S - Authors
Brandy Slaven
Reclaiming Kendall (White Trash Trilogy #3) by
Shadow of Deception (Sky Cities Book 2) by
Heart of Tartarus (Sky Cities #1)
Cross my Heart (Iris Boys #4)
Leap of Faith (Iris Boys #3)
Power & Choice (Iris Boys #2)
Now or Never (Iris Boys series Book 1)
by Lucy Smoke ****REVIEW
Harlow's life isn't easy. As a high school senior she has too much responsibility. Her bi-polar mother is dying from cancer. Her older brother took off leaving her to handle everything. She goes to school keeping all A's, works long hours at a diner, is the sole caretaker for her mom, pays the bills and takes care of the house. She really needs a break and a long nap, but she keeps going. She is not one to complain. This is her life. One late night shift she has two customers that send her life in a new direction. They along with two other young men are a team working for a mysterious organization, Iris and they offer her a job. Sort of. They can't tell her anything about Iris or exactly what the job is, only that it could offer her many opportunities, help her financially, and she could help others. She must accept the job with the unknowns and they must decide that she is a good fit. Until then, no answers. But first things first, they need her to go to a party. Sounds simple enough and it's not like she has any better options.
This book is similar to the Ghost Bird series by CL Stone, but the characters are quite different. The lead female is more mature and confident. She's strong, selfless, loving towards her mother in an extremely difficult situation. She's carried such a heavy burden for so long and only allows herself to show vulnerability with the guys. The tenderness and protectiveness the guys show towards her are endearing. The team is a strong balance of guys. Knix is the team leader, their strength; Texas is the techie with an adorable silly streak; Marv is cultured and smooth; Bellamy is the easygoing one that holds them all close. The side characters didn't add much except for being plot devices. I didn't get the bestie vibe at all from Erika. I do have questions about Greyson. Why do the guys really hate him? Is he going to join the team or disappear?
This book caught me by surprise. I was concerned about the similarities to GB. Imitations aren't appealing. However, I did really enjoy it. The story was entertaining, the characters likable. I didn't get the prologue, but it's no big deal. I am looking forward to more of Harlow and her Iris Boys.
Kaydence Snow
CL Stone
This book caught me by surprise. I was concerned about the similarities to GB. Imitations aren't appealing. However, I did really enjoy it. The story was entertaining, the characters likable. I didn't get the prologue, but it's no big deal. I am looking forward to more of Harlow and her Iris Boys.
Kaydence Snow
Vital Found (Evelyn Maynard Trilogy #2)
by
Variant Lost (Evelyn Maynard Trilogy #1)
by
CL Stone
Love's Cruel Redemption (The Ghost Bird #12) by
After finally removing Sang from her family and taking a brief rest, the team is heading back to Ashley Waters to continue their original case for the Academy. This time Sang goes back as an obvious member of the team. As the case heats up the school falls further into chaos. The same can be said for the team as Jessica and Erica, Kota's family catch Nathan and Sang together. Misunderstandings, confusion, hurt feelings all ensue and Nathan takes the blame to protect the team from making decisions that they are not ready to consider yet. There is a price to pay for the secrets and lies, however. As key players in the school and their masked enemy Volto close in, the team finds themselves in the crosshairs. At a time they should be closer than ever, they are plagued by doubts at every level. Family first or will they fall apart?
Black and Green (The Ghost Bird #11)
Black and Green, finally! It seems like the wait was forever. That's how much I love Sang and the Team. We pick up immediately where the last book ended; Sang and the boys are making a hurried trip home after learning that her father has returned and is searching for her. No one is happy. The boys were in the middle of a fight about the plan, and everyone is now tense about Sang going back into her house. Once Sang arrives home the surprises keep coming. The situation is worse than she imagined and all she wants is to be back out of the house and with her guys. The guys are working on it and trying not to let her feel alone, but the stress is hanging heavy.
This book is told is dual POV from Sang's perspective and from Dr. Green's. This is a nice change. I do love getting in the guy's mind. It's a well written, if slow paced book. It all takes place in a couple of days. There is so much angst on this book; virtually no fun. The guys are fighting; fighting about how to help Sang, feeling conflicted about the future and the plan. Sang is weak, physically and mentally. I understand. The girl has PTSD, but being bombarded with her fears, uncertainty, and general unhappiness is tough. I keep hoping for her to step outside of herself for more than a minute and start the path to 'woman'ing up. She's emotionally immature. Yet she's still likable; she's sweet and has the ability to bounce back to a good mood fairly quickly.
As much as I love this series, it's time for the plot to move forward. There was no resolution to any of the problems. We got a band-aid fix (which was amusing and I would have liked more of) for the main issue in this book. Still nothing long-term. Please let's not do this again in the next book! There was no Volto, no McCoy. Worse, much worse, we had very little guy time. I was disappointed. The only character development was with new characters and Dr. Green. And to be honest, Dr. Green's character turned out to be much more immature than I had imagined. I decided it made sense; he has been focused on the Academy and becoming a doctor. Still, I assume that he has had interaction with girls. His goofiness over Sang seems in conflict with how he's been portrayed before. I would also feel more comfortable if Sang wasn't 16. I don't have a problem with the age difference, however, Dr. Green and Mr. Blackbourne have adult lives with employment and reputations that can be damaged.
I know it sounds like this is a negative review. It's not meant to be. I did enjoy the book. I love Kintsugi. What a fantastic message. I also love, love, love the notebook. Letters, questions, thoughts, and answers. Can't wait for more. I was so happy to have anything new with these characters. I only wish the focus had split more with Sang and the guys, rather than focus on Sang. I do understand that this book may be the needed set-up for the remaining books. I'm also willing to have a time jump if it advances the characters to a point close where all relationships can be pursued. I want to work on the plan. I want LOTS of one on one time with each guy. Several were basically overlooked in this book. It's a large group, but since each guy is special, they all deserve time. I also want group time. I want for the guys to remember the love they have for each other and not to fight over a girl. Or if they are going to fight, get it all out. Be open and honest, resolve the issue. Have fun! No relationship is worth having, if you aren't enjoying yourself. The sneak peak after the book's conclusion gives me hope that the next book will focus on the entire team and the plan. So begins the wait for Loves Cruel Redemption.
First Kiss (The Ghost Bird #10)
by C.L. Stone ****REVIEW
First Kiss is my favorite of the series so far. I do have to say however, there have been editing problems since book 1, but they were ridiculous in this book. Readers have to be forgiving of so many typos.
Christmas lived up to my hopes. Gift-wrapping, on-line shopping, stolen kisses, Christmas day itself. I enjoyed it all. It was so nice to step outside the school. The camping was a nice change too. I was disappointed with how little time Sang and the boys were together, but it made sense. I loved each interaction we did get with them. I switch favorites every page. One minute it's North or Silas, the next Victor, then Kota.....
This book finally starts Sang moving forward. She's introduced to the Academy. As much as she wants to be in the Academy, she is so scared. More than anything she wants to be with her team and she's going to have to fight for them. She shows strength we haven't seen before, and then increased vulnerability. Her PTSD is addressed during this time and handled in a creative and perfect way. There's finally some screw-ups by the boys. Before this, they were seeming a bit too good to be real. Actual jealousy problems surface, voices are raised, doubts expressed. About time! I have wanted complete team communication for a while now. I only wish everyone had been present.
This book ended with a cliffhanger that does not bode well for Sang, and the boys are all in a bad way. Sang has to be close to her total breaking point. I read all 9 of these books together and now for the first time, I have to wait for the next one. I am looking forward to it since we seem to be picking up steam.
This book is told is dual POV from Sang's perspective and from Dr. Green's. This is a nice change. I do love getting in the guy's mind. It's a well written, if slow paced book. It all takes place in a couple of days. There is so much angst on this book; virtually no fun. The guys are fighting; fighting about how to help Sang, feeling conflicted about the future and the plan. Sang is weak, physically and mentally. I understand. The girl has PTSD, but being bombarded with her fears, uncertainty, and general unhappiness is tough. I keep hoping for her to step outside of herself for more than a minute and start the path to 'woman'ing up. She's emotionally immature. Yet she's still likable; she's sweet and has the ability to bounce back to a good mood fairly quickly.
As much as I love this series, it's time for the plot to move forward. There was no resolution to any of the problems. We got a band-aid fix (which was amusing and I would have liked more of) for the main issue in this book. Still nothing long-term. Please let's not do this again in the next book! There was no Volto, no McCoy. Worse, much worse, we had very little guy time. I was disappointed. The only character development was with new characters and Dr. Green. And to be honest, Dr. Green's character turned out to be much more immature than I had imagined. I decided it made sense; he has been focused on the Academy and becoming a doctor. Still, I assume that he has had interaction with girls. His goofiness over Sang seems in conflict with how he's been portrayed before. I would also feel more comfortable if Sang wasn't 16. I don't have a problem with the age difference, however, Dr. Green and Mr. Blackbourne have adult lives with employment and reputations that can be damaged.
I know it sounds like this is a negative review. It's not meant to be. I did enjoy the book. I love Kintsugi. What a fantastic message. I also love, love, love the notebook. Letters, questions, thoughts, and answers. Can't wait for more. I was so happy to have anything new with these characters. I only wish the focus had split more with Sang and the guys, rather than focus on Sang. I do understand that this book may be the needed set-up for the remaining books. I'm also willing to have a time jump if it advances the characters to a point close where all relationships can be pursued. I want to work on the plan. I want LOTS of one on one time with each guy. Several were basically overlooked in this book. It's a large group, but since each guy is special, they all deserve time. I also want group time. I want for the guys to remember the love they have for each other and not to fight over a girl. Or if they are going to fight, get it all out. Be open and honest, resolve the issue. Have fun! No relationship is worth having, if you aren't enjoying yourself. The sneak peak after the book's conclusion gives me hope that the next book will focus on the entire team and the plan. So begins the wait for Loves Cruel Redemption.
Christmas lived up to my hopes. Gift-wrapping, on-line shopping, stolen kisses, Christmas day itself. I enjoyed it all. It was so nice to step outside the school. The camping was a nice change too. I was disappointed with how little time Sang and the boys were together, but it made sense. I loved each interaction we did get with them. I switch favorites every page. One minute it's North or Silas, the next Victor, then Kota.....
This book finally starts Sang moving forward. She's introduced to the Academy. As much as she wants to be in the Academy, she is so scared. More than anything she wants to be with her team and she's going to have to fight for them. She shows strength we haven't seen before, and then increased vulnerability. Her PTSD is addressed during this time and handled in a creative and perfect way. There's finally some screw-ups by the boys. Before this, they were seeming a bit too good to be real. Actual jealousy problems surface, voices are raised, doubts expressed. About time! I have wanted complete team communication for a while now. I only wish everyone had been present.
This book ended with a cliffhanger that does not bode well for Sang, and the boys are all in a bad way. Sang has to be close to her total breaking point. I read all 9 of these books together and now for the first time, I have to wait for the next one. I am looking forward to it since we seem to be picking up steam.
Sound of Snowfall (The Ghost Bird #9.1)
by C.L. Stone ****REVIEW
by C.L. Stone ****REVIEW
The Healing Power of Sugar (The Ghost Bird #9) ****REVIEW
This book was far better than The Other Side of Envy. This one actually contained a bit of humor. Of course, it's Luke's book, so it had to. Parts were unexpected. Sprinkles for one. The mistrust in Luke was understandable, but unacceptable by all. Family should know better. Have I mentioned lately how I love Mr. Blackbourne? His birthday was a powerful scene. Thanksgiving was a lovely touch. It's nice to see that side of the Academy. Touch football has never read so entertaining. I fell more in love with the boys. Silas! Black Friday cuteness. Now I can't wait for Christmas. My biggest complaint is that we're still dealing with the Ashley Waters nonsense. I'm sick of dealing with corrupt principals. How can one man have so much dirt on half the teachers and students in the school! Can we solve at least part of the mystery? At least there was a bit of justice after the school spiraled out of control. Still, this storyline is nowhere near resolved and I don't feel that we are making any progress. At least Volto seems to be serving a purpose again. This angle could be so much more than it is.
The Other Side of Envy (The Ghost Bird #8) by C.L. Stone ***REVIEW
Touch of Mischief (The Ghost Bird #7.5)
House of Korba (The Ghost Bird #7)
Push and Shove (The Ghost Bird #6)
Drop of Doubt (The Ghost Bird #5)
by C.L. Stone ****REVIEW
Drop of Doubt is the 5th in The Ghost Bird Series. We are moving along slowly. The team is still facing one danger after another, bad guys coming, going, and mysteries at every turn. I would like a little less school mess and more Sang-Boy time. Volto has become a true enemy and the mystery surrounding him is very entertaining.
Forgiveness 
Liar
I think that this series has great potential and plan to continue with the series, however, I do have some issues with it so far. The writing is solid enough but at times can be a bit repetitive.
There is a big cast of characters to get to know immediately. I love the boys, each and every one. I love how each one is immediately defined as a separate character within the group dynamic. However, Kayli is definitely not my favorite female lead. She is incredibly self-centered, immature, too temperamental, shows poor judgment, and is wishy-washy. The only redeeming quality she has is her love for her brother and desire to protect him.
The story is a bit far fetched at times but serves its purpose to introduce everyone and allow for immediate intimacy. Truly my favorite parts of the book had little to do with the intrigue and everything to do with one on one interactions between Kaylie and each boy. I'm hoping we get more character time instead of action in future books.
There is a big cast of characters to get to know immediately. I love the boys, each and every one. I love how each one is immediately defined as a separate character within the group dynamic. However, Kayli is definitely not my favorite female lead. She is incredibly self-centered, immature, too temperamental, shows poor judgment, and is wishy-washy. The only redeeming quality she has is her love for her brother and desire to protect him.
The story is a bit far fetched at times but serves its purpose to introduce everyone and allow for immediate intimacy. Truly my favorite parts of the book had little to do with the intrigue and everything to do with one on one interactions between Kaylie and each boy. I'm hoping we get more character time instead of action in future books.
Favored (Among the Favored #1)
| Kuni is a country built on honor but the kingdom has become tainted with corruption and enemies are threatening war at the mountain borders. When the old emperor dies his heir sent most of the older court away determined to find new people with open minds. People who he can trust to stand by him to save the country. Mizuki was orphaned as a child. She has lived alone, farming, looked after by a former teacher. Her heritage offers her a chance to apply for a court position and with the assistance of a surprising supporter, a member of the former court, Mrs. Satsu she is going to register and be tested to find if her place is on the court. Mizuki manages to gain the additional support of her escort Sota and two former classmates, a trader Ryuu and Shima. It's obvious that's there's something special about Mizuki. Those who meet her see her beauty clearly; they willingly offer their love and loyalty. She will need these people around her because the competition at court is deadly. Literally. Favored is a wonderful start to a new fantasy/adventure RH series by the incomparable CL Stone. Very different from her other works but equally enjoyable. Magic, dragons, and ghosts. The world-building is amazing. No detail is overlooked; landscaping, architecture, clothing, make-up, food. History and cultural background are equally detailed. It creates a vivid backdrop for likable, well-developed characters. Mizuki's character growth is remarkable. She goes from a girl working to survive, lost to the world to a confident, loving, accomplished, conscientious, caring young lady. The changes inside are as notable as the outward polishing of her beauty. The men are all devoted and worthy of her attention. Each offering a needed talent; protection, strength, bargaining. They help her believe in herself and by offering themselves to her, they receive her love in return. This sense of security allows her to show strength and conscience that may save them all. There is an innocence to this book even with the intrigue and evil. The sense of honor, duty, and purity are evident throughout. I loved the ending and look forward to future books. |
CM Stunich
The Secret Girl (Adamson All-Boys Academy #1) by
The Envy Of Idols (Rich Boys of Burberry Prep #3) by
Bad, Bad Blue Bloods (Rich Boys of Burberry Prep #2) by
Filthy Rich Boys (Rich Boys of Burberry Prep #1) by
I Was Born Ruined (Death by Daybreak MC #1) by
Gray and Graves: (The Three Courts of Faerie Book 1) by
George is one of the undead but not one of the sexy ones like a vampire or ghost. She's a zombie. Murdered, she was brought back by a necromancer and now the only way she can exist with the living is to use glamour magic made with faerie blood. When their blood donor is killed, George, her necromancer-boyfriend Corey, his ghost and wraith go into Faerie in search of another fae donor. An unexpected capture and judgment that will change Faerie take place before they head home with a blue fae in tow. Amadan is convinced that George is important to the House of Gray and Graves, a fae court between the Light and Dark Courts that has been empty for years. He is only the first of the Gray Court to arrive seeking George. But not everyone looking for George has her best interest at heart. The Coalition of the Righteous Living want her dead. So does the powerful fae Gadrael who killed her in her last life. This is not the life she wanted!
Haunted (The Academy of Spirits and Shadows #2) by C.M. Stunich ****REVIEW
Brynn of Haversey, double-blessed spirit whisperer, beautiful, clumsy girl, collector of ghosts. Brynn has been assigned the task of performing a reincarnation spell to bring the crown prince, Air back to life. While she's at it she needs to also bring back his cousin Eli, Prince Dyre, Professor Spicer, and the thief Talon. Of course, she has to rescue Talon from the belly of the wolves first. In essence, she needs to bring her entire ghost harem back to life, not to mention deal with Dyre's shadow twin Trubble and decide if she wants the beautiful griffon, Vex as her mate all while attending her first-year classes at college. If she does manage to successfully perform the spell, her own life may very well be forfeit. Seems as if that should be enough but there is something going on with the Queen and the Kingdom. Something just isn't right.
Haunted picks up exactly where book one left off. Brynn has been sleep spelled and can only be awakened by true love's kiss. Enter Vex! He is a definite highlight of this book. His adoration for Brynn and his strength are admirable. We also get to see a new side to Trubble this time. What a great surprise. I love it! Hopefully, this is a permanent addition to the harem. But with the focus on Vex and Trubble we don't get much time with Ari and Eli, not nearly enough! Everything seems okay with Eli, but there's a growing distance between Ari and Brynn. This didn't make sense since he is her first love, her best friend. It felt like the spotlight was more on Brynn's lust for her living guys than on true love. It's painful and worrisome and I feel that now Ari may be keeping something from her. I need their relationship to remain strong. Please restore time to Ari and Brynn. Spicer and Dyre get a bit more story. Spicer is keeping his secrets close to the vest and Dyre seems like a lost, confused soul. Again, hopefully, we find out more about them during the next book. Finally, Talon is absent after the wolf attack but he is never far from Brynn's mind. Felixa and Professor Tiukka had way too much storyline.
I enjoyed this book, especially Brynn's time with Vex and Trubble and I feel like a real scobberlotcher for complaining but as I mentioned I was disappointed with the little time spent with the other guys. No steamy times but even worse, no conversations. I missed their times together. There's just not enough overall relationship time and little progression. I was also dismayed and surprised with how little time was spent focusing on the goal; successfully performing the spell. I would have liked to see more forward movement. It seems as if every available moment would be dedicated to restoring her lovers to the living. As Trubble likes to say, a strong woman needs a strong harem. It seemed as if this book may have lost direction.
The ending is traumatic. Feather losing language traumatic! Even though you knew that it was coming, it didn't make anything easier. I'm not sure how much more Brynn can take before breaking. I'm not sure what happens next for Brynn and her ghost harem. I may have been slightly disappointed in this book but it may have been because I had such high expectations. CM Stunich is brilliant; one of my favorite authors. I think that this story is wildly creative. I loved Brynn, Ari, and Eli so much in book 1. I didn't expect for them to virtually disappear in book 2. I did fall in love with Vex and Trubble so all was not lost. I haven't lost faith in this series in the least bit. I look forward to Shadowed. I hope that it gets back on track. Forget about the classes, forget about jealous females; focus on Brynn, Eli, Vex, Dyre, Spicer, Talon, and Trubble. Remind me how good it is between Brynn, Ari, and Eli. Keep Vex and Trubble close. And give me a reason to care about Dyre, Spicer, and Talon or set them free.
Haunted picks up exactly where book one left off. Brynn has been sleep spelled and can only be awakened by true love's kiss. Enter Vex! He is a definite highlight of this book. His adoration for Brynn and his strength are admirable. We also get to see a new side to Trubble this time. What a great surprise. I love it! Hopefully, this is a permanent addition to the harem. But with the focus on Vex and Trubble we don't get much time with Ari and Eli, not nearly enough! Everything seems okay with Eli, but there's a growing distance between Ari and Brynn. This didn't make sense since he is her first love, her best friend. It felt like the spotlight was more on Brynn's lust for her living guys than on true love. It's painful and worrisome and I feel that now Ari may be keeping something from her. I need their relationship to remain strong. Please restore time to Ari and Brynn. Spicer and Dyre get a bit more story. Spicer is keeping his secrets close to the vest and Dyre seems like a lost, confused soul. Again, hopefully, we find out more about them during the next book. Finally, Talon is absent after the wolf attack but he is never far from Brynn's mind. Felixa and Professor Tiukka had way too much storyline.
I enjoyed this book, especially Brynn's time with Vex and Trubble and I feel like a real scobberlotcher for complaining but as I mentioned I was disappointed with the little time spent with the other guys. No steamy times but even worse, no conversations. I missed their times together. There's just not enough overall relationship time and little progression. I was also dismayed and surprised with how little time was spent focusing on the goal; successfully performing the spell. I would have liked to see more forward movement. It seems as if every available moment would be dedicated to restoring her lovers to the living. As Trubble likes to say, a strong woman needs a strong harem. It seemed as if this book may have lost direction.
The ending is traumatic. Feather losing language traumatic! Even though you knew that it was coming, it didn't make anything easier. I'm not sure how much more Brynn can take before breaking. I'm not sure what happens next for Brynn and her ghost harem. I may have been slightly disappointed in this book but it may have been because I had such high expectations. CM Stunich is brilliant; one of my favorite authors. I think that this story is wildly creative. I loved Brynn, Ari, and Eli so much in book 1. I didn't expect for them to virtually disappear in book 2. I did fall in love with Vex and Trubble so all was not lost. I haven't lost faith in this series in the least bit. I look forward to Shadowed. I hope that it gets back on track. Forget about the classes, forget about jealous females; focus on Brynn, Eli, Vex, Dyre, Spicer, Talon, and Trubble. Remind me how good it is between Brynn, Ari, and Eli. Keep Vex and Trubble close. And give me a reason to care about Dyre, Spicer, and Talon or set them free.
Spirited (The Academy of Spirits and Shadows #1) by C.M. Stunich *****REVIEW
Brynn of Haversey is a spirit whisperer. She has the ability to see and speak to the dead, she can send them to the afterlife. Brynn is a beautiful, curvy small half-breed angel with wings twice her size causing her to be a walking accident. Two left feet doesn't begin to describe her endearing clumsiness. She's an average whisperer who has applied to the prestigious Royal College each year since she reached the age to attend. Each year she has been turned down and this is her last chance. After banishing 2 nasty spirits and retrieving the ghost of a former whisperer on a personal mission for the Queen, Brynn now has her admittance. However, it didn't come as expected. She will be attending with her handler, Jasinda and 3 ghosts who have attached themselves to her. Her lifelong best friend and crush, Crown Prince Air, his cousin the former whisperer Elijah, and a palace thief who holds the Queen's secrets, Talon. Once at the College, Brynn picks up 2 more ghosts. She has also caught the attention of a Traveller's Guild Master, a Griffin, Vexer. While attending classes as a first-year Brynn has a secret assignment directly from the Queen. She is to successfully cast a resurrection spell. Originally, it was to bring back the Queen's family, which now includes the Crown Prince, but also includes Brynn's "boyfriends". To further complicate her crazy life she now knows that she received two blessings, not one from the gods. She has no idea how to use the second blessing and it puts a deadly target on her back.
Imaginative. Creative. Unique. Amusing. Whimsical. Sexy. Touching. Heartfelt. Exceptional. These are only a few of the adjectives I can use to describe this new series by CM Stunich. This is easily one of my favorite books by this author and since I love her work, this is truly saying something. The characters are fantastic. Brynn has so much potential. I love the tiny little, top-heavy whisperer. Each time she causes a mini-disaster I smile. I grew attached to her as quickly as the ghosts. Her capacity for love, her self-doubt, her heartbreak, her loyalty to Jas, her hatred for Felixa (me too), her amusement for dry jokes, and her desire for her men all resonated with me. I share her desperation to pull off the resurrection spell. Air, Eli, and Vex are delicious. I love the history Brynn and Air share even if I am not a fan of some of his behavior. Eli gives me the warm fuzzies. Everything about this arrogant man appeals to me. And Vex seems to be male/griffin perfection. I'm not sure how to feel about the others yet but they certainly make it interesting!
Beautiful Survivors (Five Forgotten Souls #1) by C.M. Stunich ****STAR REVIEW
Anyone who is familiar with my reviews knows how much I love Reverse Harem (RH) books. This genre has grown and evolved so much over the past year. We have some very talented authors and there is an incredible variety of stories within the RH world now; sci-fi, fantasy, paranormal. CM Stunich has earned herself a spot in my heart as the best at producing a gritty, realistic RH. Her books have a sense of rawness that cannot be touched. Her Rock-Hard trilogy was excellent, but I believe that Five Forgotten Souls is going to be much better.
Merit Burden is the product of the foster care system. She has seen the ugly side of life; unwanted, unloved. But she has made a family for herself with a few of the other boys in the system. They started out as five small children together. One disappeared over the years, but the other four have stayed together when not in a placement. Once like her brothers, Merit now feels something different for them. Then one horrific night changes everything and the five are on the run.
"I would rather be a beautiful survivor than an ugly ignorant." Merit. What a powerful statement. What a powerful young lady. She has strength, beauty, feistiness, intelligence. She's tough with a hint of softness. The guys, Nash, Gunner, Maddox, and Hitch are complex characters as well. Nash keeps everyone's mood up; Maddox with his failing eyes, so observant; Gunner, so protective, yet shielded himself; and Hitch, so damaged and dark. I hope Finny can be saved because Hitch isn't too likable. They are all so strong, yet so vulnerable concerning Merit. She doesn't even realize that she's the heart of their family. She gives them hope and reason.
This is a well written, gritty book. There is a dark streak of violence that could trigger someone who has been abused. It's a realistic scene, not exploitative, and very necessary to the series, but it is brutal. The characters are not always well behaved; there is underage drinking, smoking, and sex. This book isn't for everyone. However, I loved it and would have rated it a 5 star had it been longer. I can't wait until the next one!
Merit Burden is the product of the foster care system. She has seen the ugly side of life; unwanted, unloved. But she has made a family for herself with a few of the other boys in the system. They started out as five small children together. One disappeared over the years, but the other four have stayed together when not in a placement. Once like her brothers, Merit now feels something different for them. Then one horrific night changes everything and the five are on the run.
"I would rather be a beautiful survivor than an ugly ignorant." Merit. What a powerful statement. What a powerful young lady. She has strength, beauty, feistiness, intelligence. She's tough with a hint of softness. The guys, Nash, Gunner, Maddox, and Hitch are complex characters as well. Nash keeps everyone's mood up; Maddox with his failing eyes, so observant; Gunner, so protective, yet shielded himself; and Hitch, so damaged and dark. I hope Finny can be saved because Hitch isn't too likable. They are all so strong, yet so vulnerable concerning Merit. She doesn't even realize that she's the heart of their family. She gives them hope and reason.
This is a well written, gritty book. There is a dark streak of violence that could trigger someone who has been abused. It's a realistic scene, not exploitative, and very necessary to the series, but it is brutal. The characters are not always well behaved; there is underage drinking, smoking, and sex. This book isn't for everyone. However, I loved it and would have rated it a 5 star had it been longer. I can't wait until the next one!
Pack Ivory Emerald (The Seven Mates of Zara Wolf #4) by
Zara and her seven mates have settled into the Pairing House, but that's the only thing settled so far during their contribution year. There is a powerful Alpha traitor in their world, vampires are day-walking, working with witches who are eating werewolf flesh. Allies are few and each comes with a price. War is imminent. The werewolves hope lies with the white wolf, her mates, and the return of magic. If they fall, so do the packs.
Zara and her guys have so little time for themselves to explore and deepen their bonds. Zara has to learn how to use her magic, figure out what her tattoo means, stop Allister, and rescue the rest of the missing werewolves. They need to figure out how to stop the vampires and witches. Most important they must stay alive. Zara finds out some huge details about herself. She's not exactly who or what she thought she was. Key pieces of the puzzle start to come together. It's complicated. The past is important and the Forest Spirit becomes a major role. Family is important as well. It is nice to actually feel that Majka and Nikolina are on Zara's side this time instead of posturing for power. Aeron, Harlem, and Whitney play a much smaller role in this book but are still important allies. Faith made multiple appearances but instead of enjoying her in the best friend role I found her presence a nuisance.
I feel the book works best when it focuses on Zara and her mates. The war is a complex storyline and works well giving the book direction but the characters make the book wonderful. Each guy is so fully developed and details continue to be added. The guys are so different yet all incredible. Zara's connection with each is different and rings true. The steamy scenes, especially the forest scene were hot! It's not just about sex even though Zara is justifiably preoccupied with her desires at times. There are sweet moments and so many funny ones. I love the humor injected into the heavy storyline. My only objection to the story was Nic. I would have liked for Zara to pay a little more attention to him. I want him to be truly okay.
The story ends with Zara, her guys, and the girls in a terrible spot. I can't wait to see how they manage to get out of this situation. Pack Ivory Emerald holds answers I need!
Zara and her guys have so little time for themselves to explore and deepen their bonds. Zara has to learn how to use her magic, figure out what her tattoo means, stop Allister, and rescue the rest of the missing werewolves. They need to figure out how to stop the vampires and witches. Most important they must stay alive. Zara finds out some huge details about herself. She's not exactly who or what she thought she was. Key pieces of the puzzle start to come together. It's complicated. The past is important and the Forest Spirit becomes a major role. Family is important as well. It is nice to actually feel that Majka and Nikolina are on Zara's side this time instead of posturing for power. Aeron, Harlem, and Whitney play a much smaller role in this book but are still important allies. Faith made multiple appearances but instead of enjoying her in the best friend role I found her presence a nuisance.
I feel the book works best when it focuses on Zara and her mates. The war is a complex storyline and works well giving the book direction but the characters make the book wonderful. Each guy is so fully developed and details continue to be added. The guys are so different yet all incredible. Zara's connection with each is different and rings true. The steamy scenes, especially the forest scene were hot! It's not just about sex even though Zara is justifiably preoccupied with her desires at times. There are sweet moments and so many funny ones. I love the humor injected into the heavy storyline. My only objection to the story was Nic. I would have liked for Zara to pay a little more attention to him. I want him to be truly okay.
The story ends with Zara, her guys, and the girls in a terrible spot. I can't wait to see how they manage to get out of this situation. Pack Ivory Emerald holds answers I need!
Pack Violet Shadow (The Seven Mates of Zara Wolf #2) by C.M. Stunich ****REVIEW
Zara, The White Wolf, the Alpha-Heir returns in this second book of The Seven Mates of Zara Wolf. Zara and her Alpha Mates stand for every werewolf in North America and they have been assigned the task of finding missing werewolves and either bringing them home or punishing the guilty. What they have discovered so far has been shocking. The natural balance in the paranormal world is off; vampires are walking in the daylight, witches are consuming werewolf flesh, and there is a powerful traitor among the werewolves. It will take Zara and her mates, their magic as well as an unconventional alliance with a faerie princess, a vampire princess, and a powerful witch to face the coming threats.
Zara is one of my all-time favorite werewolves. She's beautiful, strong, loving, kind, brave, and she loves who she is. Her mates and Pack will always be her priority, but she has a human best friend and is open to new alliances. Her heart will be her strongest weapon. She will fight for her last breath to save those she loves. And there's a lot of love around Zara. Her Alpha Mates are magnificent. Nic, Che, Montgomery, Jax, Silas, Anubis, and Tidus are all yummy. Each has a distinct Pack look, a distinct personality, and a distinct appeal. We get to know the guys better and Zara gets to know 5 of them intimately. Zara is a lucky, lucky girl! The three new characters are great additions. I applaud the fact that they are all strong women. Nice touch!
This book is a well-written story with plenty of action and sexy times. There is no author in the Reverse Harem genre that is better than CM Stunich when it comes to writing about sexy times. They are scorching hot. But never diminish the quality of her story by thinking that her books are traditional "Bodice Rippers". There is so much plot in this book that it takes a careful reading to catch everything. This is actually difficult because it's so good that you can't wait to see what happens next. This is such a layered story, so much depth, so many important details. Past actions and influences, greed as a powerful motivator; there is so much intrigue, the danger is so much more extreme than first realized. I can't wait to see how Zara and Her Alpha's manage the coming war. So far they have had limited success, but they are all still together, strengthening their bonds. They have made friends. They have much to fight for. I'm ready for pack Obsidian Gold!
This book is a well-written story with plenty of action and sexy times. There is no author in the Reverse Harem genre that is better than CM Stunich when it comes to writing about sexy times. They are scorching hot. But never diminish the quality of her story by thinking that her books are traditional "Bodice Rippers". There is so much plot in this book that it takes a careful reading to catch everything. This is actually difficult because it's so good that you can't wait to see what happens next. This is such a layered story, so much depth, so many important details. Past actions and influences, greed as a powerful motivator; there is so much intrigue, the danger is so much more extreme than first realized. I can't wait to see how Zara and Her Alpha's manage the coming war. So far they have had limited success, but they are all still together, strengthening their bonds. They have made friends. They have much to fight for. I'm ready for pack Obsidian Gold!
Pack Ebon Red (The 7 Mates of Zara Wolf #1 by C.M. Stunich ****STAR REVIEW
Pack Ebon Red is the first book in CM Stunich's The Seven Mates of Zara Wolf. It does not grab you immediately like her Rock-Hard Beautiful series, but it doesn't take long before you are fully immersed in this wonderful new world.
Zara, the Alpha-Ki of the Ebon Red pack is in line to become the Alpha of all the North America Packs. First, however, she must follow tradition and prove her worth. She must accept her potential mates, fight and defeat all challengers, and conduct a successful hunt. The pairing ritual usually involves just one Alpha-Son, but since the packs are uniting, each pack has sent a son. Her own pack also has a representative, so she has 7 suitors. The pairing will last a year and at the end, she will choose her mate. During the year she and her potential mates will fulfill a Contribution. The chosen Contribution will be to discover the answer to a mystery. Werewolves from every pack are missing. They are to locate the missing werewolves or find out what happened to them.
Zara is a kick-ass female lead. She's smart, clever, strong, kind, and she's certainly no coward. She also has unknown potential to restore the werewolves to their former power. Her men are distinct and diverse. The only quality they seem to share is their hotness. Nic, Anubis, Silas, Monty, Jax, Tidus, and Che. She loves Nic, the Ebon Red, but is sexually attracted to each of the guys. But no insta-love. These will be true pairings. There is underlying tension of all sorts that you know is going to get much worse during the next year.
There is a great deal of suspense; with the missing werewolf investigation, with the formal ceremonies, and with teenage best-friend angst. The attention to detail for the ceremonies is remarkable. This was written in a spectacular fashion. It's a complete and complex were world. So Awesome! The supporting cast is richly developed as well. The Alpha Queen Nikolina is formidable, the Grandmother Alpha Majka is one part terrifying, the other hysterical. Her Croatian insults were fantastic! Zara's youngest brother Hugo was every bit as adorable as her younger sister Avita was awful. The other non-humans; Vampires, Fae, and Witches also had developed characters and histories that added layering to the story.
This is such an elaborate, intricate story with wonderful characters. The balance between romance, action, and mystery is well done. This is such a compelling dynamic with all of the changes in the lives of this mini-pack. They have to learn how to best live and work together. They have to explore their attractions, how best to serve the packs. I can't wait for book 2!!
Zara, the Alpha-Ki of the Ebon Red pack is in line to become the Alpha of all the North America Packs. First, however, she must follow tradition and prove her worth. She must accept her potential mates, fight and defeat all challengers, and conduct a successful hunt. The pairing ritual usually involves just one Alpha-Son, but since the packs are uniting, each pack has sent a son. Her own pack also has a representative, so she has 7 suitors. The pairing will last a year and at the end, she will choose her mate. During the year she and her potential mates will fulfill a Contribution. The chosen Contribution will be to discover the answer to a mystery. Werewolves from every pack are missing. They are to locate the missing werewolves or find out what happened to them.
Zara is a kick-ass female lead. She's smart, clever, strong, kind, and she's certainly no coward. She also has unknown potential to restore the werewolves to their former power. Her men are distinct and diverse. The only quality they seem to share is their hotness. Nic, Anubis, Silas, Monty, Jax, Tidus, and Che. She loves Nic, the Ebon Red, but is sexually attracted to each of the guys. But no insta-love. These will be true pairings. There is underlying tension of all sorts that you know is going to get much worse during the next year.
There is a great deal of suspense; with the missing werewolf investigation, with the formal ceremonies, and with teenage best-friend angst. The attention to detail for the ceremonies is remarkable. This was written in a spectacular fashion. It's a complete and complex were world. So Awesome! The supporting cast is richly developed as well. The Alpha Queen Nikolina is formidable, the Grandmother Alpha Majka is one part terrifying, the other hysterical. Her Croatian insults were fantastic! Zara's youngest brother Hugo was every bit as adorable as her younger sister Avita was awful. The other non-humans; Vampires, Fae, and Witches also had developed characters and histories that added layering to the story.
This is such an elaborate, intricate story with wonderful characters. The balance between romance, action, and mystery is well done. This is such a compelling dynamic with all of the changes in the lives of this mini-pack. They have to learn how to best live and work together. They have to explore their attractions, how best to serve the packs. I can't wait for book 2!!
Moxie (Rock-Hard Beautiful #3)
by C.M. Stunich *****STAR REVIEW
The definition of Moxie is force of character, determination, or nerve. There's nothing mentioned about it being hot, sexy, emotional, sweet or being the perfect ending to the Rock-Hard Beautiful Trilogy. C.M. Stunich's Moxie definitely deserves the second definition. This is the final book for Lilith and the boys of Beauty in Lies. The band and their girl are on the world tour. It seems the shows are the only effortless part of the tour, however. The guys and Lilith have settled into their unique relationship and it's working; making everyone happy in all sorts of combinations. The L word is even being thrown around. Lil has the guys sight-seeing every stop of the tour and the guys are all loving seeing Lil this happy. But there are still problems to be faced; Paxton's parents and fianceé, Muse's past, Mikey's brother Tim, Pax's and Ransom's relationship, Cope's mom. What will happen when the tour is over? Where will Lil live? How will they all be when life returns to normal? All of these issues are addressed and answered. All loose ends are tied up.
If I had a complaint about the book, it would be the fast pace. It only makes sense that it moves quickly since the band is on tour, but I would have liked it to slow down once it was over. More normal time in Seattle would have been awesome. More details, more time with the guys individually and as a group would have been appreciated. I'm greedy this way. Maybe we will get a holiday Novella? Art show, wedding+commitment ceremony, baby??I love that there were no loose ends. Each one of the individual relationships was a focus at some point in the book and the group became stronger because of it. It was good to see the group with lessened pain and angst. Lilith Goode, the once-broken little girl was key to making everyone whole. Everyone has problems; some people just have issues that are more apparent to the world. This belief and her ability to forgive, accept, and empathize were what made her fit perfectly with each of the guys. I loved how she made each one feel special and completely loved. And that they did the same for her. I will miss Lil and her guys from the band.
by C.M. Stunich *****STAR REVIEW
The definition of Moxie is force of character, determination, or nerve. There's nothing mentioned about it being hot, sexy, emotional, sweet or being the perfect ending to the Rock-Hard Beautiful Trilogy. C.M. Stunich's Moxie definitely deserves the second definition. This is the final book for Lilith and the boys of Beauty in Lies. The band and their girl are on the world tour. It seems the shows are the only effortless part of the tour, however. The guys and Lilith have settled into their unique relationship and it's working; making everyone happy in all sorts of combinations. The L word is even being thrown around. Lil has the guys sight-seeing every stop of the tour and the guys are all loving seeing Lil this happy. But there are still problems to be faced; Paxton's parents and fianceé, Muse's past, Mikey's brother Tim, Pax's and Ransom's relationship, Cope's mom. What will happen when the tour is over? Where will Lil live? How will they all be when life returns to normal? All of these issues are addressed and answered. All loose ends are tied up. If I had a complaint about the book, it would be the fast pace. It only makes sense that it moves quickly since the band is on tour, but I would have liked it to slow down once it was over. More normal time in Seattle would have been awesome. More details, more time with the guys individually and as a group would have been appreciated. I'm greedy this way. Maybe we will get a holiday Novella? Art show, wedding+commitment ceremony, baby??I love that there were no loose ends. Each one of the individual relationships was a focus at some point in the book and the group became stronger because of it. It was good to see the group with lessened pain and angst. Lilith Goode, the once-broken little girl was key to making everyone whole. Everyone has problems; some people just have issues that are more apparent to the world. This belief and her ability to forgive, accept, and empathize were what made her fit perfectly with each of the guys. I loved how she made each one feel special and completely loved. And that they did the same for her. I will miss Lil and her guys from the band.
Roadie (Rock-Hard Beautiful #2)
by C.M. Stunich ****STAR REVIEW
Roadie is equally beautiful and painful. C.M. Stunich has created the most incredible assortment of damaged characters possible. Roadie picks up the morning after Groupie ended. Lilith and her Band are in a fragile condition after nearly losing each other for good the night before.
This book is dark and raw. It uses sex as a means of connecting, healing, communicating. The characters are so multi-layered, their traumas so deep. There is pain, pain, pain. Yet there is hope. Healing is beginning. Connections are deepening.
This is an action-packed, sex-drenched, well-written book. The character development from book one is immense. Layers are being peeled back both individually and between the characters, old hurts are being exposed, demons and desires are being faced. Lilith is changing everything for these boys by giving herself to them. And she's getting so much in return. Her bravery in going after what she wants is making the difference. I am addicted to this series. I can't wait for the remainder of the world tour and the trip back home. There's still so much to be faced, so much to be worked out and worked through.
by C.M. Stunich ****STAR REVIEW
Roadie is equally beautiful and painful. C.M. Stunich has created the most incredible assortment of damaged characters possible. Roadie picks up the morning after Groupie ended. Lilith and her Band are in a fragile condition after nearly losing each other for good the night before. This book is dark and raw. It uses sex as a means of connecting, healing, communicating. The characters are so multi-layered, their traumas so deep. There is pain, pain, pain. Yet there is hope. Healing is beginning. Connections are deepening.
This is an action-packed, sex-drenched, well-written book. The character development from book one is immense. Layers are being peeled back both individually and between the characters, old hurts are being exposed, demons and desires are being faced. Lilith is changing everything for these boys by giving herself to them. And she's getting so much in return. Her bravery in going after what she wants is making the difference. I am addicted to this series. I can't wait for the remainder of the world tour and the trip back home. There's still so much to be faced, so much to be worked out and worked through.
Groupie (Rock-Hard Beautiful #1)
by C.M. Stunich ****STAR REVIEW
This is a book built on pain and heartache. It was beautiful in a strange way. It definitely pulls at the heartstrings. I am a RH (Reverse Harem) addict and this book fits nicely into my library!
Lilith is all alone in the world. She just received a text from her uncaring step-mother that her father passed away from cancer. Her mother and sister both died earlier in her life. Her ex-boyfriend is a lying, cheating piece of scum that has left her alone, broke, and recovered from an std. In an attempt to get a little cash she sells concert tickets, but while doing so ends up a contest winner and a VIP at the concert. This changes her entire world.
Beautiful Lies is a rock band with lead singer Pax, drummer Copeland, guitarists Michael, Ransom, and Muse. These boys are all so damaged. Their relationships with one another are volatile, none are involved in a healthy romantic relationship, and their family lives are messed up as well. Pax recruited them all when he recognized their broken spirits. Lilith hooks up with Pax that first night after the concert. She sees his cruelty, lets him use her for sex while she uses him to forget the pain of her father's death. Later that same night she hooks up with 2 more of the band members and the 4th member soon after that. Their pain all responds to the others and together, they start to heal.
I loved the evolution of Lilith. Her claiming of the guys. Her unapologetic taking of what she needed from the guys and lack of guilt over the sex was refreshing. She was not selfish in her taking and wanted to help heal the guys.The sex was just the right amount of steaminess. Muse, Copeland, and Ransom were awesome. Pax was difficult to tolerate at times, and Michael needed to be throttled. Together though, they worked. Octavia, Vanessa, Kevin, and Tim were all easy to hate.
I really enjoyed this book and how they all came together. I can't imagine the group not being together as a whole. I want so much for this to remain RH. I can't choose a favorite guy for Lilith. I look forward to the next leg of the tour!
Beautiful Lies is a rock band with lead singer Pax, drummer Copeland, guitarists Michael, Ransom, and Muse. These boys are all so damaged. Their relationships with one another are volatile, none are involved in a healthy romantic relationship, and their family lives are messed up as well. Pax recruited them all when he recognized their broken spirits. Lilith hooks up with Pax that first night after the concert. She sees his cruelty, lets him use her for sex while she uses him to forget the pain of her father's death. Later that same night she hooks up with 2 more of the band members and the 4th member soon after that. Their pain all responds to the others and together, they start to heal.
I loved the evolution of Lilith. Her claiming of the guys. Her unapologetic taking of what she needed from the guys and lack of guilt over the sex was refreshing. She was not selfish in her taking and wanted to help heal the guys.The sex was just the right amount of steaminess. Muse, Copeland, and Ransom were awesome. Pax was difficult to tolerate at times, and Michael needed to be throttled. Together though, they worked. Octavia, Vanessa, Kevin, and Tim were all easy to hate.
I really enjoyed this book and how they all came together. I can't imagine the group not being together as a whole. I want so much for this to remain RH. I can't choose a favorite guy for Lilith. I look forward to the next leg of the tour!
See No Devils (Trust No Evil #1)
by C.M. Stunich ****REVIEW
Rayne has always seen monsters. She's lived a life of abuse, believing that she was crazy and being medicated. Now it seems that the world(s) is what's crazy and Rayne is fighting to survive. She's supposedly the next Ten-Tei, the Heavenly God and she's literally running from the devil and his demons. But she's no longer alone. She has her knights, her eyes her ears, and her voice, Trick, Crew, and Jensen. She also has her Sanshi, her three Corpses, the spirits born inside her once they are all found and bound to her. Life has suddenly gotten very complicated and very deadly.
Rayne has always seen monsters. She's lived a life of abuse, believing that she was crazy and being medicated. Now it seems that the world(s) is what's crazy and Rayne is fighting to survive. She's supposedly the next Ten-Tei, the Heavenly God and she's literally running from the devil and his demons. But she's no longer alone. She has her knights, her eyes her ears, and her voice, Trick, Crew, and Jensen. She also has her Sanshi, her three Corpses, the spirits born inside her once they are all found and bound to her. Life has suddenly gotten very complicated and very deadly.
Allison and the Torrid Tea Party
(Harem Of Hearts #2) by
Allison's Adventures in Underland (Harem Of Hearts #1) by C.M.Stunich ****REVIEW
Allison's Adventures in Underland (Harem Of Hearts #1) by C.M.Stunich ****REVIEW"It's never too early when you're already late". There is a rabbit hole, Allison is the Alice, this is Underland, not Wonderland. Lewis Carroll told the story to the world, but it wasn't quite accurate. Violence, sex, drugs, and magic make up Underland. It's a land of beautiful, twisted men. It's also in trouble and Alice is the only one who can save it from the darkness. This is a dark reverse harem that will change the way you look through the looking glass forever.
This book is a mindfu**. It takes the original oddities of Alice and Wonderland with its poetry and imagery and turns it on its head. It's brilliantly written. The world building, the character descriptions, the prose are all well thought out. It's intense, beautiful, equally ugly, and deadly. This is a world of magic, but few women. The average marriage ratio is 10 men to 1 woman. Allison is promised 9 husbands in the prophecy. It's a nonsensical land where tea has a kick to it and eggs are red. It's a land of opposites. It holds the balance to the Topside.The characters are complex. No one is totally likable or the total villain. Each is a bit of a mystery, each seems sinful, devious, and delightfully sexy, each seems to be carrying around some damage. The lands are ruled by four kings. Alice is being taken to meet and 'marry' the King of Hearts, although her plan is to get to the Looking Glass to return home. So far we have been introduced to the twin slaves Tweedledum and Tweedledee, riddle-happy Tee and Dee; The White Rabbit, Rab, complete with rabbit ears and moving clock tattoos; The Caterpillar, Lar with his beautiful wings; The Duke of Northumbria, North with his horns and a tail; and The Catshire Cat, Chash. We also know about the Mad Hatter, Raiden Walker, the March Hare, and Dor, the Dormouse. I easily fell in love with Tee and Dee, but each man has his own appeal.
The original Alice was never my favorite story. I preferred the fairy tale romance to political intrigue. Having said that I appreciated the insanity of this version. This is not the usual CM Stunich book. There are a few sexy times, but this book is more about setting up the story and placing all of the characters on the board. There are no instant connections. I am looking forward to the bonds truly forming. Allison's journey so far has been an adventure full of wonder, danger, sexual tension, and uncertainty. With the cliffhanger ending it appears the adventure is only beginning.
Amy Sumida
Happily Harem After
by Amy Sumida *****REVIEW
Happily Harem After is a collection of fairy tales unlike any that you have read before! The brilliant mind of Amy Sumida has taken the well-known tales and given them a Reverse Harem twist. I can't stress enough how clever, how imaginative, how delightful they are. The book contains Wild Wonderland (Alice), Four Clever Brothers (previously included in the Falling For Her Anthology; a Grimm Brother's mash-up), Beauty and the Beast (Belle), Pandora's Boys (Pan and the Lost Boys), and Glass Slipper (Cinderella). Wild Wonderland and Pandora's Boys are exceptional. I personally was not a huge fan of Glass Slipper, but I can't argue that it was entertaining. I was surprised that Snow White was not included since it seemed a natural fit, but I am greedy and would have been thrilled with an entire collection of every known fairy tale. Maybe we will have a wonderful volume 2!
Happily Harem After is a collection of fairy tales unlike any that you have read before! The brilliant mind of Amy Sumida has taken the well-known tales and given them a Reverse Harem twist. I can't stress enough how clever, how imaginative, how delightful they are. The book contains Wild Wonderland (Alice), Four Clever Brothers (previously included in the Falling For Her Anthology; a Grimm Brother's mash-up), Beauty and the Beast (Belle), Pandora's Boys (Pan and the Lost Boys), and Glass Slipper (Cinderella). Wild Wonderland and Pandora's Boys are exceptional. I personally was not a huge fan of Glass Slipper, but I can't argue that it was entertaining. I was surprised that Snow White was not included since it seemed a natural fit, but I am greedy and would have been thrilled with an entire collection of every known fairy tale. Maybe we will have a wonderful volume 2!
The Last Lullaby (The Spellsinger #1)
by Amy Sumida *****REVIEW
The Last Lullaby is the wildly entertaining debut in Amy Sumida's new series, The Spellsinger. I loved this book so much I broke one of my own rules for reviewing books. I usually will not give a 5 star for the first novel in a series; series build to a perfect finale. This book proves the exception. It's highly original, well written, nicely paced. The world building is extraordinary, the characters are wonderfully multi-dimensional. It's captivating from beginning to end.
Elaria is a spellsinger, a siren-witch hybrid. Very rare in the world Beneath; a world of paranormals Vampires, Shapeshifters, Shining Ones, etc. Amy has mastered developing the perfect lead female. Elaria is strong, smart, beautiful, caring, sexy, vulnerable, and sarcastic. Her use of humor when she's uncomfortable is the perfect finishing touch. Elaria works with her best friend Cerberus working security for a very select clientele. Her songs are her weapon. She can sing one into submission, forgetfulness, altering their course or to their own destruction.
Last Lullaby is a perfect blend of action, suspense, danger, intrigue, and love (old and new, platonic and romantic). There are choices to be made. Lives will be lost, worlds will be saved, hearts will be broken. Cerberus, Banning, and Torin are the main men in Elaria's life; all playing an important role. I loved all three.
This is a cleverly written book. It's full of wit, current and historical references, and has a wonderful playlist (Elaria's songs). It pulled emotion after emotion from me; uncertainty, amusement, hope, angst, relief, anger, happiness. It left me completely satisfied and wanting more. What more can you ask for in a book? I highly recommend this one and am eagerly awaiting the second one!
THERE ARE 22 BOOKS IN THE GODHUNTER SERIES SO FAR. THIS WILL TAKE ME A WHILE. . I NEEDED A BREAK AFTER THIS ONE.
by Amy Sumida *****REVIEW
The Last Lullaby is the wildly entertaining debut in Amy Sumida's new series, The Spellsinger. I loved this book so much I broke one of my own rules for reviewing books. I usually will not give a 5 star for the first novel in a series; series build to a perfect finale. This book proves the exception. It's highly original, well written, nicely paced. The world building is extraordinary, the characters are wonderfully multi-dimensional. It's captivating from beginning to end.
Elaria is a spellsinger, a siren-witch hybrid. Very rare in the world Beneath; a world of paranormals Vampires, Shapeshifters, Shining Ones, etc. Amy has mastered developing the perfect lead female. Elaria is strong, smart, beautiful, caring, sexy, vulnerable, and sarcastic. Her use of humor when she's uncomfortable is the perfect finishing touch. Elaria works with her best friend Cerberus working security for a very select clientele. Her songs are her weapon. She can sing one into submission, forgetfulness, altering their course or to their own destruction.
Last Lullaby is a perfect blend of action, suspense, danger, intrigue, and love (old and new, platonic and romantic). There are choices to be made. Lives will be lost, worlds will be saved, hearts will be broken. Cerberus, Banning, and Torin are the main men in Elaria's life; all playing an important role. I loved all three.
This is a cleverly written book. It's full of wit, current and historical references, and has a wonderful playlist (Elaria's songs). It pulled emotion after emotion from me; uncertainty, amusement, hope, angst, relief, anger, happiness. It left me completely satisfied and wanting more. What more can you ask for in a book? I highly recommend this one and am eagerly awaiting the second one!
Elaria is a spellsinger, a siren-witch hybrid. Very rare in the world Beneath; a world of paranormals Vampires, Shapeshifters, Shining Ones, etc. Amy has mastered developing the perfect lead female. Elaria is strong, smart, beautiful, caring, sexy, vulnerable, and sarcastic. Her use of humor when she's uncomfortable is the perfect finishing touch. Elaria works with her best friend Cerberus working security for a very select clientele. Her songs are her weapon. She can sing one into submission, forgetfulness, altering their course or to their own destruction.
Last Lullaby is a perfect blend of action, suspense, danger, intrigue, and love (old and new, platonic and romantic). There are choices to be made. Lives will be lost, worlds will be saved, hearts will be broken. Cerberus, Banning, and Torin are the main men in Elaria's life; all playing an important role. I loved all three.
This is a cleverly written book. It's full of wit, current and historical references, and has a wonderful playlist (Elaria's songs). It pulled emotion after emotion from me; uncertainty, amusement, hope, angst, relief, anger, happiness. It left me completely satisfied and wanting more. What more can you ask for in a book? I highly recommend this one and am eagerly awaiting the second one!
Marked by Death (The Godhunter #4)
by Amy Sumida ****REVIEW
I am reviewing this book in two parts.
Part 1: Capture by Anubis: Vervain is kidnapped by Anubis through magical possession. She was treated like a slave, and surrounded by enemies. Her magic is dormant. Although she’s kept against her will and raped, both mentally and physically, she enjoys the sex and even lusts after him after her escape. This is taking Stockholm syndrome to a disturbing level. I did not like this part of the book at all! Everything about it upset me.
Part 2: Post-Kidnapping: Much better. I very much like the RH developments and the reasoning, but I feel for Trevor. Honestly this man is too good and is forced to endure so much because of his love for Vervain.
This book was my least favorite of the series however it was well written and if you don't mind the abuse, it was good. I couldn't stomach it. Vervain has grown into such a strong character and this was a step back/sideways/in the wrong direction. I have faith in Vervain and in Amy and look forward to continuing this story.
by Amy Sumida ****REVIEW
I am reviewing this book in two parts.
Part 1: Capture by Anubis: Vervain is kidnapped by Anubis through magical possession. She was treated like a slave, and surrounded by enemies. Her magic is dormant. Although she’s kept against her will and raped, both mentally and physically, she enjoys the sex and even lusts after him after her escape. This is taking Stockholm syndrome to a disturbing level. I did not like this part of the book at all! Everything about it upset me.
Part 2: Post-Kidnapping: Much better. I very much like the RH developments and the reasoning, but I feel for Trevor. Honestly this man is too good and is forced to endure so much because of his love for Vervain.
This book was my least favorite of the series however it was well written and if you don't mind the abuse, it was good. I couldn't stomach it. Vervain has grown into such a strong character and this was a step back/sideways/in the wrong direction. I have faith in Vervain and in Amy and look forward to continuing this story.
Part 1: Capture by Anubis: Vervain is kidnapped by Anubis through magical possession. She was treated like a slave, and surrounded by enemies. Her magic is dormant. Although she’s kept against her will and raped, both mentally and physically, she enjoys the sex and even lusts after him after her escape. This is taking Stockholm syndrome to a disturbing level. I did not like this part of the book at all! Everything about it upset me.
Part 2: Post-Kidnapping: Much better. I very much like the RH developments and the reasoning, but I feel for Trevor. Honestly this man is too good and is forced to endure so much because of his love for Vervain.
This book was my least favorite of the series however it was well written and if you don't mind the abuse, it was good. I couldn't stomach it. Vervain has grown into such a strong character and this was a step back/sideways/in the wrong direction. I have faith in Vervain and in Amy and look forward to continuing this story.
Oathbreaker (The Godhunter #3)
by Amy Sumida ****REVIEW
Amy Sumida has such an imagination. I can't stress how great the concept of these books is. The idea of every God thought up by mankind actually existing because of human beliefs provides such a wealth of storytelling. To uphold the human beliefs or myths and then to exist outside of them as real individuals interacting in the God and human world has endless possibilities for entertainment. The characters are fascinating, relatable, clever, kind, cruel, and witty.
Just when I believe that Vervain's life couldn't become more complicated, I am proven wrong. Now she has goddess's powers, mate bonds, and a former life with a husband and children to add to her character. I love the addition of the sons to her personality. She becomes more complex by the moment. I love how she can go from snarky to thoughtful depending on the need of the moment. She's the star of these books despite the beautiful, powerful Gods.
by Amy Sumida ****REVIEW
Amy Sumida has such an imagination. I can't stress how great the concept of these books is. The idea of every God thought up by mankind actually existing because of human beliefs provides such a wealth of storytelling. To uphold the human beliefs or myths and then to exist outside of them as real individuals interacting in the God and human world has endless possibilities for entertainment. The characters are fascinating, relatable, clever, kind, cruel, and witty.
Just when I believe that Vervain's life couldn't become more complicated, I am proven wrong. Now she has goddess's powers, mate bonds, and a former life with a husband and children to add to her character. I love the addition of the sons to her personality. She becomes more complex by the moment. I love how she can go from snarky to thoughtful depending on the need of the moment. She's the star of these books despite the beautiful, powerful Gods.
Just when I believe that Vervain's life couldn't become more complicated, I am proven wrong. Now she has goddess's powers, mate bonds, and a former life with a husband and children to add to her character. I love the addition of the sons to her personality. She becomes more complex by the moment. I love how she can go from snarky to thoughtful depending on the need of the moment. She's the star of these books despite the beautiful, powerful Gods.
Of Gods and Wolves (The Godhunter #2)
by Amy Sumida ****REVIEW
Vervain is back and in trouble once again. She's facing heartbreak and anger, but there's more than one man willing to step into her lover's role. Seems the perfect man may be part wolf this time. She has a long list of enemies still after her. For every God she kills, another steps up. She makes enemies as easily as friends. Her sense of humor shines through with both. Her smart mouth sets her apart and above so many female leads. Her sensuality, intelligence, and her pure emotions all add up to make her a special character.
I love Trevor, her Froeken Mate. He's gorgeous inside and out, both Alpha and gentle. He is dedicated to Vervain, no matter what. He's the perfect follow-up for Thor breaking my heart. I have to say as much as I love the Froeken, I am even more fond of the lion shifters. These beautiful, damaged men and Vervain's responses to them have been so touching. I hope that Vervain is able to successfully balance her 'dogs' and 'cats' and butterflies. I want her to have it all.
by Amy Sumida ****REVIEW
Vervain is back and in trouble once again. She's facing heartbreak and anger, but there's more than one man willing to step into her lover's role. Seems the perfect man may be part wolf this time. She has a long list of enemies still after her. For every God she kills, another steps up. She makes enemies as easily as friends. Her sense of humor shines through with both. Her smart mouth sets her apart and above so many female leads. Her sensuality, intelligence, and her pure emotions all add up to make her a special character.
I love Trevor, her Froeken Mate. He's gorgeous inside and out, both Alpha and gentle. He is dedicated to Vervain, no matter what. He's the perfect follow-up for Thor breaking my heart. I have to say as much as I love the Froeken, I am even more fond of the lion shifters. These beautiful, damaged men and Vervain's responses to them have been so touching. I hope that Vervain is able to successfully balance her 'dogs' and 'cats' and butterflies. I want her to have it all.
I love Trevor, her Froeken Mate. He's gorgeous inside and out, both Alpha and gentle. He is dedicated to Vervain, no matter what. He's the perfect follow-up for Thor breaking my heart. I have to say as much as I love the Froeken, I am even more fond of the lion shifters. These beautiful, damaged men and Vervain's responses to them have been so touching. I hope that Vervain is able to successfully balance her 'dogs' and 'cats' and butterflies. I want her to have it all.
Godhunter (The Godhunter #1)
by Amy Sumida ****REVIEW
What a pleasant surprise this book was. It has a great concept, wonderful characters, humorous dialogue, adventure, danger, passion. Vervain is a fantastic lead female. She's a breath of fresh air; equally clueless and competent, feminine and badass. Her sense of humor is a delight.
The book is set in multiple worlds, human and the God realm. All Gods from every culture are real. They were once Atlanteans who gained power from human worship and blood sacrifices. Humans changed them according to their beliefs and cultures. But many of the Gods became power-hungry, no longer satisfied with their humans and are now actively causing human pain and suffering. Vervain has discovered this and has made it her mission to hunt down and kill the Gods. While doing this, she stumbles across a group of Gods fighting against their own for humans. This shakes up her beliefs, introduces her to new friends and new love.
Amy Sumida has created an endlessly entertaining world here. The mixture of Gods, cultures, the danger and the silliness of their adventures. It's a roller coaster ride of emotions, love and heartbreak, sweetness and nasty behavior. It's a perfect combination. I could hardly wait to grab book 2 to continue Vervain's adventure.
LJ Swallow
by Amy Sumida ****REVIEW
What a pleasant surprise this book was. It has a great concept, wonderful characters, humorous dialogue, adventure, danger, passion. Vervain is a fantastic lead female. She's a breath of fresh air; equally clueless and competent, feminine and badass. Her sense of humor is a delight.
The book is set in multiple worlds, human and the God realm. All Gods from every culture are real. They were once Atlanteans who gained power from human worship and blood sacrifices. Humans changed them according to their beliefs and cultures. But many of the Gods became power-hungry, no longer satisfied with their humans and are now actively causing human pain and suffering. Vervain has discovered this and has made it her mission to hunt down and kill the Gods. While doing this, she stumbles across a group of Gods fighting against their own for humans. This shakes up her beliefs, introduces her to new friends and new love.
Amy Sumida has created an endlessly entertaining world here. The mixture of Gods, cultures, the danger and the silliness of their adventures. It's a roller coaster ride of emotions, love and heartbreak, sweetness and nasty behavior. It's a perfect combination. I could hardly wait to grab book 2 to continue Vervain's adventure.
The book is set in multiple worlds, human and the God realm. All Gods from every culture are real. They were once Atlanteans who gained power from human worship and blood sacrifices. Humans changed them according to their beliefs and cultures. But many of the Gods became power-hungry, no longer satisfied with their humans and are now actively causing human pain and suffering. Vervain has discovered this and has made it her mission to hunt down and kill the Gods. While doing this, she stumbles across a group of Gods fighting against their own for humans. This shakes up her beliefs, introduces her to new friends and new love.
Amy Sumida has created an endlessly entertaining world here. The mixture of Gods, cultures, the danger and the silliness of their adventures. It's a roller coaster ride of emotions, love and heartbreak, sweetness and nasty behavior. It's a perfect combination. I could hardly wait to grab book 2 to continue Vervain's adventure.
LJ Swallow
Nightworld Academy: Term Two
(Nightworld Academy #2) by
Nightworld Academy: Term One
(Nightworld Academy #1) by
Maeve has never been 'normal'. She has visions that everyone else calls hallucinations. After she was expelled from her school when she interfered with a vision, Maeve's parents enrolled her in a private boarding school. They promised there would be people there who could help her. Her new academy was not like she expected. Classes are at night, the students all seem to know things that she doesn't, and they're all in an advanced program that goes late into the night. Struggling, feeling alone and fearful Maeve starts making friends, her roommate Amelia, Jamie the sexy geek, Ash, the popular rugby team captain, and the bad boy Andrei. But there's' so much more to this academy than Maeve expected. A whole new world is opened up. But with it are dangers. Not everyone will make it through the school term. And with her visions, Maeve knows who.
The world building is exceptional, the characters are well-thought out, and the story is fantastic. It took me a minute to become completely absorbed because so much set-up was necessary but once the stage was set, I was enthralled. I prefer snarky, confident-pretending Maeve to scared Maeve but I found both completely realistic. Each of her new friends comes with their own baggage that equals her past. It draws them together and creates distance at the same time. It's a dynamite dynamic. The guys are all so different and Maeve interacts with each differently. I like that. I also have questions about a certain teacher. What exactly is going on? I know what I think, what I want, but I may be way off base.
There are so many layers to this story, so many ways this story can go. The Dominion, the Confederacy, hunters, mean girls with an extra bite, a witch, a shifter, and a vamp or two, visions, classes, and house wars. I'm excited to se what's next for Maeve. Just know I did not like that ending at all. Another vision that must not be!
Maeve has never been 'normal'. She has visions that everyone else calls hallucinations. After she was expelled from her school when she interfered with a vision, Maeve's parents enrolled her in a private boarding school. They promised there would be people there who could help her. Her new academy was not like she expected. Classes are at night, the students all seem to know things that she doesn't, and they're all in an advanced program that goes late into the night. Struggling, feeling alone and fearful Maeve starts making friends, her roommate Amelia, Jamie the sexy geek, Ash, the popular rugby team captain, and the bad boy Andrei. But there's' so much more to this academy than Maeve expected. A whole new world is opened up. But with it are dangers. Not everyone will make it through the school term. And with her visions, Maeve knows who.
The world building is exceptional, the characters are well-thought out, and the story is fantastic. It took me a minute to become completely absorbed because so much set-up was necessary but once the stage was set, I was enthralled. I prefer snarky, confident-pretending Maeve to scared Maeve but I found both completely realistic. Each of her new friends comes with their own baggage that equals her past. It draws them together and creates distance at the same time. It's a dynamite dynamic. The guys are all so different and Maeve interacts with each differently. I like that. I also have questions about a certain teacher. What exactly is going on? I know what I think, what I want, but I may be way off base.
There are so many layers to this story, so many ways this story can go. The Dominion, the Confederacy, hunters, mean girls with an extra bite, a witch, a shifter, and a vamp or two, visions, classes, and house wars. I'm excited to se what's next for Maeve. Just know I did not like that ending at all. Another vision that must not be!
The world building is exceptional, the characters are well-thought out, and the story is fantastic. It took me a minute to become completely absorbed because so much set-up was necessary but once the stage was set, I was enthralled. I prefer snarky, confident-pretending Maeve to scared Maeve but I found both completely realistic. Each of her new friends comes with their own baggage that equals her past. It draws them together and creates distance at the same time. It's a dynamite dynamic. The guys are all so different and Maeve interacts with each differently. I like that. I also have questions about a certain teacher. What exactly is going on? I know what I think, what I want, but I may be way off base.
There are so many layers to this story, so many ways this story can go. The Dominion, the Confederacy, hunters, mean girls with an extra bite, a witch, a shifter, and a vamp or two, visions, classes, and house wars. I'm excited to se what's next for Maeve. Just know I did not like that ending at all. Another vision that must not be!
Nightworld Academy: Term One
(Nightworld Academy #1) by
The Four Horsemen: Sinister Halloween by LJ Swallow *****REVIEW
It's Halloween again, the time of year that children carve jack-o-lanterns, dress up for trick or treating, and enjoy scary cemeteries and haunted houses. Teens are more into tricks and adults are more into treats but everyone loves Halloween. This year the Horsemen and Vee want to take part in the local festivities, well except for Xander. He's on edge looking for anything suspicious. This includes the local teens with a grudge against him and the flirty woman taking too much interest in the local men including the Horsemen. Then's there's that cat Vee has taken a fancy too. Something is off. Then strange things start happening near their house. Oh yeah, Xander hates Halloween. After this, the others may too!
The Four Horsemen: Sinister Halloween by LJ Swallow *****REVIEW
It's Halloween again, the time of year that children carve jack-o-lanterns, dress up for trick or treating, and enjoy scary cemeteries and haunted houses. Teens are more into tricks and adults are more into treats but everyone loves Halloween. This year the Horsemen and Vee want to take part in the local festivities, well except for Xander. He's on edge looking for anything suspicious. This includes the local teens with a grudge against him and the flirty woman taking too much interest in the local men including the Horsemen. Then's there's that cat Vee has taken a fancy too. Something is off. Then strange things start happening near their house. Oh yeah, Xander hates Halloween. After this, the others may too!
Sinister was everything that I could want for the Horsemen's Halloween. Eerie, suspenseful, sexy. Pranks and spells; harmless and deadly. I could not put it down. Xander's frustration with the teenagers was almost comical. I kept expecting him to go all War on them. The other part of the storyline was not nearly as amusing. I can deal with the Horsemen facing gods, angel, demons, and fae. I cannot deal with the horror of them facing a dangerous, conniving woman. Just the thought of anyone coming between the Pony Boys and Vee guts me. My emotions were out of control with worry and anger. It's a good thing this is fictional and I do not have Vee's powers. I would have unleashed Chaos! Obviously, I enjoyed every second of this novella. Pure fun!
*I have theories about what the Christmas story will bring. I can't wait to see if I am right!!
The Four Horsemen: Reckoning
by LJ Swallow *****REVIEWThe time has come. Chaos must be stopped or the world will be destroyed. Verity knows who she is and that she can stop Chaos with Order but it will also mean her death. The farmhouse is gone and with Chaos opening portals Vee and her Pony Boys head to the US to plan the final battle. There the arrival of unanticipated allies brings new hope and a new plan but also brings more unexpected information. There was more to the prophecy than they understood. There is even more to Vee than they realized and the Pony Boys' role in the world is more than guarding the portals. Each one of the five plays a specific, vital role but something has gone wrong with the prophecy. It wasn't supposed to turn out like it has. Does it mean their doom or their salvation? Can their allies be trusted? Is their a way to destroy Chaos and also save Vee? Will the Horsemen still be needed if the portals are sealed? Is love enough when the world can be consumed by Chaos and Order? In the end, Love Is EVERYTHING.
Sinister was everything that I could want for the Horsemen's Halloween. Eerie, suspenseful, sexy. Pranks and spells; harmless and deadly. I could not put it down. Xander's frustration with the teenagers was almost comical. I kept expecting him to go all War on them. The other part of the storyline was not nearly as amusing. I can deal with the Horsemen facing gods, angel, demons, and fae. I cannot deal with the horror of them facing a dangerous, conniving woman. Just the thought of anyone coming between the Pony Boys and Vee guts me. My emotions were out of control with worry and anger. It's a good thing this is fictional and I do not have Vee's powers. I would have unleashed Chaos! Obviously, I enjoyed every second of this novella. Pure fun!
*I have theories about what the Christmas story will bring. I can't wait to see if I am right!!
*I have theories about what the Christmas story will bring. I can't wait to see if I am right!!
The Four Horsemen: Reckoning
by LJ Swallow *****REVIEWThe time has come. Chaos must be stopped or the world will be destroyed. Verity knows who she is and that she can stop Chaos with Order but it will also mean her death. The farmhouse is gone and with Chaos opening portals Vee and her Pony Boys head to the US to plan the final battle. There the arrival of unanticipated allies brings new hope and a new plan but also brings more unexpected information. There was more to the prophecy than they understood. There is even more to Vee than they realized and the Pony Boys' role in the world is more than guarding the portals. Each one of the five plays a specific, vital role but something has gone wrong with the prophecy. It wasn't supposed to turn out like it has. Does it mean their doom or their salvation? Can their allies be trusted? Is their a way to destroy Chaos and also save Vee? Will the Horsemen still be needed if the portals are sealed? Is love enough when the world can be consumed by Chaos and Order? In the end, Love Is EVERYTHING.
Chaos (The Four Horsemen #5)
by L.J. Swallow *****REVIEW
The Pony Boys and Vee are back! Chaos reigns. They have never been so threatened, so lost. They have never faced an opponent like this; one they don't understand, one that seems to use their own powers against them, one that may be stronger than they are. For the first time, the Four Horseman are unsure of themselves. They are drawn to their Fifth, Truth, but they still don't fully trust her role. Is she meant to help them or destroy them? Their hesitancy and doubt hurt Vee and make her question herself. As the bigger picture starts to make sense they realize that they need to mend fences with allies and possibly align with former enemies. The world depends on them for survival and they need Vee. Is she truly their's?
The Four Horsemen: Guardians
by LJ Swallow *****REVIEW
Guardians picks up exactly where Hunted left off. The bodies are beginning to pile up and it's getting closer and closer to Vee. Now it's personal and her human side is not coping well. She's shocked and shutting down. She's also feeling guilty that she's letting her Horsemen down by not being strong enough. Plus, there's this voice inside her, a Vee that may be dangerous. In her desperation, she asks Joss to strip her of her human emotions feeling that it will make her stronger. However, if he does as she requests, will it take away her ability to connect with the guys? Will it take away the part of her that the guys love? The story is getting more complicated, darker. The Horsemen are following leads from Seth, Vee's on-line co-conspirator. Leads that have them dealing with beings they would rather avoid, Hunters, Demons, the ancient Collector. There are no answers, only more mysteries.
Vee is getting closer to the Horsemen, but at the same time trust is disappearing and fear of her impact on the group is returning. Once again we are left to wonder who is Vee? Why a fifth now? Is she making them stronger or tearing them apart? There is confusion, fear, pain, hurt, suspicion, and anger among the group, not to mention the lust that always lingers between the guys and Vee. There's also a danger that can't be seen. A dark coldness with the power to destroy.
This series just keeps getting better. Each book is entertaining, but this book took the series to a new level. The tension was there from page one and only increased with each page. The darkness is growing and the Horsemen seem at a loss. Several times one or more of them was seriously shaken by information coming to light. For the first time, they don't seem invincible. For the first time, Vee's presence seems as if it could cause them weakness, not strength. Vee is at a crossroads, who is she and whom does she want to be? There are no answers only paths to follow. Warning: The book ends with a cliffhanger that will gut you. Chaos can not arrive soon enough!
Vee is getting closer to the Horsemen, but at the same time trust is disappearing and fear of her impact on the group is returning. Once again we are left to wonder who is Vee? Why a fifth now? Is she making them stronger or tearing them apart? There is confusion, fear, pain, hurt, suspicion, and anger among the group, not to mention the lust that always lingers between the guys and Vee. There's also a danger that can't be seen. A dark coldness with the power to destroy.
This series just keeps getting better. Each book is entertaining, but this book took the series to a new level. The tension was there from page one and only increased with each page. The darkness is growing and the Horsemen seem at a loss. Several times one or more of them was seriously shaken by information coming to light. For the first time, they don't seem invincible. For the first time, Vee's presence seems as if it could cause them weakness, not strength. Vee is at a crossroads, who is she and whom does she want to be? There are no answers only paths to follow. Warning: The book ends with a cliffhanger that will gut you. Chaos can not arrive soon enough!
Tricked: A Halloween Story (The Four Horsemen #3.5) by L.J. Swallow ****REVIEW
Halloween with the Pony Boys and Vee! Fun, sexy, and dangerous. Portia, the fea queen asks the Horsemen to supervise her youngest daughter, Kailey's Halloween party and to keep the peace they agree. Not exactly what they are suited for. Each would rather battle demons than spend an evening babysitting sugar-hyped children and fending off single moms, but who knows; they might get to do both.
This story is pure fun. The Four Horsemen and Verity dressing up for Halloween. Sexy, scary. A party with children playing games and eating cake, trick or treating. A teenage fae with an attitude inviting vampires to the party, spiking the punch. Unexpected danger. Halloween is the perfect time for demons to strike after all!
This story is pure fun. The Four Horsemen and Verity dressing up for Halloween. Sexy, scary. A party with children playing games and eating cake, trick or treating. A teenage fae with an attitude inviting vampires to the party, spiking the punch. Unexpected danger. Halloween is the perfect time for demons to strike after all!
The Four Horsemen: Hunted
by LJ Swallow ****REVIEW
The Pony Boys and Vee return in Hunted! Each book in the Four Horsemen series just gets better. This one picks up with the discovery of the deadly message. This leaves the Horsemen confused and alarmed which only unsettles Vee more. This new world, her new life is even more difficult than she imagined. There are politics with other supernatural groups, alliances failing, more deadly encounters, mysteries from her human life, and her increasing feelings towards the Boys that all must be dealt with. The fae announce that she has a darkness in her; that she is a distraction and a danger to the Horsemen and that she will destroy everything. Her past life resurfaces and tangles itself into her new one. And everywhere the body count, good guys and bad guys, is growing. It's clear that someone powerful is involved.
There is a ton of action in this book; new information, new mysteries. Even so, there is plenty of time between Vee and each of the Horsemen. We get one on one time with every single guy; a date with Joss and sexy time with not one, but TWO of the guys. Wow, just W-O-W! They all feel more for each other daily, although not everyone is willing to accept and admit their emotions. It's clear though and can only be denied for so long before it becomes explosive. I love the individual connections. They are all so defined, so different. The vulnerable moments are my favorites. They show the true strength of the bond between Vee and The Horsemen. She's going to need them more than ever because by the end it all becomes too much. There has been too much change, too much unknown, too much death, too much loss in such a short period. She is beginning to fully grasp that although they can postpone the apocalypse, the risk will never be gone. This is her life now and she can't do it.
I love this book and can't wait for the next book Guardians. This is one of my favorite series and I want more, more more. My birthday is December 7th. Sounds like the perfect release date!
There is a ton of action in this book; new information, new mysteries. Even so, there is plenty of time between Vee and each of the Horsemen. We get one on one time with every single guy; a date with Joss and sexy time with not one, but TWO of the guys. Wow, just W-O-W! They all feel more for each other daily, although not everyone is willing to accept and admit their emotions. It's clear though and can only be denied for so long before it becomes explosive. I love the individual connections. They are all so defined, so different. The vulnerable moments are my favorites. They show the true strength of the bond between Vee and The Horsemen. She's going to need them more than ever because by the end it all becomes too much. There has been too much change, too much unknown, too much death, too much loss in such a short period. She is beginning to fully grasp that although they can postpone the apocalypse, the risk will never be gone. This is her life now and she can't do it.
I love this book and can't wait for the next book Guardians. This is one of my favorite series and I want more, more more. My birthday is December 7th. Sounds like the perfect release date!
Bound (The Four Horsemen #2)
Bound continues the story of Verity, the newest Horsemen (woman). The 5th. It's wonderful! Vee has discovered that her whole life is a lie, that she is a lie. All of her memories are false and fading fast. Apparently, she agreed to this situation but has no memory. She should be traumatized by this revelation, but she's not. Sure, she's unsettled, but she's more frustrated. Frustrated that the other Horsemen won't tell her everything that they know, frustrated that they are treating her as fragile when she wants to be their equal, and frustrated because she desires all four men. Entering into the world of demons is more difficult than she even imagined and she's determined to master her powers quickly so that she's not at the mercy of the demons. Being the 5th is a challenge.
This is a complex and fascinating Reverse Harem series. I still believe that the modern take on the Horsemen concept is brilliant. Throw in the new 5th and the attraction that the 4 hold for her and the fact that they each share a piece of the others so that they are all interwoven and it becomes so much more complicated. Vee can no longer trust her memories, can she trust that these men care about her beyond their programming? Does it matter when the attraction is so powerful that it can't be ignored? All of this builds tension. The release of desire is inevitable. Whether it's fighting with Xander, sexy times in the kitchen with Ewan, cuddling with Joss or simply talking with Heath the anticipation is building. I love that as confused and overwhelmed as Vee was at times, that she is quickly owning her new life. She manages to put Xander in his place regularly and even after being traumatized, she didn't quit. She had her cry, then set about learning to protect herself and get her own revenge. She will not only be their equal, she will make them all stronger, if they can quit fighting against what is meant to be!
This was a fast paced, well-written book. There's so much action packed in between these pages, backstory, character building, more demon activity. It's so good, and this one has a very mysterious cliffhanger that will leave you screaming for more.
Legacy (The Four Horsemen #1
Bound continues the story of Verity, the newest Horsemen (woman). The 5th. It's wonderful! Vee has discovered that her whole life is a lie, that she is a lie. All of her memories are false and fading fast. Apparently, she agreed to this situation but has no memory. She should be traumatized by this revelation, but she's not. Sure, she's unsettled, but she's more frustrated. Frustrated that the other Horsemen won't tell her everything that they know, frustrated that they are treating her as fragile when she wants to be their equal, and frustrated because she desires all four men. Entering into the world of demons is more difficult than she even imagined and she's determined to master her powers quickly so that she's not at the mercy of the demons. Being the 5th is a challenge.
This is a complex and fascinating Reverse Harem series. I still believe that the modern take on the Horsemen concept is brilliant. Throw in the new 5th and the attraction that the 4 hold for her and the fact that they each share a piece of the others so that they are all interwoven and it becomes so much more complicated. Vee can no longer trust her memories, can she trust that these men care about her beyond their programming? Does it matter when the attraction is so powerful that it can't be ignored? All of this builds tension. The release of desire is inevitable. Whether it's fighting with Xander, sexy times in the kitchen with Ewan, cuddling with Joss or simply talking with Heath the anticipation is building. I love that as confused and overwhelmed as Vee was at times, that she is quickly owning her new life. She manages to put Xander in his place regularly and even after being traumatized, she didn't quit. She had her cry, then set about learning to protect herself and get her own revenge. She will not only be their equal, she will make them all stronger, if they can quit fighting against what is meant to be!
This was a fast paced, well-written book. There's so much action packed in between these pages, backstory, character building, more demon activity. It's so good, and this one has a very mysterious cliffhanger that will leave you screaming for more.
This is a complex and fascinating Reverse Harem series. I still believe that the modern take on the Horsemen concept is brilliant. Throw in the new 5th and the attraction that the 4 hold for her and the fact that they each share a piece of the others so that they are all interwoven and it becomes so much more complicated. Vee can no longer trust her memories, can she trust that these men care about her beyond their programming? Does it matter when the attraction is so powerful that it can't be ignored? All of this builds tension. The release of desire is inevitable. Whether it's fighting with Xander, sexy times in the kitchen with Ewan, cuddling with Joss or simply talking with Heath the anticipation is building. I love that as confused and overwhelmed as Vee was at times, that she is quickly owning her new life. She manages to put Xander in his place regularly and even after being traumatized, she didn't quit. She had her cry, then set about learning to protect herself and get her own revenge. She will not only be their equal, she will make them all stronger, if they can quit fighting against what is meant to be!
This was a fast paced, well-written book. There's so much action packed in between these pages, backstory, character building, more demon activity. It's so good, and this one has a very mysterious cliffhanger that will leave you screaming for more.
Legacy (The Four Horsemen #1
The Four Horsemen is a different take of the Biblical 4. This is a very promising start to a new Reverse Harem where the Horsemen return in cycles to prevent the apocalypse, not to bring it on. This time they return with a twist, a fifth Horseman or rather Horsewoman, Truth. Verity Jameson's day had been typical; going about her job doing IT work, upset a co-worker by telling her too much truth about her appearance, and a planned night at home with her cat. That all goes sideways when she hits a man on the way home. The man isn't harmed, but then he is Death. The Horsemen Death (Heath), Pestilence (Ewan), Famine (Joss), and War (Xander) have been looking for their fifth. Now they have found her. She will make them stronger, allow them the chance to succeed this time. She will also bring a mess of trouble. They all share a piece of each other; the connection makes the guys as close as brothers, the effect is different with Vee. There's a physical attraction that is overwhelming and can only cause problems. This connection does not allow for any of the five to walk away.
This is a great premise and the writing is solid. It's fast paced, but short. The characters are definitely not cookie-cutter stereotypes. Verity is hard to label. She lacks friends, the truth doesn't always make people love you and she can't tolerate anyone who lies. She's understandably overwhelmed by the truth of her life and her attraction to the Horsemen. Plus, demons are trying to kill her. It's been a rough few days! I look forward to watching her come into her own power. The guys are all gorgeous but are all trying to keep a distance from Vee to keep things from getting more complicated. It's cruel! I'm so used to the main female being the center of lavish attentions and in this case, she's ignored, sent mixed messages, and even gets some meanness thrown her way. Heath has given into his attraction a couple times but then backtracks in a hurtful way. Normally I would hate this, but it fits the story nicely, builds anticipation for a future where the Horsemen all give into her, and there are no other girls involved. Still, I feel for Vee and can't wait for the eventual togetherness.
I am eagerly anticipating the next book. Luckily I don't have to wait too long. I want to see how Vee's powers work and what powers she has. I want more of the mystery of this earth cycle with the portals and demons. I want to see the five working together, the conflicts, and the boys fall. Vee will have her pony boys!
The Four Horsemen is a different take of the Biblical 4. This is a very promising start to a new Reverse Harem where the Horsemen return in cycles to prevent the apocalypse, not to bring it on. This time they return with a twist, a fifth Horseman or rather Horsewoman, Truth. Verity Jameson's day had been typical; going about her job doing IT work, upset a co-worker by telling her too much truth about her appearance, and a planned night at home with her cat. That all goes sideways when she hits a man on the way home. The man isn't harmed, but then he is Death. The Horsemen Death (Heath), Pestilence (Ewan), Famine (Joss), and War (Xander) have been looking for their fifth. Now they have found her. She will make them stronger, allow them the chance to succeed this time. She will also bring a mess of trouble. They all share a piece of each other; the connection makes the guys as close as brothers, the effect is different with Vee. There's a physical attraction that is overwhelming and can only cause problems. This connection does not allow for any of the five to walk away.
This is a great premise and the writing is solid. It's fast paced, but short. The characters are definitely not cookie-cutter stereotypes. Verity is hard to label. She lacks friends, the truth doesn't always make people love you and she can't tolerate anyone who lies. She's understandably overwhelmed by the truth of her life and her attraction to the Horsemen. Plus, demons are trying to kill her. It's been a rough few days! I look forward to watching her come into her own power. The guys are all gorgeous but are all trying to keep a distance from Vee to keep things from getting more complicated. It's cruel! I'm so used to the main female being the center of lavish attentions and in this case, she's ignored, sent mixed messages, and even gets some meanness thrown her way. Heath has given into his attraction a couple times but then backtracks in a hurtful way. Normally I would hate this, but it fits the story nicely, builds anticipation for a future where the Horsemen all give into her, and there are no other girls involved. Still, I feel for Vee and can't wait for the eventual togetherness.
I am eagerly anticipating the next book. Luckily I don't have to wait too long. I want to see how Vee's powers work and what powers she has. I want more of the mystery of this earth cycle with the portals and demons. I want to see the five working together, the conflicts, and the boys fall. Vee will have her pony boys!
This is a great premise and the writing is solid. It's fast paced, but short. The characters are definitely not cookie-cutter stereotypes. Verity is hard to label. She lacks friends, the truth doesn't always make people love you and she can't tolerate anyone who lies. She's understandably overwhelmed by the truth of her life and her attraction to the Horsemen. Plus, demons are trying to kill her. It's been a rough few days! I look forward to watching her come into her own power. The guys are all gorgeous but are all trying to keep a distance from Vee to keep things from getting more complicated. It's cruel! I'm so used to the main female being the center of lavish attentions and in this case, she's ignored, sent mixed messages, and even gets some meanness thrown her way. Heath has given into his attraction a couple times but then backtracks in a hurtful way. Normally I would hate this, but it fits the story nicely, builds anticipation for a future where the Horsemen all give into her, and there are no other girls involved. Still, I feel for Vee and can't wait for the eventual togetherness.
I am eagerly anticipating the next book. Luckily I don't have to wait too long. I want to see how Vee's powers work and what powers she has. I want more of the mystery of this earth cycle with the portals and demons. I want to see the five working together, the conflicts, and the boys fall. Vee will have her pony boys!
Elements of Magic (The Demon's Covenant #2)
by L.J. Swallow ****REVIEW
Syv. My favorite little red-headed half-demon thief with a death mark on her has returned! Syv and her Dwellers, Dex, Morgan, and Cillian are staying with The Collector as he uses his sources to help find leads for the dangerous Sunde boxes. Their goal is to recover the boxes and keep them out of Verin, the demon prince’s hands. Their search uncovers other information as well. The demons are allied with powerful fae including Syv's horrid ex Bastian and they are not only searching for the boxes but for Syv as well. It seems she and her mark are somehow tied to the boxes. The men are all united with the task of keeping he safe but they are adding additional complications. Dex's identity has already been revealed. Now after being friends for years, the Collector also reveals who he is to Syv as well. Confused, scared Syv still recognizes that there is a strength that comes from the five of them being together. Together they can overcome all obstacles, find the boxes and deal with the demons and fae.
Elements of Magic is a great read. Syv is my favorite. She's so complex. She's a force of nature, wreaking havoc. Sarcastic, head-strong, impetuous, clever, confident. But in this book, we get more glimpses into her fragile side. We see her secret fears, her vulnerability. It makes me love her even more. I also fell in love with Col this book. I wasn't sure how I felt about him before. It was clear that he was fond of Syv, protective of her but he was too restrained, too closed off. Getting to know him better, learn some of his past, learn how he truly feels for Syv won me over. His words made me melt. The Dwellers are an unusual group. Dex, the hound is my favorite. I love this oversized shifter. His power, his fierce protectiveness, and his constant concern for Syv, his attraction to her and how much it scares him makes him so lovable. Morgan is difficult. He made headway with me this book but still. His behavior turns me off at times. Cillian is the middleman. I like him but need to know more about him. His and Morgan's powers are impressive.
This story just keeps getting better. The suspense, the mystery, the tension. It's complicated and there's much we still need to know. The mystery surrounding who Syv is, what her power is, and what her connection to the boxes signifies has me obsessing. I desperately want Col to unleash and I need Dex returned to safety. I'm intrigued by Ashton and I want to see Bastian on his knees. I want to collect all of the boxes and see what Syv can do with them. I want Syv and Col to give in. I want Dex to get his chance and for Syv and Cillian to finish what they started. I want to stop being conflicted about Morgan. Obviously, I want the next book!
by L.J. Swallow ****REVIEW
Syv. My favorite little red-headed half-demon thief with a death mark on her has returned! Syv and her Dwellers, Dex, Morgan, and Cillian are staying with The Collector as he uses his sources to help find leads for the dangerous Sunde boxes. Their goal is to recover the boxes and keep them out of Verin, the demon prince’s hands. Their search uncovers other information as well. The demons are allied with powerful fae including Syv's horrid ex Bastian and they are not only searching for the boxes but for Syv as well. It seems she and her mark are somehow tied to the boxes. The men are all united with the task of keeping he safe but they are adding additional complications. Dex's identity has already been revealed. Now after being friends for years, the Collector also reveals who he is to Syv as well. Confused, scared Syv still recognizes that there is a strength that comes from the five of them being together. Together they can overcome all obstacles, find the boxes and deal with the demons and fae.
Elements of Magic is a great read. Syv is my favorite. She's so complex. She's a force of nature, wreaking havoc. Sarcastic, head-strong, impetuous, clever, confident. But in this book, we get more glimpses into her fragile side. We see her secret fears, her vulnerability. It makes me love her even more. I also fell in love with Col this book. I wasn't sure how I felt about him before. It was clear that he was fond of Syv, protective of her but he was too restrained, too closed off. Getting to know him better, learn some of his past, learn how he truly feels for Syv won me over. His words made me melt. The Dwellers are an unusual group. Dex, the hound is my favorite. I love this oversized shifter. His power, his fierce protectiveness, and his constant concern for Syv, his attraction to her and how much it scares him makes him so lovable. Morgan is difficult. He made headway with me this book but still. His behavior turns me off at times. Cillian is the middleman. I like him but need to know more about him. His and Morgan's powers are impressive.
This story just keeps getting better. The suspense, the mystery, the tension. It's complicated and there's much we still need to know. The mystery surrounding who Syv is, what her power is, and what her connection to the boxes signifies has me obsessing. I desperately want Col to unleash and I need Dex returned to safety. I'm intrigued by Ashton and I want to see Bastian on his knees. I want to collect all of the boxes and see what Syv can do with them. I want Syv and Col to give in. I want Dex to get his chance and for Syv and Cillian to finish what they started. I want to stop being conflicted about Morgan. Obviously, I want the next book!
Elements of Magic is a great read. Syv is my favorite. She's so complex. She's a force of nature, wreaking havoc. Sarcastic, head-strong, impetuous, clever, confident. But in this book, we get more glimpses into her fragile side. We see her secret fears, her vulnerability. It makes me love her even more. I also fell in love with Col this book. I wasn't sure how I felt about him before. It was clear that he was fond of Syv, protective of her but he was too restrained, too closed off. Getting to know him better, learn some of his past, learn how he truly feels for Syv won me over. His words made me melt. The Dwellers are an unusual group. Dex, the hound is my favorite. I love this oversized shifter. His power, his fierce protectiveness, and his constant concern for Syv, his attraction to her and how much it scares him makes him so lovable. Morgan is difficult. He made headway with me this book but still. His behavior turns me off at times. Cillian is the middleman. I like him but need to know more about him. His and Morgan's powers are impressive.
This story just keeps getting better. The suspense, the mystery, the tension. It's complicated and there's much we still need to know. The mystery surrounding who Syv is, what her power is, and what her connection to the boxes signifies has me obsessing. I desperately want Col to unleash and I need Dex returned to safety. I'm intrigued by Ashton and I want to see Bastian on his knees. I want to collect all of the boxes and see what Syv can do with them. I want Syv and Col to give in. I want Dex to get his chance and for Syv and Cillian to finish what they started. I want to stop being conflicted about Morgan. Obviously, I want the next book!
Held by Magic (The Demon's Covenant #1)
Mage (Fringe Realms #1)
Silvercrest Guardians (Daughter of Shadow #2) by
Dragon Soul (Daughter of Shadow #1)
Calla works at the local apothecary but dreams of earning a place at the Royal Apothecary and serving the King as he fights the Ebon Queen in the attempt to save the kingdom. On the day her magic skills are tested, Calla is revealed as a shadowmancer and is taken into custody facing certain death. The girl who has never been able to master any magic has powerful magic, dark magic, Ebon magic. However, three men have been searching for powerful magic users and under the guise of taking her into custody for punishment, smuggle her out of town. Leander, a high-ranking nobleman. Rohan, a warrior of the Order of Lux. Galen, a beautiful Lumen elf. The men take the risk that Calla's dark magic will be able to aid the King's cause in the war against the Ebon queen. As Calla journeys to their stronghold, they encounter deadly enemies, but Calla may be the greatest danger of all. Their bond grows even as the risk increases.
Dragon Soul is a slow burn reverse harem fantasy. Action-packed, sword and sorcery book with a strong heroine, a pet dragon, and irresistible guys. I love this blurb and feel that it is descriptive perfection. Calla is confused, scared, a little lost, and overwhelmed, yet she has spirit. Her pet dragonkin, Luin is awesome. Why can't I have a miniature dragon of my own?? Intelligent, soft, loyal, and loves to eat. I love Luin! Calla's relationship with the men is going to be complicated. Yes, there is an instant attraction. There are also differences of wealth and status, experience, outside interference, and distrust. If they had been able to stay on the road journeying I think they could have gotten close quickly but once back at the stronghold there is definitely a distance between Calla and the men. I also feel that Calla may be in more danger among 'allies' than enemies. At least you know to prepare for enemies.
This first book was strong on world-building, introducing the characters, and laying the story's groundwork. Now that the stage is set, I believe this is going to be an amazing adventure.
Dragon Soul is a slow burn reverse harem fantasy. Action-packed, sword and sorcery book with a strong heroine, a pet dragon, and irresistible guys. I love this blurb and feel that it is descriptive perfection. Calla is confused, scared, a little lost, and overwhelmed, yet she has spirit. Her pet dragonkin, Luin is awesome. Why can't I have a miniature dragon of my own?? Intelligent, soft, loyal, and loves to eat. I love Luin! Calla's relationship with the men is going to be complicated. Yes, there is an instant attraction. There are also differences of wealth and status, experience, outside interference, and distrust. If they had been able to stay on the road journeying I think they could have gotten close quickly but once back at the stronghold there is definitely a distance between Calla and the men. I also feel that Calla may be in more danger among 'allies' than enemies. At least you know to prepare for enemies.
This first book was strong on world-building, introducing the characters, and laying the story's groundwork. Now that the stage is set, I believe this is going to be an amazing adventure.
T -Authors
Yalu Taylor
J.O.Y: Tessandra Young Series
by Yalu Taylors ***REVIEW
Life has not been grand for Tessandra since her 17th birthday. You would think that a girl who has visions could at least see what's ahead for herself, but it doesn't work that way. Her dad left, dropping the bombshell that she's adopted on his way out the door. Her mom told her that as soon as she turns 18 she's on her own, her creepy cousin Peter has moved into the house and then sideswiped her beloved car. She just wants to get through the next year, finish school, and earn some money. What she doesn't need is the complication of 4 new guys arriving at school specifically to find her, giving her information that changes everything she's ever thought about herself, and their past catching up to them all in the most dangerous way.
J.O.Y. has great potential. The premise of a company creating babies to mold into super soldiers each with superpowers is a solid one. The babies all being separated and now trying to locate others for various reasons, the opposing sides, and the lack of surviving female subjects is compelling. The execution has mixed results. Before I break down the story, the book could use more editing. I've seen worse, but it is a bit distracting and shouldn't be. There are a few character issues. Tess's mom. I do not understand the threat of kicking her out as it ties in with the later abduction. Her role is extremely inconsistent. She doesn't make sense. Then there's Sean and Marissa, a supposed couple. The mean girl disappears from the story while her boyfriend makes big moves, starting right in front of her with no reaction. Sean's relationship with Peter. There seems to be no consistency there at all. The other team. Their interactions with Tess seem off the entire time. Plus, other than the mission, each exchange seems rushed or disjointed. I had no issues with the guys, Hunter, Braydon, Zack, and Zayne. I would have liked for the book to slow down so that we could have gotten to spend more time really getting to know the characters, but it wasn't bad for a first book. Tess was difficult to like in the beginning. I respect and like snarky. I do not enjoy prickly. I do not understand female characters who get mad when a guy speaks to them, opens a door or any other considerate act. If you don't like people touching you, it is possible to politely explain that and not be ugly and yell. Honestly, I wouldn't blame the guys if they had decided to keep looking for another remaining girl. One who could be a little more pleasant and use her words to explain her feelings and what she's thinking/worried about. By the end of the book, she had improved somewhat. Beyond her personality, there is a question about her powers. I don't want to spoil anything, although it was easy to guess what her actual power was, it inconveniently didn't work with the bad guys. Why only with the good guys? And why were the guys immune to everything bad but she wasn't? While I like their science-induced powers I would like to see more consistency with Tess's abilities and the side-effects. Healing, especially would provoke major effects but then in the final part of the book during and after the mission, nothing. Major discrepancy with their absence made more obvious because Tess was actually cute and humorous during her earlier episodes. I was waiting to see how her behavior could impact the mission but it never even came into play. Problematic
While the book does have some issues, I believe the potential outweighs its faults. With a little more attention to detail, this could be a very good series. I'm assuming that there will be a second book with the way this one ends. It's not a cliffhanger but the story is definitely not finished. I will definitely read the next one to see what happens next.
J.O.Y. has great potential. The premise of a company creating babies to mold into super soldiers each with superpowers is a solid one. The babies all being separated and now trying to locate others for various reasons, the opposing sides, and the lack of surviving female subjects is compelling. The execution has mixed results. Before I break down the story, the book could use more editing. I've seen worse, but it is a bit distracting and shouldn't be. There are a few character issues. Tess's mom. I do not understand the threat of kicking her out as it ties in with the later abduction. Her role is extremely inconsistent. She doesn't make sense. Then there's Sean and Marissa, a supposed couple. The mean girl disappears from the story while her boyfriend makes big moves, starting right in front of her with no reaction. Sean's relationship with Peter. There seems to be no consistency there at all. The other team. Their interactions with Tess seem off the entire time. Plus, other than the mission, each exchange seems rushed or disjointed. I had no issues with the guys, Hunter, Braydon, Zack, and Zayne. I would have liked for the book to slow down so that we could have gotten to spend more time really getting to know the characters, but it wasn't bad for a first book. Tess was difficult to like in the beginning. I respect and like snarky. I do not enjoy prickly. I do not understand female characters who get mad when a guy speaks to them, opens a door or any other considerate act. If you don't like people touching you, it is possible to politely explain that and not be ugly and yell. Honestly, I wouldn't blame the guys if they had decided to keep looking for another remaining girl. One who could be a little more pleasant and use her words to explain her feelings and what she's thinking/worried about. By the end of the book, she had improved somewhat. Beyond her personality, there is a question about her powers. I don't want to spoil anything, although it was easy to guess what her actual power was, it inconveniently didn't work with the bad guys. Why only with the good guys? And why were the guys immune to everything bad but she wasn't? While I like their science-induced powers I would like to see more consistency with Tess's abilities and the side-effects. Healing, especially would provoke major effects but then in the final part of the book during and after the mission, nothing. Major discrepancy with their absence made more obvious because Tess was actually cute and humorous during her earlier episodes. I was waiting to see how her behavior could impact the mission but it never even came into play. Problematic
While the book does have some issues, I believe the potential outweighs its faults. With a little more attention to detail, this could be a very good series. I'm assuming that there will be a second book with the way this one ends. It's not a cliffhanger but the story is definitely not finished. I will definitely read the next one to see what happens next.
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