Monthly Archives: July 2012

Faith of the Fallen by Terry Goodkind – a Review

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We continue our Sword of Truth 13 Night Marathon. In our 6th night, we bring you what many consider the best book of the entire series……Faith of the Fallen

Faith of the Fallen by Terry Goodkind – a Review


Faith of the Fallen …..I loved this book.  What a difference from the last book (Soul of the Fire).  I loved almost everything about this book.  It was great right from the beginning, with Richard & Cara taking care of Kahlan, helping to bring her back to health.  The camaraderie of the three of them was super to see, and fun to watch them force Kahlan to fight back.  It was different from earlier books, enjoyable, relaxing, and fun (even when the men earlier came after them & Cara rescued Kahlan.  It was precious to be able to spend time with them. 

Then came Nicci, as Death’s Mistress.  As much as I did not like her, she made a good villain.  But later during their traveling to the Old World, she was not as interesting, and more annoying.  This part of the story was actually dull to a point.  At least until Richard began working with Victor and Ishtag (sp?), then it got better, and I liked the people, who became his friends including Kamil.

The best part of the book (other then the ending), belonged to Kahlan, Cara, Zedd and the others, as they fought one battle after another against the Imperial Order. 

Some of those scenes were awesome & memorable.  Loved them.

  • Kahlan & Cara working so good together, especially when they grabbed hold on each other as Kahlan jumped to Cara’s horse.
  • Kahlan & Verna with the disbursing of the glass.  Then them hugging later, when the enemy began to fall apart from that.
  • Warren & Verna – the wedding (so upset that he died).
  • Zedd finally breaking through to Kahlan, and her letting her emotions through. 
  • Kahlan pushing Cara with Benjamin- Cute.
  • The betrayal of her sister and brother was a nice twist.  The four gifted ones (one of whom killed Kahlan’s brother) and her response to them was great.
  • Gadi getting his due first from Verna, then from Cara for the punishment dealt by Verna
  • Though not during the battle, Kahlan’s fury at Ann was well done. Though we don’t know if there was any truth to that theory.  But Kahlan’s anger at that time was justified.

The storyline at the end was very exciting.  The statue theme was excellent. The wonderful message hits home…”Your Life is Yours Alone…Rise up and Live it”.  It was great to see all the people helping Richard. Of course it was Nicci, who started that by unveiling the statue to Victor & Ishtag, that led to others coming at night to see it.   Nicci’s revelation was surprising and good. But then all the people looking at the statue of Life had the same reaction, as Richard effected them all.  However, Nicci was already beginning to change, and where she fits in later books will interesting, as she now recognizes Kahlan as Richard’s true love and she is now “Just Nicci”. 

Loved the ending, Richard almost letting Kahlan kill him, Richard fighting Brother Narev (couldn’t stand him),Cara saving Nicci to save Richard, and all the people helping tear things down.  Funny scene with Victor not believing he was indeed the real Richard Rahl.

What I loved the most about this book, even with so many people dying throughout, Goodkind played it straight, and we did not have to witness a torture of either Richard or Kahlan, or any of our favorites.  We heard about them, but did not have to witness it.  Warren’s death was sad, and was not necessary.  It did nothing to change the story….this was a waste.   But overall this is one of the best books of this series.  I thoroughly enjoyed it. Bravo Terry Goodkind for this fantastic return to awesomeness.

So many people picked this book as their favorite, do you agree?

Reviewed by Barb

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Nichole Chase-Interview and Giveaway with the author

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Nichole Chase-Interview with the Author

Nichole Chase is a daydreamer.

No, really, just ask any of the math teachers that had the misfortune of seeing her name appear on their class schedule.

For years she has had story lines and characters begging for attention, but she resolutely pushed them aside to focus on more normal (read, boring) jobs. Well, no longer She is currently heeding the voices in her head and frantically writing their stories. Nichole resides in South Georgia with her husband, energetic toddler, three dogs, and two cats.

When not devouring novels by the dozens, you may find her writing, painting, crafting, or chasing her daughter around the house while making monster noises.

Nichole Chase: Website

 

TRC: Hi Nichole and welcome to The Reading Café.

We would like to start with some background information.  Would you please
tell us something about yourself?

Nichole: I originally went to college for Art History, but ended up in a completely different profession. It wasn’t something that made me very happy. Thankfully, I realized that people were publishing their stories independently of publishing houses and it gave me the courage to finish Mortal Obligation. After publishing in July of 2011, I haven’t looked back. 

A little random stuff about me: the ring tone on my cell phone is the theme song from the Goonies. I love to paint and be crafty. I am the mother to a crazy, wild, beautiful, brilliant toddler that has inherited my imagination. I am a sucker for tv marathons on hot afternoons. I’m married to my soul mate who thankfully appreciates my love of random marathons. 

TRC: You proclaim yourself to be a daydreamer.  Daydreamers tend to have very active imaginations.  Do you believe this is where your love of writing stems from?

Nichole: Without a doubt, my daydreams are what inspires me to write. I’ve always loved to read, but as a child and teenager I’d get caught up in my daydreams and started scribbling down little stories in notebooks. I still have those notebooks and flip through them from time to time. In fact, one of the scenes in Mortal Obligation had a rough beginning in one of those notebooks.

TRC: As a child, how did you put your creative energies to use?

NIchole: Lots and lots of ways! Painting and drawing were my first obvious creative outlets. My parents still give me grief for painting a dolphin on my bedroom. Let’s just say we didn’t discuss my decorating idea before I put brush to wall. They did come around eventually and let me paint my whole room. My parents were great about fostering my love of art. 

In middle school I wrote my first short story. It’s rough and kind of horrible, but my grandmother took it and kept it for years. She was the first person to believe that I would be an author. 

TRC: What challenges and difficulties have you faced as a writer?

Nichole: I think one of the hardest things for a writer to do, is to believe in their self. Every time you put a book out, you are placing a bit of yourself out for the world to read.  As the mother to a rambunctious toddler, it is also hard to make time to write! That’s been a very large task to accomplish and I’m constantly trying to come up with new ways to manage it! 

TRC: MORTAL OBLIGATION is the first book in your YA Dark Betrayal series? 

Nichole: Yes. 

TRC: Would you please tell us about the premise?

Nichole: Mortal Obligation follows the story of Alastriana (Ree) McKenna as she learns her frightful destiny. She is the only mortal standing between the Earth and utter destruction. Thankfully, she has the help of immortal guardians, one of which just happens to be her brothers hot best friend. 

 

LINKS TO PURCHASE Mortal Obligations:
Amazon Kindle, Amazon Paper Books,B&N Nook and Paper Books

TRC: The premise is different compared to other ‘vampire’ genre storylines. How did you come up with the idea?  

Nichole: It started with a scene, or rather while driving through downtown Savannah and seeing a girl walk through one of the squares. She had this look of concern and kept glancing over her shoulder as if thinking someone was following her. The radio was playing Evanescence and my mind took off. I needed to know what she was trying to get away from, who– or more importantly, what was following her. From there, my mind just picked at the idea until I had a working outline. In a lot of ways, I worked backwards. I had a scene, but needed the details, the in’s and out’s. 

TRC: Was there an ‘ah ha’ moment that pushed you along a certain path?

Nichole: There were several, but I will say that the main one had to do with Roland. When I first began the book, I had no intention of having a love triangle. Unfortunately, Roland was very persistent about some things. (Yes, my characters talk to me. They have their own personalities. My husband is constantly giving me worried looks.) I was driving home from a doctors appointment, when Roland suddenly explained why certain things had to happen, why certain people felt certain ways. It was a huge AH HA moment.  I may have fist pumped and drummed on my steering wheel, but only the other drivers on the road will know for sure. 😉 

TRC: MORTAL DEFIANCE is the second instalment in the series.  Would you please tell us about the premise?

Nichole: Mortal Defiance picks up immediately following Mortal Obligation. In this book, lines are drawn between people, gods, and enemies. The gang also realizes that when the gods are involved nothing is as clear-cut as it seems. The romance picks up in this book and Ree has to come to terms with who she is and the responsibility that comes along with it.

TRC: Is Mortal Defiance available for e-readers?

Nichole: Actually, Mortal Defiance released in December of 2011. It is available for Nook and Kindle as well as paperback on both Barnes and Noble and Amazon.

LINKS TO PURCHASE Mortal Defiance: Amazon Paper Books, Amazon Kindle, B&N Nook and Paper Books

TRC: IMMORTAL GRAVE is the final book in the Dark Betrayal series.  Would you please tell us about the premise?  When will it be available?

Nichole: Immortal Grave is the conclusion to the Dark Betrayal Trilogy. The final battle unleashes chaos in Savannah, while Ree learns to deal with the changes that happened in Mortal Defiance. So far, Immortal Grave has been my favorite story line. So much happens, so much comes clear, and Ree starts kicking serious butt. I don’t have a release date for Immortal Grave, yet, but I do think it will be soon! 

TRC: The ‘love triangle’ between Ree, Payden and Roland is almost heartbreaking.  It is difficult to pick a clear ‘suitor’ for Ree. Do you mange to write a conclusion that you were happy with the results?  Will our hearts break?

Nichole: There is one thing that I can tell you, that will hopefully ease your worry: I am a ‘Happy Ever After’ kinda gal! The one thing I hate when reading a book is an ending where people I love are unhappy. There may be some heartbreak along the way, but it’s the same way in life. 

TRC: What challenges have you faced with the Dark Betrayal series?

Nichole: Time constraints have been a problem. In fact, that has been the biggest challenge I’ve faced in writing period.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas around with other authors, friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Nichole: I talk to my sister a great deal. She is the one that poked me until I finally published Mortal Obligation. There are a lot of people that I use as beta readers, that I know will be brutally honest. I also bounce ideas off of my lovely friends, Liz Reinhardt (author of the Brenna Blixen series and Inherit), Elizabeth Hunter (The Elemental Mysteries), and Sarah Ross (Awaken). 

TRC: Writer’s Block is a real phenomenon for many writers.  How do you handle the stress of writer’s block?

Nichole: Grrr. Writers block for me, usually means that I’m not happy with a turn my story has taken. So, I have to break down and be willing to change something. Sometimes, expectations can cause writers block and you have to let go of those and write the story you set out to write. (Much easier said than done.) I recommend some good mood music, anything to remind you of why you love your book and characters so much. 

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Nichole: I’m currently finishing up Immortal Grave, but I’m also dabbling with my novel, Flukes. (I’m very excited about both of these books!) 

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Nichole: Thank you so much for having me on your site! I loved answering these questions. 

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food

Homemade burritos!

Favorite Dessert

Chocolate lava cake. YUM!

Favorite TV Show

Doc Martin (BBC)

Favorite Movie

Pride and Prejudice with Keira Knightly  

Last Movie you Saw

Brave (loved it!)

Dark or Milk Chocolate

Milk

Last Vacation Destination

Bahamas! 

TRC:  Thank you Nichole for taking the time to answer our questions.  We are
looking forward to the release of Immortal Grave.  We wish you all the
best.

********GIVEAWAY*******

Nichole has offered an e- copy of MORTAL OBLIGATION to one lucky member at The Reading Cafe.

1.  You must be a member at The Reading Cafe.  If you are not a member, please register using the log-in at the top of the page, or by using one of the social log-ins.

2.  If you are using Twitter or Facebook, please leave your email address with the comments, as some of the social log-ins do not allow for email contacts.

3. Contest is open internationally.

4.  Contest runs from July 29 to August 2, 2012.

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Mortal Obligation (Dark Betrayal #1) by Nichole Chase-a review

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Mortal Obligation (Dark Betrayal #1) by Nichole Chase-a review

MORTAL OBLIGATION (Dark Betrayal Trilogy #1) by Nichole Chase

MORTAL OBLIGATION is the first book in Nichole Chase’s Young Adult DARK BETRAYAL TRILOGY. Ree Mckenna is your typical 17year old senior in high school, hoping for her first kiss and working her first job to earn money for college. Family life had been difficult since the death of her older brother Tristan, and Ree is continually haunted by nightmares and visions. Thinking someone is watching and waiting, Ree soon finds herself in a world where nightmares really do come true.

Ree’s metamorphosis from teenage girl to the only thing standing between life and the ruination of mankind is abrupt. One moment Ree and her friends are on their way to a concert and the next, they are on the run from what can only be described as demons with fangs. Oh, and to complicate matters, Ree can manipulate the power around her, and her friends have now developed fangs of their own. They find a kindred soul in Sophie, Ree’s boss, but soon learn that Sophie is the person who will aid the young teens on their journey to save the world.

The background into their family histories will shock and amaze each other as the teens learn to cope with their new-found abilities and formulate a plan to keep Ree safe until the ultimate test. Ree is the only one who had never realized that life was different. Each with their own stories to tell, Ree will learn that she is the one mortal who has the power to deal the death blow in the final battle between good and the Dark Ones. But all the planning and power will not help when she learns the identity of the one hoping to end her life.

There is a love triangle forming between Ree, her bestfriend and guardian Paden, and Roland- a reformed Dark One who trains and prepares the young changelings for a potential fight to the death. But there is something about Ree that calls to Roland, and Ree is struck at the animosity and jealousy that continues to flare between Paden and Roland. Let’s hope Nichole writes a HEA that will not break our hearts.

MORTAL OBLIGATION is a fascinating look at a ‘different’ type of vampire storyline. With a history that can be traced to the gods and goddesses from a different time, the novel is a wonderful Young Adult addition to any collection. The story is fast paced, with plenty of action and interaction, and a little romance to keep the heart a-flutter. A great start to a new series.

READING ORDER
1. Mortal Obligation
2. Mortal Defiance
3. Immortal Grave (Release date TBA)

LINKS TO PURCHASE:
Amazon Kindle
Amazon Paper Books
B&N Nook and Paper Books

Reviewed by Sandy

Copy supplied by author.

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How To Flirt With A Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper-a review

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How To Flirt with a Naked Werewolf by Molly Harper-a review

HOW TO FLIRT WITH A NAKED WEREWOLF (Naked Werewolf #1) by Molly Harper

HOW TO FLIRT WITH A NAKED WEREWOLF is the first storyline in Molly Harper’s Naked Werewolf series. Set in Gundy Alaska, the story focuses on Mo Wenstein, the daughter of two hippies still stuck in the mindset of the Haight-Ashbury era.

Mo needs to leave Mississippi, get away from her smothering parents and start a new life as far away as possible. And heading to Gundy Alaska seemed liked the right move. Finding a place to live was easy- a secluded cabin in the woods- and landing a job that basically drops into her lap-even easier. But finding a wolf with blue-green eyes eating an elk in her backyard was a little disconcerting. It was as though the wolf was looking right into her soul.

Cooper Graham is a werewolf. As the alpha of his pack Cooper left under uneasy circumstances, leaving Eli in charge. Hoping one day to return, Cooper takes up residence in Gundy, where he is neither friendly nor outgoing. But seeing the beautiful new comer at the local saloon has called up all of Cooper’s alpha male instincts-and his wolf wanted its’ mate.

Mo is the new girl in town who has caught the attention of every available male, but there is one male who seems to hold a definite grudge. When a large wolf comes to Mo’s aid during an attempted robbery, Mo recognizes the eyes, but it is not until a very injured and naked Cooper falls onto her front step does Mo know for sure.

A very large wolf has been attacking the local residents, but when 2 young tourists go missing, the hunt begins for a rogue wolf. Mo is concerned that the attacks may have been werewolf related and possibly by Cooper himself. But as their relationship grows, Mo realizes that the man she is falling in love with, could not be the wolf destroying the lives of the people she now calls her friends. But when Cooper is called back home, he must face his family and his pack.

Cooper is a reluctant alpha. He believes himself unworthy and has left his friend Eli in charge. But as the attacks increase, so does Cooper’s concern. Believing himself capable of killing, Cooper leaves town without a word, knowing he has abandoned his mate in the process. But it is not until his mother reaches out, does Cooper know where his heart belongs. Only now, his mate may be the next victim in a power struggle for pack control.

HOW TO FLIRT WITH A NAKED WEREWOLF is an easy read and a lighthearted look at life in small town Alaska except there are a few supernatural critters. Picture Joe Manganiello as Cooper and all your worries will fly. Molly writes with humor and smart one-liners that will have you laughing along with the storyline. Her characters are your basic home-spun people trying to survive the harsh winters and cold nights. The story is enjoyable, a fun read with a little romance on the side.

LINKS TO PURCHASE:
Amazon Paper Books
Amazon Kindle
B&N Nook and Paper Books
The Book Depository
KOBO

Reviewed by Sandy

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Soul of the Fire by Terry Goodkind – a Review

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We are now on our 5th night of our Sword of Truth 13 Night Marathon. Let us begin with the next book in the series…..Soul of the Fire.

 

Soul of the Fire by Terry Goodkind – a Review

I enjoyed Soul of the Fire, but in my opinion I thought that this was the worst of the first 5 books of Sword of Truth.  There were some good parts, some boring parts and some exciting parts.  The beginning and probably much of the middle was a little slow.  But the beginning was nice to see Richard & Kahlan together, seeing the mud people, Cara, Zedd, Ann, Chandelan, the Bird man.  The chicken not a chicken was a bit silly, but you got the point about the chimes being loose.  I understand why Zedd & Ann lied to them, but are we ever going to have them work together.   They constantly say Richard knows nothing, but Richard is more powerful then any of them, and he didn’t even need the Sword of Truth in the end. 

When they left the mud people, even if that was a bit slow, I thought it went more downhill after that.  Too slow for them to finally agree to go to Anderith. For whatever reason, especially in this book, Richard and Kahlan seemed to be disagreeing too much.

Goodkind is great with bringing in new characters, but in this book I thought there was too many new characters, and none of them were likeable.  At first I liked Fitch, but ended up not liking him later. The scene with Fitch getting the Sword so easily, it was dumb, and having Cara chase him all the way back to Anderith was a bit unrealistic. I was happy in a way that he was killed.  Beata was the only one I really liked throughout. In fact, would love to see her character come back again, more with Cara to learn. Du Chailen was an extra add on, to me though she was ok throughout and helped Kahlan at the end, but it served no real purpose. 

I felt too much time was spent on these secondary characters, which actually became the main story.  I know Goodkind was trying to show social backgrounds, the prejudices, as well as the evil leaders.   Cranboor (both husband and wife) were bad, Dalton turned out to be one of the most baffling characters.  At times he seemed nice, other times he showed no remorse to kill innocent people, so that he could get ahead.  He truly was shocked at Franca’s death, turned into a hero (for a moment) when he scalped & killed Stein, and gave Richard his Sword back.  But redeeming him was stupid, because he was the one who caused the deaths, helped Cranboor advance, and had them try to kill Kahlan. Another part I felt was unnecessary…Kahlan being pregnant, then losing it.  What was the point???

I thought Zedd’s part as the raven was pretty good.  He tried to get clues to Richard, and did try to help Franca. Even his horse was cute. Ann’s part with the sisters was boring to me, and also not necessary, except to show one of the sisters finally going back to the light.  I enjoyed the ending, with Richard coming through without power or his sword. Overall, though I liked many parts, I was bored in too many parts, and did not enjoy reading so much about these unlikable characters. The end with Kahlan was so depressing…a real downer.  I did like the chime theme, but thought Terry could have done more with it.

What are your thoughts? We really do want to know.

Reviewed by Barb

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Nice Girls Don’t Bite Their Neighbors by Molly Harper-a review

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Nice Girls Don’t Bite Their Neighbors by Molly Harper-a review

Nice Girls Don’t Bite Their Neighbors  (February 2012 release)– Book 4

Nice Girls Don’t Bite Their Neighbors begins with Jane finally saying yes to her boyfriend and Sire, Gabriel, who was forced to turn her when she had been mortally injured. She finally feels that she is in a good place (after being turned into a vampire) and ready to get married. Before the celebrations can start though, Jane’s grandmother, Ruthie, dies. Along with that, while Jane is outside of her bookstore in town, a car comes out of nowhere and hits Jamie, a young man that Jane babysat when he was a child and their families had been friends for years. Jamie was dying and Jane made the decision to turn him in to a vampire in order to save his life. Once that is done, Jane is required by the council to take care of her “childe”, which means he has to move in with Jane and Gabriel so that they can teach him how to live as a vampire. On top of that, Grandma Ruthie, who has never been approving of Jane, either as a human or a vampire, starts haunting where Jane, Gabriel and Jamie live. She is bound and determined to drive them from their home.

Jane and Gabriel are a little overwhelmed with everything going on and decide to leave the house for an outing, where they are attacked and Gabriel is shot with an arrow and poisoned. All of this while trying to plan a wedding. Jane’s mom and sister are great in helping out with the wedding plans, (even though they have not been close in the last little while), as are Andrea (Dick’s wife, and to say dick has more connections than any mafia don is an understatement) and Jolene (Zeb’s wife). Zeb is Jane’s best friend, who also happens to be a werewolf. All along though, accidents keep happening.

To say there are a few bumps in the road during this story is an understatement. A lot of humans are furious about Jane turning Jamie, and constantly deface her bookstore. Once folks figure out that Jane did it to save him, they eventually come around. Dick and Andrea are instrumental in helping sort out who keeps causing the accidents. And Jane’s aunt (who is a ghost and Grandma Ruthie’s sister), finally come up with a way to get rid of Grandma Ruthie’s ghost. In the end, Jane and Gabriel say their I dos and are off to enjoy their honeymoon.

I really enjoyed this book and getting to know the characters. I have not read the first three books in this series, but will definitely be going back to read them! I enjoyed the humor in the book and the crazy situations they constantly found themselves in. The leader of the Vampire Council was frozen into her immortality at 16, so the fact that everyone has to take orders from a teenaged looking girl is hysterical. Jane is quick-witted and plays beautifully off of the other characters. There are so many scenes that will literally make you laugh out loud. And when they all gather, ghosts and vampires alike, to vanquish ghost granny, it was hysterical. And the outcome of Jane’s kidnapping (while getting ready for her wedding) will have you laughing and shaking your head. If you like quick, fun reads, you’ll definitely enjoy this book!!

LINKS TO PURCHASE:
Amazon Kindle
Amazon Paper Books
KOBO
The Book Depository
B&N Nook and Paper Books

Reviewed by Vickie M.

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The Wannabe Vampire by Alex Taylor-a review

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The Wannabe Vampire by Alex Taylor-a review

The Wannabe Vampire by Alex Taylor-release date June 2012

Catchy title, don’t you agree? First-time author, Alex Taylor introduces us to a trio of characters whose influence on one another is both stimulating and possibly life-ending. Intense dichotomy, right? Fortunately for us, the story is well-written and in consequence to Mr. Taylor’s talent, I was left wondering to which character did the title apply?

As a lover of PNR, I favor vampires (who me?) and have read several variations on them. This take is unique. Michael is a centuries-old vampire who drinks blood to survive, but attempts longer stretches in between feedings to revel in the sensations when he finally succumbs to the blood thirst. He enjoys food immensely (referring to himself as a culinary masochist), although consumed in tiny portions so as to savor and appreciate different tastes. Not your typical vampire attributes, to say the least. Michael has worked very diligently at blending in with his neighbors in Central California; overseeing a games software company in Mumbai allows him to work at night and earn a lucrative income. Lamenting about the past only brings back sad memories, so Michael wants to thrive in the now.

Kari just moved in next door to Michael. She is a freelance cartoonist who’s featured in local indie newspapers. Her last relationship ended in disaster (5 years of emotional abuse, post-break-up stalking and the eventual testimony in court, solidifying the break-up) and has sworn off men. Michael’s interest is piqued after years of solitude and the pair soon becomes fast friends. Movie nights and dinners become weekly dates, but did I mention Kari thinks Michael’s gay? His “otherworldly”, gallant mannerisms MUST be contrived, right? Courteous behavior and a touch of a European accent HAVE to mean he’s gay, right? One particular night…man’s age-old proof of attraction promptly dispels that theory.

Bruce is a middle-aged, life-long bed wetter stemming from a childhood fright, that has resulted in the fright comes to life, aka, Agnes, who haunts him 24/7. Desperate to rid himself of her constant, aggressive presence, Bruce orchestrates a plan to become a vampire — THE nocturnal predator, whom ghosts fear! Now all Bruce has to do is convince Michael to turn him.

The writing is good. Mr. Taylor engages and delights us with a budding love story between Michael and Kari. Midway through, however, the book got a bit scattered. Kari goes from affable, non-judgmental gal falling in love with Michael, to anxious, over-imaginative contemplations of a “dark” side to Michael that he has yet to display. Then there’s Bruce. He approaches Michael with the “proposal”, but when Michael won’t budge, won’t admit to being a vampire, Bruce decides to tamper with Michael (and Kari’s) lives instead and becomes the inadvertent stalker with a “If you can’t beat ‘em…” mentality. What??? Even Michael goes a bit off-kilter. The usually composed, reserved vampire who makes “dates” for blood donors through a “men’s website”, (hey, maybe Kari DID have reason to suspect?), suddenly lets it all hang loose at a Halloween party Kari cajoled him into attending. Gone is the stoic vampire to an all-out seduction campaign of every party attendee; be it man or woman, young or old. **Skidding to a halt** Let’s get back to the bond that was building –I had high hopes for an intimate seduction between the pair! As bizarre as Michael’s behavior was at the Halloween party, Kari got insight she desperately needed and realized the vampire was inexorably part of the man she loved.

The Wannabe Vampire could apply to Bruce as the spurned hopeful or Michael, the atypical vampire with human-like behavior. I enjoyed the book, but hoped for a different outcome. Perhaps Mr. Taylor can return to these enjoyable characters and give us a glimpse into their new “now”. I would love to read more!

 

 NEW COVER: 

The Wannabe Vampire

Copy supplied by author

Reviewed by Carmen

LINK to website: Alex Taylor

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Temple of the Winds by Terry Goodkind – a Review

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We begin the 4th night of our Sword of Truth 13 Night Marathon. Tonight’s post is Temple of the Winds.

Temple of the Winds by Terry Goodkind – a Review

Temple of the Winds is Terry Goodkind’s 4th Sword of Truth book.  I absolutely loved Temple of the Winds.  What made this great was that it got my attention from the beginning, which I enjoyed and continued to move forward at a rapid pace, and a humdinger of an ending. I do have to note, for those who have not read this series, there are some spoilers in this review.  So if you don’t want to know, then do not read further.

I adored the beginning with Richard, Kahlan and the mord-sith girls.  I loved how he was able to soften them up with feeding the chipmunks..cute.  I loved their interaction with their sister of the agiel, Kahlan.  I have come to love Cara, as one of the strongest female characters that I have read.  In this case, Bravo to Goodkind for making such strong female leads as Kahlan, Cara, Berdine (I really like her), Raina, and even Denna (who I did not like early on).

I did not like Nadine, nor Drefan.   I knew she was a bitch.  On that same thought, I knew early on that he was bad.  I knew when Drefan violated Cara while she was out of it, that he was another villain under the disguise of being Richard’s nice guy brother. Kahlan sensed that early, but never let herself look deeply at the real Drefan.  

The plague was a good story, but I thought it was too long, with some new unnecessary characters. I guess the point was to show the devastation and grief.  I loved Nathan, and Zedd as usual.  Ann was ok, at times irritating.  Verna too was ok, not as good as in previous.  I really liked Shota in this book, and was happy Kahlan and her made peace..for now.  But all, including Zedd have come realize the awesome power of Richard.

Now we come to Richard and Kahlan once again being torn apart.   It is one thing when Goodkind separates them over and over again.  But to force them to marry another, then have them “consummate their marriage’ immediately was a fiasco. To make Kahlan who loved Richard more then life itself..do what she did and have Richard (& fans doubt her)… I felt bad for her, as she fought her horror with her soul the first time thinking it was Drefan….she was out of her mind, thinking all was lost forever & let her screwed up emotions rule her behavior.  Cara doing the switch..somehow, somewhere there should have been a warning…just me venting. Fortunately it wasn’t Drefan, so we can be happy about that. 

The ending was intense, exciting, totally awesome.  Though I hated the part where Drefan became the Lord Rahl. Again was thrilled when Nadine was killed after hearing her laugh and giggle thinking she was having sex with Richard.  Glad Deena helped again to push Richard back, and also Richard hopefully finally eliminating Darken Rahl, and nice touch for Raina to be the light to help Richard gain his strength to fight Drefan.  Kahlan suffering, yet doing everything she could to help her sister Cara.  At the end, Drefan was the main villain here, a certified madman. His torture of Cara with the rats, his stabbing Kahlan…and finally Richard….our magnificent Richard coming to his full power…healing Cara with what little strength he had …then though he had nothing left…healing the love of this life, Kahlan.  Then using his power to bring himself to full strength….killing the hated Drefan with raw power was great. 

I adored the ending…seeing Zedd, Shota coming to wish them luck and warn them; seeing the mud people (Chandelan, the Bird Man); finally to see them get married.   Also funny to ignore Zedd telling them that the mud people want their spirit house back..lol Cara making sure to close the door and push him away.  Classic…. Great book, great ending.

Tell us your own thoughts of Temple of the Winds.

Reviewed by Barb

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