REVIEW: Killer Summer by Lynda Curnyn

Title: Killer Summer
Author: Lynda Curnyn
Publisher: Red Dress Ink
Publication Date: June, 2005
Genre: Chick Lit
Rating: 8/10

Description: Three friends. One dead body.
The summer they'll never forget . . .

Sharing a beach house on Fire Island seems like a killer way for best friends Zoe, Sage and Nick to spend summer together. But just as they're dreaming of sunset margaritas and late-night barbecues, the body of their house hostess washes up on the beach. Talk about a buzz kill . . .

Now all Zoe can think about is why the "grieving" husband is planning parties rather than mourning his wife. Nick suddenly has secrets he can't tell a soul. And Sage is trying to score booty as if it's her last summer on earth . . . which it just might be. Because despite the ocean views and endless parties, Zoe, Sage and Nick have stopped wondering if the good times will last and started wondering if they will . . .

My Thoughts: Another very good offering from the now defunct Red Dress Ink line. I feel like I'm beating the dead horse here, but I can't help it. I am such an obsessed chick-lit girl; I collected every release published by Red Dress Ink that I had missed out on after I signed up for home delivery. Every month, I would literally jump up and down and do the happy dance when my Red Dress Ink shipment arrived. I couldn't be happier when some of the titles began to cross into other genres such as mystery and paranormal. Sadly, as with a lot of good things, it came to an end and I was left with a whole bunch of Red Dress Ink books that I have dragged my feet reading because I want them to last.

I chose Killer Summer this year because this has been a killer summer here in the Pit of H.E Double Hockey Sticks where I live. Perhaps a little respite at the beach is in order. I am sure that's all Zoe, Sage and Nick are looking for. Sage's boss has a beach house on Fire Island and the three best friends agree to timeshare space there for the summer, though Zoe's heart really isn't in to it. She gets stuck in the city picking up items for the dinner party being thrown by the house hostess, Maggie. Zoe doesn't arrive with everyone else but instead takes the last ferry out. When Zoe arrives at the house, it's obvious the dinner party has been canceled as evidenced by Maggie's absence from the house. Unfortunately for Zoe, she takes Maggie's pooch for a walk and discovers Maggie's corpse on the beach.

The majority of the book focuses on Zoe's conviction that Maggie's death is no accident, especially since Maggie's husband does not appear to be grieving. It's always the husband that did it, right? He certainly appeared suspicious to me but as the book unfolds, so did a lot of other people. I enjoy it when a mystery has several layers and isn't obvious. Another aspect of this book that I also thoroughly enjoyed is different points of view. Each chapter has a different point of view from Zoe, Sage, Nick or Maggie. Sometimes too many points of view can confuse a story, but I thought it made this one more intriguing.

I also enjoyed the dynamics of all the different relationships. It made for some very interesting characters. I have only read one other book by this author, but I enjoyed this one more and am looking forward to more from this author. Take a break from your killer summer, kick back with something cold and frosty to drink, kick off your shoes and dive into this book. I think you will enjoy it.

REVIEW: A Piece Of My Heart by Kemberlee Shortland

Title: A Piece Of My Heart
Author: Kemberlee Shortland
Publisher: Highland Press
Publication Date: January, 2010
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Rating: 9/10

Description: Kate hadn't been just the girl next door. She'd been Mick's life, and he hers. When an unforeseen force drives them apart they're left with wounds that refuse to heal. Now, ten years on, Mick's father's will should have been straightforward, except his addendum was like ice water in Mick's face. It's essential Mick and Kate work together to save his family's farm. He doesn't count on his new manager being accused of murder, and she doesn't expect a dangerously seductive woman from Dublin claiming Mick is the father of her child. Kate thought she was falling in love with Mick all over again, but this newest revelation is too much for her. She is determined to say goodbye to her childhood sweetheart forever, but Mick has other plans for her future. And none of them involve goodbye.

My Thoughts: One of the reasons I adore Kemberlee Shortland's books is because she is able to create vibrant characters that come across realistically. If you love the characters, then you are completely entranced with everything they say and do. If you hate the characters, you are riveted on what these despicable people are going to do next. If the characters annoy you, as a reader, you may find yourself talking back to the character and telling him what an idiot he is. Yes, I know, they cannot hear me, but this is what happens when I read a Kemberlee Shortland book. I am so pulled into the story, I sometimes feel like I am right there with the characters seeing what they see, hearing what they hear, and feeling what they feel.

So, let me just get this off my chest. Mick was a class A jerk who did not deserve Kate or to benefit from any goodwill or kindness she demonstrated. It took me a very long time to forgive him for being a selfish nitwit who treated Kate and his family very poorly. His complete lack of regard for his family's farm gave me the impression he is spoiled and childish. Here's the interesting thing...as annoyed at Mick as I was, I couldn't stop reading because I had to know what would happen. I kept hoping he would come to his senses and realize what he is missing out on and thankfully he does! Though it still bothered me that he let 10 years go by because of a misunderstanding, Kate never stopped loving him.

Kate was an amazing character. Where Mick was selfish, Kate was selfless in her dedication not only to Mick's parents but to the successful running of their farm. She put her career and love life on hold. She sacrificed her wants and needs to ensure Mick's parents were taken care of like they were her own. Some people would think Kate is your typical doormat but I think if there were people like Kate around, the world would be a much better place.

Happily, Mick redeems himself and does a little growing up to become the man Kate needs. On a side note, I actually felt bad for him when he gets blindsided by some less than pleasant events that have followed him from Dublin.

Another treat for me in this story was reuniting with Kieran and Eilis from Rhythm Of The Heart and catching up on what has been going on in their lives. If you have not read Rhythm Of The Heart, I recommend reading that one before this one so you are not pulled out of the story when Kieran and Eilis make an appearance.

Overall, if you enjoy your books to contain lots of complex characters in complicated relationships and lush Irish settings, I highly recommend A Piece Of My Heart.

REVIEW: Driving Sideways by Jess Riley

Title: Driving Sideways
Author: Jess Riley
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Publication Date: May, 2008
Genre: General Fiction
Rating: 8/10

Description: Leigh Fielding wants a life. Seriously. Having spent the past five years on dialysis, she has one simple wish: to make it to her thirtieth birthday. Now, thanks to the generosity of the late Larry Resnick and his transplanted kidney, it looks like her wish may come true.

With her newfound vitality (and Larry's kidney) in tow, Leigh hits the road for an excursion that will carry her from Wisconsin to California, with a few stops in between: Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, the Rockies, Las Vegas --- and a memorable visit to thank Larry's family for this second chance.

Yet Leigh's itinerary takes a sudden detour when she picks up seventeen year old hitchhiker Denise, a runaway with a bunch of stories and a couple of secrets. Add to the mix a long-lost mother, a loaded gun, an RV full of swingers, and Hall and Oates's Greatest Hits, and Driving Sideways becomes a hilarious and original journey of friendship, hope, and discovery.

My Thoughts: Driving Sideways by Jess Riley is yet another one of those books I acquired on a whim, added it to my "to be read" mountain with every intention of reading it quickly. Instead, it languished for years in the bottomless pit of my reading pile. With Driving Sideways, new to me author Jess Riley introduces us to Leigh Fielding, a dialysis patient who has recently received a kidney transplant and thereby a new lease on life.

I know it doesn't sound very appealing on the surface, but where this story really pulled me in and hooked me is when Leigh decides to hit the road, literally, on a road trip to visit her best friend, meet the kidney donor's family to thank them for the kidney and finally to track down the mother who abandoned Leigh and her brother when they were children.

Along the way, Leigh meets a teenage hitchhiker named Denise, who isn't all she seems but not completely in a bad way. The story is rich in pop culture references that gave me the real sense of being in the car with Leigh and Denise.

The story moved at a good pace, kept me plugged in and interested in what was going on and what was going to happen next. The characters were easy to get to know and felt realistic for their surroundings and place in the story. Don't make the same mistake I did. Get in the car and go on a road trip of your own to the bookstore to get this book. Every journey begins with the first step and I am sure this is one ride you will thoroughly enjoy.

REVIEW: Reality Chick by Lauren Barnholdt

Title: Reality Chick
Author: Lauren Barnholdt
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication Date: June, 2006
Genre: Teen Chick-Lit
Rating: 7/10

Description: All-hour study fests . . . all-night parties . . .

Going away to college means total independence and freedom. Unless of course your freshman year is taped and televised for all the world to watch. On uncensored cable.

Sweet and normal Ally Cavanaugh is one of five freshpeople shacking up on In the House, a reality show filmed on her college campus. (As if school isn't panic-inducing enough!) The cameras stalk her like paparazzi, but they also capture the fun that is new friends, old crushes, and learning to live on your own. Sure, the camera adds ten pounds, but with the freshman fifteen a given anyway, who cares? Ally's got bigger issues -- like how her long-distance bf can watch her loopy late-night "episode" with a certain housemate. . . .

Freshman year on film.

It's outrageous.

It's juicy.

And like all good reality TV, it's impossible to turn off.

My Thoughts: Freshman year at college is hard. Trying to adjust to the new freedom and responsibilities of managing oneself while living on your own for the first time in your life is a big deal. Making a long distance relationship with your boyfriend of two years work now that he's in college down in Florida carries a lot of stress. Apparently, our protagonist, Ally Cavanaugh, laughs in the face of stress and auditions for and is chosen to appear on a reality TV show with four other freshmen.

Though the logic of this character's decision to do this seems vividly absent, I found it impossible to look away. As with most sordid and uncensored reality shows on the air these days, I find it difficult to stop watching. Why are we drawn to scenarios where a group of strangers are thrown together in a small, confined space and are manipulated so that their behavior and reactions are then recorded for the rest of us to view, comment and speculate on?

It's hard to not like Ally. I felt a lot of empathy for her as she struggles to adjust to college, picking a major, missing her boyfriend and developing friendships with her housemates all the while a cameraman follows her all over the house and campus recording every facial expression, emotion, conversation and act, some of which Ally would rather forget. Personally, being recorded in the bathroom is pushing it, but again, reality TV fans want it realistic and if you knew your words and actions were being recorded, how realistic would it be?

Reality Chick was a fast, enjoyable read that I recommend if you like living vicariously through others. This book was given a makeover and republished in 2010 under the new title, Watch Me.

I personally like the new cover better.

New Additions To The TBR Pile In July

July saw the arrival of several new additions to the monstrous to be read pile. Yes, I am a book hoarder and am suffering happily with my illness. :o)

Chaos In Death by J.D. Robb

Description: Eve Dallas is the tough lieutenant hot on his trail, but this is unlike any case she’s ever been assigned - or any killer she’s ever pursued. A police sketch based on eye-witness testimony reveals the killer has green skin, swollen red eyes, goblin ears, and a dislocated jaw-structure that defies the human form. Is it a mask? Is it make-up? Or is the explanation more sinister?

Dallas faces off against multiple suspects - all of them students of medicine capable of precisely slicing the ears, noses, and eyes of the three victims. But who had the motive? More importantly, what kind of rogue science are these healers practicing?

Fatal Fortune by Elizabeth Delisi

Description: No one in Cheyenne, ND believes in Lottie Baldwin's psychic abilities; especially not Harlan Erikson, Lottie's boyfriend, and sergeant in the Sheriff's Office. When a friend's husband disappears, Lottie can't leave it to Harlan. Armed with her courage and her tarot cards, she tries to solve the mystery herself, regardless of who attempts to stop her: Harlan, her friend -- or the criminal.

Rhythm Of My Heart by Kemberlee Shortland

Description: Artist Representative, Eilis Kennedy, gave up a singing career so that other women could have a fair chance at having their music heard. Having suffered rejection from callous men in the industry, she thought she would get away from ‘casting couch’ mentality. But when she finds herself in the office of Fergus Manley, all bets are off. Disgusted by his continual come-ons and lewd invitations, Eilis is looking for ‘the one’ who will take her career to the next level, getting out from under Fergus’s controlling thumb.

Aspiring blues guitarist, Kieran Vaughan, is looking for his big break. But after suffering near bankruptcy at the hands of an unscrupulous business partner, Kieran is left picking up the pieces. He’s unsure if the debts will ever be paid or if he’ll ever have a chance to do something with his music. At his whit’s end, he’s about ready to throw in the towel and find a full-time job with real hours.

When Eilis discovers Kieran playing in a seedy pub in Dublin’s Northside, she knows he’s the one rare talent she’s been searching for. With her know-how and his talent, Eilis will finally get everything she’s been waiting for. Neither of them count on the powerful attraction from first meeting. Eilis is so rocked by Keiran’s forthright words that it sends her running. Kieran risks being arrested as he chases Eilis across Ireland.

Seeing what’s happening between Eilis and Kieran, anger wells inside Fergus and he steps up his pursuit of Eilis. Refusing to let Kieran get in his way, Fergus vows to add Eilis’s notch to his bedpost, whatever it takes.

Will Kieran be able to protect her?

Some Girls Bite by Chloe Neill

Description: First in a brand new series about a Chicago graduate student's introduction into a society of vampires. — Sure, the life of a graduate student wasn't exactly glamorous, but it was Merit's. She was doing fine until a rogue vampire attacked her. But he only got a sip before he was scared away by another bloodsucker -- and this one decided the best way to save her life was to make her the walking undead.

Turns out her savior was the master vampire of Cadogan House. Now she's traded sweating over her thesis for learning to fit in at a Hyde Park mansion full of vamps loyal to Ethan "Lord o' the Manor" Sullivan. Of course, as a tall, green-eyed, four-hundred- year-old vampire, he has centuries' worth of charm, but unfortunately he expects her gratitude -- and servitude. But an inconvenient sunlight allergy and Ethan's attitude are the least of her concerns. Someone's still out to get her. Her initiation into Chicago's nightlife may be the first skirmish in a war -- and there will be blood.

The Art Of Racing In The Rain by Garth Stein

Description: Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul (and an obsession with opposable thumbs), he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn't simply about going fast. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life's ordeals.

On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family, holding in his heart the dream that Denny will become a racing champion with Zoë at his side.

A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope, The Art of Racing in the Rain is a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life...as only a dog could tell it.

The Rock Star In Seat 3A by Jill Kargman

Description: It's Hazel's thirtieth birthday and she has everything she's ever wanted: a kickass job, a dream apartment in New York City, and the perfect boyfriend -- who's just days away from proposing. Hazel thinks she's happy but isn't quite ready to settle down. So when her most far-fetched fantasy enters the realm of the possible, shouldn't she drop everything to see it through?

The morning after her birthday, Hazel boards a flight to L.A. only to get the surprise of her life. When she's bumped up to first class, extra legroom and free drinks are absolutely the last things on her mind when she catches sight of her seatmate: her all-time biggest celebrity crush, rock star Finn Schiller! Only the night before she'd confessed her infatuation with the gorgeous musician, and her boyfriend joked that she had a free pass if she ever met him. Hazel can't believe fate has actually thrown them together.

Even more unbelievable is that during the flight they genuinely connect. Finn likes her uncensored cursing and wicked sense of humor, and that she's unlike all of his groupies; Hazel likes his killer looks, ripped physique, and soulful music. But what started as a fantasy quickly becomes a real attraction, and after a dream date and taste of the rock-star life with Finn in L.A., Hazel is forced to examine the track her life is on. Indulging in a passionate affair with a rock star seems crazy -- but could she ever forgive herself if she walked away from her wildest dream coming true? And is her wildest dream the stuff that happiness is made of?

A lively novel about a down-to-earth New York City girl who suddenly finds herself in a rock 'n' roll Cinderella fantasy, The Rock Star in Seat 3A is seasoned with Jill Kargman's signature wit and hilarious dialogue. This is a fairy-tale romance with a twist.

REVIEW: Rhythm Of My Heart by Kemberlee Shortland

Title: Rhythm Of My Heart
Author: Kemberlee Shortland
Publisher: Tirgearr Publishing
Publication Date: July, 2012
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Rating: 9/10

Description: Artist Representative, Eilis Kennedy, gave up a singing career so that other women could have a fair chance at having their music heard. Having suffered rejection from callous men in the industry, she thought she would get away from ‘casting couch’ mentality. But when she finds herself in the office of Fergus Manley, all bets are off. Disgusted by his continual come-ons and lewd invitations, Eilis is looking for ‘the one’ who will take her career to the next level, getting out from under Fergus’s controlling thumb.

Aspiring blues guitarist, Kieran Vaughan, is looking for his big break. But after suffering near bankruptcy at the hands of an unscrupulous business partner, Kieran is left picking up the pieces. He’s unsure if the debts will ever be paid or if he’ll ever have a chance to do something with his music. At his whit’s end, he’s about ready to throw in the towel and find a full-time job with real hours.

When Eilis discovers Kieran playing in a seedy pub in Dublin’s Northside, she knows he’s the one rare talent she’s been searching for. With her know-how and his talent, Eilis will finally get everything she’s been waiting for. Neither of them count on the powerful attraction from first meeting. Eilis is so rocked by Keiran’s forthright words that it sends her running. Kieran risks being arrested as he chases Eilis across Ireland.

Seeing what’s happening between Eilis and Kieran, anger wells inside Fergus and he steps up his pursuit of Eilis. Refusing to let Kieran get in his way, Fergus vows to add Eilis’s notch to his bedpost, whatever it takes.

Will Kieran be able to protect her?

My Thoughts: First of all, take a look at the cover of this book. I don’t know what the Irish word for “WOW” is but that was my reaction when I saw it. If a guilty pleasure read is what you are looking for, then you don’t need to look much further once you see the eye candy on this cover. Women will want a Kieran Vaughan of their own. What’s not to love, ladies? He’s hot, hot, hot, he sings and plays blues guitar, he loves his little sister, he’s nice, he worships the ground Eilis walks on (lucky wench), he rides a Harley, he cooks (fanning face) and last but not least, he’s Irish so he’s got the accent going on and you know that’s going to be music to the ears. If I didn’t already have a Scottish guy, then an Irish guy would be high up on the list. With Kieran Vaughan, Kemberlee Shortland has created a character that makes a lasting impression that remains long after the book is done.

Upon meeting Eilis Kennedy for the first time, my first impression of her is that she is extremely critical of herself and has a very poor sense of worth. Most women can certainly relate to Eilis. She has gotten knocked down quite a bit in love and life, unfortunately, and isn’t very trusting with her heart. She honestly doesn’t see what Kieran sees when she looks in the mirror. She gave up her own career as a singer so she could find new talent and represent them towards successful careers of their own. Regrettably, the “casting couch” scenario still pursues her, only now, her boss Fergus is the one she needs to be cautious around. I would have liked to see her get agitated and fight back, especially where Fergus is concerned. She does tell him off but I would have enjoyed seeing her mop the floor with his behind.

For me, Kieran and Eilis are truly two halves of one whole. Upon meeting, the connection they feel is strong and almost psychic. They know when the other is near, hurt or frightened, the way identical twins are connected. Unfortunately they are human and the reader is made to wait longer for them to get together because they both experience “the big misunderstanding” more than once. I found this to be extremely frustrating because it’s so obvious to me they are meant to be together but they both have a lot of pride and jump to conclusions about each other instead of just talking. Happily, years do not go by before they work it out, as is the case in a lot of books.

Ms. Shortland writes amazing characters that come to life and leap off the page. Even the villain, Fergus, as nasty and disgusting as he was, is very realistic. I got a very good sense of what Eilis felt having him around. Ms. Shortland takes it one step further and makes Fergus truly vile, which gives the story some very suspenseful moments. The story moves at a good pace, even with the big misunderstandings and delivers some exciting and heart-racing moments towards the end. I can’t spoil the ending for you, so you are just going to have to read this book to find out what I am talking about. I’m sure you will agree that Rhythm of My Heart is magical.

REVIEW: Chaos In Death by J.D. Robb

Title: Chaos In Death (In Death #33.5)
Author: J.D. Robb
Publisher: Jove
Publication Date: September, 2011
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Rating: 10/10

Description: Eve Dallas is the tough lieutenant hot on his trail, but this is unlike any case she’s ever been assigned - or any killer she’s ever pursued. A police sketch based on eye-witness testimony reveals the killer has green skin, swollen red eyes, goblin ears, and a dislocated jaw-structure that defies the human form. Is it a mask? Is it make-up? Or is the explanation more sinister?

Dallas faces off against multiple suspects - all of them students of medicine capable of precisely slicing the ears, noses, and eyes of the three victims. But who had the motive? More importantly, what kind of rogue science are these healers practicing?

My Thoughts:Chaos In Death is one of the short stories offered in The Unquiet anthology and with the other short stories in this series, I only read the Eve Dallas story. Chaos finds Eve and the gang on the trail of a sadistic killer who leaves notes at the scene of his crimes signed as Dr. Chaos. Witnesses who have seen him report seeing a monster, distorted green skinned face and fangs. He is also observed to be laughing and dancing after the killings. The victims are mutilated with the precision like skill of a surgeon or someone who has medical training. Eve has never faced someone quite like Dr. Chaos before and doesn’t know who or even what Dr. Chaos really is.

I finished Chaos in Death with a mixture of anticipation and sadness. Anticipation because I am always anticipating what the next book will bring. But now, I am experiencing some sadness because I am now only one book away from completing the series. This may not mean much to a lot of people but it does to me. I resisted starting this series for a very long time and it’s taken me over ten years to get to this point. What can I say…I really wanted to savor this series. I resisted this series for so long because I honestly thought I would not enjoy a series set in the future. Never had any trouble reading and loving books set in the past, but for some reason, a story set in the future held no appeal for me. On one hand, I never thought I would arrive at this moment so quickly, but on the other hand, Chaos in Death is #33.5 in the series and as I have already mentioned, it’s taken me over ten years to get to this point so it hasn’t been that fast, come to think of it. It feels like it has though. Oh, and just to clarify; saying I’m completing the series isn’t really accurate. The series is still ongoing. The 35th book in this series, Delusion in Death, will be available in September, 2012. It just feels like it’s over because now I will no longer have a handful of Eve Dallas titles at the ready to tide me over. I will become just like everyone else suffering in their anticipation waiting for the next new release.

As always, Eve is in top form on this case, which takes on a horrific Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde twist when the killer’s identity is revealed. It’s probably one of the reasons I enjoy this series so much. J.D. Robb is fearless and shows no hesitation in stretching the limits of her imagination to create the evil and depraved filth that ultimately she will throw into Eve’s path. Fortunately, Eve isn’t left on her own to solve the riddle with each case. She has surrounded herself with a crack-shot team of professionals who know their stuff and get the job done quickly and efficiently, making the streets of a not so distant future New York City safe…at least for the moment.

Thank you, J.D. Robb for a great ten years of reading. It’s been a great ride and I am eagerly anticipating more.

REVIEW: Girl's Guide To Witchcraft by Mindy Klasky

Title: Girl’s Guide To Witchcraft (Jane Madison #1)
Author: Mindy Klasky
Publisher: Red Dress Ink
Publication Date: October, 2006
Genre: Chick-Lit
Rating: 7/10

Description: Which is more unlikely?

Meeting a single, straight, reasonably attractive, willing-to-commit man?

Or discovering a secret cache of magic books?

For good girl Jane Madison, neither has a shot in hell of coming true--until the day she finds a hidden room....

Now she's done a bit of experimenting and found a spell that makes her irresistible to men--even those who have previously ignored her. And another that turns a cat into her witch's familiar (a snarky, critical, self-absorbed man--pretty much a typical male). Though her impulsive acts of magic have brought a warder (sexy, grouchy, elusive and determined to stop her from using magic) down on her, Jane's not willing to let go of this fantastic new life.

Though she wonders about having things that aren't "real," she's having too much fun to stop. After all, no one ever said being a witch was easy...

My Thoughts: One of the things I loved about Harlequin’s Red Dress Ink line was the diversity. Within the chick-lit genre, Red Dress Ink offered a nice variety in the Red Dress offerings. Some of them are straight chick-lit, some are suspense or mystery, and some, such as Girl’s Guide to Witchcraft, has a paranormal twist. Combining two of my favorite genres, chick-lit and paranormal romance is brilliant. It’s such a shame that there are no longer any new Red Dress Ink releases. Girl’s Guide to Witchcraft is the first book in the Jane Madison trilogy about a librarian who learns she is also a witch.

Jane Madison is a reference librarian at a small library in Washington, D.C. After her boss informs her that the library is cutting her salary by 25%, Jane is offered free room and board in the cottage behind the library. Jane accepts (what choice does she have?) and moves into the cottage. After several hours of intensive scrubbing and scouring, Jane begins to feel the charm of the cottage. Jane inadvertently finds a key that opens the door to the basement and she discovers a collection of antique books. Jane is thrilled and when she reads from one of the books, a statue of a cat turns into a man named Neko, who informs Jane she is a witch and he is her familiar.

From there I was hooked. I had to know what would happen. Mixed into the yoga sessions with her best friend, Melissa, which Jane hates, the mojito therapy sessions with Melissa and Neko that I would personally love to participate in and the gorgeous warder, David, who is assigned to give Jane witchcraft lessons are several side stories. Jane is infatuated with a college professor who spends a lot of time in the library. Jane learns that the mother she thought was dead is actually alive and abandoned Jane as a baby and now wants to come back into her life. Jane is dedicated to her job and works hard trying to obtain funding for the library. There is really so much going on that one book just can’t cover it all.

I really liked the characters. Jane is self-conscious and comes across as a little scatterbrained and awkward, which I felt only added to her charm. Melissa is the best friend we would all love to have. She accepts Jane for who she is, cheers her on when things are going well and is ready to pick her up with mojito therapy when things are not. I loved Neko. As Jane’s familiar, he is there to assist her with all things witchy but I loved that he has such a vibrant personality on his own. He also retains his feline tendencies, which causes Jane to fear for the safety of her pet fish. As her warder, David is more than just Jane’s witchcraft mentor and teacher. There’s an attraction between Jane and David that I hope will be explored in more detail in the remaining books.

Overall, a good start to a trilogy. I look forward to reconnecting with Jane and her friends in the next book, Sorcery and the Single Girl.

REVIEW: The Art Of Racing In The Rain by Garth Stein

Title: The Art Of Racing In The Rain
Author: Garth Stein
Publisher: Harper Collins
Publication Date: June, 2009
Genre: General Fiction
Rating: 10/10

Description: Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul (and an obsession with opposable thumbs), he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver. Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing, isn't simply about going fast. Using the techniques needed on the race track, one can successfully navigate all of life's ordeals.

On the eve of his death, Enzo takes stock of his life, recalling all that he and his family have been through. In the end, despite what he sees as his own limitations, Enzo comes through heroically to preserve the Swift family, holding in his heart the dream that Denny will become a racing champion with Zoë at his side.

A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope, The Art of Racing in the Rain is a beautifully crafted and captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life...as only a dog could tell it.

My Thoughts: The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein was recommended to me by a very good friend and is nothing at all like the books I normally read. For starters, the narrator of the book is a dog named Enzo and the story is told entirely from his perspective. It’s given me a whole new insight on animals and what they are really thinking and how they feel and the fact that they understand so much more than we give them credit for.

The story begins on the eve of Enzo’s death. He’s an old dog, you see, and as we all have done and will do, he’s reflecting back on his life with his master, Denny, a race car driver and his family. Enzo’s view of the world is very funny and thought provoking. Enzo shares with us his love of television and watching car races as well as a documentary that people in Mongolia believe when a dog passes from this life, he will be reincarnated as a human. Enzo is very clear that his ultimate dream is to come back as a man, find Denny and shake his hand.

Through Enzo’s eyes, we are introduced to Denny’s future wife, Eve and meet their daughter Zoe. With Enzo’s help, I learned more about racing cars than I ever did. Most importantly, we learn from Enzo exactly how loyal a dog is to his pack master and the love he feels for his entire pack. When Denny faces the ultimate adversity, we see it through Enzo’s eyes and feel his helplessness that he can’t fix it. You can’t help but love Enzo. While reading this book, I wished he were with me several times so I could hug him.

This book will make you smile, laugh and cry. This book will make you angry (I absolutely hated the twins and if I had been Enzo, I would have bit them). For me, only a book that truly speaks to my heart is capable of bringing out so many emotions when I read it and The Art of Racing in the Rain did that and more. Get this book, but don’t just read it…savor it. Life is short and Enzo showed me how important it is to make every moment count.

REVIEW: Fatal Fortune by Elizabeth Delisi

Title: Fatal Fortune (Lottie Baldwin #1)
Author: Elizabeth Delisi
Publisher: Tirgearr Publishing
Publication Date: June, 2012
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Rating: 5/10

Description: No one in Cheyenne, ND believes in Lottie Baldwin's psychic abilities; especially not Harlan Erikson, Lottie's boyfriend, and sergeant in the Sheriff's Office. When a friend's husband disappears, Lottie can't leave it to Harlan. Armed with her courage and her tarot cards, she tries to solve the mystery herself, regardless of who attempts to stop her: Harlan, her friend -- or the criminal.

My Thoughts: Fatal Fortune by new to me author, Elizabeth Delisi, is marketed as the first in a series. This book was just O.K. for me. I didn’t hate it but I didn’t love it. While reading, I felt myself being pulled out of the story due to the repeated references of past events. It made me feel like I was missing the beginning of the story and because of that I didn’t feel connected to the characters as much as I would have liked.

I did like Lottie and Harlan. Their relationship is comfortable and you can tell they have been together for a while. They are so different from one another, but fit together perfectly, like peanut butter and jelly. They are also both equally stubborn people, though as a cop, I expect Harlan to be. A pet peeve for me in any mystery or thriller or suspense is when characters that are not trained as investigators, go off and investigate on their own. Sometimes, they invite more trouble and danger to themselves, than if they had just stayed out of it, especially when they aren’t that great at it. Lottie narrowly misses becoming another victim because she doesn’t stay out of it. I get she wants to help her friend and in her place, most of us would do the same thing, but were it not for Harlan’s timely appearance, Lottie would be dead.

The mystery was decent and held a few surprises for me. I was way off on my pick for the villain, but there were many possible candidates to choose from, which I like. A mark of a good mystery is when the reader is not able to figure out the entire plot in the first chapter. It took me most of the book and I was surprised, not only at who it was, but why.

Avid mystery fans will enjoy the mystery, but overall, this book is a rocky start to a series that hopefully will develop into something more with the next book.

Where Am I Reading?

Thanks to some researching and some "creative borrowing" I have created a map at Google to track my reading destinations for 2012. As I read a book, I will pin the location on the map and as part of my year end review, I will discuss the breakdown of my reading travels to see where I traveled...

Feel free to check it out and let me know what you think!  :o)

 
View Sherri's 2012 Reading Destinations in a larger map

REVIEW: New York To Dallas by J.D. Robb

Title: New York To Dallas (In Death, #33)
Author: J.D. Robb
Publisher: Putnam
Publication Date: September, 2011
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Rating: 10/10

Description: The new novel from the #1 New York Times-bestselling author, which takes readers deeper into the mind of Eve Dallas than ever before.

The number-one New York Times-bestselling author J. D. Robb presents an intense and terrifying new case for New York homicide cop Eve Dallas, one that will take her all the way to the city that gave her her name-and plunge her into the nightmares of her childhood.

When a monster named Isaac McQueen-taken down by Eve back in her uniform days-escapes from Rikers, he has two things in mind. One is to pick up where he left off, abducting young victims and leaving them scarred in both mind and body. The other is to get revenge on the woman who stopped him all those years ago.

My Thoughts: A long time ago, long before any of us knew who Eve Dallas was, she was a rookie patrol officer who inadvertently stumbled across Isaac McQueen's path and subsequently put him away for abducting and raping dozens of little girls. Since then, Eve has never given him a second thought until he escapes and begins a cat and mouse game with Eve, designed to exact revenge on her for the twelve years he spent incarcerated. Unfortunately for Eve, she will have to go to Dallas, TX not only to face Isaac, but to face the demons of her past as well.

Before I even began this story, I knew it was going to be an emotionally draining one for me to witness Eve battling her demons. Sadly, but as usual, Roarke takes the brunt of her aggression and anger and is able to handle it better than anyone else could. I don't know how he does it, to be honest. Sometimes I wonder if Eve is deliberately trying to push him away. Even knowing he is the other half of her soul, she resists as if she is punishing herself for finding even a smidgen of happiness.

Don't get me wrong...I love Eve Dallas and there's so much more to her than what she endured as a child that makes her the top-notch character she is. However, I am hoping very hard with fingers and toes crossed that finally, with this book, she and the rest of us will get some closure so she and Roarke can move forward with their future.

So now we find Eve and Roarke in Dallas, at Isaac's insistence, trying to stop him before more innocent lives are destroyed. Choosing Dallas was no accident, however. He knows about Eve's past and has orchestrated, in his mind anyway, the perfect plan to come out on top and Eve paying the ultimate price.

Peabody and the gang are all in the background in this book. They stay back in New York, working the case from there. I think I was as hurt and despondent over Peabody staying in New York as she was. I missed their banter and Eve tends to take herself to total exhaustion working a case that I think leaving Peabody behind was a big mistake. Roarke brings Mira out to run interference, and though it turns out very well, it was a big risk that could have damaged their relationship. Eve does not like to ask for help and she would never admit to being weak, hurt or in need and usually lashes out at the people closest to her, unfortunately for them. I can only hope that Roarke sees through her facade and continues to push back, as that seems to be the only way of getting through to her sometimes.

Without spoiling any of the book, I will say that Eve does get some closure on her past, but to what extent it helps her I cannot say for sure. This was not my favorite in the series, but I'm hoping it will be the mark of a major turning point for Eve and Roarke, to finally shed the past and embrace the future.

New Additions To The TBR Pile in June

June saw the arrival of another Eve Dallas book.  I am shocked that I am nearly caught up on this series.  The other new arrival is a new to me author, whose book I was asked to review.  I love the cover.  It's very intriguing and I'm hoping the story is as well.

New York to Dallas by J.D. Robb

Description: It was one of Eve Dallas's earliest takedowns, back in her uniform days. A monster named Isaac McQueen had been abducting young victims and leaving them scarred in both mind and body. Thanks to Eve, he wound up where he belonged, removed from civilized society in Rikers. But he's not behind bars anymore.

After his escape, McQueen has two things in mind. One is to take up where he left off, preying on the young and innocent, with the help of a female partner all too willing to be manipulated and to aid and abet his crimes. His other goal: to get revenge on the woman who stopped him all those years ago, now a high-profile lieutenant in the NYPSD and married to one of the city's richest men.

Commanding Eve's attention with a chilling and brazen crime, McQueen sets off the chase forcing Eve down a road marked with blood and tears, a road that eventually leads southwest to Dallas, Texas, the home Eve fled long ago. And each new twist brings her closer to the harrowing memory of when she wasn't a hardened detective but a vulnerable girl just like McQueen's innocent prey. As her husband, Roarke, tries to rescue her from the nightmares that claw at her mind, and her partner, Peabody, doggedly works to support her, Eve must confront and call upon the darkest parts of her own soul in order to survive.

Promise Me Eternity by Ian Fox

Description: Dr. Simon Patterson is a successful and well-respected neurosurgeon at Central Hospital in the town of Medford. Married, though without children, he keeps himself so busy that one day is not much different from another. Until, that is, he saves the life of the powerful mobster Carlo Vucci.

At a dinner in honor of Dr. Patterson, Carlo Vucci introduces him to his alluring wife Christine. Simon is entranced by her beauty.

Three weeks later, Christine shows up at the hospital, complaining of terrible headaches. Dr. Patterson offers to help her, but Christine did not come to see him just because of her headaches. A series of shocking events follow that turn Dr. Patterson’s life into a nightmare. Among other things, he finds himself in court being accused of murder in the first degree …

REVIEW: How Nancy Drew Saved My Life by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Title: How Nancy Drew Saved My Life
Author: Lauren Baratz-Logsted
Publisher: Red Dress Ink
Publication Date: September, 2006
Genre: Chick-Lit
Rating: 5/10

Description: Broken, smashed and stomped in the mud. That's how Charlotte Bell's heart ended up the last time she let her emotions heat up on a nanny assignment. So taking a new position in frigid Iceland, working for Ambassador Edgar Rawlings, might be just what Charlotte needs in order to heal up--and chill out.

This time, she's determined to be intrepid and courageous. She's even read all fifty-six original Nancy Drew books in preparation. Unfortunately, she's neglected to find out anything about Iceland or to look into the background of her oddly compelling employer.

When Charlotte stumbles onto the trail of a mystery that only she can solve, she'll need every shred of Nancy's wisdom to keep her life--and her heart--safe

My Thoughts: One of the many joys of reading is the travel destinations. For the first time ever, I got to travel to Iceland with Charlotte Bell when she accepts a nanny position with the U.S. Ambassador. Initially, this story is very vague where Charlotte is concerned. Though Charlotte was a child celebrity, she had a less than happy childhood, growing up in her Aunt’s home. She never feeling accepted and is someone who is looking for love and acceptance, usually in the wrong place. Unfortunately, she wears her heart on her sleeve and falls for the wrong guy. When she returns home after a very painful breakup, she is left to ponder her life and the choices she makes. Why can’t her life run smoothly? She begins to think she needs to be more like Nancy Drew, who never has a hair out of place and always find the answers. Charlotte even purchases every book in the Nancy Drew series to try to figure out what she needs to do.

Charlotte accepts a nanny position with the U.S. Ambassador to Iceland and though she’s pretty confident she knows how Nancy Drew will respond in any given situation, Charlotte has no clue about the country she will be living in, the language or the people she will be interacting with. I found this part amusing.

Upon first meeting him, I was less than impressed with Charlotte’s employer, Edgar Rawlings. Maybe it’s the fact he’s referred to as “The Master” that put me off. I did enjoy the scene when they first meet only because they don’t know who each other is. My favorite character is Annette. She comes across much wiser than her years and isn’t, at all, a brat. My biggest annoyance with this book is that Charlotte has fallen for and slept with, not one, but TWO of her employers! Charlotte has some serious Daddy issues. Charlotte’s mother died in childbirth and her father pretty much abandoned her in a loveless home while he took off to Africa to work. Nobody’s life is perfect, but why does she have to sleep with her boss?

Once I could get past the whole integrity flaw of sleeping with her boss, I was able to enjoy the story, for the most part. Charlotte learning how to drive was amusing. In spite of her bad decisions with her love life, Charlotte is a survivor and shows a lot of determination and some fearless courage when she has to.

The story ends with a lot of questions for me. I wish there had been more closure as to what happens with Charlotte, Edgar and Annette. If you are looking for some light summer reading and sleeping with your employers do not bother you, you could give this one a try. If you are wondering what Nancy Drew would do, check out her books instead.

REVIEW: Explosive Eighteen by Janet Evanovich

Title: Explosive Eighteen (Stephanie Plum, #18)
Author: Janet Evanovich
Publisher: Random House
Publication Date: November, 2011
Genre: Contemporary Myster, Mystery
Rating: 8/10

Description: Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum’s life is set to blow sky high when international murder hits dangerously close to home, in this dynamite novel by Janet Evanovich.

Before Stephanie can even step foot off Flight 127 from Hawaii to Newark, she’s knee deep in trouble. Her dream vacation turned into a nightmare, she’s flying back to New Jersey solo, and someone who sounds like Sasquatch is snoring in row 22. Worse still, her seatmate never returned to the plane after the L.A. layover. Now he’s dead, in a garbage can, waiting for curbside pickup. His killer could be anyone. The FBI, the fake FBI, and guns-for-hire are all looking for a photograph the dead man was supposed to be carrying.

Only one other person has seen the missing photograph—Stephanie Plum. Now she’s the target, and she doesn’t intend to end up in a garbage can. With the help of an FBI sketch artist Stephanie re-creates the person in the photo. Unfortunately the first sketch turns out to look like Tom Cruise, and the second sketch like Ashton Kutcher. Until Stephanie can improve her descriptive skills, she’ll need to watch her back.

Over at the Bail Bonds Agency it’s business as usual—until the bonds bus serving as Vinnie’s temporary HQ goes up in smoke, Stephanie’s wheelman, Lula, falls in love with their “largest” FTA yet, lifetime arch nemesis Joyce Barnhardt moves into Stephanie’s apartment, and everyone wants to know what happened in Hawaii?!

Morelli, Trenton’s hottest cop, isn’t talking about Hawaii. Ranger, the man of mystery, isn’t talking about Hawaii. And all Stephanie is willing to say about her Hawaiian vacation is . . . It’s complicated.

My Thoughts: The 18th installment of the Stephanie Plum series picks up not long after 17 ends. Stephanie comes back from Hawaii with a tan line on her ring finger, where an obvious ring was being worn for some time. When questioned about it repeatedly by everyone, Stephanie keeps it under wraps by stating “it’s complicated.”

Interestingly enough, the ring or lack thereof and possible mysterious marriage isn’t the central plot of the story. Neither is the fact that Joe and Ranger both went to Hawaii and Stephanie came home after they punched each other out. About halfway into the book, Stephanie gives a very watered down explanation about what happened, but there should have been more. I wanted more…especially where Ranger is concerned, but there wasn’t, much to my disappointment and frustration. As more of this story opens up and unfolds, the more I am destined to be frustrated as I am sure Stephanie is frustrated. Even still, Stephanie has the best of both worlds at her feet. Two hot, hunky men who think she’s the bee’s knees isn’t really a problem and I know at some point she will eventually choose one of them (maybe), but until then I am enjoying watching her be frustrated.

The arrival of Joyce Barnhardt at Stephanie’s door is one aspect of this story that should have annoyed me, but didn’t. Joyce is Stephanie’s biggest nemesis, but I never in a million years would have expected Stephanie to allow Joyce to move in! Although, Joyce doesn’t really give Stephanie much choice in the matter as she is one of Stephanie’s FTA’s and promises to turn herself into Stephanie in exchange for Stephanie’s help.

I’ve come to expect the wacky and zany with this series and that’s exactly what Explosive Eighteen delivers. I have learned that I can put up with a lot of nuttiness for my Ranger fix. I just wish there was more Ranger appearances. The series seems to focus on Joe getting face time with Stephanie and though that’s my guess as to who she will end up being with, I am just not ready for Stephanie to make that choice yet.

REVIEW: Just Murdered by Elaine Viets

Title: Just Murdered (A Dead-End Job Mystery #4)
Author: Elaine Viets
Publisher: Signet
Publication Date: May, 2005
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Rating: 5/10

Description: When Helen Hawthorne takes a job at upscale Millicent's Bridal Salon, she expects to see some sentimental tears as brides pick out their gowns. But when a rich, obnoxious mother-of-the-bride named Kiki is killed, it seems most of the tears are fake. When Helen's fingerprints are found on the murder weapon---a wedding dress---she must solve the case to prove her innocence.

Is the murderer Kiki's money strapped ex-husband? The bride, who finally got tired of letting Mom run the show? Or one of the boy toys promised a million dollars in the will? Helen better find out quick---and make sure Kiki's funeral outfit doesn't clash with the groom's mother's...

My Thoughts: Just Murdered finds Helen now working at a bridal boutique and neck deep in all the drama that the wedding dress selection entails. While reading this, I found myself visualizing a television program I have enjoyed watching called “Say Yes to the Dress.” Several times on this show, the bride’s mother (usually) moves Heaven and Earth to try to upstage the bride. A lot of fighting and arguments ensue, sometimes shouting matches even, and always lots of tears. The same can be said of this book. But unlike the TV show, the mother of the bride is murdered and the murder weapon is none other than a bridal gown!

Sadly, out of all the tears that are shed, none are for the victim. I have to say, I wasn’t crying over her demise either. The victim is a rich, arrogant tramp who makes out with her chauffeur on the street in plain sight of anyone walking by. She’s condescending to Helen and her employer, Millicent. She’s rude to just about everyone. She’s cold and cruel to her daughter. She’s vindictive to her ex-husband. Personally, I expected a horde of people lining up to kill this woman. Unfortunately for Helen, the police seem to be focused on her as their prime suspect since her fingerprints are all over the wedding gown. Frankly, the law enforcement element in this book leaves a lot to be desired. I found myself thinking throughout the book, “Hello, Detective, OF COURSE Helen’s fingerprints are on the gown, you nit-wit, she works for the bridal boutique and is helping to dress the bride!” Helen even emphasizes this fact to them, but they seem to be a few sandwiches short of a picnic, so of course, Helen is going to have to figure out who the killer is on her own.

Helen’s new man in her life won’t be much help either. Apparently, his wife that nobody, especially Helen, knew about has shown up for an unexpected visit and Helen is livid. I thought she handled the entire situation poorly. If she would have taken 5 minutes to listen to him, the entire mess could have been resolved. There is an interesting scene where Helen finds herself on the receiving end of some embarrassment when she tries to surprise Phil but his wife one-ups her. Frankly, I could have done without this story line. Helen’s luck with relationships is a big fat zero so to my way of thinking, she should just focus on keeping her rent paid and feeding herself and her cat, Thumbs. Helen’s near obsession with the whole thing was over the top and was distracting her from focusing on finding out who the killer is. Since I’m not all that thrilled with the Phil relationship anyway, I couldn’t care less if he’s married. Helen shouldn’t be throwing rocks from inside her glass house anyway. She’s got lots of secrets herself that she hasn’t been forthcoming with anyone about. Pot and kettle and all that.

I’m still invested in this series, though I’m not sure why. Maybe Phil will grow on me and Helen might actually get herself on track and get her past resolved so she can focus on a smooth future. In the meantime, she manages to muddle her way through, finds the killer without getting herself killed or at the very least, seriously hurt. There are currently eleven books in this series, so I haven’t even gotten halfway through yet. A lot can happen between now and then. I can say with absolute certainty that I enjoyed this dead-end job better than her last one. Helen’s next job is at a pet boutique so I’m hopeful that this series hasn’t yet gone to the dogs.

REVIEW: Treachery In Death by J.D. Robb

Title: Treachery in Death (In Death, #32)
Author: J.D. Robb
Publisher: Putnam
Publication Date: February, 2011
Genre: Mystery / Thriller
Rating: 10/10

Description: In the latest from the #1 New York Times bestselling phenomenon, Eve Dallas tracks down those who break the law—including the ones sworn to uphold it.

Detective Eve Dallas and her partner, Peabody, are following up on a senseless crime—an elderly grocery owner killed by three stoned punks for nothing more than kicks and snacks. This is Peabody's first case as primary detective—good thing she learned from the master.

But Peabody soon stumbles upon a trickier situation. After a hard workout, she's all alone in the locker room when the gym door clatters open; and-while hiding inside a shower stall trying not to make a sound—she overhears two fellow officers, Garnet and Oberman, arguing. It doesn't take long to realize they're both crooked—guilty not just of corruption but of murder. Now Peabody, Eve, and Eve's husband, Roarke, are trying to get the hard evidence they need to bring the dirty cops down—knowing all the while that the two are willing to kill to keep their secret.

My Thoughts: Eve and the gang are back investigating an unwarranted attack on an elderly man and his wife who own a grocery store. The man is killed and Eve gives Peabody her first shot as primary detective. Being cops and seeing the worst side of humanity can make anyone cynical, but when the worst side of humanity is festering within the NYPSD, dirty cops who have been entrusted to serve the community and protect the innocent, Eve doesn’t get cynical, she gets angry. She gets irate. She takes it personal.

After Peabody overhears two cops in the locker room and quickly realizes they are planning a murder to cover-up a bigger trail of corruption, Peabody realizes she’s in way over her head and has McNab take her to Eve. Eve, once again, doesn’t disappoint and quickly orchestrates her own plan to sideline the dirty cops, even though she knows they will stop at nothing to cover themselves. The more Eve digs into the dirty squad, the bigger a target she becomes. I loved how Eve is like a pit bull in this story, latching onto every shred of evidence with an iron-fist grip, refusing to let go. Eve is a very tenacious character anyway when she’s investigating a homicide. It doesn’t matter to her who the victim is. They are hers and she, too, will stop at nothing to get to the bottom of it.

I especially enjoyed watching Eve go head-to-head with the corrupt Lieutenant, who has a high standing in the Department and whose father was a decorated Commander. I loved watching her get into the faces of the corrupt members of the squad, stirring the pot, making their perfect world uncomfortable. Eve knows the risks she is taking by antagonizing them, but it seemed to me that she was enjoying herself too much to stop and I was enjoying watching it unfold. It was a little disturbing to see how far these cops would go to keep their secrets. They aren’t above killing cops and have done so and try to kill yet more cops, including Eve.

Although I love this series, Treachery in Death is definitely one of my favorites. Peabody is really evolving as a character that could easily have her own series, though I would very much miss the interactions between her and Eve. So much has happened in this series that it’s so hard to remember that the entire series, so far, only spans a couple of years when it feels like ten or more years have passed. Time really does fly when you are having fun and hopefully for the readers the fun is just beginning.

REVIEW: This Side Of The Grave by Jeaniene Frost

Title: This Side of the Grave (Night Huntress #5)
Author: Jeaniene Frost
Publisher: Avon
Publication Date: February, 2011
Genre: Paranormal Romance / Urban Fantasy
Rating: 10/10

Description: Danger waits on both sides of the grave.

Half-vampire Cat Crawfield and her vampire husband Bones have fought for their lives, as well as for their relationship. But just when they've triumphed over the latest battle, Cat's new and unexpected abilities threaten to upset a long-standing balance . . .

With the mysterious disappearance of vampires, rumors abound that a species war is brewing. A zealot is inciting tensions between the vampires and ghouls, and if these two powerful groups clash, innocent mortals could become collateral damage. Now Cat and Bones are forced to seek help from a dangerous "ally," —the ghoul queen of New Orleans herself. But the price of her assistance may prove more treacherous than even the threat of a supernatural war . . . to say nothing of the repercussions Cat never imagined.

My Thoughts: The Night Huntress series is one of my favorite series. Cat and Bones are characters I connected with immediately and they continue to entertain me and make an impression. This story is a little sad, though, because one of the major characters isn’t long for this world. I’m still trying to figure out Marie, the voodoo queen. Is she an ally or an enemy? Several times in this book, my opinion fluctuated regarding her motives.

One of my favorite parts of the book is when Bones is teaching Cat how to fly. The means with which he is trying to trigger her flight skill was quite humorous and thoroughly enjoyable. There are some other new abilities that Cat receives in this story that were a little creepy and didn’t make any sense initially.

We see quite a bit more of Vlad in this story and I’m looking forward to reading his story when it comes out this month.

My only problem with this story is the very tiny appearance of Ian. I love this character and think he brings fantastic irony to otherwise tense situations and his special brand of humor and smart aleck remarks were sorely missed in this book.

Overall, another great installment of the Night Huntress series and I am eagerly anticipating the next one. If you enjoy paranormal romance, urban fantasy or action packed stories with lots of great fight scenes and covert military ops missions, this is a series you can really sink your teeth into.

New Additions To The TBR Pile In May

Seems a little redundant to add these titles to my new additions post as I am currently reading them. Does it count since they won't be languishing on the ever growing pile? Probably not, but really, who's counting?

This Side Of The Grave by Jeaniene Frost

Description: Danger waits on both sides of the grave.

Half-vampire Cat Crawfield and her vampire husband Bones have fought for their lives, as well as for their relationship. But just when they've triumphed over the latest battle, Cat's new and unexpected abilities threaten to upset a long-standing balance . . .

With the mysterious disappearance of vampires, rumors abound that a species war is brewing. A zealot is inciting tensions between the vampires and ghouls, and if these two powerful groups clash, innocent mortals could become collateral damage. Now Cat and Bones are forced to seek help from a dangerous "ally"—the ghoul queen of New Orleans herself. But the price of her assistance may prove more treacherous than even the threat of a supernatural war . . . to say nothing of the repercussions Cat never imagined.


Treachery In Death by J.D. Robb

Description: In the latest from the #1 New York Times bestselling phenomenon, Eve Dallas tracks down those who break the law—including the ones sworn to uphold it.

Detective Eve Dallas and her partner, Peabody, are following up on a senseless crime—an elderly grocery owner killed by three stoned punks for nothing more than kicks and snacks. This is Peabody's first case as primary detective—good thing she learned from the master.

But Peabody soon stumbles upon a trickier situation. After a hard workout, she's all alone in the locker room when the gym door clatters open; and-while hiding inside a shower stall trying not to make a sound—she overhears two fellow officers, Garnet and Oberman, arguing. It doesn't take long to realize they're both crooked—guilty not just of corruption but of murder. Now Peabody, Eve, and Eve's husband, Roarke, are trying to get the hard evidence they need to bring the dirty cops down—knowing all the while that the two are willing to kill to keep their secret.

Snow White And The Huntsman

Snow White And The Huntsman
Release Date: June 1, 2012
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron, Chris Hemsworth, Sam Claflin, Ray Winstone, Ian McShane, Bob Hoskins
MPAA Rating: PG-13

Plot Summary: In the epic action-adventure "Snow White and the Huntsman," Kristen Stewart ("Twilight") plays the only person in the land fairer than the evil queen (Oscar® winner Charlize Theron) who is out to destroy her. But what the wicked ruler never imagined is that the young woman threatening her reign has been training in the art of war with a huntsman (Chris Hemsworth, "Thor") who was dispatched to kill her. Sam Claflin ("Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides") joins the cast as the prince long enchanted by Snow White's beauty and power.

Review: I have been looking forward to watching this movie for a very long time. This movie takes a giant leap away from the Snow White story we all grew up on and ventures into the dark side with this adaptation. A lot of the elements from the original fairy tale are there but Snow White dons a suit of armor and chain mail and gets her hands dirty.

I have to say that Charlize Theron owned this movie.  Her portrayal of the evil Queen, Ravenna outshines everyone.  She is a character you love to hate and she dominates the story.  The movie should have been called The Evil Queen because she is central to all of it.  Charlize Theron delivers an amazing performance of a woman so obsessed with beauty and power that she will do anything to keep it.  She's strong but very weak, determined but ruled by her emotions.

I enjoyed Kristen Stewart's portrayal of Snow White much more than her performance as Bella in the Twilight saga.  She doesn't come across as a dainty girl and if you are looking for singing to the forest animals and keeping house for seven dwarves, you will be disappointed.  This Snow White is made of sterner stuff.  She has been imprisoned in a tower for many years, isolated from the world she once knew with no family or anyone else to support her.  She's clever and though she's young and inexperienced, she possesses a great strength of will and determination.

One of my favorite scenes in the movie is the infamous apple scene.  It carried surprising twists and unexpected outcomes.  The cinematography for this movie was breathtaking and the special effects were amazing.

Chris Hemsworth has been a busy guy so far this year.  I loved him as Thor in The Avengers and lucky for me and the rest of his fans, he's back as the Huntsman.  I loved his performance as the widowed-village drunkard Huntsman.  This is a man who doesn't seem to care for anyone or anything.  He drinks excessively and when we first meet him, he's on the receiving end of an ass whooping.  The Queen promises to bring his dead wife back if he goes into the forest to retrieve her prisoner and though he wants that more than anything, he quickly discovers that the Queen lied and finds himself helping Snow White though he doesn't know who she is.

The dwarves were an unexpected surprise.  None of the "hi-ho hi-ho, off to work we go" crap.  They are tough, tenacious fighters who are more likely to shoot first then ask questions later.  The magic of special effects transforms brilliant actors Ian McShane, Bob Hoskins, Ray Winstone, Nick Frost and others into dwarves with attitude.

There were some flaws in the movie.  I didn't find it logical that Ravenna would go the lengths and extremes she does because of men using women and casting them aside.  If there had been a little more detail given into Ravenna's background, it would have helped.  We are given a few flashback memories and a rambling speech right before Ravenna kills Snow White's father, but it didn't cut it.

All villains need minions and Ravenna is no exception.  Her brother, Finn is hers and he's creepy as hell.  There's a scene where he is sent to fetch Snow White that was so disturbing to me.  I had the feeling he's a predator of women and probably children.  I didn't shed any tears when he bought the farm.

Also, Snow White's childhood friend, William was off the mark for me.  This movie lacks a prince.  William's father is a Duke.  That would make William a Marquess not a Prince.

Overall and overlooking these minor flaws, I found Snow White and the Huntsman to be a beautifully made film with intriguing characters, breathtaking locations, exciting battle scenes bringing a classic story to life.

Verdict:  Highly recommended.  I will be adding it to my collection.