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Slay by Laurell K. Hamilton – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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Slay by Laurell K. Hamilton – Review & Giveaway

 

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Description:
Necromancer Anita Blake is small, dark, and dangerous. Her turf is the city of St. Louis. Her job: U.S. Marshal—Preternatural Branch. She’s faced horrifying monsters and brutal killers and come out the other side still standing.

Considering how things in her life tend to go, Anita never expected her walk down the aisle with Jean-Claude to go smoothly. They’ve already been confronted with naysayers and a power-hungry ancient evil, but now Anita has to do the one thing that actually scares her: introduce her very religious, very human relatives to her fiancé—the newly crowned vampire king of America.

As Anita tries to keep the peace between the family she left behind and the family she’s chosen, dark forces jump at the chance to take advantage of the chaos. With her happy-ever-after at risk and everyone’s immortal souls hanging in the balance, Anita grapples with a hard truth: Blood makes you related, but loyalty makes you family.

 

Review:

Slay by Laurell K. Hamiltion is the 30th book in her fantastic Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter series. And I have to admit although a great story, it could have been added to the “Smoulder” book, it felt like a continuation…..

Preternatural U.S. Marshal and vampire hunter Anita Blake is preparing for her wedding to the vampire king of America Jean-Claude…..But it’s not been an easy journey, the humans don’t like Jean-Claude they think he’s got her under some kind of spell and will turn on the humans given half a chance! 

And Jean-Claude’s pack, in fact all the vampires think Anita has their king under her spell, so she’s not exactly their choice for their king! And just when you think it can’t get any worse…. Her family roll up!! Grandma who is vile at best (abused the young Anita) turns up with her dad, who thinks Jean-Claude is evil incarnate! Family dramas aside, we also have a new evil entity wanting to destroy the king of the vampires! 

I will admit, I’ve not read all the Anita Blake stories, I came in late to the series. But it’s an easy enough to pick up and drop a book series, without losing too much. Anita has had many lovers/partners throughout the series. She’s also had many issues with family. And I like that she doesn’t shy away from any of it. 

So while Anita is trying to plan the wedding and keep her family from killing her fiancé and extended lovers/family, there is an evil killing vampires in St. Louis. Is it the evil from the last book returning to take the crown from the new vampire king? 

Apparently her earlier Anita books were just smut and no story! Well I can tell you that had changed… we do get smut, but there is more story and substance now. 

A fast paced action book with evil/power/anger/grief and so much more! 

There are also attacks on her extended family that have Anita worried for their lives, she needs to keep her blood family away from them! There are also traitors within Jean-Claude’s ranks, and they are conspiring with the ancient evil, which makes it an even bigger problem.

The ending is eventful and had me on the edge of my seat, I nearly threw my kindle twice as I jumped. A highly recommended read that will keep you up till your done ? 

Reviewed by Julie

Copy provided by Publisher

 

A figure rounded the bend in the stairs all that way down, and before my eyes told me who, the energy we shared danced over my skin as if he’d brushed his fingertips over parts of my body that were hidden under my clothes. I shivered as I watched him lift off the steps and start floating toward me. It made me laugh and say, “Now there’s a solution to all these damned steps.”
He rose toward the ceiling, his long black hair spilling out around him like a dark aura. His hair wasn’t streaming out around him because he was flying toward me but moving in the wind of his own power, so that his black curls writhed and boiled like a dozen hands were playing with it, but it was his magic, just his magic.
He needed one of his usual lace, leather, and sexy-boots outfits for all that hair to frame, but he was dressed in one of only two modern suits I’d ever seen him in; the first time it had been to save the feelings of a grieving family, and this time we were trying not to give my father any other reason to hate him. In that moment I knew I didn’t care if my dad liked him or not. I loved Jean-Claude and nothing my dad did would change that.
He landed lightly on first one foot, then the other until he stood beside me at the top of the stairs. I wrapped my arms around him, but the traditionally long suit jacket felt wrong on him. He either did no jacket or some version of a bolero so that it hit him somewhere between his lower ribs and just below his natural waist. He had a fabulous ass, and it seemed a shame to cover it up.
He wrapped his arms around me and laughed. “Ma petite, we chose this suit precisely so it would cover more of my body, so I did not shock your family.”
I stared up into that beautiful face with the darkest blue eyes I’d ever seen, set in thick black lashes with a perfect curve of eyebrows that were all natural; he didn’t even need mascara. So unfair to the rest of us. His face was almost feminine in its beauty, but there was something about the line of his chin that turned all that gorgeousness a little more masculine. He was still androgynous, but it leaned a little more to the male side. The long black curls framed his face and trailed down his shoulders almost to his waist. My family thought long hair was only for girls. Putting him in a traditional men’s suit really didn’t make him look more like the type of man my family would approve of, but hey, at least we were trying.
“I won’t ever look into your face without thinking how beautiful you are, and why are you marrying me?”
“I believe that is the man’s line, ma petite.”
I grinned and said, “Traditionally it is, but most men don’t look like you.”
“That you compare yourself to me and think yourself the lesser beauty means you do not see truth when you look into the mirror, ma petite.”
“I second that,” Nicky said.
I glanced at him and couldn’t help but smile at the look on his face. “I know I don’t always see the truth in the mirror. Nicky and Ethan have met who messed me up.” I turned back to Jean-Claude. “That delight is still ahead of you.”
“I am looking forward to it, ma petite, and before you complain I would give much if my mother and sister were alive for me to introduce you to them. That I can meet your family, however broken, is a gift to me.”

Excerpted from Slay by Laurell K. Hamilton Copyright © 2023 by Laurell K. Hamilton. Excerpted by permission of Berkley. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

 

 

 

Laurell K Hamilton’s publisher (Penguin/Random House)  is graciously offering a hard copy of SLAY to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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Fused in Earth and Stone by Sandy Williams – a Review

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Fused in Earth and Stone by Sandy Williams – a Review

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Description:
Kennedy knew challenging the power-players of the supernatural world would come at a cost, but she always thought she’d be the one to pay the price.

When Kennedy dares to open The Rain’s doors to unsanctioned paranorms, she sets off a chain of events that will test her determination like never before. As retribution, the ruthless master vampire, Arcuro, captures one of Kennedy’s closest allies. Despite the advice from those around her, she refuses to let Arcuro’s actions go unanswered.

Kennedy must navigate the politics of the paranormal world to form new alliances, but one tiny misstep could result in disaster, and one small act of indiscretion might reveal feelings Kennedy has tried so hard to ignore. If she wanted to play it safe, she would stay away from Blake and his teasing smiles. Unfortunately, she’ll need his help to have any chance to free her friend.

With doubts chipping away at her confidence and old enemies resurfacing, Kennedy comes up with a risky plan. Can she outwit the cunning master vampire? Or will her resolve to undermine him lead her down a treacherous path, putting The Rain and everyone around her in jeopardy?

 

 

Review:

Fused in Earth and Stone by Sandy Williams is the 3rd book in her wonderful Kennedy Rain series. Refresher: Kennedy Rain, our heroine, is in sole control of the Rain Hotel. What makes the Rain Hotel unique?   The hotel is a null zone for paranormals, with a treaty that has been in effect for hundreds of years; a place to recover, be at peace, or just time to relax with no pressure; a werewolf can avoid the full moon or a vampire can see the sun, or recover from an injury. The Werewolves and Vampires, plus some other unknow species take turns to come and stay at the hotel.

Kennedy is still forbidding the werewolves or vampires to enter the Rain Hotel, despite both the Wolves and Vampire leaders being very angry with her.  Kennedy knows that Shelli, the witch and her coven were the ones who killed her parents, and she wants revenge. With the inn still closed, Kennedy realizes she needs to do something to open the hotel, and allows any unsanctioned paranorms that are willing to put their names on a list that she puts up, without the approval the Lehr (or Arcuro). A number of wolves enter the hotel, which sets off a chain of events.

Beside Lehr (Werewolf leader) being angry, it is the ruthless Arcuro (Vampire master) who acts out by capturing Daegen, one of Kennedy’s allies.  Though Jared, Nora, Blake try to tell Kennedy that there is no hope to save Daegen; but she is determined to find a way to save him.  Kennedy will devise a risky plan to meet with old ancient vampires to help kill Arcuro.  Will the plan work?    

When everything falls apart, she finds herself, as well as Christian, in extreme danger, with their lives in jeopardy.  Not only has an old enemy resurfaced, Kennedy will need to be a step ahead to defeat the evil who killed her parents.  Blake will also put himself in danger, when trying to rescue Kennedy at the hands of Arcuro. Can they outwit the nasty master vampire?

Kennedy is also determined to keep her human friends safe, as they have never been aware of the hotel, and the paranormals.  I liked Kennedy, who was a great heroine, as she was as stubborn as ever.  I have hoped at some time in the future, she and Blake might have a possible romance in future books; though the werewolf leader would never allow it.  

What follows is a, tense and exciting story, with Kennedy in the middle of it all. There was so much action from start to finish, I could not put the book down; as it was an edge of your seat thriller.  I do not want to tell too much more, as it would ruin it for you.  As we raced to the climax, with the evil always threatening Kennedy, I really liked the ending and can’t wait for the next book. Fused in Earth and Stone was an excellent addition to this series, which was very well written by Sandy Williams. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy supplied for review

 

 

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Heart Stings by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

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Heart Stings (Elemental Assassin 19.5) by Jennifer Estep – Dual Review & Giveaway

 

 

 

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Description:
Heart stings can be the most dangerous wounds of all . . .

Lorelei Parker has had plenty of “heart stings” in her life—moments that are both happy and sad. With her grandmother’s recent marriage, Lorelei has had far more good times than bad lately.

That all changes when a ruthless Ashland underworld boss starts threatening her, but Lorelei is determined to figure out why the other crime boss is so interested in her thriving business. She vows to use her elemental Ice and metal magic to do whatever it takes to defend herself and her family.

Also in the mix is the mercurial Hugh Tucker. Lorelei doesn’t know what the vampire is up to, or if he’s a friend or an enemy. Tucker might even be something else, something more—if Lorelei can stay alive long enough to figure out whose side he’s really on . . .

Note: Heart Stings is a 38,000-word novella from the point of view of Lorelei Parker. It takes place after the events of Last Strand, book 19 in the Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series.

 

 

Barb’s Review:
Heart Stings by Jennifer Estep is a novella (19.5 book) from her wonderful Elemental Assassin series.  This novella takes place after Last Strand (finale), and is focused on Lorelei Parker. Lorelei has become friends with Gin and her gang, and with Gin away on vacation, she helps her grandmother plan a wedding, since the last one was destroyed by an attack (Last Strand).

Lorelei is being threatened by the underworld boss, Clyde, who wants to buy her shipping business, and she keeps refusing.  She knows he will attempt to force her to accept, but Lorelei is ready to defend herself and her grandmother, with her elemental ice and metal magic ability. At a restaurant, having dinner with her family, Hugh Tucker stops over to say hello.  The attraction between the two of them sizzles, but both do not trust each other.  Lorelei overhears Tucker accepting a job working for Clyde, and is concerned if he is an enemy to her, or he has other plans. When she and Tucker end up in the same room, the both succumb to their feelings.

At the party, Lorelei is kidnapped by the underworld boss, and she learns the real reason for his wanting her shipping business. Clyde plans to find what he is looking for; he also plans to kill her; as well as kill Tucker. But Lorelei doesn’t worry, as she uses her elemental ice magic to stop Clyde, saving herself and Tucker, who also joins in to help defeat Clyde and his giants.

What follows is an exciting, romantic and wonderful story! I loved seeing Lorelei and Tucker together, as they were very steamy. Since this was a novella, it was nice to spend time with Lorelei, and see how she uses her powers to protect others.  Though I was not a big fan of Tucker in this series, he turned out very good in this story.

Heart Stings was very well written by Jennifer Estep, which was a fun short story, and I loved every minute.  Lorelei was a great heroine in this book. I hope sometime in the future, we get to see the heroes of Elemental Assassin, such as Gin, Finn, Owen, Bria, Silvo, Sophia, Jo Jo, along with Lorelei and Tucker. If you have not read the Elemental Assassin series, it is time for you to start now.

 

Sandy’s Review:

HEART STINGS is instalment 19.5 and novella in Jennifer Estep’s contemporary, adult ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN paranormal/urban fantasy series. This is business woman, ice and metal elemental Lorelei Parker, and vampire Hugh Tucker’s story line. HEART STINGS can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading LAST STRAND for back story and cohesion. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. HEART STINGS takes places approximately one month after the events of book 19-LAST STRAND, and the disastrous wedding reception of Lorelei’s grandmother Mallory Parker and her new husband Stuart Mosley.

NOTE: Heart Stings first appeared in the Dirty Deeds 2 anthology in 2022.

Told from first person perspective (Lorelei Parker) HEART STINGS follows Lorelei, a one time smuggler turned shipyard owner who is struggling with the likes of crime boss Clyde O’Neal. A dead body in her backyard, threats against her life, and vampire Hugh Tucker working for Clyde meant Lorelei Parker was in the direct line of fire, as Clyde O’Neal demanded ownership of Lorelei’s shipping yard but there is something in the shipyard that Clyde desperately wants, and Lorelei is standing in the way of Clyde’s demands.

HEART STINGS is a story of desperation and greed, flirtation and attraction, forgiveness, acceptance and love.The fast paced premise is intriguing and enchanting; the romance is subtle; the $ex scene is passionate; the characters are magical and determined. HEART STINGS is an exciting and interesting addition to the Elemental Assassin series where two previous- secondary characters finds their own happily ever after.

Copies supplied for review

 

 

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Smolder by Laurell K. Hamilton – a Review

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Smolder by Laurell K. Hamilton – a Review

 

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Description 

  • Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, goes up against an ancient evil set on destroying all she holds dear in the new book in the Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling series.

My name is Anita Blake and I’m no stranger to killing monsters. But this time, it’s personal…

The wedding of the century is almost here. My wedding – to Jean-Claude, the new vampire king of America. But not everyone wishes us well. Humans think I’m on the side of the monsters. And the vampires fear their king is under the spell of the most powerful necromancer in a thousand years – me.

When the St. Louis police summon me to a brutal murder scene linked a nationwide slaughter of vampires and humans, I know there is more than just a killer to catch. An ancient evil has arrived in town, hell bent on destroying everything – and everyone – I love.

Even I cannot face this alone. Jean-Claude and I must embrace our triumvirate to save both vampires and humans, and to prove that love conquers all. 

 

Review 

Smolder by Laurell K. Hamilton is the twenty-ninth book in her series with our Preternatural U.S. Marshal and vampire hunter Anita Blake. 

It’s not necessary to read them all (it’s a pretty long series) but it does help a little. But saying that I’ve not read them all, I’ve only read her recent ones, and I managed to keep abreast of who is who and what is what ? 

Anita Blake is preparing for her wedding to the vampire king of America Jean-Claude. (They’ve been an item/couple for many years, and you’ll see their relationship in most of the books) 

So the story starts with Anita’s best friend U.S. Marshall Ted Forrester. Whilst he is admiring himself in his  best man clothing, Anita gets a phone call from the local police. They think the Sunshine Murderer has hit again. 

But, that’s not the only thing going on in St. Louis. An ancient being has arrived to challenge Jean-Claude for his vampire crown. And it’s not looking good for Jean-Claude! He might be the most powerful vampire around, but he’s still no match for the newcomer! Will he lose his crown? 

Then you have both humans and vampires thinking neither one should be with the other! Humans think Anita will take the vampire’s side over theirs, and the vampires think Anita will eventually turn their king against them! 

Although I’ve not read all the books in this series, the ones I’ve read have given me the impression Anita has become a pretty powerful entity, she has many powers at her fingertips, and this book sees her utilising most of them…..

So, what with keeping her vampire partner alive and on his thrown, she’s keeping humans happy, the vampires are needing constant reassurance she’s not out for his powers, she’s also trying to work out who the Sunshine murder is and can she catch them this time? Anita did seem to be juggling quite a few emotional balls in the air as well! Did she need to be? I didn’t think so! But that’s just me ??‍♀️ 

There are a few spicy moments ? but they don’t slow us down too much (nothing as distracting when the MC’s getting carried away with page after page ?) 

I keep meaning to go to the beginning of this series, I’d love to read how far she’s come, and I’d like to know when Anita and Jean-Claude first met.

I’m also getting the feeling this was a set up for the next book! A few of the threads that could have been sorted weren’t! And I did feel the ending a little vague! 

But I did enjoy the book immensely, the author can definitely weave a tale, twenty nine books in and the character still had plenty to give. 

Will Anita and Jean-Claude get married or will the the Sunshine murderer take precedence? Will the vampires and humans get their wishes? 

I’m definitely recommending this book if your a fan of the author, and I’m suggesting if you have the time, go to the start of the series and work your way through. 

Reviewed by Julie

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

 

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Magic Tides by Ilona Andrews – a Review

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Magic Tides by Ilona Andrews – a Review

 

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Description:
Kate, Curran and their son, Conlan have left Atlanta, vowing to keep a low profile, and are settling into a new city and new house…but some things never change! Magical mayhem is about to erupt when Kate undertakes the rescue of a kidnapped youth, while Curran guards the homefront.

It should be a simple retrieval, but with monsters on land and sea, Kate’s got her work cut out for her. Still, she’s never let her blade dull or her purpose falter. And that low profile? It’s about to wash away with the raging tides!

 

 

Review:

Magic Tides by Ilona Andrews is the first book (long novella) in her Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years (World of Kate Daniels 12.5) series.  I was thrilled to find out about the return of our favorite heroine, Kate Daniels, and with more to come. 

Kate and Curran, and their son, Conlan are now living in Wilmington, having left Atlanta to keep a low profile and privacy.  Conlan is now 8 years old, but he is big for his age, and becoming very strong, as will be like his father. When his friend tells him about his brother being kidnapped, Conlan tells his mom; who will then with the boy’s father, plan to rescue the boy.  Though Kate and Curran have kept things quiet in this new town, but when Kate knows a child is being used for trafficking, nothing will keep her from saving them.

When Kate leaves with the father, Curran learns where she went from Conlan, and knows they now need to set up protection, around their land, and also bring the kidnapped boy’s family to their home, to be safe.  Especially, since once Kate stops the criminal activity, the bad guys will come for revenge attack.

Kate is always up to the challenge, as she manages to defeat the group kidnapping children.  It was so wonderful to see Kate at her magnificent self, defeating anyone who stands in her way.  Once she gets past the first stop, Kate will continue on to find out where the boy is, which will include meeting with the vampires, and then to the more difficult and intense final stop.  She must defeat a so-called sea god entity, who does terrible horrors to the children.  Kate has to use all her magic, in order to survive and save the children.

Magic Tides was a fantastic, exciting, intense story, with lots of action and magic.  I have continued to hope we would get more Kate and Curran, as well as see more of young Conlan; and my wishes have come true.  I can’t wait for more, and also get a glimpse at Hugh’s eventual return.  Magic Tides was so very well written by Ilona Andrews.  I have read every single series by Andrews, and have absolutely loved them all. If you have not read this illustrious duo (Ilona and Gordon Andrews), you need to start reading them now. 

Reviewed by Barb

Copy supplied for review.

 

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The Choice by Nora Roberts – a Review

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The Choice by Nora Roberts – a Review

 

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Description:
Talamh is a land of green hills, high mountains, deep forests, and seas, where magicks thrive. But portals allow for passage in and out–and ultimately, each must choose their place, and choose between good and evil, war and peace, life and death…

Breen Siobhan Kelly grew up in the world of Man and was once unaware of her true nature. Now she is in Talamh, trying to heal after a terrible battle and heartbreaking losses. Her grandfather, the dark god Odran, has been defeated in his attempt to rule over Talamh, and over Breen–for now.

With the enemy cast out and the portal sealed, this is a time to rest and to prepare. Breen spreads her wings and realizes a power she’s never experienced before. It’s also a time for celebrations–of her first Christmas in both Talamh and Ireland, of solstice and weddings and births–and daring to find joy again in the wake of sorrow. She rededicates herself to writing her stories, and when his duties as taoiseach permit, she is together with Keegan, who has trained her as a warrior and whom she has grown to love.

It’s Keegan who’s at her side when the enemy’s witches, traitorous and power-mad, appear to her in her sleep, practicing black magick, sacrificing the innocent, and plotting a brutal destruction for Breen. And soon, united with him and with all of Talamh, she will seek out those in desperate need of rescue, and confront the darkness with every weapon she has: her sword, her magicks–and her courage…

 

 

Review:

The Choice by Nora Roberts is the 3rd book in her fantastic,The Dragon Heart Legacy trilogy.  I loved the previous two books in this series, and could not wait to read The Choice.  Needless to say, I also loved the finale of this trilogy. Of course, this is the norm as Nora always creates such wonderful trilogies.  Refresher: Breen Siobhan Kelly grew up in the human world, unaware of her true nature, a daughter of the Fey. Her grandfather, is the evil dark god Odran, who plans to destroy the realm of Talamh, and over the last two books, Breen has suffered grief and heartbreaking losses.  She has learned everything about the realm of Talamh, filled with magic, fairies, witches, dragons, etc; she continues to train on using her magical powers, to be ready to fight the evil god, Odran and save Talamh and the Fey.

Keegan and Breen’s relationship continues to grow, though he is constantly pushing her to use more of her powers. Keegan (the Taoiseach) is always by her side when the enemy tries to kill her using black magic. The evil forces (those who have joined the evil Odran), continue to show up to kill, with some losses along the way.  Breen is determined to defeat Odran, and save all her family and friends, as well as Talamh, as she needs to be able to use every weapon & powerful magicks to confront the darkness.

I really loved Keegan and Breen together, they were so perfect for each other. I love all the wonderful secondary characters who play such a large part of this story, supporting Breen every way; such as Marco, Nan, Sedric, Morena, Harken, Aisling, Brian, Tarryn, her Dragon Lonrach, just to name a few.  I enjoyed seeing how Marco was always there for Breen, and loved all his cooking; it was nice to see him fall in love with Brian.   But most of all I loved love Bollocks, her wonderful dog, who was so much fun, and always ready to fight and protect her from evil.

Throughout the story, we get to spend time for joyous holidays and celebrations in Talamh and Ireland. Breen also continues to write her books about Bollocks, as well as a fantasy novel, which her agent will like. In between the hard training, and terrible fighting, she manages to enjoy herself with walking with Bollocks, learning from Nan, enjoying Marco’s cooking, and just the fun of being with her true family and friends.

As we race to the climax, and epic battle begins with everyone in Talamh fighting against a terrible evil, and Breen rising up to fulfill her heritage to defeat Ordan.  Will Breen Survive? 

What follows is another fantastic story, so very well done by Nora Roberts.  I love the world of Talamah, with so many wonderful secondary characters, and a fantastic heroine and hero. I will not give spoilers, as you need to read this book from start to finish, but if you have not read the previous two books, then please start with the first book, The Awakening, then to The Becoming.  I loved everything about this book, as I devoured it from start to finish. Bravo to Nora Roberts who gives us another fabulous trilogy, which is not to be missed.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

 

 

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Dead Man’s Hand by James J. Butcher -a Review

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Dead Man’s Hand by James J. Butcher -a Review

 

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Description:
On the streets of Boston, the world is divided into the ordinary Usuals, and the paranormal Unorthodox. And in the Department of Unorthodox Affairs, the Auditors are the magical elite, government-sanctioned witches with spells at their command and all the power and prestige that comes with it. Grimshaw Griswald Grimsby is…not one of those witches.

After flunking out of the Auditor training program and being dismissed as “not Department material,” Grimsby tried to resign himself to life as a mediocre witch. But he can’t help hoping he’ll somehow, someway, get another chance to prove his skill. That opportunity comes with a price when his former mentor, aka the most dangerous witch alive, is murdered down the street from where he works, and Grimsby is the Auditors’ number one suspect.

Proving his innocence will require more than a little legwork, and after forming a strange alliance with the retired legend known as the Huntsman and a mysterious being from Elsewhere, Grimsby is abruptly thrown into a life of adventure, whether he wants it or not. Now all he has to do is find the real killer, avoid the Auditors on his trail, and most importantly, stay alive.

 

 

Review:

Dead Man’s Hand by James J. Butcher is his debut novel, which is the first book in his new series, The Unorthodox Chronicles.  The Unorthodox Chronicles is a magic world, with human Usuals and paranormal Unorthodox; the Department of Unorthodox Affairs and Auditors are government magical elites, with witches who use spells to control their power.  There are two main characters who lead in this story.

Grimshaw Griswald Grimsby failed in his attempt to be an Auditor, and with his mentor now dead, Grimsby has become the prime suspect.  He works at a restaurant to make some money, using his witch abilities, until he is approached by The Huntsman (a retired assassin for the Unorthodox), who at first plans to kill him; but then Mayflower (the huntsman) realizes that Grimsby is innocent.  Despite their obvious differences, they partner to find the real culprit.

Where Mayflower, is considered a legend, who has been around forever, and is an expert in all Unorthodox and Auditor affairs; even though he is now retired, he needs to find out who killed his former mentor.  It is Grimsby who Mayflower needs to help him, with his witch abilities.  Grimsby was in many ways a coward, bumbling up many things, while Mayflower would usually save him.  I found that both main characters were not totally likeable, with Mayflower being hard and sarcastic throughout, and Grimsby totally off the wall for the most part.  Closer to the end, they managed to work well together. 

Dead Man’s Hand is a unique urban fantasy adventure, at times suspenseful; with witches that enforce the Unorthodox.  Grimsby and Mayflower are constantly thrown into chaos and danger; with Grimsby a reluctant witch, Mayflower a grumpy veteran, and mystery that has many twists and turns.   Will they survive?  Dead Man’s Hand was well written by James J. Butcher, though I did think there was too many details and redundancy.  If you like Urban Fantasy, I do suggest you give this book a try.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

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Bound by Bloodsong by Sandy Williams – a Review

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Bound by Bloodsong by Sandy Williams – a Review

 

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Description:
When Kennedy bans the werewolves from The Rain Hotel, she threatens the stability—and secrecy—of the entire paranormal world.

Tragedy forces Kennedy back to The Rain Hotel, a magic-free haven for vampires and werewolves and all things other. She might have been reluctant to return to her ancestral home, but now that she’s running things, she will use all her resources to discover who betrayed her family and why.

As the clues pile up and evil forces threaten Kennedy and her friends, three powerful individuals compete for her trust. But things aren’t what they seem, and each man has ulterior motives. She’ll need to build strong walls against their magic and manipulations, and she’ll especially need to be cautious around one charismatic werewolf who seems determined to tempt her into his bed.

Can Kennedy unravel the mystery and find her place in the paranormal world? Or will her decisions lead to The Rain’s destruction and the loss of innocent lives?

 

 

Review:

Bound by Bloodsong by Sandy Williams is the 2nd book in her wonderful Kennedy Rain series.  Refresher: Kennedy Rain, our heroine, returned home to her family’s unique Rain Hotel, to run it while her parents were on vacation. With the death of her parents, she is now in sole control of the hotel. What makes the Rain Hotel unique?   The hotel is a null zone for paranormals, with a treaty that has been in effect for hundreds of years; a place to recover, be at peace, or just time to relax with no pressure; a werewolf can avoid the full moon or a vampire can see the sun, or recover from an injury. The Werewolves and Vampires, plus some other unknow species take turns to come and stay at the hotel. 

Kennedy is determined to find out who killed her parents, and bans both werewolves and vampires from the hotel, at last until she can find who betrayed her family. At first, Kennedy feels the werewolves are behind the murder, but things change when an evil enemy becomes a major threat.  Kennedy is also determined to keep her human friends safe, as they never knew about the hotel. She’ll need to build strong walls against their magic and manipulations.

I liked Kennedy, who was a great heroine, though I thought she was a bit unreasonable at times.   Blake, the second in command, for the werewolves was a hunk, who truly liked Kennedy, and I expect a possible romance in future books; but she never allowed herself to succumb to his advances. It was nice to see Nora (werewolf) and Jared (vampire) again, with the leaders of the werewolf/vampires determined not to allow them to marry.  Kennedy learns her family was trying to help Astrid, a lone and ancient witch, who was Kennedy’s friend, and soon suspicions arise about a major coven trying to force Astrid to their group.

What follows is a wonderful fun, tense and exciting story, with Kennedy in the middle of it all.  There is a dark enemy out there who will stop at nothing to sabotage the treaty, including causing her harm, and she has no idea who to trust. But as we race to the climax, we learn more about the powerful coven, who want to destroy everything.  Kennedy must come up with a plan to stop the enemy, keep the hotel safe, and get magical friends to help her.  Can she survive?

I do not want to say too much more, as it would spoil things, since you do need to read this book from start to finish.  Bound by Bloodsong was an excellent addition to this series, which was very well written by Sandy Williams.  I for one cannot wait for the next book.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy supplied for review

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