Vampires

Review of The Lies of Vampires and Slayers by K. M. Shea

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Synopsis:
By night, they fight in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse. By day, they are friendly next-door neighbors. Neither of them know that their alter egos are archenemies.

I’ve spent my life training in the family business of slaying vampires, but I’m tired of all the death. I want to prove we slayers can help society, not just break it.

I start my new life by joining the Magiford supernatural task force, which exists to protect humans and supernaturals from harmful magic.

There’s just one problem.

All of my teammates who work the night shift with me are scared of me since slayers are the assassins of the supernatural world. Worse yet, even though I’m doing my best at pretending to be a human during the day—a necessity as a lone slayer can quickly become a dead slayer—I’ve utterly failed to win over any of the humans in my apartment complex since I have the charisma of an overdue investigation report.

That changes when a handsome vampire moves in next door. Connor may not be willing to try any of my failed attempts at baking, but he’s charming and not afraid of me. Plus, he’s the first friend I’ve made who has the time to hang out with me after work.

Things are looking up, or they would be, except a mysterious and extremely powerful vampire has declared downtown his nightly hunting ground. I’m the only one on my team who can match him in a fight, something he finds endlessly entertaining. That isn’t a good sign for my general life expectancy.

My greatest goal might be to win over my squad, but if this vampire doesn’t back off I might not live long enough to achieve it.

The Lies of Vampires and Slayers is the first book in the Magic on Main Street urban fantasy trilogy, and is part of the Magiford Supernatural City world. This series is packed with humor, magical fights, and a sweet, slow burn romance between a slayer who battles social anxiety and a vampire who is sick of his immortality.

Review:
I read this book around a month ago and avoided putting up any reviews for quite some time. The author of this series is going on a hiatus and while I am 100% behind doing what you need to for your health, etc, it is still sad to know that there are no forthcoming books for a while. That being said, I tried to really savour these books as I knew there wouldn’t be anything new in the Magiford world (or any Shea world) for a bit.

This, like the rest of K. M. Shea’s books, was hard to put down. For me, personally, while I do like Jade, she was the hardest to really resonate with as we are very dissimilar. I quite loved the shifting perspective of Jade and Connor, as he remembers that humans are different than vampires and require different care. It was also good to see Drake and Hazel again. I quite liked how Connor didn’t realize how well the Drake family had come to know him- his distaste for everything and everyone, and thoughts on how annoying, overbearing, and stupid most vampire families are. I loved the quip from Jade’s thoughts, “Thank you, Irish heritage that made me pale enough to pass for a ghost.” I also quite enjoyed how Jade was extremely good at her job and it was hard to push her to do anything but be professional when she was in that setting. Another quote I loved was about how the Night Court fae are weirdos for thinking coffee is as good as tea! In the end, the beginning of a lesson was learned that life is beautiful and worth living by letting yourself feel things with people. There are hints of romance in this book, but the majority of it is about finding one’s self in a new situation and trying to fit in; something everyone can relate to. The slow burn potential romance is very much a side plot. While there is quite a bit of a cliffhanger where you want to know more, the second book was already out when I read the first, so it wasn’t that bad.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of How to Fake-Date a Vampire: A magical romantic comedy by Linsey Hall

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Synopsis:
Faking it with a vampire duke should be easy, right?

I’ve got one chance to prove to my coven that I’m worth my wand. But to do it, I’m going to have to make a deal with a vampire duke. I get to use his gorgeous estate in Cornwall to host the Beltane Ball–and in exchange, I’ll pretend to be his girlfriend. But it’s all a show for his grandmother.

The rules of our fake relationship are simple:
No flirting. No emotion. No sex. Easy, right?

Except I can’t seem to ignore the allure of the infuriating and devastatingly sexy vampire. Falling for a duke isn’t an option, though. I would lose the anonymity that protects me and my coven, and that would ruin my life–and the lives of the other witches in my coven.

So yeah, totally easy.

How to Fake-Date a Vampire is a fun, frothy romantic comedy full of laughter, love, and magical hijinks. It’s the second in a series of stand alone romances set in the seaside village of Charming Cove. The books do not need to be read in order.

Review:
This book was quite amusing from the beginning with Emma’s accidental meeting of the “it” guy that everyone wants to sneak a peek of and become close to. Emma wants what everyone wants; to feel part of a family/connected/wanted. While perhaps she starts off a little backhandedly in trying to get everything she wants, seeing her interact with Alaric’s family makes everything seem just within reach. I quite enjoyed Emma’s thoughts on being a witch and about how it made her feel powerful; so long as she is clever and strong enough it is flexible and she can do anything.

Very light in feel/depth, it is understandable why Alaric doesn’t want to open up, but it seemed to me as if the connection between Alaric and Emma was a bit too instant for my liking- there wasn’t a lot of development. Things seemed also a bit too easy to reconcile with a big gesture, as if all the issues/problems leading up had really been nothing and it made it seem as if there had really never been any stakes to what the reader has spent an entire book hoping for. All in all, a quick and easy cozy read of light romantic fantasy; while there isn’t a lot of depth it is a decent read.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️

Review of Of Owl the Nerve by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
When Emma and Eddie’s wedding preparations kick into high gear in Forkbridge, Florida, Astra Arden, Emma’s best friend and witch extraordinaire, is eager to play her part. But a deadly accident at the rehearsal dinner throws a wrench in the festivities.

As Emma’s big day approaches, Astra is caught in a whirlwind of wedding shenanigans—which she isn’t exactly thrilled about. But when an intoxicated guest dies chokes to death at the rehearsal dinner, Astra’s excitement quickly turns to suspicion.

Increasingly mistrustful of the guests and their dubious motives, annoyed that best man Lothian is there every time she turns around, and frustrated that Archie—Astra’s mischievous familiar owl—keeps helping himself to the catered snacks instead of helping her solve the case, can Astra uncover the truth behind this mysterious mishap and save the wedding from disaster?

Review:
This book was awesome. We see our usual stubborn Astra as she attempts to avoid anything to do with her feelings and anything beyond a task. While I was so enthralled with this book, it was truly because we see a completely different side of Lothian. He is always there for Astra, willing to help and trying to be the partner she needs and while it takes her a while to realize it, she has openly asked his opinions and kept him in the loop. Archie does not eat catered snacks and I was a bit disappointed in how little he appeared in this particular novel. I did like all the poolside and outdoor situations we got to see between Astra, Lothian and Emma’s guests. It is also nice to see less of Jason, given the circumstances. I greatly look forward to seeing what happens in book 14!

There were a few bits of wisdom in this book I especially liked, particularly that “Money does strange things to people.” (Page 25, Chapter 2), “But when adversity arises, and confidence runs thin, just remember: you are Astra. Impossibilities and adversity cower in your wake.”(Page 216, Chapter 13) as well as “Sometimes the hardest hearts to reach are the ones most in need of love… And sometimes love means not giving up, even when faced with anger and rejection–or even just simple attitude.” (Page 314, Chapter 19) There was also some quoted Shakespeare; and who doesn’t love that?!

While when I began this series I believed it was completed at 15 books, I have recently learned that apparently the 15th book isn’t out until February… and I’m not so sure it’ll be the last. That being said, I still love the series, am going to start book 14 once I’m done with this review, and highly recommend it to people who love Greek Mythology and cozy modern fantasy mysteries.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Against Owl Odds by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
When the star card glows in the direction of a vampire, Astra wonders how she’s supposed to stop him from dying—since he’s already dead.

Astra Arden is a witch with a knack for rescuing folks from precarious predicaments. But when the star card flips over for an obnoxiously rude and dedicatedly evil vampire at a local fundraiser, Astra thinks the goddess may be off her divine rocker.

The mandate is complicated further when another vampire is discovered dead outside Sanguine, the local vampire club where the fundraiser was held—which just happens to be owned by Astra’s best friend’s brother, vampire Rex Sullivan.

Astra must unravel the secrets of Central Florida’s vampire population in order to get to the bottom of the murder. Secrets the vampires definitely don’t want brought into the light.

Will Astra be able to solve the case and catch the killer, or will the mystery remain as elusive as a rare blood type?

Review:
Damian is probably the most annoying of any of the star case potential victims. That being said, everyone does a great job supporting each other, especially Astra with Emma and Eddie. I especially loved Astra’s pep talk to him about how sometimes people aren’t what you think you need but you still try to be there for them/with them; something very reminiscent to things she’d had to work out for her own relationship with Jason. The comical bits were still there and awesome as ever. One of my absolute favourite parts in this book was Archie’s little sugar high from eating jelly beans and skittles. All in all, it continued the story and cases of Astra and Emma and I quite like the new angle that seems to be happening in Emma’s life. The twists and turns in this did seem to be easy to figure out if one thought outside the box, but still fantastic nonetheless.

Full disclosure, at this time I’ve already finished the next book in the series, so suffice to say, I’m quite enjoying the series.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯

Review of Magic’s a Hoot by Leanne Leeds

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Synopsis:
When Astra Arden returns to Forkbridge, Florida, she’s not sure what to expect. But her mother, the high priestess of the goddess Athena, is beginning to relax, her three sisters are becoming more at ease with her, and even her divine talking owl, Archie, is settling in.

Things seem to be going well until Gloria Fisher comes in for a reading. Gloria suspects her alcoholic husband, Will, is cheating on her, but Astra soon discovers that the “divine logic” behind the situation is much more complicated.

When a painting Will insured goes missing, Detective Emma Sullivan of the Forkbridge Police Department suspects he might be involved in the scheme. Now, with the help of her divine owl Archie, Astra must find the painting, clear Will’s name, and keep his whole life policy in force.

Can Astra save the day? Or will William Fisher’s accidental death insurance pay out? Find out in the Owl Star Witch Mysteries’ third book, Magic’s a Hoot, a humorous paranormal cozy mystery that will keep you guessing until the final page.

No gore, intimate scenes, or swearing – only a captivating story suitable for adults.

Review:
A great continuation of the Owl Star Witch Mysteries. There is enough interpersonal drama interspersed with work issues that really draws one in. I love how we continuously learn about how things work in the real world accurately, and oftentimes by a character who learned it by another form of media. This particular read was interesting because the cards had a lot to say. I loved the intricacies of multiple plotlines linked together and how Astra slowly unwinds the knot. I quite enjoyed the Astra/Rex issues and banter and was quite pleased to see the end result. In this book you could definitely feel the pressure of the clock ticking and the need to figure things out ASAP. Looking forward to continuing on in the series in the future!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯

Review of Wolf Gone Wild by Juliette Cross

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Synopsis:
What’s the worst thing that can happen to a werewolf?

Unable to shift for three months, Mateo Cruz knows all too well. His wolf has taken up residence in his head, taunting him night and day with vividly violent and carnal thoughts. Convinced he’s cursed, he needs the help of a powerful witch before he literally goes insane.

Evie Savoie has always obeyed the house rules of her coven–no werewolves. They’re known for being moody and volatile. So, when a distempered, dangerous werewolf strolls in the bar and almost strangles one of her late-night customers, she’s ready to bounce him through the door. But the desperation in his eyes when he begs her to help him softens her heart and convinces her to bend the rules.

What Evie doesn’t know is that Mateo’s wolf has a mind of his own. And now that she’s in his sights, he wants only one thing. Her.

Review:
I had some thoughts towards the beginning that this would turn into a “mates” situation. This story was cute, but it wasn’t overly gripping. It was quite slow burn, but every time there was something that would allegedly keep the pair apart everyone was suddenly saying oh but Mateo’s nice and he makes you happy. Labeled as “slow burn”, it’s more that both characters were too indecisive to actually make a move.

Evie is different, and the one thing that I think makes this actually realistic is that she is conscious and a bit worried that she isn’t enough because of that. The characters seem absolutely oblivious to their feelings both of and towards each other despite both being in the 30s. That being said, 99% of the book is actually about Mateo and Evie and their connection, with the pair minimal going towards magic/the hex that is allegedly the entire reason Mateo reached out to Evie to begin with. The spicy scenes need some language revamp with expression such as “little lady” and “lady parts” used by Evie.

I felt there were far too many pop culture references, with huge chunks of the novel being about Evie’s love of Star Wars. Never did get into any interests of Mateo, and spent minimal amount on magic/spells. Did enjoy the characters and the world set in New Orleans, but not enough to delve back/continue with this series.

Star rating: ✯✯

Review of A Killer’s Kiss by Helen Harper

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Synopsis:
A twisted killer is making his mark in London, leaving a trail of blood and devastation in his wake. It’s not only humans who are being targeted. Vampires, werewolves and pixies are in mortal danger too.

I’ve been called in to help with the investigation but I can’t shake the feeling that there’s more to the murders. Someone is playing a very sick game – and it’s up to me to put a stop to it.

Review:
This book was intense. The crimes were quite graphic and the stakes were very high. Despite that, there was also a lot of interpersonal relationships built and played upon, which was very satisfying. I quite enjoyed all of the new characters and I, for one, had only figured out a small bit of what might have been the main mastering of the sick game. It was awesome to see more between our favourites at supe squad, and I do hope that some of the newer introduced police come up again.

My one complaint, which is more just whining, to be fair, is the absolute killer cliffhanger with no idea when another book in this series is going to be released! As always, loved joining in on DC Bellamy’s case and life. Cannot wait to read another book!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Licence to Howl by Helen Harper

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Synopsis:
Devereau Webb is riding high. He’s a powerful werewolf with a killer combination of intelligence, wits and strength and he’s learning more and more about his abilities every day. He isn’t usually the type to take orders, however, and that has to change with his new role as a supernatural spy within the British security services.

Tasked with heading to Rome to infiltrate a mysterious gang with terrorist links, Devereau has to call on all his newfound skills to prevent disaster from happening. That might be prove to be the easy part. He’s also determined to convince a certain sexy vampire that he’s the man for her.

What could possibly go wrong?

Licence To Howl is the second book in the adventurous urban fantasy Wolfbrand series.

The thrilling Wolfbrand books are linked to the Firebrand novels and occur at the same time as the fourth book, Scorched Heart, and onwards. They do not need to be read together to be enjoyed.

Review:
This book was a great mystery with some of our favourite characters. It was awesome seeing how Devereau grows as a person, both in his role as a werewolf as well as how he operates for our fun M15. I quite enjoyed all the twists and turns of this novel, and just how much Devereau doesn’t allow everyone to see of his intelligence and thoughts. I love how he has the need/drive to save everyone, even those that might not have expected/ever asked for his help. Despite what his previous job might have been, and some nefarious ways he’s had, he is a good man/wolf.

I must say, in my opinion, the end of this book was perfection. As always with a good book/series I wish we could continue on and see more, but I do think the very last bit did give a very satisfying ending.

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Brimstone Bound by Helen Harper

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Synopsis:
A werewolf killer. A paranormal murder. How many times can Emma Bellamy cheat death?

I’m one placement away from becoming a fully fledged London detective. It’s bad enough that my last assignment before I qualify is with Supernatural Squad. But that’s nothing compared to what happens next.

Brutally murdered by an unknown assailant, I wake up twelve hours later in the morgue – and I’m very much alive. I don’t know how or why it happened. I don’t know who killed me. All I know is that they might try again.

Werewolves are disappearing right, left and centre.

A mysterious vampire seems intent on following me everywhere I go.

And I have to solve my own vicious killing. Preferably before death comes for me again.

Brimstone Bound is the first book in the thrilling Firebrand urban fantasy series. If you like dark twisty mysteries, smart heroines, and the faintest touch of slow burn romance, then you’ll love Helen Harper’s mystical whodunnit.

Review:
I wasn’t sure how much I’d like this book when I started, as it seemed a bit too tame at the very beginning, but I quickly found myself enamoured with Emma and getting closer to the supernaturals within her world. I quite loved all the characters and the twists and turns of finding out who did such unspeakable acts. I will say I hadn’t much of a notion of whodunnit until it was more or less revealed. Seeing Emma step into herself and trust herself was glorious. I love Harper’s writing style; it very much draws you in and makes you want to know more. Very much looking forward to reading book 2!

Star rating: ✯✯✯✯✯

Review of Dead Ever After by Charlaine Harris

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Dead Ever After
Sookie Stackhouse/True Blood 13
By Charlaine Harris

Star Rating: 
Genre: Mystery, Fantasy

Number of Pages: 368

Date Started: January 24, 2016dead-ever-after
Date Finished: January 25, 2016

Synopsis: (From Amazon)
When a shocking murder rocks Bon Temps, Sookie will learn that what passes for the truth is only a convenient lie. What passes for justice is more spilled blood. And what passes for love is never enough…

Review:
Insert random series of events that rip Eric and Sookie apart. Oh, look, suddenly all the humans care about Sookie and she’s considered human again. While I did enjoy seeing Amelia and the household full of people, I would have liked it better if that was the main plot and shoving Eric on a bus wasn’t the second major decision of the novel.

How did the ending of the book make you feel? I’m glad you asked. I saw from the beginning that Sookie would end with the person she did, but I am more frustrated than anything that, after seeing her run from guy to guy, get swept up in the romance and such, that she decides that she doesn’t want to “go fast” and has to “take it slow” which, from the look of the epilogue, essentially kills all romance whatsoever, really. We heard way too much about “not that anyone asked me to marry them” and “I WANT BABIES” in subtext for the epilogue to be even a touch satisfying.

At least Pam got what she deserved. That’s something.

 

charlaineAuthor Biography: (From Amazon)
For information on Charlaine Harris, please view her Amazon author page here.