Mel's Random Reviews

Early Review: Pure

2012-02-10T11:00:00.020Z

Pure

- Julianna Baggott

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing – released on 8^th February 2012

E-Arc courtesy of netgalley and Grand Central

We know you are here, our brothers and sisters . . .
Pressia barely remembers the Detonations or much about life during the Before. In her sleeping cabinet behind the rubble of an old barbershop where she lives with her grandfather, she thinks about what is lost-how the world went from amusement parks, movie theaters, birthday parties, fathers and mothers . . . to ash and dust, scars, permanent burns, and fused, damaged bodies. And now, at an age when everyone is required to turn themselves over to the militia to either be trained as a soldier or, if they are too damaged and weak, to be used as live targets, Pressia can no longer pretend to be small. Pressia is on the run.

Burn a Pure and Breathe the Ash . . .
There are those who escaped the apocalypse unmarked. Pures. They are tucked safely inside the Dome that protects their healthy, superior bodies. Yet Partridge, whose father is one of the most influential men in the Dome, feels isolated and lonely. Different. He thinks about loss-maybe just because his family is broken; his father is emotionally distant; his brother killed himself; and his mother never made it inside their shelter. Or maybe it's his claustrophobia: his feeling that this Dome has become a swaddling of intensely rigid order. So when a slipped phrase suggests his mother might still be alive, Partridge risks his life to leave the Dome to find her.

When Pressia meets Partridge, their worlds shatter all over again

The post-apocalyptic scenario and/or dystopian environments with strict overlords is a pretty common theme in YA books these days, so at first this may not seem that different from many others, but I would beg to differ. This is raw, dirty and emotional. Set just ten years after the explosions that ended the world, those inside the Dome when the explosions happened are safe, living restricted lives waiting for their chance to retake the outside world when it’s safe. However, not everyone made to safety in time. Those outside who survived have been marked by the explosions...fused to whatever they happened to be close to at the time – whether that was a doll, a hand-fan, the earth itself, or their children...

Unlike other books, the consequences of those blasts are something the survivors have to live with everyday. The world is dangerous and difficult, even our heroine, Pressia, has a dolls head in place of a hand. Inside the dome, life isn’t much easier. Everything is regulated and their bodies and minds are given coding to make them more manageable. The start of the book is slow reading as this world is set up, but before long I was staying up late to read a few more pages. Survival is key to daily life, but the past over-shadows everything. There is much to discover about this world, about the past, about the possibilities for the future.

There is plenty of action as Pressia and Partridge find each other and are separated as survival and discovery conflict with each other. The writing surrounds you after a few sentences, creating this beautifully grotesque world and a story that won’t let you leave. I loved the characters especially Pressia and Partridge, but also the others who are introduced from Ingership to Bradwell to Lydia and especially El Capitain who all feel like complete people that I just haven’t spent as much time with. But I want too! I will be looking out for more books in this series.

Recommended for fans of Suzanne Collins and Patrick Ness. 9 out of 10.

PS - What is it with male leads being named after birds recently...? :)

Throwback Thursday #41 - Hounded

2012-02-09T11:00:00.012Z

This is a great feature that Melissa at My World...in words and pictures has been doing for a while and I wanted to jump on board! There are plenty of books out there I desperately want...

But what about all those wonderful books that are ALREADY on my shelves?

Hounded - Kevin Hearne

Atticus O’Sullivan, last of the Druids, lives peacefully in Arizona, running an occult bookshop and shape-shifting in his spare time to hunt with his Irish wolfhound. His neighbors and customers think that this handsome, tattooed Irish dude is about twenty-one years old—when in actuality, he’s twenty-one centuries old. Not to mention: He draws his power from the earth, possesses a sharp wit, and wields an even sharper magical sword known as Fragarach, the Answerer.
Unfortunately, a very angry Celtic god wants that sword, and he’s hounded Atticus for centuries. Now the determined deity has tracked him down, and Atticus will need all his power—plus the help of a seductive goddess of death, his vampire and werewolf team of attorneys, a sexy bartender possessed by a Hindu witch, and some good old-fashioned luck of the Irish—to kick some Celtic arse and deliver himself from evil.

I WANT to read this! I'm so sure I will love it I've even got the next two books in the series on the shelves already. But it's the balance between books I want to read vs mixing up my genres...plus of course the sheer number of books I want to read on my TBR pile...so should I read this series soon..? What do you think? :)

Guest Review: Horns

2012-02-08T11:00:00.024Z

My guest reviewer, Sarah is back with a book that I think I need to get my hands on soon...

Horns

- Joe Hill

Publisher: UK- Gollancz

Ignatius William Perrish wakes up bleary and confused after a night of drinking and "doing terrible things" to find he has grown horns. In addition to being horribly unsightly, these inflamed protuberances give Ig an equally ugly power--if he thinks hard enough, he can make people admit things (intimate, embarrassing, I-can't-believe-you-just-said-that details). This bizarre affliction is of particular use to Ig, who is still grieving over the murder of his childhood sweetheart (a grisly act the entire town, including his family, believes he committed). Ig's attempts to track down the killer result in hilariously inappropriate admissions from the community, heartbreaking confessions from his own family, and of course, one hell of a showdown.

Horns was one of those books that had been on my Amazon wishlist for a while, I got bought for Christmas, looked at the back and went ‘hmmmm’. And then I started reading it…..

Horns is the story of the once-good, now-blighted life of Igantius Perrish, or Ig – a decent, normal bloke who a year before the story was set, was arrested and accused of the brutal rape and murder of his girlfriend Merrin. A fire at the lab examining the evidence meant that no case could be brought against him, and Ig was released. A year later and Ig is a shadow of his former self, living in a shabby flat with a dead-end girlfriend, surrounded by people convinced of his guilt. He hates his life, hates the accusations, and then, he wakes up with horns. Devil horns. Horns that make everyone he meets tell him their deepest, darkest secrets. Horns that allow Ig to manipulate people into doing dark deeds.

This story is quite simply, brilliant. It’s fiendishly dark, often gory, swinging between hope and despair in a whirlwind ride. At times you are afraid of Ig, only to love him all over again a chapter later. How would you deal with those you know and love spilling their darkest desires and thoughts to you? Could you deal with it?

Lighter moments keep Horns from being depressive, but it is utterly heart-breaking in places and at one point I was sitting on a packed commuter train with tears running down my face. It is also an intelligent, lucid look at Heaven and Hell, God and the Devil. After all, if God hates sinners, and the Devil punishes them, aren’t they kind of on the same side?????

One for Stephen King fans, but I would recommend it to everyone, 9.5 out of 10.

Same Book/Different Cover: The Hunger Games

2012-02-07T11:00:00.091Z

This is an occasional feature where I compare different covers of the same book...what I'm particularly interested in are re-issued covers for the same book and recently foreign editions.
This month I'm looking the covers of a very popular book - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. I have to confess I haven't read it as yet but I do plan to pick it up before the film comes out and find out all about this Katniss I've been hearing about! In the meantime, lets have a look at those covers!

US Paperback

US Hardcover

UK Paperback

Italian Paperback

Chinese Cover

German Paperback

Film Tie In Cover

US Hardcover - The bird-arrow symbol is interesting but I don't like the font very much. It's very blocky.

US Paperback - the girl is just glimpsed almost through the cover and there are blood splatters over the cover. I like the target but overall, this isn't a very interesting cover to me

UK Paperback - I don't really like the big picture of the girl through the HG letters - it seems cartoon-y and I don't connect to her at all. I think this is my least my favourite cover, which is a shame as it's also the one I actually own.

German Cover - A closeup of a girl hiding behind a tree with some blood on the leaves...it's nice to see some colour in some of these covers.

Italian Cover - the girl on the font of this looks like a zombie to me! A very scary cover that makes The Hunger Games look like a horror story...

Chinese Cover - Again I like the bird-arrow motif which takes centre stage. The background is light and misty with two indistinct figures running through the woods. Very visual and different from anything I've seen for a while.

Film Tie In - I don't normally like film tie-in covers but this is actually really striking. The black background with the close up bird-arrow motif in gold is clear, beautiful and intriguing. It makes me want to know more about the book!

My Verdict - I like the Chinese and Film Tie in ones best. I think the simpleness of the Film Tie just beats out over the woods - it elegant and one I would love to have on my bookcase!

Which cover do you prefer? :)

How To Live Safely In A Science-Fictional Universe Review

2012-02-06T11:00:00.010Z

How To Live Safely In A Science-Fictional Universe

- Charles Yu

Kindle Book

Minor Universe 31 is a vast story-space on the outskirts of fiction, where paradox fluctuates like the stock market, lonely sexbots beckon failed protagonists, and time travel is serious business. Every day, people get into time machines and try to do the one thing they should never do: change the past. That’s where Charles Yu, time travel technician—part counselor, part gadget repair man—steps in. He helps save people from themselves. Literally. When he’s not taking client calls or consoling his boss, Phil, who could really use an upgrade, Yu visits his mother (stuck in a one-hour cycle of time, she makes dinner over and over and over) and searches for his father, who invented time travel and then vanished. Accompanied by TAMMY, an operating system with low self-esteem, and Ed, a nonexistent but ontologically valid dog, Yu sets out, and back, and beyond, in order to find the one day where he and his father can meet in memory..

This is a hard book to describe. Set in a universe where there wasn’t quite enough reality to make it work properly, the universe seems to struggle by using science fiction tropes as filler, which basically means the line between real and not, is fine and difficult to spot. Charles Yu is our narrator, continually stuck between the present and the past and working as a time machine repair man with just his imaginary dog and a female simulated personality computer for company. Charles can’t seem to live in the present so he spends most of time in his time machine until he is called home to have his machine serviced...

This book is weird. It is part philosophical pondering and part a search for lost family, but most of it seems to rely on clever verb and idea conjugation. I have to admit I never found myself fully committed to the story as I couldn’t relax and let it flow around me. It feels like a very worthy book, however I read mostly to distract myself from my commute and as such this book didn’t really work for me. That’s not to say others won’t enjoy it – indeed some elements especially in the second half of the book were exciting and an interesting twist on the whole seeing your earlier self in time travel. There was also an amusing incident early on with a certain L. Skywalker, but overall I never felt like the thought provoking elements sat easily next to the basic search for his father.

I wanted to like this book a lot more than I did. I certainly feel it will work well for others but I’m a simple reader – I like action, I like plot and I like characters. Soul searching when done away from any excitement does not hold my interest. Somehow though I feel like this is more my own failing than the book itself.

Recommended for fans of Hannu Rajaniemi and Simon Morden. 5 out of 10

My Book Haul/In My Mailbox

2012-02-05T07:00:00.031Z

The Story Siren hosts a weekly meme where bloggers can share what goodies they've purchased/received this week. If you get a chance head over to The Story Siren and check out what everyone is up to!

First Grave On The Right - Darynda Jones

Publisher: UK - Piatkus

Charley sees dead people. That’s right, she sees dead people. And it’s her job to convince them to “go into the light.” But when these very dead people have died under less than ideal circumstances (i.e. murder), sometimes they want Charley to bring the bad guys to justice. Complicating matters are the intensely hot dreams she’s been having about an Entity who has been following her all her life…and it turns out he might not be dead after all. In fact, he might be something else entirely.

I LOVE The Works. I've wanted this book for ages - even more so since I read reviews of it from some of my favourite bloggers so imagine how excited I was when I spotted in The Works last Sunday for the low, low price of £1.99 or 2 for £3! Can't wait to start this series now!

Feast of Fools (Morganville Vampires 4) - Rachel Caine

Publisher: UK - Allison & Busby

In the town of Morganville, vampires and humans live in relative peace. Student Claire Danvers has never been convinced, though especially with the arrival of Mr. Bishop, an ancient, old-school vampire who cares nothing about harmony. What he wants from the town's living and its dead is unthinkably sinister. It's only at a formal ball, attended by vampires and their human dates, that Claire realizes the elaborately evil trap he's set for Morganville.

This is the other book I got at The Works - I haven't read any of the Morganville books but I now own the first four so I really hope I will like them! Pretty sure I will though as Jess at Book Passion for Life has been raving about them recently!

The Last Four Things - Paul Hoffman

Publisher: UK - Penguin

Death, Judgement, Heaven and Hell. These are the Last Four Things. Now there are Five. Meet Thomas Cale. Returning to the Sanctuary of the Redeemers, Thomas Cale is told by the Lord Militant that the destruction of mankind is necessary; the only way to undo God's greatest mistake. Cale seemingly accepts his role in the ending of the world: fate has painted him as the Left Hand of God, the Angel of Death. Absolute power is within his grasp, the terrifying zeal and military might of the Redeemers a weapon for him to handle as simply as he once used a knife. But perhaps not even the grim power that the Redeemers hold over Cale is enough - the boy who turns from love to poisonous hatred in a heartbeat, the boy who switches between kindness and sheer violence in the blink of an eye. The annihilation that the Redeemers seek may well be in Cale's hands - but his soul is far stranger than they could ever know.

I actually recieved this unasked from Penguin for review. Biazzarely I have read the first book in the seriers a couple of years ago but don't remember much about it...but I haven't read any fantasy for a while so this could break my fantasy fast! :)

So what have you picked up this week?

On My Wishlist #73

2012-02-04T07:00:00.046Z

This is a meme from Book Chick City. There are so many books out there that I want to read that this is the only way I can keep track! This week there are some books I've had my eye on for a while - hopefully I can pick them up soon! :)

Hunting Lila - Sarah Alderson

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

17-year-old Lila has two secrets she's prepared to take to the grave. The first is that she can move things just by looking at them. The second is that she's been in love with her brother's best friend, Alex, since forever. After a mugging exposes her unique ability, Lila decides to run to the only people she can trust - her brother and Alex. They live in Southern California where they work for a secret organisation called The Unit, and Lila discovers that the two of them are hunting down the men who murdered her mother five years before. And that they've found them. In a world where nothing and no one is quite as they seem, Lila quickly realises that she is not alone - there are others out there just like her - people with special powers -and her mother's killer is one of them.

I've heard lots of positive things about this book and it sounds very exciting!

A Bad Day for Sorry - Sophie Littlefield

Publisher: Minotaur Books

Stella Hardesty, our salty, unlikely heroine, runs a sewing shop in rural Missouri. She also has a side business helping battered women with their abusive boyfriends and husbands. When Chrissy Shaw asks Stella for help, it seems like a straightforward case, until Chrissy’s no-good husband disappears with her two-year-old son. Now Stella finds herself in a battle against a more formidable enemy as she risks her own life to recover the boy.

Having finished Sophie Littlefield's Aftertime trilogy, I'm anxious to read more books by her and this sounds like it could be as emotional as the Aftertime series was.

Fated - Sarah Alderson

Publisher: Simon Schuster

What happens when you discover you aren't who you thought you were? And that the person you love is the person who will betray you? If your fate is already determined, can you fight it?
When Evie Tremain discovers that she’s the last in a long line of Demon slayers and that she’s being hunted by an elite band of assassins –Shapeshifters, Vampires and Mixen demons amongst them – she knows she can’t run. They’ll find her wherever she goes. Instead she must learn to stand and fight.
But when the half-human, half-Shadow Warrior Lucas Gray - is sent to spy on Evie and then ordered to kill her before she can fulfil a dangerous prophecy, their fates become inextricably linked. The war that has raged for one thousand years between humans and demons is about to reach a devastating and inevitable conclusion. Either one or both of them will die before this war ends.

This sounds like Buffy which was one of my favourite TV series ever.

What are you wishing for this week? :)

At The House Of The Magician Review

2012-02-03T11:00:00.009Z

At The House Of The Magician

- Mary Hooper

Publisher: Bloomsbury

Poor runaway during the Elizabethan period, Lucy does not have many options. Her luck finally turns when she is taken on as a maid in the household of Dr. Dee, court magician to Queen Elizabeth I. The household is strange and sinister, and Lucy has a nose for intrigue. So when she stumbled across a plot to assassinate the queen, Lucy must find means to warn her . . . before it's too late.

Escaping from her abusive Father, Lucy manages to find employment as a nursemaid at the house of Dr Dee – mystic and confidant to Elizabeth I. But is Dr Dee truly mystical or is just a clever fake?

I am a recent convert to Mary Hooper’s writing, but once again she has sucked me into the Elizabethan era. She has such a skill that with minimal words she re-created the past complete with sights, sounds and smells. The people come to life, each one feels like a real person with their own habits and thoughts. The Tudor period is a favourite period of mine – and the setting in Richmond and Mortlake is familiar to me made it all feel like a comfy chair that I was settling into again – and I could have stayed a lot longer than 240 pages!

Lucy is an engaging character and I loved her devotion to the Queen and her mother. Her slow discovery of what lies beyond the normal world is intriguing and while I would have liked to know more of the magic and ghosts, there is definitely an element that can be explored in the future for Lucy. I would have liked to know more about Tomas as well!

Overall this was a great a read where the major disappointment was how quickly I sped through the pages.

Recommend for fans of Sophie McKenzie and Jennifer Donnelly. 8 out of 10

Throwback Thursday #40 - Side Jobs

2012-02-02T11:00:00.018Z

This is a great feature that Melissa at My World...in words and pictures has been doing for a while and I wanted to jump on board! There are plenty of books out there I desperately want...

But what about all those wonderful books that are ALREADY on my shelves?

Side Jobs (Dresden Files 12.5) - Jim Butcher

As Chicago's only professional wizard, Harry Dresden has had cases that have pitted him against insane necromancers, power-hungry faerie queens, enigmatic dark wizards, fallen angels—pretty much a "who's who" of hell and beyond—with the stakes in each case ranging from a lone human soul to the entire human race. But not every adventure Harry Dresden undertakes is an epic tale of life and death in a world on the edge of annihilation.

The Dresden files is my favourite long running series - and I still need to read this anthology of stories. The big question is really why I keep putting off reading my favourite authors for other books that I know I won't enjoy as much...does anyone know the answer? :)

Grave Witch Review

2012-02-01T11:00:00.017Z

Grave Witch (Alex Craft 1)

- Kalayna Price

Publisher: UK – Berkley

As a private investigator and consultant for the police, Alex Craft has seen a lot of dark magic. But even though she’s on good terms with Death himself—who happens to look fantastic in a pair of jeans—nothing has prepared her for her latest case. Alex is investigating a high profile murder when she’s attacked by the ‘shade’ she’s raising, which should be impossible. To top off her day, someone makes a serious attempt on her life, but Death saves her. Guess he likes having her around...
To solve this case Alex will have to team up with tough homicide detective Falin Andrews. Falin seems to be hiding something—though it’s certainly not his dislike of Alex—but Alex knows she needs his help to navigate the tangled webs of mortal and paranormal politics, and to track down a killer wielding a magic so malevolent, it may cost Alex her life...and her soul.

The first in a new Urban Fantasy series introduces Alex Craft, a Grave Witch who can’t help raising shades and seeing the decay of everything when she uses her grave sight. When someone starts killing women in a ritualistic fashion and torturing their shades, Alex is determined to stop the killer but first she has to contend with a hostile detective, not to mention Death himself...

Alex has all the qualities I love in my heroines – she is smart, determined, independent and feisty. She is also isolated. She has friends and housemates, but she doesn’t confide in them. When she is attacked, hunted or injured – they worry and want to help her, but most of the time she is too busy getting into her next scrap to talk to them at all and they never know what is truly happening with her. There are reasons for this and by the end, there is some hints that her self-imposed isolation could end. She does have some very strong men in her life – her father, detective Falin Andrews, and the mysterious Death – all of which I want to know more about and leave plenty of room for future revelations.

The story is fast paced and a great mix of magic, investigation, intuition and politics. There isn’t a much time to pause as the action starts almost straight away and rarely slows down. I loved the world that Kalayna has created with the fae and magic out and used in police procedures. The city itself is built in one of the hidden spaces that opened when fae came out to the human world and magic resurged. It makes it unique with the use of magic and politics hot topics still in the world. There is so much potential in this world and with Alex - I can’t wait to see what will happen next!

Recommended for fans of Chloe Neill and Patricia Briggs. 8 put of 10.

Mel's Random January

2012-01-31T11:00:00.105Z

Canadian Rockies

So a month into 2012 already! I have to admit January is usually a pretty busy time of year for me at work and this year hasn't been any exception. I've been running all other London presenting and now I would really like a break - how long is it until Easter? To be honest I would rather be somewhere else - like in the picture above, which I took a few years ago on holiday...*sigh*... And as I've been out and about a lot so haven't commented on as many other blogs as I would have liked. There's always next month though!

So how has this impacted the reading situation?

Books
Don't Call Me Ishmael - Michael Gerard Bauer
The Spellman's Strike Again - Lisa Lutz (2012 TBR Reading Pile Challenge)
The Last Dragonslayer - Jasper Fforde (2012 TBR Reading Pile Challenge & British Book Challenge)
Must Love Hellhounds - Charlaine Harris, et al (2012 TBR Reading Pile Challenge)
POD - Stephen Wallenfels
An Expert In Murder - Nicola Upson (2012 TBR Reading Pile Challenge & British Book Challenge)
The Eternal Enemy - Christopher Pike

E-Books
Silver Tongued Devil (Sabina Kane 4) - Jaye Wells
Under The Never Sky - Veronica Rossi
Darkest Powers Bonus Stories - Kelley Armstrong
Incarnate - Jodi Meadows
Horizon - Sophie Littlefield

Sarah's Reviews
A Little Magic - Valerie Gillen
Strange Angels: Jealousy - Lili St Crow

Audio Books
Eric - Terry Prachett

Author Posts
Author of Don't Call Me Ishmael, Michael Gerard Bauer stopped by for a post about school days

Regular Posts
Same Book/Different Cover looked Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison
In Books Confessions I discuss Book Obsession amongst readers...
In addition there were the usual wishlist posts, in my mailbox and Throwback Thursdays

So with all that in mind my reading challenges status looks like this:
British Books Challenge - 2 Read, 10 Books to go

2012 TBR Reading Pile Challenge - 4 Read, 26 Books to go

Highlight of the Month: No doubt the best book I read this month was Horizon by Sophie Littlefield

Honorable Mentions: POD, Under The Never Sky and The Last Dragonslayer. It's been a really good month for reading!

Early Review: Horizon

2012-01-30T11:00:00.010Z

Horizon (Aftertime 3)

- Sophie Littlefield

Publisher: Luna Books – released on 31^st January 2012

E-Arc courtesy of netgalley and Harlequin Books

Cass Dollar is a survivor. She's overcome the meltdown of civilization, humans turned mindless cannibals, and the many evils of man. But from beneath the devastated California landscape emerges a tendril of hope. A mysterious traveler arrives at New Eden with knowledge of a passageway North—a final escape from the increasingly cunning Beaters. Clutching this dream, Cass and many others decamp and follow him into the unknown.

Journeying down valleys and over barren hills, Cass remains torn between two men. One—her beloved Smoke—is not so innocent as he once was. The other keeps a primal hold on her that feels like Fate itself. And beneath it all, Cass must confront the worst of what's inside her—dark memories from when she was a Beater herself. But she, and all of the other survivors, will fight to the death for the promise of a new horizon...

Throughout all three books in the Aftertime series I’ve been on such an emotional rollercoaster as I’ve followed Cass’s journey to find her daughter, to find the man she loves and to find a home all whilst battling her addictions, the end of the world and of course the body-eaters or beaters. It’s been less than a year since the blue-leaf strain of keesev created the terrible virus that created the beaters and lead to the destruction of everything. In that time Cass has attempted to make various homes for her and her daughter – in the library, in the box and now on Eden, an island across the river safe from the beaters but something has always moved them on in past – will Eden be any different...?

While I like my heroines to be stubborn, tough and brave and while Cass is all these things and more, she is also vulnerable and weak in a way not many heroines in books are allowed to be. Even without the end of the world every day is a struggle for her and this makes Cass infinitely more human and I just wanted to give her a hug at times – although I don’t think she would accept it! Her relationship with the men in her live is the main focus of Cass’s emotional journey in this book – particularly her relationship with Smoke and Dors, the two men she has worked with since Aftertime began and even her relationship with her lost father comes under scrutiny. Cass has to make a decision about what she wants and even if she wants its for the right reasons – and I was never sure what she was going to do.

Despite all this emotional upheaval, there is plenty of tension and action when they confront the beaters. The evolution of the beaters and how they are learning is particularly intriguing and tense. There is a confrontation in a shopping centre which is a great tribute to one of the great zombie films, Dawn of the Dead – putting the zombie back in their natural habitat! The gun fights and attacks by the beaters are as nail-biting as before and while Aftertime and Rebirth focussed on humanity being as destructive as the beaters to their fellow man, it feels as if Horizon has some humans attempting to help others – although not always successfully and does leave you with a feeling of hope – even if there is still a long way to go!

This has been one of the most intense, emotional and exciting series I’ve ever read and I’ve been waiting impatiently for each book to come out. This is intelligent zombie fare with the most intense and fraught action scenes I’ve ever read. I really can’t recommend this enough! Brilliant. J

Recommended for fans of Mira Grant and Stacy Kane. 10 out of 10.

My Book Haul/In My Mailbox

2012-01-29T07:00:00.047Z

The Story Siren hosts a weekly meme where bloggers can share what goodies they've purchased/received this week. If you get a chance head over to The Story Siren and check out what everyone is up to! Only a couple of books this week - the last of post-Christmas spree finally arrived!

Saints Astray - Jacqueline Carey
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing

Fellow orphans, amateur vigilantes, and members of the Santitos, Loup Garron--the fugitive daughter of a genetically engineered "wolf man"--and Pilar Ecchevarria grew up in the military zone of Outpost 12, formerly known as Santa Olivia. But now they're free, and they want to help the rest of the Santitos escape. During a series of escapades, they discover that Miguel, Loup's former sparring partner and reprobate surrogate brother, has escaped from Outpost 12 and is testifying on behalf of its forgotten citizens-at least until he disappears from protective custody. Honor drives Loup to rescue Miguel, even though entering the U.S could mean losing her liberty.

I love Jacqueline Carey's writing and this sequel to her YA book Santa Olivia is one I've wanted for ages!

Being Of The Field - Traci Harding
Publisher: HarperCollins

At the university on Maladaan, Taren has studied everything from genetics and cell communication to Quantum Physics, Astrophysics and ESP. She believes there is an ocean of microscopic vibrations connecting everything in the universe to every other universe -- an inter-dimensional field theory. Unbeknownst to Taren, her research and hidden psychic talents are the reason she is called on by the prestigious AMIE space project to investigate an ocean planet and its strange light phenomena. However, there are conflicting agendas within the organisation and she is the only one who begins to suspect that foul play might be afoot...

Traci Harding is a much underrated Aussie writer and I'm looking forward to starting her latest trilogy!

If I Die - Rachel Vincent
Publisher: UK - MIRA Ink

The entire school's talking about the gorgeous new math teacher, Mr. Beck. Everyone except Kaylee Cavanaugh. After all, Kaylee's no ordinary high-school junior. She's a banshee—she screams when someone dies. But the next scream might be for Kaylee.
Yeah—it's a shock to her, too. So to distract herself, Kaylee's going to save every girl in school. Because that hot new teacher is really an incubus who feeds on the desire of unsuspecting students. The only girls immune to his lure are Kaylee and Sabine, her boyfriend's needy ex-girlfriend. Now the unlikely allies have to get rid of Mr. Beck…before he discovers they aren't quite human, either.

I've been buying all the books in the Soul Screamers series but I've yet to start reading them. This is the latest release in the UK and I think I will have to make a start on this series in 2012!

This Is Not Forgiveness - Celia Rees

Publisher: UK - Bloomsbury

Everyone says that Caro is bad ...but Jamie can't help himself. He thinks of her night and day and can't believe that she wants to be his girlfriend. Gorgeous, impulsive and unconventional, she is totally different to all the other girls he knows. His sister, Martha, hates her. Jamie doesn't know why, but there's no way he's going to take any notice of her warnings to stay away from Caro. But as Jamie falls deeper and deeper under her spell, he realises there is more to Caro - much more. There are the times when she disappears and doesn't get in touch, the small scars on her wrists, her talk about revolutions and taking action, not to mention the rumours he hears about the other men in her life. And then always in the background there is Rob, Jamie's older brother, back from Afghanistan and traumatised after having his leg smashed to bits there. Jamie wants to help him, but Rob seems to be living in a world of his own and is increasingly difficult to reach. With Caro, the summer should have been perfect ...but that isn't how things work out in real life, and Jamie is going to find out the hard way.

I won this from Kristy at The Overflowing Library as part of her British Books Challenge. It's not the usual type of book I would pick, which means it will be something different for me!

Tempest - Julie Cross
Publisher St Martins Griffin:

The year is 2009. Nineteen-year-old Jackson Meyer is a normal guy… he’s in college, has a girlfriend… and he can travel back through time. But it’s not like the movies – nothing changes in the present after his jumps, there’s no space-time continuum issues or broken flux capacitors – it’s just harmless fun.
That is… until the day strangers burst in on Jackson and his girlfriend, Holly, and during a struggle with Jackson, Holly is fatally shot. In his panic, Jackson jumps back two years to 2007, but this is not like his previous time jumps. Now he’s stuck in 2007 and can’t get back to the future. Desperate to somehow return to 2009 to save Holly but unable to return to his rightful year, Jackson settles into 2007 and learns what he can about his abilities. But it’s not long before the people who shot Holly in 2009 come looking for Jackson in the past, and these “Enemies of Time” will stop at nothing to recruit this powerful young time-traveler. Recruit… or kill him. Piecing together the clues about his father, the Enemies of Time, and himself, Jackson must decide how far he’s willing to go to save Holly… and possibly the entire world...

I won a copy of this from Sarah at A Dream of Books - after ending a load of giveaways as I was really curious about the story. I do love time travel stories!

What have you recieved this week? :)

On My Wishlist #72

2012-01-28T10:00:00.000Z

This is a meme from Book Chick City. There are so many books out there that I want to read that this is the only way I can keep track!

Fair Game (Alpha & Omega 3) - Patricia Briggs

Publisher: UK - Orbit (March 2012)

When the FBI request a pack consultant on a serial killer case they’re following in Boston, Anna and Charles are sent in. They quickly realise that not only the last two victims were werewolves – all of them were.

Someone is targeting their kind. And if Charles and Anna can’t get to the bottom of this mystery, they may be next . . .

I do enjoy the Mercy Thompson books and the Alpha and Omega series as well. Anna and Charles are a strong couple and I can't wait to see what they get up to next.

Raised By Wolves - Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Publisher: Egmont

Adopted by the Alpha of a werewolf pack after a rogue wolf brutally killed her parents right before her eyes, fifteen-year-old Bryn knows only pack life, and the rigid social hierarchy that controls it. That doesn't mean that she's averse to breaking a rule or two. But when her curiosity gets the better of her and she discovers Chase, a new teen locked in a cage in her guardian's basement, and witnesses him turn into a wolf before her eyes, the horrific memories of her parents' murders return. Bryn becomes obsessed with getting her questions answered, and Chase is the only one who can provide the information she needs. But in her drive to find the truth, will Bryn push too far beyond the constraints of the pack, forcing her to leave behind her friends, her family, and the identity that she's shaped?

After reading Every Other Day before Christmas and loving it (Review here), I want to read some of her other books - and this sounds like fun!

Tempting Danger (World of the Lupi 1) - Eileen Wilks

Publisher: Berkley

Lily Yu is a San Diego police detective investigating a series of grisly murders that appear to be the work of a werewolf. To hunt down the killer, she must infiltrate the clans. Only one man can help her--a were named Rule Turner, a prince of the lupi, whose charismatic presence disturbs Lily. Rule has his own reasons for helping the investigation--reasons he doesn't want to share with Lily. Logic and honor demand she keep her distance, but the attraction between them is immediate and devastating-and beyond human reason. Now, in a race to fend off evil, Lily finds herself in uncharted territory, tested as never before, and at her back a man who she's not sure she can trust...

I have to admit I don't like the cover of this book - but the description sounds interesting. I like investigations in the Urban Fantasy genre!

So what are you wishing for this week?

Early Review: Incarnate

2012-01-27T11:00:00.008Z

Incarnate

- Jodi Meadows

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books - Published on 31st January 2012

E-Arc courtesy of netgalley and Harper Collins

NEWSOUL
Ana is new. For thousands of years in Range, a million souls have been reincarnated over and over, keeping their memories and experiences from previous lifetimes. When Ana was born, another soul vanished, and no one knows why.

NOSOUL
Even Ana’s own mother thinks she’s a nosoul, an omen of worse things to come, and has kept her away from society. To escape her seclusion and learn whether she’ll be reincarnated, Ana travels to the city of Heart, but its citizens are suspicious and afraid of what her presence means. When dragons and sylph attack the city, is Ana to blame?

HEART
Sam believes Ana’s new soul is good and worthwhile. When he stands up for her, their relationship blooms. But can he love someone who may live only once, and will Ana’s enemies—human and creature alike—let them be together? Ana needs to uncover the mistake that gave her someone else’s life, but will her quest threaten the peace of Heart and destroy the promise of reincarnation for all?

What first drew me to this book was the absolutely beautiful cover – the colours, the butterfly over the face and the stark white background really makes this stand out among various dark covers and girls in red dresses. The story has a great hook as well – for thousands of years everyone has been re-incarnated when they die, living life after life, until one day a new soul is born for the first time. How would she fit in? What happened to the soul she ‘replaced’? This intriguing start seems set for a philosophical exploration of what it means to be human. However, most of the book is based on Ana falling for Sam and how they can breach the gap between them, which left me personally a little disappointed.

The world building is a little sketchy in places – reincarnation is explained along with how people are drawn into the same studies life after life. However, I was never sure if Heart was an advanced technology civilisation as seen by the SED (basically an i-Phone) and soul scanners – or more of a middle ages society with people keeping their own chickens and using horses. People also seemed remarkable unquestioning of the continual dragon attacks on the city. The family aspect was difficult to get my head around and I never really felt fully immersed in the world.

However, Ana was in a unique position and I liked her determination even if she seemed much too defensive at times. I wasn’t overly keen on her immediately falling for the first guy she meets, but Sam was a strong character, who genuinely seemed concerned about Ana and wanting to do right by her. His friend Stef made a strong impression as well. The writing was strong and I always wanted to know how the story would finish. There is a gem of a story here which is worth exploring – but the teen love didn’t convince me and I never really felt the stakes were that high. However, I have some hopes that the next books in the series will focus more on question of dragons and souls and less on romance.

Recommended for fans of Leigh Fallon and L.A. Weatherly. 6 out of 10

Throwback Thursday #39 - Voice of Dragons

2012-01-26T11:00:00.017Z

This is a great feature that Melissa at My World...in words and pictures has been doing for a while and I wanted to jump on board! There are plenty of books out there I desperately want...

But what about all those wonderful books that are ALREADY on my shelves?

Voice of Dragons - Carrie Vaughn

On one side of the border lies the modern world: the internet, homecoming dances, cell phones. On the other side dwell the ancient monsters who spark humanity's deepest fears: dragons.
Seventeen-year-old Kay Wyatt knows she's breaking the law by rock climbing near the border, but she'd rather have an adventure than follow the rules. When the dragon Artegal unexpectedly saves her life, the rules are abruptly shattered, and a secret friendship grows between them. But suspicion and terror are the legacy of human and dragon interactions, and the fragile truce that has maintained peace between the species is unraveling. As tensions mount and battles begin, Kay and Artegal are caught in the middle. Can their friendship change the course of a war?

Carrie Vaughn's Kitty series is a must buy for me so when she released a YA with Dragons in it, I knew I had to have a copy. Good news is that I do. Bad news is that I haven't read it yet. I have just reminded myself that I have it though so will try to give it a whirl in the next few weeks!

Has anyone out there read this book?

The Eternal Enemy Review

2012-01-25T11:00:00.010Z

The Eternal Enemy

- Christopher Pike

Publisher: UK – Hodder

Rela has just bought herself a new VCR. She sets the machine to tape a movie, but instead she gets the news--tomorrow's news. Soon Rela is regularly recording next week's news, even what is to happen in the far future. It's fun at first, until she sees herself on the news, and learns that there is no future for her...

I remember reading this as a teen and enjoying it immensely. However, the first thing that struck upon picking this up again is how dated the premise is now. In the current age of downloads, streaming and digital recording, the idea of using a video player is very old fashioned. So the idea of recording tomorrows news by mistake is slightly bizarre to me now! However, once you get past that idea (and shudder at the idea of anyone finding Mel Gibson fancy-able any more!), there is an interesting idea. What if you knew tomorrow news – and could make money from it and perhaps save lives...? And what if my changng the furture, means there is no future for you any more...?

The set up of the story takes a while and I have to confess I don’t understand what Rela sees in her love interest, Chris. The characterisation is a little shallow but as the whole book is less than 200 pages, there is no extraneous detail. However, the initial idea is so intriguing – and just when you think it reaches a climax, there is a twist out of left-field which puts all slow introduction into perspective.

Christopher Pike has a fascination with philosophy, what it means to be human and what is the meaning of life – all fascinating ideas that people struggle with for their whole lives and it is refreshing to see them introduced into a teen book. I think it was the early exposure to these ideas that lead to an early interest in physics and how the universe works. The last 60 pages are full of little ideas that stay with you long after the book is closed.

Recommended for fans of LJ Smith and Jeri Smith-Ready. 7 out of 10

Book Confession: Book Obsession?

2012-01-24T11:00:00.010Z

Over the last month or so I’ve had a few conversations with people that have got me thinking. In the pub over New Years someone mentioned a statistic that struck me.

10% of people are responsible for 85% of books purchased.

London Tube Commuters

Now, this was a slightly drunken discussion so I don’t know where he got these numbers, how accurate they are or how it was calculated, but my first thought was that it wasn’t right. There are loads of people who read – any commuter train or tube in London will have dozens of people reading either kindle or book in order to pass the time to work. I would have thought it would be higher than 10%. But since then, I’ve noticed it’s always the same people I see reading – the girl who sits across from me who is making her way through The Game of Thrones series and the suit guy who always has the latest booker prize shortlisted book. Is it really only a small number people of responsible for most book purchases?

I know some people who only read magazines and papers and would never pick up a book. Other people don’t even print if they can help it. And then there’s me: I have a huge number of books in my small flat. And I buy most of them – a few are giveaway wins and one or two swaps, but most of them I purchase with my own money. I even feel like I’m in withdrawal if I got a whole week without visiting a bookshop or surfing Amazon. I easily fit into the 10%. So much so that one person upon hearing how many books I owned that I haven’t read (about 350 at last count but probably more in reality!), asked if I would ever read them all. I have enough books to continue reading at my current rate for the next three years or so before I run out. I would assume that most book bloggers would also fall into this category, from definition.

So is it an obsession? Are those of us in that 10% addicted to buying books? It may not be as bad as drugs or alcohol but a lot of our time is spent thinking about next fix and money disappears into the hands of publishing houses and booksellers.

What are your thoughts? Do a small number of people contribute to the majority of sales? Can we ever read all those books? I know I want to read all mine eventually!

An Expert In Murder Review

2012-01-23T11:00:00.015Z

An Expert In Murder

- Nicola Upson

Kindle Book

It is March 1934, and Josephine is travelling from Scotland to London for the final week of her celebrated play Richard of Bordeaux - but joy turns to horror when her arrival coincides with murder. Detective Inspector Archie Penrose is convinced that the killing is connected to the play. Richard of Bordeaux has been the surprise hit of the season, with pacifist themes which strike a chord in a world still haunted by war, but now it seems that Josephine could become the victim of her own success, as her reputation - and even her life - are put at risk. As his investigations lead him from the romance of the West End to the stark reality of the trenches, he and Josephine must confront their own ghosts in a search for someone who will stop at nothing to right the wrongs of a past generation.

Set in London’s theatre-land in the late 1930s, An Expert In Murder is a throwback to the old fashioned murder mysteries where motive and alibi are more important than physical evidence. The period feels authentic with men and women ‘stepping out’ together and plays are popular form of entertainment for the masses. The spectre of the future hardships doesn’t appear here despite the late 30s era, but it feels as everyone is still haunted by the shadow of The Great War – whether they were fighting or not on the front. Indeed the fear and actions of the past loom large over every character in this novel – especially when they contemplate their futures.

The murder mystery itself is intriguing, and plunges headlong into the social and economic ideals of the theatre where everyone has their own secrets and desires. The writing feels traditional and adds to the atmosphere. However, I never really felt connected to any of the characters. The heroine, Josephine Tey, based on a popular but mysterious real-life writer and playwright, always feels aloof and impersonal. She never really seemed to express emotion and as such I always felt like I was following a friendly and polite stranger. Other characters experienced similar issues, although Archie Penrose, the detective was more involving –especially his feelings for Josephine which are not discussed, but shine through in his actions.

There are a number of red herrings scattered about, especially in the early half of the book which add depth and intrigue but many of these are dropped without resolution. While this adds to the mystery in the beginning but does leave you feeling a little bereft by the end – which does show how strong small glimpses of secondary characters can be! Overall, this was fun, traditional murder mystery in a forgotten era and made a pleasant change in my reading matter for a few days.

Recommended for fans of Agatha Christie and Carola Dunn. 7 out of 10

Winners!

2012-01-22T21:00:00.000Z

I've been a bit lapse at annoucing winners of verious giveaway over the last few weeks - although I have contacted the winners and sorted out their prizes! So bring us up todate, recent winners have been -

Mel's Favourite Books of 2011

I have two winners for this:

Anne Jude from My Book Addiction who choose Touch of Frost by Jennifer Estep

and

Sarah from Whispering Words who choose A Touch of Power by Maria V Synder

Don't Call Me Ishmael Giveaway

Winner of a copy of Don't Call Me Ishlmael was Paul Whitney.

Dreaming of Books Giveaway

Winner of a book of her choice is Hilda from Catchthelune and she choose This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen

Congratulations everyone! Sorry to those who didn't win this time, but I'm sure I won't go too long before another giveaway!

My Book Haul/In My Mailbox

2012-01-22T07:00:00.064Z

The Story Siren hosts a weekly meme where bloggers can share what goodies they've purchased/received this week. If you get a chance head over to The Story Siren and check out what everyone is up to!
I wasn't sure I would have anything to share this week but then Friday a couple of giveaway wins turned up and the some more of my internet purchases post-Christmas and post-buying banned turned up!

Bitter Night - Diana Pharaoh Francis
Crimson Wind - Diana Pharaoh Francis
Shadow City - Diana Pharaoh Francis
Publisher: Pocket Books

Once, Max dreamed of a career, a home, a loving family. Now all she wants is freedom...and revenge. A witch named Giselle transformed Max into a warrior with extraordinary strength, speed, and endurance. Bound by spellcraft, Max has no choice but to fight as Giselle's personal magic weapon -- a Shadowblade -- and she's lethally good at it. But her skills are about to be put to the test as they never have before....

The ancient Guardians of the earth are preparing to unleash widespread destruction on the mortal world, and they want the witches to help them. If the witches refuse, their covens will be destroyed, including Horngate, the place Max has grudgingly come to think of as home.
Max thinks she can find a way to help Horngate stand against the Guardians, but doing so will mean forging dangerous alliances -- including one with a rival witch's Shadowblade, who is as drawn to Max as she is to him -- and standing with the witch she despises. Max will have to choose between the old life she still dreams of and the warrior she has become, and take her place on the side of right -- if she survives long enough to figure out which side that is..

I was so excited to win all three books in the Horngate Witches series from The Quillery! I've had this series on my wishlist for ages and to win all three books is so great - very excited about these books!

Blood Drunk - Angela Lovell

With summer waning quickly before the start of his senior year, a family emergency forces Blue Knightly to leave his small Midwest town and travel to New York City to locate his rebellious sister. From the morgue to Central Park to the underbelly of New York, he quickly discovers the big city is the least of his concerns as he reluctantly takes sides within a warring faction of vampires to unravel the mystery of his sister’s disappearance. In their underground world of abandoned subway tunnels, Blue finds himself falling for a femme fatale vampire whose vibe is seldom clear. Not knowing who to trust, Blue finds himself battling not only the undead, but his own heart, as the family crisis escalates and every decision could be his last.

This was a win from Melissa at Book and Things - and looks intriguing. Most of the Urban
Fantasy I've read with male leads have been fantastic so looking forward to this!

Shadow Heir - Richelle Mead
Publisher: UK - Bantam

Shaman-for-hire Eugenie Markham strives to keep the mortal realm safe from trespassing entities. But as the Thorn Land's prophecy-haunted queen, there's no refuge for her and her soon-to-be-born-children when a mysterious blight begins to devastate the Otherworld...
The spell-driven source of the blight isn't the only challenge to Eugenie's instincts. Fairy king Dorian is sacrificing everything to help, but Eugenie can't trust the synergy drawing them back together. The uneasy truce between her and her shape shifter ex-lover Kiyo is endangered by secrets he can't--or won't--reveal. And as a formidable force rises to also threaten the human world, Eugenie must use her own cursed fate as a weapon--and risk the ultimate sacrifice...

The final Eugenie book - as far as I know! It seems like the year for endings for Richelle Mead books which is sad but I'm looking forward to seeing what she does next now both Eugenie and Georgina series are over...

Kiss of Frost - Jennifer Estep

Publisher: Kensington

I’m Gwen Frost, a second-year warrior-in-training at Mythos Academy, and I have no idea how I’m going to survive the rest of the semester. One day, I’m getting schooled in swordplay by the guy who broke my heart—the drop-dead gorgeous Logan who slays me every time. Then, an invisible archer in the Library of Antiquities decides to use me for target practice. And now, I find out that someone at the academy is really a Reaper bad guy who wants me dead. I’m afraid if I don’t learn how to live by the sword—with Logan’s help—I just might die by the sword...

I've been waiting for this for so long... I loved Touch of Frost!

What have you picked up this week? :)

On My Wishlist #71

2012-01-21T07:00:00.052Z

This is a meme from Book Chick City. There are so many books out there that I want to read that this is the only way I can keep track! This week I'm wishing for some exclusive online content...or at least what's available on Amazon UK's kindle page!

Easy Pickings - CE Murphy & Faither Hunter

Two heroines. Two magics. One world.
There’s nowhere in America like the Big Easy. Just ask Jane Yellowrock, shapeshifting vampire killer, whose hunting grounds run the length and breadth of the Bayou.
Just ask Joanne Walker, whose shamanic magic has drawn her to the heart of American Weird.
But it’s not Joanne’s world, and it isn’t Jane’s either. In a New Orleans where Katrina never hit and supposedly-dead vampires stalk the streets, Jane and Jo have to find and defeat the magic that brought them there–or they just might find themselves…

Two heroines from two different series meet up? It's like an UF fan dream! And even better it's official - by their offical authors!

Silent Blade - Ilona Andrews

On Meli Galdes’ home planet, the struggle for power is a bloody, full-contact sport—in business and on the battlefield. For years her lethal skills have been a valuable asset in advancing her family’s interests. She’s more than earned her right to retire, but her kinsmen have one last favor to ask.

Kill the man who ruined her life.

Celino Carvanna’s razor-sharp business acumen—and skills with a blade—won him the freedom to do as he pleases. There’s only one thing he can’t seem to control—his reaction to the mysterious woman who tantalizes his senses. Her eyes alone set his blood simmering, stirring ridiculous adolescent fantasies about breasts and honey. With a few words she dissects his soul. Who is she? And how does she slide so easily under his well-guarded skin? It’s almost too easy to draw Celino within the kill zone. Meli plans to revel in him. Drink him in. Wring every drop of pleasure out of every moment.

And when she’s sure he belongs to her, she will finally repay a decade’s worth of pain—in a single, brutal dose of reality

I love Ilona Andrews writing and think I will add this to the many books on my kindle soon - even if it Science-Fiction.

Hidden - Kelley Armstrong

Hiking through the snow, holiday baking and playing board games by the fire – what’s not to love about an old-fashioned family Christmas?
Werewolves Elena Michaels and Clayton Danvers want to give their four-year-old twins, Kate and Logan, something their parents never had: a nice, normal holiday. No Pack responsibilities, no homicidal half-demons or power-hungry sorcerers to deal with – just the four of them, alone, at a chalet outside Ontario’s Algonquin Park. Then a strange werewolf shows up at their door…while the town is buzzing about a young man, back from college, found half-eaten in the woods. And there’s the missing little girl …
With all the signs pointing to a rogue mutt with a taste for human flesh, Elena and Clay have no choice but to investigate. But are they the hunters – or the hunted?

With the Otherworld series coming to an end, I want to savour every short and novella length story in that world!

What are you wishing for this week?

POD Review

2012-01-20T11:00:00.000Z

POD

- Stephen Wallenfels

Publisher: UK - Templar

POD's - strange alien spheres hover menacingly in the sky, zapping anyone who ventures outside.
Josh is 15 and stuck in his house with his OCD dad. They're running out of food... Megs is 12, alone and trapped in a multi-storey carpark. The hotel next door is under the control of dangerous security staff, but Megs has something they want, and they'll do anything to get it...
When the aliens invade, the real enemy becomes humanity itself. What would you do to survive?

What happens to the ordinary people when the aliens appear in the skies in huge spaceships that look like Pearls of Death (or PODs)? This book answers some of those questions by focussing on the ordinary people during an alien invasion. Anyone outside when the PODs first appear are instantly ‘disappeared’, leaving humans to huddle indoors while the PODs hover above.

The story is told is told from two points of view; Josh, the teenaged boy trapped in his house with his father and dog, rapidly running out of supplies and Megs, an eleven year old sleeping in her mum’s car in a hotel’s multi-story car park. Megs may be young but she is resourceful, figuring out how to survive and avoid the men with the knife who are holed up in the hotel. She has a lot of humanity in her and I was really invested in her survival – worrying more about her human enemies than the alien ones. Josh’s story was less eventful and a little sad as he and his Dad argue over rationing, and if surviving was worth it. Meg’s story was fast paced and tense, while Josh’s was more thoughtful and introspective which balanced each other out. Overall though, I wanted to spend more time with Megs as I felt more drawn to her – she wanted to survive while Josh seemed ready to give up more than once.

The story is exciting and well written – I was so invested in the story I even started mentally cataloguing the food in my kitchen and figuring out what containers I could fill with water. I have to confess to purchasing more tinned food than usual this week – just in case. J

The alien PODs remain just that – alien, with no revelation as to their motive or plan. While the aliens are the catalyst for the events, PODs is really more of a study of the best and worst of humanity. Is surviving at any cost worth it? A great adventure story that I was sorry to see end.

Recommended for fans of Charlie Higson and Michael Grant. 9 out of 10

Throwback Thursday #38 - The Hunger Games

2012-01-19T11:00:00.013Z

This is a great feature that Melissa at My World...in words and pictures has been doing for a while and I wanted to jump on board! There are plenty of books out there I desperately want...

But what about all those wonderful books that are ALREADY on my shelves?

The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins

Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen regards it as a death sentence when she is forced to represent her district in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV. But Katniss has been close to death before - and survival, for her, is second nature.

I know, I know! I must the only person in the world not to have read this series. Even with one of my friends continually nagging to read it, it's not made it's way to the top of my TBR pile yet. I'm hoping with the film coming out this year, it will give me the push to read it soon.

Has anyone else out there not read The Hunger Games yet either? Or am I alone? :)

Audiobook: Eric Review

2012-01-18T11:00:00.002Z

Eric (Discworld 9)

Written by Terry Pratchett

Read by Tony Robinson

An inept demonologist wants three wishes granted--to be immortal, to rule the world, and to have a beautiful woman fall in love with him. But instead of a demon, he calls up Rincewind, the most incompetent wizard in the universe. Because Eric gives him no other choice, Rincewind tries to grant him his wishes...

Eric is quite a short book for Terry Pratchett and this works well in audio form as there is less to cut for the abridgement. And this means that there are no strange plot jumps or unusual occurrences when listening. Tony Robinson is brilliant once again as the narrator and voices each character separately. He makes each character unique and recognisable which adds a lot of humour through his inflections to an already amusing story. This is one of the funniest Discworld stories partly because it follows a fairly standard plot device– be careful what you wish for. But this is a Terry Pratchett book so the story is a clever rift on many expectations...from what the most beautiful woman in the world truly looks like and what would people do if they ever met the ruler of the world. And I won’t mention what it truly means to live forever...

Rincewind is possibly one of the bravest cowards you will ever meet – able to run away from pretty much anything and think on his feet, while the title character, Eric is a little annoying at first, he soon settles down. This story takes Rincewind and Eric across the Discworld, back in time and eventually to Hell, following in the footsteps of someone named Faust... While Terry Pratchett does add plenty of humour there is a biting satire to the story as well as we get treated to some great insights into a variety of subject from war to religion to office politics. I can’t say too much without spoiling a great experience but whether you listen to the book or read it, this is fun read.

I have to confess that I’ve never read any of the Rincewind books in the Discworld series – but I have listened to them all on audiobook. This is one of my favourites as Eric is an amusing and entertaining story with some fantastic images and a great twist on a familiar premise.

Recommended for fans of Douglas Adams and Jasper Fforde. 8.5 out of 10

Guest Review: Strange Angels - Jealousy

2012-01-17T11:00:00.024Z

Today I have Sarah dropping by to review one of her favourite series...

Jealousy (Strange Angels 3)
- Lili St Crow

Publisher: UK - Quercus Publishing

It’s a good thing Dru Anderson is fast. Because the sucker chasing her isn’t slowing down—and he won’t rest until he has tasted her blood and silenced her heart . . .
Dru’s best friend, Graves, and her strange and handsome savior, Christophe, are ready to help her take on the ultimate evil. But will their battle for Dru’s heart get in the way of her survival?

Oh I do love this YA series. It’s one of those where part of you wants to read every book back to back, because they’re just so damn readable; whilst the rest of you is all disciplined and makes you wait between books, because you just don’t want the series to end. For those of you who haven’t read my previous Strange Angels reviews they star Dru Anderson, who may be an about-to-bloom svetocha (an uber-vampire-butt-kicker), but who is also very much a teenage girl.

That’s what I love about these books, they’re just so damn real. Yes, I know, the book concerns vamps and weres, but St.Crow triumphs in making the story one we can all relate to. Dru may be very well-trained in hand to hand combat, aided by her rapidly evolving powers, but fights still involve sweat and tears and bruises and blood. She still gets hurt (and actually feels it), still gets ridiculously riled, and still quite often questions what the hell she is actually doing. And when the dust has settled, and the adrenaline goes, boy does she crash and burn!

Jealousy is the third installment in this series, and now we’ve reached the stage of a very interesting love triangle. Who would you chose? The loup-garou boy her own age, who may be known as ‘goth boy’, but who is the only person since her parents died to ever make her feel safe? Or the much older, gorgeous, slightly bad-boy djamphir who is passionately devoted to her, and especially her safety? St.Crow doesn’t make the choice easy!

Jealousy is a pacey read, even when politics are thrown into the mix, and the fight scenes are almost visceral in their descriptions. The fact that the story features mainly teenagers is never played down, and I dare you not to spot your teenage self in it! Ok, so it’s not going to win a Booker Prize, but that doesn’t stop it being my favourite YA series out there, 8.5 out of 10.

Must Love Hellhounds Review

2012-01-16T11:00:00.019Z

Must Love Hellhounds

- Charlaine Harris, Nalini Singh, Ilona Andrews & Meljean Brook

Publisher: Berkley

In these hound-eat-hound worlds, anything goes... and everything bites.
Follow paranormal bodyguards Clovache and Batanya into Lucifer's realm, where they encounter his fearsome four-legged pets, in Charlaine Harris's The Britlingens Go to Hell. Seek out a traitor in the midst of a guild of non- lethal vampire trackers, one that intends to eradicate the entire species of bloodsuckers, in Nalini Singh's Angels' Judgment. Find out why the giant three-headed dog that guards the gates of Hades has left the underworld for the real world-and whose scent he's following-in Ilona Andrews's Magic Mourns. Embark on a perilous search for the kidnapped niece of a powerful vampire alongside her blind- and damn sexy-companion and a hellhound in Meljean Brook's Blind Spot.

Four novellas from four Urban Fantasy stalwarts each one featuring a hellhound of some description. I’ve read books by Charlaine Harris and Ilona Andrews previously but Nalini Singh and Meljean Brook were new authors to me – even if I have full books by both of them somewhere in my TBR pile...

The Britlingens Go to Hell by Charlaine Harris is a fun romp through a couple of dimesions parallel to Sookie Stackhouse. The Britlingens in question – Clovache and Batanya are fierce, determined warriors with snark and I really enjoyed this tale – more so than recent Sookie Stackhouse books! 8 out of 10

Angel’s Judgement by Nalini Singh follows two Guild Hunters as they look for a traitor in their midsts. This is a sexy short tale in which Sara Haziz takes centre stage. Having no read any books in this world before, there was a lot to get used and at first the relationships between Angels, Archangels, Vampires and the Guild was a little overwhelming and distracted me from the story. However, I soon settled in and enjoyed the ride. I’m happy I have Angel’s Blood to read at some point as I would like to get to know this world better. 7 out of 10

Magic Mourns by Ilona Andrews bypasses Kate Daniels in favour of her best friend, Andrea and an adventure with the were-hyena, Raphael. I love this world were magic and tech battle each other and anything man made slowly falls apart. Andrea has always been a favourite of mine with her preference for guns over swords and troubled past. While it kills me that I have to wait another year for the next Kate book, I’m more than happy with a Andrea based story – Gunmetal Magic this summer! 9 out of 10

Blind Spot by Meljean Brooks is an interesting story – a cute romance and an adorable hellhound makes for a fun read. I enjoyed the handicap that Blake has being blind and the determination of Maggie to prove herself. 7 out of 10

Overall, this was a high quality anthology with each story hitting highs and all worth reading. Recommended for fans of Ilona Andrews, Charlaine Harris, Meljean Brook and Nalini Singh. 8 out of 10

My Book Haul/In My Mailbox

2012-01-15T07:00:00.024Z

Raven Cursed (Jane Yellowrock 4)- Faith Hunter

Publisher: Roc Fantasy

The vampires of Asheville, North Carolina, want to establish their own clan, but since they owe loyalty to the Master Vampire of New Orleans they must work out the terms with him. To come up with an equitable solution, he sends an envoy with the best bodyguard blood money can buy: Jane Yellowrock. But when a group of local campers are attacked by something fanged, Jane goes from escort to investigator. Unless she wants to face a very angry mast vampire, she will have to work overtime to find the killer. It's a good thing she's worth every penny.

Jane Yellowrock is a great hunter - and I adore Beast! I feel bad that I haven't read Mercy Blade, the third book in the series yet, but now I can read books three and four without the wait!

Sins of the Demon (Kara Gillian 4) - Diane Rowland

Publisher: Daw

The homicide beat in Louisiana isn't just terrifying, it's demonic. Detective Kara Gilligan of the supernatural task force has the ability to summon demons to her aid, but she herself is pledged to serve a demonic lord. And now, people who've hurt Kara in the past are dropping dead for no apparent reason. To clear her name and save both the demon and human worlds, she's in a race against the clock and in a battle for her life that just may take her to hell and back.

Kara is another heroine I love - and I do enjoy the mix of detective work and demon summoning in this series. Definitely a must-buy series for me!

The Shadow Reader - Sandy Williams

Publisher: Ace Fantasy

Some humans can see the fae. McKenzie Lewis can track them, reading the shadows they leave behind. But some shadows lead to danger. Others lead to lies.A Houston college student trying to finish her degree, McKenzie has been working for the fae king for years, tracking vicious rebels who would claim the Realm. Her job isn’t her only secret. For just as long, she’s been in love with Kyol, the king’s sword-master—and relationships between humans and fae are forbidden. But any hope for a normal life is shattered when she’s captured by Aren, the fierce and uncompromising rebel leader. He teaches her the forbidden fae language and tells her dark truths about the Court, all to persuade her to turn against the king. Time is running out, and as the fight starts to claim human lives, McKenzie has no choice but to decide once and for all whom to trust and where she ultimately stands in the face of a cataclysmic civil war.

This looks like a fun new UF read for me! Plus I love the colours on the cover. :)

Switched - Amanda Hocking

Publisher: Tor

When Wendy Everly was six-years-old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to kill her. It isn't until eleven years later that Wendy finds out her mother might've been telling the truth. With the help of Finn Holmes, Wendy finds herself in a world she never knew existed - and it's one she's not sure if she wants to be a part of.

I never read any Amanda Hocking when she was the independent author star, but I spotted this paperback in Asda as part of their 2 for £7 and rather liked the sound of it. I have to admit the cover did attract me at first - it is rather striking!

Before I Go To Sleep - S.J. Watson

Publisher: Black Swan

Memories define us. So what if you lost yours every time you went to sleep? Your name, your identity, your past, even the people you love - all forgotten overnight. And the one person you trust may only be telling you half the story.
Welcome to Christine's life

This was the other book I picked up in Asda as it sounds intriguing and memory related stories seem very popular at the moment!

Working Stiff - Rachel Caine

Publisher: UK - A&B

Bryn Davis knows working at Fairview Mortuary isn't the most glamorous career choice, but at least it offers stable employment--until she discovers her bosses using a drug that resurrects the clientele as part of an extortion racket. Now, Bryn faces being terminated--literally, and with extreme prejudice. With the help of corporate double-agent Patrick McCallister, Bryn has a chance to take down the bigger problem--pharmaceutical company Pharmadene, which treats death as the ultimate corporate loyalty program. She'd better do it fast, before she becomes a zombie slave--a real working stiff. She'd be better off dead...

I picked this up dead cheap at The Works as it looks like an interesting take on the zombie story.

Wedding Fever - Kim Gruenenfelder

Publisher: Harper

After listening to her closest friends' latest travails in love, parenting, and careers, superstitious bride-to-be Nicole believes she has the perfect recipe for everyone's happiness. So she sets to work in arranging a bridal shower "cake pull" in which each ribboned silver charm planted in her cake will bring its recipient the magical assistance she needs to change her destiny.Melissa, still ringless after dating the same man for six years, deserves the engagement ring charm. The red hot chili pepper would be perfect for Seema, who is in love with her best male friend Scott, but can't seem to make their relationship more than platonic. And recently laid off journalist Nic wants the shovel, which symbolizes hard work, to help her get her career back on track. Nic does everything she can to control who gets which silver keepsake - as well as the future it represents.But when the charmed cake is mysteriously shifted from the place settings Nic arranged around it, no one gets the charm she chose for them. And when the other party guests' fortunes begin coming true, Mel, Seema, and Nic can't help but wonder... Is the cake trying to tell them something?

I have to confess I actually bought this for a friend last year who was getting married, but I put it aside and just re-discovered it when I was cleaning up! It looks like a lot of fun and although I will still pass it onto the friend - I think I will read it first!

What have you picked up this week?

On My Wishlist #70

2012-01-14T07:30:00.036Z

This is a meme from Book Chick City. There are so many books out there that I want to read that this is the only way I can keep track! This week it's a selection of YA books that have popped up on my radar...

20 Years Later - E.J. Newman

Publisher: Dystopia Press

LONDON, 2012: It arrives and with that the world is changed into an unending graveyard littered with the bones, wreckage, and memories of a dead past, gone forever.LONDON, 2032: Twenty years later, out of the ashes, a new world begins to rise, a place ruled by both loyalty and fear, and where the quest to be the first to regain lost knowledge is an ongoing battle for power. A place where laws are made and enforced by roving gangs-the Bloomsbury Boys, the Gardners, the Red Lady's Gang-who rule the streets and will do anything to protect their own.THE FOUR: Zane, Titus, Erin, Eve. Living in this new world, they discover that they have abilities never before seen. And little do they know that as they search post-apocalyptic London for Titus' kidnapped sister that they'll uncover the secret of It, and bring about a reckoning with the forces that almost destroyed all of humanity.

A Dystopian book set in London? How can I resist? :-)

Tempest - Julie Cross

Publisher: St Martin's Griffin

The year is 2009. Nineteen-year-old Jackson Meyer is a normal guy… he’s in college, has a girlfriend… and he can travel back through time. But it’s not like the movies – nothing changes in the present after his jumps, there’s no space-time continuum issues or broken flux capacitors – it’s just harmless fun. That is… until the day strangers burst in on Jackson and his girlfriend, Holly, and during a struggle with Jackson, Holly is fatally shot. In his panic, Jackson jumps back two years to 2007, but this is not like his previous time jumps. Now he’s stuck in 2007 and can’t get back to the future. Desperate to somehow return to 2009 to save Holly but unable to return to his rightful year, Jackson settles into 2007 and learns what he can about his abilities. But it’s not long before the people who shot Holly in 2009 come looking for Jackson in the past, and these “Enemies of Time” will stop at nothing to recruit this powerful young time-traveler. Recruit… or kill him. Piecing together the clues about his father, the Enemies of Time, and himself, Jackson must decide how far he’s willing to go to save Holly… and possibly the entire world.

Time Travel and some good early reviews mean this is one book I really want to get my hands on!

The Future of Us - Jay Asher & Carolyn Mackler

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Childrens Books

It's 1996 and less than half of all American high school students have ever used the Internet. Facebook will not be invented for several more years. Emma just got a computer and an America Online CD-ROM with 100 free hours. When she and her best friend Josh log on to AOL they discover themselves on Facebook... fifteen years in the future. Everybody wonders what life has in store for them.
Josh and Emma are about to find out.

I don't tend to read a lot of contemporary stories but this sounds like a lot of fun and super cute!

What are you wishing for this week? :)

Dreaming of Books Giveaway Hop

2012-01-13T01:00:00.014Z

The Dreaming of Books Giveaway Hop is hosted by I Am A Reader, Not A Writer & Reviews by Martha's Bookshelf - thank you both!

We all know January is one of the more depressing months of the year - the excitement of Christmas & the New Year has gone, those credit card bills from all the gift and sale shopping start arriving, the weather is rubbish and we all decide we need to be fitter, healthier and detoxed which means boring, tasteless food and exercise. I'm depressed just thinking about it! So in order to cheer myself - and someone else up, I thought I'd take part in the Dreaming of Books hop!

What can you win here at Mel's Random Reviews?

Prize: Book of your choice from The Book Despository (up to £10 or $10) as such this is open internationally!

Rules: (without which there will be chaos!)

- Fill in the form below

- That's it! No complicated extra entries, no bribes, no favourites :-)

- Closes at Midnight 18th January 2012

- If you win, you'll have 72 hours to reply my email, otherwise I'll pick another winner
- You don't have to be a follower, but I won't object if you are! :)

<<<GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED>>>

Good Luck - and don't forget to check out some of the other stops on the hop! :)

Throwback Thursday #37 - Waking The Witch

2012-01-12T11:00:00.017Z

This is a great feature that Melissa at My World...in words and pictures has been doing for a while and I wanted to jump on board! There are plenty of books out there I desperately want...

But what about all those wonderful books that are ALREADY on my shelves?

Waking The Witch - Kelley Armstrong

Meet SAVANNAH. She's strong, smart, sexy...and supernatural. In book 11 of the Women of the Otherworld series, Kelley Armstrong tells the story of Savannah - a young witch with a dark heritage. As the orphaned daughter of a black witch mother and sorcerer father, she has powers far beyond a normal witch, and a dangerous addiction to trouble...Will she be able to resist the darker side of her powers, and more to the point, is she right to deny that side of herself?

I adore the Otherworld series so much, but I've had this the 11th book on my shelf for so long - not because I don't want to read it but I know the series is coming to an end. Knowing the series ends with book 13, I want to hold onto the new adventures for as long as possible. This was the series that introduced me to Urban Fantasy and I will miss Savannah, Paige, Elena, Hope and the others! Is that too weird?

The Last Dragonslayer Review

2012-01-11T11:00:00.009Z

The Last Dragonslayer

- Jasper FForde

Publisher: UK – Hodder

In the good old days, magic was powerful, unregulated by government, and even the largest spell could be woven without filling in the magic release form B1-7g. But somewhere, somehow, the magic started draining away. Jennifer Strange runs Kazam!, an employment agency for state-registered magicians, soothsayers and sorceresses. But work is drying up. Drain cleaner is cheaper and quicker than a spell. Why trust a cold and drafty magic carpet when jetliners offer a comfy seat and an in-flight movie? And now potions are eligible for VAT... But then the visions start. The Last Dragon is going to be killed by a Dragonslayer at 12.00 on Sunday. The death will unleash untold devastation on the UnUnited Kingdom, setting principality against dukedom and property developer against homesteader. And all the signs are pointing to Jennifer Strange, and saying"Big Magic is coming!"

I love Jasper Fforde books! He has created a perfectly unique world where magic still exists, even if it is declining and is more suited to rewiring your house rather than answering your deepest desires. The unUnited Kingdoms are familiar but slightly skewed version of the real world UK, split into various kingdoms each ruled by a king or Duke, with currency counted in moolah, and foundlings are indentured servants until the age of 18. Jennifer Strange still has two years to serve at Kazam Towers, a home for magicians whether still working or retired, when a strong prophecy telling of the death of the final dragon sets in motion a series of events which could change everything.

I’ve read all Jasper Fforde’s adult books save one which is still sitting on my TBR pile and this, his first YA novel has all the hallmarks of his previous books. There are some fantastically inventive ideas, some brilliant names – Tiger Prawns! – and a more linear story than his adult stories. Jennifer is a straight talking, full of common sense girl who is brave and intelligent. She is determined and stubborn – and I just love how she deals with the magicians, the king and the dragon that all have so much power than her but don’t necessarily want the right thing. I love the Quarkbeast – a fearsome looking creature who is completely loyal to Jennifer and eats metal. There is so much to enjoy!

The story is a little slow at the beginning as we are introduced to the world and the differences from our own, but the pace soon picks up and gallops to an exciting conclusion. There are a wide variety of characters – some good, some not, some merely eccentric but they expand the world and give Jennifer an assortment of people to conflict with. Magic, sponsorship endorsements, dragons and ancient wizard pacts all mix together to make a very tasty read.

If you want an entertaining and slight bizarre story filled as much innovation as twelve other books, then pick up this book. If you want a fun, exciting read, pick up this book. Hell, if you just want a great book to read, pick up this book!

Recommended for fans of Tom Holt and Douglas Adams. 9 out of 10.

Guest Review: A Little Magic

2012-01-10T11:00:00.033Z

I'm afraid I have so many books waiting to be read on my shelves at the moment that I can't possibly read them all, so I don't accept many review copies. But I had the idea that my regular guest reviewer, Sarah who has a much smaller TBR pile than myself, might like to try some of the books I get offered. So I sent her a selection of requests and this was one she picked to read!

A Little Magic

- Valerie Gillen

When the grandmother she never met is stricken by a mysterious coma, Siobhan Kelly finds herself uprooted from her familiar California life and Irish step dancing classes, and dealing with Spring in Vermont, where the roads are muddy, it’s as likely to snow as it is to rain, and the kids there think that since she’s from Encino, she must be a “valley girl” (fer shurr). Out of sheer loneliness, she falls in with a small group of friends including shy hottie David, his academically advanced little sister Fiona, and their cousin Alicia, who claims to be a witch. It doesn’t take Fiona’s telling her that Alicia’s dark magic landed another girl at school in a wheelchair, for Siobhan to know Alicia is not the kind of person she wants to hang around with.

As you can imagine, Mel gets a lot of book review requests and she has finally decided to farm some of them out to me (could this have anything to do with all the Baileys drinking she was planning to do over Christmas I wonder???! [No Comment - Mel]). I have just finished the first of these, the YA book A Little Magic, which stars a young, Irish-dancing proto-witch called Siobhan. Siobhan and her family are made to move from their home in California to Vermont, where the grandmother she has never met has slipped into a mysterious coma. Staying in the grandmother’s strange house, with an ever-blooming garden, kick-starts Siobhan’s growth from totally uninformed teen to powerful (but with still much to learn) young witch.

A Little Magic is a very sweet book, but it definitely puts the ‘Y’ into YA. I can imagine the 10-12 year old girls loving this, with its cute mix of talking cats, Irish-dancing, sparkly lights, family bonds and young love; but anyone who has read the more adult YA books will find it all a bit simplistic. Good and bad are easily enough spotted, moments of peril are only superficial, and everyone says exactly what they mean.

Definitely one for pre-teens looking to enjoy their first taste of the fantasy genre – 8/10 for them, 5/10 for us.

The Spellman's Strike Again Review

2012-01-09T09:00:00.013Z

The Spellman’s Strike Again (Spellman Files 4)

- Lisa Lutz

Publisher: UK – Pocket Books

At the ripe old age of thirty-two, former wild child Isabel "Izzy" Spellman has finally agreed to take over the family business. And the transition won't be a smooth one. First among her priorities as head of Spellman Investigations is to dig up some dirt on the competition, slippery ex-cop Rick Harkey--a task she may enjoy a little too much. Next, faced with a baffling missing-persons case at the home of an aging millionaire, Izzy hires an actor friend, Len, to infiltrate the mansion as an undercover butler--a role he may enjoy a little much. Meanwhile, Izzy is being blackmailed by her mother (photographic evidence of Prom Night 1994) to commit to regular blind dates with promising professionals--an arrangement that doesn't thrill Connor, an Irish bartender on the brink of becoming Ex-boyfriend #12.

This is one book I’ve left on my TBR pile for too long! The Spellman’s are curious, more curious than any cat. This is a great trait in an investigator and as the Spellman’s all work as Private Investigators in San Francisco you’d be forgiven for thinking they were great at their job. And they are. Trouble is they bring it home with them (well, the office is on their home so it’s not a long commute!). However, the Spellman’s spend most of their time spying, blackmailing and investigating each other. They definitely put the fun into dysfunctional.

Izzy is the middle child, former tearaway teen and now trying to be respectable investigator after three previous books of mishaps, arrests and therapy. Izzy is a very likeable character – she likes good whiskey, junk food, Doctor Who and is trying to curb the amount of additional investigating she does. But she still has to deal with blackmailing parents, a determined but pushy younger sister, a perfect older brother – not mention the bartender Irish boyfriend and police detective friend. This book has several mysteries and investigations running through it – some are about daily family life, others are more serious and tackle police corruption, but it never feels like a heavy read.

The story is much more linear than the other Spellman books, but with just as many great lines and comedic moments. It made a great change to read something so light-hearted and sweet without feeling like I’d been dosed up on sugar! I would highly recommend this whole series if you want an entertaining and immersive look at a family that will make yours seem positively normal. One of the engaging books I’ve read in a while – and certainly different from other mysteries.

Recommended for fans of Janet Evanovich and Victoria Laurie. 8 out of 10

My Book Haul/In My Mailbox

2012-01-08T08:00:00.032Z

The Story Siren hosts a weekly meme where bloggers can share what goodies they've purchased/received this week. If you get a chance head over to The Story Siren and check out what everyone is up to!
I went a little mad this week with ordering online - still most of them haven't arrived yet, but then there were the dreaded and dreamy sales in store where I splashed out a little...

Shakespeare's Landlord - Charlaine Harris

Publisher: UK - Gollancz

Lily Bard is a loner. Other than the day-to-day workings of her cleaning and errand-running service, she pays little attention to the town around her. But when her landlord is murdered, Lily is singled out as the prime suspect, and proving her innocence will depend on finding the real killer in quiet, secretive Shakespeare.

Yay for Waterstone's sale! This was half price and as I enjoy cosy mysteries and the Sookie books this will be an interesting read of Charlaine's early work.

Someone Like You - Roald Dahl

Publisher: UK - Penguin

These eighteen tales of the macabre show Dahl's dark brilliance as a short-story writer. They are wicked (as an old man attracts the attentions of those more interested in his skin than his wellbeing), shocking (as distasteful bets are made – a daughter's hand on the identity of a glass of claret, a finger risked for a Cadillac) and blackly humorous (as a cuckolded husband receives a chance to take his revenge out on his wife's neck).

Roald Dahl's children's books are so great and twisted that I can't wait to see what he has done with these adult short stories! Plus this was another sale item!

Who Do, Voodoo? - Rochelle Staab

Publisher: Berkley

When Liz Cooper's friend Robin Bloom finds an unusual tarot card tacked to her front door, Liz writes it off as a prank. Robin refuses to ignore the omen—her late husband drew the same card, the three of swords, in a reading the night before he was killed in a car accident. As more cards and darker threats appear, Liz realizes someone very dangerous is upping the ante. Liz turns to her brother's ex-college roommate, occult expert Nick Garfield. As Nick leads her into the voodoo community to locate the origin of the deck, she can't ignore their attraction to each other. Then a woman is found murdered and Robin becomes the prime suspect. Determined to clear her friend, Liz joins forces with Nick to unravel otherworldly secrets and seek help from beyond—or risk being outwitted by a cunning killer...

This sounds like a really fun read. I picked it up as the cover caught my eye (it has a book and a cat on it!) and I haven't read a cosy mystery for a long time!

A Discovery of Witches - Deborah Harkness

Publisher: Headline

When historian Diana Bishop opens an alchemical manuscript in the Bodleian Library, it's an unwelcome intrusion of magic into her carefully ordered life. Though Diana is a witch of impeccable lineage, the violent death of her parents while she was still a child convinced her that human fear is more potent than any witchcraft. Now Diana has unwittingly exposed herself to a world she's kept at bay for years; one of powerful witches, creative, destructive daemons and long-lived vampires. Sensing the significance of Diana's discovery, the creatures gather in Oxford, among them the enigmatic Matthew Clairmont, a vampire genticist. Diana is inexplicably drawn to Matthew and, in a shadowy world of half-truths and old enmities, ties herself to him without fully understanding the ancient line they are crossing. As they begin to unlock the secrets of the manuscript and their feelings for each other deepen, so the fragile balance of peace unravels...

One of my friends has raved about this book and as was part of Amazon's Kindle sale I picked up an kindle copy (as it is a bit of a doorstop book!). Hopefully I get round to it soon!

Devil's Consort - Anne O'Brien
Publisher: MIRA Books

Orphaned at a young age, Eleanor, Duchess of Aquitaine, seeks a strong husband to keep her hold on the vast lands that have made her the most powerful heiress in Europe. But her arranged marriage to Louis VII, King of France, is made disatrous by Louis’s weakness of will and fanatical devotion to the church. Eleanor defies her husband by risking her life on an adventurous Crusade, and even challenges the Pope himself. And in young, brilliant, mercurial Henry d’Anjou, she finds her soul mate—the one man who is audacious enough to claim her for his own and make her Queen of England.

This one I picked up at the Amazon kindle sale for 99p, I haven't read any historical novels for a while and I do find myself missing them! Plus I like to mix up the genre's I read occasionally.

Finally some wins have turned up as well...
The next two books are giveaway wins from the wonderful Graeme at Graeme's Fantasy Review - I do love my zombie books!

Juggernaut - Adam Baker

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton (February 2012)

Iraq 2005 Seven mercenaries journey deep into the desert in search of Saddam's gold. They form an unlikely crew of battle-scarred privateers, killers and thieves, veterans of a dozen war zones, each of them anxious to make one last score before their luck runs out. They will soon find themselves marooned among ancient ruins, caught in a desperate battle for their lives, confronted by greed, betrayal, and an army that won't stay dead...

The Return Man - V.M. Zito

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

The outbreak tore the USA in two. The east remains a safe haven. The west has become a ravaged wilderness. They call it the Evacuated States. It is here that Henry Marco makes his living. Hired by grieving relatives, he tracks down the dead to deliver peace. Now Homeland Security wants Marco, for a mission unlike any other. He must return to California, where the apocalypse began. Where a secret is hidden. And where his own tragic past waits to punish him again. But in the wastelands of America, you never know who - or what - is watching you ...

So what have you picked up this week?

On My Wishlist #69

2012-01-07T07:00:00.051Z

This is a meme from Book Chick City. There are so many books out there that I want to read that this is the only way I can keep track! It's been a few weeks since I took part as Christmas and New Year got in the way, but there are plenty of great looking new Urban Fantasy books out there that I want to get my hands on!

Shadow Heir (Dark Swan 4) - Richelle Mead

Publisher: UK - Bantam (February 2012)

While Eugenie isn't Georgina Kincaid or Rose Hathaway, she is a powerful and independent heroine and I enjoy following her adventures through the fae world. This is supposed to be the last book in Eugenie's story and I want to know how it all ends - especially with the prophecy regarding Eugenie's son.

Unclean Spirits (Black Sun's Daughter 1) - M.L.N. Hanover

Publisher: UK - Orbit

Jayné Heller thinks of herself as a realist, until she discovers reality isn't quite what she thought it was. When her uncle Eric is murdered, Jayné travels to Denver to settle his estate, only to learn that it's all hers -- and vaster than she ever imagined. And along with properties across the world and an inexhaustible fortune, Eric left her a legacy of a different kind: his unfinished business with a cabal of wizards known as the Invisible College.

Led by the ruthless Randolph Coin, the Invisible College harnesses demon spirits for their own ends of power and domination. Jayné finds it difficult to believe magic and demons can even exist, let alone be responsible for the death of her uncle. But Coin sees Eric's heir as a threat to be eliminated by any means -- magical or mundane -- so Jayné had better start believing in something to save her own life.

I know this series has been out in the US for a while but it has just been published in the UK. I've read quite a few positive reviews of this series and I do enjoy a heroine discovering her heritage and a supernatural world!

Blue-Blooded Vamp (Sabina Kane 5) - Jaye Wells

Publisher: UK - Orbit (June 2012)

Sabina Kane is on the hunt. Her prey: Cain, the father of the vampire race and the one who murdered her family and her friends. Unfortunately, Cain is hunting Sabina, too. The one man who holds the key to defeating Cain is, of course, Abel. A mage with secrets to spare and, hopefully, the power to match it. Unfortunately, for Sabina, he's in Rome and may not want to be found. Sabina sets out for Italy with her friends, Giguhl and Adam Lazarus, to track down the only man who can get her the revenge she hungers for. But will he help her or oppose her? And just who is Abel, really? Worst of all, when Sabina figures out the goddess Lilith has a plan for her-she realizes this trip is getting deadlier by the minute. As they say: when in Rome-SURVIVE

I love this series. I just finished reading the fourth book in the series - Silver-Tongued Devil and it ends with a very definite set up for the final book...I can't wait for the summer to see if Sabina survives!

What are you wishing for this week?

Author Post: Michael Gerard Bauer + GIVEAWAY!!

2012-01-06T19:00:00.001Z

So this morning I reviewed the very funny Don't Call Me Ishmael by Michael Gerard Bauer and now I have the great pleasure of welcoming the author himself to Mel's Random Reviews. As it's the first week of a New Year, I thought I'd ask Michael to write something based on new starts or New Year/New School...

Hi everyone! It’s day 5 of my UK Blog Tour and I’m delighted to be here at Mels’ Random Reviews to tell you a bit about my book Don’t Call Me Ishmael. Mel’s given me the cryptic topic title of “New Year/New School” to work with. So here goes:

It can be a bit nerve-wracking being a new kid at a new school, right? Well two of the characters in my book Don’t Call Me Ishmael have vastly different experiences when they start off at St Daniels Boys School.

When my narrator Ishmael (bizarrely named by his parents after the narrator of Herman Melville’s classic whaling novel Moby Dick) commences his life at St Daniel’s in Grade 8, it doesn’t go that well.

On his first day Ishmael meets class bully Barry Bagsley. Barry is immediately impressed with Ishmael’s name.

“Ishmael? What kind of a wussy-crap name is that?”

As it turns out, Barry Bagsley is quite the wordsmith and it’s not long before he has very creatively transformed Ishmael’s name into various clever mutations such as Fishtail, Dishrail, Kisstail, Fishstale, Stalefish, Female and Email. There are others but maybe I shouldn’t mention them here.

Even Ishmael’s second name ‘Leseur’ isn’t immune from the Barry Bagsley extreme make-over. Pronounced ‘Le-sir’ it soon becomes Le-Sewer, Le-Spewer, Le Poo-er and finally … Manure!

Not a great start to a new school I think you’ll agree. It’s little wonder that Ishmael feels cursed by his name and blames all his problems on it. He even goes so far as to name a disease in his own honour. As you do.

“I’m fourteen years old and I have Ishmael Leseur’s Syndrome. There is no cure.”

According to Ishmael this syndrome is capable of turning an otherwise normal person into “a walking disaster area registering nine point nine on the open ended imbecile scale.” And I guess as the world’s only recorded sufferer, he should know.

But things are about to change drastically for Ishmael.

It’s the next new School Year. Grade Nine. A new boy arrives at St Daniel’s. The new boy is James Scobie. James is a short, slightly chubby, pale-skinned individual, with perfect hair, pink cheeks and a strange habit of twisting his mouth from one side of his face to the other. In Ishmael eyes, he’s the perfect target for bully Barry Bagsley.

Except …

James Scobie doesn’t act like a new boy. “His small dark eyes looked over the class as if we were all new kids and he was right at home where he’d always been.”

And it quickly becomes clear that Scobie has a not-so-secret but still very deadly weapon - his words – and they’re aimed squarely at Barry Bagsley.

“I’m sure you’re very tough and brave – after all you have to look at yourself in the mirror every day … and perhaps I should be afraid of you, because if it’s true as they stay and ‘a little knowledge is dangerous’, then I suppose you must be absolutely lethal. But I’m sorry, I’m just not. Afraid, that is.”

But how come new boy James Scobie isn’t afraid of Barry Bagsley when everyone else is? Well maybe I should let James tell you in his own words:

“Because I’m not afraid of anything.”

It seems that in the past the new boy has had a successful operation to remove a brain tumour but there was an unexpected side-effect. It also removed his ability to feel fear. Could that be true? One thing’s for sure, Barry Bagsley will definitely be putting James ‘No Fear’ Scobie to the test.

It’s a new school year and there’s a new boy at St Daniel’s. For Ishmael Leseur it’s going to be a year like no other.

If he survives it.

The man himself, Michael Gerard Bauer

Well I hope that gives you just a small taste of what to expect with Don’t Call Me Ishmael. Like I said at the start, it can be a bit nerve-wracking being a new kid at a new school and I guess in some ways I’m feeling a little bit like that, with me and my book being introduced to UK readers for the first time. But mostly, I’m just feeling very excited!

I hope that Don’t Call Me Ishmael will find a lot of new friends in the UK and that I can get the chance to meet you all - in a less virtual way - in the near future.

In the meantime I want to give a super-sized and heart felt thanks to Mel and to all the other bloggers for being so generous and for making the new kid feel so very welcome.

Cheers

Michael

You can stalk Michael on his Facebook page here or on his blog here.

Thanks Michael - that was a great tease for the book! And thanks to the generosity of Templar I have one copy of Don't Call Me Ishmael to giveaway. At publishers request it's only open to those with a UK address, I'm afraid. All you need to do is fill in the form below! Open until Midnight 12th January - Good luck!

Don't Call Me Ishmael Review

2012-01-06T08:00:00.022Z

Don’t Call Me Ishmael

- Michael Gerard Bauer

Publisher: UK – Templar

There's no easy way to put this, so I'll say it straight out. It's time I faced up to the truth. I'm fourteen years old and I have Ishmael Leseur's Syndrome. There is no cure. And there is no instant cure to not fitting in. But that won't stop Ishmael and his intrepid band of misfits from taking on bullies, bugs, babes, the Beatles, debating, and the great white whale in the toughest, the weirdest, the most embarrassingly awful...and the best year of their lives.

Ishmael is a young boy struggling with an unusual name and the horrors of growing up in a boys school where anything that makes you stand out is bad. That said, this is also a delightfully funny novel dealing with the pains of growing up and standing up for yourself and others. Some of the situations are awkward, very funny and totally relatable. Growing up we all had difficulties to overcome and people we saw every day that we wished we didn’t. And Ishmael has plenty in his life! For those in the UK this reminded me very much of a PG version of The Inbetweeners with embarrassing social encounters, loud mouthed inappropriate friends and some quiet pathos.

Ishmael has a certain charm about him – it is written from his perspective in a charming and engaging manner that I absolutely adored. I was able to loose myself entirely to the story – complete with side stories which inform and entertain. I even found myself sputtering with laughter many times – earning myself some very bizarre looks on the train! The writing was appealing and the chapters short which kept me turning the pages wanting to get just one more chapter in.

Ishmael’s friend with no fear adds a layer of poignancy to the proceedings which adds depth – and really helps as Ishmael matures over the year. He learns to stand up for himself even knowing that it might not make a difference – and even learns that everyone has an Achilles’ heel. While aimed at younger that my usual YA reads, I had an absolute blast with Ishmael and friends.

Recommended for fans of Jeff Kinney and Jacqueline Wilson. 9 out of 10

**Check Back This Afternoon for a Guest post from the awesome author himself, Michael Gerard Bauer and a giveaway!**

Darkest Powers Bonus Pack Review

2012-01-05T14:00:00.008Z

Darkest Powers Bonus Pack

- Kelley Armstrong

Kindle Books

This is actually three short reads set during the Darkest Powers trilogy, Kelley Armstrong’s first YA books.

Dangerous is set shortly before The Summoning and tells of how Derek and Simon ended up in Lyle Home from Derek’s point of view. It is good to get inside Derek’s head to see how he thinks – and even before his first change he was thinking in terms of pack and non-pack. I really enjoyed seeing how Simon and Derek fitted into ‘normal’ school life and what they were like before they lost their Dad – it was a perfect side trip into some characters we didn’t get to see much together before. 9 out of 10.

Divided is set between The Summoning and The Awakening and follows Derek and Simon while waiting for Chloe. While it was nice to see what they got up to, it didn’t really add much to the story or either character other than see how Derek felt about Chloe. 6 out of 10

Disenchanted is set at the same time as part of The Awakening and follows Simon and Tori while they separate from Derek and Chloe. Not a lot happens but it is very amusing to see Simon, Chloe and Derek from Tori’s point of view, complete with sarcastic comments. Tori also has some self-realizations during the short story and she starts to make little steps towards caring for others – even if she still has a long way to go. 7 out of 10.

Recommended for fans of the Darkest Powers series and Mythos Academy. 7.5 out of 10.

Early Review: Under The Never Sky

2012-01-04T09:00:00.000Z

Under The Never Sky

- Veronica Rossi

Publisher: HarperCollins

E-Arc courtesy of netgalley and HarperCollins

Aria is a teenager in the enclosed city of Reverie. Like all Dwellers, she spends her time with friends in virtual environments, called Realms, accessed through an eyepiece called a Smarteye. Aria enjoys the Realms and the easy life in Reverie. When she is forced out of the pod for a crime she did not commit, she believes her death is imminent. The outside world is known as The Death Shop, with danger in every direction. As an Outsider, Perry has always known hunger, vicious predators, and violent energy storms from the swirling electrified atmosphere called the Aether. A bit of an outcast even among his hunting tribe, Perry withstands these daily tests with his exceptional abilities, as he is gifted with powerful senses that enable him to scent danger, food and even human emotions. They come together reluctantly, for Aria must depend on Perry, whom she considers abarbarian, to help her get back to Reverie, while Perry needs Aria to help unravel the mystery of his beloved nephew’s abduction by the Dwellers. Together they embark on a journey challenged as much by their prejudices as by encounters with cannibals and wolves. But to their surprise, Aria and Perry forge an unlikely love - one that will forever change the fate of all who live UNDER THE NEVER SKY.

Aria lives in the pods where some humanity retreated too after the skies were covered by Aether. She is a privileged with access to the realms any time – a sort of 3D interactive, immerse internet with a realm for any type of scenario from ancient Rome to futuristic When communication to the pod her mother is working in is cut off she is desperate to find out what is happening and takes a risk which backfires. She finds herself outside of the pod for the first time and among savages who survived the Aether outside, savages like Perry, who wants to be Blood-lord of his tribe...

There is something so enticing about humanity being split in two, dating back two HG Well’s Eloi and Morlocks and this story explores similar ideas. The people inside the domes are reliant on continual access to the realms with the virtual world more real to them than the real where space and colour is limited. Outside they have adjusted to the changes in the atmosphere with little technology but heightened senses. I loved the difference between the two cultures and how we were slowly introduced to each and explore them.

Aria and Perry are both great characters –each a little young at the start but growing up fast as they learn more about the world around them and each other. There is a romance here but it never feels like insta-love and really comes from trust and respect they gain for each other their journey. It was one of my favourite YA romances because despite their feelings for each other they were realistic about how it would end and knew the difference between them and their cultures. Their journey over the mountains to find their missing family members was exciting and a good exploration of the world. Aria especially seems to change and gain confidence throughout the story - and she was definitely someone I could relate too. The supporting characters are interesting too – I really liked Marron and think there is a good story behind his outpost in the mountains.

This is an excellent addition to the YA dystopia genre with a hostile environment, antagonistic cultures and a true Romeo and Juliet style romance – complete with an tantalising glimpse of the future search. One to read quickly and start pining for the next book!

Recommended for fans of Suzanne Collins and Carrie Ryan. 8 out of 10.

Same Book/Different Cover: Dead Witch Walking

2012-01-03T10:30:00.106Z

This is an occasional feature where I compare different covers of the same book...what I'm particularly interested in are re-issued covers for the same book and recently foreign editions.

This month I'm looking at a book I've just downloaded on my kindle because I know there are many fans of this series which is one of the original Urban Fantasy series now - and because it was part of Amazon's Kindle offer - only 99p! The book is Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison - the first in the Hollows series which introduces witch Rachel Morgan...

US Cover

UK Cover 1

UK Cover 2

French Cover

Spanish Cover

German Cover

US Cover: I find the back of this model very odd - her arms seem weak and the colours are off putting to me. Not a fan.

UK Cover 1: This is very bright! The yellow would certainly stand out on shelf! I like the model on this one and the way she seems to disappear below the waist.

UK Cover 2: This is quite a generic cover these days with not much to distinguish it form other Urban Fantasy series - a little lacking to me...

Spanish Cover: I can't help thinking that the model is supposed to be a vampire! She looks very sultry and with a full moon rising in the background, I think witch would be the last supernatural creature I would think off!

French Cover: I like the miniature fairy here and the red-headed model looks like a vulnerable but intriguing heroine

German Cover: This one is the most different from the others with a bold close up of an eye with a full moon and a bat flying in the pupil. It is very striking amongst a collection of models in tight leather and jeans.

My favourite? The German although the French is a close second. Which do you prefer? :-)

Early Review: Silver-Tongued Devil

2012-01-02T09:00:00.016Z

Silver-Tongued Devil (Sabina Kane 4)

- Jaye Wells

Publisher: UK – Orbit

E-Arc courtesy of netgalley and Orbit

**Warning – Contains spoiler for the first 3 books**

Life is looking up for Sabina Kane. Now that her scheming grandmother is dead, the threat of war has passed and the rulers of the dark races are about to sign a treaty to ensure ongoing peace. Her relationship with sexy mage Adam Lazarus is strong and all her friends are around her. Even her magic training is progressing further than she ever expected. The only two dark spots in her otherwise settled life are her guilt over her sister Maisie's fragile mental state and Sabina's own sinking sense that she's got unfinished business with Cain, the mysterious cult leader she let get away months earlier. When a string of murders rock the New York dark races community and threatens to stall the peace negotiations, Sabina finds herself helping to find the killer. Her investigation leads her down troubling paths that have her questioning everything - and everyone - she knows. And the closer she gets to the murderer, the more Sabina realises this is one foe she may not able to kill.

After defeating her vampire Grandmother and the Cast of Nod, rescuing her twin sister, Maisey and finally getting together with Mage hottie, Adam, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Sabina’s worries were over. Unfortunately it turns out normal life is just as difficult as war time when you’re a half vampire, half-mage chosen one. Will Sabina ever tell Adam about her one-stand with Slade, leader of the New York vamps before she and Adam got together? Will Maisey recover from the torture their vampire grandmother put her through? Who is murdering vampires in New York? Can Sabina really live on bagged blood? And will Gighul ever ask Sabina onto his roller-ball team?

It took less than a page for me to catch up with Sabina and immerse myself in her world again. She has changed so much since we first met her in Red-Headed Stepchild, finally learning to trust and open up to others – particularly her boyfriend Adam. She is now surrounded by those who care for her, from Gighul - her demon minion, Maisey - her twin sister, Ruth - Adam’s aunt and Sabina’s magic mentor and many other friends. But she is still opinionated, prone to avoiding verbal confrontation, snarky, kick-butting and strangely vulernable.

The story starts out strangely domesticated – even with a couple of gruesome murders and upcoming peace talks to worry about, but by the end the stakes are raised so high, both personally and for the world that I’m left desperate for the next book to see what happens next. There is some great relationship moments as Sabina learns how much she is trusted and cared for, as well as some clever mirroring if what she was like at the start of the series. The dream sequences are bizarre and captivating. The action sequences are involving and feel like you have to duck as the punches come out of the page.

This is a great series where the heroine is a genuinely conflicted and you want her to find her humanity – even if she is half vampire and half mage! A series which has just as many emotional events as action packed ones.

Recommended for fans of Jennifer Estep and Patricia Briggs. 9 out of 10

My Book Haul/ In My Mailbox

2012-01-01T07:00:00.006Z

The Story Siren hosts a weekly meme where bloggers can share what goodies they've purchased/received this week. If you get a chance head over to The Story Siren and check out what everyone is up to!

Now Christmas is truly over, my book buying ban has finished - and I made good use of it this week!

Shaedes of Gray - Amanda Bonilla
Publisher: Signet

In the shadows of the night, Darian has lived alone for almost a century. Made and abandoned by her former love, Darian is the last of her kind—an immortal Shaede who can slip into darkness as easily as breathing. With no one else to rely on, she has taught herself how to survive, using her unique skills to become a deadly assassin. When Darian's next mark turns out to be Xander Peck, King of the Shaede Nation, her whole worldview is thrown into question. Darian begins to wonder if she's taken on more than her conscience will allow. But a good assassin never leaves a job unfinished...

Since I first started seeing this popping on wishlists I thought it was right up by Urban Fantasy street and then when browsing on fishpondworld I saw it being sold for £1.99 with postage - that's an offer I can't refuse!

Once Every Never - Lesley Livingston

Publisher: Penguin

Clarinet Reid is a pretty typical teenager. On the surface. She’s smart, but a bit of slacker; outgoing, but just a little insecure; not exactly a mischief-maker… but trouble tends to find her wherever she goes. Also? She unwittingly carries a centuries-old Druid Blood Curse running through her veins. Now, with a single thoughtless act, what started off as the Summer Vacation in Dullsville suddenly spirals into a deadly race to find a stolen artifact, avert an explosive catastrophe, save a Celtic warrior princess, right a dreadful wrong that happened centuries before Clare was even born, and if there’s still time—literally—maybe even get a date. This is the kind of adventure that happens to a girl once every… never.

This was only £3.99 on Fishpondworld and I've been meaning to try them out so I thought this would be an experiment. Honest. Plus it looks like a lot of fun! :-)

Eye of the Tempest (Jane True 4) - Nicole Peeler
Publisher: UK - Orbit

Nothing says "home" like being attacked by humans with very large guns, as Jane and Anyan discover when they arrive in Rockabill. These are professionals, brought into kill, and they bring Anyan down before either Jane or the barghest can react. Seeing Anyan fall awakens a terrible power within Jane, and she nearly destroys herself taking out their attackers. Jane wakes, weeks later, to discover that she's not the only thing that's been stirring. Something underneath Rockabill is coming to life: something ancient, something powerful, and something that just might destroy the world. Jane and her friends must act, striking out on a quest that only Jane can finish. For whatever lurks beneath the Old Sow must be stopped...and Jane's just the halfling for the job.

I love Jane True and having finished Tempest's Legacy I was desperate to get my hands on the next book! I can't wait to start reading this!

Fate's Edge (The Edge 3) - Ilona Andrews

Publisher: Ace Fantasy

Audrey Callahan left behind her life in the Edge, and she's determined to stay on the straight and narrow. But when her brother gets into hot water, the former thief takes on one last heist and finds herself matching wits with a jack of all trades...
Kaldar Mar-a gambler, lawyer, thief, and spy-expects his latest assignment tracking down a stolen item to be a piece of cake, until Audrey shows up. But when the item falls into the hands of a lethal criminal, Kaldar realizes that in order to finish the job, he's going to need Audrey's help...

I actually pre-ordered this months ago - and it turned up at last! I still haven't read the second in The Edge series, Bayou Moon but now I can read both without a long wait between them. :-)

Tyger, Tyger (Goblin Wars 1) - Kersten Hamilton

Publisher: Clarion Publisher

Seeing as I won the sequel last week I decided to pick up the first book in the series so I could start at the beginning!

What have you picked up this week?

Mel's Random December

2011-12-31T08:00:00.099Z

It's the 31st December? Already?! Where has this year gone?!? Unsurprisingly December has been all about Christmas which a quiet family focused day for me. But I did enjoy have most of this week just gone off from work - especially as my cousins are over from Canada and I was able to spend a most of the week as a tour guide around London which included visits to the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park and M&M World at Leicester Square...I love playing the tourist in my home town occasionally - especially as I can use the tube without consulting the map and I know where the nearest loos are! :-)

M+M World - every colour m+m!

So how does the month's reading situation look like?

Books
Tortal and Other Lands - Tamora Pierce
Deadtown - Nancy Holzner
Touch of Frost - Jennifer Estep
Twelve Days of Christmas - Trisha Ashley
13 Tales of Horror - Edited Christopher Pike
India Dark - Kirsty Murray

E-Books
Taken By The Others (H+W Investigations) - Jess Haines
First Frost - Jennifer Estep
Touch of Power - Maria V Synder
Every Other Day - Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Enchanted Again - Robin D Owens

Sarah's Reviews
Two reviews from Sarah this month
The Cornerstone - Nick Spalding
Touch The Dark - Karen Chance

Regular Posts
Creature Feature looked at the Ultimate Paranormal love triangle between a girl and her vampire and were love interests.
Same Book/Different Cover looked at Kitty & the Midnight Hour
In addition there were the usual wishlist posts, in my mailbox and Throwback Thursdays.

Look Back Over 2011
This last week I've posted a few articles looking back over the last year including
Things I Have Learnt about Blogging
2011 Reading Challenges Round Up
Throwback Thursday 2011 Summary
and of course - my favourite books of 2011 - with Giveaway!

Highlight of the Month: Ooo, toughie this month. It's a three way tie between - Deadtown, Touch of Frost and Every Other Day...

What was your December like?

My Favourite Books of 2011 + GIVEAWAY!

2011-12-30T09:00:00.106Z

2011 is the first full year of my little blog and already this week I’ve looked back at the things I’ve done this year, but I'm missing something...what is it? ...hmmm...oh, yeah – the books I read and fell in love with this year! J

This year has been a bumper year for reading, with plenty of good books from my beloved series and a few new authors I’ve discovered...so I’ve narrowed down some of my favourites and can’t resist sharing them with you. And to prove how generous I am, I’m going to give TWO lucky people the chance to choose one of my favourite books for their very own. Just have a look at my choices and fill in the form at the bottom of this post. Open Internationally until 6^th January 2011.

Favourite Books in Continuing Series (All these books are from series that I try and buy as soon as the next book is released! If you haven’t started these series yet, you can choose any book from the series in the giveaway!)

Green-Eyed Demon (Sabine Kane 3) – Jaye Wells: Sabina is one my favourite UF series – and this was the best book yet!

Changes (Dresden Files 12) – Jim Butcher: Harry Dresden is one of my favourite characters ever!

Shady Lady (Corine Solomon 3) – Ann Aguirre: This was the best Corine book yet with plenty of action and adventure

Magic Slays (Kate Daniels 5) – Ilona Andrews: Curran and Kate are a fantasic couple!

New Urban Fantasy Authors (These are author’s I’ve discovered in the last year and have added to my must buy list!)

Embers – Laura Bickle: Such an atmospheric and fantastic story – plus I adore Sparky! J

Rogue Oracle – Alyana Williams: The bad guy here is so creepy – I just can’t get the idea of such a mutant out of my head...*shudders*

Deadtown – Nancy Holzner: An Urban Fantasy series that starts with a bang!

YA Books

Inside Out – Maria V Synder: A long time fan of her fantasy series, now Maria tries her hand at Dystopia and write an exciting tale!

Rot and Ruin – Jonathan Maberry: FANTASTIC – everyone should read it!

Vampire Academy: Last Sacrifice – Richelle Mead: Do I need to say anything?

Touch of Frost (Mythos Academy) – Jennifer Estep: Such a fun read – I loved it!

0.4 – Mike Lancaster: Such a different and unique story

Every Other Day - Jennifer Lynn Barnes: Buffy-esque adventure with plenty of violence and snark

Fantasy Books

The Spirit Thief/ The Spirit Rebellion/The Spirit Eater – Rachel Aaron: A fantastically fun fantasy series with some great characters – and I just adore Eli Monpress!

Touch of Power - Maria V Synder: The start to a new series that looks like it will be worth waiting for!

Hard to classify but great reads

American Gods – Neil Gaimen: A fantastic journey across America

Shades of Grey – Jasper Fforde: A Unique vision of the future where colours are rationed

Dystopian Books

Aftertime – Sophie Littlefield: A brilliant search for her daughter after a zombie plague – brilliant read!

It was really hard to narrow down my favourites to these few – there are plenty of others I wanted to include as well but I had to pick the best of the best – and the ones I can still remember the emotional journey of each one! So you have your choice to win one of these books (or any other book by any of these authors!) Just fill in this form...

And what do you think of my choices? Did I miss your favourite book of the year out?

<<GIVEAWAY CLOSED>>

Early Review: India Dark

2011-12-29T14:00:00.010Z

India Dark

- Kirsty Murray

Publisher: UK – Templar

Released on 2nd January 2012

MADRAS, 1910: two girls are caught up in a scandal that will change their lives forever. Singing and dancing across a hundred stages in a troupe of child performers, they travel by steam train into the heart of India. But as one disaster follows another, money runs short and tempers fray. What must the girls do to protect themselves, and how many lives will be ruined if they try to break free?

India Dark is set in a totally different time when empires were still strong and evening entertainment was watching teenage children preform music hall numbers. So much has changed – empires are not really allowed anymore and anyone paying to watch pubescent children dress as an adult is usually arrested shortly after! India Dark follows the Lilliputians, a group of pre-teen and teenaged boys and girls singing and dancing troop on a tour in India in 1910 with the focus on one confident thirteen year old, Tilly Sweetrick, on her second tour and one unsure eleven year old, Posey Swift, on her first tour.

The story is told in first person from both their perspectives and switches every chapter or so. This style does give you two very different views and allows you to take a step back as it were to read between the lines of what is said and what isn’t. At times Posey comes across as too naïve and innocent – and you really wonder how much she understood about what was happening. At the same time Tilly does across as very manipulative and wise beyond her years.

The descriptions of the stops and events of the tour are well told and engaging. The writing was simple and charming, bringing to life a forgotten era of entertainment. However, I was never fully comfortable with the subject matter – especially as it was based on a true story! I felt sorry for Mr Arthur, the leader of the troop but at the same time I didn’t think he behaved well either. It’s one of those situations that there is no black and white – just shades of grey. However, the characters, that year and the country are brought vividly to life and were an enjoyable change to my usual YA reading.

Recommended for fans of Mary Hooper and Mary Hoffman. 7 out of 10

Throwback Thursday 2011 Summary

2011-12-29T09:00:00.007Z

This is a great feature that Melissa at My World...in words and pictures has been doing for a while which looks at those wonderful books that are ALREADY on my shelves that we haven't got round to reading yet. I've spent quite a few Thursdays looking at books I own but haven't read and I thought it would be fun to look back over those books I've highlighted and see how good I've been at actually reading them!

The Better Part of Darkness - Kelly Gay: Still Unread

Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell - Susanna Clarke: Still Unread

The Eye of the World - Robert Jordan: Still Unread

Glass Houses (Morganville Vampires 1) - Rachel Caine: Still Unread
Magic Lost, Trouble Found - Lisa Shearin: Still Unread
The Reincarnationist - MJ Rose: Still Unread
Black Magic Woman - Justin Gustainis: Still Unread
The One Kingdom - Sean Russell: Still Unread
Hunted By The Others - Jess Haines: Read! Review here
The Angel's Game - Carlos Ruiz Zafon: Still Unread
Memoirs of Cleopatra - Margaret George: Still Unread
The Iron Duke - Meljean Brook: Still Unread
Ghost Ocean - S.M. Peters: Still Unread
One Foot In The Grave - Jeaniene Frost: Still Unread
Room - Emma Donoghue: Still Unread
The Edge of the World - Kevin J Anderson: Still Unread
Blood Oath - Christopher Farnsworth: Still Unread
Angel Time - Anne Rice: Still Unread
Gone - Michael Grant: Still Unread
Lord of Silence - Mark Chadbourn: Still Unread

Across The Universe - Beth Revis: Still Unread

Twice Bitten - Chloe Neill: Read! Review here

Cursed - David Wellington: Still Unread

Lord of the Changing Winds - Rachel Neumeier: Still Unread

Curiosity Thrilled The Cat - Sofie Kelly: Still Unread
Deadline (Newsflesh 2) - Mira Grant: Still Unread
Under Dome - Stephen King: Still Unread
Sixty-One Nails - Mike Shevdon: Still Unread
Mind Games - Carolyn Crane: Still Unread
The House of Special Purpose - John Boyne: Still Unread
Gene of Isis - Traci Harding: Still Unread
Bayou Moon - Ilona Andrews: Still Unread
Heart of Stone - CE Murphy: Still Unread
Hade's Daughter - Sara Douglass: Still Unread
The Enchantment Emporium - Tanya Huff: Still Unread

So to summarise 35 books highlighted and only 2 read in that time. That's useless! I really need to raid my TBR pile more often...luckily one of the challenges I've signed up for this year is the 2012 TBR pile Reading Challenge so all these can go into the list of ones to read in the coming year.

What books have you had on your TBR pile for far too long? :-)

What a challenging year...

2011-12-28T10:00:00.096Z

At the start of 2011 I agreed to participate in 3 official reading challenges and 1 personal challenge - now the year is all but over, how did I get on with each challenge?

Mystery & Suspense Reading Challenge 2011
Hosted by Book Chick City

Details

Timeline: 01 Jan 2011 - 31 Dec 2011

Rules: To read TWELVE (12) mystery & suspense novels in 2011 (12 is the minimum but you can read more if you wish!)

Books Read in Challenge: 13/12 Books
Book 1: The Five Greatest Warrior - Matthew Reilly
Book 2: Full Dark House - Christopher Fowler
Book 3: Mistress of the Art of Death - Ariana Franklin
Book 4: Sanctus - Simon Toyne
Book 5: Sacrifice - SJ Bolton
Book 6: Breathless - Dean Koontz
Book 7: The Tenth Chamber - Glenn Cooper
Book 8: Now You See Me - S.J. Bolton
Book 9: Hard Spell - Justin Gustainis
Book 10: The Quarry - Johan Theorin

Book 11: Death Sentence - Mikkel Birkegaard
Book 12: Crippen - John Boyne
Book 13: The Burning Wire - Jeffery Deaver

My Thoughts: So I read 13 books - more than the 12 that were required. Challenge complete! I have to admit though that this was a genuine challenge as mystery and suspense books are not my regular fall back and occasionally throughout the year I had to read books just to make sure I was getting on with the challenge! But this was good as it broke me out of my regular reading habits and I did read some great books - Now You See Me, Hard Spell and Full Dark House are great reads for anyone. I did consider signing up for this challenge again for 2012, but thought I would try to experiment with some different challenges!

Speculative Fiction 2011

Hosted by Floor To Ceiling Books

Details

Timeline: 01 Jan 2011 - 31 Dec 2011

Rules: To read 12 Speculative Fiction novels in 2011 (12 is the minimum - you can read more if you wish!)

Books Read in Challenge: 19/12 Books
Book 1: The Spirit Thief - Rachel Aaron
Book 2: Foundation - Issac Asimov
Book 3: The Magician's Apprentice - Trudi Canavan
Book 4: The Fallen Blade - Jon Courtenay Grimwood
Book 5: I Am Number Four - Pittacus Lore
Book 6: Foundation and Empire - Issac Asimov
Book 7: American Gods - Neil Gaiman
Book 8: Spirit Dances - CE Murphy
Book 9: Shades of Grey - Jasper Fforde
Book 10: Second Foundation - Issac Asimov
Book 11: The Neon Court - Kate Griffin
Book 12: Married with Zombies - Jesse Petersen
Book 13: Morlock Night - K.W. Jeter
Book 14: Secrets of the Demon - Diana Rowland
Book 15: Change - Jim Butcher
Book 16: Hunted By The Others - Jess Haines
Book 17: Corsets and Clockwork - Trisha Telep
Book 18: Magic Slays - Ilona Andrews
Book 19: Black Swan Rising - Lee Carroll

My Thoughts: Although I counted 19 books for this challenge but as speculative fiction is probably my favourite type of reading, I know the number should be a lot higher! Overall, this was a pretty easy challenge and not that challenging...so I don't think I'll be doing this again. I did have a thought though...isn't all fiction speculative to some degree - whether it is high fantasy or contemporary romance, it's all made up and therefore speculative. Still it was a fun to take part in!

YA of the 80s and 90s

Hosted by The Book Vixen

Details
Runs January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011
Read as many YA books that were originally published in the 80s and 90s as your heart desires. The only requirement is that the book(s) have to have been first published sometime between 1980 – 1999.

Books Read in Challenge: 15/12 Books
Book   1: Nightmare Hall: The Scream Team - Diane Hoh
Book   2: Deepwater Black - Ken Catran
Book 3: Deepwater Landing - Ken Catran
Book   4: Deepwater Angels - Ken Catran
Book   5: Remember Me - Christopher Pike
Book 6: The Last Vampire - Christopher Pike
Book   7: The Last Vampire: Black Blood - Christopher Pike
Book   8: Nightmare Hall: The Roommate - Diane Hoh
Book   9: Remember 2: The Return - Christopher Pike
Book 10: Remember 3: The Last Story - Christopher Pike
Book 11: Sweet Valley High: Perfect Summer - Francine Pascal
Book 12: Teacher's Pet - Richie Tankersley Cusick
Book 13: The Last Vampire: Red Dice - Christopher Pike
Book 14: The Last Vampire: Phantom - Christopher Pike
Book 15: 13 Tales of Horror - Edited by Christopher Pile

My Thoughts: This was a fan challenge! Throughout the year I read 15 books that were originally published in the 80s and 90s aimed at teens. As this was roughly when I was a teenager it was a very nostalgic trip for me and interesting to see how YA has changed. The most notable element was how short YA was back then - typically 200 pages or so. But there were some interesting stories, ideas and characters packed into the short page count and much less teen angst! I don't know if this challenge is being run again for next year, but I still a couple of books I picked up at charity stores for this challenge that I haven't read yet so expect to see a few more reviews for YA of the 80s and 90s...

Personal Classic Challenge

Challenged by Kris

My friend Kris has set a challenge for me to read a classic every three months. Below are his terms:

Firstly the classic must be a classic or at least 20 years old;
it has to set a definition for the genre or change it in a way which ‘inspire’ later writers;
available for free or a reduced price and
semi easy to read.

So my task for Mel is to read:

Homer’s Odyssey – this is the cornerstone of Western Cannon and seems to have the basis for most fantasy. Easements: You can read a modern version (i.e. made into something that is easier to read).
Isaac Asimov’s Foundation, Foundation and Empire and Second Foundation. Yes I know it is three books, but they are short ones. They are very good and they are the foundation (not a pun) for modern space epic’s such as Iain M Banks Culture and Star Trek. The Foundation series was published in 1942 and then collected in proper book in the 50s.
Ring World by Larry Niven. I thought it looked quite good. It is a interesting story about a space structure.
Conan the Barbarian by Robert E. Howard I have not read these book, but I think they may underpin some hero fantasy or it might be tripe

Books Read in Challenge: 6 books

Book 1: Foundation - Issac Asimov
Book 2: Foundation and Empire - Issac Asimov
Book 3: Second Foundation - Issac Asimov
Book 4: The War of the Worlds - HG Wells
Book 5: The Invisible Man - HG Wells
Book 6: The Midwich Cuckoo - John Wyndham

Book 7: Frankenstein - Mary Shelley

My Thoughts: This was a challenge set my friend Kris and officially I did read a classic at least every three months. I think those books inspired future writers and were easy to read and get hold off. However, off the books listed above I only read the Foundation series by Issac Asimov - although I do now own Ringworld, just never got a chance to start reading it! So did I complete this challenge? There's only one person who can answer that...Kris - how did I do? :-)

Kris' Thoughts: When I set this challenge, I was also going secretly read these books in parallel. However, I could not keep up with Mel. The other reason to set a challenge was to hook Mel into the world of Sci-Fi as Mel hooked me into Fantasy. The classics I chose were a mixture of Fantasy (Odyssey and Conan) and Hard Sci-Fi (Foundation and Ringworld). I had read the Foundation Series of books before I set the challenge and I was very nervous that Mel would not like them. I was pleased that Mel enjoyed them <insert blog post links here>. They are interesting books that are more about people and society than Dilithum Crystals. This prompted a conversation between Mel and Myself about these books, which gave me the feeling of being cultured. I hope it inspires Mel to read more of Asimov's works. Homers Odyssey is something would be a challenge to read. It is a classic book and would be hard going. This was more of an aspiration target. I have it in my bookcase and it looks at me (although it looks a lot more readable than any Dan Brown Book).

On balance, Mel has met the challenge and surpassed it. Well done.

Yay me! So I'm four for four on 2011 Challenges! Lets hope 2012 goes as well!