Anna Bobs Her Hair - Silent Reader, Talking Books

"Out of the Storm" is an Inspirational historical romance, which may explain why the heroine reminded me of Snow White (just a little bit...so innocent and loving of nature.) I didn't think it was preachy. I do wish there wasn't so much emphasis on physical beauty, which was repeated. His handsome face. Her beautiful as an angel features.

More character development would have been appreciated. Manual labor is a character-builder for the over-privileged and immature hero, but I didn't see his transformation. It just happened. I was afraid the author would make this a 'money is the root of all evil' kind of story, but there isn't a lesson of this sort here.

What I appreciated the most is when the heroine is at her lowest point she finds hope beyond the need for the hero to make her life complete. Kudos to the author on this aspect!

The heroine's father needs some reworking. He's inconsistent and, at one point, irrational. Overall, I would try this author's work again if there's a story/characters that appeal to me.

Kindle Freebie Novella Challenge/Group Read...Goodreads friends: Vicki (2 Stars) and Ian (He's backing slowly away.)

Three sisters - a warrior, an invisible middle child, and a spoiled young princess. The middle sister's story was told in The Mark of the Tala, introducing readers to Tala and 'mossbacks.' The magical kingdom of Annwyn is separate from the Twelve Kingdoms. The imbalance is felt throughout this realm. The first book revealed a few secrets of a mother's sacrifice. "The Tears of a the Rose" continues with the revered Princess Amelia's story.

Renowned for her beauty and heralded as Gloriana's avatar, Princess Amelia met her dashing prince charming in book 1. She has been pampered, sheltered, and treated as an ornament her entire life. Her evolution is from vain princess to shrewd leader was slow-developing, but I felt rewarded for pushing past the dragging character development. Her changed made sense. She found her power. I liked it.

The romance? It's called a beauty and the beast-type of romance. The hero, Ash a.k.a. "the White Monk," is disfigured and severely scarred. His eyes glow with hatred when gazing upon Amelia, yet that hatred (too easily) melts away by one act on Amelia's part. (It was too easy, in my opinion.) Amelia and Ash do have chemistry. Their sexy times were hot. Ash treated like a real woman, not a delicate flower, which the princess truly appreciated some reflection. Their resolution as a couple was too rushed for my tastes, yet I do appreciate the growth Amelia had to experience before they reached their HEA.

"The Tears of of Rose" started as a four-star read. Then, the dragging pace of the princess's development could have made it so easy for me to DNF. While her change came too late I did like who she became and I enjoyed the direction of the ongoing plot. The romance aspect of this book is 2.5 to 3 stars. Their struggle had seemed complex, but it turned into something simple. This book didn't read as a fantasy romance. It's more fantasy fiction with elements of romance. Despite the negatives, I'm very interested in the warrior's sister story and the resolution in this magical world.

 The oldest sister is the warrior and the youngest incomparable beauty. Then, there is Princess Andromeda, the middle child. People will not meet her eyes and she feels invisible. Only in the company of horses does Andi feel comfortable. As she rides her horse farther than her father has allowed her she's confronted by a man who sees what no one else does. He'll lead her into another kingdom. She has a destiny to fulfill, the power to lead, and a beauty all her own.

"The Mark of the Tala" was an enjoyable read. The heroine was compelling, and her story seemed as if it would be a romance; yet, the romance wasn't as strong as the world-building and set-up for The Mark of the Tala series.

This book may not been as strong as I'd hope, but I'm interested in the High King's other two daughters' stories, and would recommend this story to those that crave fantasy with elements of romance. Overall, I'd rate "The Mark of the Tala" with 3.5 stars.

ARC compliments of Kensington via Netgalley (extremely late review)

Finally, Ashwini and Janvier get their story. It was a little too unfocused at the beginning with jumps to Dmitri's POV and Elena's. Plus former H/h's warm dizzied nearly turned the e-ink purple - a lot of the feels, everyone's hearts' aflutter, and reminiscing how broken they use to be yadda yadda yadda (that I didn't need, but some fans enjoy). Then, the story begins to feel seamless and focused on the couple and series arc.

Ashwini's insurmountable goal to happiness was a good one. It was handled well, and Ashwini and Janvier's 'full throttle' approach was refreshing. The best thing about this book in my opinion is the mystery and the teamwork between the h/h. The desiccated victims, the treatment of 'cattle,' and finding justice for the victims was entrancing. I was a little stunned by how erotic certain situations became, especially within one nightclub. It seemed out-of-character for this author, but I went with the flow and enjoyed the other side of the vampire part of this world.

There were many name drops. Potential protagonists? A few regular and peripheral characters are on the edge. Yet with the Psy/Changling's series it took many books until Kaleb found his HEA, which may mean a couple of characters might have to wait.

Despite perceived flaws or stumbling blocks to my reading pleasure, I gobbled the book up! There's still many things to explore in the Guild Hunter world! I'm anxious to see who will be next!

I love how far the Celta Heartmate series has come. Heart Search(Laev T'Hawthorn's story)introduced the beginning of the next generation, which we'd seen as adolescents in earlier books. At last, Antenn Blackthorn-Moss gets the happy ending he has long-craved - struggled under the shadow of his murderous brother, Shade, a character whose actions debased many Noble families - in Heart Fire.

The interactions and dialogue was rich in details I had forgotten in Celta'a past, which shouldn't interfere for new readers, but they do add a complexity to the Celta world for long-time fans. I loved it! It was done so smoothly, without feeling like annoying or token info-dumping.

Religious persecution was a strong theme. This series is a futuristic fantasy romance and the Celtans ancestors fled on starships from Earth to flee the persecution of Wiccan and those with Psi flair, so the theme was profoundly relevant to this particular world. It was well-done!

The romance took a little long. Yet I appreciate how Owens didn't rush the characters to over their personal obstacles. Antenn's poignant HEA brought tears to my eyes and was worth the wait! (I've re-read my favorite scenes several times.) I started reading this book late Saturday night, grabbed some sleep, and had Heart Fire completely read by morning. Definitely worth the wait. This is now one of my favorites in the series!

Heartbreak might be our destiny, but it would be a whole lot easier to deal with if only fate would clear out our memory banks at each rebirth. At least it would allowed hope to burn bright. But after all this time, there was little enough of that left.

After each death, the phoenix is reborn and rises from the ashes with the gift to live one-hundred years and fated to find one love of a lifetime, but cursed to always end in heartache. Emberly Pearson, a phoenix, can foresee death. Cheating death usually has consequences, but Emberly gravely defies the grim reaper each opportunity she has. This time, she rescues the man - the love of her current lifetime - who could not accept the Phoenix and what the life entailed. Both walked away feeling betrayed. The murder of her boss brings the two together again, with seething feelings and continued betrayals, onto the trail of an abomination that could affect and infect the human population.

This is my second attempt at Keri Arthur’s work. I once tried her Riley Jensen series, but the promiscuity and my lack of connection to the heroine was a deciding factor in giving up the series. This attempt was very successful!

The plot is filled mystery - Who developed the red capes? Why? It introduces varies factions: werewolves, fae, vampires, and something other. The moments Emberly and Sam (the love of her lifetime) are not chasing villains. and working with or against one another, their moments are heavy with sexual tension. (I didn’t hate Sam, as other readers have. I think there is hope this situation can be redeemed.) Sam has secrets I feel compelled to discover. Their break-up was brutal and hurtful. There has to be more! I want more!

Back to the plot – There’s action, fights, chase scenes, and a doomed love life. Emberly’s tenacious feelings of hope despite her experiences; the odds stacked against her; and the courage she has to fight for life and love makes her a very compelling character. I want Emberly to prevail! I want her to find happiness!

The writing would be considered tight if not for the continuous break-up woes. (It’s like being with a friend who can’t stop talking about the ex. Let it go, girl! I know it’s not going to happen.) The secondary characters, especially Rory’s mate ( it’s complicated ) and the presence of sexy fae keep the fires burning for Emberly. To clarify - Emberly does not feel sorry for herself; she hurts. I hurt for her too! She is brave and strong! I want book 2…now!

digital public library loan

There are stories left to read, but I think it's safe to give this book a 4 star rating. My library loan has ended and it's time to get back in the queue.

"Silver" - 4 Stars
(This story can stand-alone. For Samuel & Arianna's happy ending, you must read Silver Borne.)

"She contemplated another True Name she had not let escape: Samuel Silverheart. She was named for the metal--Ariana and silver were not always the same. But she feared that the name meant what it sounded like; she could not love a wolf."

This story does not have a happy ending. It is not as sad as I thought it would be; it ends on a hopeful not. "Silver" is a little bit of an origin story (for Bran and Samuel) and a star-crossed love story.

If you have not read the series you need to know that Samuel thought Mercy, a coyote shapeshifter and heroine of the Mercy Thompson series, was the key to his happiness. Mercy's appeal is personality and her ability to have children, which Samuel craves, but female werewolves can't bear. Through many books he meddles in Mercy's life. Then, Poof! His happiness (conveniently) arrives in Silver Borne. Finally, Ariana and Samuel's history and relationship is explained. It's fitting and not as tragic as I thought it would be. "Silver" is about meeting the right person at the wrong time. You also get to see Bran as a human and what he was capable of before he became the Marrok.

[Notes to self: I may need to purchase this book for my Keeper shelf. Also, my library loan ends soon.]

"Fairy Gifts - unread

"Gray" - unread

"Seeing Eye" - unread

"Alpha and Omega - 4 stars

The hope that she wasn't actually talking to the Marrok helped steady her. Even Leo was afraid of the Marrok. She didn't bother to answer his question--he already knew the answer. "I called to talk to the Marrok, but maybe you could help me."

There was a pause, then Bran said, a little regretfully, "I am the Marrok, child."

This short story is the beginning in the Alpha & Omega series. I made the mistake of starting with Cry Wolf and felt dropped into the book too soon; although, it was immerse myself into once I felt oriented. In "Alpha & Omega," Anna is within an abusive pack. She doesn't reach out to the Marrok to save herself, but out of concern for another. Bran sends Charles to investigate and leads into the misdeeds of one dysfunctional pack. Anna and Charles' beginning isn't pretty, but it has a sweet undertone. I especially liked Anna's inner strength and ability to stand up to Bran's "pet killer."

"Why the rolling pin and not a knife?" he asked, his voice raspy with the need for action.

She looked at him for the first time since she'd seen his face on the stairs. "A knife wouldn't even slow him down, but bones take time to heal."

He like that. Who'd have thought he'd get turned on by a woman with a rolling pin?

[Please note: I am biased about this short story, having a deep love of the Alpha & Omega series. After this short, don't forget to read Cry Wolf, [book:Hunting Ground|5292853] Fair Game and the upcoming novel Dead Heat!]

"The Star of David" - 4 stars
This story should have been titled "Redemption" in my opinion. It's the story of a man changed into a werewolf, who returned ignorant to his family with devastating consequences. It's several decades later. The daughter he once horrified needs him. Forget "redemption! "The Forgiven" works better in my head.

"Roses in Winter" - 4 - 4.5 Stars

"Hello, hello," she said. "How is my favorite evil monster who wants to die?"

This story revolves around a thirteen year old girl, Kara, turned into a werewolf and the reasons for certain werewolf laws. Asil, a recurring character, point-of-view dominates "Roses in Winter." There is hope for him yet, along with hints of a possible HEA.

"Redemption" - 4 Stars or B+
(This story contains spoilers in the Mercy Thompson series -best read after Frost Burned.)

Ben had hung a whiteboard on the outside of the cubicle wall next to the entrance of his lair. On it he had written: I know you are here. Wait silently, and I'll get to you as soon as I am able. If you speak before then, you will not find me helpful. On the floor just inside his cubicle was a mat with a pair of black footprints and "Wait here" painted on it.

Even though it's obvious what Ben's damage is we finally given his backstory. He's a foul-mouthed Brit with obvious severe anger issues, but his care of Mercy after one traumatic episode showed his character could be redeemed. In this short story, we see Ben take another step out of his darkness. While his backstory is not pretty - sensitive readers may not feel so sympathetic - Ben's story is surprisingly funny! Who knew he was an IT nerd?

"Hollow" - unread

This library loan was worth the wait. Ben shines. He rallies. His character moves forward. Office cubicles, wolf hearing, an obnoxious IT company guy (Ben), and company politics are too good for any UF reader to pass! I hope we see more of Ben in future Mercy Thompson books.

Parallel universes. Magic vs. Science. Tyranny of Witches vs. Toxic Fallout. Then, there's some young love and angst.

Mercy has battled various being of power. This time, she faced Adam'sex-wife, Christy, a manipulative human being. I didn't expect Adam & Mercy's pack to be so gullible - it didn't fit with this world - but Honey wasn't duped, which made Christy's damsel-in-distress routine easier to swallow. The presence of Honey, Gary Laughingdog, and Coyote provided a few of the best parts of this story. Adam had his moments too, especially the way he expresses his love for Mercy.

Coyote and Gary tantalize with the light they shed on Mercy as a 'walker.' The villain of this story is something very different. (What other beasties, gods, and demons lurk in this world?) There is more to come and I'm anticipating Coyote playing a bigger role in Mercy's life. I also hope Christy finds a place to live far from the pack. Christy, I think, is good for one book only.

Perhaps it's only the last book and this one that makes me feel as if I'm reading Ilona Andrews. It's odd because Briggs' humor never seemed as snarky. Humor, yes, but not as heavily used. This book definitely puts me in the mood for Kate Daniels. It's a good thing.

There are a few unique qualities to this vampire series. Vampires are born (male only). Their mates hold their souls, and if not found by her 30th year she will die.

This book is labeled as paranormal erotic romance. The romance is on the cheesy side. In 57 pages, there really isn’t much time to develop a profound relationship, which doesn't seem the author's goal. At least, the author doesn’t waste readers' time with the h/h fighting the mating. It’s glossed over, which is fine because the story is short. You really have to go with the flow and be in the mood for vampire romance (with one explicit mating ceremony). The fantasy of completing someone’s soul and being the object of his total devotion and sexual possessiveness may hold appeal to certain readers. (he he)

This book did provide my PNR erotic fix in quickie fashion. I didn’t mind the cheese so much. Plus, this book was a freebie. I don’t feel an overwhelming need to continue the series, which will have Ethan’s brothers falling in love. (Ethan gives the clichéd line of how he can’t wait to see his brothers squirm.) However, if I’m in the mood for some paranormal romance with bondage and naughtiness, then I may revisit this series. Each book is only 57 pages, more or less.

Kindle Freebie, as of September 4, 2014

Cooper is one the most dominant wolves in his pack. He has found his mate. Grace, one of the most submissive in the pack felt an attraction to Cooper from day 1, but the wolf side of nature is overwhelmed by Cooper's wolf. Yet, he's patient and has fun courting Grace. He will woo her, while hiding the nightmares that plague him because a dominant pack member is never supposed to be weak.

I loved the main conflict! Cooper was lovingly committed to courting Grace, the woman and wolf. His nightmares too contrived for me. It seemed an unnecessary Achilles heel, but this is only my opinion!

The steam lever is pretty high is this novella. Very hot! After stepping away from this story for a few days helped to move past the subplot. The ending is abrupt, but you can read the "Declaration of Courtship" epilogue at the author's website. It's titled "Dancing with Cooper", which is set during Hawke & Sienna's mating ceremony. Enjoy!

Grade: C+

Good plot with multiple story threads adding complexity to the characters and their relationships. Plus the the plot thickens! Book 2 had the best mystery, but BtS is focused on the character and preparing for book 4, the series conclusion. Binding the Shadows ends with a cliffhanger. It's going to change motivations, add higher stakes, and I'm anxious to read how Bennet will resolve everything.

Next up: Banishing the Dark (book 4 and final book)

Out-of-print! Very expensive mass paperback - $19 Amazon only! Used books cost from $9 (my ordered copy) - $138+. If you see this book at a used book store, get it! If you have it, keep it!

After reading Kindling the Moon I was ready to dive into Arcadia's next adventure with Lon and Jupe, but I wanted all the books before starting Summoning the Night. It was definitely worth the expense and wait. (Good luck finding Binding the Shadows(book 3)! Amazon has the remaining mass paperbacks at $19. BtS is out-of-print, and Amazon is selling the like it's a precious shovel during the Gold Rush!) Anyway, I have all four books on my keeper shelf - read and unread - and dived into book 2 eager for a great story. I was not disappointed!

Thirty years ago, seven children disappeared and the kidnappings have started again. The pressure is on for Arcadia to find the Snatcher before Halloween, when an unknown ritual will be performed and the children are presumed to perish. Cady's instincts to remain hidden conflict with her attachment to her lover, Lon, and precocious son Jupe.

The mystery kept me guessing. Each string Cady pulled led in another direction. I loved not knowing if Cady would save the children in time or whether Jupe would become a victim. Anything could have happened! It kept me on the edge of my seat! "Weeeeeee," squealed this happy little reader!

It seems urban fantasies can't decide whether to focus on the romantic aspects or the characters; and, subsequently, the actual mystery/suspense aspect become predictable. (i.e. Stacia Kane's The Downside Ghost series, which I love, but the mystery is mere fluff, imo. Plus, the reading about a realistically depicted drug addict can be depressing.)

The characters develop with the plot. They express themselves through their actions and dialogue. Bennett can get overly description with the setting, but this is only my opinion. The Arcadia Bell series is very entertaining! The characters feel like ordinary people (with enhanced gifts) placed in extraordinary situations. Their humanity and moral fiber are tested. Each are reaching out to others within their community to help or hinder. They make mistakes. Cady and company are my new addiction!

Next up: Leashing the Tempest (novella, 2.5)

Grade: A
(A book with a permanent place on my Keeper shelf.)

This story can't stand alone. The story picks up soon after book 2. Jupe 'knack' practice experiment and family sightseeing boat tour takes a nighmarish turn. A lesson is learned. Not much character development. Fun for fans of series only.

Lazaro, a secondary character from an earlier novel, lost his Breed Mate, children, and most of his grandchildren due to an earlier villain's plot. He finally gets a happy ending. It's what I expect from this author. This novella was enjoyable and surprisingly steamy compared to other Midnight Breed novels.