplicable fashion, Harper must determine whether the killer is the ghost itself, or someone all too human.

My Opinion...
I didn't really bond with this book and even thought the other books in the series were riviting I really couldn't get into this one, it was a chore to read.

The Dangerous Book for Demon Slayers by Angie Fox

2009-11-04T15:15:00.002Z

What the Blurb Says...
Demon slaying powers should come with an instruction book ...

Seriously. Why does a new hair dryer have a twelve-page how-to manual, but when it comes to ancient demon-fighting hocus-pocus, my biker witch granny gives me just half a dozen switch stars and a rah-rah speech? Oh, and a talking terrier, but that's another story. It's not like my job as a preschool teacher prepared me for this kind of thing.

So I've decided to write my own manual, The Dangerous Book for Demon Slayers, because no one tells me anything. Dimitri, my "protector," may be one stud of a shape-shifting griffin, but he always thinks he can handle everything by himself. Only he's no match for the soul-stealing succubi taking over Las Vegas. If I can't figure out how to save him - and Sin City - there'll be hell to pay.

My opinion...

This is such a fun series, Lizzie is cheeky and funny, Grams is kickass and witty, such a great combination, it was a fun and fast read. Can't wait for the next.

Don't Talk Back to Your Vampire by Michele Bardsley

2009-11-04T15:12:00.003Z

What the Blurb Says....
Ever since a master vampire became possessed and bit a bunch of parents, the town of Broken Heart, Oklahoma, has catered to those of us who don't rise until sunset - even if that means PTA meetings at midnight.
As for me, Eva LeRoy, town librarian and single mother to a teenager daughter. I'm pretty much used to being "vampified". You can't beat the great side effects: no crow's-feet or cellulite! But books still make my undead heart beat - and, strangely enough,so does Lorcan the Loner. My mama always told me everyone deserves a second chance. Still, it's one thing to deal with usual undead hassles: rival vamps, rambunctious kids adjusting to night school, and my daughter's new boyfriend, who's a vampire hunter, for heaven's sake. It's quite another to fall for the vampire who killed you...

My verdict...

Second in the series, follows on from I'm the Vampire That's Why, from a different character viewpoint. Chick Lit with Fangs.

I'm the Vampire That's Why by Michele Bardsley

2009-11-04T15:08:00.002Z

What the Blurb says...

There's a new breed of soccer mom in town-with fangs. Does drinking blood make me a bad mother? That's the question single mom Jessica Matthews faces when she wakes from a savage attack sucking on the thigh of Patrick O'Halloran, a super-hot Irish vampire who'd generously offered his femoral artery to save her from death...only to make her one of the undead. Jessica can't rest until the beast that did this to her is caught. Meanwhile, she's having trouble committing to Patrick (in the vampire handbook, physical intimacy costs you several hundred years of being bound together) and keeping her kids in line.

My Review...

This has been on my tbr pile for a looooong time, when I finally got around to reading it, it wasn't as bad as I first thought it would be, I am not a big fan of chick lit it's a bit too 'fluffy' for my liking, but this has fangs and it's not fluffy. Each book is written by a different character's opinion.

The Mammoth Book of Vampire Romance

2009-11-04T15:01:00.003Z

What the Blurb Says...

24 new short stories from the hottest names

Fall in love with someone out of this world.

If love transcends all boundaries then paranormal romance is its logical conclusion. From the biggest names around, here are 24 tales to take you to another time and place.

Let Alyssa Day, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Cheyenne McCray, Jeaniene Frost, Ilona Andrews, Kelley Armstrong, Maria V. Snyder, Carrie Vaughn, Allyson James Marland and others show you powers beyond your wildest imaginings.

Within these pages mythical beasts, magical creatures of all shapes and sizes, heart-stoppingly handsome ghosts, angels, and mortals with extra-sensitive sensory perception play out the themes of extraordinary desires.

This is the titles of the shorts and the authors
The temptation of Robin Green / Carrie Vaughn

Succubus Seduction / Cheyenne McCray
Paranormal romance blues / Kelley Armstrong
John Doe / Anna Windsor
Taking hold / Anya Bast
How to date a superhero / Jean Johnson
Daniel / C. T. Adams and Cathy Clamp
Light through fog / Holly Lisle
The Tuesday enchantress / Mary Jo Putney
Trinity blue / Eve Silver
Grace of small magics / Ilona Andrews
Once a demon / Dina James
Night vision / Maria V. Snyder
Pele's tears / Catherine Mulvany
Pack / Jeaniene Frost
When gargoyles fly / Lori Devoti
The lighthouse keeper and his wife / Sara Mackenzie
Blood song / Lynda Hilburn
The princess and the peas / Alyssa Day
At second bite / Michelle Rowen
Blue Crush / Rachel Caine
The wager / Sherrilyn Kenyon
In sheep's clothing / Meljean Brook
The dream catcher / Allyson James

My Verdict...

I loved this collection of short stories, a great introduction to many new authors that I had never even thought about reading until now.

A great collection, you don't need to have read any of the previous works, they are a glimpse into their world [or another one] and it's nice to try new authors.

Turn Coat by Jim Butcher

2009-09-21T13:11:00.001+01:00

What the Blurb says...

In the Dresden Files, New York Times bestselling author Jim Butcher has built a world hailed as "dynamic and complex, and utterly fascinating."* Now Chicago's only professional wizard, Harry Dresden, is about to find that the one thing more dangerous than his mortal enemies may be his closest allies...

When it comes to the magical ruling body known as the White Council, Harry keeps his nose clean and his head down. For years, the Council has held a death mark over Harry's head. He's still thought of as a black sheep by some - and as a sacrificial lamb by others. But none regard him with more suspicion and disdain than Morgan, a veteran Warden with a grudge against anyone who bends the rules.

Like Harry.

So when Morgan turns up asking for help, Harry isn't exactly eager to leap into action. Morgan has been accused of treason against the White Council - and there's only one final punishment for that crime. He's on the run, he wants his name cleared, and he needs someone with a knack for backing the underdog.

Like Harry.

Now Harry must uncover a traitor within the Council, keep less than agreeable Morgan under wraps, and avoid coming under scrutiny himself. And a single mistake may cost someone his head.

My review...

I love Harry Dresden like a brother, you know the kind that always get's into trouble but hates to ask for help.

This book was one of the best in my opinion, you get the know-how of the Wizarding Council in much more detail than any other books. Harry kicks ass and regularly gets his ass handed back to him. The charachters keep growing, Jim's writing gets better and better. Seriously can't wait for more from my favourite urban fantasy author.

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

2009-09-21T12:55:00.002+01:00

What the blurb says...

deliciously exotic urban fantasy that is sexy, mysterious and dangerously good fun!

When 15-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder -- much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing -- not even a smear of blood -- to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?

This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother?And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know...

Exotic and gritty, exhilarating and utterly gripping, Cassandra Clare's ferociously entertaining fantasy takes readers on a wild ride that they will never want to end.

My review...

This is a YA Urban Fantasy at it's best, a great tale of mystery and adventure. As an adult I really enjoyed it, at times I found it slighlty over repetitive in it's discriptions, like 'Tom is a midnight black kitten who had the blackest, midnight fur ever seen on a black cat', that's not from the book but it's how descriptive it can be at times. That was the only gripe I had though, the rest of the story was great.

I have picked up the next two in series but haven't had a chance to read them yet.

Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews

2009-09-21T12:25:00.003+01:00

What the blurb says...

Drafted into working for the Order of Merciful Aid, mercenary Kate Daniels has more paranormal problems than she knows what to do with these days. And in Atlanta, where magic comes and goes like the tide, that’s saying a lot.

But when Kate’s werewolf friend Derek is discovered nearly dead, she must confront her greatest challenge yet. As her investigation leads her to the Midnight Games – an invitation only, no holds barred, ultimate preternatural fighting tournament – she and Curran, the Lord of the Beasts, uncover a dark plot that may forever alter the face of Atlanta’s shapeshifting community…

My Review...

I love this series a lot. A recent re-read of Magic Burns the week before this came to me was well worth doing. I was in the mode to dive straight into Magic Strikes, with enthusiasm, a frenzied reading session, I really struggled to put this book down. Sneak reading at work and then sped home to finish reading it, OH has to get the dinner and I kept going to 4AM to finish it. Part of me hates rushing as the joy of a new books is quickly over, but the part of me that loves rushing was in seventh heaven as it really needed to be read in one sitting, right?

Ilona writes another great novel, full of action, romance, action, Curran getting his own way and action.

The Scot, The Witch and the Wardrobe by Annette Blair

2009-09-21T12:19:00.006+01:00

What the blurb says...

Sexy new romance from the national bestselling author of My Favorite Witch.

To restore his clan to glory, Rory MacKenzie must reclaim a beautifully carved unicorn. His search leads him to Victoria Cartwright, whose untapped magical power reveals a long-hidden treasure in her.

My review...

A conclusion to the Accidental Witch Series, thought I did enjoy this book it's not the 'type' I would normally read. More Romance than Witchcraft. It sets up for Annette's next series the Triplet Witch Series, which was a tad annoying.

Over the Moon by Patricia Briggs et al

2009-08-14T14:48:00.002+01:00

What the blurb says...

Three bestselling superstars and one exciting new voice in paranormal romance in a hot new anthology.

When it comes to sexy werewolves, fairies, and magic, there's only one place for readers to go this winter: Over the Moon.

Angela Knight ventures to the borders of Mageverse, a land ruled by vampire knights.

MaryJanice Davidson returns to the wicked lair of the Wyndham werewolves.

Virginia Kantra finds magic and wonder in a strange fairy kingdom.

And Sunny discovers a Mixed Blood Queen in command of a new realm.

My review...

I loved the MJD tale the most, the others were... alright.. but not the reason I picked up this anthology.

Brimstone Kiss by Carole Nelson Douglas

2009-08-14T14:43:00.003+01:00

What the Blurb says...

Delilah and her partner - tall, dark, handsome, and Hispanic ex-FBI guy Ric Montoya - are busy solving a "Romeo and Juliet" double-murder and she's got plenty more to deal with: vampires, werewolves, and tigers, oh my!

My review...

I still felt confused with this series, this is the second book in the series and it really is cryptic, you just bump from one thing to the next with no real explanation why and delilah doesn't even seem that bothered to find out why, what, when and where. Quicksilver is the one thing in this book I like, yet that is still a bit mysterious. This is the last book I will be reading in this series.

Mammoth Book of Vampire Romance by Trisha Telep et al

2009-08-14T14:37:00.001+01:00

What the blurb says...

The biggest names in vampire romance have created a fascinating array of 30 short stories of hot blood and inhuman passions that will leave you thirsting for more. Authors include Sherri Erwin, Caitlin R. Kiernan, Jenna Black, Jenna Maclaine, Raven Hart, Delilah Devlin, Keri Arthur, Kimberly Raye, Alexis Morgan, Lilith Saintcrow, C.T. Adams, Cathy Clamp, Susan Sizemore, Dina James, Colleen Gleason, Barbara Emrys, Savannah Russe, Shiloh Walker, Vicki Pettersson, Rebecca York, Rachel Vincent, Amanda Ashley, Karen Chance, and Nancy Holder. These ain't your mother's vampires!

My review...

Wow, what a selection of stories, not all set in the 'world' that the author is known for, not all about characters previously written about. Well worth a read if you are wanting to find some new authors to worship.

Maneater by Thomas Emson

2009-08-14T14:35:00.002+01:00

What the blurb says...

She's not sweet. She's not nice. She doesn't fight evil. She doesn't protect the weak. She doesn't serve humanity. She doesn't work in an office by day and have a secret identity by night. She doesn't have friends and family who know nothing about her but when they find out they love her anyway. She's not cool. She's not clever. She's not kind to animals. She won't help children, the elderly, and those less fortunate than herself. In fact, she doesn't care. But if you hurt her, she will kill you. Actually, she'll do worse than that - Meet Laura. She'll eat you alive.

My review...

This was a surprising gem. Well written, grisly, fascinating and could not put it down.

Prey by Melina Morel

2009-08-14T14:32:00.001+01:00

What the Blurb says...

Evil Stalks the city that never sleeps...

Vivian Roussel prefers to keep a low profile - she is, after all, a werecat, descendant of an ancient demigoddess, and highly regarded in Manhattan's nightworld. But when she's robbed of a priceless icon, she has only one recourse for protection.

Surveillance expert and werecat Pavel Federov never gets personal with his clients.But he's drawn to Vivian. Pavel soon discovers that the thief has something far more dangerous in mind - for he's marked Vivian as his next target.

My review...

This novel kind of continues on from Devour, but could easily be read as a standalone novel. Again not a keeper, but an enjoyable read.

Devour by Melina Morel

2009-08-14T14:28:00.003+01:00

What the blurb says...

A spellbinding debut, paranormal thriller

A Werewolf...
A vampire...
And the woman who wants them both.

The dashing Pierre du Montfort is a werewolf who's never had trouble hiding his cursed heritage. But now with his dark secret about to be unleashed, he's willing to do anything-and savage anyone-in order to stay alive...

Beautiful and intrepid werewolf hunter Catherine Marais has no qualms about her destiny. Nothing will stop her from destroying the last Montfort werewolf. Not even Ian Morgan-the 200-year-old vampire whose electrifying touch could tempt Catherine to indulge in a forbidden darkness from which she may never return...

My review...

A great standalone novel, it's not a keeper for me but I enjoyed reading it!

First Blood by Susan Sizemore et al

2009-08-14T14:14:00.003+01:00

What the blurb says...

Four all-new stories of forbidden passion and dark desire.

You never forget your first blood...Susan Sizemore returns to the universe of her Laws of the Blood novels with a sizzling story of the relationship between a vampire enforcer and a werewolf.

Erin McCarthy’s Sasha Checkikov flees the bright lights and dangerous slayers of Vegas for New Orleans, where she is saved by a vampire haunted by his past—and hungry for passion.

Set in the Vampire Babylon world, Chris Marie Green’s story puts the bond between twin female vampires to the test when one of them falls for her prey.

Meljean Brook’s vampire Annie Gallagher needs help to save a young human girl, but she doesn’t expect the help to come from the FBI agent she loved—and had to give up— when she was transformed.

My review...

“Cave Canem” is a story set in Susan Sizemore’s ‘Laws of the Blood’ novels. We get a twofer starring both a vampire and a werewolf who have to team up and work together to overcome an ancient threat that’s reappeared. The sparks between these two could light up Las Vegas, especially once they quit fighting each other. Extra points for the cute Hellhounds.

Erin McCarthy returns to New Orleans with “Russian Roulette” a tale of a former slayer turned vampire who is about to find out why a bitter vampire has got to be the world’s worst ex-girlfriend…especially when you’re attracted to the object of her desire!!

From Chris Marie Green’s ‘Vampire Babylon’ world, “Double the Bite” is an intense disturbing retake on good and evil, and nature vs nurture when she pens the tale of twin sister vampires. Can good overcome evil and how far would you go to protect a new love…from your evil twin. Very dark, very deep, and a riveting read.

“Thicker Than Blood” is the final story from Meljean Brook and a new twist on enduring love and whether or not some sins can ever be forgiven. Strangely uplifting for an urban fantasy, paranormal story.

This anthology was hard to get through as the 'worlds' needed some advance knowledge, I seemed a bit out of depth with this collection.

On the Prowl by Karen MacInerney

2009-08-14T14:11:00.001+01:00

What the Blurb says...

On the outside, Sophie Garou is living every woman’s dream: she has beauty, brains, and a big-time position in Austin’s’s most respected accounting firm (not to mention a very sexy, very successful new mysterious boyfriend). There’s one thing, though, that she’d rather keep under wraps: Sophie is a werewolf, which can get her in a whole lot of trouble.

Sophie’s life gets a little more hairy when her long-estranged father, Luc, arrives in the Live Music Capital to attend the werewolves’ annual Howl and reconnect with his daughter. Luc’s plans quickly fall apart after he’s accused of murder and arrested by his archrival Wolfgang, leader of the Houston pack (and one notoriously dirty dog). Wolfgang drools at the thought of Luc’s impending execution, but Sophie won’t let her father die without a fight. Determined to prove his innocence, she and her friends set out to find the real killer. Along the way, Sophie must deal with taboo attractions, Machiavellian intrigues, sinister agendas, and hair-raising betrayals.

My Review...
I really am getting into this series. Sophie is a rocking wimpy[ish] werewolf solving a crime that is nothing to do with her [well, is it?] to make her life easier. Second in the series and well worth a read.

Prom Nights from Hell by Meg Cabot et al

2009-08-14T14:01:00.004+01:00

What the Blurb says...

In this exciting collection, bestselling authors Meg Cabot (How to Be Popular), Kim Harrison (A Fistful of Charms), Michele Jaffe (Bad Kitty), Stephenie Meyer (Twilight), and Lauren Myracle (ttyl) take bad prom nights to a whole new level—a paranormally bad level. Wardrobe malfunctions and two left feet don't hold a candle to discovering your date is the Grim Reaper—and he isn't here to tell you how hot you look.

From angels fighting demons to a creepy take on getting what you wish for, these five stories will entertain better than any DJ in a bad tux. No corsage or limo rental necessary. Just good, scary fun.

My review...

I love Anthologies it's a great way to find some new authors to worship!

Michele Jaffe gives scary a twist of humor in her story "Kiss and Tell," in which Miranda, blessed (or maybe cursed) with superpowers, takes it upon herself to protect a 14-year-old chauffering charge named Sibby. Sarcasm and a roller derby outfit, however, might not be enough for Miranda to keep Sibby safe from a potential murder.

If you're a fan of Stephenie Meyer's TWILIGHT, then you'll love "Hell on Earth." What looks like your normal prom becomes a jumbled mess of broken jewelry, ripped dresses and destroyed romances thanks to the new girl, Sheba, who's really a 186-year-old demon in disguise. But will Sheba's meddling older sister keep the prom from being anything less than perfectly hellish?

If you love the classic horror stories, then flip straight to "The Corsage" by Lauren Myracle, a retelling of W.W. Jacobs's "The Monkey's Paw." Frankie wishes for Will to ask her to the prom while holding a corsage she bought from a Juicy Couture-clad fortune teller. You know how the saying goes, though: Be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it. Frankie's wish comes true, and now Will is just dying to ask her to the prom.

For a twist on the Grim Reaper tale, look at "Madison Avery and the Dim Reaper" by Kim Harrison. It's bad enough that Madison's date only takes her to the prom out of pity, but then the guy she leaves with kills her and completely botches her death. Now she's somewhere between human and ghost, relying on a stolen amulet to keep her solid.

And for those of you who are diehard vampire fans, open to page one and start reading "The Exterminator's Daughter" by Meg Cabot. Vampires are alive, well, living in New York and taking Mary's best friend Lila to the prom. Mary, a vampire exterminator with her very own crossbow, is determined to save Lila. With Dracula in disguise at her high school, will Mary's prom completely suck?

Howling at the Moon by Karen MacInerney

2009-08-14T13:53:00.003+01:00

Finished on March 9th 2009.

What the Blurb says...

Romance is about to get a little hairy.

Sophie Garou seems to have it all: a great job at a prestigious accounting firm, a closet that rivals a Nordstrom showroom, and a terrific boyfriend who isn’t afraid to use the “M” word. There’s just one little itty-bitty problem: Sophie is a werewolf—and her time of month has a whole new meaning.

Needless to say, life among yummy flesh-and-blood humans is no piece of steak . . . er, cake!, but regular doses of wolfsbane tea and a mother who runs a magic shop have helped Sophie keep her paranormal pedigree under wraps. Still, when a sexy, golden-eyed werewolf prowls into town, Sophie finds herself struggling to keep her animal impulses in check—not to mention trying to keep things on track with her super hot (and super human) lawyer boyfriend. What’s more, someone is threatening to expose Sophie for what she really is. And when her mother is accused of selling a poison-laced potion, Sophie must sniff out a culprit before the fur hits the fan.

My review...

First in a new series. I'd heard alot of not great reviews, but wanted to see for myself if it was any good. And I really enjoyed it alot, Sophie is a likeable character. This will be a series I will follow with pleasure.

Pride by Rachel Vicent

2009-08-14T12:55:00.003+01:00

Finished March 4th 2009.

What the Blurb says...

Here's hoping cats do have nine lives...

I’m on trial for my life. Accused of infecting my human ex-boyfriend—and killing him to cover up the crime. Infecting a human is one of three capital offenses recognized by the Pride—along with murder and disclosure of our existence to a human.

I’m two for three. A goner.

Now we've discovered a rogue stray terrorizing the mountainside, hunting a wild teenage tabbycat. It's up to us to find and stop him. With my lover Marc's help, I think I can protect the vulnerable tabby from both the ambitious rogue and the scheming of the territorial council.

If I survive my own trial…

My review...

This series just keeps getting better and better, Faythe and Marc are great characters that are well written. Third in the series.

The Devil's Due by Jenna Black

2009-08-14T12:53:00.001+01:00

Finished March 2nd 2009.

What the blurb says...

POSSESSION WAS NEVER THIS MUCH FUN.

Trust or die, That's the choice Morgan Kingsley, exorcist, is given by the gorgeous rogue demon who's gotten inside her. The truth is, Morgan has dozens of reasons not to trust anyone, from the violence that torched her house and killed her father to a love-life that's left her questioning her relationship with her erstwhile boyfriend, Brian. But Lugh, a King among demons, won't take no for an answer. He's prying into her body, mind, and even her sex life. And he's just pulled Morgan into a power struggle that could have devastating consequences for both the human and demon worlds.

But Morgan still has a job to do: Investigate the highly bizarre possession of the son of a wealthy Philadelphia couple. That hunt leads Morgan into a realm of sexual depravity, then a terrifying kidnapping. Now, a woman who makes her living prying demons from their hosts finds her day job colliding with the night: a darkness that is attracting demons of the damnedest sort, including the one who's about to demand his ultimate due.

My review...

Third in the series, and this book to me is the best so far. Morgan has unravelled more of the mystery and you really start to see a bigger scarier picture.

Dancing with Werewolves by Carole Nelson Douglas

2009-08-14T12:47:00.003+01:00

Finished on February 24th 2009.

What the blurb says...

It was the revelation of the millennium: witches, werewolves, vampires and other supernaturals are real. Fast-forward 13 years: TV reporter Delilah Street used to cover the small-town bogeyman beat back in Kansas, but now, in high-octane Las Vegas - which is run by a werewolf mob - she finds herself holding back the gates of Hell itself. But at least she has a hot new guy and one big bad wolfhound to help her out...

My review...
I didn' really 'get' into this book at all, I felt alot was left unexplained and I often felt confused and had to back track to make sure I hadn't missed something.

Welcome to the Jungle by Jim Butcher

2009-08-14T12:42:00.001+01:00

Finished February 23rd 2009.

What the Blurb says...

When the supernatural world goes out of control, there's only one man to call: Harry Dresden, the only professional wizard in the phone book. A launch title in the Dabel Brothers graphic novel series, "Welcome to the Jungle" is an original adventure set in the "New York Times" bestselling Dresden Files universe.

My review...

This is my first foray into the Graphic Novels of the Dresdenverse. And I loved it, it was weird, as most first experiences are, but I came to love it. It's interesting to see the imaginations of Harry, in my own minds opinion he looks completley different. Not sure I would go this way again, I like my own imagination more :)

One SIlent Night by Sherrilyn Kenyon

2009-08-14T12:40:00.002+01:00

Finished on February 17th 2009

What the Blurb says...

While the world carries on unawares, Stryker, who leads an army of demons and vampires, is plotting an all out onslaught against his enemies--which, unfortunately for us, includes the entire human race.

To avenge his sister, Stryker prepares to annihilate the Dark-Hunters. But things go awry when his oldest enemy returns.

Enter his ex-wife. Zephyra. Just when he thought nothing could stop him, he's now embroiled in a centuries old war with a shrew who gives new meaning to pain and a shrew who is the only woman he's ever really loved.

My review...

Read this out of sync with the series, this is 14th in the Dark Hunter series. It's a great read, bit dissapointing after reading 'Acheron' as it was so thick, it only took me a day to read this one.

Men of the Otherworld by Kelley Armstrong

2009-08-14T12:35:00.003+01:00

Finished on February 16th 2009.

What the blurb says...

As a curious child, Clayton didn’t resist the bite—he asked for it. But surviving as a lone child werewolf was more than he could manage—until Jeremy came along and taught him how to straddle the human-werewolf worlds, gave him a home…and introduced him to the Pack. So begins this volume, featuring three of the most intriguing members of the American Pack—a hierarchical founding family where bloodlines mean everything, and each day presents a new, thrilling, and often deadly challenge. For as Clayton grows from a wild child to a clever teen who tests his beloved mentor at every turn, he must learn not only to control his animal instincts, but to navigate Pack politics—including showing his brutal arch nemesis, Malcolm, who the real Alpha is...

My review...

This is the first novella released by Kelley, it contains the previously released online short stories 'Infusion', 'Savage' and 'Ascension' and a never published before tale narrated by Jeremy. I loved having a printed version of the short stories, I had read them before.

Acheron by Sherrilyn Kenyon

2009-08-14T12:30:00.004+01:00

Finished on February 14th 2009.

What the Blurb says...

From the World of the Dark-Hunters comes the most anticipated book to date...

Eleven thousand years ago a god was born. Cursed into the body of a human, Acheron endured a lifetime of hatred. His human death unleashed an unspeakable horror that almost destroyed the earth. Brought back against his will, he became the sole defender of mankind.

Only it was never that simple...

For centuries, he has fought for our survival and hidden a past he never wants revealed.

Now his survival, and ours, hinges on the very woman who threatens him. Old enemies reawaken and unite to kill them both.

War has never been more deadly... or more fun.

My review...
15th Book in the Dark Hunter series, this one has been much awaited. And what a book, when this huge parcel arrived on my desk, I was confused. It is by far the thickest DH book published, it's huge. And it's soooo detailed and packed with Ash-ness. Lovely book, sad tale. Could be read as a standalone, but everything makes more sense when you start at the beginning.

My Favourite Witch by Annette Blair

2009-08-14T12:27:00.004+01:00

Finished February 8th 2009.

What the Blurb says...

After catching her jock-fiancee in bed with her sister, Kira Fitzgerald has opted for a new start, working for charity at The Pickering Foundation. Imagine her delight when she discovers that her new boss is also a jock. Imagine the jock's delight when he discovers that his new coordinator is an honest to goddess witch, of the spell-casting, penis-withering variety.

Because the jock's grandmother is their boss, and a matchmaker, not only do they have to work together, they have no choice but to share living quarters as well. Thank the Goddess Kira knows a few magic curses to keep the sexy-as-hell jock from rattling her nerves.

Jason Pickering Goddard has uttered a few curses himself, without the magic, at his bum leg, the result of a car accident that ended his hockey career--temporarily, he hopes--and at his grandmother who's roped him into helping save The Pickering Foundation's school for boys. Jason knows the doctors are wrong, and it's just a matter of time before he's back on the ice. But the only ice he sees coming for the moment is from Kira Fitzgerald, his new Coordinator of Special Events.

My review...

This is the second book in the Accidental Witch series, not my normal choice of book. It was a bit more obvious in this book, nice to see Melody and Logan back from the first in this series.

The Kitchen Witch by Annette Blair

2009-08-14T12:22:00.003+01:00

Finished February 6th 2009.

What the Blurb says...

When Salem, Massachusetts TV Producer, Logan Kilgarven, needs a sitter, his mysterious new downstairs neighbor comes highly recommended. But when Melody Seabright opens her star-studded door, Logan knows she's just the kind of woman who can knock him back on his bad-boy ass.

With showmanship, magic spells, sex appeal, and a dynamite concept--THE KITCHEN WITCH--the culinary challenged siren cons her way into hosting her own cooking show. Logan's boss is charmed, his son is in love, and Logan is in lust. Maybe she really is a witch....

Amid cooking disasters and cooking lessons, hot sexual encounters, and fighting the heat--in and out of the kitchen--Logan learns to see beyond the wacky witch to the woman beneath, while Melody is surprised to find herself worthy of love.

My review...

Not my normal choice of a read, I needed something to fill the witchy part of the 999 challenge. This series came up on eBay [again!] and purchased the whole series. It was fun and a pleasant read.

At Grave's End

2009-08-14T12:18:00.002+01:00

At Grave's End by Jeaniene Frost. Finished February 3rd 2009.

What the Blurb says...

Some Things Won't Stay Buried ... At Grave's End

It should be the best time of half-vampire Cat Crawfield's life. With her undead lover Bones at her side, she's successfully protected mortals from the rogue undead. But though Cat's worn disguise after disguise to keep her true identity a secret from the brazen bloodsuckers, her cover's finally been blown, placing her in terrible danger.

As if that wasn't enough, a woman from Bones's past is determined to bury him once and for all. Caught in the crosshairs of a vengeful vamp, yet determined to help Bones stop a lethal magic from being unleashed, Cat's about to learn the true meaning of bad blood. And the tricks she's learned as a special agent won't help her. She will need to fully embrace her vampire instincts in order to save herself – and Bones – from a fate worse than the grave.

My review...

This is the 3rd Book in the Night Huntress series. Cat and Bones have really developed as Characters. I love this series very much. It's just so well written and engrossing. Can't wait for 'Destined for an Early Grave'

Moon in the Mirror

2009-08-14T12:12:00.003+01:00

Moon in the Mirror by P.R. Frost. Finished January 31st 2009.

What the Blurb says...
Theresa Noncoire was a successful fantasy writer. But Tess had another career as well, trained by the Sisterhood of the Celestial Blade Warriors to fight demonic incursions into our world. Teamed with a mischievous imp called Scrap, she's returned home after saving the world, only to discover that demonic trouble has followed her right to her own doorstep...

My review...
The second book in the Tess Noncoire series, follows on from 'Hounding the Moon'. Tess Noncoire and her imp, Scrap dive into another adventure with a return from Donovan Estevez and his family. It took a while to get into this book, only because the time spent out of the 'verse, it started off quite fast and I had to remember what had happened prior to this. You get to know more about Tess' family including the witchy moonfeather.

The Devil You Know

2009-08-14T12:09:00.003+01:00

The Devil You Know by Jenna Black. Finished on January 22nd 2009

What the Blurb says...

The beautiful. The bad. The Possessed.

Some people worship them. Some people fear them. And some people—like Morgan Kingsley—go up against them toe-to-toe, flesh-to-flesh, and power against power. An exorcist by trade, Morgan is one of the few humans with an aura stronger than her possessor, even though her demon can tease her body senseless. She's also a woman who has just discovered a shocking truth: everything she once believed about her past, her identity, may have been a lie…

With a family secret exploding around her and with a full-scale demon war igniting, Morgan is a key player in an unsettled world. Then a rogue, sociopathic demon enters her life with a bang. His name is The Hunter. And since she is the prey, Morgan has only one choice: to hunt The Hunter down—no matter what heartbreaking truths she uncovers on the way…

My review...

This book continued on from Devil Inside, a really great book. It picks up almost immediatley and gets straight into the action. Really struggled to put this book down, sneak reading constantly :)

The Devil Inside

2009-08-14T12:01:00.004+01:00

The Devil Inside by Jenna Black. Finished on January 15th 2009

What the Blurb says...

POSSESSION. MURDER. MAYHEM.
LET THE GAMES BEGIN….

Exorcism isn’t a job, it’s a calling—and a curse. Just ask Morgan Kingsley, a woman who has a stronger aura than any demon. Or so she thought. Now, in a pair of black leather pants and a kick-ass tattoo, Morgan is heading back to Philadelphia after a nasty little exorcism—and her life is about to be turned upside down…by the demon that’s gotten inside her.

Not just any demon. Six feet five inches of dark, delicious temptation, this one is to die for—that is, if he doesn’t get Morgan killed first. Because while some humans vilify demons and others idolize them, Morgan’s demon is leading a war of succession no human has ever imagined. For a woman trying to live a life, and hold on to the almost-perfect man, being possessed by a gorgeous rebel demon will mean a wild ride of uninhibited thrills, shocking surprises, and pure, unadulterated terror…

My review...

This is a new series for me, I had heard a few good and bad reviews. Saw a copy on eBay for a reasonable price so thought I'd give it a go. I really really enjoyed this book, the series has a really good premise and can't wait to read more from this author.

A Certain Slant of Light

2009-08-14T11:55:00.003+01:00

A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb. Finished on January 8th 2009.

What the Blurb says...

In the class of the high school English teacher she has been haunting, Helen feels them: For the first time in 130 years, human eyes are looking at her. They belong to a boy, a boy who has not seemed remarkable until now. And Helen--terrified, but intrigued--is drawn to him. The fact that he is in a body and she is not presents this unlikely couple with their first challenge. But as the lovers struggle to find a way to be together, they begin to discover the secrets of their former lives and of the young people they come to possess.

My review...

This was a book bought on a recommendation, it was an eBay purchase. It stood on my TBR pile for a long time before I got around to reading it. It fits quite well into me 999 challenge. I didn't think I would get 'in' to the book to start with, almost put it down on a few occasions, but on the third chapter, I finally got into the swing of it. A bittersweet read, the ghosts are selfish and not realising in all the excitement of new love and refreshing experiences that they may be causing a lot more grief. Written very well and it was a beautiful read.

The Accidental Demon Slayer

2009-08-14T11:50:00.004+01:00

The Accidental Demon Slayer by Angie Fox. Finished on January 3rd 2009.

What the Blurb says...

It’s never a good day when an ancient demon shows up on your toilet bowl…

For Lizzie Brown, that’s just the beginning. Soon her hyperactive terrier starts talking, and her long-lost biker witch Grandma is hurling Smuckers jars filled with magic. Just when she thinks she’s seen it all, Lizzie learns she’s a demon slayer – and all hell is after her.

Of course, that’s not the only thing after her. Dimitri Kallinikos, a devastatingly handsome shape-shifting griffin needs Lizzie to slay a demon of his own. But how do you talk a girl you’ve never met into going straight to the underworld? Lie. And if that doesn’t work, how dangerous could a little seduction be…?

My review...

I picked up this book on an Amazon Recommendation and my OH bought it for me as an xmas present. I loved this book from start to finish. Lizzie not only kicks ass, she is also witty and smart. Grandma is fab, she really is so fun and wacky a real treasure and pleaseant contradiction to Lizzie. Angie has written a great first book to a new series, can't wait to get hold of 'The Dangerous Book for Demon Slayers'.

My Paranormal 999 Challenge

2009-04-09T13:07:00.006+01:00

Well the challenge is to read 9 books in 9 different categories, all read in 2009.

You choose your own categories.... but you must have 9 categories and they must be paranormal....my choice of categories are…

Anthologies - DONE

Demons - DONE

Hot under the collar - DONE

Miscellaneous - DONE

Police/PI/Detective - DONE

Shapeshifters - DONE

Vampires - DONE

Witches and Wizards - DONE

Young Adult's - DONE

Just post on the Yahoo Group or Library Thing and let us know how you're doing and the books you choose for your categories!

These are the books I have read so far! I will update this list when I have finished another book…

Anthologies

1. Prom Night’s from Hell by Meg Cabot et al

2. First Blood by Susan Sizemore et al

3. Over the Moon by Angela Knight et al

4. Mammoth Book of Vampire Romance by Trisha Telep et al

5. Mammoth Book of Paranormal Romance by Trisha Telep et al

6. On the Prowl by Patricia Briggs et al

7. Strange Brew by P.N. Elrod et al

8. Mean Streets by Jim Butcher et al

9. Huntress by Christine Warren et al

Demons

1. Moon in the Mirror by P.R. Frost

2. The Accidental Demon Slayer by Angie Fox

3. The Dangerous Book for Demon Slayers by Angie Fox

4. The Devil Inside by Jenna Black

5. The Devil You Know by Jenna Black

6. The Devil’s Due by Jenna Black

7. Night Shift by Lilith Saintcrow

8. Hunter’s Prayer by Lilith Saintcrow

9. To Hell and Back by Lilith Saintcrow

Hot under the Collar

1. Acheron by Sherrilyn Kenyon

2. One Silent Night by Sherrilyn Kenyon

3. Mistral’s Kiss by Laurell K. Hamilton

4. Lick of Frost by Laurell K. Hamilton

5. Witch Fire by Anya Bast

6. Witch Blood by Anya Bast

7. Witch Heart by Anya Bast

8. Witch Fury by Anya Bast

9. Mona Lisa Awakening by Sunny

Miscellaneous

1. Ghost of a Chance by Kate Marsh

2. City of Souls by Vicki Pettersson

3. Prey by Rachel Vincent

4. Leader of the Pack by Karen MacInernay

5. Dark Magick by Care Tiernan

6. Awakening by Cate Tiernan

7. Spellbound by Cate Tiernan

8. The Calling by Cate Tiernan

9. Changeling by Cate Tiernan

Police/PI/Detective

1. Frostbitten by Kelley Armstrong

2. Blue Diablo by Ann Aguirre

3. Red by Jordan Summers

4. Poltergeist by Kat Richardson

5. Sins and Shadows by Lyn Benedict

6. Second Skin by Caitlin Kittredge

7. Magic Strilkes by Ilona Andrews

8. Bloodfever by Karen Marie Moning

9. Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning

Shapeshifters

1. Men of the Otherworld by Kelley Armstrong

2. Dancing with Werewolves by Carole Nelson Douglas

3. Brimstone Kiss by Carole Nelson Douglas

4. Howling at the Moon by Karen MacInernay

5. On the Prowl by Karen MacInernay

6. Leader of the Pack by Karen MacInernay

7. Pride by Rachel Vincent

8. Prey by Rachel Vincent

9. Maneater by Thomas Emson

Vampires

1. At Graves End by Jeaniene Frost

2. Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost

3. I’m the Vampire, that’s Why by Michele Bardsley

4. Don’t talk back to your Vampire by Michele Bardsley

5. Retribution by Jeanne C Stein

6. Once Bitten, Twice Shy by Jennifer Rardin

7. Another One Bites the Dust by Jennifer Rardin

8. Biting the Bullet by Jennifer Rardin

9. Bitten to Death by Jennifer Rardin

Witches and Wizards

1. The Kitchen Witch by Annette Blair

2. My Favourite Witch by Annette Blair

3. The Scot, the Witch and the Wardrobe by Annette Blair

4. Welcome to the Jungle by Jim Butcher

5. Turn Coat by Jim Butcher

6. White Witch, Black Curse by Kim Harrison

7. Book of Shadows by Cate Tiernan

8. The Coven by Cate Tiernan

9. Blood Witch by Cate Tiernan

Young Adult

1. A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb

2. City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

3. Marked by PC & Kristen Cast

4. Betrayed by PC & Kristen Cast

5. Chosen by PC & Kristen Cast

6. Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

7. Pretties by Scott Westerfeld

8. Specials by Scott Westerfeld

9. The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong