From the Stacks: Leviathan Wakes

Okay, and the time has finally come for me to jump into Leviathan Wakes, an interesting sci-fi adventure that took me far too long to read.

Summary:

"Humanity has colonized the solar system - Mars, the Moon, the Asteroid Belt and beyond - but the stars are still out of our reach.

Jim Holden is XO of an ice miner making runs from the rings of Saturn to the mining stations of the Belt. When he and his crew stumble upon a derelict ship, The Scopuli, they find themselves in possession of a secret they never wanted. A secret that someone is willing to kill for - and kill on a scale unfathomable to Jim and the crew. War is brewing in the system unless he can find out who left the ship and why.

Detective Miller is looking for a girl. One girl in a system of billions, but her parents have money and money talks. When the trail leads him to The Scopuli and rebel sympathizer Holden, he realizes that this girl may be the key to everything.

Holden and Miller must thread the needle between the Earth government, the Outer Planet revolutionaries, and secretive corporations - and the odds are against them. But out in the Belt, the rules are different, and one small ship can change the fate of the universe."

My Thoughts:

There really were some things I absolutely loved about this book. I should probably point out for those who don't know, I usually am a fantasy reader, or a paranormal romance or YA reader. I'm also a sucker for a good piece of classic literature (probably why I ended up getting a B.A. in English Literature), but I'm trying to expand my horizons.

I've mentioned a few times a couple book clubs I joined, one being Vaginal Fantasy Hangout, and I've reviewed a few of those books already, but the other is Sword & Laser, which started as a podcast and is also a group on Goodreads, but last year it also joined the lineup on the Geek & Sundry channel on YouTube, becoming a web show as well. Sword & Laser is hosted by Tom Merritt and Veronica Belmont. I love the series and because they alternate their book picks from fantasy to science fiction, it has given me that push I need to try new things.

Leviathan Wakes was the book pick in July 2012, and that's when I started reading it. Though the characters were interesting and there was great development on the whole mystery of who was behind everything and what was going on, I could not read this book quickly. I typically read about 20 pages at a time and then would put the book aside to read something else. For some reason I was not so completely sucked into this book that I couldn't stop reading. I finally finished reading this book at the end of December 2012 and I'm glad I stuck with it and finished.

Overall I really was more interested in the chapters revolving around Holden and his crew, rather than those of Miller. Holden and his crew very much reminded me of the crew of the Serenity in the TV series Firefly. Their lifestyle, personalities, and banter really made me feel like I was watching some previously undiscovered episode and that was great. Miller's story ended up intertwining with Holden's but Miller was a detective, though I will say that Miller's mannerisms and such really reminded me of reading a Raymond Chandler novel, which was nice.

It was an interesting novel and I enjoyed learning about life in space, especially seeing as how this book also includes people inhabiting the asteroid belt between the inner planets and the outer planets of our solar system and creating this rather interesting society of people. I'm on the fence about whether or not I'll try to read the second book in the series. If I do read it, I'll probably wait a little while before I do.

So, even though it took forever for me to read, I thought it was well-written, well-researched, and had interesting and endearing characters. Leviathan Wakes earns a 4/5.

Leviathan Wakes at Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/leviathan-wakes-james-s-a-corey/1100293281?ean=9780316129084

Leviathan Wakes at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Leviathan-Wakes-Expanse-James-Corey/dp/0316129089/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1357418629&sr=8-1&keywords=Leviathan+Wakes

Other Readings:

Well, I've almost finished my book to be reviewed tomorrow, Throne of Glass, and I am loving it so far. I've also started in on Temptation by Karen Ann Hopkins and I seriously may have to add it as a bonus post next month. Oh, and I've made some really good progress on my first regular From the Stacks for 2013, Born at Midnight by C.C. Hunter. 

From the Stacks: Shadow Bound

Okay, so here we are at the second in the Unbound series. It is the sequel to Blood Bound, which I reviewed December 24th, and the final book will be out April 23, 2013 and I am so incredibly excited for it.

Summary:

"Kori Daniels is a shadow-walker, able to travel instantly from one shadow to another. After weeks of confinement for betraying her boss, she's ready to break free of the Tower syndicate for good. But Jake Tower has one final job for Kori, one chance to secure freedom for herself and her sister, Kenley, even if it means taking it from someone else...

The job? Recruit Ian Holt - or kill him.

Ian's ability to manipulate the dark has drawn interest from everyone syndicate in the world, most notably an invitation from Jake Tower. Though he has no interest in organized crime, Ian accepts the invite, because he's on a mission of his own. Ian has come to kill Tower's top Binder: Kori's little sister.

Amid the tangle of lies, an unexpected thread of truth connecting Ian and Kori comes to light. But with opposing goals, they'll have to choose between love and liberty..."

My Thoughts:

Wow...Kori is quite the interesting character. I loved getting to see more of her, since she played only a small part in the first book. But she is a strong woman who is also quite vulnerable. She cares deeply for her family and it's clear she would let anything happen to her if it meant that she could save and protect her sister. 

Then we are introduced to Ian, and holy moly, I loved him from the first time he stepped on the page. He also has a powerful ability, one that makes him an extremely valuable prize for either of the syndicates, which of course means that we do get to have some interaction with Liv and Cam from the first book.

With all the secrets that are revealed in Oath Bound and all the twists and turns...and the ending...oh boy, I am extremely anxious to see what happens in the final book. Right now I can't even predict how Rachel Vincent is going to wrap all of these story lines up with one more book, but in just a few more months I'll devour the book in a matter of hours and I'm certain I will be as blown away as I have with the rest of the series. I own these as NOOK books, but I'm seriously thinking that I need to get paperbacks as well, because the Unbound series is one that I plan on sharing with all of my friends.

Shadow Bound definitely receives a 5/5 from me and I can't wait to see what fun is in store for Kori's brother Kristopher and new character Sera Brandt, who according to the book summary is the secret daughter of the head of one of the crime families. April can't come soon enough.

Shadow Bound at Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/shadow-bound-rachel-vincent/1107467550?ean=9780778313434

Shadow Bound at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Bound-Unbound-Rachel-Vincent/dp/0778313433/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1356930314&sr=8-1&keywords=Shadow+Bound

Other Readings:

Okay, so I finally finished reading Leviathan Wakes, which made it my 85th book read this year. Now, to be fair, a few of the books I read were omnibus editions that had two or three books in them, but on Goodreads an omnibus only counts as one book. Probably my final total is more like 90-93, but still, I think it is a pretty good achievement.

I've actually already started on my books for 2013. I've gotten a little further with Throne of Glass and I'm anxious to dig into some of my other recent grabs both in the store and at the library. So, stay tuned, there are plenty more From the Stacks posts to come.

From the Stacks: Alchemystic

I admit it...I've had a thing for gargoyles since my childhood when I watched that animated Gargoyles show on TV. Today, I am taking flight with the first book in The Spellmason Chronicles by Anton Strout, which to me makes it seem like gargoyles could really exist.

Summary:

"Alexandra Belarus is a struggling artist living in New York City until she's forced into her family's real estate empire, which includes a towering Gothic Gramercy Park building built by her great-great-grandfather. But the truth of her bloodline is revealed when she is attacked on the street and saved by an inhumanly powerful winged figure. A figure who knows the Belarus name...

Lexi's great-great-grandfather was a Spellmason - an artisan who could work magic on stone. But in his day, dark forces conspired against him and his, so he left a spell of protection on his family. Now that Lexi is in danger, her ancestor's magic has awoken his most trusted and fearsome creation: a gargoyle named Stanis.

Lexi and Stanis are equally surprised to find themselves bound to each other. But as they learn to work together, they realize that only united can they save the city they both love..."

My Thoughts:

This was a very intriguing book. I thought the setting and the alchemical processes and such were described really well and I felt quite immersed in the world. The novel switches back and forth in POV, from Stanis the gargoyle (or grotesque as the characters prefer to say) and Lexi, who is discovering all sorts of secrets about her family and the power of Spellmasons. 

Stanis and Lexi have an interesting relationship and I'm curious to see what happens as the series progresses. I really loved all the characters in this book. Lexi's brother Devon was a jerk, her parents were...cringe-worthy in their holier than thou attitudes, and her best friend Rory (short for Aurora) was a kick-ass fierce dancer woman. But, I'm sorry, my absolute favorite character was geek-boy Marshall. I adored all of his D&D references and nerdom and his sheer awesomeness. Seriously, I want more Marshall.

Oh, and I'm not going to spoil the surprise but something happened about 2/3 of the way in that I was not expecting and that was awesome. It is not often that a book can throw me for a loop like that so way to go, Mr. Strout. Needless to say, I am eagerly awaiting the next book, due out in September 2013. Alchemystic is a 5/5.

Other Readings:

I went to the library today and picked up a few books: Old Man's War by John Scalzi (the January pick for Sword & Laser), as well as Unearthly by Cynthia Hand, Temptation by Karen Ann Hopkins, and a book I've heard great things about, Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein. So, I'm really looking forward to the books I'll be finishing up in early January 2013. It's going to be a great year; I can tell already.

From the Stacks: Succubus Blues

The main pick for the Vaginal Fantasy book club in December. The live Google+ hangout to discuss the book will be December 30th at 2PM Pacific. Sadly I'll have to watch it after I get off work that day, but my review is here now.

Summary:

"When it comes to jobs in hell, being a succubus seems pretty glamorous. A girl can be anything she wants, the wardrobe is killer, and mortal men will do anything just for a touch. Granted, they often pay with their souls, but why get technical?

But Seattle succubus Georgina Kincaid's life is far less exotic. At least there's her day job at a local bookstore - free books; all the white chocolate mochas she can drink; and easy access to bestselling, sexy writer, Seth Mortensen, aka He Whom She Would Give Anything to Touch but Can't.

But dreaming about Seth will have to wait. Something wicked is at work in Seattle's demon underground. And for once, all of her hot charms and drop-dead one-liners won't help because Georgina's about to discover there are some creatures out there that both heaven and hell want to deny..."

My Thoughts:

First, I would like to point out that my copy of the book is the Mass Market Paperback version, which has an updated cover. It was released a couple years ago and since then they've released the Mass Market Paperbacks of the second and third books. Since I like those covers better, those are the ones I am going to purchase myself.

Moving on, I really enjoy Richelle Mead. She is one of my favorite authors, period. I stumbled upon Vampire Academy in the library, devoured it, and then continued on, reading every single book I could find.  It doesn't matter if the book is YA or Adult; they are all amazing. Succubus Blues follows Georgina, who has been a succubus for quite some time and she is one of those girls who doesn't exactly take pleasure in her job...well, at least the succubus job. Her other job is at a bookstore and honestly that might be what really drew me into the series.

I admire Georgina's restraint. At one point I remember her making a comment that she only reads 10 pages a night so she can enjoy the book and doesn't just devour it in one fell swoop. I could never show that sort of restraint towards books. And then there's Seth, adorable writer Seth, and Georgina is obsessed with him and his writing.

The characters in this book are great, having these supernatural abilities and such while at the same time being rather grounded in normalcy. It is a very nice balance and I appreciate that. I feel bad for Georgina in the fact that she can't be with Seth in a sexual manner because of who she is, and I feel bad for Seth because I want them to be together but I cannot imagine being in a relationship with someone knowing that they are going out and sleeping with a bunch of other people. Seth is seriously a saint.

I highly recommend any books by Richelle Mead. Seriously, go check them out. 5/5.

Succubus Blues at Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/succubus-blues-richelle-mead/1100324771?ean=9780821780770

Succubus Blues at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Succubus-Blues-Richelle-Mead/dp/0821780778/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1356756395&sr=8-1&keywords=Succubus+Blues

Other Readings:

Wow...I can't believe we are almost at the end of 2012. It's crazy. I've been pulling together some ideas for which books to read and then review for my From the Stacks posts for at least the first couple of months. Right now my to-read list on Goodreads has 590 books on it, and I know at least 100 of those are books I own but for some reason or another haven't quite gotten around to reading yet. I'm hoping to find a nice balance of YA books and then sf/f books. It may be that next year I start trying to do something like 6 From the Stacks posts a month instead of just one every Friday. What do you guys think? Tomorrow I should have my review of Anton Strout's Alchemystic ready for you guys. Until then, happy reading.

From the Stacks: Showtime

Today's book marks a new experience for me. The author contacted me on Goodreads and told me that she saw that I had marked her book as to-read before asking if I would like a free e-book copy in exchange for an honest review. I am never one to turn down a free book, so naturally I said yes. Welcome to the Marvelle Circus with Chloe Kayne's Showtime.

Summary:

"The grandeur of the traveling circus is at its peak in the early 1920s when sixteen-year-old Laila Vilonia is searching for an escape from her bleak future. Behind the gates of the legendary Marvelle Circus, she is thrust into a mysterious world she never knew existed—a paradise populated with outcasts. It’s in this glamorous new home that Laila sparks a controversial romance with notorious sideshow performer, "The Disappearing Man," and learns just how dangerous her new life can be.

Touring the picturesque eastern coast of America, Laila’s immersed in friendship, vaudeville, festivals, sequins, and serial killers. But behind the curtain, a sadistic plan is brewing that will crack the very foundation upon which she’s become so dependent."

My Thoughts:

Okay, for the most part I enjoyed this story. Laila had a difficult life and chose to escape it by joining the circus, even if she had to lie a little bit to do so. Now, I have read a couple other circus books (Erin Morgenstern's The Night Circus and Sara Gruen's Water for Elephants come to mind first) and Morgenstern had a magical story that entranced me and I didn't want to walk away (probably why I own it in hardcover, e-book, and audiobook) and Gruen started with that mysterious prologue and the book had that realistic and gritty quality to it, which I enjoyed.

I feel that Kayne did a great job describing the aerialist routines and I could picture those rather well, but there were a few things that kept popping up and bothering me, making me focus on them, and that drew me out of this otherwise good story. Showtime takes place in 1918 and yet the Marvelle circus supposedly has a 20,000 grandstand-seat 3-ringed circus tent going on. That seemed completely unrealistic to me and it just bugged me. Also, I remember towards the end in the whole major climax moment and stuff the bad guys (I won't say who because I don't want to ruin the story) tell Laila that Marvelle is making a fortune off her, because they charge $5 a seat, which with the 20,000 seats is $100,000 a night provided that the show is sold out. In 1918 $5 would have been quite a bit of money, and I certainly don't think a circus would charge $5 PER SEAT.

Another point that got me (and I'm sorry that it sounds like I'm being mean in this, but I was asked for an honest review and I'm going to give it) is that Kayne really needed to go through the novel one more time in edits before self-publishing. I completely respect that she self-published and seems to be getting quite a few good reviews on this, but I did browse through some of the reviews and found a few people saying basically the same thing as I am now. Kayne has a bad habit of using the wrong homonym of certain words, particularly saying passed instead of past, and mixing up taught and taut. It isn't something that the spelling and grammar checker of programs such as Microsoft Word will necessarily catch.

Okay, but I will say that I really did enjoy most of the characters. They had thought out backgrounds and their mannerisms were consistent throughout the story. I really enjoyed James, but I felt that he disappeared for a while through the middle and I kept wondering where he was and why he wasn't hanging out with the group of people. I fell for Dex, just like Laila did, and I am definitely eager to learn more about him, as well as his twin Seth, who I think of as the evil twin, really. Oh, and Kayne did such a great job with Laila's mom. I really did not like her.

So, this book had its pros and cons, and overall I am going to give it a 3.5/5. With some additional polishing on the passed/past, taught/taut and the seating and pricing issues, I would probably up my rating to a 4 or a 4.5. I can say that I have already put the second book, due out in Spring 2014, on my to-read list.

Showtime at Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/showtime-chloe-kayne/1112974167?ean=2940015697551

Showtime at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/SHOWTIME-Marvelle-Circus-1-ebook/dp/B009EDU37E/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1356669686&sr=8-2&keywords=Chloe+Kayne

Other Readings:

I'm all excited because my Christmas packages came in the mail today. My grandma always writes me a check for $25 for Christmas and then I can get whatever I'd like. This year I decided on getting myself a copy of Jim C. Hines's Libriomancer because I couldn't continue without my own copy, and then I decided on Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes. I have heard great things about the book and I can't wait to dive into it. So, I think that's all for now and I'll be back tomorrow for my regularly scheduled From the Stacks post.

From the Stacks: A Soul for Trouble

After enjoying a free book (Tangled Web) from Crista McHugh, I went in search of more of her stuff to read. The giveaway I won came with bookmarks, one of which showed the covers for The Soulbearer Trilogy. So, here I am now, with a review for A Soul for Trouble.

Summary:

"When you're a witch named Trouble, chaos follows.

Arden Lesstymine (known to everyone as Trouble) likes attention as much as the next girl, but this is getting ridiculous. When an insane stranger is murdered at the inn where she works, Trouble becomes the next Soulbearer for the disembodied god of chaos, Loku. Yes, it comes with the ability to channel the god's limitless power, but at the cost of her sanity - literally. Now she has a sexy but cynical knight claiming to be her protector, a prince trying to seduce her to his cause (and his bed), and a snarky chaos god who offers a play-by-play commentary on it all, whether she wants to hear it or not. To make matters worse, a necromancer wants to capture the soul of Loku for his own dark purposes, and the only way he can get it is by killing her first."

My Thoughts:

Trouble is so naive that it's adorable. I almost feel sorry for her, but she does manage to hold herself up against the otherwise male ensemble cast of the novel. I mean you have Dev-her protector, Kell-a womanizing prince, Loku-a disembodied god, and you could even include Cinder, who is a fire-wolf. And the men in her life are all so different that it is really nice. Crista McHugh does a great job bringing all of these people to life. 

Dev is so honorable and tortured by the failures of his past, and tries so hard not to make any move on Arden, which confuses her and makes her think that he isn't interested in her, though Loku tries to tell her otherwise since he has known Dev for quite some time.

Then there is Kell, who seems so completely sure of himself and his ability with women. Also to consider is that Kell is trying to keep Trouble from being executed for using magic because he thinks she will help save them from the necromancer and zombies. Of course, it also seemed like every time something might have happened between Kell and Trouble, Dev would show up or Loku would make some sort of commentary. I would have felt sorry for the guy if it weren't for the fact that I had already fallen for Dev.

Loku, Loku, Loku - I love him as a character. He pops in and makes all sorts of commentary about Trouble's difficult romantic situation and keeps trying to get her to use the immense power she receives by being his Soulbearer. But, at the heart of it all, I think Loku knows that he will never have another Soulbearer like Trouble, that she is the one he has been searching for all along. Through the whole book it doesn't seem that she is going crazy from having Loku in her mind, but I guess there are two more books to go.

This is another great story by Crista McHugh and the second book, A Soul for Chaos, is out now and I need to get it soon. And I can say that I'm very intrigued by the title of the third and final book, A Soul for Vengeance. What horrors await in the second book? I can't wait to read more. Rating: 5/5.

A Soul for Trouble at Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-soul-for-trouble-crista-mchugh/1111985498?ean=9781468158748

A Soul for Trouble at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Soul-For-Trouble-Soulbearer-Trilogy/dp/1468158740/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1356568961&sr=8-1&keywords=Crista+McHugh

Other Readings:

I only have a few more books to finish before I've hit the goal I've already changed about 5 times on Goodreads. I started the year planning to read 50 books, but I finished book 81 last night, so I'm thinking I can hit 85 books by the end of 2012. With any luck I can do the same or better in 2013. I'm looking forward to trying anyway.

From the Stacks: City of Lost Souls

I realize that this is the fifth book of the series and as I hadn't started the blog when I read the others, I don't have reviews for them, but I needed a book to review, so here we are.

Summary:

"The demon Lilith has been destroyed and Jace freed from captivity. But when the Shadowhunters arrive, they find only blood and broken glass. Not only is the boy Clary loves missing, so is the boy she hates: her brother Sebastian, who is determined to bring the Shadowhunters to their knees.

The Clave's magic cannot locate either boy, but Jace can't stay away from Clary. When they meet again Clary discovers the horror Lilith's magic has wrought - Jace and Sebastian are now bound to each other, and Jace has become a servant of evil. The Clave is determined to destroy Sebastian, but there is no way to harm one boy without destroying the other.

Only a few people believe that Jace can still be saved. Together, Alec, Magnus, Simon, and Isabelle bargain with the sinister Seelie Queen, contemplate deals with demons, and turn at last to the merciless, weapon-making Iron Sisters, who might be able to forge a weapon that can sever the bond between Sebastian and Jace. If the Iron Sisters can't help, their only hope is to challenge Heaven and Hell - a risk that could claim their lives.

And they must do it without Clary. For Clary is playing a dangerous game utterly alone. The price of losing is not just her own life, but Jace's soul. She's willing to do anything for Jace, but can she still trust him? Or is he truly lost? What price is too high to pay, even for love?

Love. Blood. Betrayal. Revenge. Darkness threatens to claim the Shadowhunters in the harrowing fifth book of the Mortal Instruments series."

My Thoughts:

I really enjoyed the first four books and couldn't stop reading them. This book though...I've had it for almost six weeks now and I just now finished it. I've had it sitting on my desk and I basically had no great desire to pick it up to read. I don't know what it was about this book, but I just wasn't as interested in it. There are a great number of series where there are numerous books. When I was a kid I read the Animorphs series by K.A. Applegate and there were 54 books, plus the Megamorphs and Alternamorphs specials and a couple other bonus books, and those drew me in and held my interest through the whole series. 

But here, with City of Lost Souls, I just felt that it is getting dull and repetitive. It is still well-written and such, but I'm just not as excited by it. Why does it seem like every book Cassandra Clare has to find a way to keep Clary and Jace apart. It's just old. At this point I'm more interested in the Magnus/Alec relationship and the Simon/Isabelle relationship. Clary and Jace just seem too...I don't even think predictable is really the right word, but really I basically knew what they both would do and say because they are that tragic couple who would sacrifice anything to save the other. 

I'll keep reading these books to satisfy my curiosity because I don't like to drop a series I've spent so much time reading and wondering about, but that's about it. I'm actually more interested in the Infernal Devices series than I am the Mortal Instruments right now, but nevertheless, I'm glad I finally got around to reading this book. Anyway, I'm curious to see if Isabelle will take that big step forward in their relationship since Simon won't, and I want to know if Alec will find a way to make up for the mistakes he made in City of Lost Souls. Also, I really want to have Jocelyn and Luke get married already, seriously. And, okay, I'm a little curious about Jace being filled with heavenly fire now, but since book six, City of Heavenly Fire, isn't expected until 2014, I won't waste too much time thinking about all of this.

The book is well written and is fairly interesting so I give it a 4/5.

City of Lost Souls at Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/city-of-lost-souls-cassandra-clare/1104511184?ean=9781442460676

City of Lost Souls at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/City-Lost-Souls-Mortal-Instruments/dp/1442416866/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1356493311&sr=8-1&keywords=City+of+Lost+Souls

Other Readings:

For Christmas I bought myself a couple of books with money given to me by my grandmother. One of those books was Libriomancer by Jim C. Hines, because I simply couldn't continue on without owning my own copy. The other one I bought is Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes, and I can't wait to read it. Also on my to-read list and will most likely be reviewed in January are: Born at Midnight by C.C. Hunter, Embers in a Dark Frost by Kelly Keaton, Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi, and Coveted by Shawntelle Madison. I am going to attempt for 2013 to have some semblance of balance in my reviews between YA books and adult books.

From the Stacks: Blood Bound

Okay, so I have to start this post by saying that I read this book in November 2011, but I am seriously going to pick it up and read it again in anticipation of the third and final book being released April 23, 2013.

Summary:

"By blood, by word, by magic...

Most can't touch the power. But Liv Warren is special - a paranormal tracker who follows the scent of blood.

Liv makes her own rules, and the most important one is trust no one.

But when her friend's daughter goes missing, Liv has no choice but to find the girl. Thanks to a childhood oath, Liv can't rest until the child is home safe. But that means trusting Cam Caballero, the former lover forbidden to her.

Bound by oath and lost in desire for a man she cannot have, Live is racing to save the child from a dark criminal underworld where secrets, lies, trauma and danger lurk around every corner...every touch...every kiss.

And more blood will be spilled before it's over..."

My Thoughts:

The world in this book is amazing and it drew me in. I loved the complexity of the characters. Probably one of the things I enjoyed most was that the romance in this book was not that of two people who had just met, but two people who had been in a relationship before and had separated. During the course of the book Liv and Cam run into each other more and more and it brings up all those old feelings.

The Unbound series is an interesting place to visit and I'm certain that I do not wish to live there. Oaths are so restrictive and binding and leaving your blood lying around can be extremely dangerous. Even letting someone know your full and complete name puts you at their mercy. Seriously, it is that awesome and crazy and I cannot explain all of the awesomeness in detail.

I was drawn in to Blood Bound, devoured it, and then had to wait impatiently to read book two, Shadow Bound, and after finishing off the second book, I am now anxiously awaiting the third and final book's release. I loved Liv and Cam, and learning about the complexities of the world and the syndicates who control the area and most of the characters in the book. I also loved the well...almost happy ending of this book, though it is clear that the issues are only going to become more tense as the trilogy progresses.

I highly recommend this book. It is definitely a 5/5.

Other Readings:

Merry Christmas/Happy Holidays/etc. everyone. I really enjoy doing these From the Stacks posts and sharing some of the books I've read and enjoyed over the year. We still have another week left of December and I have a post ready for each day, plus one to start the new year, so eight more From the Stacks posts before I return to my regular one review a week. Right now I'm trying to figure out my books and such so I can let you know the first couple books for 2013. I am finishing the final couple chapters for Leviathan Wakes and Alchemystic so I can write up those posts, so I'm off to go read some more.

From the Stacks: Fearless and Spark

Okay, so I'm back with more amazingness in the Elemental series by Brigid Kemmerer. Here's a little looksie  into Hunter's past with the novella Fearless and then we get to delve further into the lives of the Merrick boys, this time focusing on Gabriel in Spark.

Summary:

"Being a force of nature doesn't keep you safe.

Hunter Garrity is used to watching his back. The kids at school sense something different about him. And they're right.

Hunter has powers that have nothing to do with how hard he can throw a punch.

Maybe that's what Clare Kasten is picking up. She's shy, quiet, and intense, but she's sought him out. There's no telling what she wants from him.

But Hunter knows enough to sense a secret when it's close. And getting close to Clare is a danger he's ready to face..."

My Thoughts:

What is with these novellas and being so shocking? They are amazing and they draw me in and I finish them quickly and find myself begging for more. I knew there was something going on with Clare and that there had to be a reason for her getting close to Hunter (and not just because Hunter is yummy). Fearless is basically what happens in Hunter's life not long before he arrives in town for the events of Storm. I actually felt a little bad for Hunter because of his life situation, but it does help the reader to understand him better. It's yet another great read: 5/5.

Summary:

"Gabriel Merrick plays with fire. Literally.

Sometimes he can even control it. And sometimes he can't.

Gabriel has always had his brothers to rely on, especially his twin, Nick. But when an arsonist starts wreaking havoc on their town, all the signs point to Gabriel. Only he's not doing it.

And no one seems to believe him. Except a shy sophomore named Layne, a brainiac who dresses in turtlenecks and jeans and keeps him totally off balance. Layne understands family problems, and she understands secrets. She has a few of her own.

Gabriel can't let her guess about his brothers, about his abilities, about the danger that's right at his heels. But there are some risks he can't help taking.

The fuse is lit..."

My Thoughts:

MmmMmm....Gabriel Merrick. He is great and athletic but has issues with certain academic areas, such as math. Enter the brainy Layne, who I related to (at least when it came to school stuffs) and she ends up helping Gabriel out, and doing that brings her closer to him and to the danger that is the lives of the Merrick boys. 

Gabriel has a temper, which is typical of a fire type, and it pushes him away from his brothers and makes him feel rather alone. This also helps to build a friendship between Gabriel and Hunter...a friendship built over the two of them going out to fires that are later determined to be arson. I think it actually helps Gabriel learn to better control his ability.

Then there is cute shy Layne, and I think being around Gabriel helps her too, especially with everything she has going on at home. Gabriel and Layne complement each other well, and I was glad to see their relationship develop through the novel.

I was completely sucked in, finding myself drawn to the fire of awesome that is this book (the whole series, even). I so cannot wait for the next one. Brigid Kemmerer is incredible. Another 5/5.

Other Readings:

Tomorrow I am going to take you into a world where an oath is practically permanent and it takes so much to break free from deals made. Travel into the Unbound novels by Rachel Vincent, another author who I absolutely love.

From the Stacks: Soulless

I admit it...I enjoy books/movies etc that are a comedy of manners. I had to get through several plays of the sort in my British Humor literature class in college. Soulless fits the bill, and also includes vampires, werewolves, and people born without souls. It is quite enjoyable and I do recommend it.

Summary:

"Alexia Tarabotti is laboring under a great many social tribulations. First, she has no soul. Second, she's a spinster whose father is both Italian and dead. Third, she was rudely attacked by a vampire, breaking all standards of social etiquette.

Where to go from there? From bad to worse apparently, for Alexia accidentally kills the vampire - and then the appalling Lord Maccon (loud, messy, gorgeous, and werewolf) is sent by Queen Victoria to investigate.

With unexpected vampires appearing and expected vampires disappearing, everyone seems to believe Alexia responsible. Can she figure out what is actually happening to London's high society? Will her soulless ability to negate supernatural powers prove useful or just plain embarrassing? Finally, who is the real enemy, and do they have treacle tart?

SOULLESS is a comedy of manners set in Victorian London: full of werewolves, vampires, dirigibles, and tea-drinking."

My Thoughts:

Poor Alexia Tarabotti. In the beginning she seems to be in a rather difficult spot, being a spinster with seemingly no prospects, and on top of that she has no soul, which is an interesting concept to begin with. Then a vampire tries to attack her and it ends up being quite helpful that she is soulless, because he is unable to bite her. I so loved that little twist and I honestly hadn't expected it which made it even more delightful. The touch of Alexia, or anyone who is without a soul, allows a vampire or a werewolf to lose the "monster" and be human again, which was one of the coolest tricks ever. Of course in the incidence of this vampire, it ends up leading to his death, which nicely begins this little tale.

The incident also brings in the yummy Lord Maccon, who is most definitely alpha werewolf, and as typically happens, Alexia ends up being right in the middle of the problems in London and being around Lord Maccon a great deal. Another fascinating character in the series is Lord Akeldama, who is one of Alexia's friends and just happens to be a vampire, and quite a flamboyant one at that. I absolutely adored him. 

Soulless was an amusing and enjoyable book, and I had considered buying it for quite some time when it became the main pick for the Vaginal Fantasy book club. Now I am extremely glad that I read it, and I have bought the other four books in the series, though I have yet to read them. I know I need to do that soon, but I already have such a huge TBR pile that I haven't the slightest idea when I will get around to them. It is in situations such as this that I really wish I had more free time or more time where I could be left alone long enough to read more books and write more reviews.

This thoroughly enjoyable comedy of manners receives a 5/5 from me.

Soulless at Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/soulless-gail-carriger/1100269643?ean=9780316056632

Soulless at Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Soulless-Parasol-Protectorate-Gail-Carriger/dp/0316056634/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1356236895&sr=1-1&keywords=Soulless

Soulless (the manga) at Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/soulless-the-manga-vol-1-gail-carriger/1108563613?ean=9780316182010

Soulless (the manga) at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Soulless-Manga-Vol-Parasol-Protectorate/dp/031618201X/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1356236895&sr=1-3&keywords=Soulless

Other Readings:

I'm still finishing up a few books before the end of the year, but tomorrow I will be back with another bonus From the Stacks post, where I will be returning to the Elemental series by Brigid Kemmerer and reviewing the second novella and the second novel of the series. I seriously am in love with those Merrick boys. Until next time, everyone. 

From the Stacks: The Iron Duke

Alternate history featuring cool twists and turns such as zombies and dirigible pirate captains, all complete with both a mystery and a romance. Welcome to the world of the Iron Seas, a wonderful series of books written by Meljean Brook.

Summary: from the book:

"First in an all-new series where seductive danger and steampunk adventure abound in the gritty world of the Iron Seas.

After the Iron Duke freed England from Horde control, he instantly became a national hero. Now Rhys Trahaearn has build a merchant empire on the power-and fear-of his name. And when a dead body is dropped from an airship onto his doorstep, bringing Detective Inspector Mina Wentworth into his dangerous world, he intends to make her his next possession

But when Mina uncovers the victim's identity, she stumbles upon a conspiracy that threatens the lives of everyone in England. To save them, Mina and Rhys must race across zombie-infested wastelands and treacherous oceans-and Mina discovers the danger is not only to her countrymen, as she finds herself tempted to give up everything to the Iron Duke."

Summary: from The Iron Seas web site:

"After the Iron Duke freed England from Horde control, he instantly became a national hero. Now Rhys Trahaearn has built a merchant empire on the power — and fear — of his name. And when a dead body is dropped from an airship onto his doorstep, bringing Detective Inspector Mina Wentworth into his dangerous world, he intends to make her his next possession.

Mina can’t afford his interest, however. Horde blood runs through her veins, and despite the nanotech enhancing her body, she barely scratches out a living in London society. Becoming Rhys’s lover would destroy both her career and her family, yet the investigation prevents her from avoiding him…and the Iron Duke’s ruthless pursuit makes him difficult to resist.

But when Mina uncovers the victim’s identity, she stumbles upon a conspiracy that threatens the lives of everyone in England. To save them, Mina and Rhys must race across zombie-infested wastelands and treacherous oceans — and Mina discovers the danger is not only to her countrymen as she finds herself tempted to give up everything to the Iron Duke."

My Thoughts:

I loved this book so so much. It was the main pick in April for the Vaginal Fantasy book club I am a part of, and for me it was the first month I could actually afford to buy the books. The Iron Duke was what started a huge reading craze for me, where I went back and read every book picked for Vaginal Fantasy in January, February, and March. They were all amazing, and at the end of the month I got to watch the live Google+ hangout where Felicia Day, Veronica Belmont, Kiala Kazebee, and Bonnie Burton discuss the book and whatever else randomly comes up. I highly recommend them.

Anyway, back to what I should be discussing...the book. I was quickly drawn into the world. Mina is basically what people would think of as a spinster in that time, and to make it worse she has Horde blood, which makes her sort of an outsider, something I think is made more difficult by the fact that she is also a detective inspector.

Meeting Rhys, the Iron Duke, he displays what amounts to alpha male tendencies. Because Mina doesn't seem interested in him, he is determined to have her. Obviously, certain aspects of the plot can be predicted, such as Mina and Rhys ending up together (sorry, I don't consider that to be a spoiler), but the world was vivid and I enjoyed it immensely. Mina's partner/friend/comrade-in-arms/bodyguard Constable Newberry, was great and quite protective of Mina, but he was adorable nevertheless.

Add in the zombies, the dirigibles, and space pirates, and The Iron Duke is irresistible. I am still trying to figure out why I haven't read Heart of Steel (book 2) or Riveted (book 3). I should probably do that soon. This book is definitely 5/5.

The Iron Duke at Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/iron-duke-meljean-brook/1100257277?ean=9780425244265

The Iron Duke at Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=0425244261/melbroaut-20

Ooh...and I stumbled upon a guide to the world of the Iron Seas series, which includes a rough map, the alternate history that led up where the story takes place, and a brief glossary of important terms. http://meljeanbrook.com/books/the-iron-seas/the-iron-seas-guide/

Other Readings:

Tomorrow I am reviewing another Vaginal Fantasy book pick, Soulless by Gail Carriger. Another awesome steampunk book, with paranormal romance thrown in due to vampires and werewolves. I love these books.

From the Stacks: Shattered Dreams

Today, I am traveling to New Orleans and delving into the world of teen psychics with Shattered Dreams by Ellie James. I am currently reading the sequel, Broken Illusions, and I'm trying to track down a copy of the third book so I can jump into it once I've finished the second one.

Shattered Dreams
ISBN: 978-0-312-64702-5

Summary:

"Sixteen-year-old Trinity Monsour wants nothing more than to live a normal life. But that isn't as easy as it seems. Trinity is different. She is special. She sees visions, and for those she's seen, it's already too late.

Trinity arrives on her aunt's doorstep in New Orleans with virtually no knowledge of her mysterious heritage. She begins settling into life at a new school and even starts making friends, but all too quickly her dreams accelerate: twisted, terrifying visions of a girl locked in a dark room. And when the head cheerleader, Jessica, goes missing, Trinity knows she has no choice but to step forward with what she's seen.

The problem is, people believe that Trinity has information about Jessica's disappearance not because of a dream but because she is involved. She is kind of dating Jessica's ex-boyfriend, and Jessica did pull a nasty prank on Trinity. Revenge seems like the likeliest scenario.

Nothing prepares Trinity for the dark odyssey that ensues while searching for Jessica, the surprising romance she finds, or the shocking truths she learns, not just about the girl who has gone missing but about the past that has been hidden from her."

My Thoughts:

Okay, so I started reading this book when I first bought it in December 2011, and I made it through the first couple chapters before setting it aside to read A Game of Thrones. I picked Shattered Dreams up again and had to re-read the first couple chapters before progressing. I finished it in only two hours, so it is a relatively quick read, and Trinity is an interesting enough character, so I'm curious to find out what happens in the next couple books. 

However, I felt that the beginning was quite a bit confusing. We are introduced to seven characters by the first paragraph of page 2. That is a huge number and we certainly know next to nothing about these guys except a few words. The story comes from Trinity's POV and here's how she introduces the others: "Jessica, the stupidly beautiful cheerleader; her way-too-skinny best friend Amber; Jessica's little sister Bethany; and the guys: Chase, the quarterback (and my chemistry lab partner); Drew, who rarely said more than two words at a time; and the massively tattooed Pitre." That really doesn't tell me anything about them and I definitely don't feel invested in any of them. Then they proceed into a game of Truth or Dare that does helpfully lead into Trinity's first vision of impending doom.

In the beginning it is also established that Chase is Jessica's ex, and that Trinity is interested in him. But he is NOT a good romantic interest. Whenever I saw his name on the page, I cringed. He seemed weak to me and I didn't like that he didn't seem to believe Trinity about her dreams. 

I was interested in Jim Fourcade, and I'm curious to learn more about him and what he knows. Even more than that I am interested in Dylan...he makes a much better romantic interest for Trinity than Chase. It seems like Ellie James is trying to set up for a love triangle, but I think there is no competition. Dylan is the obvious winner (at least for me).

What I'd like to see in the next books: Trinity to leave Chase and be with Dylan, to find out more about Jim Fourcade, and for Trinity to stop hiding and running away from everything because she did that a lot. She needs to become more comfortable with her gift and the knowledge that she can help people. 

I liked this book, but the confusing points and the overabundance of characters at the beginning made it a read I didn't completely enjoy. Still, I give it a 3/5 and I will be reading the next book.

Shattered Dreams on Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/shattered-dreams-ellie-james/1102793223?ean=9780312647025

Shattered Dreams on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Dreams-Midnight-Dragonfly-Novel/dp/B008W31EBG/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1356027797&sr=1-1&keywords=shattered+dreams+Ellie+James

Other Readings:

Tomorrow I am really looking forward to sharing my thoughts about The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook. It was one of the book picks for my Vaginal Fantasy book club before I started doing these From the Stacks posts and I still find myself entranced by the world.

From the Stacks: Elemental and Storm

Today is sort of a two for one post...and that's simply because one of the picks is a novella and I didn't want to give it its own post. Anyway, today I am jumping into the Elemental series by Brigid Kemmerer which features all these amazing and powerful young men (most of whom happen to be brothers). I love them.

First up is Elemental which is 0.5 in the series (aka a prequel novella). To be fair about this one, some have said that you should read it first while others say you should wait until after reading Storm. Personally with the way Elemental ended, I think it made the truth all the more shocking when it came out in Storm, so I say read the novella first. Oh, I'm also going to apologize for the slight blur of the pictures. It's sometimes difficult to get a good image when taking a picture of an e-reader.

Elemental by Brigid Kemmerer

Summary:

"Earth, Fire, Air, Water - they are more than you dream.

As an air Elemental, 17-year-old Emily Morgan doesn't have much power. That's okay - she knows what happens to kids who do.

Like Michael Merrick. He's an earth Elemental, one with enough power to level cities. Which makes him sexy, dangerous, and completely off limits. At least according to Emily's family.

But her summer job puts her in close contact with Michael, and neither of them can help the attraction they feel. When forces of nature like theirs collide, one misstep could get someone killed. Because Emily's family doesn't just want her to stay away from him.

They want him dead."

My Thoughts:

Oh my goodness...I instantly fell in love with Michael Merrick, and I really wanted to read so much more with Emily and Michael...but this being a novella meant that it was short and sweet. Of course, this novella also hinted towards the main turmoil that I've seen so far in the series between the Merrick family and some of the other weaker Elementals in town. This was a sweet possible beginning to a relationship that ended too soon. I really really look forward to reading more about Michael. Elemental gets a 5/5.

Storm by Brigid Kemmerer

Summary:

"Becca Chandler is suddenly getting all the guys - all the ones she doesn't want. Ever since her ex-boyfriend spread those lies about her.

Then she saves Chris Merrick from a beating in the school parking lot. Chris is different. Way different: he can control water - just like his brothers can control fire, wind, and earth. They're powerful. Dangerous. Marked for death.

And now that she knows the truth, so is Becca.

Secrets are hard to keep when your life's at stake. When Hunter, the mysterious new kid around school, turns up with a talent for being in the wrong place at the right time, Becca thinks she can trust him. But then Hunter goes head-to-head with Chris, and Becca wonders who's hiding the most dangerous truth of all.

The storm is coming..."

My Thoughts:

Going from Elemental to Storm there is a time lapse of a few years, which only helps to build the tension between the Merricks and everyone else. Unlike the prequel novella, this story focuses on Chris, the baby of the family, which I found slightly disappointing since I had gotten so drawn in to Michael's story, but Chris quickly won me over. He's such a cutie. Each of these boys is amazing. Seriously.

Okay, so what makes everyone else in this town so against the Merricks is how extremely strong the Merricks are. When it comes to the elements - earth, air, water, fire, and spirit - think of them as each being on a star (pentagram) together. The closer to a point, the stronger the elemental ability, and the Merrick boys are all on the points, a fact that means they should have been destroyed at birth.

Becca encounters Chris Merrick when she saves him from a beating, and then she ends up getting drawn into all the issues of being associated with the Merricks. As she gets closer to them, Becca also gets closer to Hunter, the new boy at school who has a few secrets of his own. By the end of the story Becca has even discovered a secret about herself and that certainly makes this first full novel in the series a thrill to behold.

I was drawn in to this world and I didn't want to leave it. When I had to go to work, I would spend my 10 minute break reading on my NOOK because I didn't want to go 8 hours without reading more about these boys. After finishing this book I automatically had to buy Fearless and Spark, and I devoured them just as quickly. Amazing books! 5/5.

Other Readings:

The next in the series is Fearless (#1.5) and Spark (#2), and I will be getting that review up on the 23rd. The third book in the series, Spirit will be out May 28, 2013, but the third novella Breathless should be out before that. I'm really counting down the days because that is how much I love these books.

Background Noise and Inspirations

I admit it...I've been a little lax in my writing and I need to focus more on that. But things are just so stressful at home. To make my life more insane and stressful, I work full-time at a job I very much dislike because I have to be able to make some sort of payment on my student loans, I help my mom with her college homework, and then I do my reading for both fun and for my From the Stacks posts, and at some point I'm supposed to find time to write, but I'm also filling out as many job applications as I can because I need to get into a schedule and environment that will be better for my sanity.

Anyway, I digress. This is supposed to be about my writing progress, and I'm finding myself being rather inspired to work on several of my novels...most of them being ones I have on my schedule for 2013. Nevertheless they are not the project I am supposed to be editing right now. Yes, granted, my CreateSpace code won't expire until June, but I'd really like to get Project Death: Resurrection out really soon. By my calculations right now, I could theoretically finish the chapter edits by December 31st. The best thing to do after that is to set it aside for about a week and then go over everything again just to be sure I don't have any majorly large problems in the overall story.

I guess this means that if all goes well I should have Project Death: Resurrection out by the end of January. So... *fingers crossed*

When I'm writing I like to have background noise so I don't lose my mind. Most of the time it is music, and I definitely enjoy bands like: Nightwish, Epica, Kamelot, Leaves' Eyes, Paramore, Evanescence, and Within Temptation. I throw other stuff in there as well, but these guys tend to make every novel playlist I create.

Lately I've been putting in DVDs I've seen a hundred times so I don't have to focus on what is on the screen...and better I've been having a Gilmore Girls marathon. I love the show and the witty banter and the amazing characters. Right now I am watching the last episode of season three (again) and then I can move on to Rory's first year of college in season four.

With how much I love these characters and the story lines, it makes me think of my own stories. I hope that my characters are at least half as beloved as Lorelai and Rory Gilmore.

Okay, and now I'm going to get back to writing. Oh, but I should probably also mention that I am planning to have a From the Stacks post up every day starting tomorrow until the first of the year. Enjoy. :)

From the Stacks: Harbinger

I am a huge fan of books that are mythological in nature, whether they are action-adventure fantasy, or romance, whatever. I don't necessarily have a preference to a specific pantheon either. I have read Greek, Roman, Celtic, Norse, Egyptian, Native American, Asian, basically whatever I can get my hands on. On this bonus From the Stacks post, I found myself pulled into Greek mythology in Australia with Peta Crake's Harbinger.

Harbinger by Peta Crake
ISBN: 9781742536484

Summary

"As an Olympic messenger, suburban Aussie girl Ophelia Lind is used to being at the beck and call of the gods. But when gorgeous demigod Aden moves into her neighbourhood and starts taking advantage of her services, Ophelia believes life could not get any worse. She's about to be proven very wrong.

Ophelia tries to enjoy a normal, everyday life while running messages for the Greek gods – but without warning an odious creature - evil incarnate - begins to stalk her. As a messenger dealing with the all-powerful and sometimes frightening gods, Ophelia is accustomed to adventures and scrapes. But this is different. Even Aden, who is madly and deeply in love with Ophelia, finds it difficult to protect her. Suddenly Ophelia is in a battle for survival and begins to question everything – her upbringing, her identity, and her true feelings for the alluring and entirely frustrating Aden."

My Thoughts

I liked this book, but I didn't quite love it, not in the OMG I have to share this with everyone manner of a number of the books I read. Ophelia is a messenger for the gods, so it makes sense that at some point in the book we the readers would have to accompany Ophelia as she receives and then delivers messages. But, and the point does happen quite early on in the story, it seemed to jump far too much for me. It was basically just "She went to see God A, who sent her to Goddess B, who sent her to God C, who sent her to God D, and then Goddess E." For some reason that bugged me. I wanted more information.

Learning about Ophelia, and more about her background and her mom was quite interesting, and I really did enjoy Aden, though I also felt and understood Ophelia's frustration with him. For the most part I thought the romance did seem to grow genuinely, but the attempt at a love triangle (unless she was purposefully making it so it wouldn't be another love triangle story) ended really suddenly with the revelation of who Ophelia's other suitor was. 

The book was a quick read and I did enjoy it, and I would most certainly read a sequel if Peta Crake does write one. All in all, I think I give it a 4/5. Also, I know I usually post links to both Amazon and Barnes & Noble, but there is not a NOOK version of this book. You can buy the ePub from Kobo and then by using Adobe Digital Editions, transfer the file onto your NOOK device. 

Harbinger on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Harbinger-ebook/dp/B008XG3Q90/ref=pd_rhf_se_p_t_1

Harbinger on Kobo: http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/Harbinger/book-l2x8OvA-PUyedzYRLOtoQg/page1.html?s=ft6m_Z5NfUKLNqNbuI39pA&r=5

Other Readings

I have five more bonus posts ready for use this month, and I am still reading on some of my Vaginal Fantasy and Sword & Laser book club picks for reviews as well as some other books I've purchased in either paperback or downloaded on my NOOK. There will most likely be ten or so From the Stacks posts for all of you in December. I hope you enjoy.

From the Stacks: City of Swords

Here it is everyone: A Bonus From the Stacks post. Today I'm talking about one of my great loves...Italy...well okay, an alternate version of Italy, but still. It's amazing. There's romance, and travel, and secrets, and a magic of sorts, and of course an adventure/war type situation. Welcome to the City of Swords.

City of Swords by Mary Hoffman
ISBN: 978-1-59990-842-7

Summary

"Laura is a member of a special group. She's a Stravagante, a person who can travel through time and space.

One day she finds a mysterious silver sword that acts as her talisman. It enables her to stravagate to sixteenth-century Fortezza in Italy, where she meets a swordsmith named Fabio. Laura also meets the charming and attractive Ludo, and they instantly fall for each other. The only problem? A rivalry is brewing in Fortezza that will force them to fight on opposing sides. Ludo is battling to overtake the Fortezza crown, while Laura finds herself supporting the Stravaganti, the ones responsible for preventing Ludo from succeeding. Will Laura and Ludo be able to overcome the odds?

The ultimate test of love unfolds in Mary Hoffman's heart-pounding new Stravaganza novel."

My Thoughts

This is the sixth book of the Stravaganza series and for now serves as a temporary final book. I've read posts on the author's blog that she does have plans for more books (there are twelve city-states in Talia so there is a potential for another six books), but for now everything is concluded...which makes me deeply sad because I so love these books.

Okay, so I don't often say this, but I take slight issue with the summary for this book. Why, you ask...well, it says Fortezza in Italy, which is completely untrue. Fortezza is in Talia, the alternate version of Italy that the Stravaganti travel to/from in the books. In fact Fortezza is loosely based on the real Italian city of Lucca. The summary listed on Mary Hoffman's web site is better (in my opinion):

"Laura has a secret -more than one. When she finds a dagger-shaped paperknife in Mortimer Goldsmith's antiques shop, it seems to speak to her. But it has a sharp blade and takes her to Fortezza in Talia, known as the City of Swords. There is a tussle in Fortezza over who will rule the city when the old Prince dies and Laura finds herself caught between factions, one led by the devestatingly attractive Manoush, Ludo..

But there are other Stravaganti to help her both in 16th century Talia and 21st century London. It is just a terrible twist of fate that her heart is on a different side from her duty. Meanwhile, Luciano and Arianna are supposed to be getting married in Bellezza. But Luciano is involved in the Siege of Fortezza and Arianna fears there will be bloodshed at the wedding.

She is right, but whose will it be? The gripping climax to the Stravaganza sequence."

This book nicely ties up some of the strands that have been dangling since the beginning, but still leaves plenty of room just in case the other books become a reality. Personally, I would love to see the full twelve books, one for each city-state, because traveling to each of these places has been so amazing for me. It is made all that more powerful since I have been to Italy. I was only there for a week, but I completely fell in love with the beauty and culture of the country. When I first read the first of the Stravaganza series that takes place in the alternate version of Venice, I knew the basic layout of everything and it made for an incredibly enjoyable read for me. 

In fact, along with a friend of mine from college who also loves these books, we have planned to someday go on a Stravaganza tour of Italy. We are going to travel to each of the cities in Italy that correspond with the alternate versions in the books and then we can take pictures and have book discussions and fully immerse ourselves in this world. Right now that tour stands at six cities, but I'm still hoping that by the time we can actually afford the trip, we'll be able to hit all twelve.

Anyway, in City of Swords we get to delve deeper into Laura's life. She has been mentioned in previous books, but this time we see why she is unhappy, which leads to her becoming a Stravagante. I loved the irony of a self-harmer being taken to Fortezza, the city of swords, and honestly being there helps Laura to see that cutting herself is not the thing to do, when surrounded by the ever-growing war between the di Chimici family and the Stravaganti. This book also brings the Manoush in again, sort of in a more lead role as Laura's romantic interest is Ludo, a young man we met in previous books.

The battle in Fortezza ended basically as I expected it to, but it was learning exactly why Laura was unhappy that made the ending work for me, that and a certain wedding that I had been waiting for for several books now. Again, the wedding was sort of something that could be predicted early on, and it does somewhat satisfy me as the current ending to the series...but seriously, Mary Hoffman, I want more. I know this struggle with the di Chimici and the Stravaganti isn't even close to over yet and it will bug me to not have the issue fully resolved. I sincerely hope you get to write the other books, because I will be waiting for them.

All in all, I guess this book only gets 4.5/5, because of the couple rather predictable elements involved. It is still a great read. 

Here's the Stravaganza official web site: http://www.stravaganza.co.uk/

City of Swords on Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stravaganza-mary-hoffman/1110929989?ean=9781599908427

City of Swords on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Stravaganza-City-Swords-Mary-Hoffman/dp/1599908425/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1355084759&sr=1-1&keywords=city+of+swords

Other Readings

I'm off work today and I work third shift tomorrow, so I'm hoping to be able to read a book or two (maybe three) so I'll be set on my regularly scheduled From the Stacks posts for the rest of the month. All bonus From the Stacks are other books I've read this year and haven't been able to fit in to my review posts. Anyway, I'm off to read...hoping to finish Alchemystic today.

From the Stacks: Baba Yaga's Daughter and Other Tales of the Old Races

Okay, so I was going to hold off on this review until I re-read the Negotiator trilogy that started all of this and then I would review all of them, but I can't wait any longer. Today I'm delving into a world filled with dragons, vampires, selkies, djinn, and gargoyles. This is the world of the Old Races created by C.E. Murphy, and today I am gushing about the amazing collection of stories in Baba Yaga's Daughter and Other Tales of The Old Races.

Baba Yaga's Daughter and Other Tales of The Old Races by C.E. Murphy
ISBN: 978-1-59606-382-2

Summary

"Ancient rivals, worst of friends, best of enemies: dragonlord Janx and master vampire Eliseo Daisani are the threads upon which a tapestry of lives and loves are woven across the centuries. From the coldest Russian nights to the heat of Chicago's greatest fire, nothing brings the immortal adversaries together--or tears them apart--like a woman.

And there is always a woman.

Vanessa Grey has been at Daisani's side for decades but the secrets borne by a witch may be her undoing. Baba Yaga's daughter has plots that are decades in the hatching, but they may only succeed if Margrit Knight, named "the Negotiator" by Daisani and Janx themselves, will work with her. And there are others: the deadliest vampire hunter mankind has ever known, and a woman for whom the Old Races are a wonder to walk away from.

Revisit C.E. Murphy's world of the Old Races with ten stories that delve into the past and future of the two most beloved characters from her urban fantasy trilogy The Negotiator!"

My Thoughts

I purchased this book back in January and was told it would be ready in September. There was a delay and it wasn't printed until October, which meant I didn't get it until November. Despite the wait, this book was well worth it. My copy of Baba Yaga's Daughter is part of a signed limited edition of 1000 copies and I have #72.

This wonderful collection of stories expands on the Old Races universe and shows a lot more of the history between Janx and Daisani. Theirs is a really interesting relationship, almost how you would act towards a sibling. You torment them and challenge them when you can but no one else better even think of doing such a thing. On the other hand, sometimes the two of them seem to be on completely good terms. Getting to see more of their long and complex history was a complete joy to me.

I have been so intrigued by this world since I first read Heart of Stone, the first book in the Negotiator trilogy. Since then I have read and bought every book in the universe (well, and every book C.E. Murphy writes because, honestly, I'm obsessed. She is such a good writer). If I could I would give this book a 10/5. Since that's totally not cool, you can obviously see that it earns a 5/5 from me and I'm anxiously awaiting the next installment in the Old Races universe.

I do not recommend this book for anyone who hasn't read the trilogy, especially considering that the last story takes place after the trilogy and as such, contains spoilers. However, for fans of these books, it is an amazing addition to the collection of C.E. Murphy/Old Races books.

Baba Yaga's Daughter on Subterranean Press ($40, but it is a signed limited edition): http://subterraneanpress.com/store/product_detail/baba_yagas_daughter_and_other_tales_of_the_old_races

Baba Yaga's Daughter on Barnes & Noble ($28.80 hardcover but not signed): http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/baba-yagas-daughter-other-tales-of-the-old-races-c-e-murphy/1113897200?ean=9781596063822

Negotiator trilogy on Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/?series_id=649505

Other Old Races collections on Barnes & Nobles: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/?series_id=813486

C.E. Murphy on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/C.-E.-Murphy/e/B002D656ZI/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1354900498&sr=1-2-ent

Other Readings

For some reason my reading has slowed down the last couple weeks, but I'm going to try and pick up the pace so I can get a few bonus reviews out this month. Also, I don't know how many brand new books I'll be able to review in the next weeks or even months, due to student loan payments. However, I can honestly say that my TBR pile at home is large enough to give me enough books to review for a couple years.