TITLE: City of Lights
SERIES #: Outcast #1
CHARACTERS: Tiger
AUTHOR: Keri Arthur
PUBLICATION DATE: January 5, 2016
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The first in an all-new futuristic fantasy series from Keri Arthur—the New York Times bestselling author of the Souls of Fire novels.
When the bombs that stopped the species war tore holes in the veil between this world and the next, they allowed entry to the Others—demons, wraiths, and death spirits who turned the shadows into their hunting grounds. Now, a hundred years later, humans and shifters alike live in artificially lit cities designed to keep the darkness at bay….
As a déchet—a breed of humanoid super-soldiers almost eradicated by the war—Tiger has spent her life in hiding. But when she risks her life to save a little girl on the outskirts of Central City, she discovers that the child is one of many abducted in broad daylight by a wraith-like being—an impossibility with dangerous implications for everyone on earth.
Because if the light is no longer enough to protect them, nowhere is safe…
REVIEW:
I love Keri Arthur and was so excited about this new series! As always, Keri’s book features a strong, independent female lead that can kick ass! I enjoyed the new world Keri built and am excited about this series and all that she’s put into it. As with any new book, the world building is huge…and at times I found it a little hard to follow. However that is typical of a new series. A strong start to the new year for Keri Arthur.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & PENGUIN GROUP Berkley, NAL / Signet Romance, DAW in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: The Cruelest Cut
CHARACTERS: Jack Murphy
AUTHOR: Rick Reed
PUBLICATION DATE: 11/01/10
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
When a killer plays mind games with a cop, There Are No Rules.
The first victim is attacked in her home. Tied to her bed. Forced to watch every unspeakable act of cruelty–but unable to scream. The second murder is even more twisted. Signed, sealed, and delivered with a message for the police, stuffed in the victim’s throat. A fractured nursery rhyme that ends with a warning: “There will be more.” For detective Jack Murphy, it’s more than a threat. It’s a personal invitation to play. And no one plays rougher than Jack. Especially when the killer’s pawns are the people he loves. . .
REVIEW:
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com
First let me say if you don’t like evil personified do not pick up this book. This is not for the light hearted. It can be hard to read in some spots but the thrill part of it will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Some of it is light like the play between Jack and Liddell so it breaks up a bit of the harshness but it is still something you need to be in the mood to read. And ready to have a dark cloud around you when you do.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: Born of Betrayal
SERIES #: The League: Nemesis Rising #10
CHARACTERS: Galene & Fain
AUTHOR: Sherrilyn Kenyon
PUBLICATION DATE: November 3, 2015
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Years ago, family loyalty caused Fain Hauk to give up everything he loved: His military career. His planet. His fiancée. Even his name.
Now decades later, everything has changed. He’s built a new life out of the ashes of his old, and he’s vowed to never let anything threaten his loved ones again.
But when old enemies align themselves with new ones, he’s caught in the middle of a brutal war. And when fate throws his former fiancée back into his world and she has her own agenda that includes taking his head for what he did to her years ago, more than just his life is at stake. The fate of the Ichidian universe and that of his brothers-in-arms hangs in the balance. Winner take all.
It’s kill or be killed, and never has the battle been more fierce…
Or more fun, in Born of Betrayal, the next League: Nemesis Rising novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Sherrilyn Kenyon!
REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts I have been a fan of the League series for over 10 years; I am so excited that Sherrilyn Kenyon has really decided to give this series more priority than in previous years. This book is kind of a follow-up to the previous release in this series, Born of Defiance, and follows the parents of Talyn Batur (the hero in the previous book). I loved Galene and Fain together. I’ll just say – the scene where they see each other for the first time after a number of years is one of my favorite book scenes of all time! I dropped the book and laughed out loud! Galene is a great character with tons of personality, just like her son Talyn and Fain just breaks my heart, I love him! I really enjoyed being able to follow this story and family over the two-book arc – so many things happen!
We get all – and I do mean ALL – of our previous series favorites in this book. Literally everyone and their families make an appearance. Though the series is difficult to follow, because the cast of characters is so large and there are so many worlds and species to keep track of, I have found that I will continue to love it anyway. The individual stories themselves are strong enough that the fact that I often am lost in the names, and alliances and references, it doesn’t take away from the joy of the current story. Unless you’re mind is an information vault, it will be hard to follow this series without asking yourself, “Who was that again?” “Whose kid is that?” “Why do I remember something about this character in the past?” But if you’re a fan of great character development, intense drama, and truly intriguing story lines, you will still love this series.
I do have one complaint about the book and it contains a spoiler, so you have been warned! I truly dislike how she is rewriting Jullien’s character. While taking a villain and reforming him into a likable character is not new for Kenyon, I don’t buy the way this is being done. Kenyon is completely changing the history of the series, but the way she just threw this in the book seemed really random. It came out of nowhere and we’re all just expected to agree that this is a thing…I dunno, I’m not sold. Also, geez, the way Kenyon played with death in this book was a little exhausting. However, that will not prevent me from following every book in this series. The story line is open and I’m excited to see where the next books go!
Disclaimer:
I purchased a copy of this book. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: Whisper of Sin
SERIES #: Psy-Changeling #0.6
CHARACTERS: Emmett & Ria
AUTHOR: Nalini Singh
PUBLICATION DATE: February 25, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
“Please note that Whisper of Sin is a reissue. It was first published in the multi-author anthology, Burning Up. This is the worldwide stand-alone ebook release for those who wanted to buy only this novella from the anthology.
For those of you who have Wild Invitation, this novella wasn’t in that collection.” – Nalini Singh
A PSY-CHANGELING NOVELLA BY “THE ALPHA AUTHOR OF PARANORMAL ROMANCE” (Booklist)
New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh returns to her phenomenal Psy-Changeling world as a woman in peril finds herself in the arms of a dangerously beautiful shapeshifter…
San Francisco is under threat from a violent gang…a gang that has no idea who they’re challenging. The DarkRiver pack of leopard changelings has already claimed the city as their territory, and they will fight with wild fury to protect its residents. Emmett, a lethally trained leopard soldier, isn’t about to let outsiders muscle in on his home ground—especially when they target a human named Ria.
Emmett has one word for the smart stranger with her curvy body and tough spirit: mine.
Possessive, dominant, unyielding in his demands and desires, Emmett is unlike anyone Ria has ever before met. But while the sexy leopard changeling makes her body ignite, his kisses molten and his touch addicting, she’s no pushover and she has a few demands of her own. This leopard has met his match…
REVIEW:
As always Ms. Singh writes a story that makes me fall in love with the Psy-Changeling series all over again.
Whisper of Sin is a prequel to the series. This book happens before Lucas, before Clay, before Dorian, before Judd (who is my favorite), before Hawke and before Kaleb. It was nice to get back to the beginning for me. I have been obsessed with the series since book one. Emmett and Ria’s story is sweet, spicy and quick. It was a lot of fun to see how these two got together. It was great to see some of the other characters too before we know them so closely.
If you are a fan of Ms. Singh’s series and you have not picked up this story you need too. If you are new to this series now is a perfect time to pick up a copy of Whisper of Sin and learn why I love this series so much.
Disclaimer:
I purchased this book and this review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: Anything For You
SERIES #: Blue Heron #5
CHARACTERS: Jessica & Connor
AUTHOR: Kristan Higgins
PUBLICATION DATE: 01/01/15
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Before you get down on bended knee…
…you should be pretty darn sure the answer will be yes. For ten years, Connor O’Rourke has been waiting for Jessica Dunn to take their on-again, off-again relationship public, and he thinks the time has come. His restaurant is thriving, she’s got her dream job at Blue Heron Vineyard—it’s the perfect time to get married.
When he pops the question, however, her answer is a fond but firm no. If it ain’t broke, why fix it? Jess has her hands full with her younger brother, who’s now living with her full-time, and a great career after years of waitressing. What she and Connor have is perfect: friends with an excellent benefits package. Besides, with her difficult past (and reputation), she’s positive married life isn’t for her.
But this time, Connor says it’s all or nothing. If she doesn’t want to marry him, he’ll find someone who does. Easier said than done, given that he’s never loved anyone but her. And maybe Jessica isn’t quite as sure as she thinks…
REVIEW:
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com
It pains me to say this but I really just didn’t enjoy this story at all. The layout is a bit weird to me. The first chapter is Jessica turning down a proposal from Connor but after that we get chapter upon chapter of the years since they met and today. And honestly, Jessica is a slut (the word used in the book) and sleeps with anyone and everyone with a.. well you know. Connor seems like a wuss who never got any of daddy’s attention and so he is too timid for me. Don’t get me wrong, he is one of the good guys but why he wants to be with Jessica is beyond me.
The only redeeming quality that Jessica has is her love and care of her brother who was both with fetal alcohol syndrome. His character is written so perfectly and is so easy to picture him and his problems and how Jessica devotes herself to him. I also enjoyed the relationship between Connor and his twin sister.
I guess I just didn’t want the couple to work out. Let Jessica be miserable someplace else and have Connor live his happily ever after with someone who deserves him.
I am sad this series has ended and especially in a book that I didn’t enjoy as much as the others but that takes nothing away from the author and how much I enjoy her books and I look forward to her next adventure.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: City of Lights
SERIES #: Outcast #1
CHARACTERS: Tiger
AUTHOR: Keri Arthur
PUBLICATION DATE: January 5, 2016
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The first in an all-new futuristic fantasy series from Keri Arthur—the New York Times bestselling author of the Souls of Fire novels.
When the bombs that stopped the species war tore holes in the veil between this world and the next, they allowed entry to the Others—demons, wraiths, and death spirits who turned the shadows into their hunting grounds. Now, a hundred years later, humans and shifters alike live in artificially lit cities designed to keep the darkness at bay….
As a déchet—a breed of humanoid super-soldiers almost eradicated by the war—Tiger has spent her life in hiding. But when she risks her life to save a little girl on the outskirts of Central City, she discovers that the child is one of many abducted in broad daylight by a wraith-like being—an impossibility with dangerous implications for everyone on earth.
Because if the light is no longer enough to protect them, nowhere is safe…
REVIEW:
Tiger our main character has survived things that no one should ever have to survive. In City of Lights Tiger finds herself exposed to a world that she has hid from for over a 100 years.
I was very excited when I saw that Ms. Arthur was coming out with a new series. So of course when I had a chance to review I jumped at it.
City of Lights was not at all what I had expected. I enjoyed the story, but there is a LOT of world building in this first book of the series. Which is not unusual but at times the storyline dragged for me. I did really like Tiger and her little ones Bear and Cat.
I really enjoyed the very end of the story (cliff hanger and all) and I am looking forward to see where Tiger goes from here.
Keri Arthur fans will/should enjoy this new world that she has created.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & PENGUIN GROUP Berkley, NAL / Signet Romance, DAW in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: Hope Smolders
SERIES #: Hope #0.5
CHARACTERS: Will Griffin & Jane Kline
AUTHOR: Jaci Burton
PUBLICATION DATE: February 25, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
A HOPE NOVELLA
“Jaci Burton does raw, passionate romance like no other” (Joyfully Reviewed), and the New York Times bestselling author of Hope Ignites and the hot new Play-by-Play novel Straddling the Line proves it again in this novella of second chances…
Jane Kline is a struggling divorcee and single mother with a social life on hold. Not only does Jane not have the time to date anyone, she’s not even going to consider making herself vulnerable to another man after being deserted by her husband. That’s why Will Griffin, her ex’s former best friend, takes her totally by surprise.
What would such a hot and sexy wild card see in a harried mother juggling two kids and two jobs? For starters, everything Jane no longer sees in herself. As she dares to take the flirtation to the next step, Jane finds herself back where she never wanted to be—falling for another man. Now it’s up to Will to convince Jane that she has everything he wants in a woman, and that the second time around can be the best time of all.
Includes previews of Jaci Burton’s new Hope novel Hope Ignites and her new Play-by-Play novel, Straddling the Line
Hope Smolders previously appeared in Hot Summer Nights
REVIEW:
Don’t ask me why I took so long to read this book because I don’t have a reason. I am in love with Ms. Burton’s Hope series and I am so glad that I did finally pick up this novella!!
I really enjoyed Will & Jane’s journey. Both are just great. Even if Jane is stubborn and determined to do it all on her own. I could tell you everything that happens but what fun would that be. (hint it wouldn’t be any fun).
If you are a Hope fan and you have not read this novella yet? You should and I think you will enjoy it very much. If you are new to this series you don’t have to start here but I think you should.
Disclaimer:
I purchased this book and this review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: Suddenly Sorceress
CHARACTERS: Ivie & Jack
AUTHOR: Erica Lucke Dean
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/30/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
PMS can be a real witch.
Ivie McKie isn’t your run-of-the-mill kindergarten teacher. After an encounter with a horny goat, followed by a confrontation with her lying, cheating fiancé, Ivie is shocked when the big jerk suddenly transforms into a skunk—the black and white furry variety.
Enlisting the help of her shopaholic friend Chloe and sexy club magician Jackson Blake, Ivie is forced to play a literal game of cat and mouse as she races against the clock to change her ex back before she’s arrested for his murder.
With every new spell comes a fresh wave of sexual desire, drawing Jack further into Ivie’s troubles—her panties, the car, the kitchen, and assorted seedy bathrooms along the way.
Ivie soon discovers what every witch worth her spell book knows: There’s nothing worse than a bad case of Post Magical Syndrome.
REVIEW:
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com
DNF Ok so here is the thing. I started reading this story and realized right away that it is dated in some parts so I went back and looked and while it was written only 2 years ago it seems a bit longer. But that was ok. The other thing is it is written in first person. Another weird thing to get used to but again it was ok. The problem was it just wasn’t funny to me.
This is a book of stupid comedy and I don’t like it when I watch movies so I am not sure why I would like it reading a book. I honestly couldn’t finish it. I read about 50 pages and decided I had a bunch of books I would rather read.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
TITLE: Smoldering Hunger
SERIES #: Dark Kings #8
CHARACTERS: Darius & Sophie
AUTHOR: Donna Grant
PUBLICATION DATE: December 29, 2015
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
TEMPTING FATE
Darius is back. Edinburg thought it had seen the last of this seductive Dragon King, but that was before Darius found something worthwhile. He just can’t stay away from the impossibly beautiful Dr. Sophie Martin-even though he knows that a passion this strong could prove detrimental…for them both.
CRAVING DESIRE
Sophie tried to forget her encounter with smoking-hot Darius to no avail. He’s in her dreams, tempting her. But her association with Darius catches the attention of another, putting her
in mortal danger. . .and Darius, who has vowed to protect her, is her only hope. But can she trust the notorious dragon shapeshifter? The only thing she knows for sure is that she cannot resist him..
REVIEW:
3.75 Hearts Another good installment in the Dark Kings series. I really enjoyed Darius and Sophie’s story. Both have been hurt in the past and both believe that there can never be a happy ending for them. It was great to finally learn more about Darius, his past and his relationship with Rhi.
I will say that Rhi is driving me nuts. I am so much stress and anxiety over her and her journey. Smoldering Hunger takes an already complicated story and thrown more fuel on the fire. I am scared, nervous and excited to see what happens next. I have to believe that it will all work out in the end. But getting to the end might just kill me.
Oh and Con is on my bad list again.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Donna Grant in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: A Fantasy Medley 3
SERIES #: Iron Druid Chronicles #0.3
AUTHOR: Kevin Hearne, Laura Bickle, Aliette DeBodard & Jacqueline Carey
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/31/15
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
In “Goddess at the Crossroads,” Kevin Hearne shares a thrillingly memorable episode from the past of his popular Iron Druid Chronicles hero Atticus O’Sullivan, revealing how one night’s dark encounter with the cult of Hecate served as inspiration for Shakespeare’s witches in the Scottish play.
With “Ashes,” Laura Bickle revisits Detroit arson investigator and powerful spirit medium Anya Kalinczyk as she, her five-foot-long salamander familiar Sparky, and Hades’ Charon pursue a destructive fire elemental named the Nain Rouge through the city’s festival in his dubious honor.
“The Death of Aiguillon” finds Aliette de Bodard exploring an episode sixty years prior to the start of her latest novel, The House of Shattered Wings, in which the survivors of an ongoing magical conflict in Paris eke out a grim existence, and one woman’s wish for a better life is granted at a terrible price.
And in “One Hundred Ablutions,” Jacqueline Carey, author of the much-beloved Kushiel’s Legacy series, tells the tale of Dala—a young woman chosen by her people’s overlords to be an exalted slave among slaves—and of the twining in her life of ritual, rebellion, and redemption.
REVIEW:
3.75 Hearts I read this one for Kevin Hearn’s Goddess at the Crossroads
As with all of Kevin’s IDC stories it is so much fun to watch and learn more about Atticus’ past. It was a lot of fun to listen to Atticus tells Granuaile and Oberon his adventure with Mr. William Shakespeare. And of course it is great to hear Oberon’s take of this harrowing tell. Silly dog.
As one who has listened to all of the IDC via audio (Thanks Luke Daniels) it is sometimes hard to read these short stories because I miss Luke reading to me. Maybe Luke will get his hands on this story and read it to me (hint, hint Luke). I can’t wait for January 2016 for the next installment of the IDC series.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & Subterranean Press in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: Dream of You
SERIES #: Waiting for You #4.5
CHARACTERS: Colton Anders & Abby Erickson
AUTHOR: Jennifer L. Armentrout
PUBLICATION DATE: June 23, 2015
ORDER LINKS: Amazon
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Abby Erickson isn’t looking for a one-night stand, a relationship, or anything that involves any one-on-one time, but when she witnesses a shocking crime, she’s thrust into the hands of the sexiest man she’s ever seen – Colton Anders. His job is to protect her, but with every look, every touch, and every simmering kiss, she’s in danger of not only losing her life but her heart also.
REVIEW:
Loved this story. Abby is the girl that we can all relate too. She is dealing with heartbreak and learning to live again. She is also learning that what she sees is not what everyone else sees.
Colton Anders is the man that we all dream of. He is amazingly good looking, humble ;), will bring you pastries in the morning and will fix your broken window on his day off. But what is best about Colton is that he loves with his whole heart!!
These two were great!!
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Evil Eye Concepts & in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: Headed For Trouble
CHARACTERS: Ian Campbell & Neve McKay
AUTHOR: Shiloh Walker
PUBLICATION DATE: December 29, 2015
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
SHE’S A SMALL-TOWN GIRL WITH BIG DREAMS.
Nine years ago, Neve McKay fled her small Southern town and disapproving family to seek a career in the big city. Now she’s finally coming home – and hoping for a fresh start. But the relationship that shattered her world still haunts her. And even among her nearest and dearest, she doesn’t feel safe.
CAN THIS BAD BOY BE THE ANSWER TO HER PRAYERS?
Ian Campbell is a pure Scottish muscle – as hard and handsome as they come. But when Neve walks into his bar, his heart melts . . . and he vows to have this gorgeous and somewhat vulnerable woman in his life – for better or for worse. What is Neve’s tragic secret? And how can Neve expect Ian to protect her, when doing so could put his own life at risk? The only thing Ian knows for sure is that he will do whatever it takes to keep her out of harm’s way – and in his loving arms.
REVIEW:
4.25 Hearts Neve’s story is heart breaking. She was so young and navie when she left home and sadly she had to learn a few of life’s lessons the hard way. But she has finally returned home, but she knows that it will only be a matter of time before trouble comes knocking on her door again.
Another great start of a series by Ms. Walker. I really enjoyed reading about the McKay family. In Headed for Trouble we meet Moira (the oldest), Brannon (the middle) and Neve (the baby). While we get to see each of the McKay’s and learn a little bit about each of them and the issues that they are having, but in Headed for Trouble we focus Neve.
While Neve’s story is heartbreaking. It was great to see her grow and learn how to trust. But had to be kinda easy with a hunky man like Ian Campbell. Because we all know that deep down we all want some hot scottish, kilt wearing guy to sweep us off our feet. I loved Ian. He is great and totally perfect for Neve.
I enjoyed this story a lot, even if it gain me anxiety while I was reading 🙂
I am looking forward to the next installment in this series.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & St. Martin’s Press in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
TITLE: City of Lights
