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Five Book Friday: In Memoriam
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Every year, the booksellers at Powell’s submit their Top Fives: their five favorite books that were released in 2023. It’s a list that, when put together, shows just how varied and interesting the book tastes of Powell’s booksellers are. I highly recommend digging into the recommendations — we would never lead you astray — but today...
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Customer Comments
Michelle Olson has commented on (156) products
Witches with the Enemy Mist Torn Witches Book 3
by
Barb Hendee
Michelle Olson
, May 25, 2015
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review... Witches with the Enemy is the 3rd installment in Barb Hendee's Mist-Torn Witches series and this was my favorite of the series so far. Like all Hendee books, Witches With the Enemy was engaging, entertaining, and well written, all revolving around two super strong heroines that you can't help but love. Celine and Amelie assist Prince Anton in solving mysteries in the realm, specifically those surrounding his wicked brother Prince Damek. In this installment, the ladies join Prince Anton in Damek's territory and tensions run high. Book #3 continues our flirty relationship between Celine and Anton. You see how much he cares for Celine and how much she longs for him, but theirs is not a relationship that can be because she is not noble, and he could potentially be High Prince some day. There is also continued flirtations between Amelia and Jaromir, which I have been rooting for the entire time. With all of that said, however, I wouldn't classify the Mist-Torn witch series as paranormal romance. It's fantasy, and a fantastic one at that. If you're looking for a suspensful fantasy mystery, then Mist-Torn is a wonderful series to pick up. I highly recommend it! In a similiar world as the Hendees' Noble Dead saga, the world is utterly fascinating and Barb knows how to write some incredible characters, especially kicka$$ heroines. While I do believe that Witches With the Enemy could stand on its own, as a fan and reader I suggest starting with Mist-Torn Witches, book #1, and enjoying the journey the sisters have taken so far to fully enjoy the series. In short, my favorite of the series so far. The character development in this one was wonderful to read, and as always, Barb spins a beautiful tale of intrigue.
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Swerve
by
Vicki Pettersson
Michelle Olson
, May 24, 2015
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Vicki Pettersson is one of my favorite authors, her fantasy romance is amazing, but she knocked it out of the park with Swerve, 5 skulls is not nearly enough for this epic thrill-ride. In the vein of Dean Koontz with a little Deaver thrown in for good measure, Pettersson takes us on an action-packed rollercoaster ride of action, suspense, and drama, delving into the twisted miasma of the human psyche and the overwhelming darkness living and breeding within for some. Carefully planned and brilliantly executed character development, story arc, and captivating prose lend to a beautifully rendered--and highly disturbing--action thriller that was instantly shelved as a re-read for me. I will admit that I guessed the whodunit before it was revealed (probably because these books are my favorites and I read tons of them), but I don't think most will, and despite having a gut feeling about who it was, the WHYs behind it.. Completely shocked, surprised and unnerved me (and as a horror/thriller aficionado, that is very difficult to do). This book will stick with me for a very long while--something that hasn't happened in quite some time despite the copious amounts of reading I do--and I would HIGHLY recommend it to psychological horror and thriller lovers far and wide. If you like movies like SAW or The Collector, and love those deep, disturbing, and action-packed tales by authors such as Dean Koontz, John Saul, Jeffery Deaver, and James Patterson, I think you will really enjoy Swerve.
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Grave Phantoms
by
Jenn Bennett
Michelle Olson
, May 05, 2015
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review This is the third book in the Roaring Twenties series and returns to the antics of the Magnusson family. This time, it's the youngest member of the family Astrid and although she's a rich and pampered young woman she hasn't got the one thing she really wants, Bo Yeung! Bo is almost like an adopted son to Astrids older brother Winter and helps him run his very successful bootlegging business, but at a time when mixed relations were taboo the yearning they share seems doomed before it's even begun. Astrid's home from college when a storm sees a yacht crashing upon the pier the Magnussons use. What stumbles from the boat are a group who has been missing at sea for a year! Astrid and Bo manage to wrangle their way on board, but when Astrid touches a small sculpture her world quite literally turns on its head as she starts having terrifying visions. Something truly evil happened on that yacht, and now it looks as if Astrid is in danger. There's nothing Bo won't do to protect her but it looks as if the storm is far from over! This couple are both quite young and it's a sweet romance that just builds up. Astrid is such a beguiling character and so full of life with a vibrant personality that has poor Bo truly out of his depth. I really liked Bo too as he's resourceful and brave but in San Francisco in the 1920's a Chinese man and a white woman would raise more than a few eyebrows. The dreams they share are more than just frowned upon they are illegal which leaves the author with quite a dilemma but you know what they say " where there's a will there's a way"! What seems like a hopeless forbidden romance with Ms Bennett at the helm takes on a whole new lease of life. An amazing balance of romance with a mysterious paranormal story. It's possibly not the best plot in this series as it takes a while for answers to be forthcoming and if I'm really honest I still felt I wanted a tiny bit more but I was engrossed right up until the last page. The story brought home to me how difficult life was for many just what's a relatively short time ago and prejudice is no laughing matter. What really works though is the fact that it's a character driven story and as usual this author delivers a fun steamy read that had me gripped.
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Cat's Lair
by
Christine Feehan
Michelle Olson
, May 05, 2015
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review A welcome return by this author to her world peopled by Leopard shifters. In this book we meet Catarina, who was sold by her own mother to Rafe a deadly criminal who kept her imprisoned and isolated. Catarina saw him commit heinous crimes and has finally managed to escape, but realizes that Rafe will be looking for her as he's not a man who likes to look a fool. Cat has made a new life for herself working as a barrister, but always looking over her shoulder and never feeling truly safe. Cat takes self defense classes at the local Dojo in an effort to survive her possible recapture and that's where she first sees Ridley. Gorgeous, protective and quite sweet, but is he all he seems? The friendship they share is important to the lonely Cat but she's not the only one with secrets and her past is about to come running full tilt back into her life! Has she been betrayed? If so, just who or what is Ridley? This is one of my favorite series by this author as she just keeps it fresh and moving forward. We have been treated to hot steamy jungle tales and even transported to the Bayou but this time it's back to Texas for action and lots of passion. Fans of this series will remember Burning Wild, which featured Jake Bannaconni and delight in catching up with him and his family. I feel this is a similar style to that book as it's seriously a scorching read with lots of those descriptive scenes that border on erotica so maybe not for everyone. The hero is beyond possessive and quite tyrannical at times if honest, but our heroine Cat has claws of her own and just might know how to use them! This is vintage Ms Feehan with over the top characters and lots and lots of scenes involving a dominating and very controlling male lead. The relationship the couple develops is intense and would stifle many, but these are possessve violent cats prove to be irresistible. Sexy, violent and above all engrossing, a great read for open-minded paranormal lovers.
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The Silver Witch
by
Paula Brackston
Michelle Olson
, April 21, 2015
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION'S Pack Alpha - Chelle: --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls The Silver Witch is a beautifully written Celtic fantasy with dual points of view. At first, the changing POV and tense tripped me up slightly, but as I got into the next two switching chapters I realized how fabulous that storytelling method could be. The book, taking place in both present and far past with interweaving storylines, was - pardon the pun - bewitching and magickal. We get to travel the road of Tilda, a modern-day artist overcoming the trials of her differentness and the weight of her grief at the loss of her husband as she desperately tries to build a new life in this beautiful, remote part of Wales. As well as Seren - witch, seer, and shaman to Prince Brynach, as she loses herself to the love that they come to share despite the problems it causes, and tries to keep him safe from the dangers that abound - both within and without of those closest to them. After we're introduced and immersed in both of their exciting journeys, we get to watch as their paths cross when circumstances bring them together through time and space, providing a tale rife with history (I found out that the setting of the book is one near and dear to the author's heart), growth, rebirth, triumph, love, and intrigue. The Silver Witch was another winner by Ms. Brackston, and I am so very happy that I was given the opportunity to read it. I am coming to absolutely love these stories, and look forward to each new one that she puts out. I highly recommend all of Ms. Brackston's work, but The Silver Witch is perfect for those looking for a fantasy romance steeped in history (though I cannot say one way or the other if the events referenced are actually factual) with two tales of finding love despite adverse circumstances, all tied together with a beautiful magickal bow. *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review
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Dark Heir
by
Faith Hunter
Michelle Olson
, March 25, 2015
Our review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Faith Hunter’s Dark Heir, the ninth book in the Jane Yellowrock series, continues the thrill-ride that was established when we first met Jane. When the ancient vampire witch known as the Son Of Darkness escapes from Leo’s dungeon, no one is safe. Not humans. Not the Mithrans. No one. And when the body count begins to rise, Jane has to find a way to stop a monster who seems invincible. Oh, and the Big Bad has a personal grudge against Jane. With the help of Beast, her partners Eli and Alex, friends, allies and semi-allies, an injured Jane goes on the hunt for what could be her final hunt. Dark Heir starts out fast and furious, and maintains full velocity throughout. I love that each book in this series doles out a little more information regarding what makes Jane... Jane. The relationship between Jane and Beast continues to grow and well as her relationships with other characters. Dark Heir gets 5 skulls and two thumbs up!
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Things Half in Shadow
by
Alan Finn
Michelle Olson
, March 02, 2015
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review I utterly enjoyed this book! From the smooth prose that felt like you were sitting down with your best friend to hear a captivating tale, to the setting, time period & characters that drew me in completely, to the story within a story within story that had me chuckling & wondering & waiting for the end, I looked forward to picking this up again and again each time I was forced to set it down. Things Half in Shadow is told in first person as a kind of memoir. The protagonist, Edward, is retelling his adventures to his granddaughter, and spins the tale of what happened when he was asked by his editor to investigate the mediums in Philadelphia and uncover the truth to the newspaper's readers. With the help of an unlikely ally, Lucy Collins (a character I completely adored!), Edward is thrown into a plot full of murder, mystery, subterfuge, secrets, lies, and folly. The complex web that Mr. Finn wove with regards to the arc was utterly captivating, and I chuckled, gasped, shook my head and anxiously awaited each new reveal. I honestly wasn't sure what to expect with Things Half in Shadow. After all, I'm usually an urban fantasy and paranormal romance reader, and this was pitched as a historical with subtle paranormal elements, but I absolutely loved it, would highly recommend it, and will happily venture back into Mr. Finn's imagination again soon.
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Deadly Obsession
by
Maggie Shayne
Michelle Olson
, November 24, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review If you haven't had a chance to devour the Brown & de Luca books yet, I cannot recommend them strongly enough. I will say right off, however, that Deadly Obsession should not be read as a standalone novel. You really need to read the series in order to truly appreciate the arc of the story and the nuances of the characters. And speaking of characters, Rachel de Luca is easily, hands down, one of my absolute favorite heroines of all time (and I read A LOT). :) It's going to be tough for me to write a review for this book without spoilers, because so much as happened within the series to lead the reader to Deadly Obsession, and so much happens within the book that cannot be easily relayed without spoilers. So I'll do my best to give you an idea of the fantastic nature of this book in a vague enough way that I don't ruin it for you... Detective Mason Brown and New Age Author guru Rachel DeLuca have been through a lot. Murders, mystery, kidnappings, instal-chemistry, fighting their feelings, and more. Their relationship is at a high point in Deadly Obsession though, and they FINALLY realize the depth of their feelings. Rachel's still fighting it, after all, it's in her nature to do so, but Mason has given in and to see them slide comfortably into that is a beautiful thing after wanting to smack each of them in previous books. As per usual, there's plenty of murder, mayhem, thrills and chills and mystery in Deadly Obsession. This time, it's a bit of an homage to Fatal Attraction, but even better. Rachel's heightened sixth-sense is on high alert from the get go, but she's not entirely sure she can trust what she's feeling, and a series of events force Mason, Rachel and those closest to them to realize that life and time are precious, and good things should be grabbed with two hands and held on to for dear life. Like I mentioned it's very hard to say more without ruining any of it. Let me just say that the entire Brown & de Luca series is fantastic - a wickedly funny, action-packed, dangerous, mysterious, beautifully plotted, well-written and slightly romantic thrill-ride that will have you glued to the pages of each and every installment. Deadly Obsession was the perfect conclusion to the series, and I highly recommend it and its predecessors to everyone!
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Bloodbound
by
Erin Lindsey
Michelle Olson
, September 15, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 3.5 Skulls This was interesting. A strong female lead, fantasy not quite epic but not urban either, a bit of alchemy and mind control to keep things interesting, and yes... a love triangle. Maybe my only 'dislike', though it was done well, was not angst filled and led to the credibility and conflict of the story. Ms. Lindsey does a great job of telling a story of a daughter to one of the Banner houses taking the independent route and forging her own way in history while learning about herself and those she holds most dear at the same time. It's not a totally unique tale - we've read the whole King being betrayed by his brother before - but the tale is simply and beautifully told, and has just enough romance and magic to round things out. I would have liked to have learned more about the blood-binding, the magic that is used to tie the warriors to their weapons, but I believe that this is the first of a new series and am hoping that Ms. Lindsey will go into further detail with maybe some history in later installments.
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Broken Soul: Jane Yellowrock Book 8
by
Faith Hunter
Michelle Olson
, August 22, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review If Mount Rushmore was the carved faces of the top Urban Fantasy writers, Faith Hunter’s likeness would be front and center. Her latest offering in the Jane Yellowrock series, Broken Soul, is without a doubt one of the best books that I’ve read this year. Broken Soul finds Jane dealing with final security preparations for the European delegation’s unwanted visit to Leo’s territory. And if there is one thing that Jane knows, it is that when it involves vampires, nothing can be left to chance. Vampire politics are always brutal and bloody. And on top of the everything, something is stalking Jane. Something that is supposedly just a myth. Broken Soul, as with all the previous books in this series, reveals a little more about Jane’s and Beast’s past. Faith Hunter is a master at moving a story line along. Each book lays down a layer upon which the next book is built. Broken Soul is dark, intense, and everything that I personally find compelling in a top notch read. Jane Yellowrock is a heroine who realizes that while she might not have all the answers, she will do whatever is necessary to protect those around her.
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Keep Me Closer
by
Rhyannon Byrd
Michelle Olson
, August 22, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Scholastic Siren - Sara: --Actual Rating 3.5 Skulls Brit Cramer has a stalker, he is a former patient of hers. He is an abuse victim, and his story is horrific. He thinks Britt can cleanse him of his past. Alex Hudson is hired by his brother to protect Britt. His brother thinks they would be perfect together and is hoping for more than protection to come of this assignment. This book is well written and fast-paced. I really like the two characters, but I don't like that they are the only two characters until very late in the story. There are some side characters, but they don't really come on scene much. Even the "bad guy" is only around through his deeds and a few calls. If the romance is more important than the suspense, this book is for you. If you like a good thriller, you might like this book. If you're looking for a mystery, I can't recommend it.
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Dark Blood: A Carpathian Novel: Carpathian 26
by
Christine Feehan
Michelle Olson
, August 22, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review This is a really hard review to write and I had to sit and think before I started this. I have been a fan of Christine Feehan since I found her books some years ago and her Dark series is without doubt her best but there have been times when I wanted something a bit different. Her books have been an integral part of my reading life and have provided much fun and Ms Feehan has a unique writing style and the depth at which she writes is truly astounding. Her research and background information amazes this reader but sometimes it can seem to be a little excessive when all I want is to just enjoy the story. That having being said this the final book in her Lycan trilogy is a wonderful mixture of old and new with cameos from previous book heroes and an unusual enemy to face. Zev very nearly saw his last moon and would certainly have lost his life had it not been for Branislava , a female dragon seeker who fought to connect their spirits in order to save Zev. Now, Zev is grateful to be alive but he does not want the beautiful Branislava to feel forced into being his life mate . Zev had not realised he was part Carpathian and has spent his life protecting his fellow Lycans but it's clear that in order to defeat their mutual enemy they will now have to work together. The Jaguar shifters have almost been eradicated and the Carpathians and Lycans are being targeted. How can two such different species work together when there is no trust. Zev needs to choose a side but he is a man divided but of one thing he is certain no one will harm Branislava whilst he still breathes! She is everything he wants in a mate and together they can conquer anything or can they? I will admit I had reservations about reading this book as the Carpathian men have frequently been very domineering towards their females in some books, Dark Predator and Dark Possession come to my mind and if those characters could be so aggressive then how much more so would an alpha Lycan be? Zev is without doubt very much his own man and fully capable of leading his own pack if he wanted to so the idea of a true beast gave me pause. Yes he is very strong and demands obedience but this author has cleverly made him compassionate with depths that he is not afraid to reveal. A much more rounded out character then I had expected and a man any woman would be proud of. As for the lucky woman Branislava may be Carpathian but she is also part Mage and I think it's fair to say that her magical abilities are truly tested during this story and it's wonderful to see the heroine taking such an active role . I loved that the author allows Branislava to show all the arrogant Carpathian men just what she is capable of and indeed Zevs new "brothers" equally seem to respect their own women. These Carpathian men are finally seeing that they have warrior women in their lives and not every woman should be hidden away and protected. As this is Ms Feehan then expect strong sexual content and yes it's frequent but happily it's not the usual cave and mineral pools that seem to frequently crop up in these books. No, this time there's definitely a strong spark between the two lovers and the author lets her imagination run riot! Hot,hot hot! I enjoyed the story and it was great to read about the characters from previous books which almost made it an ensemble piece at times! Humorous interactions abound between the normally quite taciturn Carpathian's which added to the fun, What I particularly enjoyed was seeing the younger generation come into their own and it's clear we shall be seeing a lot more of them. The Carpathian struggle to survive is far from over though as this new enemy they face is truly evil and capable of even more dastardly deeds then anyone can imagine. I am so glad that the series has not run out of steam as like many readers I realisz how hard it is to create fresh ideas and can happily say that the story was not bogged down by excessive chanting which sometimes slows down the proceedings . Dedicated fans will certainly enjoy this but it's not really ideal for a new reader. I would suggest going back to the beginning with Dark Prince and following the journey of this truly gifted race.
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Ghost Layer
by
Robin D. Owens
Michelle Olson
, August 22, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 3.5 Skulls This is the second book in the Ghost Seer series that features a young woman who inherits the ability to see ghosts but is having a hard time coming to terms with all that's happening in her life. When Clare's great aunt died and the "gift" passed to Clare she also inherited wealth and a very unusual canine companion! Enzo is a ghostly Labrador whose purpose is to guide Claire with her unusual ability. Still reeling from all the changes in her life Claire has discovered that it's only the ghosts of a certain time period that she can help but that does not mean that her life is straightforward, no not at all! In the short time that Claire has had to get used to things she has met Zach, a private detective who himself is experiencing changes in his life. Wounded and forced to retire from his work in law enforcement he struggles with the effects of his injury but there's nothing like holding a good woman in your arms to make a man be glad to be alive and for Zach holding Clare feels like heaven right here on earth! It's early days for them both as a couple but Zach's boss offers Clare a job solving the mystery of bones appearing at an old mining town . The locals are understandably afraid but when Clare tracks down the ghost of the dead prospector and he tells her he was murdered then it's time for Clare and Zach to investigate but someone does not want the mystery solved and are prepared to commit murder to keep their secret! This had quite a straightforward plot but it sure does meander along. The mystery of the dead man and why he is haunting is only part of this book. We also have the relationship between Clare and Zach to wade through. Clare is hard to read at times as she is quite an independent thinking sort and yet at times very reliant on Zach. It's not been easy for her and she is very protective of others in her family who might also have the ability to see ghosts but at times I just found her well, a little cold. Oh she's full of life and passion but I didn't really connect with her. Zach is a character who for this reader felt more well rounded. He has accepted his limitations caused by his injury but refuses to just sit back and vegetate. I liked that he is determined to overcome his disability and challenge himself learning new martial arts and it's wonderful to see him reclaiming his life. He carries the pain of loss and although clearly is sensitive to things that others might not believe, Zach fights hard to subdue his own psychic abilities. A sane rational guy but also one who believes completely in Clare. I found this to be quite slow paced if I am honest but sometimes with urban fantasy I've noticed that series can start quite slow and then build up to something amazing. I am enjoying this series with its mixture of supernatural and romance and the mystery elements do get me trying to work out just who the villain is and why they are up to no good. This book gives some answers but new questions are now arising. Zach is about to be more front and centre I feel as this story arc progresses. Clare has relied on him but it looks as if Zach and Clare will go forward together in more ways than one. I'm loving the ghost aspect, Enzo is a star and the human dynamics are certainly interesting and I'm very curious to learn just what the author plans for this couple next.
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Love Bites
by
Angela Knight
Michelle Olson
, August 22, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review I confess to loving the books by this author that are set in her Magaverse world and was so pleased that this anthology includes a full length story from there. This book also contains two very short stories as well and they have something in common, fangs and dominant men! These stories are hot and peppered with kinky sex, bondage and of course blood! Entertaining to read but not for those who only want a sweet romance as this book should come with a heat warning! The first story "Oath of Service" features Morgana Le Fay, a witch who serves Arthur and his knights but she is a constant thorn in everyone's side. Indeed throughout the Magaverse series Morgana has been a character full of shades and she has always had her secrets . In this story we learn more of her past and some of the reasons for her harsh manipulative ways come to light. Morgana has always known that her feelings for Sir Percival could bring her to her knees but she's about to discover things about herself that she has never anticipated! Percival is a dominant male with fierce appetites and to have the tasty Morgana under his control is a heady rush that he cannot resist. The second was a very short story "Be Careful What You Wish For" and features a trio of vampires who set out to rescue a damsel in distress but unfortunately there's an evil wizard at work and he plays dirty! As this is very short I cannot really give much away but I will say it continues with the sexy vampire theme that runs throughout this book and unfortunately for this reader was the weakest offering. It's quite an abrupt beginning and I personally didn't really connect with any of the characters but given the length that's not surprising. The final short story is " The Bloodslave" a futuristic piece that has three vampires getting their hands on a human female. These hungry (in so many ways!) males cannot believe their luck when they find the virgin human Verica alone and so very far from home . She's their captive but is she about to turn the tables on them? I really enjoyed this story as it's got my favourite kind of hero, strong sexy definitely alpha and yet open to new possibilities. Although a novella there's insight into the characters which really helps hold the readers attention. Loved it! Angela Knight is one of the most consistent authors around. Her books are plot driven with twists that leave her readers gasping. This book scorches with her own unique brand of sensuality although those readers who do not enjoy the more kinky aspects of BDSM may find this not their particular cup of tea! It's quite mild so please don't be put off and remember it's just an excuse to wallow in the fantasy of those lovely dominant men! Hot is a word too often used I feel, combustible seems more fitting! A must read for Angela Knight fans and a sneak peak at the end of her next book! Fabulous stuff!
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Shatter
by
Erin McCarthy
Michelle Olson
, August 22, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Wow! This is the fourth instalment of the True Believers series by this popular author and I think she has certainly surpassed all my expectations with this book. This series about new adults just keeps getting better with each book and it's lovely the way the friends each find happiness even if at first it looks as if all is hopeless. From pathos to passion, despair to hope, this book brings a wealth of emotions and at times it's startling just how much feeling the author imbues into her words . This story has everything you want in a romance but so much more as it's truly a coming of age story. Ms McCarthy has done a fabulous job and it would be an insane reader who did not pick up this book. Kylie has always met life head on and has never really struggled but finding out her boyfriend cheated on her with one of her closest friends has quite simply ripped her apart. Kylie doesn't believe that she could feel any worse and when this story starts she is very much a victim. Kylie is by nature happy go lucky, confident and social but the recent events in her life have left her broken and it feels as if everything is just slipping away. Needing to get her grades back up she arranges to meet with a tutor but Jonathan is such an unexpected find. First off he's probably the cutest geek Kylie has ever seen and then there is the fact that he seems like a genuinely nice guy! They just seem to click on so many levels and one thing leads to another and what do you know Kylie has one night of truly amazing sex with Jonathan but realises that she probably won't ever see him again. Wrong! Jonathan has his life all mapped out and he's more than just a student he's a really bright chemistry one with an amazing future ahead of him. Oh he realises that he's not exactly what every woman fantasises about but his one night of passion with the bubbly Kylie has left him questioning things. When Kylie reappears some weeks later and tells him that she's having his baby the bottom simply falls out of his world! To say he is astounded is too little, too simplistic,what Jonathan feels is a need so deep to be there for Kylie and their child that it's something he feels soul deep. Jonathan's own father was never interested in him but Jonathan is determined to be a better man . Luckily Kylie is a warm hearted woman who wants to give their child as much love and stability as Jonathan does and they try to work together at being the best parents they can possibly be. Life is full of unexpected things and an unplanned baby is probably the biggest shock that anyone can face. Kylie might be young but she's full of maternal instincts but her attraction to Jonathan worries her. Can they ever make a go of things really? If they try will it end up with them hating each other? Jonathan seems to want Kylie but she is unsure if it's just his guilt that plagues him. He is without doubt a very mature and sensitive guy but pregnancy can bring many challenges and this young couple are about to discover just how hard life can really get! I loved this story and even though it's probably not aimed at someone of my age a great story will always have me hooked. At the beginning we see Kylie as a victim but as we reach the conclusion her growth as a woman is a beautiful thing to read. Kylie was always an optimistic live wire throughout this series and indeed at times has seemed quite shallow but she has inner depths that truly shine and it's great to see her feelings of self worth grow. This book is titled Shatter but could equally be called Strength! Kylie is so very strong and as a woman I just want to hug her! The sexy ( and very giving!) Jonathan is just too perfect and at times I wasn't quite convinced but he won me over and his devotion to Kylie and their Celldividing Zygote was heartwarming! I mean come on ,how many guys google the ins and outs of pregnancy from blood production to lactating breasts and everything in between! Jonathan really reads as if he is a scientist with a thirst for knowledge and I applaud the author for all the detail that has gone into his character.. This story could have gone in so many different directions but I have to admit that the end was a little surprising. If you want to read about love and all the complexities associated with it then this book will blow your mind. I adored this couple and as I read recently that the author intended four books in this series I am a little sad to say goodbye to all these characters but for me Ms McCarthy has definately saved the best for last!
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Nights Honor
by
Thea Harrison
Michelle Olson
, August 22, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review This is the seventh full length book in the Elder Races series and it's a series that I love! These books feature various types of creatures from Wyr who naturally can have both an animal and a human form, to Fae - both light and Dark - we even get to meet powerful Djinn, but perhaps the most complicated of all would be those said to have had the Serpent's Kiss, and most commonly referred to as Vampyre! These feared and unnatural creatures are created not born, however they start Vampyres will do whatever is necessary to survive! Tess is on the run and there's no place to hide. She needs the sort of protection that only a truly powerful member of the Elder Races could offer but although down she's not out! Tess has a plan, become an attendant of a Vampyre and maybe just maybe the threat of starting an all out war to get at her will save her life. Vampyres gather once a year to choose new servants and Tess wangles her way in but she wasn't prepared to be chosen by the monster known as Xavier del Torro! He is the right hand man of his king and his fearsome reputation for violence is legend but for some reason he offers her a position within his home and it's a chance for safety that Tess cannot turn down. Xavier is master in his own home and bows down to none but there's something about the human Tess that intrigues him. Tess is clearly terrified to be near him so why would she choose to offer herself as an attendant? She is intelligent and capable so why would she want to hide from the world? Xavier has no qualms in taking her in but what he won't do is take her at face value , oh no if Tess has a secret then Xavier will find out what it is! Tess might have run towards one monster but if that's the case just what is following her? Maybe she is out of the frying pan and into the fire! When you pick up an Elder Races book as a reader you expect action and romance, but this story has a different feel to it. It's not as action packed as some but focuses more on a journey of self discovery. The heroine Tess is strong and capable and oh so brave when she faces Xavier, the Vampyre she offers her blood to but hers is a complicated life. I really liked her as a heroine and thought her both plucky and quite bold but I wasn't convinced that her plan actually made sense. Hiding within the household of one of the most prominent Vampyres would surely get her noticed! Luckily Xavier's plans for her meant she was kept secreted away which allowed her character to develop and gain insight. Xavier was a complete revelation as previously he has been portrayed as a character that not many would find pleasant! In this story we see a side to him that surprises the reader, he is a man of great depth and nothing seems to faze him. His checkered history is explored but most surprising is his humanity . This is a vampyre with a soul who actually cares and his level of sensitivity was astonishing to read. He's not the usual tall dark brooding muscle bound hero, no he is only slightly above average in form and yet his presence is such that he dominates and fills the space he inhabits. Clearly a man of action but wily enough to know how to use words . Yes he is impressive! I realize some readers might be disappointed that a Vampyre was the hero in this story and the heroine Tess seems to come out of nowhere but that's what I enjoy about this author's work . Expect the unexpected with Ms Harrison and enjoy the ride because no matter what these larger than life colourful characters will delight and enthral you.
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Haunted
by
Kay Hooper
Michelle Olson
, August 22, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Haunted is book 15 of the BISHOP/SPECIAL CRIMES UNIT series and has an incredible premise: A division of the FBI made up of agents and consultants that happens to have preternatural abilities and handle all of these 'extraordinary' cases that the regular Bureau won't take on. In Haunted, small town Sheriff Trinity Nichols is hunting for a serial killer going after members of The Group, people who went to school together, ended up back in Sociable, and still remain friends. Working with SCU Special Agent Hollis Templeton - Medium, S.A Reese DeMarco - Telepath, and SA Deacon James - Empath, along with her extraordinary dog Braden, they strive to catch this psycho who is brutally murdering people of Sociable and leaving behind an interesting calling card. I wanted to love this book. I really, really did. But I just didn't. I can only assume it's because this is my first book of this series and I haven't read and enjoyed the previous 14 installments, thus getting to know (and love I'm sure) the characters and the world. It was well written, the characters were likable (I love Braden!), the mystery was intense and while slow building, left me satisfied, and it was a nicely detailed plot with multiple levels and mysteries with just enough darkness to keep my interest. I just personally didn't feel connected to the leading characters or the story, and once again, can only assume it's because I was just meeting them and trying to get caught up. For fans of the BISHOP series, I think you will love this book. For new readers, if you don't feel like you need a deep connection inducing book, you will probably really like this. It successfully meshes elements of thriller, paranormal, suspense and mystery. Given the way I felt about it though, I would suggest reading the series from the beginning to fully appreciate what the author has produced here. I am a fan of Kay Hooper, and hope that I have a chance to get caught up with the SPU team in the not too distant future.
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Maplecroft The Borden Dispatches
by
Cherie Priest
Michelle Olson
, August 14, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review Fantastically unique and utterly intriguing, Maplecroft took a true crime story that I always found fascinating and turned it on its head to be an exciting slightly historical 'urban' fantasy with a compelling mystery thread. It was beautifully written, as well. Ms. Priest has a wonderfully lyrical quality to her writing, and while it wasn't quite poetic, it was smooth as silk and when writing from each of her characters' POVs you couldn't help but feel like you were in the room with them. I particularly liked the way the author told the story as a series of diary/journal/correspondence entries by the different characters, all overlapping, and all flowing together to create the beautiful tapestry of the mystery. It also allowed the reader to formulate their own conclusions about not only the mystery, but the supernatural fantasy woven within. I enjoyed Maplercroft much more than I actually expected to, and I'm very curious to see what's next in the Borden Dispatches! Definitely recommended for mystery/urban fantasy readers looking for something fresh and compelling.
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Who Was Dracula Bram Stokers Trail of Blood
by
Jim Steinmeyer
Michelle Olson
, August 14, 2014
Our Review, but LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC provided by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review Jim Steinmeyer's Who Was Dracula is a delightful pastiche of research & knowledge intertwined with captivating literary allocution. The fact behind the fiction reveals the complicated social web among the Victorian elite at the time of the novel - both famous and infamous - and shows that the brilliance behind the novel is the fact that there was no brilliance behind the novel. I loved the factual story woven by Steinmeyer, & truly felt that both my book addict/paranormal junkie side, as well as my inner nerd were properly titillated. Reading the book immediately made me go back & skim the Classic again, do a ton of Google searches to get more caught up with the primary players mentioned throughout the book, and rewatch the 1931 Bela Lugosi production of the film, all of which reminded me why the delicate simplicity of the horror from that time is still king. Steinmeyer's tale can be summed up best by the brilliant last line of the book - "A truly great nightmare is once experienced, never forgotten. It is summoned again when we simply close our eyes. It needs nothing but imagination.it is never very far away." LITERAL ADDICTION gives Who Was Dracula 5 Skulls. I was thrilled!
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Honor's Price
by
Alexis Morgan
Michelle Olson
, August 05, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Another wonderful installment in the Warriors of the Mist series and an ending perfect for all of those HEA seekers. 5 Warriors, pledged to the Lord and Lady of the River to fight for those in need. They have been battling the Duke of Agathia for some time as he takes over the land and suffuses it with his dark blood magic. Split apart, two try to fight from within, while the others protect the one who called them from without. Kane was born with dark mage blood but he has never nurtured his 'gift'. His grandfather gave him the mage mark while he was still in the womb, and this, along with his stellar warrior skills allow him to be drafted into the Duke's inner guard. I loved his character. He's chivalrous, has some pretty serious inner demons that he battles, but is loyal and steadfast in his honorable quest, as well. When he finds lady Theda, it's wonderful to see his walls fall and his heart open. Theda is a great heroine. She's been through hell and back, and yet she keeps fighting. Not so much for herself, but for those she loves. She's determined, smart, strong and willful, and she's not afraid to go after what she wants. In this case, what she ends up wanting is Kane, and their romance grows sweetly at first and then burns with a fire hard to ignore. I've really enjoyed this series since book #1, and seeing everything come full circle was utterly enjoyable. I think this is the last book of the series, but Alexis did some things with some 'extra' characters that I can see turning into some novellas or a spin off possibly in the future. I would highly recommend the WARRIORS OF THE MIST series, and while the books can be read easily as stand-alones, I would suggest reading them in order, especially with the extra surprises in Honor's Price that answer some questions and link all of the characters from all 3 books together beautifully. If you're looking for a sweet historical fantasy romance with captivating characters, a robust story arc, and enough action and intrigue to keep you wanting more, pick these up. :)
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Innocent Prey
by
Maggie Shayne
Michelle Olson
, August 05, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Another incredible installment of the BROWN & DE LUCA series! I utterly adore this series, and I think that this installment was my favorite yet. The arc is getting so much broader, the characters so much deeper, the story so much more thrilling and sweet. When a murder mystery thriller can make you laugh out loud, gasp, shake your head and grin with delight, you know you've found a keeper. :) Fans of the series will be both frustrated and relieved at the romance between Rachel and Mason in Innocent Prey. As usual, they dance around the way they're feeling, but it's so obvious, and both know it, and while you want to slap them to wake up and just admit things already, it's also fun to see them fully realize things towards the end. As usual, the murder mystery is stellar. In an attempt to find a missing blind girl, Rachel and Mason team up to find her and other missing girls and thwart what ends up being a very big, very deep, and very dark operation and cover-up. Rachel's character is finally coming to terms with how special she truly is, and there's a nice preternatural feel to things, as well. Add in Rachel's wit and snark in her Nancy Drewesque amateur sleuthing, and you get many a moment where you will laugh out loud, rail incessantly, and cheer exuberantly. Bottom line, this is an incredible romantic suspense read with upper echelon writing, characters you will absolutely adore, dialogue you will want to quote long after the book is finished, and a story arc that will leave you wanting more immediately. Good thing book #4 isn't too far away... Highly recommended!!
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Fireborn
by
Keri Arthur
Michelle Olson
, July 19, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls Fireborn kicks off a new UF series for the wonderful Keri Arthur, and it was so very Keri. :) What do I mean by that? If you're a diehard fan of Keri's series like I am, you'll find another strong, independent heroine that needs sex to survive, romance partners that aren't quite fated to be but work so very well, action aplenty, plot twists that surprise, world building that shows incredible promise to grow, and a character cast that you can't help but love. But while Fireborn had all of the things that I adore in a Keri Arthur book, it also had a new and interesting mythos - the Phoenix - which are cursed, an apocalyptic-type conflict in the form of a immortality virus gone horribly wrong, numerous 'big bads' that are exciting in their own right, and some surprises that are right there for the taking but never quite revealed. Yet. ;-) I am really excited to see where Keri takes this series, and I am anxiously awaiting the next installment. I would definitely recommend this book for ALL Keri Arthur fans and urban fantasy fans that like their story arcs broad and building, their heroines feisty and strong, a bit of conflict in the love department, and plenty of action and intrigue.
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Omega Days
by
John L. Campbell
Michelle Olson
, June 16, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Omega Days is the first novel of the OMEGA DAYS series by John L. Cambell and it was a thoroughly enjoyable read! Very much like The Walking Dead on paper, it follows the tale of several groups in the wake of the Omega Virus outbreak & the utter & complete Zombiepocalypse that ensues. It was well written, and while I noticed that several reviewers didn't enjoy the different groups chronicled throughout, it felt real to me. If an outbreak is pandemic, it's unrealistic to follow just a single group. And as they merged, in unexpected ways, it was interesting to follow. Speaking of the characters, they had depth and were relatable, and I really liked that there wasn't a set stereotype throughout. The main threads were all diverse and allowed for the introduction of plenty of human psyche drama throughout, not just the obvious underlying tale of trying to survive. I could see each and every scenario happening in real life should something of this magnitude ever come to pass. This is one of those books - like a good, cheesy, classic horror movie - that will have you yelling at the characters out loud "don't do it" and using OMG like a mantra. :) And while I loved the book, I loathed the ending; though thankfully, I saw that there's a second book (Ship of the Dead) coming in October. Bottom line, if you like your zombie fiction, gritty, dirty, and chock full of not only zombie action but the utter horrors of human nature, this is a good book for you.
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There All Along
by
Lauren Dane, Megan Hart
Michelle Olson
, June 16, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls There All Along is two novellas by Lauren Dane & Megan Hart. Lauren Dane’s offering titled Land’s End is the story of Loyal, a lawman and Verity, a widow who runs the settlement’s mercantile. The setting is in a world where rapists and murderers run rampant in the areas surrounding various outposts. The only way that supplies and mail can get from place to place is by armed escort. Loyal is constantly on the move with shipment deliveries, but he is always drawn back to Verity. Verity dreams of seeing other places, experiencing new things. The chemistry between these two is strong, but Loyal doesn’t think he is a good enough man for Verity. But she thinks he is wrong. This is a sweet love story with hot sexual steam. By The Sea Of Sand, written by Megan Hart is set in a harsh world where survival is a hard fought battle. Kason Reed is taken prisoner by off world enemies, tortured and experimented on. When he finally returns home, he is put under the care of Teila. Teila, the light keeper at the edge of the sea of sand, tries to help Kason regain his memory while having to keep a secret from him. A secret that could destroy him. By The Sea Of Sand is a fast paced love story that had me instantly hooked. The heat factor was very high throughout.
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Hillbilly Rockstar
by
Lorelei James
Michelle Olson
, June 16, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls This review is for book six in the Blacktop Cowboys series. This series of books feature various friends from Wyoming who each are making a life for themselves but along the way may need just a little help. These rough tough cowboys are hot and sexy and always guaranteed to give readers a wild ride! Devin McClain has finally hit the big time and this country boy is truly riding the wave of success but success always has a price! Devin has always had to contend with fanatical followers and his life is never truly private but when one of his crew gets hurt it's time to beef up the security. Devins not keen on having a bodyguard twenty four seven but when both his agent and record label insist he reluctantly agrees. What he hadn't expected though was for a ballsy ex soldier with more curves than a Porsche to be his new round the clock minder! Thrust together on his tour bus Devins finally met his match. Liberty Masterson is a former soldier working in the security business. Being offered the job of four months on the road with one of the hottest tickets in country music should be straight forward but with Devin nothing's as it seems. First Liberty has to look the part and then she has to pretend to be his latest floozie! This cowboy may be hot but he's not going to turn Liberty's head, is he? As they increasingly spend time together Liberty sees an unexpected side to Devin and she likes it, oh boy does she like it! Devins sexy and has an appetite that just might see him quenching a fire that's raging inside Liberty but there's a reason he needs protection and Liberty can't risk losing her focus. The rocking distraction he poses is the least of her worries though as when the tour is over then she just might leave her heart behind. I love the sexy cowboy books that this author writes and even though this book is not set in a rural landscape we still get treated to a whole lot of western style loving! This story is rife with so much lust and passion that I'm surprised my kindle didn't start to melt! This is such a hot couple but they are perfectly matched. It doesn't matter how in charge Liberty may be in her work when it comes to the bedroom Devin takes matters ( and other things!) into his own hands! It's a tough journey for these two characters though as Liberty doesn't see a place for herself long term in Devins world . She's a woman who knows what she wants and her career is important to her. A life at a mans beck and call is not for her but what else could Devin offer? Devin is quite guarded emotionally, and indeed he's had really bad experiences in the past but his journey with Liberty is filled with heart. I was so busy being engulfed by the white hot passion between these two that I hadn't expected the author to cause me to tear up with just a few sentences during a beach scene. No spoilers here, but to go from erotic scenes to pure emotion so easily is an amazing talent and I applaud Ms James for such a fantastic piece of writing. I've never read a book about musicians on the road before and I was immensely impressed with just how realistic this story felt and I could almost imagine that I was on tour with these amazing characters! This series has certainly hit it's stride and each book has a unique feel . I think they are all easily read as standalone's but it would be a crying shame to miss out on all the goodness that the Blacktop Cowboys offer! Filled with lots of hot sex (maybe not for the faint of heart) but if you are broad minded and want a story that will pull you in then this book delivers, big time!
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Darkness Bound
by
J. T. Geissinger
Michelle Olson
, June 07, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review J.T Geissinger has a sensual quality to her work. Not the content - though that, at times, can be quite sexy! - but the silken prose. It flows with a harmony that is impossible not to be swept up in and settles in your brain like the most memorable of compositions. There's a reason J.T is an award winning author, and reading the NIGHT PROWLER novels, for me, is always a highly anticipated and thoroughly enjoyable treat and reminiscent of the some of the best movies I've sat down to enjoy over the years. Like all of the NIGHT PROWLER books, Darkness Bound grabs your attention immediately. Starting out like the best action movie where a 'call to arms' state of the union address is being made, we're introduced to investigative reporter Jacqueline Dolan and her beliefs via a snippet from her "Enemy Among Us" article. Snap to the rainforests, where Hawk, the brother of the current Alpha there, is tasked with teaching the prejudiced woman a lesson she won't soon forget and coercing her into writing a retraction... The couple's initial meeting was hilarious, super sexy, and the start of something way bigger than either of them would have ever anticipated. When Hawk finally gets Jack back to the jungle and the rest of the tribe, they're embroiled in tons of Colony politics and there was surprise after surprise. There were things I adored about Jack and Hawk's journey, there were things I absolutely hated (I can't tell you what they were though, because it's a big spoiler to the plot), but one thing remained a constant... I was absolutely glued to the page every step of the way and couldn't wait to see what would happen next. Action, intrigue, and romance around ever turn, peppered by character development of past series characters, a great leading couple, an expansion of the plot arc of the series in general that literally made me gasp, and a set up for what looks to be one of the most thrilling installments of the series yet in Into Darkness coming in the Fall. I highly recommend the entire NIGHT PROWLER series to al Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance readers and cannot wait to see what J.T has in store for us next. I will admit, there were things about the last book that made me a bit afraid that the series was hitting its plateau, but Darkness Bound gave me confidence that there is PLENTY more to tell with these characters and this story, and I cannot wait to see what's next.
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Marked by Temptation
by
Deanna Chase
Michelle Olson
, June 05, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls Marked by Temptation was a great novella in the JADE CALHOUN world. It can easily be read as a standalone,especially since the characters are actually from different covens and groups than the main characters of the full length novels. The ending was an awesome 'ah ha' moment that is segueing Angels of Bourbon Street (#4) with Shadows of Bourbon Street (#5) though, and the introduction and meshing of the characters from the New Orleans coven and the Coven Point coven was awesome. I loved Mati and Vaughn! Mati is a confident, powerful woman and she just so happens to be a sex witch and sister to the head angel of the Angel Council. She's on a classified mission for her sister, and in order to accomplish what she has to do, she must charge up. Enter Vaughn... Vaughn is the ultimate alpha male. Sexy as sin, confident but not annoyingly cocky, successful, and protective. He's a bounty hunter working for his brother and the Witch Council, but when Mati and Vaughn's gazes connect across a crowded bar, all bets are off. Instant smoking chemistry and the scenes that ensue are H.O.T! The sexiness of this novella shocked me a bit, I'll be honest. I was used to the more Urban Fantasy Romance feel of the previous Jade Calhoun novels, and this one was *really* sexy. It completely fit the characters, however, and was beautifully written. I would highly recommend this to all JADE CALHOUN fans, the intrigue and twist was great after the ending of book #4, and I can't wait to see how Deanna ties everything in to book #5. I also recommend it for any readers looking for a fun, sassy, sexy PNR novella.
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Wild Wolf
by
Jennifer Ashley
Michelle Olson
, June 02, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Heavenly Hellspawn ��" Erika: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review After long living wild, Graham McNeil’s unruly pack that was forced in a Shiftertown with a variety of other shifter species. Adjusting is slow going (even 20 years later) and the pack is pressuring Graham to choose a mate and start his dynasty, convinced that doing so will solidify the pack and strengthen his leadership. However Graham’s not terribly eager to have pack politics force him into mating. Graham still battles the grief of having lost his first mate and cub, having been unable to process loss before being charged with raising his nephew after his sister died. Having to maintain control of the pack while facing such enormous loss forced Graham to cordon off his heart, and has also left him feeling a little burnt out. His only source of pleasure is his human girlfriend. Misty Granger owns a small floral boutique, and lives a quiet ‘normal’ life. The only thing she does that could be considered reckless is dating a shifter, and not just any shifter, a pack Alpha. She knows that the thing between her and Graham is just for fun and will never be long term, and she knows it’s only a matter of time before he’s forced to pick and mate with another shifter, but when trouble literally busts into her life she has no one else to call to help her. Graham races to her aid, only to discover that Misty isn’t the one in serious trouble��"he is. Someone has big plans for Graham. Unsure of what evil stalks him Graham is forced to juggle Misty’s problems, leading a pack, ushering his nephew into adulthood and now raise two orphaned cubs while trying to fight off a spell and stay alive (and sane). All of Jennifer Ashley’s Alphas are sexy enough to make our knees weak, and Mr. McNeil is no different! Graham is that perfect combination of confident, arrogant, abrasive and noble. Like the others, he lives and breathes by what is best for the pack… mostly. Misty, while unassuming sweet, is strong-willed, outspoken and honest… and she loves to talk. The two drive each other crazy in the best and worst of ways, making for great conflict and even better reconciliations. Misty accepts that her and Graham are a temporary thing, but once she realizes Graham is in serious trouble she refuses to let Graham shut her out, even if they don’t end up together��"which she isn’t sure she wants��"she refuses to turn her back on him when he’s in trouble after her did so much for her when she was. Her naiveté causes problems--as it would anyone thrown into a culture they’ve had limited exposure to��"but she is convinced she can help and determined to do what she can until Graham is out of danger. One of the best things about this story was that the author had the characters stay true to themselves; there was no grand personality change that happened after the pair hooked up. Graham stayed Graham throughout the whole book; he was a rough, uncouth and aggressive guy that yelled far more than he talked��"from beginning to end��"even as circumstances changed and he started admitting that he had deeper feelings for Misty, even when things were great he was himself, unapologetically. Even so, Graham’s struggles with his nephew Dougal and the twins (while simultaneously bearing sole responsibility for the whole pack) are really endearing and show you just how much pressure and responsibility rests on his broad shoulders. But no matter how dire things looked he ‘sucked it up’ and did what he needed to do, for his pack and his family. Another highlight was how Misty was portrayed sexually: she wasn’t a virgin, she wasn’t shy, she OWNED her sexuality and her desires, which was not only awesome and REALLY refreshing, but something that should start trending in Romance writing as a whole. It was also really great to see dynamics changing in multiple relationships--not just between the hero & heroine - or between them and their family - but between all of the characters despite their prominence in the story. The character growth was throughout the cast, not just with the leading couple. So even if you’ve never read the Shifters Unbound series, Wild Wolf is a must-read. Honestly. I have not been this happy or satisfied with a book in quite a while. Thank you Jennifer Ashley!
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Pile of Bones Parallel Parks 1
by
Bailey Cunningham
Michelle Olson
, June 02, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review --Actual Rating 3.5 Skulls Pile of Bones tells the tale of four ordinary college students who get together to play a role playing game in a park. But this isn’t just an ordinary game. These young adults are able to slip into a dangerous alternative world. A world that begins to slip into their normal world. Pile of Bones is the first book in The Parallel Parks series by Bailey Cunningham. I must admit that I struggled with this book. While the concept of this book caught my interest, I often found myself confused. It felt like I was reading a book that was in the middle of a series. I wish that more background information was given. The terminology threw me for the first half of the book. But by part 3 (Pile of Bones is written in 4 parts) things started to fall into place. Overall I would recommend this book to diehard fantasy fans.
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Daughters of the Nile
by
Stephanie Dray
Michelle Olson
, May 26, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Daughters of the Nile, written by Stephanie Dray, is the 3rd and final book in her Cleopatra’s Daughter series. Cleopatra Selene, daughter of Cleopatra and Marc Anthony, is now queen, wife and mother, and together with her husband, King Juba, they rule the kingdom of Mauretania. Hoping and praying that Augustus, the emperor of Rome, has gotten over his obsession with her, Selene wants nothing more than to raise her children in the new land that she now calls home. Unfortunately, Augustus has other plans. And no one says no to the emperor and expects to live. Stephanie Dray is a very talented wordsmith who brings to life the time of 19 B. C. The reader will be drawn in, feeling all the emotions that her characters feel. Daughters of the Nile is a must read for any fan of historical fiction. And if you are not a fan of historical fiction, this series will convert you. It did me.
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Daughter of the Gods: A Novel of Ancient Egypt
by
Stephanie Thornton
Michelle Olson
, May 26, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review The first word that comes to mind after reading Stephanie Thornton’s Daughter Of The Gods is "epic". I was blown away by the power of this book. Not my normal reading genre, this telling of the life on one of Egypt’s lesser known pharaohs was compelling from start to finish. Stephanie Thornton took known fact, supposition, and keen imagination to bring to life the world and times surrounding Hatshepsut. Daughter Of The Gods takes the reader from when Hatshepsut is a free spirited younger sister, to the events that force her to be come the leader of Egypt. Murder, intrigue, war, love and sacrifice twine together to make this a must read for anyone. 5 skulls for a book that will stay with me for a long time!
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Jaguar Hunt
by
Terry Spear
Michelle Olson
, May 26, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Jaguar Hunt is the 3rd book in the HEART OF THE JAGUAR series and may have been my favorite so far. It was a highly entertaining read with lovable characters, plenty of intrigue, a nice paced plot, and a great ending. While these books are all part of the series, they stand perfectly well on their own and do not need to be read in order. David, the slightly rakish, yet stalwart brother of the hero of book #2, is trying to track down two teenage cat shifters that the agency wants to recruit. His investigation overlaps with another - the search for a missing jaguar from the Oregon zoo that the Enforcers are trying to solve. In an attempt to solve both mysteries as quickly and efficiently as possible, there's an inter-agency pairing between David and Tammy (who just happens to be the cousin of the heroine from book #2, Maya). Tammy is a super fun heroine. She's super independent, sassy, and highly capable. She's amazing at her job as Enforcer, and doesn't particularly like working with others. In fact, she has a history of completely ditching her assigned partners and solving the crimes herself in record time. David is one of the best special forces agents JAG has, but he also has a very carefree side, so when David scores the partnership of a lifetime and gets to pair with the sexy and sassy Tammy in hot and romantic Belize, sparks fly and things get veeeery interesting. I loved the mystery in Jaguar Hunt. The subterfuge, overlapping history and storylines, and the snippets from the character's pasts that made the story so much deeper and more intriguing. One of the best things about Jaguar Hunt, outside of the entertainment, mystery, and romance, were the supporting characters. I absolutely LOVED the twins, and I cannot wait to read their own books/novellas and find out more about them as the series progresses! I would definitely recommend Jaguar Hunt for all paranormal romance fans, especially fans of Terry Spear and the series thus far.
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For the Longest Time
by
Kendra Leigh Castle
Michelle Olson
, May 20, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review I spotted this and thought "oh that's different", as I'm used to this author delivering paranormal romance, so was intrigued to see her tackling a more contemporary and dare I say normal setting? As I have read her Dark Dynasties series, the idea of something set in a non magical New England seemed to be a total dichotomy. I've always considered New England to be a magical area in its own right even without the paranormal world encroaching upon it so with a willing heart and a fully charged kindle I prepared to be taken away by Ms Castle's imagination. Sam is an artist at heart, but recent events in her life have seen her doubting her own talent. She's spent the last few years trying to make a name for herself in New York, but now she's at a crossroads in her life, and decides to return home to Harvest Cove were she grew up. The only problem is that when Sam left Harvest Cove she didn't just leave the town and her family behind... she left heartbreak and humiliation and she's about to come face to face with the very cause of it! Jake was the uber jock at school, liked by all and part of the 'in crowd'. He had noticed the arty Sam, but her wild ways and unique style always cast her as a bit of an outsider. Now she's back, and they've all grown up. But have they really? It's a small town, and unfortunately, a small town mentality is not always healthy. Sam wants nothing to do with Jake but everyone deserves a second chance and Jakes quietly determined to seize his! I found this to be a feel good type of story filled with warm characters and snatches of humor. Jake is a vet and uses Sam's soft spot for animals against her unashamedly, which made for several humorous moments in this story. There's a very strong feeling running through that prejudice can (and does) cause long term harm. Sam might not have been a typical New England teenager, but having her peers treat her like a freak was unkind, and the damage and memories have stayed with her. As Jake reconnects with Sam, he starts to realize that his own insecurities and those of his friends are nothing to be proud of, and his eyes become well and truly opened. Sam is a survivor and it was lovely to see her open up and finally realize some of her dreams. For the Longest Time wasn't a particularly fast paced plot but a gentle story of two people reconnecting in spite of everything that's happened. I particularly liked the supporting characters, and was very interested in the undercurrents so would love to read more about them. This was well written with believable dialogue so very easy to sink into, and I truly enjoyed my visit to Harvest Cove.
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Branded
by
Laura Wright
Michelle Olson
, May 18, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Branded, the first book in Laura Wright’s new series, The Cavanaugh Brothers, is a keeper. The emotions are intense, the sexual steam is sizzling hot, and the storyline never lags. Branded features the eldest of the Cavanaugh brothers, Deacon. And the one thing that this urban businessman wants is to destroy the ranch that he grew up on. The land and everything on it are reminders of an unsolved murder, betrayals, and old family secrets. Mackenzie is the foreman of the Triple C Ranch, and she will do what ever she can to stop the destruction of the place that she loves and calls home. Deacon and Mac clash something fierce, but the attraction that they both feel can’t be denied. The dialog in Branded is smart and realistic. The sex will have you fanning yourself. I can’t wait to read the next in this series. The remaining Cavanaugh brothers, Cole, James and Blue, are men that I’ve just got to know better.
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Ghost Seer
by
Robin D. Owens
Michelle Olson
, May 18, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Ghost Seer by Robin D. Owens is the first in a new series that features Claire Cermak and Zack Slade, two people who find the life that they have each known, suddenly and drastically changed. Claire is a no nonsense accountant who likes things straight forward and orderly. But on the death of her kooky aunt, she begins to question her sanity, as she begins to see and hear ghosts. And since she doesn’t believe in ghosts, this is quite a problem. Zack has dedicated his life to law enforcement until he is shot. No longer able to work in the field, and not interested in spending the rest of his career behind a desk, he finds himself bitter and rudderless. Ghost Seer is a nice mix of romance, paranormal and a dash of mystery. Enzo, the talking ghost dog that Claire inherits along with the the ability to see ghosts, is a wonderful addition. Part goofball, part advisor, Enzo tells Claire that she must accept her new power or risk going mad and even dying. Zack, also a nonbeliever, refuses to acknowledge his own touch of sight. Ghost Seer is an easy read. Slow at times, but enjoyable overall.
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Gilded Lily
by
Delphine Dryden
Michelle Olson
, May 18, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review This is book three in the Steam and Seduction series, which is set within a steampunk type era. A landscape that resembles the Victorian, but feels quite twentieth century at times. A world where steam is the ultimate power, is closely guarded, but anything is possible . This is an alternative reality without the nuclear power or the technology we take for granted, and more importantly, a life that's set with rigid rules. Welcome to a new age of human imagination! Having read Scarlet Devises I was very curious to see who the author would write about next and was quite surprised when this story turned out to feature Barnabas Smith- Grenville whose brother Phineas was previously mentioned. Barnabas wants nothing more than to serve his country and find out what really happened to his missing brother. Rumours abound that Phineas was heavily involved with opium but Barnabas wants so much to discover the truth about his baby brother. When asked to maintain a watchful eye on a wealthy young heiress whose father is heavily involved in political machinations it seems the answer to his prayers. Keeping tabs on Frederique Murcheson in the last place his brother Phineas was seen is the perfect assignment for Barnabas. He knows his brother served his country well and now he's determined to do the same but espionage doesn't suit everyone! Freddie is a talented young woman who just feels so stifled by all the rigmaroles of society. As a young woman of considerable talents and ingenuity she's found a way to spend her days more profitably. Freddie sneaks out dressed as a young man and works as a Tinker, a man who fixes all manner of machinery and yes she's good at it! The only problem though is her father has yet again placed a watchdog in her life and his name is Barnabas ! He seems harmless enough and Freddie has no compunction about directing him to help further her own endeavours but when they both stumble across something that puts them all in danger suddenly Freddie sees a whole new side to Barnabas and boy does she like it! These novels are set in an alternative steampunk world that imagines what life could be like if the American revolutionary war had never taken place and are just full of political intrigue and conspiracy usually. This particular story, however, featured a lot more about the corruption and greed that fuels the underbelly of society. Opium dens may seem fanciful, but are a part of this reality and smuggling is a highly lucrative and dangerous business. The author cleverly interweaves modern ideas such as the possibility of an underwater tunnel connecting the English Coast with mainland France whilst adding amazing and bizarre creatures to the mix. Fear not though if it's the technology that always hold you gripped as submersibles and dirigibles abound in this story, but this time it's the underwater world of possibilities that firmly take center stage. I always enjoy the mystery of these stories, but obviously also seek to be entertained by the romance and this time I was a little disappointed if I'm honest. Freddie is a plucky heroin,e but I thought she took advantage of those who trusted her and I didn't always like that about her. Barnabas is not the usual chest beating alpha male that so many authors seem to prefer. He was a more reserved type of chap, and I hate to say sensitive but he certainly felt a little weaker at times then I wanted. I have no doubt that the two central characters enjoyed their "games" but it just felt as if Freddie was always in charge and for me that took some of the thrill out of the romance. He certainly deserves to get his girl but I'm still not sure if Freddie deserved him! She's a loyal friend and as the story unfolds clearly sees all the good that is Barnabas but for this reader it wasn't my favorite pairing . I'm not particularly a geek or anything, but I do enjoy reading about all the inventions in these books. Add a large dose of political intrigue and mystery and these stories are addictive. A fast paced, fun, and truly fascinating world that's filled with entertaining characters . These books are pure escapism and Gilded Lily was no exception!
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Straddling the Line
by
Jaci Burton
Michelle Olson
, May 15, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Straddling The Line is the eighth book in the Play by Play series. This very popular series is centred around the sporting achievements of the Riley family, but this particular book centers around characters who have previously been kept on the sidelines. Prepare to be engulfed in a world that will both surprise and delight you! Trevor Shay is quite literally a sporting legend. He's one of that rare breed of sporting superstar who plays both Baseball and American Football professionally. He's loved by many, but still remembers where it all began. Asked by an old friend to help her daughter Haven who seems to be at a crossroads, he agrees to let her interview him, but it's going to be a long process. Haven isn't quite sure anymore if what she's doing as a journalist is exactly what she really wants to do. She's devastated by her father's death, but out of the blue, the one guy who always seemed out of reach offers her a plumb assignment. Trevor has always shunned in depth interviews but getting reacquainted with Haven he starts to allow someone to see the man beneath the uniform. What started out as a favour turns into something much more serious as Haven and Trevor spend more time together. Trevor has always kept his distance, but with Haven around he's finding it much harder to keep his secret. Trevor has reasons for not letting anyone really close, but Haven isn't a journalist for nothing, and if there's a mystery to solve, she's prepared to dig deep! Boundaries are about to be breached, and these two damaged people might just find a solution together . This is a very very sexy read. Be prepared to want to grab your man or battery operated friend as this author has written a seriously hot book! Trevor may not want to discuss certain things, but when it comes to being a performer he excels, and not just on the field. Haven is suffering from grief. Grief is not a common theme in romance, and it was very pleasing to see the author tackling it and making it acceptable. Far too often we struggle and refuse to admit to emotions, but these things need to be addressed, and for Haven, it was certainly time to move forward. I've read a few books by this author and although I'm not a huge sports fan ( I'm Englis,h so don't really understand baseball) these books are highly addictive. Ms Burton has the knack of making these stories come to life as we read of people who are either family or who met at college and are interconnected . This tight knit group of people are highly entertaining, and there's always something going on so it's a wild ride that the author takes her readers on. A very sexy installment, and it was great to revisit characters that always delight.
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Then Came You
by
Jill Shalvis
Michelle Olson
, May 13, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls This is book five in this authors Animal Magnetism series and lives up to all the hype surrounding it. Ms Shalvis consistently writes stories that feature likeable characters struggling with life's adversities and yet somehow meeting that special someone. With this author a warm fuzzy feeling is almost always guaranteed when you read her fun sexy romances and happily this book was no different. Emily has been training hard to become a Vet whilst trying to be a supportive daughter but her Internship in out of the way Sunshine Idaho might just be a step too far! It's bad enough that she really wants to be closer to her lonely father so she can keep an eye on him but when she walks in and meets the guy she recently had a one night stand with ( her first ever!) and he turns out to be her new boss; what's Emily to do? Wyatt is sex on legs and boy does Emily remember just how good with his hands he was! For the sake of her job though, they must keep things professional . So strictly professional sounds like a good idea but just one more night sounds even better to Emily's libido and darn it but Wyatt seems only too happy to help! What's a girl to do? No this job is important so Emily is determined to ignore the raging attraction she feels for Wyatt and besides she has no intention of staying in Idaho or does she? Great piece of pure escapism. Two characters both trying to deny what they feel and yet at the same time so conflicted . Emily has sacrificed a lot to be the perfect daughter and has a plan and being stuck long term in Idaho is not it! She can cope with one year but being in Sunshine she slowly lets her guard down and starts to realise that life is happening all around her and maybe it's time to just start to live rather then make plans. Wyatt is a guy who has always needed to put down roots and he's finally where he wants to be. He has always been attracted to intelligent gorgeous career women but has suffered heartbreak as none have ever put him first. Falling for Emily who can't wait to leave is definitely not a good idea so guarding his heart is a must. Slight problem though as every time they are alone together sparks well and truly fly! This is a lovely sweet romance, but there's also a mystery wrapped in it, so watch out for the bad guy! I liked that there's sub plots going on and interesting supporting characters . I have to admit that Emily was an unexpected heroine and constantly amazed me with her appetites and can I say she's very very weak willed when it comes to the sexy Wyatt! Although who could blame her? Another winner from this author who writes with such aplomb that frankly I'm amazed I hadn't tried her sooner! Perfect light summer read full of romance and just enough drama to capture my attention. Ms Shalvis is clearly a master of this type of book and I can't wait to read more!
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When Day Breaks
by
Maya Banks
Michelle Olson
, May 12, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review This is the ninth book in this very popular series that is centred around a military family. The Kelly family have all served in various parts of the military and their breadth of experience is something they put to good use working as a top secret recovery organisation . When something goes wrong and you need help then there's none better than KGI! Swanson or Swanny as he's known served in Afghanistan with Nathan and Joe Kelly where he was captured, tortured and left hideously disfigured. The Kelly's are a fiercely loyal family and when Swanny needed a job there was never a doubt that he belonged with them . Now adopted into the family business he's found his place in the world and if being a badass is called for then he's the one for the job! Eden works as a model and she's slowly but surely climbing to the top of that cutthroat world. Hailed as one of the most beautiful women in the world she's somehow managed to keep her feet on the ground but her perfect world is about to come crashing down ! Edens father has a secret and it's been eating away at him but now that secret is about to raise it's ugly head and Eden is the one whose in danger of being bitten! She needs protection and it has to be the best but luckily her brother Ryker served with the Kelly's and Swanny so he knows just who to call. Swanny spent many a cold lonely night remembering the photos Ryker had of his lovely sister and now he can't quite believe that he's finally going to meet her. Swanny realises that women find his looks frightening but Eden sees beneath the scars and what she sees is all man! I love the Kelly's and all the associated characters that have somehow been adopted into their clan . These fierce, hard working characters just leap off the page with their own special brand of troubleshooting . This is romantic suspense at it's best and has delighted readers for quite some time but I must admit I felt a little disappointed with the first half of this book. I guess I just wanted a bit more action but the author spent the time allowing readers to catch up with characters from previous stories and see what was happening in their lives. I'm sure some readers will enjoy seeing the softer side of these tough men but I much prefer more action and plot. The romance between Eden and Swanny was a gentle one but a little surprising. Eden works in the very brash and hard world of modelling so finding her to be sweet and innocent just felt a little odd. I expected her to be an experienced woman but she did actually woo Swanny which made a nice twist. There's nothing more amusing than reading about a big tough man flailing around when a woman takes control ! Lucky Swanny had no idea that all his dreams were about to come true! Having said that I wasn't completely on board initially I would reassure readers that Ms Banks had a fantastic plot twist up her sleeve and the second half of this book really gathered pace. A nail biting end to this story that really allowed Swanny to step up and be the hero that readers always knew he was. So if you like reading about alpha military males with rock hard bodies and a heart as wide as a mile then you need to get this book. Swanny may have given up on love but luckily this author hadn't given up on him! Everyone deserves a second chance and with the KGI behind him he finally gets his!
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Given Celestial Blues Book Three
by
Vicki Pettersson
Michelle Olson
, May 09, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review I truly don't believe that this brilliant piece of storytelling genius can be properly summed up and done justice by yours truly, but I shall endeavor to try... I have enjoyed this series since book #1, but this installment had so much wonder, so much intrigue, so much surprise (OMGoodness the twists!!), heart, and action that it was all I could do not to be overwhelmed by all that it made me *feel*. And that, is the most honest telling of a truly remarkable piece of literature there is. The Given picks up where book #2 left off with both Grif and Kit trying to find a way to live their lives without the other and still get the answers that they both so desperately seek. When a mysterious murder brings them back together, they have no choice but to confront their feelings while working together to solve the crime, and possibly, find out once and for all who actually killed Griffin Shaw. Unbeknownst to them, however, there are some heavy hitters in play, about 50 years of subterfuge, a whole lot of manipulation, and some crazy, dark secrets. The CELESTIAL BLUES characters are ones for the ages. They're so well thought out and defined that they are hard to shake for days after the completion of a book, and will always remain in a special place of your memory even months afterwards. They're also timeless, and in 20 years, this book will still seem current. I am really going to miss them. This world is unique and complex in its simplicity. What I mean, is that there aren't tons of different supernatural creatures, there isn't a crazy 'rule' system, it's just the Centurions, the Pure, and... life, as you and I know it. Sure there are some prophecies and things that are uniquely fantastical, but it's just so well developed, it feels like you could actually live it. I am in love with this series and I can see myself reading it again. The noir elements were a draw for me from the start and I couldn't have hoped for more personally with Vicki's mesh of all that I love - dark urban fantasy, mystery/thriller, and paranormal romance. Add in the stellar way that this series was ended, and I will recommend this book far and wide. I do, however, suggest that the trilogy be read in order. This book wouldn't mean nearly as much, or be quite as touching, without the backstory and arc developed in the first two books. So, so good! :)
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Shiver of Light Meredith Gentry Book 9
by
Laurell K Hamilton
Michelle Olson
, May 05, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review I hadn't realized just how much I missed these characters until they were finally back. This book was an unexpected gift. I had thought the series was over, left to just sort of die out with unanswered questions, and then I saw that book #9 was actually going to be released. When I got asked to read for review I immediately jumped in. There was a lot to love in this book... Some incredibly sweet moments, a lot of healing and some additional character growth, a bit of action (not quite as much as past installments), some tragedy - yes I cried - and a bit of surprise (though it was mostly hinted at from the beginning). It also brought some closure, and yet left openings for either more installments or a spinoff if Laurell is so inclined. All in all, I was personally happy with it and very glad us long time fans got the chance to step back into this world! I'd love to tell you all more, but there isn't much I can say in more detail without there being spoilers about how Merry gets back at her uncle, what happens with her crazy aunt, which of Merry's men end up being the father, where the tragedy occurs, what magical gifts her babies end up having (or how many there actually ends up being), what happens with faery, etc. So let me say this much... you know I was happy with it. Would I recommend it for MERRY GENTRY fans? 100%! Would I recommend it for new readers, yes, but I do believe that the rest of the series should be read in order before you jump into A Shiver of Light.
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House of the Rising Sun
by
Kristen Painter
Michelle Olson
, May 05, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Great book! The world building was stellar, the characters instantly likable, there was plenty of conflict on each page, the book started with a bang and instantly kept my interest, and even though it was the first of a 'new' series, there wasn't that dreaded data dump that makes you want to scream "get on with it already". It did have a graceful build, but from about 48% on it was constant action and like all good books should, left me wanting more after the last page was turned. Augustine is an amazing hero and his escalation into the Guardian of the Haven city of New Orleans means... yep, more Augie in future installment. Woot! :) Harlow was one of those heroines that you really, really dislike at the beginning because there's so much left to conjecture, but she really grows on you as the book continues and the chemistry between the two is undeniable. The supporting characters - both on the protagonist and antagonist side of the spectrum - were necessary, compelling, and left me wanting to know more, so I hope that we do, indeed, learn more about them as the series progresses. While CRESCENT CITY is a spin-off of THE HOUSE OF COMARRE it stands well on its own, and new readers will be able to jump in without issue. Would I recommend House of the Rising Sun? Absolutely! I'm really looking forward to book #2. This is a very intriguing new Urban Fantasy series with lots of supe groups and plenty of action. Right up my alley...
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Night Broken Mercy Thompson Book 8
by
Patricia Briggs
Michelle Olson
, May 05, 2014
Our Review: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review ~ I’m thinking that jealously can be used as a form of intuition in relationship situations. We all know that at times jealously can be an irrational emotion that can’t be helped or explained. But what happens when that emotion is NOT irrational and you have good reason to be jealous and maybe even a little worried? Briggs is at it again, building upon Mercy and laying her character, while still keeping her very much Mercy. This time though, she has to deal with ex-wives who can manipulate people without even trying, Vampire Politics at its finest and a Volcano God who can’t stop killing. There is always drama of some sort in Mercy’s life and this is no different, Briggs starts us off with something that seemed so harmless, but in the span of a couple words and a page it turns into something that is going to suck very much for our girl Mercy and she knows it. But there isn’t much she can do because there is no way she is going to leave Adams ex-wife to fend for herself against a killer. Seems like an easy “job” for lack of a better term, but this is anything but easy. Soon they are knee deep in a myth about Volcano Gods and his love of the Sun and our hero’s and heroine’s learn that everything isn’t always what it seems and Christy isn’t at all without motives. We all know that the pack (the females in the pack) don’t care for Mercy because she signifies changes and wolves don’t like change all that much. There is a sort of tentive peace when the book starts that gets smashed to pieces when it becomes plainly obvious that the women want Christy back. Everyone is sucked into the manipulation but Honey, who surprises me in this book and I love her more for her willingness to stick by Mercy and see everything for what it is. On top of dealing with the ex-wife of her husband, someone very important wants the walking stick back. The issue- Mercy gave it to Coyote and hasn’t seen him since she fought the River Devil. Now she has a week to find and get the walking stick from Coyote before things really get bad. Piece of cake… except for the simple fact that she doesn’t know how to find him and nobody has seen him either. But there may be someone who has the power to get in touch with him for her. Someone with a very big connection to her, that had me smiling and laughing the entire time because he is not what I was expecting ��" had I been expecting him. The moments between Adam and Mercy are really sweet and romantic I love them as a couple. I hated that Christy was coming between them and it was obvious that she was, even if only when Mercy was not around and couldn’t be there to defend her turf, although she wasn’t doing much defending because she was trying to not set back all the work she and Adam had done in order to get pack on the Mercy bandwagon. There was never a lack of action in Night Broken, lots of talking but it wasn’t meaningless or just filler space. Everything that was said and done in this book held a purpose, even if we didn’t know what that purpose was right at that moment. Briggs can weave a story like no other, mixing emotions, actions and drama and evil villains with an ease that we all very much appreciate. We also got to see some old characters, friends, associates and frienemies. Secrets are revealed that were kept from Mercy (for her sanity) and motives from the Vampire seethe come to light. A must read stamp of approval.
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Crimson Veil Otherworld 15
by
Yasmine Galenorn
Michelle Olson
, May 05, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Devilish Diva - Shawnie: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review I have to be honest. I am not a fan of Menolly, no matter his hard I try I can't get into her character. Its gotten to the point where I have to force myself too read her point of view books because I need them in order to understand the bigger picture. This new was a challenge because I have only read so far up to book eight, so I have no idea what's happening from book eight and on. This made it a bit hard to read Crimson Veil, I had a scowl on my face from page one, I was so damn confused. All in all... I enjoyed the book, despite my lack of information. I still don't like Menially, but I do understand her as a person or rather vampire. All their lives have changed significantly and no matter how much they fight the good fight, it never seems like its enough. The girls are in. Eve against time to find the next Spirit Seal and Shadow Wing in close. Crimson Veil starts off on a rather emotionally sad note and you can't help but be sucked into Menolly's thought process. She has a vulnerability about her, that she tries really hard to hide, but in that moment you see it. Its never easy to lose a friend and I admit that the beginning is what made me actually want to read the book, even though I wasn't anywhere near ready to read it. It wouldn't be an Otherworld novel without straight to the point action, but with this book, it came in the form of something more subtler than an attack from something nasty. I enjoyed that more than anything, a break from fighting baddies is a break no matter if its still a mess. Things pick up though, and soon the girls are trying to figure it all out without getting killed in the process. Removing my feelings from this. I give Crimson Veil 4 1/2 skulls. I plan too reread it once I am caught up with all the books before it.
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High Seduction
by
Vivian Arend
Michelle Olson
, May 05, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Devilish Diva - Shawnie: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review This was actually a damn good book. I was a little worried since this is my first rodeo with the author but I'm glad I got the chance to read this and I can say I'll be buying more of her books. High seduction starts out on a high note with the heroine Erin doing so acrobats in the air, and while its hilarious from time prospective, its not from Erin's. Erin Tate is a take no shit, always in control, eff off kind if woman these days. She is the pilot for the Lifeline Search & Rescue team and from point one you know she is damn good at what she does. But she is definitely missing something in her very closed off, controlled life. Tim Dexter is looking for a new job and he wants it to be with Lifeline, he has specific reasons, but all roads lead to Erin. Tim is a man who knows what he ants and isn't afraid to take a couple chances at getting it or in this case getting it back. Nothing and no one will stop him from claiming his "kitten" again. These two have a history and from the sounds of it before its explained you think it was horrible break-up. Along the lines of he cheated on her with her best friend and then tried to act like she didn't find out. This was probably the only thing I didn't like about this book the way the author made it all seem so bad. Now I'm not saying it isn't a good reason to be upset, because it is. What I'm saying is Erin should be blaming herself the entire time, and not Tim. Despite all if that I enjoyed this book a lot. There was action from page one and it just got better and better the more I read. I couldn't have asked for a better redemption book and the emotions that the author pulled from the characters seem real which is a big thing for me since this is at the end of the day a romance. The slight touches of BDSM and voyeurism that are put into it all are excellent and placed and done perfectly. I would honestly read this again and. Do recommend it the all who have this book in their sights.
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Shield of Winter
by
Nalini Singh
Michelle Olson
, May 04, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review Well here it is the thirteenth full length book in the amazing Psy-Changeling series. It's a series that just keeps building a world populated with strong characters that will leave readers feeling wrung out and breathless. This particular story centers around two very different Psy, Vasic the cold Arrow and Ivy an Empath. Theirs is a journey of two souls on a collision course with no place to hide and it's going to be a bumpy ride! Vasic is a character who has been dangled by the author in front of her readers for quite some time now and he's possibly one of the most powerful Psy in his unit. He has had a difficult life and being an assasin has taken it's toll . He agrees that now that Silence has fallen his race will need all the help they can get if they are to survive the creeping death that sits within the Net. Vasic accepts the mission of bringing Empaths together in a controlled environment but one Empath in particular Ivy, will quite literally test every shield that Vasic has ever put in place. I was overjoyed when I got my hands on this book but a little afraid if honest as the idea of two cold Psy being the lead characters sounded alarm bells for me. I'm in the minority in that I didn't particularly connect with those in the previous book "Heart of Obsidian" . So I am a very happy bunny when I say this felt more like a complete story to me. It's a book with a relationship that has a beginning a middle and the possibility of a happy ending. In this harsh world nothing is certain but these two characters will fight for what they believe to be right. It's difficult to imagine living without emotions and always being self contained but the author has a knack for revealing those small differences that make it feel real. Just the idea that a simple hug would be out of place brings to life a world so cold that it's not difficult to grasp and I'm not surprised that something is starting to snap. A harsh empty reality and yet it's filled with hope as those who realise the dangers are fighting to save the Psy race. This book is mainly centered around the Psy characters and it's interesting to read about the shy Ivy embracing the possibility that she can thaw out Vasic. She's almost brazen at times and quietly determined to get her man! As for Vasic I think the word honourable is the one that describes him the best. He's also quite amusing at times and his teleporting abilities frequently cause him problems! He clearly is a very passionate guy but has never released that side of himself before but Vasic unabashedly seeks advice from Judd who I know is a favorite amongst many readers. If the Changelings are your favourite characters in this series then rest assured they still appear in this book but it's quite rightly front and center about the Psy race and all the changes they are going through. The Forgotten are also in the background and I suspect we might learn more about them in future books. The Psy race are quite literally fighting for their survival now and everyone will have a part to play. So yes it's a romance and Ms Singh's lush prose just flowed . The heroine Ivy has depths and a unique courage that sees her bravely taking on her lethal Arrow. A slow believable romance but it's the incredible world building and story telling that kept me gripped until the last page. There's clearly so much more to come and please could we see more of Aden? The dynamics of this world just keep changing and it's a fabulous ride! This series is best read in order starting with Slave to Sensation but please whatever you do make sure you find time for these books because you will never regret it!
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Grim Shadows
by
Jenn Bennett
Michelle Olson
, May 04, 2014
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 3.5 Skulls Prohibition just got sexy! This the second book in Ms Bennetts Roaring Twenties series is set in a San Francisco that's embracing the twentieth century and all that it entails. Filled with action, magic and more than a little romance this series has found it's own niche. Lovers of both urban fantasy, and paranormal romance will lap these books up as yet again the author transports her readers on a voyage of unparalleled discovery. A top notch historical paranormal world to explore! Lowe Magnusson is trying his hardest to step out of his brother Winters shadow and make a name for himself as an archaeologist but his recent discovery is putting him in danger . He's returning home with a priceless artefact but he's not the only person who wants it. Whilst trying to evade would be thieves he meets the aloof Hadley Bacall whose father just might be interested in purchasing the djed amulet for his museum but something is just wrong. The Amulet is part of something much more sinister and Lowe promises Hadleys father that he will discover the remaining pieces. Hadley is tired of being overlooked because of her sex and insists on helping Lowe but that throws them constantly together and Hadley herself carries a secret and it's one that's just as deadly as what's hunting them! This was quite a slow pace compared to the previous book Bitter Spirits and took a while to really draw me in but when the action got going boy was it a page turner! A wonderful mixture of Egyptian mythology coupled with fantastic magical creatures! This story just keeps building and adding layers that constantly surprise the reader. Lowe is such a funny earthy character with more than a little mischief in his soul. He's a young man with a need to find his place but he's just so sexy! His idea to combine touch with food will have you with tears streaming down your cheeks! For me he was a revelation as the author cleverly treated us to his innermost thoughts and feelings and trust me that man has a very fertile imagination! Hadley is quite a reserved almost aloof character but she's rarely experienced love and acceptance and it's a joy to see her come out of her (very protective )shell and embrace all that life has to offer. She's a strong determined young woman who in many ways feels born before her time but with Lowe by her side prepared to take on any challenge. I think that's the crux of this story as both hero and heroine bring a different perspective and viewpoint into play and the reader gets a glimpse of life before true emancipation . This is not a gentle romantic story as these are strong characters who come to life on the page ! Theirs is a passionate connection filled with much teeth gnashing and distrust but when they connect you will need to turn a fan on! The heat generated between this couple could set the page on fire! So this was a story that surprised me and I can't wait to read more. I'm loving that each book in this series takes me on a journey with characters that really seem to come to life. Would I recommend this book? That's a definite yes ! Interesting characters , unique world building , plot driven adventure and hot romance! What's not to love?
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Air Bound
by
Christine Feehan
Michelle Olson
, May 04, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy Gifted in Exchange for an Honest Review Well, this author has taken her readers back to Sea Haven with this her third book in the Sisters of the Heart series and it's a cracker full of non stop action. Fans of this author were probably bitterly disappointed when her series about the Drake sisters drew to a close but Ms Feehan has managed to find equally magical characters living within the towns limits! This book has been much anticipated and yet again readers are set for an enthralling ride. Airiana has finally found somewhere safe where she feels she belongs. Somehow fate has seen fit to grace her with the love of true friends who will always stand at her side. Airiana has tried to keep a low profile since her mother was brutally murdered and living in Sea Haven has finally given her a home. Airiana has an amazing gift which paints a target on her back but her friends will fight to protect her if that's what's needed and unfortunately that's what's about to happen! Maxim is one of the much feared Prakenskii brothers, trained from childhood to infiltrate and remove any target. His latest assignment takes him to Sea Haven where he helps kidnap Airiana but Maxim has his own agenda! Taking the troublesome and very stubborn Airiana far away from her home Maxim tries to convince her that he has her safety at heart but what if it's Airianas heart in danger? Airiana has never before met a man quite like Maxim but can she really trust him? He's dangerous and about to put Airiana through more trials then should be humanly possible but together they just might survive. I have been a fan of this author since I first discovered her Dark Carpathian series and love the suspense twist that she's putting on this newer series . I wasn't sure just how she could continue to bring fresh life to Sea Haven but have to admit these characters are just so interesting! Airiana whilst quiet and demure has a wicked sense of humour and her courage is astounding! Not all heroines are kick ass but when called for this strong woman makes a stand . As for the hero Maxim he's a bossy and arrogant type but it certainly works in this story. Emotionally scarred and alone he has had to rely solely on himself and trust does not come easy to him. Reading his journey from automaton to lover was heartwarming. Now I've mentioned the word lover so feel I should broach the sexual content. Ms Feehan always seems to write very sensual stories that can be quite explicit but in this book it feels as if the sex takes a back seat which really works very well. So often various authors play the virgin card and have them literally at it like rabbits and it just doesn't fit! The romance here builds up gradually as the actual plot is much more important (hurray) and indeed when the couple finally get physically close it's not exactly the usual fireworks! Do not misunderstand though there is plenty of heat in this book it's just that the story is chock full of action and really fast paced . There is just so much happening as the author picks up the sex trafficking storyline from previous books and runs with it. Caution though as it's not pleasant. So incredibly strong characters, a storyline that's very emotional , villains who deserve everything that's coming to them and you just know that there's more to come! If I have a gripe it's that it ends quite abruptly but that's just me, no matter how long a book I always want more!
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A Reason to Love
by
Alexis Morgan
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted for an honest review This is the third full length book in The Snowberry Creek series. Written by an author who to this reader is usually a name more famous for paranormal tales , this new contemporary series features veteran service men finding new lives and new loves in a civilian world. Spence is believed to have been killed whilst serving in Afghanistan but in reality he was captured and hideously tortured by insurgents. Now he's come back to the only place and person that's ever felt like home to him but it's not the welcome that he expected. The girl he always loved is about to get married and what's worse is it's to one of his unit who left him behind! Spence is angry and confused but what does he do now? Melanie was the poor little rich girl at school who never really felt that she fitted in but she remembers the local bad boy Spence and still can't quite believe that someone so vibrant is dead. Imagine her shock when she sees him standing in the local cometary by his own grave stone. It's all been a hideous mistake but there's no mistaking the sheer anger that's coming off him! When Spence seems to lose it Melanie offers him a place to stay whilst he sorts out what he wants but sometimes what you want and what you really need are not the same thing. Melanie still has feelings for Spence but it's clear he's totally messed up and not looking for a relationship. Can he ever find peace in Snowberry Creek? Or is Spence going to leave again? I usually read paranormal romances and previously had only read the Paladin series by this author but I'm glad I read this book. It's not the usual sort of contemporary military romance that seems so popular recently no it's a far deeper tale than that. The author has bravely tackled the subject of post traumatic stress disorder and done a very good job of it. It's not slushy or sentimental in any way , nor does it glorify suffering . This book tries to show that some things will stay with us no matter what and running away is never an option. Spence is an angry young man but he feels he has good reason . He is trying to make sense of his life but everything has changed. Luckily the friends he has made will fight to get back the man they know and love. This was a poignant read but definitely not sentimental. It's heart warming and written with a genuine sense of humour that animal lovers particularly will recognise! A story that shows how forgiveness can truly alter our lives and that anger and bitterness will always hold us back. It is a romance but it's a slow build that feels far more realistic then some I've read. It's not particularly a sexy book as it's the story and characters journey that matters here . It's not essential to have read the previous books but the same characters do crop up so if you enjoy this then you really ought to find the time . A good contemporary romance that tackles real issues and I'd definitely like to journey back to Snowberry Creek soon!
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The Guild
by
Jean Johnson
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls For those who love this authors Sons of Destiny books comes a new series that grants a peak into the world that's intertwined with it. It's not essential to have read Sons of Destiny first but this new series which is so closely linked with it adds greatly to the enjoyment. Filled with the authors trademark world building The Guardians of Destiny is finally hitting it's stride with this the third installment . The citizens of Mekhana have tried for centuries to hide and protect their Mages from the ravenous and destructive God Mekha. Now he's disappeared and it's finally time for a new beginning for all the people but without a patron God or Goddess who will lead them! Change is coming and it's time for peace to come to their troubled land but with a new Convocation amongst the Gods nothing is certain . Rexei has done her best to remain hidden in plain sight since she saw her mother cruelly taken by evil priests under the protection of Mekha. She's a Mage who hides her power as she knows they would try to drain her magical abilities but she's found a way to survive. Rexei pretends to be a young boy but has never found any where safe enough to stay for very long. She's been working for the priests but with the city in turmoil finds herself in the spotlight and taken to meet the Mage Guild master who has remained hidden within the confines of the Vortex that he guards . It would appear that he now seeks information that Rexei might have. Rexei is unprepared for Alonnen, he's much younger than she expected the Guild Master to be and far more powerful. He's also far more approachable than other high ranking men she's met and her reactions to Alonnen confuse Rexei. Whilst working for the priests Rexei overheard talk of summoning Demons and Alonnen knows of prophecies that foretell of widespread destruction if that's allowed to happen. The priests are desperate to cling onto the power they've previously wielded and will risk everything but what if they too are being used? Power is an evil taskmaster and corruption can seep into your soul but somehow Alonnen and Rexei must find a way to stop the ultimate sacrifice before it's too late . This is another amazing piece of fantasy from this deservedly popular author. Her world building is just amazing . As I read this I found myself yet again trying to imagine the people and places described and there's an awful lot happening here. Gods and Goddesses although mentioned do not take centre stage in this book no that's left happily to the human characters. As for the characters Rexei stands out simply for her survival skills ! She's a young woman who is multitalented and constantly reinvents herself and yet she's a contradiction too as her innocence and naïveté make her a sympathetic character . She's someone who the reader can get behind and the scenes where she stands up for what she sees as right will have you cheering. Definitely a mouse that roars! As for Alonnen I found him to be a quietly confident hero with a quick wit and unafraid to be decisive. I also found his sensitivity towards the heroine Rexei to be quite sweet if honest and that leads me to the question of romance . There is a relationship within this book but it's not forced down the readers throat, instead it's allowed to grow at a steady pace which given Rexei's past makes sense. Fantasy romance at it's best. Lovely evocative writing style that pulls you in. Likeable characters and interesting supporting ones too! Unique story but I'd like to see more from the Gods as each book is building a picture that is still incomplete for me. Completely different to the other books I've read by Ms Johnson and I love that she can keep surprising me. Recommended.
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Slightly Spellbound
by
Kimberly Frost
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy Gifted in Exchange for an Honest Review --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls The fourth magical instalment in the Southern Witch series charting the somewhat chaotic life of Tammy Jo Trask. She's part witch, part Fae and most definitely all Texan and unfortunately right now caught between two very different men. On one side there's her ex husband Zach who will always hold a place in her heart and then there's the sexy Bryn Lyons who she is magically bound to. Two men and one woman , it should be an easy choice right? Trust me in Tammy Jos world nothing is ever as straightforward as it seems! Tammy Jo's magic is a little complicated as she's such a curious mixture. Her inner witch calls upon her earth powers but her Fae side is getting much harder to control. There's someone spying on her and if that wasn't enough to creep Tammy Jo out something odd is happening to the towns ghosts as they are disappearing ! When Evangeline Rhodes shows up asking Tommy Jo to be her bridesmaid it sets off a chain of events that will lead Tammy Jo on a not so merry dance. There's danger tracking Evangeline and now it looks as if Tammy Jo is right in the middle of it too! Dark magic practices are threatening the safety of Tammy Jo and those she loves and when Evangeline's thoroughly nasty family start playing their evil games it's time for Tammy Jo to come out fighting. She's not going to quietly stand by and watch pure evil take over her town and they had just better step aside. Tammy Jo is a woman on a mission but her inner most turmoil is about to pull her in directions that she just never expected. I love Tammy Jo! And I love the way this book is written as the reader gets to be inside Tammy Jos head and she has a voice that really lifts the story from the page and straight into my imagination. It's so easy to feel that the reader is right alongside this strongly written heroine and it's an immediate reaction that stayed with me throughout the book. I really liked Tammy Jo, she's full of southern charm and wit. Written as a brave fun loving woman who gets into all sorts of scrapes but she always has time for those who need help. Her interactions with the two men in her life gave me pause though as I really wanted her to make up her mind quickly as triangles are so not my thing but the author gives sound reasons for Tammy Jo's hesitance . Letting go of something so right is hard to do and trusting blindly in something new may not always lead to happiness. Two totally different gorgeous men now there's a dilemma! It's a fast paced plot with both new characters and those from previous books appearing and I loved Mercutio! Is it essential to read the others first? I'd say no as the author does a pretty good job of explaining things, but it's such a fun series that it would be a shame to miss out. Lots of action to offset the romance aspect of this book but it's the heroine Tammy Jo that truly makes this series work . She's fun and quirky but so full of compassion for everyone. Don't get on the wrong side of her though as this girl will take you down ! As for her men? Well read this book and find out if she's made up her mind and just enjoy the absolute madness that colours Tammy Jo's world!
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Cole's Redemption
by
J. D. Tyler
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: This is book five in J D Tyler's Alpha Pack series and it was lovely to catch up with those guys. These are ex navy seals each with unique Psychic powers who were viciously attacked by werewolves whilst serving in Afghanistan and now they perform covert operations for the government. The Alpha Pack are the ones sent in when any paranormal crime is detected but theirs is not an ideal life . Hidden away these men may still be fighting for their country but they are also fighting for their own survival . Rogue vampires are attacking people in board daylight and somehow the Alpha Pack have to find out just who is behind it. Problem is they may not like the answer! Zander Cole has recently been injured and now is left with limited hearing and his healing ability is quite literally killing him. He knows that he's becoming a liability to his team but all he wants is to do his job . Seriously hurting he goes out for a run but comes across a beautiful white wolf attacking his commander Nick Westfall and intervenes. When he pulls the smaller wolf off he bites her and everything changes. She's not just a random shifter attacking , no she's the estranged daughter of his commander Nick and that makes her a born wolf! Zander has quite literally bitten off more than he can chew because it turns out the white wolf Selene is his mate and he just triggered their mating bond! Selene Westfall is there to kill her father but Nick and the team take her in to allow her and Zander time to get to know each other. Selene had always believed her father Nick to be a cruel murderer but what she sees in him is at total odds with everything she's been told. Zander is beyond pleased with his luck in finding the one woman who could be his perfect mate but knows that treading carefully is the only way to go. Selenes hatred of her father has made her bitter and Zander is not exactly in a good place himself but together the two damaged wolves might be able to find happiness. The past is starting to collide with the present and it's bringing even more danger into the Alpha Pack but facing it head on is their only choice. I love these books as not only is the world building almost believable but for me it's the diverse characters that just command my attention. These guys are such strong personalities and it's fabulous the way the author brings out each ones individual quirks. Zander has always relied on his ability to heal others but without that and his own hearing damaged he clearly feels that he no longer belongs. It's a heartbreaking moment but the author quickly introduces the heroine Selene to offset any sentimentality and trust me Selene does not do sentimentality! I will be honest and say I thought they connected a bit too easily for this reader but it's explained as Selene is a born wolf and therefore used to the idea of mating. I just prefer a bit more of a chase but that's a personal thing. Their physical relationship is almost immediate and is frequent but I didn't find it erotic although other readers may well find it a sensual read. It's an interesting idea to bring Selene into the series as we now find out a lot more about wolf pack dynamics and in particular Nicks history. Im sure Ms Tyler is about to reveal a lot more in her next book and I for one am looking forward to it. So really what we have here is a story within a story. Selene's need for revenge is part of it but it's a complicated series of lies that have been told . Her mating with Zander could well be the salvation of both of them but then we also have the Rogue vampire problem and it's interesting to note that vampires are also introduced as possible allies which could well lead to other stories. Quite a simple romance in many ways but it's everything that's happening around that this reader really enjoyed. I so want Nick to get his happy ever after , I want to read an awful lot more about the Fae, I really need to know more about the vampires and oh yes I must mention a certain sorcerer and doctor do experience something magical! Well written and it was fabulous to catch up with these guys. Lots going on and still an awful lot more to come from the Alpha pack . Well worth reading this series in order and a good read for lovers of shifter stories.
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Scarlet Devices
by
Delphine Dryden
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review This is the second book in the Stream and Seduction series which is set in a steampunk type setting. This book follows on from Gossamer Wing although it's not essential to have read that first as this is easily read as a standalone novel. Set in a world that follows an alternate timeline this book features all the technology that this genre is noted for with the addition of a romance. Eliza Hardison is a young woman who is determined to right what she sees as wrongs. Strongly believing that workers rights are sometimes abused Eliza wants nothing more than to publicise the cause. She's an independent young woman with a flair for the mechanical and is reluctantly persuaded by her cousin the very talented Makeshift Baron to take part in the American Dominion Sky and Steam Rally. As Eliza is an adventurous sort the idea of a race both on land and in the air somewhat appeals to her. The Makeshift Baron asks his protege Matthew Pence to watch out for Eliza whilst they both tackle the journey. Matthew has known Eliza for several years but the child he remembers is no more. In her place is a young woman who both challenges and yet fascinates him at the same time. Both Eliza and Matthew take the race incredibly seriously as winning would be both a great coup and wonderful achievement for the victor. The perilous journey will pit them against each other but will also throw them both together. Things are not as straightforward as they should be though as sabotage is suspected right from the off. The arduous journey is made more dangerous as incidents begin to escalate and unfortunately it's soon clear that someone is out to subvert the rally. Matthew's fascination for Eliza deepens as they face explosive trials together and it's clear that the forward thinking Eliza is not immune to him. Eliza is attracted to Matthew but has a world of her own to conquer that might not include a man! What started out as a race to win quickly becomes a race just to survive. This was undoubtedly fun to read and kept reminding me of those old films that showed silly races with flying machines! It was quite easy to picture the events as they unfold and was very easy to follow. It's a different style to the first book though - Gossamer Wing, as there is a lot less espionage present here. What the author has delivered is a tale of action, adventure with more than a dash of romance. Writing that takes the reader on a great adventure against an odious villain who deserves to be taken down. Overall this book was full of intrigue and deception not to mention likeable lead characters. So rare to read about characters that truly work together without one trying to dominate the other. This was a delightful foray into the steampunk genre and I would happily read more from Ms. Dryden.
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Deceptions of Night
by
Virginia Cavanaugh
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls Deceptions of Night is the second book in this author's Order Of Night series, and follows on from the previous events in Secrets of Night. Ms Cavanaugh has created a world filled with vampires, shape shifters and sorceresses where their tentative truce and alliance is under threat. Not all those of the supernatural world desire peace and treachery and unrest is rife. Lex is a vampire prince who has been assigned to work as part of the Triad for the safety and wellbeing of all the supernatural races. He is there to replace Kale but there's a case of mistaken identity and he finds himself attacked by a female jaguar shapeshifter and there's no chance he will take that insult lying down! Shayla has been blackmailed by her alpha to kill the leech that's responsible for recent shape shifter deaths but she finds the tables well and truly turned! Lex is faster, smarter and infuriatingly sexy but he's still a leech ! Shayla has to kill him in order to free her baby brother but some how they manage to form a very shaky truce. When they join forces to try to release Shaylas brother they quickly discover that there is more deceit and treachery rampant then they could ever imagine. Determined to find answers whilst struggling to stay alive Lex and Shayla find comfort in each other's arms but are they too different to make things work? The body count is rising and someone is out for blood! It's not as straightforward as Lex first thought and pretty soon the true face of anarchy will reveal itself! This is a fast paced story that never lets up! I truly thought that if I blinked I might miss something. It starts with a bang and just doesn't pause and I applaud the author for the breakneck speed of this story. There is absolutely no way anyone reading this could be bored as the pace does not slow down! It's quite a short story but there is plenty of action and world building. We get to know the main characters quite quickly and indeed they get to know each other at the same break neck speed which obviously adds to the fun. Oh and trust me when I say these two characters are smoking hot! Written with style and vivid images that transferred easily as I read , there was a lot of suspense and twists that kept this readers attention focused. A fascinating world populated with intense characters and I really enjoyed this book. If you want a hot paranormal story with intricate plot and characters to care about then this is a very good place to start . I look forward to reading what else this author creates and sincerely hope that a certain mysterious Xander will soon get his own book.
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Werewolf in Las Vegas A Wild about You Novel
by
Vicki Lewis Thompson
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 3.5 Skulls Book six in the Wild About You series and I have to admit this reads pretty well as a standalone novel. If you are new to this authors work then it's a good place to start but if you have been following this series then I'm pretty sure that you will be charmed by this talented authors latest offering. Luke has recently inherited his fathers property and business in Las Vegas but unfortunately he's also inherited the family feud with a neighbouring hotel owner. It looks as if he can sort out that little problem with a poker game but little does he know he has an even larger problem at home! Giselle is a werewolf and she's travelled to Las Vegas to find her missing and somewhat wayward brother Bryce. What she finds when she gets there is that Bryce has run off with Cynthia a human female and she just happens to have the most gorgeous brother Luke. He is unknowingly causing huge problems for the secretive werewolf community but that's the least of Giselle's problems! They decide that teaming up to track down the runaways makes sense but spending so much time together is a lot more challenging than either of them expect. Giselle is aware that sleeping with a human would be a bad idea but something about Luke just calls to her. As they are continuously taunted by Bryce and Cynthia, ignoring their mutual attraction becomes something that Giselle and Luke find impossible but one night will change everything. Giselle knows she will have to leave Luke behind but will she also leave her heart? This series of books about humans mating with werewolves had eluded me until now .I've read only one other book by Ms Lewis Thompson (Casual Hex) so expected something quite similar with a light tone and a romance. This is still essentially a paranormal romance but there is an awful lot of sexual content which some readers might find off putting. I hasten to reassure that it's all consensual and loving, but for me I would have preferred more storyline and plot. The hero Luke has to be one of the most sensitive and caring male characters I have read about in a long time and the heroine Giselle is quite savvy and very good at persuading others to see sense which I liked about her. It was interesting to see her get her point across without resulting to any brutish or animalistic behaviour which might be expected from a werewolf. I also found the supporting characters to be very engaging and really wanted more from them so perhaps they will get their own book or books? I did enjoy this book and it's an easy read that allowed me to just pretend I was in Las Vegas for a few hours. Quite a simple plot idea but it's not always essential to have dark angst ridden tales and a fun book often hits the spot. If you are new to this authors work then give it a go but remember, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!
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Falling Light
by
Thea Harrison
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: *Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review This is the second book in Thea Harrison's Game of Darkness series and concludes the journey of Mary and Michael that began in the previous book Rising Darkness. Fans of her Elder Races books will find this to be completely different to her other paranormal books as this time she brings aliens to her readers attention. Readers would definitely benefit from reading these books in order. Six thousand years ago an evil and murderous being escaped from prison seeking more power and destruction. He was followed to Earth by a handful of those who hoped to prevent him but they paid an enormous price. In order to journey to Earth they would forever remain here and continue to be reborn until their job was done. A noble sacrifice that has not always had a happy outcome and now just three remain to battle the one they know as The Deceiver. Mary has only recently discovered her true identity as one of those who gave up their own lives millennia ago to recapture The Deceiver. She is falling passionately in love with Michael who is without doubt her soulmate but learning to trust someone who she has little memory of is proving difficult. Having survived a recent attack by The Deciever who had used his power to quite literally body snatch her ex husbands body Mary is bewildered and unsure of her place in everything that's happening around her. Michael has no such doubts as he has spent lifetimes waiting for his soulmate to be reborn. His searching had seemed endless and yet now here she is and he's not going to let anything come between them again. Their only other ally is Astra but Michael isn't truly sure if she can be completely trusted. Like him Astra has been searching for thousands of years to recapture The Deceiver but she carries a dark secret that could destroy them all. As Mary and Michael journey further north they have become targets of those enslaved by the Deceiver and struggle to remain undetected but they can't hide forever and their showdown is closer then they think ! A much darker tale then the authors Elder Races stories and even though it has romance present this isn't the normal paranormal romance that Ms Harrison writes.It's a book that allows the reader to spend lots of time in the characters thoughts as although it contains action scenes there is a lot of information shared with the reader. As Mary discovers her past so do we but that could make the pace a little slow for some readers. Strong world building but not really a traditional paranormal romance to me. Interesting characters and the use of psychic connections helped bring the story to life . Loving the use of natural energy and spirits and found it original and well written.
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Night Owls
by
Lauren M. Roy
Michelle Olson
, March 03, 2014
Our Review by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle *eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 3.5 Skulls Night Owls takes place in a semi-closed society. Our heroine, Val, a bookstore owner who used to be a Hunter (and is a vampire), tries to exist quietly with her Renfield Chaz and a group of unlikely allies, a couple of succubi, 2 ex Brotherhood members, and a human until a group of vicious, bloodthirsty Jackals come to town and the entire gang must go on the offensive. The book was well written, it had delightful characters, interesting world building, fun dialogue, and some cool twists. Did I love it? No. Was it worth the read. Certainly. Miss Roy deserves kudos for coming into a genre so steeped in material that it is hard to find something unique with exactly that, some new material. She also takes us back to the old days of Urban Fantasy where there really was no romance. It was all about the world, the characters and the story arc. Even though I personally didn't love it, it was very enjoyable and looks to be an exciting start to a great new urban fantasy series. I'll definitely tune in for book #2.
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Wakeworld Between Book 2
by
Kerry Schafer
Michelle Olson
, February 25, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle *ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review I said in my review of Between, book #1 of the series, that this was an Urban Fantasy unlike anything I had experienced before, and one that I wanted to get lost in again. When I got word that Wakeworld was available, I was excited to dive in. Wakeworld picks up right where Between left off, but I think if you were coming into this book as a first time reader you could catch on easily enough... Kerry broadened the scope of The Between series by introducing yet another dimension, some supe groups we hadn't encountered yet, and a really nasty new antagonist. She also brought in another hero, and his story allowed Vivian's story to evolve some more as well. Between felt very much like your favorite childhood fairytales turned on their head. Wakeworld felt less like that, but did stick to embracing the higher fantasy elements that I loved from book #1, and even took those to another level with the introduction of the new creatures, the continuing evolution of Vivian's dragon side, and more. Like the first of the series, the book doesn't start out like a bullet, it ramps up nicely and once it hits the plateau, all bets are off and it's an edge of your seat thrill ride until the end, whereupon you'll be wishing for the next immediately. The characters and world building of THE BETWEEN are fabulous, and the second book of the series made each stronger. Readers that enjoy their Urban Fantasy with some dragons and high fantasy elements, as well as a slightly ethereal edge will likely find Between and Wakewold enjoyable, especially if you're not looking for instant HEA's for your protagonists. :)
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Spider Elemental Assassin 10
by
Jennifer Estep
Michelle Olson
, January 11, 2014
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta: --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls This series is Urban Fantastic at it's very best! A world not unlike our own is explored, but the addition of magic and supernatural creatures adds to the fun. This is a series well worth reading from the beginning, but this - the 10th book - is a prequel of sorts, so in many ways, a good place for new readers to start. Although the story begins in the present, the author has cleverly allowed the lead character Gin to take a trip down memory lane and what an intriguing journey it is. Gin is an assassin who is known as The Spider. She is very unusual, as she can control not one element, but two - Stone and Ice. Trained by the notorious Tin Man, she has learned to be careful about the hits that she takes on, but she wasn't always as honed in her abilities and in this book we get to peek at her past exploits and realize just how far Gin's journey has taken her. The Tin Man had given Gin an assignment, but something just didn't quite make sense. If the information they'd been given was correct, why did it seem as if something or someone was off? The younger Gin is more trusting and possibly a lot more naive, but her deadly skills are never in doubt. Gin's target seems to be a straight forard one, but she makes a costly mistake, and it's one that she could live to regret. Heartbreak and death can sometimes be linked! Love this tough heroine that Ms. Estep writes about, but in this book we get to see a different side of her, which just opened her up even more. Loving that some of the regular characters in the series popped up as it added to the fun, and it's really nice to get inside Gin's head and see through her complicated layers. The ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN series is never afraid to tackle revenge, and Gin never shies away from it either. If you are looking for a heroine whom is never afraid to be brutal, then you will lap up these books! A world of magic that is seldom black or white, and full of action and danger. There's humor in these books as well, but most of all, the author always gives her readers a fabulous story. Go get yours!!
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Wild Justice Nadia Stafford
by
Kelley Armstrong
Michelle Olson
, December 31, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: Wild Justice was an incredible conclusion to a wonderful crime drama series, and worth the wait (even though it sucked to have to...). :) Our heroine, Nadia Stafford, is a former police officer turned assassin. She also owns and runs a wilderness lodge in Canada. She is independent, tough as nails, and a little quirky. Her moral code is a little different than most assassins, wherein... she has one. She generally only takes jobs that border on vigilantism, righting a wrong where justice wasn't served as it should have been. Her past built her that way, and instead of turning inward, she uses her dark sides to 'help others, while using her double life to live the way she's always wanted. Wild Justice starts out with a bang. There is a job that goes awry, and it messes with Nadia's head a bit. After this, Kelley fully immerses us in a whirlwind of revelation, mystery, character growth, action, drama, emotion and heat. We learn that things we suspected in previous books about Nadia's past are correct (and even worse than we had imagined), we learn more about the mysterious Jack, the clandestine society that has been courting Nadia is revealed and its true colors are shown, the persons responsible for Nadia's tragic past are heavily involved in the storyline and make for some gripping page time, Jack and Nadia finally stop dancing around the inevitable, and it's all tied up nicely with a bunch of action, drama, and intrigue. I was very pleased with the conclusion of the series. It felt 'real' to me, and was true to the characters - nothing seemed forced or hurried. Kudos to Kelley for giving us NADIA STAFFORD fans what we had been waiting and hoping for. Still (and probably forever) a Kelley Armstrong fangirl!
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Born in Blood
by
Alexandra Ivy
Michelle Olson
, December 21, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 4 1/2 Skulls Born in Blood was an awesome start to what is looking to be an amazing new series by the ever talented Alexandra Ivy! This first installment delivers some fabulous characters, an interesting new world, danger, action, intrigue, and just enough romance to keep you flipping pages with rapt interest. Premise: High-bloods, those with preternatural abilities, are known about, but not overtly accepted. In order to minimize the hostility from the norms, the gifted generally hang out in Valhalla (a parallel dimension). There are times, however, when the 2 worlds must collide, as is the case when our hero Duncan and heroine Callie come together to investigate a string of murders with seemingly supernatural causes. Born in Blood was dark yet witty, mysterious yet solidly built.. basically the perfect balance between urban fantasy and paranormal romance. I've been an Alexandra Ivy fangirl for QUITE awhile, and am absolutely loving this peek into the new corner of her imagination. I can't wait for more!
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Slashback Cal Leandros 8
by
Rob Thurman
Michelle Olson
, December 20, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Alluring Angel ��" Kathy: --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls Slashback, the 8th book in Rob Thurman’s Cal Leandros series, is a gritty, good vs. evil compelling read. The bond shared between brothers Cal and Niko is the driving force that propels this story. Slashback finds Cal and Niko thrust into the crosshairs of a supernatural killer unlike any that they have encountered before. How do you fight and kill something that seemingly can’t be stopped? Sometimes you just got to take of leap of faith and when the only thing you have faith in is each other, that leap can be a deadly one. The action in Slashback is nonstop. And the “us against the world” mentality of the Leandros brothers, continues to tighten the brotherly bonds. Slashback grabs the reader’s attention from the start and doesn’t let go until the end.
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The Havoc Machine
by
Steven Harper
Michelle Olson
, December 20, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Alluring Angel ��" Kathy: --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls The Havoc Machine by Steven Harper is a steampunk gem. It is the 4th book in his The Clockwork Empire series, but is written in such a way that The Havoc Machine could be read as a stand alone. A plague has swept across the world, turning it’s victims into slowly dying plague zombies, with a few victims becoming mad geniuses referred to as clockworkers. Thaddeus Sharpe’s son is killed by a clockworker, and so he dedicated his life to finding and destroying clockworkers and their horrible creations. The Havoc Machine is a fast paced, action filled adventure with an unexpected amount of heartfelt emotion. I truly enjoyed The Havoc Machine.
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Bronze Gods Apparatus Infernum 01
by
A. A. Aguirre
Michelle Olson
, December 20, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Alluring Angel ��" Kathy: Bronze Gods by A. A. Aguirre is a mix of fantasy, steam punk and crime solving mystery. I liked the story and the two main characters quite a lot, but I must admit that I found some of the plot lines kind of predictable. Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko are two police detectives. He is a wild card with the ability to read people. She is logical and methodical. They couldn’t be more unalike and yet together they solve more cases than anyone else in the Criminal Investigation Division. When they are assigned a missing persons case, they discover more is at hand that a lost heiress. Following several deaths, the city becomes a powder keg and Mikani and Ritsuko must sift through scant clues and try to stop a magic using killer before mob violence erupts. The chemistry between Mikani and Ritsuko propels this story. Bronze Gods is the first book in a new series and I plan to read the next installment when it is released.
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Generation V
by
M. L. Brennan
Michelle Olson
, December 20, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Alluring Angel ��" Kathy: --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls I love it when I discover an author who’s writing captures me from page one. Generation V is M. L. Brennan’s first foray in a full length Urban Fantasy. And what a debut. Generation V introduces us to Fortitude Scott, the good hearted and slightly dorky guy who happens to be a vampire. Well, almost a vampire. M. L. Brennan’s take on the creation of vampires is original and creepy. When a mother and father are murdered and two young sisters are kidnapped, Fortitude believes that it is the sadistic work of a visiting vampire. But because of vampire politics, Fort’s mother won’t take any action regarding the missing human children. So with the help of a smart mouthed Kitsune, he decides to try to save the girls himself. But taking on a vampire when you are not yet fully vampire yourself, odds are not in your favor. The author’s deft hand at witty dialogue and snort worthy snark combined with a dark and bloody story line, makes Generation V a book that I would recommend to all fans of Urban Fantasy. Fortitude Scott is a one of a kind hero. Can’t wait to read the next installment.
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The Accidental Werewolf 2: Something about Harry
by
Dakota Cassidy
Michelle Olson
, December 20, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Vivacious Valkyrie ��" Marta: *eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review Well Dakota Cassidy has done it again and written another hilarious offering in her popular Accidentally Friends series, this one is number 8 I believe and sure to delight her fans. Shy werewolf Mara Flaherty has carved a career for herself as a chemist at Pack cosmetics but there are just two things she still really wants. One is a child of her own and the second? Well that just happens to be the uber sexy but conservative accountant Harry Ralph Emerson. Only problem is Harry seems oblivious to her fumbling overtures and there's no one else she's that attracted to. Using her skills she creates a serum that could help her get pregnant with her own werewolf cub but problem is it gets drank by mistake and unfortunately the unlucky person is Harry and suddenly he finds himself not just an accountant but an accountant sprouting fur! Not given to panic Harry goes online and finds an organisation calling themselves Out In The Open Paranormal Support -OOPS- and having done their quiz comes to the worse possible conclusion, that he's turning into a werewolf! Calling them for help he gets more than he bargained for as the snarky vampire on the phone just doesn't seem to appreciate his predicament. When help does arrive Harry quickly learns that not only has he changed but just about everything he believed in was a lie as well. Finding out he's been working with supernatural creatures is just the beginning . Mara, who he'd secretly liked is responsible for his transformation and he's expected to keep it a secret as she would be in trouble with her pack. Mild mannered Harry suddenly finds himself at the mercy of his inner beast and it looks like he knows just who to unleash it on. Mara's mortified at what's happened but together with her friends is convinced they will be able to help Harry if only he would let them! Finding out he has two small children at home to look after complicates things and the small matter of Maras libido where Harry's concerned doesn't help, but when the children are threatened Harry and Mara have to work together. These books are usually a riot and this one was no different. Ms Cassidy writes a delightful contemporary paranormal tale that's full of fun. Not intended as dark or particularly erotic but warm, amusing fantasy. Her rich characters jump off the page and although not always likeable (snarky vampires!)they are vibrant and full of life. Frequent popular culture references had this reader laughing out loud but what remains with me is the loving and close relationships that her characters share. A delightful read to brighten the dullest day!
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Full Throttle
by
Erin Mccarthy
Michelle Olson
, December 19, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Vivacious Valkyrie ��" Marta: *eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review Full Throttle is the latest offering from Erin McCarthy in her Fast Track series. This series features strong women, determined men and is set within the racing world. This her seventh novel in the series takes the reader on a ride behind the scenes of this male dominated world. Shawn Hamby has recently lost her grandfather who raised her when her parents broke up. He taught her all he knew about running his racing circuit and at thirty two all she dreams about is keeping it afloat. She's always been a bit of a tomboy and isn't afraid to work hard for what she wants but her world is about to come crashing down when she finds out the conditions in her grandfather's will. On a wild night out with friends at a local fetish club Shawn meets Rhett Ford, seven years her junior and her best friends brother in law. Fearing the complications and unsure about his obviously dominating nature Shawn backtracks quickly away from him but Rhett has other ideas. Tracking her down he tempts her as no other man has for a long time .Shawn's used to playing by her own rules and she takes him up on his offer of a drink. Whilst enjoying his company she has a crazy idea how to solve her problem over her grandfather's will and offers him a challenge. Rhett is determined to get to know this woman inside and out , both in and out of the bedroom and it looks as if the race is on! Ok this is my first book by this author but that didn't detract in any way from this read. I don't feel it's essential to have read this series in order to enjoy this book. Whilst I'm not a great fan of books set in the sporting world I found that this tale hardly featured the racing world at all. The action and story are set away from it and it's a completely wild story. Whilst not wishing to give too much away I will say that Rhett has a very kinky side. He's determined to ensure his ladies maximum satisfaction even if she's not sure what she wants. Be prepared for long slow loving from a very dominant man! I liked Shawn as she's a confident woman who deserves happiness and Rhett is written as a very loyal and straight talking character. This is an author who knows how to write and this sensuous romance was a very satisfying read. Sure to delight her fans and I enjoyed it from start to finish!
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Bitter Spirits
by
Jenn Bennett
Michelle Olson
, December 19, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Vivacious Valkyrie ��" Marta: *eARC Received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review The first of this authors new work called appropriately enough Roaring Twenties series! Yes the series is actually set in the time of flappers and prohibition! Not a time period I know a lot about but clearly Ms Bennett has done her research and immerses her readers in a time long gone by. This the first of the series tells how spiritualist and medium Aida Palmer first meets notorious bootlegger Winter Magnusson. Aida is working at a speakeasy in Chinatown. Her act helps to both comfort and entertain the curious audience but Aida is the genuine article and able to both summon and despatch the dead.Asked by her employer to use her powers to get rid permanently of a ghost that's started haunting Winter she's immediately intrigued by the hulking giant. From the moment they meet the attraction is off the charts but the first order of business is helping Winter get rid of the powerful curse that's dogging him. Winter is a man of secrets and his scarred appearance has made him distrustful of women but the feelings he has for the enigmatic Aida will not be denied. Finding out who has cursed him is proving more difficult than he thought and he turns yet again to Aida for assistance. The fact that he just wants an excuse to spend time with her is something Winter tries to keep to himself but when the supernatural attacks start to escalate her safety is all he can think about. Their mutual attraction can be denied no more but danger is stalking them. This is one Chinese puzzle that really needs solving! I absolutely loved this! I have previously read the authors Arcadia Bell books which I'd describe as paranormal with a sensuous romance. They are books brought to life with emotion but this book was completely different! From the very beginning this book throbbed with sexual tension and was completely addictive. I just didn't want to put it down as the pages practically caught fire! Yes it's full of heat but it's also a humorous read and the mystery and danger just lift this above the usual paranormal novel. It's a complex storyline that will have the reader guessing and sure to inspire others to write about this exciting and dangerous time. Thoroughly enjoyable and I for one will be anxious to read any follow up. Definitely recommended!
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Melting the Ice
by
Jaci Burton
Michelle Olson
, December 19, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Vivacious Valkyrie ��" Marta: *eARC received by the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review Jaci Burton writes books that are without a doubt sexy, romantic and full of characters to fall in love with. This is the latest in her Play By Play series which is set in the world of sport and this time she's exposing a certain ice hockey player to her readers. If you haven't read her books before then maybe start with The Perfect Play but this story can be read as a standalone . Eight years ago Carolina spent one blissful night in the arms of the one man she had always wanted. Drew was celebrating his graduation and couldn't believe his luck when the enchanting Carolina said she wanted him. He'd always avoided her as his best friend is her brother but that night lust and alcohol just stole all his good sense. Carolina was devastated when in the cold light of day it was obvious that to Drew it was just a one time only thing. Now she's making a life for herself and the one thing she doesn't need is any reminder of her past mistake. Carolina is trying to make a name for herself in the fashion world and asks her brother to model for her. He's happy to help but before she can stop him he contacts his best friend Drew to ask him about modelling Carolina's clothes. Having a sporting icon would be good publicity but the last thing Carolina wants is to spend any time with ice hockey professional Drew. Problem is Drew seems more than happy to help and Carolina can't help but feel that he's trying to manipulate her in some way. Drew realises that he behaved like an immature idiot in the past and wants to show Carolina that he's grown up. Working together could give him plenty of opportunity to show Carolina that he's changed and if he's lucky maybe he can get the chance to show her that he's now ready for something more meaningful. Drew is still the man that Carolina fantasies about but there's no way she will let him break her heart again. Yet Drew is constantly surprising her and Carolina starts to see the man that he has become. Will her family accept him in her life and just where are they heading?There's no denying the passion between them but can Carolina really forgive him? This is the seventh book in this fast paced series and as usual it's a very heated tale! This author writes books that are definitely hot enough to melt ice! A steamy read is always guaranteed when you buy one of these books. Absolutely gorgeous cover that will certainly attract attention and characters with heart that readers will care about. This book will certainly make any reader smile as the hero Drew pursues his lady. Luckily she stops running long enough for him to catch her!
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The Devil's in the Details
by
Kimberly Raye
Michelle Olson
, December 13, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *ARC provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review Ahhh, Kim's back! :) The Devil's in the Details gives us love, laughs, mystery, mayhem, snark, and some super fun characters. Our heroine, Jess, is cute, fun, sassy, and a bit of a mess (in a empty calorie obsessed, hopeless romantic sort of way), who's also a succubus, wedding planner extraordinaire, and the devil's daughter. Cutter is an awesome hero, and while he doesn't play a huge role, the tension between them is super fun. If you're a Dead End Dating fan, you will really enjoy this book. Jess is almost as funny as Lil, and has grounds to be just as spunky as the series continues. It's obvious that she has the penchant for getting herself in over her head just as easily as well. :) With that said, TDitD is an absolute must read for Lil/DED fans, but if you're new to Kimberly Raye's awesome work, this is a good place to start as well. I'm so happy to have a Kimberly Raye witty and wacky heroine to love and follow again. I really enjoyed this light, fun read and am definitely looking forward to more in this world.
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Wake to Darkness
by
Maggie Shayne
Michelle Olson
, December 13, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *eARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review Wake to Darkness was another truly epic and tantalizing read in the Brown and de Luca universe. Maggie introduced a wonderful twist on the antagonist, some serious character growth and development, and plenty more of what we all want - Rachel snark, Mason goodness, and Myrtle. :) This second installment picks up a few months after the events of Sleep With the Lights on, though this book could stand alone (although I wouldn't suggest it, you're missing some fantastic reading!). Like book #1, there's a killer on the loose, but this time, the culprit is targeting recipients of Eric's organs, and in a twist from book #1, Rachel has dreams from the perspective victims this time, not the killer, which lends a truly heightened emotional edge to the events that unfold. The family dynamic in this installment is a large part of the story, and it was great to get more info on both Rachel's family and Mason's and watch as they helped to bring Rachel and Mason's on again, off again relationship status to a head. Finally! And there are most certainly some sexy moments to enjoy... just sayin'. While I did see the identity of our killer before it was ultimately revealed, it didn't detract from the big reveal at all, and Maggie most definitely shook things up with this big bad. :) Another superb read Maggie!
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Edge of Darkness
by
J. T. Geissinger
Michelle Olson
, December 13, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *eARC received via the Publisher from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review J.T never fails to captivate with her Night Prowler novels, and from the very start of this installment she had me saying 'wow' once again. Edge of Darkness is a delightful mix of intrigue, action, drama and romance with a decidedly Dan Brown antagonist feel, it was a wonderful read. Edge of Darkness's hero is Leander's younger brother, Christian, who has willingly offered himself up for a suicide missing to keep the Clan's secrets and defeat their nemesis. Our heroine is just like us... a plainly beautiful woman who doesn't believe she's pretty and hides behind baggy clothes and books. Their interactions are not at all easy and fluffy. There is tension galore, and the secrets that each of them are keeping just adds to the intrigue. This installment of the series focuses a lot more on the Ikati in their human lives, and therefore is a bit different than the other books thus far. It's a little slower, but steady in its grip. Fans of both J.T Geissinger and Dan Brown will certainly see some influence in this book with both the very beginning and the other villain that the couple must overcome. I've read some low rated reviews because of this, but there are very few books out there that don't have similarities, and if you like both of these authors as much as I do, why not just enjoy the ride!? I gave the book an easy 4 skulls and still highly recommend this series!
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Darkness Splintered
by
Keri Arthur
Michelle Olson
, November 10, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *ARC received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review There are simply not enough skulls to give this series, and it's almost unfathomable how they can get better, more thrilling, more heart breaking, more... insanely good, with each installment. Simply perfection, Keri! While the ending of book #5 gave loyal fans answers that we had been seeking, the nasty cliff-hanger also opened up an entirely new subplot and enabled the series for even more darkness, danger and suspense, which made Darkness Splintered an insanely good read. Risa and Azriel's relationship is even more intense with complicated trust issues, Azriel holding back, Risa forever putting herself into harm's way, enemies and threats popping up around every corner and more, and because of all of this (and things that I can't divulge because they would be super spoilers), the evolution of their part of the series arc has reached new and incredible heights. I know this review doesn't do the book justice, but I simply cannot say more without giving some serious secrets away. I will say this... I loved it, and while I couldn't put it down, even after the last page was turned, I wanted more. There was some amazing action, intense drama, steamy romance, shocking surprise, and the character evolution was superb. This series remains at the top of my favorite UF series list and I cannot recommend it highly enough. I strongly suggest reading the books in order though.
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Black & Blue
by
Gena Showalter
Michelle Olson
, October 28, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *Audiobook Gena is back with Black and Blue and the OTHERWORLD ASSASSINS! This book had all of the wit, heat, action, heart and drama I've come to know, love and crave from Gena Showalter, and then some. I will even go so far as to say that Black and Blue became my 3rd favorite Showalter book of all time. :) I loved the ALIEN HUNTRESS series, and after Last Kiss Goodnight, wasn't totally sure what my thoughts were on OTHERWORLD ASSASSIN. Black and Blue sucked me in to this new spin-off world and left me wanting more and more. There was some overlap of timeframe between Last Kiss Goodnight and Black and Blue. Last Kiss was told from Solo's point of view, and Black and Blue is from Blue's. Gena's writing in this book was phenomenal. You could tell that she became a part of her characters. They literally leapt off of the page and I was laughing out loud on so many occasions I finally had to stop listening in public. :) The exceptionally witty dialogue, one-liners, and absurd nicknames from Corbin and Evie were stellar. And even with the light-heartedness, the drama, danger, and action was well thought out and integral to the storyline. Evie puts Blue in his place, shakes him to the core, they literally save the day, and fall in love besides. I also loved the overlap of stories, and can only assume that the next book of the series will be for John No Last Name, the mysterious golden boy.... George did a wonderful job with the narration, and I will definitely be looking forward to listening to more from him. He has the perfect cadence and wry tone that these books need. An easy 5 skulls and highly recommended for all paranormal romance readers. All Gena Showalter fans will adore this book...
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Black Heart
by
Christina Henry
Michelle Olson
, October 28, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *eARC received from the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls Another absolutely intoxicating read by Ms. Henry! Black Heart wasn't quite as action packed as the last 2 installments of the BLACK WINGS series in my opinion, but it was gripping, dark, sexy, and utterly intriguing, with lots of new and different stuff to love and enjoy. I said it wasn't as action packed, but that doesn't mean it was slow by any stretch of the imagination. This book just got more and more intense as the pages were turned, I couldn't wait to see what would happen next, and while I didn't think it possible, Christina has reached yet another level of 'wonderful' with her writing; the character evolution and growth was stellar, the world building superb, and the core the the story and series - its heart if you will - grabbed me and wouldn't let go. So without spoiling things what do you have to look forward to? We're finally introduced to Puck and Lucifer's other brother Daharan, there's a whole new (and wonderful) sub-world to explore, Maddy embraces her dark side, there's a scene that long time fans will absolutely adore, and SO much more! I've been saying (and RAVING about) it book after book, but Black Heart is dark, it's intense, and it's really a catalyst to the series (or even a possible spin-off if Christina decides to go that route). This is an absolute must read for all BLACK WINGS fans, and I highly recommend it for all Urban Fantasy lovers. I do suggest reading the series in order though, especially with this book, there is just too much history you'd miss if you didn't. I promise you will not be disappointed you did! As my quote on the cover states, this series just gets better and better!
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Cursed
by
S. J. Harper
Michelle Olson
, October 18, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Devilish Diva - Shawnie: *eBook gifted by LITERAL ADDICTION to write an honest review Emma Monroe is an F.B.I. Agent with a twist - she's a cursed Siren. Cursed by the Gods to live for one thing... Redemption. Her siren abilities help her to solve the missing persons cases she is assigned and she is good at what she does. But her routine life is about to get a shake up with the help of Agent Zachary Armstrong. Her knew partner, in solving crime. Zach is a werewolf, with a past darker than he wants it to be, and he too is on a path of redemption. When the chance to start over in a different state come to him, he transfers to the San Diego field office and doesn't look back. But there are fractions that don't want to let him go, and she has followed him to San Diego. These two are similar in ways Emma doesn't want to admit, and there is no way she can or will admit to the attraction she feels towards Zach. The willing attraction between the two of them that has nothing to do with her powers. I was a disappointed with Emma because it just felt like she gave Zach the third degree about his life, but she refused to speak about hers. All her talk about trust, made me feel like she was bullsh*ting. There was many a times where I wanted to just stop reading. Right off the bat you can tell Zach's a good guy, who'd been dealt a bad hand early in life, but he's making up for it. They click together like missing pieces of a puzzle, but Emma wants to keep their relationship strictly professional. She at times seems like a super b**ch the way she comes at Zach, but he holds his own and doesn't let her get away with anything when it comes to talking about their lives. I warmed up to her once she got the stick out her butt, but that didn't even last long. She is so busy worrying about what others will think and do that she doesn't stop to think about what she does to people. The ending made me mad, and it took everything not to give this book a two star review off the ending alone. But that wouldn't have been fair. A nasty part of me hopes the decision she made comes back to bite her on the ass, in my humble opinion she doesn't deserve anything off that one act. The case was amazing, it was unexpected and brilliantly written on and then explained. I couldn't have imagined any of it. I am going to patiently wait for book and two and hope it doesn't upset me like this one did. This is the first book though, it was bound to have some rough edges. Honest rating 4 SKulls.
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Art of Stealing Time A Time Thief Novel
by
Katie Macalister
Michelle Olson
, October 07, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: I was completely geared up for this book. I thoroughly enjoyed Time Thief, thought it was genius and fresh, and then after Time Crossed I was salivating because let's be honest, that was just a dirty tease. I'll be honest though, I got a good 30% into The Art of Stealing Time and was a bit worried. It just wasn't moving as fast as I had anticipated and I was waiting for something big to happen to kick things into gear. And then they entered Anwyn... From that point on, it was the fantastic laugh-out-loud paranormal romance that I've come to know and love from the lovely Ms. MacAlister and I couldn't get enough! The TIME THIEF universe is incredibly unique to begin with, it's fresh, and multidimensional with subtle and overt nuances that make it decidedly its own. But in The Art of Stealing Time, Katie introduces another layer, the Welsh underworld, Anwyn and it's Alice-in-Wonderlandesque cast of characters. Our heroine, Gwen, is an Alchemist with two trouble prone Wiccan mothers. While trying to clean up yet another of their messes, she finds herself a person of interest and target for several groups and her life becomes infinitely more complicated. Our hunky hero, Gregory, is the cousin of Peter Faa (the hero of book #1). He has just taken a probationary job with the Watch (sort of the supernatural police) when they're tipped off to some illicit activity that needs investigation. While doing so, Gregory crosses paths with Gwen and their lives and fates become inexplicably tangled. MacAlister's books always make me laugh and this one is no exception. I enjoyed visiting the Welsh afterlife and can't wait to see where the next book in the Time Thief series will take me! Anwyn was a trip! The place is crazy, the people even more so, and the magic and history that make up the very fabric of what Gwen and Gregory are thrown into is utterly fascinating. It was also so vividly written, and so perfectly entwined with the characters' stories, that I felt like I could literally see things as they happened and feel what went on as it did. I loved it! The tension between Gregory and Gwen was stellar, and I think I enjoyed their tale so much because it was hard earned. There was no simply falling into bed for these two. There were trials, tribulations, bonds to break, trust to earn and so much more before they even gave it a go, and even then, things weren't completely balanced. It was anxiety riddled and fantastic to read. Take that, add in some truly off the wall and loveable supporting characters, some epic one-liners and snark for the ages, heart pumping action, and PLENTY of surprise and you get The Art of Stealing Time. I most definitely recommend this book, but I strongly suggest reading the series in order - Time Thief, Time Crossed and then The Art of Stealing Time - to get the most out of this novel. I also recommend that you stick it out through the slower set up pieces at the beginning of the book because once they hit Anwyn, it's non-stop goodness. I can't wait to see what Katie has in store in Traveller-verse next...
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Death and the Girl He Loves
by
Darynda Jones
Michelle Olson
, October 07, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *ARC Received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review Death and the Girl He Loves was a nice conclusion to the DARKLIGHT trilogy. Was it my favorite of the series? No. Was it interesting, compelling, and worth recommending. Absolutely! This installment was quite a bit more somber and serious than the previous two. Since the moment Lorelei found out about her heritage, she has known that she was the key to stopping a war, however, she never knew how, or when, and nobody could (or would) tell her. As the end draws near, Lorelei's stress ratchets ever higher, and her self doubt skyrockets. Add to that the fact that she's literally foreseen the deaths of everyone she loves and is convinced that she just CAN'T stop what's to come, and she's kind of a mess. As she and the rest of the gang try to come up with ways to literally stop the apocalypse and change fate, she systematically works through these complex layers and attempts to find her center. While I enjoyed all of that, found the seriousness necessary, and loved the journey and growth of the characters, I missed the snark and wit. There just weren't as many one liners, snippy comebacks, silly escapades and practical jokes as there were in the previous 2 books, and while my brain understood the necessity for the solemnity, my heart longed for the level of Darynda Jones snark and with that I've come to crave. I will say this, where the book 'grew up' and swapped fun for seriousness in my opinion, it didn't turn into a stodgy old biddy shut in at home. The level of action was as great, if not better, than the previous 2 books. In addition, the suspense and surprise in this installment were amazing. The plot twist was very unexpected for me, and at first, I was honestly really confused. Then, as it was all laid out and explained, I thought it was kinda brilliant! :) All in all, Death and the Girl He Loves was an engaging read that I would recommend. I do recommend reading the entire series in order, however, as there is just way too much history for the book to stand well on its own.
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Bound by Night
by
Larissa Ione
Michelle Olson
, October 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle: *eARC received from Edelwiess I love delving into the imagination of Larissa Ione, and having a new world and new characters to get lost in was amazing. Did I love it as much as Demonica or Lords of Deliverance, no, but did I thoroughly enjoy it? Absolutely!! Bound by Night has alpha males with attitude & snarkiness that we've come to know and love from Larissa, strong females, a world built on intricate history, a story rife with tension, emotion and drama... It was all there and more. Plus I absolutely loved how Larissa drew on her Native American roots with Vampires, when we generally only see that with Weres & Shifters. All in all, my first impression thoughts here, I really enjoyed Bound by Night and will certainly be looking forward to the coming books of the series - there was so much opportunity set up in book one for some truly incredible characters' stories, it will be a joy to take their journeys when the time comes. Definitely recommended and I am certainly looking forward to August of 2014 for Chained by Night, Hunter's book.
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Deep in Crimson
by
Sarah Gilman
Michelle Olson
, September 25, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION'S Nocturnal Nymph - Michelle M: *eARC received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review Deep in Crimson was the first book that I have read of Sarah Gilman's and this book was excellent! Demons and Angels together?! Who would have thought that they would be working on the same side? I certainly didn't... This book pulled me in by the first couple of pages. First we meet Jett, a demon that highly distrusts other demons after he was raised in a lab. Jett smells something off, and after debating on whether or not he wants to find out what's going on, he runs to investigate. While there, we meet Lexine, a demon with a rare demon deformity whose brother has just been kidnapped. Lexine has had dreams about who her mate is, but then meets Jett and wonders if it's possible to change fate? Will Jett stay in Sanctuary and take a chance at love? Sarah's writing is great, and keeps the reader engaged with the storyline. The Guardians are trying to find Lexine's kidnapped brother and looking for the place where the lab is, all while things are happening in Sanctuary. It's all a very exciting ride of emotions and trying to find where one demon fits when he didn't know if he could ever fit in anywhere. Also, is it possible to find love? I will for sure go back and read number 1 and then I will be re-reading this book because it is that good! I found myself wondering about some of the characters and hope there are more coming for this series! I want to know more!! A well deserved 5 skulls and highly recommended.
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Blood Bond
by
Jeanne C. Stein
Michelle Olson
, September 20, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Kathy M: --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls Jeanne C. Stein is a top notch writer of fast paced Urban Fantasy and her creation of the Anna Strong series has been one of my favorites. The first eight books in this series are what you would expect from a well written Urban Fantasy - a kick ass heroine, fights to the death with evil doers,betrayal, and unexpected twists and turns. Blood Bond is different. And different isn't always a bad thing. Blood Bond slightly steps off the normal Urban Fantasy path and gives the reader a more emotion driven road. Relationships, both romantic and familial, are front and center in this final installment. Will Anna finally open up her heart and let Frey in? How will she cope with the impending death of her mother? Etc. Blood Bond takes us on Anna's emotional journey and when I closed the book after reading the final page, I realized that this was the perfect way to say goodbye to Anna. Recommended for all ANNA STRONG fans.
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Cursed League of the Black Swan 01
by
Alyssa Day
Michelle Olson
, September 08, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Shawnie: *eBook gifted by LITERAL ADDICTION in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls The Cursed is set in a backdrop of New York City, Manhattan to be precise, but nothing is as it seems. Welcome to Bordertown. Luke Oliver is Bordertown's resident 'dark and mysterious wizard;, and has been trying to keep a low profile. Nobody can hide forever though, and the past has a way of catching up you; no matter who you are. After having an interesting conversation with Maestro, an active member of the Order, in which he's given an envelope that contains a photograph of a young woman and nothing else, Luke is shaken; he knows the woman. He's seen her around his office building when she stops in to deliver packages, and he wants her like nothing else. Even though he's been trying to stay away from her and keep his feelings under wraps - for reasons he can never explain to her - he still feels like he knows her and things just don't add up. The burning question of the hour... Why does the League want the woman? And why do they want Luke, of all people, involved? Rio Jones - just one of the many names she uses as a shield to keep people at a distance - is an enigma. She's a 24 year old Bike Messenger in Bordertown, and her employer is a Siren. She didn't have an easy life, and from what Alyssa allows us to read in The Cursed, it's still not easy (sorry, no spoilers). After growing up in an orphanage run by a convent, Rio's got more scars and unanswered questions than she is willing to deal with, but it all comes out in the wash ��" or rather when she's twenty-four hours away from turning 25. The book starts out simmering, and then explodes into an all out rat race as Rio and Luke try to figure out exactly what's going on, and determine why everyone wants Rio. Turning twenty-five is significant in the supernatural world, but Rio doesn't think there is anything supernatural about her. Yeah, she can read minds, but that's nothing serious. Little does she know that things are about to get REAL serious, when two different factions basically start a war in their attempt to get her for themselves and keep her away from the other. I have to say, I was hesitant with this book, but I'm glad I got the chance to read it. I can totally see myself reading the next installments of the series. The love story that paralleled the main storyline was great. Luke and Rio had to come to terms with themselves and each other, but once they did, they were all in. My only complaint was that the book took awhile to get to where it was all going. All of the running around and the secrets/hints about who Rio really was, etc was annoying at times, yet hilarious at others. I give this 4 1/2 skulls, and absolutely recommend it.
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The Fifth Favor
by
Shelby Reed
Michelle Olson
, September 04, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Marta C: This book is a heartbreaking tale of the shady world of gigolos and the women who seek them out. It's set in a very select club -Avalon- where affluent women seek out male company. Billie is a reporter for the magazine Illicit that has been granted an in-depth interview with one of their most experienced male companions, Adrian. She's unsure what to expect from their meeting, but from the outset is intrigued by the very suave and sinful escort. Billie goes into her meeting with Adrian expecting something seedy and maybe even demeaning, but what she finds is a young man full of charm and guile. Adrian quickly turns the tables on Billie and proceeds to press buttons that she never knew she had. His almost incidental attempted seduction of her wakes her up to challenges she has never before encountered. Deeply attracted to Adrian and unsure just what his motives are, Billie finds herself becoming more then a little immersed in the sexy yet remote man. As they get to know each other Adrian takes charge more and it's apparent that his interest in her could reveal a part of himself that he tries to deny. Tragedy strikes when Luke a fellow gigolo feels that his life of excess and debauchery is pointless. ,Feeling an unrequited love for his friend, he commits suicide whilst staying at Adrian's apartment. Suspicions run high, and Billie finds her new feelings for Adrian tested as he struggles to prove his innocence. This is a book that surprised me. I expected it to be an erotic ride full of sex and thrills. Yes it is a sexy read, but the two main characters constantly keep each other at a distance in so many ways. It's a sensuous read full of hot interludes, but the author doesn't rush the pace. The build up between Adrian and Billie allows the reader to connect and care about them. A thoroughly engaging read that keeps you on the edge as you wait for the young couple to hopefully find a way forward together. Well done Ms.Reed on creating characters that actually grow as the book progresses! Recommended.
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Kinked Elder Races 6
by
Thea Harrison
Michelle Olson
, September 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Marta C: *eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review This is the sixth book in the fast moving Elder Races series about creatures based on myths. This is surely the most eagerly anticipated installment by those following this series. Readers who have followed the snarky and frequently dangerous Aryal, a sentinel who just happens to be a most cantankerous harpy, will surely rejoice as it's time for her to reveal her true self. Enter the sexy Quentin, a fellow sentinel who happens to be the one man that she is determined to get her talons into. Aryal knows he's hiding something and is not to be trusted; he's a criminal, and she fully intends to expose him no matter the cost. From the onset these two protagonists set the pages on fire! Their violent interchanges are truly jaw dropping in intensity. Realizing that Aryal won't give him a moments peace, Quentin snaps, and they have a dramatic encounter that results in them both being sent away by Dragos, Lord of the Wyr. Their mission? To remain together for the next few weeks to learn to either work in harmony or resign from their duties. Flying to Prague they begin their reconnaissance of Numenlaur -an abandoned Elven land - but the sexual tension between them continues to escalate and these two dominant characters scorch the page as they stop tip toeing around and go for the jugular! Each step they take challenges them and they will have to work together to survive unthinkable dangers. This was truly an amazing read right from the outset. These two people leap out off the page and into reality! It's almost impossible not to be aghast at their treatment of each other, and as their story unfolds, the reader is left stunned by the sheer animal magnetism that drives them both. This is not a comfortable easy read, and at times almost threatened to become hard core erotica, but Ms. Harrison managed to comfortably show warmth and passion in the two leads. Vulnerability has never been so sexy! :)
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Unbound
by
Cara McKenna
Michelle Olson
, August 31, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Shawnie: *eARC received from the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Unbound is a slow paced, life altering novel about finding one's self and embracing it, no matter the emotional strain. Acceptance at its finest... with just a "rope" of kink. Merry has lived in a shell that was entirely self made, but now after dropping a hundred pounds, she has decided to live and live big. Things aren't nearly as good as it use to be though, her best friend is not at all supportive, and Merry hasn't really accepted her new self. With all that, plus the death of her mother, she decides to take a trip. A three-week hike through the Scottish Highlands to get to know the new her, and to also see the place where her mother grew up. Of course, nothing goes as planned... After about two weeks hiking and roughing it (relatively speaking), Merry catches a virus of some sort that leaves her in pain, weak and dizzy. With a small stroke of luck, she remembers the cottage she'd seen during a hike, and starts out for it. Maybe not the smartest thing, but she's determined, and a little bit desperate. Rob is a self made recluse, and is perfectly fine with that. He lives a simple life with simple rules, and nobody bothers him. He's not the most gentle man, nor the nicest (even on good days), but when Merry knocks and screams at his door bloodied and sick, he can't bring himself to leave her to her fate. He can, however, hope that she gets better in the next 24 hours so she can get on with her business and stop bothering him. This story starts with a woman who doesn't know who she is anymore, and a man who is an antisocial, lonely recluse. These tortured souls throw caution to the wind, and decide to trust in one another, because what's a few secrets of the heart - and of the flesh - between strangers who will never see one another again? Soon these two find themselves in an all out tail spin of acceptance and indulgence; opening doors to each other that neither thought was possible. Through kink and open mindedness, they grow to care for one another, and watch as each grows into the person they were meant to be. Unbound is a book that drowns you in emotions, and the emotions are ones that you feel like a physical blow; emotions that leave you weak and sometimes unable to cope. I had to repeatedly get up to wash my face and gather myself in order to finish this book. I am probably out of tears at this point. It was worth it though. This books makes you take a step back and look at your own life. It makes you question everything. The best lesson learned from the book is this: Happiness is around several corners, but we have to have the courage and determination to go after it.
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Gossamer Wing
by
Delphine Dryden
Michelle Olson
, August 31, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Marta C: *eARC received from the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review This is the first book in Ms. Dryden's new Steampunk series entitled STEAM AND SEDUCTION. It's a book that captures the spirit of Steampunk whilst also giving the reader a sexy romance. This captivating adventure tells the story of Charlotte Moncrieffe, a widow who seeks to continue her husband's work as a spy. Espionage is in her blood; her own father has secretly worked as a spymaster for the government for many years. Charlotte is a trained pilot of a dirigible -the Gossamer Wing- and while she could easily sneak into France and recover vital lost documents, her father insists that she not go alone. Therefore, it's decided that a sham marriage to Baron Dexter Hardison will provide the perfect cover for them to travel through France on their Mission. Their marriage of convenience seems perfect, Dexter is an amazing inventor, and together they make a formidable team... Their crossing brings them closer together, and the somewhat closed off Charlotte finds herself more than a little tempted by her new -albeit -temporary husband. As their journey and mission continue, they're led further into danger, and they ultimately cross paths with the person behind the death of Charlotte's late husband. Can they recover the secret documents before their cover is blown, or will the fire that's increasingly burning between them be their undoing? This is my first book by this author, and only the second that I have read in the Steampunk genre. Although Steampunk novels seem to be set in an almost Victorian era and offer an alternative history, I found this one quite unique. In Gossamer Wing, the reader is treated to the possibilities of what could have happened if the American revolution hadn't been successful. A world that's quite unlike the one we inhabit; and surely that's the point!? This is a fantasy that stretches the reader's imagination, and takes us on a ride. Yes, vehicles are steam powered and the field of invention has taken many twists and turns away from what we now view as 'normal', but this author has written a book full of intrigue and passion that sets the page alight! I really enjoyed this book and will look out for the next in series -Scarlet Devices. Definitely recommended.
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Rumor Has It Animal Magnetism 4
by
Jill Shalvis
Michelle Olson
, August 30, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Marta C: *eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review I hadn't read anything by this author before, but had noticed her name crop up a few times when searching for something to read. This is a contemporary romance that had intriguing characters right from the beginning as the author introduces the lovely and very funny Kate Evans. Kate's spent all of her life living and working in the same small town, and always puts her own life and happiness on hold. She's in a rush one morning when she literally falls at the feet of Griffin Reid! He has recently been medically discharged from the army and now he's returned to his home town of Sunshine to take stock and decide where his life is taking him next. Kate has always had a thing for the sexy brother of her best friend, but Griffin never really saw her as a woman, well not until now anyway. Suddenly thrown together while Griffin's sister gets ready to marry, they constantly meet and tip toe around what is obviously a mutual attraction. Feeling thats it's time she became more than just his sister's best friend - and made a little bit bold by champagne - Kate makes her move on the sexy ex soldier. Griffin wants so much to take what Kate's offering, but his conscience won't let him take advantage. Poor Kate is crushed, but this girl is made of sterner stuff than that, and knows a good thing when she sees it. Let battle commence... This was such a fun read. So much humour, and this author really knows how to bring her characters alive. Kate is written with so much verve that its hard not to see her as a real person, and Griffin is such an amazing partner for her. What makes this book and the writing stand out for me has to be the amazing cast of characters surrounding the two lovers. I so want Ryan to get his own book and brother Tommy had me in tears of laughter! Add in the very sexy romance with lovely sensuous scenes, and a relationship that slowly draws the two leads together, and I'm not surprised that this author has such a loyal following. This feel good romance is very well written with amazingly fleshed out characters and comic moments that had this reader laughing out loud. A huge 5 from me and highly recommended!
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Rush
by
Joan Swan
Michelle Olson
, August 30, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Marta C: This is apparently the third book in the Phoenix Rising series although it is the first book that I have read by Ms. Swan. I feel that this is not a standalone book and readers would certainly benefit greatly if they read the two previous books (Fever and Blaze). This started out as a very detailed story about two firefighters(Jessica and Quaid), who are clearly very much in love. This is a very intense beginning to a story that had me believing the author intended to give an insight into the life of modern firefighters. I could not have been more mistaken, as the plot very quickly twisted and threw this reader into a confusing world full of tragedy, intrigue, and unexpected paranormal events. Whilst I hesitate to give spoilers, it's fair to say that the two lead characters are tortured individuals who have been through fire, quite literally! An explosion of toxic and highly top secret canisters finds both them and their firefighting unit changed irreparably! Whilst they all exhibit some form of psychic abilities, its Quaid who suffers the most. Believed to be dead, he has been experimented on beyond belief, and is now far more than just the fun loving man that Jessica remembers. His lack of memories may seem problematic but his new lack of humanity could destroy them all. I am stunned by this book! It pulled me in with its heartbreaking beginning but also managed to entertain with witty dialogue and a very unique storyline. These guys may not be superheros but they definitely gave this reader a fantastic ride. Totally unlike anything I have read and quite simply a fabulous read. I would have to say a very well deserved 5. This woman can write!
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Sleep with the Lights On
by
Maggie Shayne
Michelle Olson
, August 27, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Maggie Shayne's Sleep With the Lights On was a darkly seductive psychological thriller with a heroine you cannot help but love, a hero that immediate grows on you and who you both feel for and root for, a story that sucks you in immediately and allows you to be utterly immersed in the unfolding arc of the tale, a unique villain that inspires roiling in the gut, and an ending with a surprise worthy of the best murder mysteries. O.K, now that I enticed you with that lovely run-on sentence, let me try to break it down. :) Rachel DeLuca is, by far, one of the best heroines I've encountered! She's so very 'real'; one of those no holds barred ladies who says what's on her mind no matter what. A beautiful,intelligent, independent, strong, and sassy alpha-female who isn't afraid to just 'be'. And if that wasn't enough, Maggie, as Rachel in her POV, will have you laughing out loud in the first handful of pages. Mason is a stubborn cop, a loyal family man, and a slightly damaged soul. The things Maggie puts him through in only the first 1/4 of the book are enough to break anyone, but he rebounds with grace and ends up being one of those subtle alpha males who you just want to give a big hug to. The brilliant and unique premise - latent evil being transferred to multiple hosts via the receipt of an organ donation - is one that begs for attention! You can't help but be sucked in by it and set your mind racing with the 'what ifs' and 'what's nexts'. It's an epidemically spread case of evil, but through a means of infection that is utterly benign, thus making it even more disturbing. And the fact that one organ donor can affect up to 50 people makes this book, and ultimate series, one that has limitless potential. I adored this book. I have been a Maggie Shayne fan for longer than I can remember, but this new side of Maggie is absolutely ingenious and made me have even more respect for her astounding talent and ability to capture the hearts and minds of her readers. I cannot wait for more DeLuca and Brown!
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Troop
by
Nick Cutter
Michelle Olson
, August 27, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC Received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review The Troop was a deeply disturbing psychological thriller, pairing the absolute terror of biological weaponry with the deviancy of human nature. I'm a horror fan, and I didn't love The Ruins, I'll be honest. While The Troop is touted as being similar, it is, only in the sense that something MORE than natural in nature becomes the evil that our characters must face. With that said, where The Ruins let me down, The Troop most certainly did not; it's as frightful, ghastly, disturbing and macabre as I had hoped it would be. The brilliance of the tale was its storyline simplicity - an older Boy Scout troop on a retreat get stranded on their deserted island when patient 0 from a biological research project escapes from his laboratory confines and ends up on shore. The tight box that it was all confined in allowed Cutter to focus the reader's mind on the true meat of the story - the basest instinct of human nature when faced with something so awful that most everything you've been taught flies out the window, and the psychology behind the choices we would make when forced with such a decision. Oh yes, in-your-face death and destruction (in horrific fashion) is rampant throughout the tale, and the basis of the evil is enough to give you the willies even without the added element of necrosis, but the more disturbing parts of the story were actually the subtleties that Cutter used, and the seamless and gradual devolution and ultimate breakdown of each of the characters as the epidemic progressed. So, from a horror junkies perspective, I have to say that I was impressed by Cutter's debut novel. It's been awhile since I read a horror that evoked a truly visceral reaction, weirded me out, and yet kept me utterly enthralled. My only complaint was that it was a bit slow. With everything that I just said above you'd think it was an epic page-turner that was over much too fast. Unfortunately it wasn't. It was timidly paced, but written well enough, and with enough induction of anticipation, that you never think to give up. I would definitely recommend it for true horror fans who like both the revolting horror and the disturbing psychology of macabre thrillers.
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Striking Distance
by
Pamela Clare
Michelle Olson
, August 27, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Shawnie: *eARC received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review Striking Distance is a story of heartbreak and love. Its about connections that last years and even then never fade. Its about loyalty, respect and a dedication few know much about. Laura Nilsson is a T.V reporter who goes above and beyond for the still enlisted soldiers and the veterans who are home. She's the military's "Baghdad Babe," and at the point in her life were things are going well, but as they say things are never good for so long. While airing a story, Laura is ambushed and taken hostage and all the U.S people know is that those who took her... claim they have killed her. She spent eighteen months trapped in an Al Qaeda compound, and its taken a toll on her, but the soldiers she has worked hard for through her stories won't let her go that easily��" even if its to only kill the one who took and killed her. Especially Javier Corbray. Laura is strong, brave, and a survivor even though she doesn't feel that way about herself. But there are people in her life now, who refuse to let her close in on herself. Javier Corbray is a Navy SEAL on a mission to get revenge on the one who took and killed Laura. He never expected the surprise he and his team get when they find out she is very much alive. He has walked away twice now, and fate is about to give him another chance. Our heroine is in danger, and Javier's an Alpha to the core, his new mission... keep his "bella" safe. This will test his will like nothing before because he wants her more than ever. He's honor-bound to do so, and although he hasn't shared in her horrors, he understands the trauma and he's prepared to do all he can to bring out the woman he once knew. The connection between Javier and Laura is explosive and instant and its all too consuming for Javier. What is a welcome difference with this book, is that the hero isn't too Alpha male to hide from his feelings about the woman he wants, but that's where the not hiding stops. He's pushed all of his brothers in arms away, and they aren't keen on letting that happen for too long. Every page is an action packed, emotional roller coaster ride that leaves you drained - mind, body and soul. The emotion flows through the pages to give the reader a real sense of what is happening to the hero and heroine. It pulls you in and makes you feel things that you never thought you would experience in that capacity; stark terror, guilt, heartbreak, love and passion so fierce it could burn through pages if the author let it. Definitely recommended.
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She Can Scream
by
Melinda Leigh
Michelle Olson
, August 27, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review She Can Scream was a good, fast-paced thriller that will keep you engaged, and while I saw the whodunit coming, it was still a very enjoyable read with awesome characters that you can easily relate to. Brooke Davenport is a single mother struggling with a severe case of survivor's guilt following the murder of her best friend years before. She tries to assuage that guilt by teaching self-defense classes to young women in the hopes that she can stop it from happening to someone else. When she finds herself embroiled in a serial rapist and killer's tangled web and ultimately becomes his focus, she is forced to rely on the only man near enough at hand to lend assistance - and a blast from her past - her brother's best friend Luke. Luke Holloway is a work-a-holic suffering from a severe case of post traumatic stress after being involved in a high-rise bombing. After stopping back in his little home town to visit his grandma before he heads overseas on business, he is confronted with his teenage crush, his best friend's older sister. As things become dangerous in Brooke's life, Luke's protective instincts kick in and he sets out to do whatever is necessary to protect her and her family. All in all, She Can Scream was a action oriented and thrilling murder mystery with just enough side storyline and romance to make you feel like it's happening to someone close to you. I would definitely recommend it to Romantic Suspense and murder mystery/thriller fans!
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Tall Dark & Vampire
by
Sara Humphreys
Michelle Olson
, August 27, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review Tall, Dark and Vampire, the debut book of Sara's new DEAD IN THE CITY series, was a fun vampire romance with some great characters, a sweet love affair, and just enough action to keep things interesting! Our heroine, Olivia, was first introduced in book #4 of Sara's AMOVEO LEGEND series. She's a very strong female lead - nightclub owner, head of the coven, ex-sentry - and yet has this incredible hidden weakness, her desire to be loved, which makes her just vulnerable enough to be 'real'. Doug, our hero, is a no-nonsense detective working on a mass murder case, but when he comes face to face with the woman of his dreams (literally), his world is forever shaken and nothing remains as it was. The couple had a tense love affair, with neither side wanting to give much and adapt to the way things needed to be, but it made for some steamy scenes. And the HEA in this book... STELLAR! The story as a whole was chock full of fun twists and awesome action, and if you call the 'whodunit' at the end I will be surprised. I'm usually pretty good about figuring these things out ahead of time, but this one most definitely shocked me. :) While there is some bleed over from the AMOVEO LEGEND series, the book reads fine as a stand alone. There are some returning characters and some references that will probably make more sense if you have read the other shifter series, but you won't be lost if you haven't and decide that you want to jump right into the DEAD IN THE CITY series. Recommended? Absolutely. :)
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Million Dirty Secrets Million Dollar Duet
by
C L Parker
Michelle Olson
, August 25, 2013
*Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Since the blurb markets the book for fans of Fifty Shades of Gray and Bared to You, I feel like I need to start my review with a confession... I absolutely hated Fifty Shades, and I didn't finish Bared to You because I just couldn't get into it. Being a fan of horror, urban fantasy, paranormal romance, paranormal erotica, & some romantic suspense, I simply figured that straight erotic romance just wasn't my thing. With that all said, I'm not sure how useful my input will be, but I'll tell you what I thought and let you go from there... Some of you may know from reading other reviews and things that this started out several years ago as Twilight FanFic. What I want to say first off is to forget that you ever heard that. This is simply a steamy erotic romance that happens to be on the same highway as Fifty Shades and the others who have followed in its wake, but it's its own beautiful creature and should be viewed and judged as such. The concept is a familiar one - twenty-something virgin hooks up with hot billionaire business tycoon for hot sex. What it has in addition, however, is a moving baseline story for our heroine which makes her decision to enter into the contract entirely selfless and moving, and a catalyst for our hero that makes you want nothing more than for him to find his zen and mend is previously shattered heart. What really set the book apart were the characters and they're growth, both individually and toward one another - Noah starts out as a class A Alpha-hole (albeit a super sexy one), and independent, determined Lanie goes a little bit crazy mid book, but despite it all, their chemistry is page melting, and their dialogue is laugh-out-loud funny at times. Having read & loved C.L's Paranormal series, hosted her several times on the website, and talked with her for years online, I know her personality, and it shines through like a beacon in this book in the best of ways! Her wit, snark, and absolute abandonment, compiled with her evident lust for life (and lust in general. Hee hee) make for some fabulous reading material, and a lightness in a book that could easily get much too heavy with the amount of sex and drama. And the nicknames... Yeah, gotta love it! :) Life's too short to be so damn serious, right!? Now here's where I'm not much help... The eroticism was smokin' and there was plenty of it, but because I don't read these kind of books I'm not sure if it was enough, just right, or over the top. I felt it fit (from what I know of what fans of the genre look for) and even though I personally skimmed some parts (yeah, I get a little shy...), it was wicked sexy and fun at the same time. This is book #1 of a Duet, so it does end on a pretty big cliff hanger, but the next book will be out before we know it. :) In short, would I recommend A Million Dirty Secrets to erotic romance lovers who started out as fans of Fifty Shades, Bared to You, Wallbanger, etc? Absolutely!
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Heavy Metal
by
Natalie J. Damschroder
Michelle Olson
, August 23, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Marta C: *eARC received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review --Actual rating 4.5 Skulls My first read from this author, and truthfully I didn't quite know what to expect. This is the second book in her Goddesses Rising series, and follows on from Under The Moon. Is it fantasy? Romance? Urban? Well yes, somehow it's all of those and yet more. I don't know how I missed this author, but in some ways it reminds me of the Weather Warden series that I stumbled on by chance and then was equally blown away by. I love that these books challenge being pigeon holed and you as a reader just go for a fantastic ride. In this tale we meet Riley, who is on the run from those who seem to want to profit from her gift. Riley has the ability to make metal bend to her will, and believes an organization that protects those they call goddesses might be able to help her. She's truly not sure whom to trust, and seeks out Sam, who previously worked with the organization, but when they meet all hell breaks loose. Can Riley really trust Sam, and more to the point, will he want to become involved? He had his heart broken and has been running since, so why would he want to get involved? They find themselves embroiled in much more than either of them anticipated and embark on a journey to shake their very beliefs. This is a book that pulls you in from the very beginning. It's chock full of twists and turns and the action is non stop. I was truly sucked in from the start. The passion between Sam and Riley smoldered, yet didn't quite deliver for me. Still, I loved that it had such a unique view on humanity and our origins and would most definitely recommend it. This is a well written book that deserves an audience.
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Heaven and Hellsbane
by
Paige Cuccaro
Michelle Olson
, August 23, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Marta C: *eARC received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review I have to start by saying this is the second in a series (previous book is Hellsbane), and unfortunately I haven't yet read that one. I quickly realized that it would most definitely be a good idea to read the series in the order it was written, as I don't really feel this is a standalone novel. Emma Jane Hellsbane is the daughter of fallen angel and is a really feisty and butt kicking heroine. She has the power to sense when fallen angels are close, and heaven sent skills to vanquish both them and the demons they work with. As an Illorum, it's her duty to fight those who unlike her have already succumbed to evil and now fight as Gibborim (warriors of evil) She's under the tutelage of a very sexy angel - Eli - who is sworn to both train and protect her. Her life is further complicated by her relationship with Dan, a detective who also could be turned into an Illorum, as he's the child of a fallen angel as well but their very complicated triangle will test them all. This tale is chock full of angels in all their various guises, and initially I must admit I felt a little bogged down by all the different titles. Seraphim as the warrior angels that protect humanity were not portrayed as I expected, but that's the beauty of this story. Nothing is cut and dry! This is a book that pulls the reader in and as the story progresses tears you apart! As I previously stated, I haven't read the prequel and if honest, it took me awhile to both understand and truly enjoy this book, but when it got going... boy was it a fantastic ride. If I had to rate it initially it would have been just 4, which is a good mark for me, but the emotion that I felt in the second half as I came to both know and empathize with the characters makes this a 5 for me! Amazing story , loved the characters, surprises galore and really want to read more!
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SOUL KISSED
by
Erin Kellison
Michelle Olson
, August 16, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Just wow... I've been drawn in by the captivating magic of Erin's darkly poetic prose since day one, but this is definitely my favorite book of the series. Erin somehow managed to mesh dark urban fantasy with sweet paranormal romance in a heartfelt, dangerous, sexy miasma of literary goodness. Fan-freaking-tastic! Now that the 'Shadow People' are out and humans are aware things aren't as quiet as they used to be. Not only are the mages at war with themselves and the Order, but now they have yet another group to be worried about. When a magickal plague starts targeting magekind, things get even more intense and unlikely alliances must be formed to try and catch the murderer. Cari Dolan, new head of one of the most established and powerful mage houses must pair with childhood crush Mason Stray (an unaffiliated mage) to catch the culprit. This in itself was exciting. Not only do you have the dynamic of a shared past, but the whole Romeo and Juliet 'forbidden love' vibe as well, but when Mason's son is added to the mix you get even more intensity from the parent vibe, wherein a parent would do just about anything to keep their child safe. If that wasn't enough, Erin added some super heavy-duty antagonists to the mix to make things even more exciting and suspenseful. In short, because I can't tell you more without seriously spoiling the story, Soul Kissed was wonderful and I highly recommend it. I do, however, recommend reading the entire series before taking the plunge. The book is able to be read alone, but there are characters re-introduced from earlier books of the series and some things referenced that make the novel so much more meaningful when you understand the history.
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The Five Deaths of Roxanne Love
by
Erin Quinn
Michelle Olson
, August 16, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC Received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review In my honest opinion, The Five Deaths of Roxanne Love was one of the best books I've read all year. Thrilling, captivating, full of suspense, heart, drama & action... Just a fabulous read!! Roxanne Love and her twin brother aren't quite... normal. They've died multiple times now, and for some reason, each time they come back. The rest of their family is protective of them, the community is interested - and a little weirded out - and they, themselves, just try to live their lives running their family bar. Unfortunately all of that goes to hell when the bar is broken into and they're murdered. Santo is a reaper, one of many reapers from the beyond, but after having Roxanne slip through his fingers one too many times he's determined to snag his prey. No matter what... What he doesn't count on is the effect she'll have on him when finally face to face with her, or the full gravity of the situation as a whole and what's at stake when the pieces start to fall into place. The Five Deaths of Roxanne Love is like the best action packed paranormal romance and romantic suspense all rolled into one with a hint of horror to round things out. Erin once told me that she liked to take stories that scared the shit out of you and add smut to make them even better. This book does exactly that and you will not want to put it down. I sat down with it one Saturday morning and didn't go to sleep that night until I flipped the 416th page. So, so good!!:)
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Cloak & Silence
by
Sherrilyn Kenyon
Michelle Olson
, August 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: Cloak & Silence was an incredible follow-up to Born of Silence and well worth the wait in its release in my honest opinion. Action packed, tender, a pivotal turning point for several of our key players in the League-verse and just a great story, Cloak & Silence was another Kenyon home run and a must read for all League fans! It should be noted that this novella can't be fully enjoyed if you haven't read the previous installments of the LEAGUE series, especially Born of Silence, book #5, as it picks up immediately following the pivotal events at the end of BoS and then continues forward. It was incredible to get the full story of Maris' tragic past and be able to finally understand him even better. Getting this back-story, as well as some snippets into the back-story of some of our other leading characters, made the storyline more emotionally gripping, Maris' HEA an even greater reward, and was a great segue to future installments of the series. I am chomping at the bit for Hauk's book, Born Of Fury,in November now that I finally got re-immersed in the LEAGUE!
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Harlequin Nocturne #165: Daysider
by
Susan Krinard
Michelle Olson
, August 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson *eARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review -Actual rating 4.5 Skulls I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was like a Sci-Fi mixed with an Urban Fantasy, mixed with a Paranormal Romance and had me hooked from the very beginning. Susan somehow managed to combine heart stopping action and edge of your seat suspense with enough romance to keep diehard Paranormal Romance fans happy while still making Urban Fantasy lovers want more. There was also a deliciously dark edge to things. The world building was done wonderfully, the characters were well developed and instantly likable (or reviled) - except of course for those times when they were one or the other and ended up being the opposite. ;-)- and the story was fast paced and full of intrigue. This was a book that I grabbed from NetGalley because it looked interesting and because I knew we would be hosting Susan for her Urban Fantasy debut, but it ended up being a read that I couldn't put down. I can't wait for more of this series... If you want a unique Urban Fantasy Romance with a bit of a Sci-Fi feel that has tons of action, fascinating plot twists, and major room for future installment potential then this is definitely a book you need to check out!
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Mist
by
Susan Krinard
Michelle Olson
, August 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from Netgalley via Tor in exchange for an honest review -Actual rating - 3.5 Skulls This review is going to be a bit hard for me to write, because while there were things that I loved about this book, there were things that are stopping me from giving it a higher rating as well. I'll try to break it down the best I can though... Overall, Mist was a really cool concept - Valkyrie sent to earth with her sisters and several powerful & mystical artifacts during Ragnarok (the battle of good vs. evil between the Norse Gods), then forced into living a 'normal' life after she loses her sisters and assumes Ragnarok was lost by her side and everyone but she and a few others were locked away in another dimension. The problem... Ragnarok really never ended, the end is still coming, and Mist's 'normal' life is completely turned upside down when she finds this out the hard way by being attacked by a creature she never thought she'd see again, and learning that everything she believed in recently had been a lie. Unfortunately, to properly set all of that up in a debut novel, there was a significant amount of set up involved, so it started a bit slow for me honestly. The book also requires a decent amount of Norse Mythology knowledge and/or research for pronunciation and proper understanding of several things, so that slowed me down a little as well and didn't allow me to get lost in the story as I wanted to. The characters and story were strongly developed though, and like any good series debut, their introductions were both positive and negative allowing for further growth and development and the building of the reader/character relationship. The action also had major potential - Mist is a strong heroine, her newfound allies are also strong and interesting, and the action sequences both grabbed your attention and surprised with secrets being revealed in the middle of a battle and then later established upon. Basically, I feel that this series has a lot of potential once readers establish themselves in the mythology that the book is based on, develop relationships with the characters, and obtain a better grasp on where things are headed. I'm personally excited to see where Susan can take things because I think it could be a real treat to follow Mist and her crew through a few books in their struggles, triumphs, etc. I definitely recommend this book to Urban Fantasy readers who have a love for Norse mythology; the book is steeped in it, and it's quite fascinating. Overall, I'm looking forward to future books of the series now that the baseline is established. :)
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Thirteen Women of the Otherworld 13
by
Kelley Armstrong
Michelle Olson
, July 30, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *Copy received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review I loved, loved, LOVED this book! As an Otherworld fan and groupie, it is my personal opinion that Kelley could not have ended the series any better... All the leading characters that we've fallen in love with throughout the series were there, the action was insane, the revelations incredible, the 'closure' on some issues exactly what I would have wished for, and yet she left little tendrils to give us a few extra stories that she stated in the 'Note From the Author' would come in a few anthologies staring in 2014. In short, it was a fabulous conclusion novel and I would highly recommend it and the entire WOMEN OF THE OTHERWORLD/OTHERWORLD STORIES series. If you're looking for a high-octane thrill-ride, then Thirteen is for you. And if you like your Urban Fantasy with lots of diversity, then most definitely check out THE WOMEN OF THE OTHERWORLD and the OTHERWORLD STORIES! I am desperately going to miss this series, but am definitely looking forward to Kelley's tie up novellas next year!
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Fangs for Nothing
by
Erin Mccarthy, Kathy Love
Michelle Olson
, July 22, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: Another super fun read from Erin & Kathy!! I simply adore these books. We met our crazy cast in The Fangover, book #1. That book had me shaking my head every step of the way and laughing insanely. In Fangs For Nothing, a part of our IMPALER cast is back with some new friends and enemies, and once again a big black hole where memories of what happened should be... The Fangover gave us sex, blood, & rock-n-roll, with an alcoholic parrot singing Barry White, a priest in a bathtub, a curiously missing fang, a couple of wedding rings, a newly made vampire, & an Elvis cookie jar topper. Fangs For Nothing tries to trump that with a Fetish Dungeon complete with sex swing & handcuffs, a missing groom, 5 drag queen Cher impersonators,a gator wrestling Cajun caterer, an uptight, French death investigator, and a whole lot of 'whodunit'. Fangs for Nothing is Johnny (the Impalers' drummer) and Drake's (the Impalers' guitarist) tale. After apparently being drugged at their buddy's wedding reception, they wake up irrevocably tied to two very unlikely women with a whole lot of WTH in-between. In order to get some answers, Johnny pairs up with Lizette - a representative from the Vampire Alliance, and Drake takes off with Josie - a feisty entrepreneur. Each couple tries to gather clues to figure out exactly what happened, but each piece of evidence just leads to more questions, and every moment they spend together builds upon the attraction that none of them can ignore - no matter how much they might want to. I simply love the premise of these books; they're ingenious in their creativity. Just like the Hangover movies, while it's very unlikely for something like this to happen to the same group of people more than once in a lifetime, the fact that it has makes for an even funnier story and greater depth of character. Bottom line: If you're looking for a great light-hearted Paranormal Romance with some sexy rockstar vampires set in one of the most intriguing cities of the world, then you simply must read THE IMPALERS books! Fangs For Nothing could be read as a stand-alone, but I personally wouldn't recommend it. You will miss out on a lot of history that makes the set up and incidents in Fangs for Nothing much more meaningful, and besides... The Fangover is laugh-out-loud, stay-awake-all-night-reading awesome and deserves to be enjoyed! :) A solid 4 Skull read. I can't wait for the next IMPALERS book!
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Fifth Grave Past the Light
by
Darynda Jones
Michelle Olson
, July 18, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: In a nutshell, and in my most humble of opinions, the best book of the series so far! There are a lot of series where around the 5 book mark the installments start to feel a bit like filler. Not so at all with Fifth Grave! This book did feel a bit different for me though. More... human, maybe? There was still an amazing amount of mystery and action, and plenty of the spectacular dialogue and intrigue that we've all come to know, love and expect from the uber talented Ms. Darynda Jones, but what we got MORE of in this installment was the further revelation of the character growth and development (across pretty much EVERYONE). The way each piece fell into place as you started to see the whole picture and the links that bind them all was absolutely brilliant. I was left kind of wowed at times. I was also left laughing or shouting out loud to a point where I scared my poor dog and interrupted her sweet dreams of chasing cats and eating steaks or chasing cats that look like steaks... I dunno. ;-) And yes, for anyone wondering, there's LOTS of Reyes in this one. Hot, sexy, yummy, sinfully delicious Reyes, and let me tell you... some big and fabulous times were had by all (and will soon be had - did I mention that I am insanely wanting book #6 now!?). So yes... wonderful, highly recommended, beautifully written...a masterpiece of a series. Need I say more?
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Magic Rises Kate Daniels 6
by
Ilona Andrews
Michelle Olson
, July 18, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review I am ashamed to say that this was my first foray into the Kate Daniels universe. I have had this series on my TBR forever, but just hadn't gotten to it yet. When I set up an Author Event for the Magic Rises release, I really wanted to include a review so I jumped in with two feet. Magic Rises follows Kate, Curran, and 10 of their hand picked best on a quest across the Black Sea into what they know is a trap, but what they hope may be a coup. It was an action-packed read full of emotion, suspense, drama, and surprise and I was thoroughly engaged! Ilona and Gordon wrote Magic Rises in such a way that I, as a first time reader, had no issues following the tale. I know that there are probably plenty of subtleties that I missed (believe me, I've engaged in enough "OMG you need to read that series now!" debates to know that much), but overall in read wonderfully as a stand-alone. The only thing that I feel may have been over my head was the very last sentence, but it just makes me want to go back and read the first 5 books of the series now immediately. This book is a must read for all Kate Daniels fans - you will laugh, gasp, rail in frustration, mutter in shock, smile contentedly, and hope for more - and if you're a new reader, you'll do the same. A solid 4 Skull read, and I'm looking forward to much more in the KD-Verse!
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Rapture's Edge
by
J. T. Geissinger
Michelle Olson
, June 30, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: After adoring the first two books of this series, I had Rapture's Edge on Kindle Pre-Order and started it the day after release... Starting 3 years after the ending of Edge of Oblivion, Book #2, Rapture's Edge focuses on 2 characters that I was absolutely in love with in the 2nd installment - Demetrius (D), a former enforcer for the King, and Eliana, the displaced princess of the European Ikati tribe. At the end of Edge of Oblivion there were some major events that led to a heartbreaking misunderstanding and forced Demetrius and Eliana apart. In Rapture's Edge, Eliana is in hiding with her people - primarily her sadistic & presumed useless brother and his deceitful and conniving right hand man - and she's the primary bread winner for the colony by becoming an infamous cat burglar and fighting in underground fightclubs. Unfortunately, her cover gets blown and the human organization that her people are trying to hide from, as well as an Assassin sub-division of the Ikati, pick up her trail. Demetrius does as well... After searching for Eliana for 3 years, Demetrius doesn't wait a second to go after her once he finds out where she is despite the protests of his brothers. He's never stopped loving her and is determined to protect her from whatever comes her way. He also knows he'll need to do some explaining given the abruptness of their parting and the events preceding it. Rapture's Edge is an emotional roller-coaster. You want to slap Eliana (but only because you know things she doesn't), you ache for Demetrius and his plight of being caught between a rock and a hard place, you yearn for the two to get together - FINALLY! - and you loathe everyone that tries to keep them apart. Outside of the incredible heart of the story, there was plenty of action, some amazing romance, and like Edge of Oblivion, an ending that was chock full of mystery & surprise and will make you want the next book immediately without feeling like you were left totally hanging. I give Rapture's Edge 4 1/2 Skulls and am definitely looking forward to the next installment of the NIGHT PROWLER series!
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Harlequin Nocturne #164: Beautiful Danger
by
Michele Hauf
Michelle Olson
, June 30, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review I sometimes feel like I say it too much, but Michele just never disappoints. I am really, REALLY enjoying the darker side of things that she has been exploring with her last several releases as well, and the dark and gritty heart and emotion of this book was most definitely beautiful. In true Michele Hauf fashion, the leading couple of this tale are polar opposites and doomed from the start, which of course makes their story even more enjoyable. Our heroine, Lark, is the only female knight with The Order of the Stake, and Lark has one goal - to kill 366 vampires as quickly as possible in retribution for the 366 days that her late husband was held and tortured by vampires. Our hero, Domingos, is a vampire who was turned against his will. To make matters worse, he was then captured, severely tortured, and forced into an underground fighting ring by the local Werewolf Pack. All of this has completely broken him, and he is basically on an endless suicide mission so that he can stop all of the pain, though he's hell-bent on taking as many werewolves as he can with him before he goes. Their journey to their HEA is a treacherously dangerous & confusing one (for them, not the reader), and isn't easy or quick. It's filled with plenty of angst, some truly gripping moments, shiver inducing romance, and tons of action. You will literally ache for Domingos, rally on verge of cheering for Lark, curse the bad guys with vivacity, and be completely astounded by the fact that they are together at all while totally getting it at the same time. The other thing I loved about this book was the musical undertone and subtle usage of reference to evoke additional emotion. Michele has used music references in her books before and I adore it, but if you read the note from the author before you start Beautiful Danger and are familiar with the group she mentions, you can literally hear their music as the score for this dark and beautiful tale and it's absolutely perfect. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Beautiful Danger 4 1/2 Skulls and is looking forward to being in the company of vampires again very soon. ;-)
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Sebastian Falls
by
Celeste Holloway
Michelle Olson
, June 26, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review My first thoughts upon finishing this book were: "Another review book' that completely took me by surprise and knocked my socks off!" Sebastian Falls was a unique and highly imaginative tale, set in a well built world with relatable characters. Created with a biblical undertone, it kept you thinking as a reader, not only because there were numerous twists and turns and plenty of fabulous mystery, but because of the larger questions posed subliminally throughout the tale with regards to the whole picture of Good vs. Evil. As a YA, there was a bit of angst, but it was overshadowed by the wonderfully entertaining wit and banter of the characters. in addition, the romance was sweet, believable, and thankfully lacking a love triangle.. :) It's very difficult to write more for a review without giving details away that are integral to the enjoyment of the story, so I'll simply say that Sebastian Falls is a great read for the Young Adult and Not-So-Young-Adult alike. I immediately gave it 5 Skulls, and I stand by the rating. :)
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Still Life in Brunswick Stew
by
Larissa Reinhart
Michelle Olson
, June 12, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: Still Life in Brunswick Stew is the second book in Larissa's Cherry Tucker Mystery Series, and our super lovable Cherry is back and getting into more and more trouble! The poor girl just can't help it. Like book 1, Still Life in Brunswick Stew is a delightful, light-hearted Southern mystery with lovable characters, fantastic dialogue and a truly fun story; the characters simply come to life on the page, and light up the picture of these quaint Southern towns vividly in the mind's eye. Beyond the new mystery of book 2, it was fun to enter Cherry's quirky mind and mull over the issues of her current relationship with Deputy Luke, while entertaining paranoia that her simple, stupid, and loyal as a Labrador ex Todd may actually be a genius in disguise, and master manipulator as well, all while acknowledging that she's inherited a disease from her mother - a weakness & stupidity for handsome men. This installment wasn't quite as fast-paced as the debut novel of the series, but there were enough twists and turns to keep it interesting (especially at the end - I honestly didn't see the final outcome coming!). My only complaint about the book was that I felt like there wasn't enough emotion displayed with regards to her friend's death. Yes, Cherry was hell-bent on finding Eloise's killer, but I didn't feel like she grieved... Still Life in Brunswick Stew is still a very good book & I would recommend it and its predecessor Portrait of a Dead Guy. - it's a solid 4 Skull read! :)
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Darkest Desire of the Vampire
by
Rhyannon Byrd and Lauren Hawkeye
Michelle Olson
, June 05, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDIcTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from the author in exchange for a honest review I'm a huge fan of Rhyannon Byrd and there are many of her stories that warrant re-reads, but this tale may be the most deserving of all! Wicked in Moonlight is an amazingly emotional, sexy, action packed read, and the only problem with it was that it wasn't longer. :) Lainey is my favorite kind of heroine - strong, independent, feisty, and nowhere near perfect (unless you ask her mate). She's a bookshop owner and fiercely loyal to everyone she loves. Nick is... Yeah. He's an Enforcer Prime, sexy as sin and has a heart of gold. And to make things even more interesting, he's bitten by a werewolf and turns into this amazing hybrid. Lainey and Nick's story was amazing! Despite the necessary pace of the story given the length of the book, their tale never once felt rushed. I loved every single second, and can only hope that Rhy puts out Val and Seb's stories quickly.. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Wicked in Moonlight a well deserved 5 Skulls.
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Chronicles of Nick 04 Inferno
by
Sherrilyn Kenyon
Michelle Olson
, June 04, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: This series is like chocolate - even though I know I shouldn't, one page, one chapter, is never enough - I can't stop until the entire book is gone & I feel guilty for not doing the things I should, yet utterly sated & happy for having indulged.:) Every book of this series gets better & more intense. This may have been my favorite yet... Nick explores what happens when he leans more towards the darker side of his nature in this installment and it's not pretty - loved ones are put at risk (yet again), he gets in a huge bind (what's new, right!?), demons are possessing people close to him, Death (a.k.a Grim) is manipulating things to go his way and working with some other unsavory folk, love is tenuous at best, some huge revelations are made about several big players, and Nick's world is turned upside down. And then there was the epilogue... just wow! I cannot wait to see where Sherrilyn goes with this. I did not see that coming and am dying to see how it plays out. In a word: Utterly fantastic!! An easy 5 Skull read for me and I think that everyone should read these books. They may be classified as Young Adult, but they read like a gritty Urban Fantasy and are must reads for all Dark-Hunter fans.
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Time Thief Time Thief 01
by
Katie Macalister
Michelle Olson
, June 04, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review Time Thief was a fantastically unique story with incredible, witty dialogue, fabulous characters, & great undertone. I've met some delightful heroines in my time as a Katie MacAlister fan girl, but none as wonderful as Kiya Mortenson! She's quirky, energetic, spontaneous, and easily loved. Her inner dialogue is hilarious, and while she had traits I wish I had, there was a lot about her that I could relate with as well. She's just one of those heroines that you can't help but root for. Peter Faa,our hero, is Kiya's opposite. He's disciplined, determined, and stoic a lot of the time, but he's got this incredible dry sense of humor and a heart of gold. Our leading couple along with the supporting cast create a wonderful filling for this delightful new world. The Travellers and all of the history that Katie has created for them carve a new niche in the Paranormal Romance genre by being unlike anything I've encountered before, and something I am eagerly hoping to get lost in again very soon. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Time Thief 4 1/2 Skulls and definitely recommends it if you're looking for something fresh, funny, sexy and new.
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Twice Tempted
by
Jeaniene Frost
Michelle Olson
, June 04, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: I love Cat and Bones, but Vlad and his leading lady... Mmmm, mmm, mmmm! Simply incredible! Book #2 of the NIGHT PRINCE series picks up where Once Burned left off, but focuses on the tension filled relationship between Leila and Vlad. He has everything to offer her and is willing to give it all, except the one thing that she wants above all else, his love. Leila is an incredible heroine. She's strong, confident, not willing to settle, and above all, she's not perfect... she has many faults, but they make her who she is and that's precisely why I love her. Vlad is one of my favorite heroes. He's cocky, ruthless, powerful and sexy as all get out. His insistence that he can't ever give Leila the love that she wants makes for a very tension filled tale in this installment, but also creates an amazing opportunity for character growth of our hero. It was wonderful read. I adored this book, easily give it 5 Skulls, definitely recommend it, and can't wait for the final book of the trilogy. The next Night Huntress book teaser at the end was very welcome as well. :)
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Darkness Avenged
by
Alexandra Ivy
Michelle Olson
, June 04, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC Received from the Author in Exchange for an Honest Review Whew, talk about bang for your buck! 2 1/2 power couples, multiple villains, interweaving storylines, surprises around every corner... It was great! I've been a GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY fan since the very beginning, & like any long running series, there comes a time where the books start to feel like filler. I was getting a bit worried about that with this series because while I was still enjoying the books, they didn't keep me reading til all hours of the morning and ignoring everything else around me like they had...until this one! :) I've always been a fan of Dante and Viper in the series, but was immediately drawn to Santiago when he was introduced way back in the series. He's one of those uber confident, semi-cocky, sexy as sin alpha males that you just can't help but fall for. Nefri is a very confident and strong female as well, and her story is intriguing to say the least - she's an Ancient and has been behind the Veil for longer than Santiago has been alive and undead. When the two are paired together by the Commission to hunt down Santiago's sire as he wreaks havoc on the world, things get incredibly interesting... in SO many ways. The things revealed in this book were so intense. It's any GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY fans' dream. I loved this book and easily give it 5 Skulls. I do not recommend that readers jump into this book if they have not read the other books of the series though, there's just too much history. Outside of that, HIGHLY recommended.
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Fall of Night
by
Rachel Caine
Michelle Olson
, June 04, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: All I could say when I finished this book was "Holy mother...." I wasn't sure what to expect with all of the changes from the last couple books, the breakup of our known posse and the tension running rampant, but if it's even possible for me to love one of these books even more than I already have been, Fall of Night did the trick! I started the book at 1am on release day because I simply couldn't wait, and by the next afternoon I was finished. I couldn't put it down! I love the new characters, the action was even more intense than usual (and that's saying A LOT!), and the surprises... I don't even know where to begin; I'm actually a bit speechless right now. Let me just say that I don't think I've said "OMG!" so many times over the course of one book ever. Fall of Night was absolutely, amazingly, stunningly awesome! An easy 5 Skull read, and though I didn't think it was possible, this series (even after 14 books) just keeps getting better!
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Clockwork Fairy Tales: A Collection of Steampunk Fables
by
Antczak, Stephen L.
Michelle Olson
, June 01, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's GuestvReviewer - Michelle M: *ARC received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review This book is a collection of Steampunk Fables based on fairy tales. These stories take you back to a time long ago but with a twist. I loved them. My favorite would be You Will Attend Until Beauty Awakens. This one is based on Sleeping Beauty and I just loved the story. Each of the Fables in this book stick to your mind and you will always remember them and I love that about a book that I read. So many times you can forget what the books were about but this one will always stick. The technology in these makes a person like me, 'a tech nerd', happy and learning about Steampunk was a great experience for me. You had gears, laboratories, mechanical dogs and treasure. You get a little and a lot all at the same time. Short stories but great on detail and Steampunk goodness. This was my first book on Steampunk and I will definitely be checking out more of this genre now that I got to get into the worlds in each of these Fables. LITERAL ADDICTION's Guest Reviewergives Clockwork Fairy Tales 4 Skulls.
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Darkness Unmasked A Dark Angels Novel
by
Keri Arthur
Michelle Olson
, May 24, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review Keri Arthur has woven another compelling web of action, intrigue, mystery and suspense with Darkness Unmasked! Being a chronic reader, it is my personal opinion that one of the highest compliments a book can receive is when it doesn't matter what you should be doing, you'd rather be reading. And an even greater testament to the utter captivating nature of the tale when that statement is turned to action, wherein everything in 'real life' is pushed aside for the opportunity to be totally immersed in the magic of the story. This series has done that to me 5 times over now - the outside world simply disappears when I have a DARK ANGELS book in hand, and I don't move until that last incredible page is turned... This release is slightly darker and grittier than the previous installments. There's just as much action, but the violence is more intense, the villainy more sinister, and the emotions more raw. The romance is slightly different as well. It was simply written, leaving much to the imagination. With the journey this series has taken it is almost impossible to write a plot driven review without spoilers, and because I don't do that, I will simply tell you that while a lot of series start to lag at the 5 book mark, somehow I feel like this thrill-ride is just getting started. There was a quote that about sums things up: Risa is at the climax of the story and is told, "Be careful, Risa Jones, there are more games being played than you realize." :). I'll also say that the twists that were introduced in this part of the story arc were diabolical in their brilliance & served to just further the emotional bond that Keri has been able to forge between her characters and the reader, as well as the characters themselves. No other books elicit the type of emotional response that these do for me; I always feel like I'm right there with them, and every single book has become a new favorite, leaving me emotionally spent and yet only wanting more. Darkness Unmasked easily scored another 5 Skull rating from me. I highly recommend it, and the entire DARK ANGELS series - to everyone. These books have everything you want in a perfectly written Urban Fantasy - strong and well developed characters, superb world building, suspense and mystery with plenty of surprises, heart pumping action and intrigue, and just enough romance and witty dialogue to smooth out the edges.
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Woman On The Run
by
Lisa Marie Rice
Michelle Olson
, May 23, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Marta C: *eARC received in exchange for an honest review Fabulous book! I haven't read a lot of romantic suspense novels and certainly never one from this author but confess to being blown away by it! I really wasn't that intrigued by the idea of a woman on witness protection acting as a teacher whilst meeting and falling for an ex Navy Seal but boy was I in for a very pleasant surprise! From their first meeting which was hilarious and involved the heroine Julia Devaux hitting Sam Cooper(Coop) over the head with a pumpkin of all things to their very steamy and passionate relationship there was nothing that I didn't like. This hero puts the T in taciturn! Truly a man of few words but boy did he provide action! A sensitive and caring heroine and well fleshed out supporting characters made this an interesting story. I will confess that I realized who the "bad guy" was, but then I do read an awful lot of fiction and I am sure many readers will be pleasantly surprised by the ending of this book and the epilogue was especially sweet! I will also admit that I just sat and read this in one sitting and ignored housework as it was that good. :) Would I recommend this book? Definitely! Will I try more from this author? Silly question as the answer is one hundred percent yes! LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer gives Woman on the Run 5 Skulls.
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Shadow of Night: All Souls Trilogy 2
by
Deborah Harkness
Michelle Olson
, May 19, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: Shadow of Night, the second installment of Deborah Harkness’s ALL SOULS TRILOGY was a wonderful pastiche of factual history and entertaining fiction, all woven together to create a work of art worthy of any intellectual reader. Shadow of Night picks up where A Discovery of Witches leaves off, though new readers who are jumping in to this book without having enjoyed the debut novel will have no problems catching on. Written in several parts, the novel follows Matthew and Diana as they travel back to Matthew’s past in 1590 in search of several things ��" a witch skilled enough to instruct Diana and hopefully give some answers regarding the incongruence of her magic, and the complete ‘book of origins’ being the main two. As they assimilate themselves in Elizabethan times, some big secrets are revealed, relationships and loyalties are both forged and tested, and they undergo the delicate dance of completing their mission without utterly altering the present reality. It’s very difficult to write a comprehensive review for this book without spoilers, so I’ll just keep it surface level and say that Shadow of Night is not a light-hearted, quick read (especially not at 584 pages). It’s a well developed, beautifully written, and intricate tale built around some incredible factual research and set in a complex yet compelling world of wonder. The characters are well developed and the twisted facts in the fiction had me doing research into the true lives of the individuals Deborah bases her characters on days after finishing the book, smiling all the while in acknowledgement of the sheer creative cleverness involved. So in short, LITERAL ADDICTION gives Shadow of Night 4 ½ Skulls. If you’re looking for a book that mixes fact with fantasy fiction, utterly entertains and yet intellectually challenges, and sticks with you long after you’ve turned the last page, this series is definitely for you.
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Inferno
by
Dan Brown
Michelle Olson
, May 15, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: I'm a Dan Brown fan... I've read all of his works, not just the Robert Langdon series - Digital Fortress is probably my favorite work of his. Anyway, being a fan, I was excited to hear that he was coming out with a new book, had Inferno pre-ordered, and actually waited up until after midnight on release day so I could start it immediately keeping the next day free of commitments so I could dedicate it to reading. Sadly, the only thought that kept running through my head while reading was "Oh Dan, where is the heart!!?" :-/ I like Brown's writing style despite the harsh critique it's received. I enjoy how his books are layered with codes and mysteries, how they're incredibly fast-paced & often surprising, & how he takes facts and then pulls and twists them like taffy as far as they'll go without breaking to turn them into riveting fiction. I don't even mind the repeated format within the Robert Langdon series - professor and expert on symbology and iconography finds himself embroiled in the middle of a high-stakes mystery, teams up with an attractive, smart and capable foreign woman who helps fill in the gaps and challenges him, and the two cement alliances, skirt villains, and undergo a hair raising adventure to save the world's (or the world itself). With all that said, Inferno just fell flat for me. It had the expected format as mentioned above. It had the twisted facts as also mentioned above. What it didn't have was any of the action packed thrills and gasp inducing surprises I've come to know and love in Dan Brown's books. In addition, those style critiques I mentioned were very evident in this book to me, where I hadn't even noticed them before: foreign languages used during dialogue - a lot of times without clarification leaving holes for those of us who don't speak fluent Italian or Latin, references that make no sense - a train of thought referral to Dutch city where MC Escher lived (who cares if that's where the artist lived, it has no bearing in the story & took 3 sentences to tell!), simile & hyperbole used in the weirdest of places without much order, etc. I wanted to love this book. I really, really did, especially given my fascination with and deep appreciation for Dante and all of the other art and literature his Divine Comedy spawned, but alas I just couldn't, and am giving my very first ever 2 Skull review. *sigh*
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A Discovery of Witches: All Souls 1
by
Deborah Harkness
Michelle Olson
, May 15, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Guest Reviewer, Cheryl W: I was lucky enough to win one of the advanced reader copy versions of Deborah Harkness' A Discovery of Witches, to be released in 02/2011. When I completed the first chapter and woke up the next morning I decided that I had to write my thoughts for the review as they occurred. One of the things that crossed my mind when I first heard about this book was wow. This book is written by a scholar. I researched the author via her university home page because I was curious about her background. When I finished the first chapter I was still in the wow stage and my thoughts were; this is a bridge between scholars and great urban fantasy writers. I love when I get to have both! I wish as a techie scholar I could combine my two loves of computers and urban fantasy. This book was everything I hoped it would be! I read this slowly despite how I typically devour most books. With some books I slow down intentionally because I realize that I do not want it to end quickly. A Discovery of Witches is that type of book. It is the type of book you develop a relationship with as you read it. I think that there will be people that will fall in love with it as they read it just as I did. I hope that even those that feel that it may not be for them still find something that they can take from the book. It is very intricate. The story is well developed, extremely well written and the characters are very well developed. But, it was not a quick read for me because, I did not want it go fast. For me it is a book that you spend time with and do not forget the places it takes you as the characters are being drawn. The history it discusses is thought-provoking. One of the things I liked was how Diana developed with regard to her powers and her family. Politics were a strong part of the story. With regard to the politics one of the most intriguing things I found was who is involved in the politics. I am trying to keep this review spoiler free. But, as the blurb on the back states we have multiple beings involved in this book and they have a very long history with each other. One of the things that make this book so amazing is the historical backdrop for all of the creatures. I found myself looking forward to learning more about all of the beings. I really look forward to more written by Deb Harkness. I had a hard time deciding how to end my review but it does not spoil anything to shout; “I can’t wait to see what happens next”!
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Wicked as They Come
by
Delilah S Dawson
Michelle Olson
, May 09, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Guest Reviewer - Tanya C: Wicked as They Come is the first book in the Blud series by Delilah Dawson. I was instantly drawn into the wonderfully magical world Delilah Dawson has created. I loved the character of Criminy Stain who was like a steampunk version of The Mad Hatter from the classic Alice in Wonderland. The story itself was very well paced and did not lack action and intrigue at all. The way the two worlds in Wicked as They Come were so intertwined was what really hooked me, and quickly made me a forever fan. LITERAL ADDICTION's Guest Reviewer gives Wicked As They Come 5 Skulls and would definitely recommend it.
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Fair Folk in Knob's End
by
Rachel Armstrong
Michelle Olson
, May 09, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: So, when an author friend asked if I’d read and review this book I was a bit hesitant. I have all but given up on YA since I discovered the plethora of adult Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, and Paranormal Erotica out there, but I love my friend dearly, and wanted to do this favor. Settling in and not knowing quite what to expect, I was VERY pleasantly surprised that I couldn’t put this book down and devoured it in 1 and ½ sittings. It may be labeled YA, but Fantasy lovers young and old will love this book. Think Lord of the Rings meets The Chronicles of Narnia, meets The Secret Circle. Sophie is your average high school student in a new town. She meets some new friends, gains some new adversaries, and otherwise just tries to adjust. One of her rescuers, a girl in her grade named Nerys turns out to be so much more than what Sophie had ever imagined and an entire new world is opened for her. Literally. Once the girls venture over to Tylwyth Teg and begin their true adventure, things get really exciting. The action in this book is heart pounding and I found myself vocally cheering on Sophie and her band of misfits the entire way. It was so easy to put myself in Sophie’s shoes during the journey - I got choked up and worried when things didn’t go as planned, I was excited when things did go as hoped, and I felt nervous just like I assume she would have during the unknowns, including that of her budding new romance. This book really was incredible and I think that Rachel has a promising new future in the literary world. I can’t wait to read the 2nd book of the Daughters of Annwyn series, and hope that Ms. Armstrong gives us even more books and series to read and adore. If it weren’t for my author friend suggesting this, I probably would have never found it, and I am SO glad that I did. Now you all have me recommending it to you, so go out and enjoy if YA Fantasy peaks your interests. Like I said though, I truly believe that this book is wonderful for both young and “old” adults alike, and would recommend it as such. If you want an action packed fantasy read that sucks you in to the magickal world of Twylyth Teg and its inhabitants, hop on this ride. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Fair Folk in Knob’s End 5 Skulls and cannot wait for the 2nd installment.
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Mist Torn Witches Book 1
by
Barb Hendee
Michelle Olson
, May 04, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review Let me just start out by saying that the writing of Barb Hendee never fails to amaze me... Mist Torn Witches combines the same type of incredibly vivid characters and heart that I've come to know and love from Barb's Vampire Memories series, with the superb fantastical world, danger & action that I seek out & devour in Barb & JC's Noble Dead Saga. The combination in this series debut was an utterly compelling & captivating new Fantasy with characters I can't wait to follow for a good long time, & an intriguing & mysterious world I will happily get lost in again & again! Our leading ladies, Celine and Amelie, are exactly what I love in my heroines - they're independent, strong, perfectly flawed, and despite the fantasy, undeniably 'real' and relatable. Following their journey as they each followed their head and/or their heart, as they made mistakes and learned from them, as they loved and lost and grew as people was wonderful. You couldn't help but feel what they felt and root for them at each turn. The story was steadily engaging with the perfect arc and never a lag. It had just the right amount of twists and turns, a wonderful number of surprises, and plenty of action. And while it is a fantasy series, there was no cliffhanger. It wrapped up nicely, but left a world of possibilities for the next books; exactly what a food serial debut should do! LITERAL ADDICTION gives The Mist Torn Witches 5 Skulls. I am so happy to have another Hendee obsession to follow. :)
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Wicked as She Wants
by
Delilah S Dawson
Michelle Olson
, May 04, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC provided by Edelweiss in exchange for a honest review I was wondering how I would like this book after seeing a significant range of early read ratings and comments online by Blud fans, wherein there didn't seem to be quite the amount of enthusiasm as there was for earlier installments. I personally thought it was absolutely incredible, and my only guess as to why my opinion differed slightly from other Blud series lovers is that I started the series with book #1.5, not with Book #1, and didn't actually read Criminy's story until after Wicked As She Wants. With that all said, Delilah's series is unlike anything I've read before and each new story just sucks me in further! Readers are introduced to Casper Sterling, a.k.a "Maestro", in book #1 of the series when he's involved with Tish (who ultimately becomes Criminy's wife). Casper's story and elaboration of his tortured character are further elaborated in book #1.6, The Peculiar Pets of Miss Pleasance. Finally, the enigma that is the Maestro is unveiled in Wicked as She Wants, and what a tale it is! Casper has a lot of issues and even more secrets, but at his core he desperately wants to redeem himself, and he's truly a good man. He cares deeply for his charge Keen- a young orphan that he took under his wing, and even though she tried to kill him upon their first meeting, he decides to do everything in his power (and really whatever it takes) to help the Princess Ahnastasia. Ahna is the Feodor of Freesia, rightful bloodman heir to the throne, and a truly fascinating character. She's haughty, oftentimes nasty, sometimes naive, and surprisingly vulnerable. She has an innate strength & kindness, but her circumstances have never taught her how to properly portray those qualities. She and Casper together learn countless things about themselves and each other and the growth of character is fascinating to read. Wicked as She Wants was action packed, thrilling, and sexy, and I can't wait for Wicked After Midnight. 5 Skulls!
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Bayou Legend
by
Janet Breakfield
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Guest Reviewer - Marta C: Let me start this review by saying I usually read a mix of paranormal romance and urban fantasy so was very pleased to be asked to review this book as it is by a new author for me, and who wouldn't want to be gifted with such an opportunity? This story is about a girl called Emily who has spent much of her life growing up in the Bayou and learning from her Gran how to be a treater [healer] and upon her eighteenth birthday comes into her powers.These powers include hearing thoughts and having the ability to heal those who need it. Her Gran also tells her the story of Loup Garou [the werewolf legend] and how it affects a local family which includes Tanner, who unbeknownst to Emily, has always loved her.The curse that effects him has been passed down on the male side of his family by a witch who felt shunned by his grandfather. Emily feels his pain one night and goes to him. They spend a night of passion which is sensed by Ursula- the witch who cursed Tanner's family. The witch vows to separate the young lovers, and sets events in motion that could prove fatal. So what did I think? It is a unique approach , as the author swaps from Emily's point of view to Tanner's occasionally, which enables the reader to actually get both of their thoughts and viewpoints. This might irritate some readers, but I found that it added to the story. Bayou Legend does contain scenes of a sexual nature, but I thought it was a sensual romance between two passionate young people and not hard core erotica. It was romantic without being overly graphic, and I didn't feel as if the author was describing a gynecological procedure, nor any crude terms or childish names. LITERAL ADDICTION's Guest Reviewer gives the tale a solid 4 skulls and would definitely read more from Ms. Breakfield..Magic, Werewolves and passion definitely worth a read. Recommended!
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Dead Letter Day
by
Eileen Rendahl
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Kathy M: *Copy received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review First off I must confess that I was unfamiliar with Eileen Rendahl’s Messenger series. So I didn’t know what to expect with Dead Letter Day, the third book. I can honestly say that by the second chapter, I knew that I would be ordering the first two books, pronto. The heroine, Melina, is a messenger for the supernatural beings that live among the unsuspecting mundanes (people with little or no arcane abilities). When her werewolf friend goes missing - and his pack does not seem concerned - Melina, with the help of her boyfriend and friends, goes on the hunt to save him. And nothing, not demonic cows, crazy gods, cranky werewolves and a very unexpected personal development, will stop her. I really enjoyed this book. LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer gives Dead Letter Day 4 1/2 skulls & is looking forward to more Messenger books.
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Golden Age of Death Calliope Reaper Jones Book 5
by
Amber Benson
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Kathy M: *Copy received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review Callie, the dark and funny protagonist in Amber Benson’s Calliope Reaper-Jones series, just can’t get a break! Due to the untimely death of her father (murdered), Callie must now run the family business, Death, Inc. and try to find time for romance with her boyfriend Daniel, the former right hand of the devil. The Golden Age Of Death is a wonderful mix of macabre humor, witty dialogue, horror and hairpin twists and turns. And without giving anything away, I’ve got to say that the ending completely blindsided me. I enjoyed this book very much. LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer gives The Golden Age of Death 4 1/2 skulls.
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Agave Kiss Corine Solomon
by
Ann Aguirre
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Kathy M: *Copy received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review Agave Kiss, Ann Aguirre’s 5th book in her Corine Solomon Novel series, is an action packed, emotional ride that keeps the readers on the edge of their seats. Corine has a lot to do and only a short amount of time in which to do it. Somehow she must find a way to release a friend from a curse, rescue her guardian angel, and bring her lover back from the dead. Oh, and she has to do it without her magic. Needless to say,Corine has her hands full. And if she can keep herself from getting killed in the process, just maybe she will be able to accomplish it all and find her HEA. Agave Kiss has a lot of stuff packed into 309 pages. As Corine finds herself overwhelmed, I found myself sometimes also overwhelmed. But despite that fact, I did enjoy this book. LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer gives Agave Kiss 4 skulls.
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Dead Mans Deal The Asylum Tales
by
Jocelynn Drake
Michelle Olson
, May 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Jocelynn Drake delivers another mind blowing read with the 2nd installment of The Asylum Tales, and continues some of the most fantastic world building I have ever encountered! As the conflict between the Towers and the rest of the world escalates, Gage and his loved ones are once again caught up in the midst of the chaos. Per usual, loyal, selfless, protective, absolutely lovable Gage lays everything on the line to protect those he loves and the lives of the innocent. Jocelynn is so in tune with her leading man and writes so vividly, that as he fights tooth and nail and sacrifices just about anything & everything he can, you can't help but be caught up in the story and cheer him on, feeling as if you were right there with him. The tone and pacing of the plot were fantastic, and the arc of the story is evolving spectacularly. Amidst the magic and mayhem we get some delicious sneak peeks into what might be, as well as some delightful regressions into what was, all adding up to a fast paced, action packed Urban Fantasy that is also incredibly touching and full of heart. I am thoroughly obsessed with this unique and gripping series and highly recommend it! While Dead Man's Deal can be read as a stand-alone, I highly suggest reading the 2 prequel novellas and Angel's Ink beforehand. The added history and character development story you will gain will make Dead Man's Deal just that much more enjoyable (and that's saying a lot). LITERAL ADDICTION gives Dead Man's Deal a well earned 5 Skulls.
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Eternal Demon: Mark of the Vampire
by
Laura Wright
Michelle Olson
, April 30, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review Eternal Demon is another incredible installment to a series I will forever be grateful I discovered. Fans of the MARK OF THE VAMPIRE series know that as the series has progressed, the world has been expanding along with the growth of the cast. Eternal Demon adds yet another realm to the incredible world Laura Wright has created for her readers, and with the introduction of this realm and new cast members, Laura embraced the darker side of her imagination and I absolutely loved it!! Our hero, Erion - a vampire Mutore hybrid - is on a mission to rescue a child kidnapped by the villain of our series, Cruen. Our heroine, Hellen, is one of the Devil's daughters. She has been betrothed to Cruen in order to form an alliance between the vampires and demons, though there are more nefarious purposes in play that Hellen is unaware of. In order to draw Cruen out, Erion kidnaps Hellen and there is an instant connection, even though neither quite understand it at first. They have a ton of things in common, and yet it's more than that. As the two end up working together to save Ladd, their connection grows even stronger. Laura created a perfect match for Erion in Hellen. They bring out the best in each other, help each other forgive the things they can't get past on their own, and remind one another that they're special and worth loving. They also come alive on the page and have fantastic dialogue. As I mentioned earlier, Eternal Demon is quite a bit darker than the previous books of the series, and in compliment, the dialogue is a bit darker, and the humor more dry as well. it worked perfectly with Erion and Hellen, and made reading their transition from lust to love utterly entertaining. I want to tell you SO much more about the plot of this amazing book but I can't without spoilers, so I'll simply tell you that in my honest opinion, this was a beautifully written and incredible addition to the MARK OF THE VAMPIRE series full of intrigue, action, danger, and romance. I love the additions to the cast, the expansion of the world to the Hell realm, and the darkness that Laura is tapping into in order to mesh it all together. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Eternal Demon 5 Skulls and definitely recommends it. I do, however, suggest that you read the previous books of the series - including the eNovellas - first, to get the most enjoyment out of the book. Eternal Beauty (the eNovella right before Eternal Demon) is especially needed to understand the Epilogue of Eternal Demon, which is the draw dropping segue into book #6 of the series. I cannot wait!
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Portrait of a Dead Guy
by
Larissa Reinhart
Michelle Olson
, April 30, 2013
Our Review by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: Portrait of a Dead Guy is a delightful, light-hearted Southern mystery with lovable characters, fantastic dialogue and a truly fun story! Beyond the fun mystery, my favorite part of the book was the undeniably 'real' cast - A strong, independent and quirky leading lady who will make you shake your head at the binds she gets herself into without even trying, the two men after her heart - the heartthrob rocker who may or may not be adorably clueless, and the sexy rich boy who may or may not have a heart of gold underneath the spoiled brat facade, Cherry's loving yet dysfunctional family, and the delightful residents of the small town who round out the charming setting perfectly. The story itself is fast-paced with plenty of twists and turns, and yet steady enough to to not cause confusion. I did ultimately figure out the 'who-dun-it' myself, but it was gradual, and completely enjoyable as each new secret was unveiled. It was also incredibly refreshing, unique and engaging from the very beginning. While I generally don't like to do comparisons, especially if the book was beautiful in its own right (which this one was!), I think it might help readers... The book had a bit of a 'Stephanie Plum', or Lexi George (without the paranormal) feel. Portrait of a Dead Guy really has everything a good book should have and I would definitely recommend it. LITERAL ADDICTION gives book #1 of this exciting new series 4 Skulls.
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Behind the Lies: A Montgomery Justice Novel
by
Robin Perini
Michelle Olson
, April 27, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review I'm not generally a Romantic Suspense reader (I read Paranormals, Fantasy, Horror & Mystery). In fact, Behind the Lies was only the 3rd RS I've read. Ever. With that said, it was like the best action/drama movie on paper and utterly thrilled! Zach, oour hero, is the assumed slacker & wild child of the Montgomery clan - a well known actor, but also an infamous CIA Agent. His cover gets blown, there's a price on his head, and things just wtart to spiral out of control. Our heroine is an abused wife and devoted mother trying desperately to find a way to make a new life for herself and her son. in attempting to escape her psycopathic husbamd she ends up in her superstar neighbor's pool house, irrevocably meshing their fates. Behind the Lies was 'Truth, Justice and the Montgomery way', where blood is always thicker, and rules were meant to be broken! :) it was tense, action-packed, and thrilling, and while I did see some of the outcomes, it was no less fun getting there. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Behind the Lies 5 Skulls and would definitely recommend it!
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One for the Wicked
by
Karina Cooper
Michelle Olson
, April 24, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review Oh Karina, way to go out with a bang! So intense, so HOT, so...absolutely amazing!! While I am super sad to see the series end, I am beyond honored to have been able to enjoy the ride, and thank you for leaving us all with this epic piece of your imagination. :) So, how to sum up for those reading this review who have yet to take the DARK MISSION plunge? The series is set in a delightfully dark & somewhat dystopian world where it's church against 'other' and prejudice and bias have left the witches fighting for their lives. However, it's so much more than just the church bigots and the witches, and each and every book of the series revealed more and more complexity, mystery, and mayhem - all thrown together with some seriously emotional moments and incredible romance. Our hero has been hell bent on revenge against our heroine's father - the man solely responsible for turning his life upside down sixteen years previously, so when he's presented with the opportunity to use his enemy's daughter as leverage, he jumps at the chance. Unfortunately, it's not as easy as all that... Kaleigh and Shawn have an instant attraction, and no matter how much either of them fight against it, knowing that giving in goes against everything they've respectively been taught throughout their lives, nature takes its course and shakes things up (in more ways than one). So how does it all end? Oh come on, I can't tell you that! You're just going to have to read it for yourself. I CAN tell you that Karina wraps things up beautifully with a strong couple who fights hard for their HEA while fighting just as hard to stay true to themselves, she brings back previous characters, which allows the reader necessary closure and ties up some lose ends from earlier installments, and she delivers it all in an action packed, intriguing, romantic, emotional, and utterly entertaining read that she should be very, very proud of. LITERAL ADDICTION gives One for the Wicked an easy 5 Skulls and would highly recommend it. And while the books can be read as stand-alones, I do strongly suggest that you read the series from the beginning - in order - starting with the prequel novella, Before the Witches. Trust me, it makes things even better! :) Oh, and random side note...I will never look at my studded leather cuff bracelets the same way ever again! ;-) [Now if that didn't make you want to read it just to see what the heck I'm talking about, I don't know what will!] Take the DARK MISSION plunge, you won't be disappointed.
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Caged Warrior Dragon Kings Book One
by
Lindsey Piper
Michelle Olson
, April 21, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from Edelweiss DRAGON KINGS is a good new series, but I actually enjoyed the prequel novella better than the first full length novel. It just felt like I was missing something for a good part of the story (even after reading Silent Warrior), but once I filled in the gaps in my head and got things straight using my imagination, I was able to better enjoy the story for just that... the story. I loved the different clans and their respective Gifts - it should be noted that the characters are not dragons though, they are immortals with a Dragon deity, each with a God/Goddess given Gift depending on their bloodline. The ups and downs of our hero and heroine's journey to one another was emotion filled and tense, the characters were wonderfully created and portrayed, and the world was unique and complex. It was also quite dark, and for a reader who leans more towards the grittier Urban Fantasy reads, I enjoyed that greatly! There were also some great twists throughout the story that kept me riveted. With all that said, I give Caged Warrior 3 1/2 Skulls and will be looking forward to book #2 and more time spent with our Dragon Kings.
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Of Shadow Born Shadow World 04
by
Dianne Sylvan
Michelle Olson
, April 20, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Kathy M: Of Shadow Born is the 4th book in Dianne Sylvan’s The Shadow World series, and I must first just say OMG!!!! This is one of my favorite series because of Ms. Sylvan’s fantastic world building and her ability to grab the reader and take them on an emotional and action packed ride. Of Shadow Born takes up with the killer cliff hanger from the prior book, Shadow’s Fall, and it’s full speed ahead. Miranda and David, Queen and Prime of the South, must somehow defeat threats coming at them from many sides. One of my favorite things about this book was how several of the secondary characters play a more prominent role allowing us to get to know them better. I’ve been a fan of Deven and his consort Johnathan from book one and learning more about them as well as the witch Stella, made Of Shadow Born immensely well fleshed out and satisfying. I can’t say enough good things about this book. 5 skulls, without a doubt.
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Blood Trade Jane Yellowrock
by
Faith Hunter
Michelle Olson
, April 20, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Kathy M: Faith Hunter is a rockstar and her Jane Yellowrock series sets the bar for what urban fantasy should be. Blood Trade, Ms. Hunter’s latest installment of this awesome series, is hard hitting and fast paced. The Naturaleza’s, vamps who believe that the ways of old when humans where only for food and slavery, are trying to bring back the good old days. Innocents are dying and witches are disappearing, and it is up to Jane to figure out what is going on and stop it before it is too late. With the help of her “posse” and Beast, the soul of the mountain lion who lives inside her, Jane sets out to do just that. In Blood Trade, we learn more about Jane’s past, as well as more about the past of several of the individuals in her life. Secrets are revealed. Still more mysteries are uncovered. New questions surface. I found myself wanting to read faster to see what was around the corner, yet not wanting to reach the end, because that would mean that I’d have to wait until I could get my next Yellowhawk fix. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Blood Trade an easy 5 skulls!
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Sharp
by
Alex Hughes
Michelle Olson
, April 19, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review It's almost difficult to put into words what this book (and series) have to offer... It's a first person Sci-Fi - told from the point of view of our flawed and yet utterly lovable hero - with the grittiness of Urban Fantasy, the pace and intrigue of a good mystery, and some wonderful action and romantic tension thrown in for good measure, all rolled into an utterly unique and captivating world where Technology is the big bad. It was a refreshing and fascinating read, with similarities to The Dresden Files, The Asylum Tales, Lost Girl and Sookie Stackhouse, though very much its own beautiful monster. In other words, I thoroughly enjoyed it! :) LITERAL ADDICTION gives Sharp 4 Skulls and would definitely recommend it to Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Urban Fantasy readers.
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Clean Mindspace Investigations 1
by
Alex Hughes
Michelle Olson
, April 19, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Guest Reviewer - Tanya C: Clean by Alex Hughes gets off to a good start right away. I really enjoyed the way the main male character and Cherabino interacted. I also loved that the storyline mainly focused on solving crimes and that there were so many characters with different talents that involved using their minds. The amount of suspense had me hooked, and I know that I will be reading more books written by Alex Hughes. There was also tons of action, and the characters were incredibly well developed; each character had plenty of flaws, which is just one thing that makes for a good book. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Clean 4 Skulls and would recommend it.
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Pocket Full of Posies: Book 2 of the Lana Harvey, Reapers Inc. Series
by
Angela Roquet
Michelle Olson
, April 01, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: Even better than the first! I hopped on Pocket Full of Posies immediately after finishing Graveyard Shift, finished it the same day, and my only complaint... that I didn't have more right that very second! Lana, our Reaper heroine is back with her cast of friends and things just keep getting more and more interesting. Gabriel the archangel is still one of the most important sub-characters of the book, and he's starting to clean himself up a bit. Josie's starting to lighten up a bit and she and Lana have become even closer, even though there are things that Josie resents about Lana, particularly the fact that she keeps getting singled out for promotions when she totally doesn't deserve them. Lana has a boyfriend now, Maalik, a fallen angel, and while they're good together, he sort of has a control problem and Lana is not loving it so much. There are also some new players - Jenni, Kevin, and some additional higher ups we only got hints of in book #1. Angela lets us in on the big mystery that was outstanding in Graveyard Shift in Pocket Full of Posies, and we get to finally find out why Lana is different than other Reapers. While it's cool, it could end up getting her killed and may end up costing her friends and loved ones if she doesn't figure out how to make things settle down. I'd love to tell you more, but I refuse to ruin the awesome goodness. Like book #1, Pocked Full of Posies had laughs, lots of mystery, tons of action, a surprising bunch of great romance, a cast that you can't help but love, and a story that never lets you rest. I stand by my initial impressions of book #1 - this series has become a new obsession for me and I cannot wait to get more from Angela. She easily insinuated herself into my Favorite UF Author list and I can't see that changing any time soon. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Pocked Full of Posies 5 Skulls and if you enjoy Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance or even Mystery I really think you've love Angela's books. LANA HARVEY, REAPERS INC has instantly become a new 1 Click Auto-PreOrder for me. Check it out!!
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Graveyard Shift: (lana Harvey, Reapers Inc.)
by
Angela Roquet
Michelle Olson
, April 01, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: We have an Event planned with Angela in April through Book Monster Promotions, so I decided to give the book a shot so we'd have a review to go along with the post. While I figured I had nothing to lose going in for the read, my immediate reaction upon finishing the book was quite different, all I could say was "Ooh I love it when review books turn into new obsessions! I LOVED this book and cannot wait to read more. Way to go Angela!" :) Our heroine, Lana, is a reaper employed by an organization owned and run by Grim (yeah that Grim). She's sort of a slacker, doing her job but not much more, and just trying to stay off of the big guys' radar. One of her closest friends, however, Josie, is an incredibly ethical reaper, following all of the rules to the letter. The two own a ship together (the only way to drop their souls off above and below as determined, is to sail across a sea in Limbo), and sometimes their relationship can get a little strained, especially when odd things start happening in Limbo and nobody knows quite why. Add in one of their other closest friends, the hot mess of an archangel Gabriel, and you have a very interesting group. :) If you're a Urban Fantasy reader like me who loves a variety of supe groups in your books, you will adore this series. It has Reapers, Spirits, creatures from Mythology, Demons, Angels, and more, and all of it is blended seamlessly into an endlessly entertaining (and surprisingly accurate) pastiche. I laughed out loud, I swore under my breath, I cheered on our kick butt heroine, I cringed when things went bad, it was fabulous, and having just done a bunch of online research on the classifications of angels and demons for something else, I was very pleased to see the amount of research that went into the creation of this book, without it taking anything away from the lightheartedness of the story. There's not a lot of romance in here, but it's a Urban Fantasy Mystery that will keep you turning pages late into the night and wishing you could call in sick to work the next day. Angela Roquet quickly became one of my new favorite UF authors and I am jumping into book two immediately. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Graveyard Shift 5 Skulls and emphatically recommends it!
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Sinner's Heart
by
Zoe Archer
Michelle Olson
, April 01, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson *ARC Received from the Author in exchange for an honest Review Sinner's Heart is the 3rd installment of Zoe Archer's HELLRAISERS series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone thanks to the author's subtle way of catching the reader up when needed throughout the story. After the events in Devil's Kiss and Demon's Bride, we are down to our last 2 Hellraisers and world full of chaos. The evil is being felt far and wide and John - our studious hellraiser - is hell bent (pun intended) on carrying out the Dark One's wishes, taking over, and literally making hell on earth. Bram - the warrior hellraiser - has decided that life isn't all it's cracked up to be even with the 'gifts' fron the Dark One. With the help of the beautiful, and sometimes aggravating, ghost, Livia, Bram decides to make a stand. Throughout the tale we get some heart racing action, wonderful historical moments, thrilling horror, and breath-quickening romance - seriously, one of the scenes is quite possibly one of the sexiest scenes I have read in a good long while, and I read A LOT! LITERAL ADDICTION gives Sinner's Heart 5 Skulls and highly recommends it. I would suggest that you read the entire trilogy thus far in order, but if you're absolutely dying to read Sinner's Heartand just don't have the time to read the 2 previous installments of the series, it can be read as a stand-alone novel, though you will be missing out on some wonderful reading... :)
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Surrender
by
Stephanie Tyler
Michelle Olson
, April 01, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: Well, I'm no longer a Romantic Suspense virgin, and I am so, SO happy that I chose Surrender to be my first - the book was amazing!! ;-) SECTION 8 is a spin-off of Stephanie's other Romantic Suspense series, but Surrender can easily be read as a stand-alone. There is plenty of back-story provided when needed to make the book flow smoothly, but a word of warning... when you finish Surrender you're going to want to go back and read everything Stephanie has ever written. :) The book is chock full of suspense, mystery, intrigue, action and romance, and is written so superbly you will be turning pages frantically and swearing under your breath when you're forced to take a break. Our team of characters - Dare, Grace, Jem, Key, Gunner and Avery are brought together to solve the mystery behind the deaths and disappearances of their loved ones and just make it out the other side alive. Their alliance isn't an easy one, however. Each has their secrets, and there is a lot of mistrust given the covert nature of Section 8 and what's been happening. The uneasy alliance makes for some wicked tension (both romantic and otherwise) and creates an amazing romantic suspense! The plot twists were wonderful; Stephanie had me shaking my head on several occasions and kept my heart rate up through the majority of the book, and while I'd love to tell you more, I don't do spoilers so you're just going to have to go and check it out for yourself! There was plenty of set up for the upcoming books in the series as well and I can't wait to see what will happen. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Surrender 4 1/2 Skulls and HIGHLY recommends it!
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Allusive Aftershock
by
Susan Griscom
Michelle Olson
, April 01, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: I will openly admit that while I adore Susan's writing, I was a little bit leery to read this one, but the minute I flipped the last page, all I could say was "Awww". In all seriousness though, I don't read non-para, especially not non-para YA (I actually just read my very first romantic suspense 2 weeks ago!) and even with that said, I really enjoyed this book - no teen angst or the traditional love triangles of a traditional YA, just people dealing with real world tragedy and emotions. The characters are relatable, likeable, and solidly developed, the world is real, extensively built, and shockingly vivid in its telling. I love the way that Susan writes and I am happy that I took a chance on her YA debut. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Allusive Aftershock 4 Skulls and would definitely recommend it for YA fans far and wide. It's a beautiful story!!
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Lost Celestial Blues Book Two
by
Vicki Pettersson
Michelle Olson
, March 22, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Pack Alpha ��" Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from Edelweiss Like its predecessor, The Taken, The Lost is a highly emotional, deep, mysterious and entertaining urban fantasy read. Again, Vicki makes a clear underlying statement with The Lost. The Taken taught us that life is worth living and should be enjoyed one day at a time never fearing death, and The Lost explores the very human weaknesses that we all suffer from ��" jealousy, insecurity, doubt, etc ��" by bringing them to light and working through them via the characters. Seeing the struggle and resolution through the leading couple made me as a reader believe that despite what it feels like some days, all things are possible and love can conquer all with some determination, hope and faith. The Lost explores a brand new mystery base ��" this time a turf war between rival drug cartels, and a new street drug that is simply sickening. It’s thrilling, surprising in many places, and you can’t help but root for the good guys and sneer wickedly at the villains throughout the tale. We also got get to meet more of the supporting cast in The Lost and get introduced to some wonderful new destinations within the CELESTIAL BLUES universe. We’re introduced to a very intriguing ‘big bad’ in Scratch, see the Eternal Forest, and learn more about The Fallen as well. In addition, we learn more about Grif’s situation and get some more bits and pieces in the mystery of “Who Killed Griffin Shaw?”, plus we find out additional information regarding Kit’s past and her mysteries. The arc of this series is progressing quickly, but it’s to be expected with a planned trilogy. I can’t wait to see how things play out with the investigation into Grif and Evie’s 50 year old murder and Kit’s need to know what happened with the murder of her father. I also can’t wait to continue the journey with Kit and Grif as they grow as individuals and deal with the things that are determined to tear them apart while learning more and more about just why they love each other. CELESTIAL BLUES is a unique and fascinating series and I feel that romantic suspense, mystery romance, paranormal romance and urban fantasy readers while like it. I do, however, suggest that you read the series in order and not try to read The Lost as a standalone novel. LITERAL ADDICTION gives The Lost 4 Skulls and I can’t wait for the thrilling conclusion to the CELESTIAL BLUES series. Thank you Vicki for giving me something thrilling and unique to sink my sometimes bored reading teeth into. :)
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Blood & Magick Deacon Chalk Occult Bounty Hunter
by
James R. Tuck
Michelle Olson
, March 21, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC received from NetGalley I've been called 'a guys' girl' on more than one occasion because of my tastes... I'm a sports junkie, the more things that blow up or people that get killed during my movie choices the better, and I am constantly on the prowl for books that disturb me or are dark enough to make me chuckle evilly and mutter a proud "hell yeah!". Well, James's DEACON CHALK series delivers and then some! :) I have loved this series from book .5, and am a proud James R. Tuck fangirl. Immediately upon finishing this installment my first impression words were: "Wow James! They just keep getting better. This installment was even darker, grittier, more action packed, violent, snarky, & emotional than the 1st two, and dare I say... yes, very SEXY! :). Everything changed in this book, and SO many doors have been opened for the series. If it's even possible, I am even more excited for the next book than I was for this one." Blood and Magick picks up right after the climactic events of Blood and Silver, wherein Deacon is enjoying some downtime with his crew. Like usual though, it can't last, and all hell breaks loose. There are some psychotic witches and wizards trying to kill them all, and an entire restaurant and movie theater are blown to kingdom come (and that's just in the first couple chapters!) During the remainder of this adrenaline fueled joyride, Deacon and the gang must battle all kinds of creatures and tons of personal demons besides. There is more action than you know what to do with, betrayal, mystery, romance, heartbreak, and much, much more. At one point (as I was cackling evilly and muttering my "hell yeahs") I wondered how much more I could take as a reader. Then I shook my head and thought, Bring It! and I'm sure James will do just that. There are hints of bigger and badder things to come, and even though it's hard to imagine how the series could possibly be any more intense than it already is, I personally believe that James is up for the challenge and I cannot wait to see what's next! This series is a unique, fascinating and captivating thrill ride. The preternaturals are not sexy, they all want to rip your face off, most can turn your stomach with a glimpse, and based on Deacon's convictions, there is no gray area - magick is bad and bad is evil. The heroes are damaged but lovable, the setting is believable despite the utter fantasy, there are tons of surprises, and despite the bits of closure we receive as the arc progresses, I'm not entirely sure that ANYONE really wins in the end. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Blood and Magick 4 1/2 Skulls and highly recommends this series to readers looking for a dark, gritty, action-packed read with heroes you can't help but love and villains you love to loathe. NOTE: I do suggest that readers read the eNovellas that accompany the series in the order that they are meant to be read with the full-length novels. While they're not absolutely integral to the comprehension of the series as a whole, they do fill in holes and make the entire experience just that much more enjoyable. More James, more!! :)
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Die for Me: A Novel of the Valentine Killer
by
Cynthia Eden
Michelle Olson
, March 21, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: A good murder-mystery thriller is like chocolate for me, and I devour Patterson, Deaver, Johansen and more whenever I can.... Die for Me was like the best chocolate found in the far corners of Europe, and I LOVED very single page! It's an action packed, gripping psychological thriller that had me yearning for more. Having only read Cynthia's Paranormals prior to this, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it, and will definitely be checking out some of her other RS titles ASAP. Our villain is a super creepy serial killer. He's damaged, scarred, and obsessive beyond comprehension and has his sights set on the only woman he's ever been able to truly love (or so his warped mind believes). Our hero is a no-nonsense detective, but he has a weakness for his initial suspect, the villain's ex-fiance, and victim, Katherine. The internal struggles he deals with when torn between duty and his heart are incredibly emotional and definitely believable. Katherine is a very strong heroine, even though she has her obvious weaknesses. She survived the nightmare of finding out that her fiance was a killer and is determined to bring him to justice no matter the cost. The mystery is full of twists & turns, and even though some of the outcomes were predictable, it made the story no less intense and compelling. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Die for Me 4 Skulls and believes it will make both romance and suspense lovers happy. I can't wait to check out more romantic suspense from Cynthia Eden!
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Eve of Chaos
by
Sylvia Day, S J Day
Michelle Olson
, March 17, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: I loved this book! The book picks up where the 2nd book, Eve of Destruction, leaves off, with Evangeline trying to figure out how to deal with all of the crap on her plate, her boss missing and presumed dead, and Alec (a.k.a Cain) not at all himself. When Raguel went missing, only a handful of people thought he was still alive given the fact that Cain was promoted to archangel (presumably to fill his void). Eve feels that she would KNOW if he was dead though, and is bound and determined to find and rescue him. Unfortunately, that's only 1 of her MANY problems. She is on the run from Satan (what's new, right!?) after recently running over his dog, her relationship with Alec (Cain) is getting worse and worse following his promotion and the strangeness he's exhibiting because of it, and she's not sure what to do with her growing feelings for Reed (Abel). The entire book from beginning to end is chock full of action. There are some super sexy moments (something you don't always get in an Urban Fantasy), characters that you can't help but love and hate, and a tantalizing plot with hints and sub-stories that are utterly compelling. Even though I generally don't like love triangles, the tension filled relationship between Cain (Alec), Eve and Reed (Abel) is essential to the plot of these books and thoroughly enjoyable in its own right (as surprising as I found that to be, personally). :) As you may have noticed online, MARKED is listed in most places as a "Trilogy". Given the ending of this book it's just not possible... it would be utterly unfair to leave the reader with so many questions and jaw dropping awe. After a little research, I discovered that because of SJ's dual writing personality, there was more need for her time on her other series and therefore, these books didn't get picked up again. They have been re-released now with new covers and things, and thankfully, the follow-up novella Eve of Warfare that supposedly wraps things up a bit is still available in eBook format (yes I will be reading this ASAP!). There is actually another short story following that, Eve of Sin City, so us MARKED fans have a tiny bit more before we have to say adieu. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Eve of Chaos 5 Skulls and would recommend the entire series to Urban Fantasy fans far and wide. I think Paranormal Romance readers who enjoy plots rooted in religion would enjoy these books as well. There isn't a lot of romance, but when it's there, it's fabulous.
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Frost Burned Mercy Thompson 7
by
Patricia Briggs
Michelle Olson
, March 05, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Associate Reviewer - Shawnie: *ARC was given to do an honest review of the book. This will be a spoiler free review (sorry to disappoint). It's finally here, Mercy Thompson is back and better than ever. I have to admit I was just a tad bit nervous to start this book. I had previously read an excerpt Briggs had posted and it had me scared for Adam and his wolves. But temptation's name is "books", and before I knew it, I was was turning to page one and then finishing the book immediately thereafter. My first words upon completion were "Holly fires, Batman. She did it again." Briggs brings us back to the Tri-Cities, with Mercy all better after her last adventure during her honeymoon with her sexy Alpha husband Adam. In this installment, our wonderful author queen takes us back and then delves into the issues that had began to arise in Mercy's surrounding world - and if you hadn't noticed, she pieces her other series in so that you understand and follow along evenly with her. Briggs weaves an interesting story around what has happened with the fae, the government, and the humans Mercy interacts with. She craftily expands and blends a melting pot of emotions, back stories, and 'oh crap batman, did that just happen?' together to produce an (in my opinion) award winning novel for her readers. Action has been a standing theme of all Briggs books, but with this one, she slows it down and gives us a deeper, more 'thought than deed' Mercy, who still has no issues kicking butt and taking names for her husband and Pack. Mercy has to think her way out of almost every situation, and enlist the help of friends and allies ��" some more grudgingly than others. But the action is there regardless, because hello, you can't think your way out of everything, sometimes you are forced to fight! The Pack and Adam are in serious danger and Mercy has to figure out a way to not only help them, but get to the bottom of what is really going on. Emotions run high and just when you think things can't get better, a very "special" something pokes his head in to give his two cents. But alas , just because it's better, doesn't mean things are fixed. No, there are always twists, bumps and some scrape a longs to keep you twitching on the edge of your seat. Frost Burned is packed to the brim with surprises, humor and emotional tear jerking moments. There are good guys, bad guys, and the really bad guys. There are "Oh My God, noooooooo" moments and "Yeah, that's right take them down", moments. Because hey.... That's what you get when you have a pissed off Alpha, loose government loyalties and a feud that spreads to neighboring parties and causes this whole messed up situation. I happily enjoyed this installment and cannot wait for the seventh book to be announced, soon I hope (fingers crossed). I know I shouldn't do this, but damn this is quote worthy... "Are you not my daughter, whispered another voice, Coyote's voice, so quiet I almost missed it. Had I not been caught in that first moment of shock when everything goes quiet before the pain begins, I would not have heard it. Coyote never loses, Coyote told me. Because i change the rules of the games my enemies play. What are the rules of your game." Yeah awesome, is it not? I can honestly give this book a five star rating, because it actually deserves it. Great read Mrs. Briggs!
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Death, Doom, and Detention
by
Darynda Jones
Michelle Olson
, March 05, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: Death, Doom & Detention, book #2 of Darynda Jones's DARKLIGHT series is a great continuation installment with lots of great moments, tons of character growth for the leading characters' supporting cast, a new evil villain, and a wonderfully developing storyline. I didn't love it as much as the first book, but it was still a very enjoyable read. Darynda does an amazing job of both making the book work well as a stand-alone, yet allow many of the missing pieces from book #1 to be filled in for those of us that read and enjoyed it. To be honest, I think the reason I didn't love this release as much as the debut was the lack of Jared, and therefore the lack of the continuation of Jared and Lorelei's love story. The necessity of Jared's removal for much of the main story allowed for a lot more Brooke and Cameron though, and THAT I thoroughly enjoyed! It solidified one of the things that I loved most about Darynda's YA... the lack of a love triangle for the leading characters! There is somewhat of a love triangle amongst the supporting cast, but it's subtle, and even that is broken up by the introduction of another interest. Like all of Darynda's books, DD&D is chock full of mystery, and while this release wasn't as action packed as I generally expect from Darynda, it was very intense towards the end and ended with a crazy cliffhanger that had me wishing for Death and the Girl He Loves immediately. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Death, Doom and Detention 4 Skulls and would suggest that those who started the series definitely read it! And while I would still suggest it for those looking for a good stand-alone, my personal opinion is that the series is better served by enjoying the books in order.
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The Last Grave
by
Debbie Viguie
Michelle Olson
, March 03, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review I unexpectedly received the first book of this series (The Thirteenth Sacrifice) from the Publisher back before it was released in 2012. After reading (and loving!) it, I immediately reached out to Penguin to see if I could possibly do a promotional Event for book 2 as soon as the release date was announced. In true 'happy dance' fashion, I was told that a copy was already on its way... As soon as the book arrived in the mail I settled in. Later that night, I wrote this on GoodReads: "O.M.G! 5 Skulls is not enough for this intensely insane thrill ride! Book #1 was amazing, but this installment was so gripping I couldn't put it down & stayed up most of the night reading. I cannot wait for Circle of Blood!" The Last Grave starts a short time in the future following the Events of The Thirteenth Sacrifice, wherein Samantha has moved to California to start fresh following the catastrophic battle between herself and her old coven back in her old hometown that basically left her the last witch standing. She's once again attempting to leave her old life behind and live the life she has earned as a homicide detective, instead of the life she was born into as a dark witch. Unfortunately, the new murder that she and her partner are investigating has an undeniable magickal signature, and Samantha quickly learns that her attempt at a 'normal' life just isn't going to happen. At least not yet. There is just SO much that happens in this book, and so many twists and turns that this review is incredibly difficult to write; especially given that I don't write spoilery reviews... I can tell you this much: I lost count at how many times I changed my mind regarding what I thought was going on, & every time I had another "huh?" moment, Debbie would introduce one more action-packed sequence and have me shaking my head with wonder. There were twists, turns and surprises around every corner, & it was jam packed with action. Book #1 was quite dark, but The Last Grave was even darker (something I THOROUGHLY enjoy in my books), and the storyline was incredibly unique and undoubtedly mysterious & intriguing. I personally loved the book and would recommend it to anyone!! If you've read some of the other pre-release reviews out there are are confused at the discrepancy in ratings, here are my 2 cents - While I'm sure Debbie intended The Last Grave to be a stand-alone novel, it would be much better enjoyed and understood by readers who have read Book #1. In addition, this isn't a quick and lighthearted read. It's dark, it's deep, and I would highly suggest that if you'd like to take the plunge (and I would recommend that you do), that you do it when you have time to utterly devote to a book without outside distractions or too much on your mind. The storyline weaved throughout The Last Grave requires a decent amount of thought to follow along with and navigate all of the twists, and in my opinion, would be much better received as an uninterrupted read. With all of that said, LITERAL ADDICTION gives The Last Grave 5 Skulls and is incredibly excited for book #3.
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Edge of Dawn A Midnight Breed Novel
by
Lara Adrian
Michelle Olson
, January 30, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC received from NetGalley MIDNIGHT BREED is one of my very favorite Paranormal Romance series and I auto-pre-order each new release. After finishing Sterling's book and hearing that Mira's book was next, I was both excited and a bit scared... I just wasn't sure how a spin-off would sit with me, and yet I wasn't ready to leave the world by any stretch of the imagination either. When I got the ARC from NetGalley and finally had a chance to sit down with it I breathed a sigh of relief, and shouldn't have been worried at all in the first place. Not only did Lara deliver an amazing book, Edge of Dawn is quite possibly my favorite Breed novel to date. It was wonderful! Having known Mira since Renata brought her to the Compound as a little girl, seeing her all grown up as the captain of one of the Order's main fighting groups brought both a sense of wonder and pride. Not only is she a Breedmate, and therefore human, not Breed, but she's female as well and being that highly ranked is just something that doesn't happen. The interim events with Kellan were a bit of a surprise. I sort of had a feeling that Mira might end up with him despite their age difference back in the earlier books, but I was very shocked at the dark turn Lara took with the story and how she unveiled and unraveled it all in Edge of Dawn. It was gripping, emotional, frustrating, maddening, and romantic all at the same time. I liked how the world was changed in this book as well - humans know about the breed now, wars have been waged because of it and lives on all sides have been lost, there is a tentative kind of truce amongst the many factions and yet, as usual, an evil lurks, threatening to cause even more upheaval. All of the changes allowed for me as a diehard MIDNIGHT BREED fan to have something a little bit different, but still have some closure and a bit of a fix with the reappearance and new positions of my favorites as well. I really enjoyed the heavier, darker, more intense MIDNIGHT BREED and cannot wait to see where Lara takes us with this new generation and their fight against the new big bad! LITERAL ADDICTION gives Edge of Dawn 5 Skulls.
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Blood Oranges
by
Caitlin R Kiernan, Kathleen Tierney
Michelle Olson
, January 30, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC Received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest Review When I opened the package from the Publisher containing this book I was immediately intrigued, but wasn't sure that I'd get to it any time soon and simply added it to the pile of 'read when/if time allows'. After looking the book up on GoodReads and finding that I had other titles by the author and her pseudonym in my TBR list, I decided to bump it up a bit in the queue. I am SO happy that I did. Blood Oranges wasn't at all what I was expecting, but it was wonderful. Truly, uniquely, & darkly "real" - only in a fantastical way - and the 1st person narrative was compelling, gripping, & profound. Add all of that together with the tale itself and the setting, and it was a dark urban fantasy meant to ensnare. I'm not entirely sure that this book is for everyone, but I loved it! I think maybe I loved it BECAUSE of all of the things others might not like... It's blatantly honest in it's delivery. It purposefully makes the reader feel awkward at times. It doesn't adhere to (and in reality, entirely disregards!) any and all preconceived notions regarding the genre - the vampires in this book have piranha teeth and shark eyes, the werewolves are as far from sexy as you can get, the heroine doesn't want to be a monster hunter and is admittedly a junkie and a liar, etc), and the first person narrative is slang filled, non-linear, and very obviously written by someone who is not a writer (something Quinn, our heroine, makes sure to remind us about). :) Bottom line, if you want to try something different within Urban Fantasy, I highly suggest giving Blood Oranges a shot. I think that this is the first book of a series, and I really hope that it is, because I find myself wanting to fall into Quinn's dysfunctional world again some day. :) LITERAL ADDICTION gives Blood Oranges 4 Skulls.
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Hunting Daylight
by
Piper Maitland
Michelle Olson
, January 30, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC Received from the Publisher in exchange for an honest Review When this book came in the mail from the Publisher and I looked up the series on GoodReads I knew immediately that I'd want to read them. I didn't, however, expect to enjoy it as much as I did. This is a long book, it's 560 pages, and I absolutely could not put it down! My first reaction upon finishing it was this: "Oh wow! I rarely cry over books, but the hold that this book had over me & the ending had me in tears for sure. Outside of that, it was like a James Bond/Bourne Legacy flick meets Blood Diamond on paper, all with vampires... Super strong & sassy heroines. Incredible heroes. Utterly despicable villains, & a story that just wouldn't quit. I loved it all!!" Husband and wife, Caro and Jude, are madly in love but in need of money. They have a 3 year old daughter whose very existence sparks fanaticism and has had them on the run for years just to be safe. You see, Caro is a hybrid, a 1/2 vampire, and Jude is a vampire, but wasn't when Vivi was conceived, thus making Vivi a 1/4 vampire and the talk of the entire immortal race for one reason or another; especially those that are of the paranoid or superstitious variety. In order to make some extra money for the family, Jude decides to take a position in the African rainforests for a company called Al Din, utilizing his skills as a biochemist to study a new species of bat that has been discovered, but he has no idea what he's walking into there and he mysteriously disappears, leaving long time friend of the family and Godfather to Vivi, Raphael, to step in once again as protector and continue the farce he's played for well over a decade, denying his feelings for Caro while trying to convince himself that just being part of her and Vivi's life is enough. *sigh* Oh how I'd love to tell you more, but I don't do spoiler reviews, so you're just going to have to check it out for yourself to find out what happens! :) Let me just say this in addition to my little summation in my intro above - While this book is an Urban Fantasy it felt so very real! While unbelievably action packed and full of twists and turns, danger, intrigue and surprises, it all felt like it could happen (albeit with a little stretch of the imagination of course, but that's why we read UF and PNR, right!?). It also has some wonderful romance, and was so vividly written in every aspect that I truly was drawn in and invested in everything the book had to offer. LITERAL ADDICTION gives Hunting Daylight 5 Skulls and highly recommends it! The last bits of the book took my breath away and I can only hope that the next installment shakes things up even more. I have found a new top 10 UF series and can't wait for more from Piper.
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Between Book 1
by
Kerry Schafer
Michelle Olson
, January 30, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *ARC received from the Pub in exchange for an honest review THE BETWEEN is a brand new Urban Fantasy series unlike anything I've read before, & one I will be returning to as soon as I can... Between is the debut novel of this new series about dream shifter, Vivian, who was kept in the dark about her origins and her past and who has trouble reconciling things because she's a doctor and puts her stock in science and what she can see, not myth and magic. The problem is that she DOES see these things, and after awhile, she can't deny that something is going on and she needs to get to the bottom of it. The other world that Vivian is a part of and unwittingly thrown back into is a magical, mystical place full of dragons, knights, and yes, even an evil queen, and things don't always go as planned or end up 'happily ever after'. That was one thing that I really loved about the book - it was surprising, and wonderfully unique, and while a lot of debut books can be a bit overwhelming with setting up the characters, the world, the backstory, etc, Between seemed just right to me. :) The ending was great! It left me wanting the next installment, but didn't make me want to scream and throw things because I needed more immediately to feel like I got closure. There is a lot to be done to make things right, a lot of riddles still to be solved, additional character development to be had, etc, so I can't wait to see what book #2 has in store when I finally get my hands on it. Bottom line is that Kerry has a winner here and I couldn't put it down. Random side note: If you follow my site or me on Facebook, you know that I'm a HUGE Edgar Allan Poe fan (I even named my black cat Poe Rayvn). There is a penguin in this book that Vivian names Poe and he is the cutest thing ever! :) LITERAL ADDICTION gives Between 4 Skulls and definitely recommends it to Urban Fantasy readers looking for something new and fun.
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Blood of the Sorceress
by
Maggie Shayne
Michelle Olson
, January 21, 2013
Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle L. Olson: *eARC received from NetGalley Immediately upon finishing this book my exact words were: "Whoa! I've read a lot of good books in my time. A LOT. Heck, I've read a ton of amazing Maggie Shayne books! But The Portal series has literally blown me away, and this installment..... I'm speechless right now. It literally took my breath away, made my heart pound so hard it almost hurt, and gave me goosebumps besides. Absolutely incredible!!" THE PORTAL series is truly epic. Full of magick, romance, intrigue, action and heart. It pulls you along and doesn't let go and makes you yearn for the next installment immediately upon finishing the one at hand. Blood of the Sorceress, being the final book of the series was perfectly set, wrapped everything up beautifully, and even opened the way for a spin-off series should Maggie ever decide she might like to do one. *fingers crossed* I hate that I can't go on and on about the book as a whole, but I just can't without spoilers. I can tell you that there is a romance that has endured eons, a family that loves each other unconditionally despite their troubles, a villain that is absolutely despicable, action and intrigue that, while somewhat expected, were perfectly set into the storyline, supporting characters that you love and need, and prose that makes you wish you didn't ever have to put the book down. I would recommend Blood of the Sorceress and the entire PORTAL series starting with the eNovella prequel, Legacy of the Witch, to EVERYONE and hope that others will get just as carried away on this spellbinding journey has I have. These books are already getting a bit worn and I can foresee them becoming quite ratty as the years wear on, whether that be realistically or metaphorically with the eBook versions, simply because they deserve a re-read (or 2 or 3...) and more than deserve to be shared! LITERAL ADDICTION gives Blood of the Sorceress a very well deserved 5 Skulls. I'm sad to see the series end, but I am honored to have been a part of the journey!
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