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Review + Giveaway: Sealed with a Curse by Cecy Robson (ends 01/21)
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Please Note: New Holiday Review Policy! (extended indefinitely)

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Cover Art Survey

I found this survey through Literary Escapism, who found it through Tez Says.

Here are my demographics: 22 year old female living in Central Florida. Recent college graduate with a Bachelors of Business Administration with a concentration in marketing and a minor in finance (say that five times fast!) who is now rethinking the whole thing. Avid reader. Toying with the idea of possibly writing something, but who knows. Whether it's from the young adult, fantasy/sci-fi, horror, or romance section, the books I read must have a supernatural/paranormal thing going on.

1. What kind of covers do you like? Unusual colors tend to draw me in. Reds, blues, grayscales, and browns tend to be a bit overused, so when there's some bright purple or orange or a nice green, I'll be drawn to it for the uniqueness. Cover models are fine as long as they don't look slutty (for women) and have their shirts on (for men). I'm not into a lot of skin on my covers. Tattoos are case by case -- if the character has one that is important, it should be there; if it's there for design sake, ehh. I often find that when you see a cover models whole face, he or she never looks like how the main character is described (and how I see him or her in my head), so I like it more when a characters face is hidden/turned away/cut off/etc.

2. How much detail should be on them? "Maybe three things maximum on the front cover – character, setting and symbol. I’m happy to have a very detailed setting, but would prefer more anonymous character models." Tez answered this one perfectly. When there's too many elements, the covers start looking more like collages and less like art work.

3. Do you prefer characters or symbols, and why? Both. I like characters on covers, but the symbols help tell a story. If there's just a cover model and an abstract background, you don't really learn anything. If there's a cover model, some weapons, a creepy thing in the background, and an abstract background, it starts to tell a story before you even open the book.

4. What don’t you like on covers? I'm over scantily clad cover models. No one runs around fighting evil in stripper-wear or shirtless.

5. What would you prefer in digital artwork? Characters, or something to do with the story? I really like when there's a seamless combination of photography and digital artwork. My favorite use of digital artwork is when abstract swirls or patterns are used to blend different parts of the cover together or evoke a certain feel, like how orbs and swirls of light could help evoke the feel of magic.

6. Links to covers you do like, both digital and ‘normal’.
My favorite part of this cover is the abstract digital background. Without it, the cover would just be a model and some buildings in the background. I feel like the background draws the eye in and gives the cover a feel that really fits the book.





I like how we don't see the cover model's face, which allows us to envision the character however we'd like. My favorite parts of the cover are the green color and the overlay of the paisley-like patterns. It's a subtle addition that gives the cover a little character.




This is a perfect example of a cover not needing mantitty. I can see the guy running around fighting evil exact how he is. He won't waste an extra ten seconds pulling a shirt on over those crazy muscles. Plus, this cover has a shine that doesn't translate over the internet that gives it a very mysterious quality.




Another example of how not seeing part of the cover model's face actually works. Plus, the necklace is front and center, an object that is actually important to the story, and not random. Plus, the rest of the jacket is black with a gray paisley pattern overlayed that makes it feel a little more refined.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Friday Finds (3)

Friday finds was started by Misb at Should be Reading.

"The idea is to share, every Friday, about books that you’ve recently discovered (never heard of before) that sound really good!"

Title: Inked
Author: Karen Chance, Eileen Wilks, Yasmine Galenorn, Marjorie M. Liu
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
Release Date: 01/05/10
Summary:
Four of today's hottest urban fantasy writers together for the first time!

From today's most provocative authors come four tales of urban fantasy and paranormal romance exploring body art that is more than it seems-in a world of magic and mayhem that always leaves its mark.

This captivating tattoo theme surrounds each author's popular characters and worlds: Karen Chance's war mage Lia de Croissets, Marjorie M. Liu's demon-hunter Maxine Kiss, Yasmine Galenorn's Otherworld Intelligence Agency operative Camille D'Artigo, and Eileen Wilk's Lupi world.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Review: Tempest Rising by Nicole Peeler

Title: Tempest Rising
Author: Nicole Peeler
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 10/27/09
Summary:
Living in small town Rockabill, Maine, Jane True always knew she didn't quite fit in with so-called normal society. During her nightly, clandestine swim in the freezing winter ocean, a grisly find leads Jane to startling revelations about her heritage: she is only half-human.

Now, Jane must enter a world filled with supernatural creatures alternatively terrifying, beautiful, and deadly- all of which perfectly describe her new "friend," Ryu, a gorgeous and powerful vampire.

It is a world where nothing can be taken for granted: a dog can heal with a lick; spirits bag your groceries; and whatever you do, never-ever-rub the genie's lamp.


Plot: 4.5 Stars
This is one of those urban fantasy novels that has every supernatural creature you can think of, and some you've never even heard of. Most of the time I don't like when there's an overabundance, but it worked in this novel because Jane, being half-selkie, is a lesser used supernatural. The plot kept me guessing throughout the entire story, and overall the novel had a slightly dirty humor to it that I loved.

Pace: 4.5 Stars
The backstory involving Jane's past was spread out very nicely over the course of the novel. I liked that you didn't get all of the information right at once in the beginning. Although I think Jane accepted the supernatural a little too quickly and easily, it still felt believable.

Characters: 4.5 Stars
I loved all of the characters. Jane's inner virtue/libido were very amusing to read as she wrestled over things. I just wished some smaller characters, like Grizzie and Trill, could've had larger parts because they were very interesting. I hope to see more of them in the next book.

Cover: 5 Stars
I love this cover! The artwork is amazing. I want to find the artist and see more of their work. And it was refreshing to see an urban fantasy cover without the typical cover model looking like they could kick your butt.

Overall: 4.5 Stars

Disclosure: I bought this book for my own enjoyment.

Waiting on Wednesday (5)

This book blog meme is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

Title: Magic in the Shadows
Author: Devon Monk
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 11/03/09
Summary:
Allison Beckstrom's magic has taken its toll on her, physically marking her and erasing her memories-including those of the man she supposedly loves. But lost memories aren't the only things preying on Allie's thoughts.

Her late father, the prominent businessman-and sorcerer-Daniel Beckstrom, has somehow channeled himself into her very mind. With the help of The Authority, a secret organization of magic users, she hopes to gain better control over her own abilities-and find a way to deal with her father...

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Teaser Tuesday (5)

This weekly book blog meme is hosted by Misb at Should be Reading.

Here are the rules:
- Grab your current read
- Open to a random page
- Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
- BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (Make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away. You don’t want to ruin the book for others.)
- Share the title & author too, so that other Teaser Tuesday participants can add the book to their TBR lists if they like your teasers.

Title: Tempest Rising
Author: Nicole Peeler
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 10/27/09

Take that, hormones! I though, exultantly. Imagining Ryu pursuing terrified women through dark city streets was better than a cold shower. -- pg. 105

Sunday, October 25, 2009

In My Mailbox (6)

Thanks to Kristi at The Story Siren for hosting In My Mailbox every week.

Books bought:

Title: Skin Game
Author: Ava Gray (aka Ann Aguirre)
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Release Date: 11/03/09
Summary:
Kyra's a con woman and a thief who can steal her target's strongest skill. But when she becomes the target of a hit man, she won't be able to hide from the passion that engulfs them.


Title: Tainted
Author: Julie Kenner
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 10/27/09
Summary:
Lily Carlyle has lied, cheated, and stolen her way through life.

But in death, she'll really get to be bad...


When her little sister is brutalized, a vengeful Lily determines to exact her own justice. She succeeds at the cost of her own life, but as she lies dying, she is given a second chance. Lily can earn her way into Paradise by becoming an assassin for the forces of good.

It's the job Lily believes she can really get into-but she doesn't realize that she may not be able to get out.


Title: Once a Witch
Author: Carolyn Maccollugh
Genre: Young Adult
Release date: 09/15/09
Summary:
Tamsin Greene comes from a long line of witches, and she was supposed to be one of the most Talented among them. But Tamsin's magic never showed up. Now seventeen, Tamsin attends boarding school in Manhattan, far from her family. But when a handsome young professor mistakes her for her very Talented sister, Tamsin agrees to find a lost family heirloom for him. The search—and the stranger—will prove to be more sinister than they first appeared, ultimately sending Tamsin on a treasure hunt through time that will unlock the secret of her true identity, unearth the sins of her family, and unleash a power so vengeful that it could destroy them all. This is a spellbinding display of storytelling that will exhilarate, enthrall, and thoroughly enchant.


Title: Tempest Rising
Author: Nicole Peeler
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 10/27/09
Summary:
Living in small town Rockabill, Maine, Jane True always knew she didn't quite fit in with so-called normal society. During her nightly, clandestine swim in the freezing winter ocean, a grisly find leads Jane to startling revelations about her heritage: she is only half-human.

Now, Jane must enter a world filled with supernatural creatures alternatively terrifying, beautiful, and deadly- all of which perfectly describe her new "friend," Ryu, a gorgeous and powerful vampire.

It is a world where nothing can be taken for granted: a dog can heal with a lick; spirits bag your groceries; and whatever you do, never-ever-rub the genie's lamp.


Saturday, October 24, 2009

Saturday Series Spotlight (2)

Today I'll be featuring Carrie Vaughn's Kitty Norville series. I'll admit that it took me a while to actually read this series, even though I knew it had good reviews, because the cover of the first book was less than appealing. The primary blue and red just clashed for me. And the title seemed to campy. But I am sooo glad I said "Screw it!" and bought it eventually because this series is amazing. And each book just keeps getting better (the covers too, IMO).

Reading Order:
Kitty and the Midnight Hour
Kitty Goes to Washington
Kitty Takes a Holiday
Kitty and the Silver Bullet
Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand
Kitty Raises Hell
Kitty's House of Horrors
(January 1, 2010)









Here's a summary of the first book in the series, Kitty and the Midnight Hour:
Kitty Norville is a midnight-shift DJ for a Denver radio station-and a werewolf in the closet. Her new late-night advice show for the supernaturally disadvantaged is a raging success, but it's Kitty who can use some help. With one sexy werewolf-hunter and a few homicidal undead on her tail, Kitty may have bitten off more than she can chew?


Feel free to leave a comment about the series if you love it, any questions if you're interested in the series, or a link to your own series spotlight if you'd like to participate.

Friday Finds (2)

Friday finds was started by Misb at Should be Reading.

"The idea is to share, every Friday, about books that you’ve recently discovered (never heard of before) that sound really good!"

Title: And Falling, Fly
Author: Skyler White
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: 03/02/10
Summary:
In a dark and seedy underground of burned-out rock stars and angels- turned-vampires, a revolutionary neuroscientist and a fallen angel must pit medicine against mythology in an attempt to erase their tortured pasts...but at what cost?

Olivia, vampire and fallen angel of desire, is hopeless...and damned. Since the fall from Eden, she has hungered for love, but fed only on desire. Dominic O'Shaughnessy is a neuroscientist plagued by impossible visions. When his research and her despair collide at L'OtelMathillide- a subterranean hell of beauty, demons, and dreams-rationalist and angel unite in a clash of desire and damnation that threatens to destroy them both.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Review: Shadowfae by Erica Hayes

Title: Shadowfae
Author: Erica Hayes
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Published: 10/13/09
Summary:
Imagine a secret world veiled in fairy glamour and brimming with unearthly delights. A city swarming with half-mad fairies, where thieving spriggans rob you blind, beautiful banshees mesmerize you with their song, and big green trolls bust heads at nightclubs. And once you’re in, there’s no escape…

Enslaved by a demon lord, Jade is forced to spend her nights seducing vampire gangsters and shapeshifting thugs. After two hundred years as a succubus, she burns for freedom and longs to escape her brutal life as a trophy girl for hell’s minions. Then she meets Rajah, an incubus who touches her heart and intoxicates her senses. Rajah shares the same bleak fate as she, and yearns just as desperately for freedom. But the only way for Jade to break her bonds is to betray Rajah—and doom the only man she’s ever loved to a lifetime in hell.


Plot: 3.5 Stars
I really liked the plot, although I felt it sometimes got drowned in all of the sex. If Jade wasn't having sex, she was almost having sex. And if she wasn't almost having sex, she was thinking about sex and her body was reacting to the possibility or thought of sex. Now, I don't dislike a good sex scene or two, but I don't need it around every corner. I think the only reason it didn't actually bother me was how tastefully it was all written. And once you get past all of the sex, the plot is actually a very creative puzzle that Jade needs to solve.

Pace: 3.5 Stars
Almost all of the action was in the last couple chapters. Except for a few scenes here and there, the first two-thirds of the book was mostly just sex, sex, almost sex, sex. Right when I would go to put the book down and take a break, the plot would come back around drag me back in.

Characters: 4 Stars
I really liked the faeries that the author brought to life. There was a lack of Celtic or Irish mythology of faeries that I found refreshing. They were brightly colored and a little wacky. Jade and Rajahni were very easy to understand and root for. And the villians were very easy to root against, as charming as some of them may have seemed.

Cover: 3.5 Stars
I loved the red, metallic design swirled around the title. It really stood out and grabbed my attention. But the title itself was a weird, slightly pale yellow that didn't quite blend with the rest of the cover. The cover model really gave you a succubus feel with the way she's dressed, but her face was cut off.

Overall: 3.5 Stars

Disclosure: I bought this book for my own enjoyment.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Waiting on Wednesday (4)

This book blog meme is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

I'm doing a double Waiting on Wednesday this week because both books are being released on the same day next month.

Title: The Better Part of Darkness
Author: Kelly Gay
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 11/24/09
Summary:
Atlanta: it's the promised city for the off-worlders, foreigners from the alternate dimensions of heaven-like Elysia and hell-like Charbydon. Some bring good works and miracles. And some bring unimaginable evil...

Charlie Madigan is a divorced mother of one, and a kick-ass cop trained to take down the toughest human and off-world criminals. She's recently returned from the dead after a brutal attack, an unexplained revival that has left her plagued by ruthless nightmares and random outbursts of strength that make doing her job for Atlanta P.D.'s Integration Task Force even harder. Since the Revelation, the criminal element in Underground Atlanta has grown, leaving Charlie and her partner Hank to keep the chaos to a dull roar. But now an insidious new danger is descending on her city with terrifying speed, threatening innocent lives: a deadly, off-world narcotic known as ash. Charlie is determined to uncover the source of ash before it targets another victim -- but can she protect those she loves from a force more powerful than heaven and hell combined?


Title: Three Days to Dead
Author: Kelly Meding
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 11/24/09
Summary:
They’ll never see her coming...

When Evangeline Stone wakes up naked and bruised on a cold slab at the morgue—in a stranger’s body, with no memory of who she is and how she got there—her troubles are only just beginning. Before that night she and the two other members of her Triad were the city’s star bounty hunters, mercilessly cleansing the city of the murderous creatures living in the shadows, from vampires to shape-shifters to trolls. Then something terrible happened that not only cost all three of them their lives but also convinced the city’s other Hunters that Evy was a traitor—and she can’t even remember what it was.

Now she’s a fugitive, piecing together her memory, trying to deal some serious justice—and discovering that she has only three days to solve her own murder before the reincarnation spell wears off. Because in three days Evy will die again—but this time there’s no second chance...

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

My First Giveaway

I received a copy of Blue Diablo from the lovely Ann Aguirre in April for becoming her 300th follower on Twitter and enjoyed every minute of it. So when I saw an autographed copy on sale at the Borders down the street, I decided to pick it up and host my first giveaway.

Corine Solomon is a handler—when she touches an object she instantly knows its history and its future. Using her ability, she can find the missing—which is why people never stop trying to find her. Like her ex-boyfriend Chance, who needs Corine’s gift to find someone dear to them both. But the search proves dangerous as it leads them into a strange world of demons and sorcerers, ghosts and witchcraft, zombies—and black magic...


Ok, now for the contest rules:

Answer the following question: If you could have any psychic power, what would it be?

You must leave a vaild e-mail address.
This contest is open to the US and Canada only.

Here are ways to accumulate bonus entries:
+1 Being a follower
+1 Tweeting about the contest @ sara_UFblog (please leave your Twitter id in comment)
+3 Post about the contest on your blog (leave link in comment)

Please, only one comment per person. (Edit: Two comments max, in case you forget something. Basically, don't post a different comment for each entry. Thanks.)

** This giveaway will end at midnight EST on Monday 11/02 and the winner will be announced Tuesday 11/03 (probably in the afternoon, once I get home from work). Winners will be chosen using Random.org.

Teaser Tuesday (4)

This weekly book blog meme is hosted by Misb at Should be Reading.

Here are the rules:
- Grab your current read
- Open to a random page
- Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
- BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (Make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away. You don’t want to ruin the book for others.)
- Share the title & author too, so that other Teaser Tuesday participants can add the book to their TBR lists if they like your teasers.

Title: Boneshaker
Author: Cherie Priest
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 09/29/09

The rifle made her feel safer. She squeezed it hard and silently thanked her late father for his taste in firearms. -- pg. 134

Review: Demon Princess: Reign or Shine by Michelle Rowen


Title: Demon Princess: Reign or Shine
Author: Michelle Rowen
Genre: Young Adult
Published: 09/29/09
Summary:
For Nikki Donovan, being a teenager can be hell. Literally.

As if trying to fit in at a new school isn't stressful enough, sixteen-year-old Nikki Donovan just found out that her long-lost father is, in fact, the demon king of the Shadowlands—the world that separates and protects us from the Underworld. When she is brought there by the mysterious—and surprisingly cute—messenger Michael, she learns that her father is dying, and he wants her to assume the throne. To complicate matters, a war is brewing between the Shadowlands and the Underworld, her half-demon qualities are manifesting, and her growing feelings for Michael are completely forbidden. Ruling a kingdom, navigating a secret crush, and still making it home by curfew—what's a teenage demon princess to do?


Plot: 4 Stars
Demon Princess had a very fresh take on demons. I liked that they weren't necessarily bad or evil like most books. The world-building was also top notch, and I hope we'll get to see more of it, like the faery realm, in the next book. Rowen also did a very good job weaving the supernatural adventure into Nikki's every day life that included school and dances.

Pace: 3.5 Stars
The story took a tad bit too long to get to the action at the end. There was a little too much build up to the end conflict and resolution. I felt like it took the main character just a bit too long to figure everything out. But other than that, the story flowed really well and kept me engaged the entire time.

Characters: 4 Stars
I felt that the author really captured the essence of the every day teenager without all of the angst you find all too often in young adult books. All of the characters, no matter how big or small their parts, were well-rounded, multi-dimensional characters. No one seemed flat. Even Nikki's best friend was not the shallow, popular girl she seemed.

Cover: 3 Stars
I'm not the biggest fan of covers that cut off the cover model's face. I feel like the crown could've been smaller so that the model's whole face could be included. The font and choices fit the story well.

Overall: 3.5 Stars

Disclosure: I bought this book for my own enjoyment.

Monday, October 19, 2009

In My Mailbox (5)

Thanks to Kristi at The Story Siren for hosting In My Mailbox every week.

I also ordered Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick, but accidentally ordered the UK version (hey, it was cheaper) which doesn't release until 11/01/09. But the awesome part is that I received an e-mail today saying it should be shipping sooner.

Books bought:

Title: The Van Alen Legacy
Author: Melissa de la Cruz
Genre: Young Adult
Release Date: 10/06/09
Summary:
With the stunning revelation surrounding Bliss's true identity comes the growing threat of the sinister Silver Bloods. Once left to live the glamorous life in New York City, the Blue Bloods now find themselves in an epic battle for survival. Not to worry, love is still in the air for the young vampires of the Upper East Side. Or is it? Jack and Schuyler are over. Oliver's brokenhearted. And only the cunning Mimi seems to be happily engaged.


Title: Hunting Memories
Author: Barb Hendee
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 10/06/09
Summary:
Eleisha Clevon has begun a correspondence with fellow vampire Rose de Spenser. Both reluctant predators, they venture outside only when the hunger becomes unbearable, trying not to draw attention to themselves-and feel guilty when ending human lives.

But Eleisha has learned a way to draw blood from her victims without killing them. She wants to share this knowledge with like-minded vampires and create a haven where they can exist together-and forge a united front against Julian Ashton, a vampire who has been hunting down and destroying his own kind...


Title: Wondrous Strange
Author: Lesley Livingston
Genre: Young Adult
Release date: 09/22/09 (paperback)
Summary:
Since the dawn of time, the Faerie have taken. . . .

For seventeen-year-old actress Kelley Winslow, faeries are just something from childhood stories. Then she meets Sonny Flannery, whose steel-gray eyes mask an equally steely determination to protect her.

Sonny guards the Samhain Gate, which connects the mortal realm with the Faerie's enchanted, dangerous Otherworld. Usually kept shut by order of icy King Auberon, the Gate stands open but once a year.

This year, as the time approaches when the Samhain Gate will swing wide and nightmarish Fae will fight their way into an unsuspecting human world, something different is happening . . . something wondrous and strange. And Kelley's eyes are opening not just to the Faerie that surround her but to the heritage that awaits her.

Now Kelley must navigate deadly Faerie treachery—and her growing feelings for Sonny—in this dazzling page-turner filled with luminous romance.


Title: Friday Night Bites
Author: Chloe Neill
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 10/06/09
Summary:
The story of a young heiress's initiation into the dark society of the Chicagoland Vampires continues...

Ten months after vampires revealed their existence to the mortals of Chicago, they're enjoying a celebrity status usually reserved for the Hollywood elite. But should people learn about the Raves-mass feeding parties where vampires round up humans like cattle-the citizens will start sharpening their stakes.

So now it's up to the new vampire Merit to reconnect with her upper class family and act as liaison between humans and bloodsuckers, and keep the more unsavory aspects of the vampire lifestyle out of the media. But someone doesn't want peace between them-someone with an ancient grudge...


Title: Leviathan
Author: Scott Westerfeld
Genre: Young Adult
Release date: 10/06/09
Summary:
It is the cusp of World War I, and all the European powers are arming up. The Austro-Hungarians and Germans have their Clankers, steam-driven iron machines loaded with guns and ammunition. The British Darwinists employ fabricated animals as their weaponry. Their Leviathan is a whale airship, and the most masterful beast in the British fleet.
Aleksandar Ferdinand, prince of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, is on the run. His own people have turned on him. His title is worthless. All he has is a battle-torn Stormwalker and a loyal crew of men.

Deryn Sharp is a commoner, a girl disguised as a boy in the British Air Service. She's a brilliant airman. But her secret is in constant danger of being discovered.

With the Great War brewing, Alek's and Deryn's paths cross in the most unexpected way...taking them both aboard the Leviathan on a fantastical, around-the-world adventure. One that will change both their lives forever.


Books won:

Title: Demon Forged
Author: Meljean Brook
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Release date: 10/06/09
Summary:
Four centuries ago, Guardians Irena and Alejandro would have succumbed to the need burning between them-if a demon and a monstrous bargain hadn't shattered the possibility of love. Torn apart by her shame, Irena avoided Alejandro for centuries-until a vampire's call for help threw her into his arms again.

Alejandro can control fire, but he's never been able to control-or quench-the flames between him and Irena. And he knows that Irena, hardened by her hatred for demonkind, will never accept that he now works at a demon's behest. But even as he fights for a second chance, a shocking betrayal and a dealy prophecy shake the foundations of the Guardian universe, and all Hell threatens to break loose...


**Thanks to Meljean Brook via Borders TrueRomance blog for the signed copy.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Waiting on Wednesday (3)

This book blog meme is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

Title: Tempest Rising
Author: Nicole Peeler
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 10/27/09 or 11/01/09 (I'm finding conflicting dates)
Summary:
Living in small town Rockabill, Maine, Jane True always knew she didn't quite fit in with so-called normal society. During her nightly, clandestine swim in the freezing winter ocean, a grisly find leads Jane to startling revelations about her heritage: she is only half-human.

Now, Jane must enter a world filled with supernatural creatures alternatively terrifying, beautiful, and deadly- all of which perfectly describe her new "friend," Ryu, a gorgeous and powerful vampire.

It is a world where nothing can be taken for granted: a dog can heal with a lick; spirits bag your groceries; and whatever you do, never-ever-rub the genie's lamp.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Review: Rosemary and Rue by Seanan McGuire

Title: Rosemary and Rue
Author: Seanan McGuire
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Published: 09/01/09
Summary:
October "Toby" Daye, a changeling who is half human and half fae, has been an outsider from birth. After getting burned by both sides of her heritage, Toby has denied the Faerie world, retreating to a "normal" life. Unfortunately for her, the Faerie world has other ideas...

The murder of Countess Evening Winterrose pulls Toby back into the fae world. Unable to resist Evening's dying curse, which binds her to investigate, Toby must resume her former position as knight errant and renew old alliances. As she steps back into fae society, dealing with a cast of characters not entirely good or evil, she realizes that more than her own life will be forfeited if she cannot find Evening's killer.


Plot:
The plot had a lot of promise, but was really bogged down by the details. I read 199 pages (15 chapters), and maybe 75 pages worth of action had happened. The rest was just unneeded details and dialogue. I also found that for all of Toby's talk about wanting to be strong or take action, she never really did anything. While I would have liked to know what happened to Evening, I just couldn't force myself to keep going.

Pace:
The pace was too slow, mostly because the reader is bogged down in details. Plus, for all the places Toby ventured to in 199 pages trying to figure out why Evening was killed, some of it didn't feel relevant. Maybe it comes around full circle in the end, but it just seemed like useless wandering.

Characters:
The thing that really bothered me was that for all the details and dialogue, I didn't really learn much about anyone but Toby. I would have liked to have a little more information about some of the characters Toby came in contact with because it seemed like they were important, but I couldn't always figure out why.

Cover:
I actually loved the cover of this books. The bright orange text is a real eye catcher. Even if I hadn't already known I wanted to buy this book, I would've been intrigued had I seen the neon orange title while browsing. I also liked how subtle the cover model's pointed ears were. I didn't realize there was any point to them for a couple days.

Overall: DNF

Disclosure: I bought this book for my own enjoyment.

Teaser Tuesday (3)

This weekly book blog meme is hosted by Misb at Should be Reading.

Here are the rules:
- Grab your current read
- Open to a random page
- Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
- BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (Make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away. You don’t want to ruin the book for others.)
- Share the title & author too, so that other Teaser Tuesday participants can add the book to their TBR lists if they like your teasers.

Title: Shadowfae
Author: Erica Hayes
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 10/13/09

Unseelie Court attracts the finest and freakiest Melbourne has to offer, and the line was a flashbulb forest of Lycra-bursting breats, tanned female legs in fishnets, buffed boy muscles in rainbow colors, and the glitter, glass, and glamour of gorgeous fae. The hottest action, the coolest drugs, the most expensive drinks in town -- the Court had it all. -- pg. 82

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Quick Update

I know I'm a little behind in posting. I had a bit of family drama this weekend, so I haven't really been online or had time to read. I didn't really have anything to post for Friday Finds, but I did want to post a Saturday Series Spotlight (I'm gonna wait until next weekend though because it's gonna be a busy week for me). I also have two reviews that I will be posting ASAP. Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm still here.

On a side note, I'm thinking about putting together a little contest. The Borders down the street from my house (that I practically live at) has a couple of books that have signed copies from authors stopping by (we actually had Melissa Marr, Rachel Vincent, Jeaniene Frost, Jennifer Lynn Barnes, and Mark Del Franco do a panel/signing in April). Anyway, I figured I'd give my followers a chance to vote on which book I should buy. The four signed choices are:

Unfallen Dead by Mark Del Franco (Connor Grey, Book 3)
Pride by Rachel Vincent (Werecats, Book 3)
Grimspace by Ann Aguirre (Sirantha Jax, Book 1)
Wanderlust by Ann Aguirre (Sirantha Jax, Book 2)

White Night by Jim Butcher (Dresden Files, Book 9) -- this one isn't signed, but it's a hardcover on clearance since the paperback recently came out.

I have read book one of Mark Del Franco's series, and books one and two of Rachel Vincent's series. I have not read this Ann Aguirre series, although I've read Blue Diablo. And I haven't read any Jim Butcher. If none of these really sound appealing, feel free to let me know. I just figured the autographed copies would be cooler than just a random book.

In My Mailbox (4)

Thanks to Kristi at The Story Siren for hosting In My Mailbox every week.

I ordered a bunch of books online, but they haven't been delivered yet.

But I bought the following:

Title: Child of Fire
Author: Harry Connolly
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: 09/29/09
Summary:
Ray Lilly is living on borrowed time. He’s the driver for Annalise Powliss, a high-ranking member of the Twenty Palace Society, a group of sorcerers devoted to hunting down and executing rogue magicians. But because Ray betrayed her once, Annalise is looking for an excuse to kill him–or let someone else do the job.

Unfortunately for both of them, Annalise’s next mission goes wrong, leaving her critically injured. With the little magic he controls, Ray must complete her assignment alone. Not only does he have to stop a sorcerer who’s sacrificing dozens of innocent lives in exchange for supernatural power, he must find–and destroy–the source of that inhuman magic.


Title: Shadowfae
Author: Erica Hayes
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 10/13/09
Summary:
Imagine a secret world veiled in fairy glamour and brimming with unearthly delights. A city swarming with half-mad fairies, where thieving spriggans rob you blind, beautiful banshees mesmerize you with their song, and big green trolls bust heads at nightclubs. And once you’re in, there’s no escape…

Enslaved by a demon lord, Jade is forced to spend her nights seducing vampire gangsters and shapeshifting thugs. After two hundred years as a succubus, she burns for freedom and longs to escape her brutal life as a trophy girl for hell’s minions. Then she meets Rajah, an incubus who touches her heart and intoxicates her senses. Rajah shares the same bleak fate as she, and yearns just as desperately for freedom. But the only way for Jade to break her bonds is to betray Rajah—and doom the only man she’s ever loved to a lifetime in hell.


Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Waiting on Wednesday (2)

This book blog meme is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine .

Title: Shadowfae
Author: Erica Hayes
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release date: 10/13/09
Summary:
Imagine a secret world veiled in fairy glamour and brimming with unearthly delights. A city swarming with half-mad fairies, where thieving spriggans rob you blind, beautiful banshees mesmerize you with their song, and big green trolls bust heads at nightclubs. And once you’re in, there’s no escape…

Enslaved by a demon lord, Jade is forced to spend her nights seducing vampire gangsters and shapeshifting thugs. After two hundred years as a succubus, she burns for freedom and longs to escape her brutal life as a trophy girl for hell’s minions. Then she meets Rajah, an incubus who touches her heart and intoxicates her senses. Rajah shares the same bleak fate as she, and yearns just as desperately for freedom. But the only way for Jade to break her bonds is to betray Rajah—and doom the only man she’s ever loved to a lifetime in hell.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

First Award

Jenn from Books at Midnight gave me my first award. Thank you so much.

This is the Splash Award it is given to alluring, amusing, bewitching, impressive, and inspiring blogs.

1. Tynga's Urban Fantasy Reviews -- A relatively new blog that I've been following with very informative reviews and some fun contests.

I'm only nominating one blog today because this is the blog that inspired me to start my own. I found Tynga's blog around the time of her first contest, and have been following ever since. Most blogs I follow were well established when I found them, so it was nice to watch Tynga's blog grow. It showed me that I could break in to this crazy blogging world.

Rules:

- Put the logo on your blog/post
- Nominate & link up to 9 blogs that you pick for this award
- Let them know that they have been splashed.
- Remember to link the person that nomiated and awarded you.

Teaser Tuesday (2)

This weekly book blog meme is hosted by Misb at Should be Reading.

Here are the rules:
- Grab your current read
- Open to a random page
- Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
- BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (Make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away. You don’t want to ruin the book for others.)
- Share the title & author too, so that other Teaser Tuesday participants can add the book to their TBR lists if they like your teasers.

Title: Demon Princess: Reign or Shine
Author: Michelle Rowen
Genre: Young Adult
Release date: 09/29/09

"You're not going to tell me that you're my half brother, are you? Because that would be gross." -- pg. 54

Monday, October 5, 2009

Review: Red-Headed Stepchild by Jaye Wells

Title: Red-Headed Stepchild
Author: Jaye Wells
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Published: 04/01/09
Summary:
In a world where being of mixed-blood is a major liability, Sabina Kane has the only profession fit for an outcast: assassin. But, her latest mission threatens the fragile peace between the vampire and mage races and Sabina must scramble to figure out which side she's on. She's never brought her work home with her—-until now.

This time, it's personal.


Plot: 3.5 Stars
I really liked the idea of a half-vampire, half-mage character, with the vampire and mage communities being enemies. I wish more of the vampire-mage history had been explained. The twists and turns, lots of fighting, a tiny glimmer of romance, and even some humor. But it just felt like there was something missing.

Pace: 3.5 Stars
The beginning was fast paced and reeled me in quick, but by around chapter fifteen, the pace definitely slowed down. Although I never lost interest in the plot or the characters, the slower pace made it a bit hard for me to get through some parts. Luckily it picked up again near the end.

Characters: 4 Stars
While Sabina was a strong female character and often bested the men that saw her as weak, I didn't like how she did whatever her grandmother wanted. It took a little longer than I would've liked for her to realize that her grandmother wasn't the perfect leader she appeared to be. My favorite character was Giguhl, the demon that hung around for a while. He brought a lot of humor with his late night infommercial shopping.

Cover: 3.5 Stars
I love the font choice for the title and the brightness of the cover model's hair. But the rest really fell flat for me. But other than that, the cover is a little too dark and monotone.

Overall: 3.5 Stars

The next book in the series, The Mage in Black, is set to release 04/01/10.


Disclosure: I bought this book for my own enjoyment.

Monday Madness (2)

I don't know who hosts this blogging event, but I found out about it from Fantastic Book Review.

So here are all of the Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance novels that are being released tomorrow

The Van Alen Legacy by Melissa de la Cruz
Hunting Memories by Barb Hendee
Friday Night Bites by Chloe Neill
Seduced by Shadows by Jessa Slade
Lucinda, Dangerously by Sunny
Shadowlight by Lynn Viehl
Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

Cover Art: Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead

Richelle just posted the cover art for her next Vampire Academy novel, Spirit Bound on her blog.



I personally love the new cover. I just wish they'd been able to use the same cover models throughout the series because I have no idea who this is supposed to depict. But I understand that you can't expect a model to stick around for years.

Anyway, feel free to comment. Just keep the spoilers to a minimum because I haven't read Blood Promise yet.

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Review: Immortal by Gillian Shields

Title: Immortal
Author: Gillian Shields
Genre: Young Adult
Published: 08/04/09
Summary:
Wyldcliffe Abbey School for Young Ladies, housed in a Gothic mansion on the bleak northern moors, is elite, expensive, and unwelcoming. When Evie Johnson is torn away from her home by the sea to become the newest scholarship student, she is more isolated than she could have dreamed. Strict teachers, snobbish students, and the oppressive atmosphere of Wyldcliffe leave Evie drowning in loneliness.

Evie's only lifeline is Sebastian, a rebellious, mocking, dangerously attractive young man she meets by chance. As Evie's feelings for Sebastian grow with each secret meeting, she starts to fear that he is hiding something about his past. And she is haunted by glimpses of a strange, ghostly girl—a girl who is so eerily like Evie, she could be a sister. Evie is slowly drawn into a tangled web of past and present that she cannot control. And as the extraordinary, elemental forces of Wyldcliffe rise up like the mighty sea, Evie is faced with an astounding truth about Sebastian, and her own incredible fate.

Gillian Shields's electrifying tale will dazzle readers with suspense, mysticism, and romance.


Plot: 4.5 Stars
My favorite part of this book was how seamlessly it jumped between the present and the journal entries detailing the past. The journal entries gave the backstory needed to completely understand Sebastian without bogging the reader down with large amounts of dialogue. I also tend to like books that focus on the paranormal in a boarding school setting, and I felt the Wyldcliffe Abbey School was mysterious and creepy in all the right ways. This novel was definitely a fresh take on immortality and it's consequences.

Pace: 4 Stars
The beginning of the novel was a little slow for my tastes. There was a moment when I almost put it down, but it finally snagged me and picked up speed. There were many twists and turns that I wasn't expecting, and although the ending was quick, it didn't feel rushed.

Characters: 3.5 Stars
Besides Evie and Sebastian, I felt the rest of the characters came up a little short. They weren't really in the spotlight all that much, but I like it when lesser characters have a little more depth. I couldn't even bring myself to hate the mean girls the way I should've because they were kinda flat. While this detracted from some scenes, it didn't affect much of the overall plot because so much of it focused only on Evie and Sebastian.

Cover: 4 Stars
I love the color blue and I love really simple covers. And I also like that it wasn't a portrait of a teenage girl, like so many YA covers depict. The mystery of the deep blues and the necklace drew me in and made me want to read the book.

Overall: 4 Stars

Disclosure: I bought this book for my own enjoyment.

In My Mailbox (3)

Thanks to Kristi at The Story Siren for hosting In My Mailbox every week.

From the library:

Title: The Forest of Hands and Teeth
Author: Carrie Ryan
Genre: Young Adult
Summary:
In Mary's world, there are simple truths.

The Sisterhood always knows best.

The Guardians will protect and serve.

The Unconsecrated will never relent.

And you must always mind the fence that surrounds the village. The fence that protects the village from the Forest of Hands and Teeth.

But slowly, Mary's truths are failing her. She's learning things she never wanted to know about the Sisterhood and its secrets, and the Guardians and their power. And, when the fence is breached and her world is thrown into chaos, about the Unconsecrated and their relentlessness.

Now she must choose between her village and her future, between the one she loves and the one who loves her. And she must face the truth about the Forest of Hands and Teeth. Could there be life outside a world surrounded by so much death


Bought:

Title: Dawnbreaker
Author: Jocelynn Drake
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Summary:
The dawn brings new terror for the creatures of the night . . .

Those of her race fear Mira for the lethal fire she bends to her will—a power unique among nightwalkers, both a gift . . . and a curse.

The naturi despise Mira for what she is—as they prepare the final sacrifice that will destroy the barriers between the worlds. And once the naturi are unchained, blood, chaos, and horror will reign supreme on Earth.

Mira can trust only Danaus, the more-than-mortal vampire slayer, though he is sworn to destroy her kind. And now, as the day approaches when titanic forces will duel under cover of darkness, destiny draws them toward an apocalyptic confrontation at Machu Picchu. But all is not lost, for a wild card has been dealt to them: a rogue enemy princess who can change the balance of power and turn the dread tide.


Title: The Tear Collector
Author: Patrick Jones
Genre: Young Adult
Summary:
Fans of urban fantasy should prepare for a new kind of vampire–one that feeds off of tears instead of blood. Descended from an ancient line of creatures that gain their energy from human tears, Cassandra Gray depends on human sorrow to live. Only Cass has grown tired of living this life and wants to live like a human, especially now that she's met someone worth fighting for.


Title: Boneshaker
Author: Cherie Priest
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Summary:
In the early days of the Civil War, rumors of gold in the frozen Klondike brought hordes of newcomers to the Pacific Northwest. Anxious to compete, Russian prospectors commissioned inventor Leviticus Blue to create a great machine that could mine through Alaska’s ice. Thus was Dr. Blue’s Incredible Bone-Shaking Drill Engine born.

But on its first test run the Boneshaker went terribly awry, destroying several blocks of downtown Seattle and unearthing a subterranean vein of blight gas that turned anyone who breathed it into the living dead.

Now it is sixteen years later, and a wall has been built to enclose the devastated and toxic city. Just beyond it lives Blue’s widow, Briar Wilkes. Life is hard with a ruined reputation and a teenaged boy to support, but she and Ezekiel are managing. Until Ezekiel undertakes a secret crusade to rewrite history.

His quest will take him under the wall and into a city teeming with ravenous undead, air pirates, criminal overlords, and heavily armed refugees. And only Briar can bring him out alive.


Title: Demon Princess: Reign or Shine
Author: Michelle Rowen
Genre: Young Adult
Summary:
For Nikki Donovan, being a teenager can be hell. Literally.

As if trying to fit in at a new school isn't stressful enough, sixteen-year-old Nikki Donovan just found out that her long-lost father is, in fact, the demon king of the Shadowlands—the world that separates and protects us from the Underworld. When she is brought there by the mysterious—and surprisingly cute—messenger Michael, she learns that her father is dying, and he wants her to assume the throne. To complicate matters, a war is brewing between the Shadowlands and the Underworld, her half-demon qualities are manifesting, and her growing feelings for Michael are completely forbidden. Ruling a kingdom, navigating a secret crush, and still making it home by curfew—what's a teenage demon princess to do?


Title: Seduced by Shadows
Author: Jessa Slade
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Summary:
When Sera Littlejohn meets a violet-eyed stranger, he reveals a supernatural battle veiled in the shadows, and Sera is tempted to the edge of madness by a dangerous desire. Ferris Archer takes Sera under his wing, now that she is a talyan-possessed by a repentant demon with hellish powers. Archer's league of warriors have never fought beside a female before, and never in all his centuries has Archer found a woman who captivates him like Sera.

With the balance shifting between good and evil, passion and possession, Sera and Archer must defy the darkness and dare to embrace a love that will mark them forever.


Title: Covet
Author: J.R. Ward
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Summary:
Redemption isn't a word Jim Heron knows much about-his specialty is revenge, and to him, sin is all relative. But everything changes when he becomes a fallen angel and is charge with saving the souls of seven people from the seven deadly sins. And failure is not an option. Vin DiPietro long ago sold his soul to his business, and he's good with that-until fate intervenes in the form of a tough- talking, Harley-riding, self-professed savior. But then he meets a woman who will make him question his destiny, his sanity, and his heart-and he has to work with a fallen angel to win her over and redeem his own soul.