Deadlocked (Sookie #12) Review

Deadlocked (Sookie Stackhouse #12)

Charlaine Harris 

Publisher: Gollancz

Sookie has a murder investigation on her hands. A young girl has died at a vampire party - and it looks as though her lover, Eric, might be responsible. Eric swears he didn't do it, the police don't believe him, and even Sookie isn't so sure. Nor is she inclined to take his word for it, not having caught him enjoying the victim's blood minutes before she was killed. But something strange is going on. Why had Sookie been asked to come to the fateful party a few minutes early - just to catch Eric in the act? And why had the victim spiked her own blood before approaching Eric? Was it simply because she wanted to be irresistable, or was it something more sinister? Sookie will have to find out ... but it's the worst moment to investigate, as her Fae family are having troubles of their own and Sookie is, inevitably, drawn in. And there is one last complication. The cluviel dor her grandmother left her. It will grant her one wish, which could fulfil Sookie's heart's desire. The only problem is, she still doesn't know what - or who - her heart truly desires...

The end of the Sookie Stackhouse series is in sight (for me at least as I wait for the paperbacks to come out!) and once again it was nice to revisit Sookie and her world. I find it difficult to remember that for her only two years have passed since Bill Compton first walked into Merlottes but for it’s been over 10 years. Sookie’s world has always been a mixture of the miniature of life (shopping, birthday cards, sunbathing, shaving her legs etc) with some serious violence and supernatural politics. This visit to Bon Temps was like seeing old school friends again after an absence – you remember the good times and catch up but you know you’ll never re-capture that closeness you had when you were fifteen. 

Sookie and her vampire honey, Eric are having issues – partly due to someone trying to frame Eric for murder of a fangbanger and partly as struggle to reconcile some pretty big differences in their attitudes. Adding to the difficulties are the motley mixture of fae Sookie’s cousin Claude has been collecting at his strip club and some power struggles within the local werewolf pack. One issue with Sookie’s world is the number of different plot lines that don’t always go together well – my favourite books have always been the ones that have focused on a single plot line (Vampire summit, Hadley’s murder, Bill’s disappearance etc). Here the different strands of plots meant that I struggled to follow what was going on and the climax had less impact as a result. It was like trying to follow a single strand of spaghetti on a full plate.

That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy the book. Sookie is never less than a likeable character who’s absolutes of right and wrong have become greyer over time. She’s more than happy to lie to the police to protect Eric and the vampires, yet is still kind and true in her friendships. The writing is so cosy and warm – Charlaine’s writing always makes me feel like I’m sinking into a huge armchair covered in cushions. Overall, this had a definite sense that the end is in sight with some plot strands wound up and some happy ending on the horizon. While people often say the series isn’t as good as it once I actually think the series has remained remarkably consistent over the last ten years. It’s one of the first UF (Rural) Fantasy series I read and I have never felt like dropping the series. I am looking forward to the final book in the series and think it’s right that we leave Sookie to some (hopefully) quiet time.

Recommended for fans of Rachel Caine and Patricia Briggs. 7 out of 10.

Frost Burned (Mercy Thompson #7) Review

Frost Burned (Mercy Thompson #7)

Patricia Briggs

Publisher: Orbit

Mercy Thompson's life has undergone a seismic change. Becoming the mate of Adam Hauptman - the charismatic Alpha of the local werewolf pack - has made her a stepmother to his daughter Jesse, a relationship that brings moments of blissful normalcy to Mercy's life. But on the edges of humanity, a minor mishap on an ordinary day can turn into so much more. After an accident in bumper-to-bumper traffic, Mercy and Jesse can't reach Adam - or anyone else in the pack for that matter. They've all been abducted. Through their mating bond, all Mercy knows is that Adam is angry and in pain. Outclassed and on her own, Mercy may be forced to seek assistance from the most unlikely of allies: the vampire seethe.

When I think back to the Mercy Thompson we met in Moon Called who was a very isolated and independent girl, it’s a very different woman who still manages to kick-butt in Frost Burned but has a wide selection of friends, family and pack to support her. In Frost Burned Adam and the rest of the pack are kidnapped and it’s up to Mercy to protect those left behind.

Mercy has help from some powerful friends but she also has those who could end up in trouble from their relationship with her. It was great seeing how these relationships have developed and evolved – and I have to say it was great to see all characters I loved from the previous books show up after the two-hander that was River Marked. Mercy has definitely become someone who will fight for those she loves and it was just as nice to see the softer side of her as well. For the first time a couple of chapters are told from Adam’s point of view and this insight into his head is a nice way of expanding the world and allowing us into a werewolf’s head. I also loved the visit of a wolf from the Martocks pack that we’ve met in the Alpha & Omega series!

There is plenty of action with fae, wolves, vampires and humans all getting some action. The impact of the fae action at the end of Fair Game, the Alpha and Omega novel is touched on but the full repercussions are still being discussed – which gives the feel that this world is much bigger than just Mercy, Adam and the pack. The writing just pulls you in and doesn’t let go until the end as first the actions and then the reasons behind them are teased out and played with. Who are the true monsters?

This is one of the most consistent UF series and one of my favourites with a leading lady who you root for as well as a knack of getting into more trouble than a coyote really should. But when her friends and family are this good I just want to spend more time with this world. How long until the next book...?

Recommended for fans of Kelley Armstrong and Nicole Peeler. 9 out of 10

Guest Review: Silver Borne (Mercy Thompson #5)

While we were away on holiday last week my guest reviewer Sarah went through just as many books as me so I've asked her what she thought of one of my favourites...

Silver Bourne (Mercry Thompson #5)
Patricia Briggs

Publisher: Orbit

Being a mechanic is hard work. Mercy Thompson, for instance, just spent the last couple of months trying to evade the murderous queen of the local vampire seethe. And now the leader of the werewolf pack, who's maybe-more-than-just-a-friend, has asked for her help. A book of fae secrets has come to light and they're all about to find out how implacable - and dangerous - the fae can be. 
OK, so maybe her troubles have nothing to do with the job. But she sure could use a holiday...

Ah dear, back from a lovely week away with Mel in Portugal, to her sad loss, and a crazy week trying to deal with a week’s missed work, and an imploding iphone.  Finally there though, so I can now get down to reviewing one of the books I read whilst I was away. 

Now, from my previous reviews of Patricia Briggs’ series, you’ll know how much I love the very real, very likeable, coyote-shape-shifting heroine Mercy Thompson, so I won’t bore you by rehashing just how much I LOVE her!  Instead I’ll limit myself to the story itself.  There has yet to be even a vaguely weak story in this series, and Silver Borne is no exception. 

Arc plots are furthered - including the continuing repercussions from Mercy’s rape (which are so emotionally resonant they make your stomach squirm), the so-magic-its-almost-sentient fae walking stick, and Mercy’s relationship with Adam and the pack - but do not mistake this for a filler book, there is plenty of novel to get your teeth into.  The main sequences place Mercy at odds with homicidal, power-hungry fae, but when the sub-plot concerns Samuel, you know there will be no place for skim-reading.  Samuel’s story takes a turn that is so out of left-field I was bowled over – without giving the game away, Briggs yet again tackles an emotionally sensitive issue with power, passion and precision.

Whilst book 4 has been my favourite in the series thus far, that opinion does not decry in the least from Silver Borne, which was a captivating, pacey read with real depth, showcasing once again Briggs’ ridiculous talent as a fantasy author.  One for fans of Kelley Armstrong and Carrie Vaughn, 9 out of 10.

Grave Memory (Alex Craft #3) Review

Grave Memory (Alex Craft #3)

Kalayna Price

Publisher: UK – Berkley

As a Grave Witch, Alex solves murders by raising the dead—an ability that comes at a cost, and after her last few cases, that cost is compounding. But her magic isn’t the only thing causing havoc in her life. While she’s always been on friendly terms with Death himself, things have recently become a whole lot more close and personal. Then there’s her sometime partner, agent Falin Andrews, who is under the glamour of the Winter Queen. To top everything off, her best friend has been forever changed by her time spent captive in Faerie. But the personal takes a backseat to the professional when a mysterious suicide occurs in Nekros City and Alex is hired to investigate. The shade she raises has no memory of the days leading up to his brutal ending, so despite the very public apparent suicide, this is murder. But what kind of magic can overcome the human will to survive? And why does the shade lack the memory of his death? Searching for the answer might mean Alex won’t have a life to remember at all...

It is now confirmed: Alex Craft is one of my favourite UF series. It has great characters, pacy plot, interesting magic, duplicitous fae and real heart. Alex continues to discover some of her hidden heritage while learning more about Death’s world and dealing with a serial killer who kills via suicide...so just a normal week for Alex then!

Alex is a great heroine – she’s tough and independent without being cold or distant at all. Her family past is difficult but she’s created a new family of friends for herself with her business partner and fellow Grave Witch Rhiannon, her roommates and even her strained relationships with Falin, the Winter Queen’s Bloody Hand and Death, the Soul Collector. The range of characters and relationships are what has kept drawing me back to this series. I want to see how the relationships develop and feel included in their banter. It’s even one of the few love triangles that doesn’t bug me – I like both love interests but not sure she belongs with either!

This story is fast-paced with some great scenes that stick in the mind long after. There is some movement of the big arc as well which is interesting and rewarding for those following the series. Oh, and that ending... I’ve already pre-ordered Grave Visions, the fourth book in this series – it’ll feel like a long wait till the summer though!

Recommended for fans of Ilona Andrews and Jim Butcher. 9 out of 10

Grave Dance (Alex Craft #2) Review

Grave Dance (Alex Craft #2)

Kalayna Price

Publishers: UK – Berkley

 After a month spent recovering from a vicious fight with a sorcerer, grave witch Alex Craft is ready to get back to solving murders by raising the dead. With her love life in turmoil thanks to the disappearance of Fae Investigation Bureau agent Falin Andrews and a shocking “L” word confession from Death himself, Alex is eager for the distractions of work. But her new case turns out to be a deadly challenge. The police hire Alex to consult on a particularly strange investigation in the nature preserve south of Nekros City. The strange part: There are no corpses, only fragments of them. A serial killer is potentially on the loose, and Alex has no way to raise a shade without a body, so she’ll have to rely on the magic of others to find leads. But as she begins investigating, a creature born of the darkest magic comes after her. Someone very powerful wants to make sure the only thing she finds is a dead end—her own.

This is definitely one of those series that started out strong but has gotten stronger! I was thrown straight back into the world and loved Alex, her friends, her job and even her two potential suitors are great characters that I loved getting to know better. I can completely understand for once why Alex is unable to choose between the two men in her live. Usually love triangles annoy me as one of the men is obviously the one she will choose from the beginning and I just want the heroine to stop stringing them both along, but here both characters have their flaws and both seem to genuinely care for despite the difficulties in perusing a relationship for very different reasons. Neither choice would be an easy option though…

With Alex’s Grave Witch powers explored in the first book, we now get a chance to look at her fey inheritance and explore fae itself. The Winter Court is an intriguing place as is stasis and some of the other areas Alex find on her investigation. One of the elements that I like about that Alex is that she isn’t a loner but has friends and colleagues who’s opinion matters and we get to learn a little more about Alex’s housemates as well…although a few questions were left unanswered which only makes me anxious to read the book in the series!

This is an easy to read Urban Fantasy with great characters and a very satisfying central mystery. More of the world is explored but more questions are raised and I think Alex is rapidly becoming one of my favourite heroines – she’s certainly one character that I would like to be friends with! Highly recommended series for those who like a little witch and fae in their UF and a genuine love triangle.

Recommended for fans of Jeanienne Frost and Kelley Armstrong. 9 out of 10

Guest Review: Iron Kissed (Mercy Thompson #3)

Iron Kissed (Mercy Thompson #3)
- Patricia Briggs

Publisher: UK - Orbit

Mechanic Mercy Thompson can shift her shape - but not her loyalty. When her former boss and mentor is arrested for murder and left to rot behind bars by his own kind, it's up to Mercy to clear his name, whether he wants her to or not. Mercy's loyalty is under pressure from other directions, too. Werewolves are not known for their patience, and if Mercy can't decide between the two she cares for, Sam and Adam may make the choice for her.

Hello Mel followers, I’m back because I literally just finished this book, and had to review it instantly.  To those of you whom haven’t been introduced to this series yet, our heroine Mercy Thompson is a fiercely independent skinwalker, brought up by werewolves and now working in a garage she bought from a gremlin.  Yes, these books are as Urban Fantasy as you can get, and as good a read as your likely to find in the genre.

I fell in love with Mercy very early in book 1, but this installment has firmly cemented her, and this series, into my favourite reads.  I think this is primarily because, like Mercy, I HATE being told what to do.  In fact, I will often change my plan simply because someone told me to do something.  In reality I think this would mean that Mercy and I would be either best of friends or mortal enemies!  Aside from Mercy though, the supporting cast are anything but bit-players.  Like Kelley Armstrong, Patricia Briggs manages to create a large cast of well-rounded figures that you really care about, as well as a love triangle that is truly tangled (although, for once, it looks like going the way I want!).

Iron Kissed itself is one hell of a read – by the time the story reached it height I was literally breathless with the adrenaline rush, and had to postpone starting work just so I could finish it.  In the aftermath of Mercy’s deadly dance with fae, humans and weres her emotions were so involvingly described that it had me in tears, and the revelation about an antagonistic side character’s past was well-played.

If you haven’t started this series yet, please don’t jump in at book 3, just get here as quickly as you can…  One for fans of Kelley Armstrong, 9 out of 10.

Audiobook Review: Stardust

Stardust

Written & Read by Neil Gaiman

One fateful night, Tristran promises his beloved that he will retrieve a fallen star for her from beyond the Wall that stands between their rural English town (called, appropriately, Wall) and the Faerie realm. No one ever ventures beyond the Wall except to attend an enchanted flea market that is held every nine years (and during which, unbeknownst to him, Tristran was conceived). But Tristran bravely sets out to fetch the fallen star and thus win the hand of his love.

There is something nice about listening to an audio book read by the author. It brings you a step closer to the story with all the emphasis and inflections base don on how the author originally envisioned the characters and plot. In addition Neil Gaiman does do a good job with the narration weaving a magical world and wonderful characters in a fairy tale way. And this book is very much a fairy tale involving magical curses, wicked witches, unicorns and many other elements which seem half familiar and yet unique. It all has the feeling of a dream or a story you’ve heard before but can’t quite narrow down in your head where.

Tristen is a determined, slightly naïve but utterly charming hero who promises to bring back a fallen star for his love in exchange for whatever he desires. His journey to find the fallen star and adventures to bring it home again are a compelling story which will keep you enthralled. Indeed I couldn’t stop listening to this story and stayed in for the whole day to hear of his adventures! I loved the way the different plot elements wove together – not always touching but building a tapestry of the land beyond the little village of Wall in the middle of England. This is mostly a road trip with some unusual characters which add various degrees of colour to the story and will put a little smile on your face.

This is the second Neil Gaimen book which has utterly astounded and amused me (the other being American Gods) – and made me determined to try some of his other books. Oh, and I’d highly recommend the film as well – it is a beautiful story with much of the same feel as the book despite some large departures in terms of story and action. I great audio story and one I will listen to again – soon!

Recommended for fans of William Goldman and Gregory Maguire. 8.5 out of 10

Dead Reckoning Review

Dead Reckoning (Sookie Stackhouse 11)
-          Charlaine Harris

Publisher: UK – Gollancz

With her knack for being in trouble's way, Sookie witnesses the firebombing of Merlotte's, the bar where she works. Since Sam Merlotte is now known to be two-natured, suspicion falls immediately on the anti-shifters in the area. Sookie suspects otherwise, but her attention is divided when she realizes that her lover Eric Northman and his "child" Pam are plotting to kill the vampire who is now their master. Gradually, Sookie is drawn into the plot-which is much more complicated than she knows...

I know I’m about a year behind publication on the Sookie books but that’s mostly because I like to wait for the paperback to come out. Like many others I haven’t been overly impressed with recent books (All Together Dead was a series highlight for me that hasn’t been matched since) – there’s only so much enjoyment I get out of hearing the miniature of Sookie’s life – her money worries, her cleaning habits and sunbathing schedule. That said (or written!) there is still enough captivating about the characters that make me want to know what the latest happenings in Bon Temps are.

With that all in mind, I was pleasantly surprised with Dead Reckoning. Maybe I was just in the mood to read about Sookie shaving her legs or getting her haircut, but I was mildly entertained for the duration of the book. Sookie does seem to have changed since we first met her (only two years ago in her time, but over ten years for us!). She is more realistic about what the supernatural world is like, the violence and yes, the blood – but she does have a habit of bursting into tears a lot. I also wasn’t keen on Sookie randomly getting naked – I didn’t really see the point of that!

This isn’t a book that I would recommend people new to the series to start at – most of the plot lines are hold overs from previous books and only a few are resolved here.  There is a lot happening here – perhaps too much as individual stories can get lost, are tied up quickly or left unresolved. I guess I miss it when the Sookie books have definite beginning, middles and ends, but as the series has progressed the number of characters and plot elements have grown to unwieldy amounts.  On this occasion I felt the vampire, fae and home life stories meshed better with each one having something to say about who Sookie is now.

Overall, it was a pleasant enough read – I do love Eric and Pam so any book where they feature more is a plus for me…although I wasn’t so keen on the reappearance of Bill, or Alcide for that matter. I felt like both these characters have run out of steam a little. However, Sookie literally does need to fight men off sticks it seems…I wonder if I can find out her secret…

Recommended for fans of Patricia Briggs and Carrie Vaughn. 7 out of 10

Fair Game Review

Fair Game (Alpha and Omega 3)

-       Patricia Briggs

Publisher: UK – Orbit

They say opposites attract. And in the case of werewolves Anna Latham and Charles Cornick, they mate. The son-and enforcer-of the leader of the North American werewolves, Charles is a dominant alpha. While Anna, an omega, has the rare ability to calm others of her kind. Now that the werewolves have revealed themselves to humans, they can't afford any bad publicity. Infractions that could have been overlooked in the past must now be punished, and the strain of doing his father's dirty work is taking a toll on Charles.
Nevertheless, Charles and Anna are sent to Boston, when the FBI requests the pack's help on a local serial killer case. They quickly realize that not only the last two victims were werewolves-all of them were. Someone is targeting their kind. And now Anna and Charles have put themselves right in the killer's sights...

Reading a Patricia Briggs books is a little like going to your favourite restaurant and ordering your favourite pizza. You know what you’re going to get but at the same time it’s different on each occasion - the ambiance, the pizza sauce, where you sit in the restaurant, who you’re with can change the experience so much! Patricia Briggs writes Urban Fantasy with such deft confidence and assuredly, you never have to worry about anything but enjoying the ride!

This book follows Anna and Charles as they assist the FBI in a decade long serial killer case in Boston, while Charles struggles to deal with the demons that his role as his father’s enforcers brings and how that impacts his relationship with his wife. I just adore the relationship between Anna and Charles – they are true equals and partners in the truth. While their relationship is under strain, it is not love or trust that is in doubt. Overall, the relationship feels warm and very sweet – I would love to find a Charles of my very own!

The investigation of the serial killer is intriguing and does introduce a number of new characters to the world. I especially liked Leslie, the FBI agent on the case and would love to see her gain a story of her own at some point. While there are some intense fight scenes most of the action here are personality clashes and wolf dominance battles (mostly growling and eye contact) which helps develop the wolf world. I pretty much devoured the whole book and struggled to put it down enjoying the whole thing. Then at the end something happens which is a major game changer for this world which will have serious consequences for Anna and Charles as well as the Mercy Thompson series...things won’t be the same again!

Recommended for fans of Rachel Vincent and Carrie Vaughn. 9 out of 10

Shadow Heir Review

Shadow Heir (Dark Swan 4)

-         -  Richelle Mead

Publisher: UK – Bantam

**Warning contains spoilers from the first three books**

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...

As far as I know this is the fourth and final book in Eugenie’s story and a lot is packed into a short space! Not only does Eugenie have to cope with pregnancy and the disturbing prophecy that says her son will conquer the human world, there is a blight to deal with, her mixed feelings for fey King, Dorian and her ex-trying to kill her and her unborn children. Despite all this going, there doesn’t appear to much urgency for much of the book. As these events take place several months, the pace seems slower than previous instalments. There is a lot of introspective contemplation as Eugenie struggles to do what is right for her children, for her kingdoms and for the human world.

Eugenie is still a very proactive heroine, more than willing to tackle issues head on – whether that includes wielding gentry magic, kicking butt or speaking her mind. She feels much more comfortable in her role as queen now and her use of gentry magic is now effortless which is a big change from we started at book one. Her relationships with those around her have changed as well – especially with Dorian, her stepfather Roland and her sister, Jasmine. I also liked how becoming a mother changed her and even the little worries she had over regaining her previous physicality made her easy to relate too – always a worry with characters with such phenomenal powers.

I do have one issue with the story, which I can’t go into a lot of detail as it’s a big spoiler, but to me there is an element introduced at a late stage that seems very convenient – a get-out-of-jail-free card that spoilt some of the grey moral area that Mead had built up prior to that. Personally, I liked that there were no easy answers and this one introduction seemed to undermine some of that. However, it doesn’t  completely clear the deck as Eugenie is still left with a very big decision to make – the result of which has the possibility of dividing readers. However, I was happy with the ending although I could see plenty of opportunity to revisit Eugenie’s worlds in a few years’ time!

Recommended for fans of Jennifer Estep and Kim Harrison. 8 out of 10.

Grave Witch Review

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.



Iron Crowned Review

Iron Crowned (Dark Swan 3)

-       Richelle Mead

Publisher: UK – Bantam

Shaman-for-hire Eugenie Markham is the best at banishing entities trespassing in the mortal realm. But as the Thorn Land’s queen, she’s fast running out of ways to end the brutal war devastating her kingdom. Her only hope: the Iron Crown, a legendary object even the most powerful gentry fear…
Who Eugenie can trust is the hardest part. Fairy king Dorian has his own agenda for aiding her search. And Kiyo, her shape-shifter ex-boyfriend, has every reason to betray her along the way. To control the Crown’s ever-consuming powers, Eugenie will have to confront an unimaginable temptation--one that will put her soul and the fate of two worlds in mortal peril...

How to describe this book without giving anything away? It’s a bit like trying to describe a sculpture by phone...hopefully you’ll get the idea, but the best thing is really to go and see the sculpture yourself – or in this case read the book!

First thing to note, this is very much a continuation of the previous two books, Storm Born and Thorn Queen and so much that happens does depend on prior knowledge. Even Eugenie’s relationships with her two men it helps to know some of the past to put her thoughts and feeling into perspective.  And about her two men. I am very much in the Dorian camp – he is alpha male all the way and while he may not be the most honest of men – I think he is in his own way honourable. I am not a fan of Kiyo – he never seems be honest and I don’t think he trusts Eugenie.

The quest for the Iron Crown is over pretty quickly as the story returns to the story arc and the war. Eugenie is put through the emotional wringer here as her whole life comes under question. I loved how her relationship with her sister developed as she does seem to be lacking in female friends. Overall, though I felt like something was missing. I haven’t fully connected to Eugenie and she feels a little otherworldly – although being half fae that’s understandable! Still I enjoyed the ride which is a sexy adventure through the gentry world full of politics and fun.

Recommended for fans of Larissa Ione and Sherrilyn Kenyon. 7 out of 10.

Guest Review: Black Swan Rising

Today I have Sarah stopping by to review her second book from Transworld's Book Group - and a book I reviewed last month. If you're curious about my review check it out here and then compare against Sarah's thoughts! :-)

Black Swan Rising - Lee Carroll
Publisher: Bantam Books

When New York City jewelry designer Garet James stumbles into a strange antiques shop in her neighborhood, her life is about to be turned upside down. John Dee, the enigmatic shopkeeper, commissions her to open a vintage silver box for a generous sum of money. Oddly, the symbol of a swan on the box exactly matches the ring given to her by her deceased mother. Garet can’t believe her luck and this eerie coincidence until she opens the box and otherworldly things start happening. . .

So, my second Transworld review, and a book much more in keeping with mine and Mel's usual genre - Urban Fantasy.  Eagle-eyed viewers may remember that Mel has herself reviewed this book already (in early September) so this is kind of a long-distance dual review!  To remind you, Black Swan Rising stars Garet (I never worked out how you were supposed to pronounce her name - GAR-et, GA-ret, Gar-REET etc), a New York jeweller who discovers the supernatural side to the world she lives in, and her very significant part in it.

Like Mel, I loved the beginning of this book - the supernatural side to Manhattan is only slowly and tantalisingly revealed with a genuine sense of other-world-ness.  The creatures you meet may appear human, but human they are not, and whilst they may be on Garet's side, that does not mean they do not have their own agenda, or are not capable of frightening her (and us!).

Having only very recently been to New York I loved the set-pieces throughout the novel, and the historical tie-ins are both very clever and very engaging (what's not to love about a supposedly senial man saying he's been visited by a long-dead famous painter, only for that painter's particular blend of colours to end up on the man's hospital bed sheets?!). However, I am very much in agreement with Mel about the love-interest, Will Hughes.  How Garet had can trust him so implicity, so quickly, I do not know.  And when she almost loses her humanity to him no mention is ever made of it again, let alone repurcusions for Will who really should have known better!

That aside there is plenty of scope for further novels (especially if they feature Lol, my favourite character by a country mile), and like Mel I will definitely pick up the sequel at some point, 7 out of 10.

Black Swan Rising Review

Black Swan Rising

- Lee Carroll

Publisher: UK - Bantam

When New York City jewelry designer Garet James stumbles into a strange antiques shop in her neighborhood, her life is about to be turned upside down. John Dee, the enigmatic shopkeeper, commissions her to open a vintage silver box for a generous sum of money. Oddly, the symbol of a swan on the box exactly matches the ring given to her by her deceased mother. Garet can’t believe her luck and this eerie coincidence until she opens the box and otherworldly things start happening. . .

On the surface this book has many things to like about it - set in New York, Garet is a jewellery designer who's father runs an art gallery. Slowly, Garet becomes aware that things are not what they seem in Manhattan with Alchemist shops randomly appearing, and mysterious mists descending on the city driving people to despair. Only Garet can stop it as she discovers a hidden heritage that her mother was trying to shield her from. I don't want reveal spoilers as the creepy atmosphere at the start of the book was one of favourite elements. Firmly grounded in the real world at the start, this Urban Fantasy slowly introduces you to the differences between worlds while references to the recession and it's impact on luxury markets, like art & fashion makes Garet's reality as realistic as possible.

It is only as some of the more fantastical elements arrive that I noticed something didn't quite gel. For me the major part that didn't sit right was the love interest, Will Hughes. I never felt the attraction between him and Garet and I never understood why she trusted him so much so quickly considering his actions. This spoilt some of the story for me as the relationship is a big element in the plot and provides some conflict with other characters. This was a shame as so many of the other characters were great - I loved Garet's friends who were there for her and again grounded the action in the real world. Added to which the selection of people Garet meets in her quest were colourful and memorable - I loved Oberon, Lol and the others!

The writing was good and drew me in quickly creating a character out of New York with fog, buildings, Central Park and other elements all adding to the personality of the city. There is a a great mix of history as well as old world charm that makes the book feel quite timeless. I loved the references to famous historical characters which gave Black Swan Rising a real sense of history. However, I keep coming back to my lack of connection to Will Hughes and how much this interrupted the flow of the story for me. It's frustrating as otherwise I really would have loved this book! Overall, though this is a great introductory novel to a new series - and I am looking forward to reading the sequel, The Watchtower soon. Hopefully, I connect with Will more - or there's less of him in it! :-)

Recommended for fans of Charlaine Harris and Lauren Kate. 7 out of 10

Dead In The Family Review

Dead In The Family (Sookie Stackhouse 10)

-       Charlaine Harris

Publisher: UK – Gollancz

Stackhouse is dealing with a whole host of family problems, ranging from her own kin (a non-human fairy and a telepathic second cousin) demanding a place in her life, to her lover Eric's vampire sire, an ancient being, who arrives with Eric's 'brother' in tow at a most inopportune moment. And Sookie's tracking down a distant relation of her ailing neighbour (and ex), Vampire Bill Compton. In addition to the multitude of family issues complicating her life, the werewolf pack of Shreveport has asked Sookie for a special favour, and since Sookie is an obliging young woman, she agrees. But this favour for the wolves has dire results for Sookie, who is still recovering from the trauma of her abduction during the Fairy War.

I have to admit to feeling a little territorial over Sookie books as I discovered and loved them long before True Blood and part of me resents having to share these characters...okay, having to share Eric (I never liked Bill!). In this instalment Sookie is recovering from her torture by fairies in the previous book and it was nice that Charlaine doesn’t just gloss over Sookie’s ordeal but shows her struggling to return to a normal life. As ever, Sookie’s life isn’t easy but is complicated here by her relationship with Eric, the vampire head of section five, her distant fairy relatives and her friend of the pack status.

I really enjoyed spending time in Sookie’s company and I really liked how her relationship with her brother Jason grew here – he finally seems to be there for her and steps up as a reliable brother – for once! While the beginning of this book has lots of separate strands going so it feels a little discontinuous with Sookie dealing with vampire politics one minute, her cousin Hadley’s son the next and then dealing with weres before talking to fairies, but most of these strands wind together for a layered finale which solves most of the issues raised in this book. There are still plenty of ongoing issues though that aren’t moved on here – particularly with regards to the vampire politics.

The writing is easy to slip into and familiar if you’ve been following the series so far. Probably not the best book to start with if you’ve not visited Bon Temps so far though as there are a lot references to past events and characters that it assumes you some knowledge of. Like a comfortable pair of pyjamas, you know what to expect by now and Charlaine doesn’t disappoint even if it doesn’t quite hit the highs of All Together Dead.

Recommended for fans of Nicole Peeler and Jeaniene Frost. 7.5 out of 10.



On My Wishlist #24

**Shameless Plug - Don't forget to check out my Sabina Kane Giveaway for a chance to win one of the books in the series!**

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 having a feeling for the fae...

The Iron King (Iron Fey 1) - Julia Kagawa

Publisher: UK - MIRA books (January 2011)

Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school...or at home. When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change. But she could never have guessed the truth - that she is the daughter of a mythical fairy king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face...and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.

This series has just been released in the UK and I'm looking forward to catching up on it soon - there have been a lot of good reviews plus the Fae elements make it a nice change from the Vampire teenagers! :)

Spiral Hunt (Evie Scelan 1) - Magaret Ronald

Publisher: Eos (February 2009)

Some people have the Sight. Genevieve Scelan has the Scent. They call her "Hound," and with her unique supernatural sense Evie can track nearly anything—lost keys, vanished family heirlooms . . . even missing people. And though she knows to stay out of the magical undercurrent that runs beneath Boston's historic streets, a midnight phone call from a long-vanished lover will destroy the careful boundaries she has drawn. Now, to pay a years-old debt, Evie must venture into the shadowy world that lies between myth and reality, where she will find betrayal, conspiracies, and revelations that will shatter all she believes about herself and the city she claims as home. When the Hunt is on, the Hound must run . . .

This sounds right up my street - a special power and a threat to the world with the heroine struggling between two worlds. Can't wait!

Darkfever - Karen Marie Moning
Publisher: Bantam (September 2007)

MacKayla Lane’s life is good. She has great friends, a decent job, and a car that breaks down only every other week or so. In other words, she’s your perfectly ordinary twenty-first-century woman. Or so she thinks…until something extraordinary happens.
When her sister is murdered, leaving a single clue to her death–a cryptic message on Mac’s cell phone–Mac journeys to Ireland in search of answers. The quest to find her sister’s killer draws her into a shadowy realm where nothing is as it seems, where good and evil wear the same treacherously seductive mask. She is soon faced with an even greater challenge: staying alive long enough to learn how to handle a power she had no idea she possessed–a gift that allows her to see beyond the world of man, into the dangerous realm of the Fae….

After seeing a lot of people going crazy over the release of Shadowfever a couple of week I was wondering what all the fuss was about having never seen these books before. But a little research and fact that it's available on kindle, I think I'll give it a go soon.

That's what I'm wishing for - what do want this week? :)