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Review Date: 11/13/2009
Helpful Score: 1
Ward has a very popular series called the Black Dagger Brotherhood, and I will get around to reading it one of these days, that has come highly recommended on many fronts. I did read a short story of hers in an anthology once and enjoyed her style. This full-length novel just cemented me as one of her loyal fans. From what I understand, Covet is a spin off of the BDB series, but I didn't feel left out of the loop by starting with this one.
Ward beautifully wove two story lines here. The first is about Jim and his destiny to save humanity during the final battle between good (angels) and bad (demons). The second story line is the romance played out in this book by Vin and Marie-Terese. The plot moved along wonderfully with a smooth and fast pace. The world was rich. The characters are real with flaws. Ward includes enough back story to let the reader in on the goals, motivations, and conflicts within each character.
I'll just leave it with...I loved the book and am looking forward to the next one in the series!
Ward beautifully wove two story lines here. The first is about Jim and his destiny to save humanity during the final battle between good (angels) and bad (demons). The second story line is the romance played out in this book by Vin and Marie-Terese. The plot moved along wonderfully with a smooth and fast pace. The world was rich. The characters are real with flaws. Ward includes enough back story to let the reader in on the goals, motivations, and conflicts within each character.
I'll just leave it with...I loved the book and am looking forward to the next one in the series!
Review Date: 6/23/2009
Helpful Score: 4
I read this in a day and a half, not that it is overly long, but that it was only an okay read. Pacing issues toward the middle remain consistent with this book as it did with the first two. Her setting descriptions continue to be just the right amount to keep you in the story.
The male characters were well drawn. I think Styx is my favorite of the three heroes so far in this series. He's so ancient...a warrior who falls so hard for his love he overcomes an old hatred. The female characters are another story. With this third book, it was even more evident the heroines are cookie cutter molds of each other. Again the heroines dialogue was corny beyond words. This time, it actually pulled me out of the story.
I wont be continuing this series. I gave it three books and while I love the heroes I cant deal with the heroines. Sorry Ms. Ivy, but I dont know any one who uses Cripes, Yowser, and Holy Guacamole in real life and doubt most modern day Chicago citizens do either.
The male characters were well drawn. I think Styx is my favorite of the three heroes so far in this series. He's so ancient...a warrior who falls so hard for his love he overcomes an old hatred. The female characters are another story. With this third book, it was even more evident the heroines are cookie cutter molds of each other. Again the heroines dialogue was corny beyond words. This time, it actually pulled me out of the story.
I wont be continuing this series. I gave it three books and while I love the heroes I cant deal with the heroines. Sorry Ms. Ivy, but I dont know any one who uses Cripes, Yowser, and Holy Guacamole in real life and doubt most modern day Chicago citizens do either.
Dead after Dark: Shadow of the Moon / The Story of Son / Beyond the Night / Midnight Kiss Goodbye
Author:
Book Type: Mass Market Paperback
484
Author:
Book Type: Mass Market Paperback
484
Review Date: 5/1/2009
Helpful Score: 1
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I normally don't buy anthologies...just not much of a short story kinda person I guess. This was the first time I'd read any of the authors.
Shadow of the Moon by Sherrilyn Kenyon was a bit confusing without the Dark-Hunters background but not so much that I couldn't enjoy the story. (This is Fury's story.) It certainly gave me a taste of the Dark-Hunter series and did not disappoint. I'd say this was my second favorite of all four.
The Story of Son by JR Ward was definitely my favorite. From what I understand this story, while in the same world, is separate from the Brotherhood series. I was completely engaged from the first page. I'll be investing in more of Ward's books.
Beyond the Night by Susan Squires was good and while I wasn't disappointed in the story it wasn't on par with the first two. It was about a "ghostly" vampire and moved along fairly well. I'll check out other books by Squires through the library to get a better feel for her style before spending money on her books.
Midnight Kiss Goodbye by Dianna Love had more going on than should have been in a short story. If her goal was to try out characters and settings then she succeeded otherwise she fell short. I've seen her name paired with Kenyon's so my feeling is that she's a friend Kenyon is hoping to launch. Perhaps, she'll improve with experience.
Shadow of the Moon by Sherrilyn Kenyon was a bit confusing without the Dark-Hunters background but not so much that I couldn't enjoy the story. (This is Fury's story.) It certainly gave me a taste of the Dark-Hunter series and did not disappoint. I'd say this was my second favorite of all four.
The Story of Son by JR Ward was definitely my favorite. From what I understand this story, while in the same world, is separate from the Brotherhood series. I was completely engaged from the first page. I'll be investing in more of Ward's books.
Beyond the Night by Susan Squires was good and while I wasn't disappointed in the story it wasn't on par with the first two. It was about a "ghostly" vampire and moved along fairly well. I'll check out other books by Squires through the library to get a better feel for her style before spending money on her books.
Midnight Kiss Goodbye by Dianna Love had more going on than should have been in a short story. If her goal was to try out characters and settings then she succeeded otherwise she fell short. I've seen her name paired with Kenyon's so my feeling is that she's a friend Kenyon is hoping to launch. Perhaps, she'll improve with experience.
Review Date: 6/23/2009
Helpful Score: 2
I enjoyed this book almost as much as the first one. Another single day read for me. It's not as fast paced as the first and there was again some uneven pacing near the middle. Her setting descriptions continue to be just the right amount to keep you in the story.
The characters were well drawn. I loved Viper. He was the proverbial bachelor that fall hard. Shay was an interesting heroine, half demon and half human, however some of her dialogue was a cookie cutter of Abby's from the first book. While "Holy Guacamole" and "Yowser" were corny but plausible when human Abby said (or thought) them they just didn't work coming from century old Shay.
That dialogue was my major complaint for this second book in Ivy's Guardians of Eternity series. I'm still interested in reading the rest of the series.
The characters were well drawn. I loved Viper. He was the proverbial bachelor that fall hard. Shay was an interesting heroine, half demon and half human, however some of her dialogue was a cookie cutter of Abby's from the first book. While "Holy Guacamole" and "Yowser" were corny but plausible when human Abby said (or thought) them they just didn't work coming from century old Shay.
That dialogue was my major complaint for this second book in Ivy's Guardians of Eternity series. I'm still interested in reading the rest of the series.
Review Date: 6/24/2009
Helpful Score: 3
This second book delivered everything the first book did. I thoroughly enjoyed it...stayed up all night to read it because I couldn't put it down.
Fabulous world-building! Both the Vardon (good guys) and Xer (bad guys) societies are well-created, with Knight paying equal attention to both cultures. She didn't depend on any one device too much.
Great characterization including the secondary ones, most of which were described in detail without breaking stride. Riane and Nick fall hard and fast for each other. While the speed at which they fell in love was a bit unrealistic I was able to suspend disbelief for the sake of the story. Riane finds herself stranded in time with only Nick there to help and support her. Once again, Knight has filled the story line with sizzling sex.
This book had more point of views to follow than the first book but Knight wove them together beautifully. Next on my list is to get Warlord which I understand is a prequel of sorts to this series. I can't wait to read more from this world!
Fabulous world-building! Both the Vardon (good guys) and Xer (bad guys) societies are well-created, with Knight paying equal attention to both cultures. She didn't depend on any one device too much.
Great characterization including the secondary ones, most of which were described in detail without breaking stride. Riane and Nick fall hard and fast for each other. While the speed at which they fell in love was a bit unrealistic I was able to suspend disbelief for the sake of the story. Riane finds herself stranded in time with only Nick there to help and support her. Once again, Knight has filled the story line with sizzling sex.
This book had more point of views to follow than the first book but Knight wove them together beautifully. Next on my list is to get Warlord which I understand is a prequel of sorts to this series. I can't wait to read more from this world!
Review Date: 4/29/2009
Helpful Score: 1
I came across Mayhue on Amazon while searching for new authors I might enjoy. When more than one review compared her with Karen Marie Moning, I had to read her books.
Like KMM's Highlander series, Mayhue's stories revolve around hunky Scotsmen, spunky heroines, powerful and often irresponsible Fae (faerie or fairy...so not Tinkerbell), and a happily ever after (HEA). Who could pass that up? Not me!
The series is called the Daughters of the Glen.
Mayhue did a wonderful job weaving incredible but energetic plots with characters who have depth. The heroes (hot, intelligent, and overprotective) and the heroines (smart, witty, and a touch quirky) in this series often reminded me of Moning's. If the Fae legend wasn't so very different from Moning this could easily be considered a spin off of her Highlander series. Moning followers will enjoy this series. Romance and magic beautifully combine to entice the reader in this series. And while each book is a strong stand-alone romance, there is enough back story in each book for the reader to follow, the reading experience is richer when read in order.
Melissa Mayhue has become one of my must buy authors.
Like KMM's Highlander series, Mayhue's stories revolve around hunky Scotsmen, spunky heroines, powerful and often irresponsible Fae (faerie or fairy...so not Tinkerbell), and a happily ever after (HEA). Who could pass that up? Not me!
The series is called the Daughters of the Glen.
Mayhue did a wonderful job weaving incredible but energetic plots with characters who have depth. The heroes (hot, intelligent, and overprotective) and the heroines (smart, witty, and a touch quirky) in this series often reminded me of Moning's. If the Fae legend wasn't so very different from Moning this could easily be considered a spin off of her Highlander series. Moning followers will enjoy this series. Romance and magic beautifully combine to entice the reader in this series. And while each book is a strong stand-alone romance, there is enough back story in each book for the reader to follow, the reading experience is richer when read in order.
Melissa Mayhue has become one of my must buy authors.
Review Date: 4/29/2009
Helpful Score: 3
I came across Mayhue on Amazon while searching for new authors I might enjoy. When more than one review compared her with Karen Marie Moning, I had to read her books.
Like KMM's Highlander series, Mayhue's stories revolve around hunky Scotsmen, spunky heroines, powerful and often irresponsible Fae (faerie or fairy...so not Tinkerbell), and a happily ever after (HEA). Who could pass that up? Not me!
The series is called the Daughters of the Glen.
Mayhue did a wonderful job weaving incredible but energetic plots with characters who have depth. The heroes (hot, intelligent, and overprotective) and the heroines (smart, witty, and a touch quirky) in this series often reminded me of Moning's. If the Fae legend wasn't so very different from Moning this could easily be considered a spin off of her Highlander series. Moning followers will enjoy this series. Romance and magic beautifully combine to entice the reader in this series. And while each book is a strong stand-alone romance, there is enough back story in each book for the reader to follow, the reading experience is richer when read in order.
Melissa Mayhue has become one of my must buy authors.
Like KMM's Highlander series, Mayhue's stories revolve around hunky Scotsmen, spunky heroines, powerful and often irresponsible Fae (faerie or fairy...so not Tinkerbell), and a happily ever after (HEA). Who could pass that up? Not me!
The series is called the Daughters of the Glen.
Mayhue did a wonderful job weaving incredible but energetic plots with characters who have depth. The heroes (hot, intelligent, and overprotective) and the heroines (smart, witty, and a touch quirky) in this series often reminded me of Moning's. If the Fae legend wasn't so very different from Moning this could easily be considered a spin off of her Highlander series. Moning followers will enjoy this series. Romance and magic beautifully combine to entice the reader in this series. And while each book is a strong stand-alone romance, there is enough back story in each book for the reader to follow, the reading experience is richer when read in order.
Melissa Mayhue has become one of my must buy authors.
Review Date: 6/22/2009
Helpful Score: 1
I had held off reading this because it is the second book set in this world and I don't like coming into the middle of a series. There was enough backstory though -- that it was a strong stand alone novel -- and while I want to read more about this world I don't feel I'm missing anything if I don't.
Pleasantly, paranormal in this case didn't equal vampire, werewolf, or some other branch of demon as the hero or heroine. In O'Shea's world there are magical people known as Gineal who live side-by-side with humans while keeping their identity hidden. The troubleshooters of this race fight demons protecting the human race and keeping the demons from being noticed by the population.
The characters were all rich and multi faceted. O'Shea conveys how hard it had been for Maia to give up her powers. Maia's self-confidence is shot. Then there's Creed. He's done something unforgivable (likely in the first book), though he thought it was for the greater good. The last thing these two characters needed was to fall in love with a reluctant partner. They have a beautiful chemistry together. Their love story had a natural progression.
I loved Creed's inner fight to stay on the side of good but have an issue with Creed when he almost killed a couple of teens pulling a prank. Then I was frustrated with Maia when she failed to do anything more than yell at him. But perhaps it was needed to show Maias love for Creed because in the end it shines brightly in his blackest hour.
I thoroughly enjoyed O'Sheas voice. She grabs the reader and doesn't let go. There were a few plot improbabilities and some aspects not completely explained but the story moved along a good pace. Settings were in today's world and weren't overstated. I felt the demons and other dimensions were described enough to get you through the scene, if the world was somewhat loosely strung together, without slowing you down. I definitely plan to read more by Patti O'Shea.
Pleasantly, paranormal in this case didn't equal vampire, werewolf, or some other branch of demon as the hero or heroine. In O'Shea's world there are magical people known as Gineal who live side-by-side with humans while keeping their identity hidden. The troubleshooters of this race fight demons protecting the human race and keeping the demons from being noticed by the population.
The characters were all rich and multi faceted. O'Shea conveys how hard it had been for Maia to give up her powers. Maia's self-confidence is shot. Then there's Creed. He's done something unforgivable (likely in the first book), though he thought it was for the greater good. The last thing these two characters needed was to fall in love with a reluctant partner. They have a beautiful chemistry together. Their love story had a natural progression.
I loved Creed's inner fight to stay on the side of good but have an issue with Creed when he almost killed a couple of teens pulling a prank. Then I was frustrated with Maia when she failed to do anything more than yell at him. But perhaps it was needed to show Maias love for Creed because in the end it shines brightly in his blackest hour.
I thoroughly enjoyed O'Sheas voice. She grabs the reader and doesn't let go. There were a few plot improbabilities and some aspects not completely explained but the story moved along a good pace. Settings were in today's world and weren't overstated. I felt the demons and other dimensions were described enough to get you through the scene, if the world was somewhat loosely strung together, without slowing you down. I definitely plan to read more by Patti O'Shea.
Review Date: 5/23/2009
Helpful Score: 3
This story had everything I look for in a book -- great chemistry between the hero and heroine, life-threatening conflict, emotional depth, and a mystery -- I didn't want it to end!
It's a well paced story about a newly infected warewolf and a dedicated lycan hunter. The world unfolds to the reader as Claire learns about the lycans and the secret society of hunters. It's a vivid world that draws the reader in from page one. While the characters hold you through to the last page. Claire and Gideon have an undeniable chemistry between them. I really related to Claire's shyness and loved her growth though I wanted to shake her in one scene at the end. Secondary characters are also well defined and I really hope to see more of Darius in future of this series.
It is super sexy. The tension is incredibly palpable. It left me panting (pun intended!) for the next installment, Kiss of a Dark Moon.
It's a well paced story about a newly infected warewolf and a dedicated lycan hunter. The world unfolds to the reader as Claire learns about the lycans and the secret society of hunters. It's a vivid world that draws the reader in from page one. While the characters hold you through to the last page. Claire and Gideon have an undeniable chemistry between them. I really related to Claire's shyness and loved her growth though I wanted to shake her in one scene at the end. Secondary characters are also well defined and I really hope to see more of Darius in future of this series.
It is super sexy. The tension is incredibly palpable. It left me panting (pun intended!) for the next installment, Kiss of a Dark Moon.
Review Date: 4/29/2009
Helpful Score: 4
"What if Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf turned out to be the same person?" Intrigued? I sure was.
I was sucked in from word one, page one by this well paced story! A futuristic paranormal romance that was dark, hopeful, and sexy all rolled into one. You have a kick-@$$ heroine and hero that is sexy, tough, noble, and empathetic.
Red is an intense story with compelling characters who endear themselves from page one. Summers has crafted a complex story with a suspenseful plot as important to the story as the steamy romance. The author's website describes her writing as supernatural, urban fantasy, contemporary/suspense, and erotic romance. I'd have to agree this series launch is all that.
-- I need to stress that this book contains some very dark passages. When I read the first chapter of this story I could have easily been starting a murder-thriller. The parts of the story told from the serial killer's point of view, written in first person, put you inside his head, showing in no uncertain terms how demented the villain is.
I was sucked in from word one, page one by this well paced story! A futuristic paranormal romance that was dark, hopeful, and sexy all rolled into one. You have a kick-@$$ heroine and hero that is sexy, tough, noble, and empathetic.
Red is an intense story with compelling characters who endear themselves from page one. Summers has crafted a complex story with a suspenseful plot as important to the story as the steamy romance. The author's website describes her writing as supernatural, urban fantasy, contemporary/suspense, and erotic romance. I'd have to agree this series launch is all that.
-- I need to stress that this book contains some very dark passages. When I read the first chapter of this story I could have easily been starting a murder-thriller. The parts of the story told from the serial killer's point of view, written in first person, put you inside his head, showing in no uncertain terms how demented the villain is.
Review Date: 6/22/2009
I've been waiting to get the first three books before reading this because I don't like reading a series out of order. I didn't need to worry. Even though this is the fourth book in the Paladin series it is a strong stand alone novel. A fast read, of course, I always seem to say that.
I loved that the Paladin, at least in this book, was from Seattle...go Pacific Northwest! Morgan has woven a dark world parallel to our modern day one separated by a barrier reminiscent to the one drawn in Terry Goodkind's Sword of Truth series. From the reviews I read at Amazon, this is the first book in the series to explore the world of the Others. Readers see a humanized Others -- learn their true name -- instead of demonic killers and they aren't strangers anymore. The world and culture are loosely drawn, with just enough to get the reader through the scenes, but that in no way detracts from the story.
Cullen was terrifically drawn. He was heroic, virile, and charming. Once his heart was involved, also fiercely loyal. Lusahn was tough as nails, a leader of her own Blade (a team of warriors), yet she was feminine too. When she fell in love there was no half-way, she loved with every ounce of her being. The love story between the two felt a bit rushed even with the premise they wouldn't see each other ever again once Cullen returned to his world.
Morgan has penned a wonderfully, fresh story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will continue my hunt for the first three in the series (Dark Protector, Dark Defender, and In Darkness Reborn). I will be keeping an eye out for other books by this author!
I loved that the Paladin, at least in this book, was from Seattle...go Pacific Northwest! Morgan has woven a dark world parallel to our modern day one separated by a barrier reminiscent to the one drawn in Terry Goodkind's Sword of Truth series. From the reviews I read at Amazon, this is the first book in the series to explore the world of the Others. Readers see a humanized Others -- learn their true name -- instead of demonic killers and they aren't strangers anymore. The world and culture are loosely drawn, with just enough to get the reader through the scenes, but that in no way detracts from the story.
Cullen was terrifically drawn. He was heroic, virile, and charming. Once his heart was involved, also fiercely loyal. Lusahn was tough as nails, a leader of her own Blade (a team of warriors), yet she was feminine too. When she fell in love there was no half-way, she loved with every ounce of her being. The love story between the two felt a bit rushed even with the premise they wouldn't see each other ever again once Cullen returned to his world.
Morgan has penned a wonderfully, fresh story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will continue my hunt for the first three in the series (Dark Protector, Dark Defender, and In Darkness Reborn). I will be keeping an eye out for other books by this author!
Review Date: 4/29/2009
Helpful Score: 2
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I read it in one sitting and am sure I will reread it again.
This book has a bit of everything -- myth, religious lore, magic, adventure, struggle, and love. The characters engaged me from the start. There's chemistry between Ryan and Allie that keeps them real. The setting descriptions balanced the action without slowing the story down. It was a well paced and fun, first person point of view, ride. I love first person because it really pulls you into the story but I also know it is a challenging way to write and maintain the tension needed for a good story. Anna Katherine (a pseudonym for two friends) manages this well in this debut novel. I look forward to other books by this duo.
This book has a bit of everything -- myth, religious lore, magic, adventure, struggle, and love. The characters engaged me from the start. There's chemistry between Ryan and Allie that keeps them real. The setting descriptions balanced the action without slowing the story down. It was a well paced and fun, first person point of view, ride. I love first person because it really pulls you into the story but I also know it is a challenging way to write and maintain the tension needed for a good story. Anna Katherine (a pseudonym for two friends) manages this well in this debut novel. I look forward to other books by this duo.
Review Date: 9/26/2009
Helpful Score: 6
Viehl hits it out of the park again with this continuation in the Darkyn world. This novel builds on the Darkyn world -- even includes a plot line with characters we know and love from the Darkyn series -- but everything is layered so smoothly that new readers won't have any problem starting with this new series. But be warned, you'll want to read the Darkyn series by the time you're done with Shadowlight and waiting for the next Kyndred book!
Shadowlight is an edge-of-the-seat tale with trouble at every turn and characters who find out that everything they thought was true isn't. Viehl's characters are three-dimensional making you understand and even sympathize with them, something not limited to the hero/heroine.
And, of course, there is the romance. The hero, Matthias, was amazing. The mystery of his past is really, really cool. The heroine, Jessa, was a wonderful mix of strength and vulnerability. It's hard to write a review and not give too much away, but I loved these characters. Rowan, a secondary character in this book but heroine in the next, was a special treat. She stole the show more often than not, LOL.
Overall it was a fast-paced read. The set-up was a bit slow with a little back and forth along the time line but well done. I read this in a single day and didn't want it to end. Viehl included the necessary back story without bogging down the pace of this story. And in typical fashion, Viehl threw in an incredible twist at the end hooking me completely (as if I wouldn't continue the series!) into the next book Dreamveil -- which can't come out soon enough.
Shadowlight is an edge-of-the-seat tale with trouble at every turn and characters who find out that everything they thought was true isn't. Viehl's characters are three-dimensional making you understand and even sympathize with them, something not limited to the hero/heroine.
And, of course, there is the romance. The hero, Matthias, was amazing. The mystery of his past is really, really cool. The heroine, Jessa, was a wonderful mix of strength and vulnerability. It's hard to write a review and not give too much away, but I loved these characters. Rowan, a secondary character in this book but heroine in the next, was a special treat. She stole the show more often than not, LOL.
Overall it was a fast-paced read. The set-up was a bit slow with a little back and forth along the time line but well done. I read this in a single day and didn't want it to end. Viehl included the necessary back story without bogging down the pace of this story. And in typical fashion, Viehl threw in an incredible twist at the end hooking me completely (as if I wouldn't continue the series!) into the next book Dreamveil -- which can't come out soon enough.
Review Date: 4/29/2009
Helpful Score: 4
I came across Mayhue on Amazon while searching for new authors I might enjoy. When more than one review compared her with Karen Marie Moning, I had to read her books.
Like KMM's Highlander series, Mayhue's stories revolve around hunky Scotsmen, spunky heroines, powerful and often irresponsible Fae (faerie or fairy...so not Tinkerbell), and a happily ever after (HEA). Who could pass that up? Not me!
The series is called the Daughters of the Glen.
Mayhue did a wonderful job weaving incredible but energetic plots with characters who have depth. The heroes (hot, intelligent, and overprotective) and the heroines (smart, witty, and a touch quirky) in this series often reminded me of Moning's. If the Fae legend wasn't so very different from Moning this could easily be considered a spin off of her Highlander series. Moning followers will enjoy this series. Romance and magic beautifully combine to entice the reader in this series. And while each book is a strong stand-alone romance, there is enough back story in each book for the reader to follow, the reading experience is richer when read in order.
Melissa Mayhue has become one of my must buy authors.
Like KMM's Highlander series, Mayhue's stories revolve around hunky Scotsmen, spunky heroines, powerful and often irresponsible Fae (faerie or fairy...so not Tinkerbell), and a happily ever after (HEA). Who could pass that up? Not me!
The series is called the Daughters of the Glen.
Mayhue did a wonderful job weaving incredible but energetic plots with characters who have depth. The heroes (hot, intelligent, and overprotective) and the heroines (smart, witty, and a touch quirky) in this series often reminded me of Moning's. If the Fae legend wasn't so very different from Moning this could easily be considered a spin off of her Highlander series. Moning followers will enjoy this series. Romance and magic beautifully combine to entice the reader in this series. And while each book is a strong stand-alone romance, there is enough back story in each book for the reader to follow, the reading experience is richer when read in order.
Melissa Mayhue has become one of my must buy authors.
Review Date: 5/23/2009
Helpful Score: 2
I really hesitated to start this book. Deerskin (the only previous experience I had with this author) was a particularly dark story for a young adult book, and perhaps I was too young to appreciate it at the time, but I was pleasantly surprised by Sunshine. The book was a well paced first person narrative and pulled me right along.
Unfortunately, narrative is the key word for a good part of the book. The author tells, in a rather passive voice, the story leaving very little showing, even in the action scenes. Half the suspense of reading this book is letting the story unfold and meander at the narrator's own pace.
My main problem was the large exposition dumps. I was constantly thrown out of the flow of the story and I'm not sure that all that information was necessary. Sunshine's first person voice was difficult to sympathize with. (Which is hard for me to say because I love first person point-of-view.) She came across somewhat childish for a woman in her mid to late twenties and a bit whiny. The secondary characters were never fleshed out. Mel's a great example. Here's this intriguing guy, a bit of a bad-boy but also a cook, and you know he's got something going on, but what? The vampires are loathsome creatures that don't share a lot with humans other than looking basically human. And Con's head is one I'd love to get inside of.
Sunshine's universe, is at once familiar, yet different enough to be confusing on occasion. Sunshine uses terminology familiar to her world while giving minimal explanation to the reader. I came away with the feeling the author assumed the reader had a brain therefore didn't hand all the information on a platter. It was a rather refreshing experience.
I suspect this is a story that becomes richer with each re-read. I find myself in the curious position of having liked Sunshine in spite of itself. So, perhaps, I will re-read Deerskin and pick up some more of McKinley's novels.
Unfortunately, narrative is the key word for a good part of the book. The author tells, in a rather passive voice, the story leaving very little showing, even in the action scenes. Half the suspense of reading this book is letting the story unfold and meander at the narrator's own pace.
My main problem was the large exposition dumps. I was constantly thrown out of the flow of the story and I'm not sure that all that information was necessary. Sunshine's first person voice was difficult to sympathize with. (Which is hard for me to say because I love first person point-of-view.) She came across somewhat childish for a woman in her mid to late twenties and a bit whiny. The secondary characters were never fleshed out. Mel's a great example. Here's this intriguing guy, a bit of a bad-boy but also a cook, and you know he's got something going on, but what? The vampires are loathsome creatures that don't share a lot with humans other than looking basically human. And Con's head is one I'd love to get inside of.
Sunshine's universe, is at once familiar, yet different enough to be confusing on occasion. Sunshine uses terminology familiar to her world while giving minimal explanation to the reader. I came away with the feeling the author assumed the reader had a brain therefore didn't hand all the information on a platter. It was a rather refreshing experience.
I suspect this is a story that becomes richer with each re-read. I find myself in the curious position of having liked Sunshine in spite of itself. So, perhaps, I will re-read Deerskin and pick up some more of McKinley's novels.
Thirty Nights with a Highland Husband (Daughters of the Glen, Bk 1)
Author:
Book Type: Mass Market Paperback
225
Author:
Book Type: Mass Market Paperback
225
Review Date: 4/29/2009
Helpful Score: 3
I came across Mayhue on Amazon while searching for new authors I might enjoy. When more than one review compared her with Karen Marie Moning, I had to read her books.
Like KMM's Highlander series, Mayhue's stories revolve around hunky Scotsmen, spunky heroines, powerful and often irresponsible Fae (faerie or fairy...so not Tinkerbell), and a happily ever after (HEA). Who could pass that up? Not me!
The series is called the Daughters of the Glen.
Mayhue did a wonderful job weaving incredible but energetic plots with characters who have depth. The heroes (hot, intelligent, and overprotective) and the heroines (smart, witty, and a touch quirky) in this series often reminded me of Moning's. If the Fae legend wasn't so very different from Moning this could easily be considered a spin off of her Highlander series. Moning followers will enjoy this series. Romance and magic beautifully combine to entice the reader in this series. And while each book is a strong stand-alone romance, there is enough back story in each book for the reader to follow, the reading experience is richer when read in order.
Melissa Mayhue has become one of my must buy authors.
Like KMM's Highlander series, Mayhue's stories revolve around hunky Scotsmen, spunky heroines, powerful and often irresponsible Fae (faerie or fairy...so not Tinkerbell), and a happily ever after (HEA). Who could pass that up? Not me!
The series is called the Daughters of the Glen.
Mayhue did a wonderful job weaving incredible but energetic plots with characters who have depth. The heroes (hot, intelligent, and overprotective) and the heroines (smart, witty, and a touch quirky) in this series often reminded me of Moning's. If the Fae legend wasn't so very different from Moning this could easily be considered a spin off of her Highlander series. Moning followers will enjoy this series. Romance and magic beautifully combine to entice the reader in this series. And while each book is a strong stand-alone romance, there is enough back story in each book for the reader to follow, the reading experience is richer when read in order.
Melissa Mayhue has become one of my must buy authors.
Review Date: 11/13/2009
This book is Zannini's debut novel and she hit it out of the park. Even my non book reading hubby liked it!
The world is unique and fully developed. I loved the references to the pre-apocalyptic world. Zannini wove a fascinating plot full of suspense and I was pulled into the story from the first sentence.
Leda is both sardonic and feisty. Her eventual partner, Greyhawk Tams is equally strong minded. One of the joys of the book is watching their relationship develop. The tension between these two characters is simply captivating.
This book ends with a hook that demands a sequel and Zannini can't write it fast enough.
The world is unique and fully developed. I loved the references to the pre-apocalyptic world. Zannini wove a fascinating plot full of suspense and I was pulled into the story from the first sentence.
Leda is both sardonic and feisty. Her eventual partner, Greyhawk Tams is equally strong minded. One of the joys of the book is watching their relationship develop. The tension between these two characters is simply captivating.
This book ends with a hook that demands a sequel and Zannini can't write it fast enough.
Review Date: 6/6/2009
Helpful Score: 12
Okay, first off, this was so much better than her Mageverse series so I'm thinking Knight is at her best when writing futuristic stories.
I haven't read Jane's Warlord, which I understand is a prequel of sorts to this series, so I came into this blind. The book stands alone beautifully, but it leaves you wanting more of this world. In fact, Warlord, which includes Jane's Warlord and Warfem, is on my to buy list!
Fabulous world-building! The Vardon (good guys) society was well-created, with just enough detail. Then we see into the Xer (bad guys) culture, where she paid equal attention to detail. She didn't depend on any one device too much.
Great characterization including the secondary ones, most of which were described in detail without breaking stride. Jessica and Galar fell for each other hard, but I could see why so it was believable. Jessica was alone in a strange world where Galar became her rock. Galar finds Jessica so different from the women of his time and her emotional honesty was just what the doctor ordered. Guess that all adds up to equal hot sex. Who knew?!
My big disappoint was the moment the spy was revealed. The first time you get inside the traitor's head, there's no indication of who he was. I anticipated being strung along for a while, kept guessing, but that tension wasn't to be. If you make a point of not telling me the first time, I expect to find out in the heat of the moment.
I think this has to be one of the best organized books I've read in a long time. I can't wait to read more from this world -- Guardian is next up in this series -- a trilogy.
I haven't read Jane's Warlord, which I understand is a prequel of sorts to this series, so I came into this blind. The book stands alone beautifully, but it leaves you wanting more of this world. In fact, Warlord, which includes Jane's Warlord and Warfem, is on my to buy list!
Fabulous world-building! The Vardon (good guys) society was well-created, with just enough detail. Then we see into the Xer (bad guys) culture, where she paid equal attention to detail. She didn't depend on any one device too much.
Great characterization including the secondary ones, most of which were described in detail without breaking stride. Jessica and Galar fell for each other hard, but I could see why so it was believable. Jessica was alone in a strange world where Galar became her rock. Galar finds Jessica so different from the women of his time and her emotional honesty was just what the doctor ordered. Guess that all adds up to equal hot sex. Who knew?!
My big disappoint was the moment the spy was revealed. The first time you get inside the traitor's head, there's no indication of who he was. I anticipated being strung along for a while, kept guessing, but that tension wasn't to be. If you make a point of not telling me the first time, I expect to find out in the heat of the moment.
I think this has to be one of the best organized books I've read in a long time. I can't wait to read more from this world -- Guardian is next up in this series -- a trilogy.
Review Date: 6/3/2009
Helpful Score: 1
This is the first book I've read by Jenna Black. While it was a quick read, it was a slow start and I didn't really get into the story until Hannah showed up. I enjoyed the premise of Killers, vampires who have succumbed to the beast and kill humans indiscriminately, vs. Guardians, vampires who hold on to their humanity by not feeding on humans or, if they do, feed only off the criminal population.
Gray was just a so-so hero, however. He was weak in comparison to the other vampires, which wasn't necessarily a problem, but he needed a backbone. Carolyn definitely wore the pants in that relationship where I prefer my heroes a bit more alpha. The secondary vampire characters of Jules, an older vampire who still keeps in touch with his mortal descendants, and Drake, a Killer who helps the Guardians were better received. I loved the relationship between Carolyn and Hannah -- some of the dialogue could have been between me and my best friend -- for me these two characters were fully developed and, while the other characters were also well done, stole the story.
I think my biggest problem with this book was that I had a hard time with the love story of Gray and Carolyn. Carolyn says throughout the story how Gray is/was the love of her life yet there are references to bitter fights in the weeks leading up to their wedding. I just couldn't believe in the "I forgive you everything" premise. The plot had all the usual romance pieces but was nothing extraordinary.
Gray was just a so-so hero, however. He was weak in comparison to the other vampires, which wasn't necessarily a problem, but he needed a backbone. Carolyn definitely wore the pants in that relationship where I prefer my heroes a bit more alpha. The secondary vampire characters of Jules, an older vampire who still keeps in touch with his mortal descendants, and Drake, a Killer who helps the Guardians were better received. I loved the relationship between Carolyn and Hannah -- some of the dialogue could have been between me and my best friend -- for me these two characters were fully developed and, while the other characters were also well done, stole the story.
I think my biggest problem with this book was that I had a hard time with the love story of Gray and Carolyn. Carolyn says throughout the story how Gray is/was the love of her life yet there are references to bitter fights in the weeks leading up to their wedding. I just couldn't believe in the "I forgive you everything" premise. The plot had all the usual romance pieces but was nothing extraordinary.
Review Date: 4/29/2009
Helpful Score: 2
I was pleasantly surprised by When Darkness Comes by Alexandra Ivy which is the first book in her Guardians of Eternity series.
Ivy has woven a very compelling story. The writing is well done and fast paced. The book starts with a bang. There is a bit of uneven pacing toward the middle of the book but it's not overly obvious. I polished this book off in a single day.
The characters are well written with an undeniable chemistry between Dante and Abby. Abby is very funny and Dante is sarcastic. The banter between the pair really brings them to life and is refreshing, more like two people on the first few dates rather than ancient warrior and unwilling heroine. Though I could have done without the constant reminders of Abby's terrible childhood. The secondary characters are well fleshed out, not two-dimensional, with motivations explained. Her setting descriptions are just the right amount to keep you in the story.
I'm looking forward to reading the next books in this series: #2 Embrace the Darkness, #3 Darkness Everlasting, and #4 Darkness Revealed.
Ivy has woven a very compelling story. The writing is well done and fast paced. The book starts with a bang. There is a bit of uneven pacing toward the middle of the book but it's not overly obvious. I polished this book off in a single day.
The characters are well written with an undeniable chemistry between Dante and Abby. Abby is very funny and Dante is sarcastic. The banter between the pair really brings them to life and is refreshing, more like two people on the first few dates rather than ancient warrior and unwilling heroine. Though I could have done without the constant reminders of Abby's terrible childhood. The secondary characters are well fleshed out, not two-dimensional, with motivations explained. Her setting descriptions are just the right amount to keep you in the story.
I'm looking forward to reading the next books in this series: #2 Embrace the Darkness, #3 Darkness Everlasting, and #4 Darkness Revealed.
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