Fantasy and SciFi

Fantasy and Science Fiction Book Reviews

Review of Magic Bites

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Synopsis:
Kate Daniels is a down-on-her-luck mercenary who makes her living cleaning up magical problems. But when Kate’s guardian is murdered, her quest for justice draws her into a power struggle between two strong factions within Atlanta’s magic circles. Pressured by both sides to find the killer, Kate realizes she’s way our of her league—but she wouldn’t want it any other way…

Review:
This book really reads like an attempt for a female Harry Dresden, which is what I found myself thinking during most of this reading. A mix of Dresden Files entwined with The Southern Vampire Mysteries. While I did find it intriguing, and definitely had some jaw dropping moments, I couldn’t help but wish I had just picked the Dresden files back up. I do believe part of my disconnect was that there were a lot of magical things, powers, etc, thrown at the reader and just expected to be understood. There was way more telling than showing, and a lot of information dumps. All in all, I am glad to have finished it, but do not intend to continue on in this series.

This book has already been passed along, and I will have to see how it was received if it has already been read. I have followed up by gifting Storm Front to the friend who received this book.

Star rating: ✯✯✯

Review of Dance of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson

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Synopsis:
A formidable outlaw family that claims to be the first among nations.

A son destined to lead, thrust suddenly into power.

Three fierce young women of the Rahtan, the queen’s premier guard.

A legendary street thief leading a mission, determined to prove herself.

A dark secret that is a threat to the entire continent.

When outlaw leader meets reformed thief, a cat-and-mouse game of false moves ensues, bringing them intimately together in a battle that may cost them their lives—and their hearts.

Review:
* While I reviewed the second book first, I assure you that I read them in the proper order and merely have gotten out of sync with paper book reviews versus kindle.

Kazi and Jase are impossible to dislike. They have very different upbringings, personalities, and expectations for themselves and their futures. I absolutely love seeing strong empowering women, and this book was full of them! There was great intrigue, and an incredible adventure. I quite loved this book, and immediately bought the second book to learn what happened next.

While I would recommend this book and the sequel, it isn’t one that is going to stay in paper form with me, but I am certain I’ll find someone else who will enjoy it.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of The Taking by Erin McCarthy

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Synopsis:
His gift is dark desire…

Nearly a century ago, Felix Leblanc made a deal with the demon of greed. Now he’s the most celebrated and powerful voodoo priest in New Orleans, able to enchant anything he wishes from wealthy, beautiful women. Until one client, beautiful and dangerous, brings his reign to a disastrous end, condemning Felix to servitude and a loveless eternity of never being wanted for himself.

In modern-day New Orleans, Heiress Regan Henry knows that passion can be an illusion, and she keeps her emotions in check, until she falls under the spell of the beguiling Felix LeBlanc. He knows that the rumors that her mansion is haunted are true, and that he’s the only one who can save her from the spirits residing there. But the only way he can do it is to sacrifice his last chance at redemption- or risk a love that could consign them both to an eternity of evil.

Review:
I absolutely loved this book. Felix was so easy to care about and want to learn more from. I absolutely adored how Regan learned to stand on her own feet and that she was willing to do whatever it took to make her own choices and not be trapped trying to be a puppet. The passion mixed in with the voodoo and past connections was truly perfection.

We have come to the continuation of paper book reviews (all previous to this posted in January were leftover kindle reviews from last year). This is a book I happened to grab from the dollar store while awaiting the call to pick someone up nearby. While I did like it, it likely isn’t one I’ll hold on to.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯

Review of Lady Avely’s Guide to Guile and Peril by Rosalie Oaks

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Synopsis:
A widow shouldn’t infiltrate a military fort… unless she is wearing a mobcap.

When the Duke of Sargen is snatched away before her eyes, Judith knows she must follow him into Pendennis Castle before he can be stripped of his Gift and his memory. After all, she hasn’t had a chance to tell the man that she loves him yet.

But when she finds him imprisoned, Dacian has already forgotten her. Worse, his captor refuses to believe Judith’s testimony and sets her a task to prove her Truth Discernment: discover who killed a soldier found dead on the Cornwall seashore.

The body washed up near Judith’s new domain: a tidal island with a rundown castle, haunted cellars, and massive butler who is most definitely hiding something. Judith must call on all her resourcefulness—and her most trusted companions—to find the truth before the week is up… before Dacian is lost to her forever.

How does one jailbreak a duke if he can’t even remember his own name? Does a killer lurk in Judith’s own castle? And does Lanyon Isle have any drinking chocolate?

The thrilling conclusion to the Matronly Misadventures, featuring an amnesiac duke, a determined widow, and a daring jailbreak. Enjoy a slow burn, low spice second-chance romance and a twisty murder mystery in a magical version of Regency England.

Review:
“As much as one would like to be without guile, sometimes deceit is necessary.” (page 22)

“Pay attention to omissions and evasions.” (Page 138)

“Patience is a virtue, until it is not.” (Page 355)

Ah, this book was perfection! There was so much time spent wondering and worrying about Dacian but Judith shines in her ability to step in and oversee a house, even if she feels overwhelmed by all the new responsibilities. I quite liked her ability to keep her wits about her and see beyond what was obvious. In the grand mystery scheme, I had only figured out part of what was going on before it was revealed. Despite the high stakes of Dacian’s life/memory mixed with Judith caring for her family and the bats, she still kept her mind on the most important tasks at hand, even/especially when she had to involve her children. Marigold is her usual wonderful self, a true part of the family. The ending was almost perfect, and knowing that all the characters shall make an appearance in Eleanor’s book, it seems time that I start The Lady Diviner series.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Uprooted by Naomi Novik

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Synopsis:
Agnieszka loves her valley home, her quiet village, the forests and the bright shining river. But the corrupted Wood stands on the border, full of malevolent power, and its shadow lies over her life.

Her people rely on the cold, driven wizard known only as the Dragon to keep its powers at bay. But he demands a terrible price for his help: one young woman handed over to serve him for ten years, a fate almost as terrible as falling to the Wood.

The next choosing is fast approaching, and Agnieszka is afraid. She knows—everyone knows—that the Dragon will take Kasia: beautiful, graceful, brave Kasia, all the things Agnieszka isn’t, and her dearest friend in the world. And there is no way to save her.

But Agnieszka fears the wrong things. For when the Dragon comes, it is not Kasia he will choose.

Review:
“Try not to borrow more folly than you already possess.” (Page 172)

“I didn’t go gleaning in the forest to find something in particular; I went to find whatever there was to find, and to let the ideas come to me: if I found a heap of mushrooms, we’d have mushroom soup the next day, and if I found flt stones the hole in the road near our house would get mended.” (Page 270)

I was worried when I started this book, having read Damsel by Elana K. Arnold, that this was going to go a very different way. I was so very happy with the unexpected that was found within this novel. The Dragon is formidable and while he seems so other when he visits the village (which he rarely does), he doesn’t expect perfection from Agnieszka. While he has certainly had many guests before, it is clear that what Agnieszka is, is very different than the usual meek and timid maidens that likely have served him.

The synopsis for this novel doesn’t even begin to describe all the intricacies of the book, so I will attempt to without giving things away. This book is excellent for those who excel in nature, find themselves a bit different than others, and love a good strong female protagonist that doesn’t need to be saved, and can be a savior herself, thank you very much.

I’m not sure my sentence synopsis really helps in understanding any more than the one the book has already. There’s magic, mystery, and a lot of gumption needed by a fledgling who finds herself knowing that she can do more than sit around and hope everything will work out. I highly recommend this book to any who love fairy tales, fairy tale retellings, magic, mages, political intrigue, nature, and the forest.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik

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Synopsis:
Miryem is the daughter and granddaughter of moneylenders, but her father’s inability to collect his debts has left his family on the edge of poverty—until Miryem takes matters into her own hands. Hardening her heart, the young woman sets out to claim what is owed and soon gains a reputation for being able to turn silver into gold. When an ill-advised boast draws the attention of the king of the Staryk—grim fey creatures who seem more ice than flesh—Miryem’s fate, and that of two kingdoms, will be forever altered. She will face an impossible challenge and, along with two unlikely allies, uncover a secret that threatens to consume the lands of humans and Staryk alike.

Review:
“But the world I wanted wasn’t the world I lived in, and if I would do nothing until I could repair every terrible thing at once, I would do nothing forever.” (Page 404)

This book was more than I ever could have asked or expected. While clearly a take, in some regard, to Rumpelstiltskin, this book turns the tale on its head. I absolutely loved how the Jewish religion played into this book. As someone who is not of the religion featured, I found it really interesting how in depth the book was, especially regarding the prejudices that many would have from practicing another religion. I loved how everyone was willing to take when they didn’t think there would be any repayments; and that Miryem was done with that. In fact, most of the women featured were done with the glass boxes they were placed within and were ready to do whatever it took to forge something new and worthwhile.

I absolutely loved the Staryk; fey/fae creatures that clearly do not have much care for humans at all. The Staryk king very much suffers from what most do, or so it appears–those who have the power think that they should be able to wield it however they see fit. While there are still stores to be filled with gold, and magic abound, what makes this retelling stand apart is the soul of it all; everyone is doing what they believe is best to serve and save those they love. All of the characters have great depth and history, allowing a deeper understanding of motives and desires.

I wasn’t sure how I would find another book to fall into after this because it really had me. I read and reread Paul O. Zelinsky’s Rumpelstiltskin more times than I could count growing up. I took it out of the school library endlessly, and every week my Grampa read it to me again and again. This book gave me the same feeling of being deeply embroiled in a story that you could truly get lost in. I cannot recommend this novel enough. The ending is truly what makes it a masterpiece. Very well done by Novik!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

*The cover of this book has changed for kindle, and as I prefer the one still listed as the Paperback and Hardcover, that is the picture I have included.

How to Survive a Fairy Bargain by Laura J. Mayo

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Synopsis:
In this hilarious sequel to How to Summon a Fairy Godmother, Theodosia’s already survived being the evil stepsister in one fairy tale, but surviving fae bargains, fairy rings, and being turned into a hedgehog will be a whole new challenge.
 
Theodosia Balfour is in a panic—she has no clue how to handle her new life as a fairy’s familiar. She just can’t seem to find her place in Cecily’s land of decadence, doublespeak, and whimsy.
 
Moreover, Theo can’t stop thinking about Kasra, Cecily’s last familiar who is now living a cozy human life without any memories of his time in a fairy’s service. All she wants is to tell Kaz how she feels about him, but that’s impossible now. Then suddenly, the regent of the fairy kingdom reveals a secret that shocks Theo to her core and thrusts her into the role of detective to solve a thousand-year-old royal assassination attempt.
 
With time running out to catch the would-be assassin, Theo can rely on only her own wits and unique charm to discover what’s really going on.

Review:
This book had the ultimate mystery entwined within, while mixing with the melancholy of a missed connection/lost love. I absolutely loved how Theo’s days changed, and how despite once always worrying about what life would bring, now stuck in monotony. I absolutely loved seeing her make friends and the adventure she and her musical group end up in together, with Cecily! Seeing Cecily’s depth change from being eccentric and slightly held off boss to one willing to share all of herself and her life, not just the good/flashy/party parts was absolutely magical. I also figured out the main instigator before the end, which I was pretty proud of myself for. Despite having an inkling, it in no way changes the enjoyment of the story or the grand reveal.

I loved this book so much, and think anyone who loves comedy, a hint of romance, and fairy tales turned upside down will find this absolutely delightful.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Beauty of the Beast by Rachel L. Demeter

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Synopsis:
The world’s most enchanting and timeless love story—reimagined with a dark and realistic twist.

A BEAST LIVING IN THE SHADOW OF HIS PAST

Reclusive and scarred Prince Adam Delacroix has remained hidden inside a secluded, decrepit castle ever since he witnessed his family’s brutal massacre. Cloaked in shadow, with only the lamentations of past ghosts for company, he has abandoned all hope, allowing the world to believe he died on that tragic eve twenty-five years ago.

A BEAUTY ON THE RUN

Caught in a fierce snowstorm, beautiful and strong-willed Isabelle Rose seeks shelter at a castle—unaware that its beastly and disfigured master is much more than he appears to be. When he imprisons her gravely ill and blind father, she bravely offers herself in his place.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Stripped of his emotional defenses, Adam’s humanity reawakens as he encounters a kindred soul in Isabelle. Together they will wade through darkness and discover beauty and passion in the most unlikely of places. But when a monster from Isabelle’s former life threatens their new love, Demrov’s forgotten prince must emerge from his shadows and face the world once more…

Perfect for fans of Beauty and the Beast and The Phantom of the Opera, Beauty of the Beast brings a familiar and well-loved fairy tale to life with a rich setting in the kingdom of Demrov and a captivating Gothic voice.

*Beauty of the Beast is the first standalone installment in a series of reimagined fairy tales.

Disclaimer: This is a dark historical romance retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Due to graphic subject matter and mature themes, including onscreen SA, death, and profanity, reader discretion is advised. Your mental health matters.

Review:
This book seemed more a combination of Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast, though Adam’s musicality is likely meant to have a Phantom flare. There was definite poverty, and Isabelle was certainly being forced towards whatever it took to make her family alright. While I did read this book completely, it was dark but not in a way I found appealing. Absolutely hated all interactions with her Raphael. Honestly, this is one retelling I could have done without. There were times it was hard to feel positive about any of the characters, or engaged in the storyline.

Star rating: ✯✯

Review of Hemlock and Silver by T. Kingfisher

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Synopsis:
From New York Times bestselling and Hugo Award-winning author T. Kingfisher comes Hemlock & Silver, a dark reimagining of “Snow White” steeped in poison, intrigue, and treason of the most magical kind

Healer Anja regularly drinks poison.

Not to die, but to save— seeking cures for those everyone else has given up on.

But a summons from the King interrupts her quiet, herb-obsessed life. His daughter, Snow, is dying, and he hopes Anja’s unorthodox methods can save her.

Aided by a taciturn guard, a narcissistic cat, and a passion for the scientific method, Anja rushes to treat Snow, but nothing seems to work. That is, until she finds a secret world, hidden inside a magic mirror. This dark realm may hold the key to what is making Snow sick.

Or it might be the thing that kills them all.

Review:
“The human body is a strange combination of incredibly fragile and unspeakably tough.” (Page 46)

I absolutely love Anja, and I think many may not be sure that they like Snow. Anja is stuck in a peculiar situation; if she cannot yield results more than just her own reputation and life may suffer because while the king may not hold it against her, the rest of his subjects certainly would hold that against her family. I absolutely loved how the magic world worked, and of course our wonderful feline guide. I quite enjoyed the rapport between Anja and her guard, as well as how Anja would speak to the King when able. She is a very enjoyable protagonist to follow, and I was rooting for her all the time.

There were so many amazing quips and one liners in this book that it becomes almost impossible to pick one to encompass the feel of the entire story. While I am certain I will have picked one for the beginning of this review, I will share this one that I feel a special kinship with here. “Then I slept badly–I always do, the night before I know I have to be somewhere early–” (Page 55)

This book was such a unique and fun take on Snow White, and I greatly enjoyed it. If you love fairy tale retellings, magic, strong independent women that aren’t necessarily the slimmest, cats, and guards who are good at their jobs (even when it takes them to places they never could have dreamt of) this book is definitely for you!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of My Feral Romance by Tessonja Odette

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Synopsis:
A painter in need of a model.
A matchmaker seeking a subject.
An arrangement that will tangle their hearts.

Fae shifter Daphne has landed the opportunity of a lifetime: illustrating her favorite author’s steamy romance novels. If only she could master male physiques…and other essential anatomy. What she needs is a model. Yet how does the socially awkward fae with a tendency to bite find a man she can comfortably paint in the nude?

Self-proclaimed matchmaker Monty Phillips is a hopeless romantic…but only when it comes to others. Meddling in the love lives of strangers via his popular advice column keeps romance a safe distance away. Yet when he’s tasked with demonstrating his tips on modern courtship, he’ll need to step out from behind the pen and into someone’s love life.

And he knows just the perfect plaything.

The last time Daphne saw Monty, he broke her heart and discarded their friendship. Now he wants to drag her into one of his idiotic matchmaking games—where she’s the subject! But when he promises to pose as her model in exchange, she can’t refuse. At least it’s only temporary. If he’s the expert he claims to be, she can replace him with a lover in no time.

Painting sessions and flirting lessons commence, rekindling their friendship. But when instructional seduction turns their platonic spark into burning desire, will either have the courage to fan the flames?

Bridgerton meets My Fair Lady and He’s Just Not That Into You in My Feral Romance, a spicy standalone fantasy romcom in the Fae Flings and Corset Strings series. Every book in this interconnected series is a complete story and ends with a HEA. If you like fae bargains, friends-to-lovers romance, and cozy fantasy worlds, you’ll love this sizzling tale.

Review:
“… you don’t have to pretend to be anyone you’re not. You deserve to be loved for exactly who you are.” (Chapter 33)

I have loved all of Tessonja Odette’s books, and this is no exception. I did prefer the first book in the Fae Flings and Corset Strings series. I really liked that we saw Daphne and Monty thrown together and how their dynamic changed and yet stayed the same from when she was working as his assistant. I liked getting to know more of both of their pasts, and it was really interesting to see how Daphne grew up, and how that type of life might have shaped someone. There was so much more angst and turmoil in Monty’s past than could possibly be guessed (and I really hadn’t remembered him from the first book I had seen him in when I started this series). The romance was decent, and the way they had to work around fae bargains was *chef’s kiss*.

Another stellar book by Tessonja Odette. If you’re looking for something fairy tale esque, magical, with some spice, this will be a great fit for you!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯

P. S. I don’t like Monty’s dad, and you likely won’t either!