Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Review: The Dark Huntsman


The Dark Huntsman
The Dark Huntsman by Jessica Aspen

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



I expected better honestly. My first glimpse of this book was an excerpt where Logan was going to kill Trina and she was naked with only a knife trying to save herself and her family. When I read that little tidbit I honestly thought I was going to read about a bad-ass witch with guts to stand up for herself no matter what.
I can say my hope of that was dashed about 10% into the book. I kept waiting for her to grow a pair but she never really did. She acquiesced to what Logan wanted when she shouldn't, get pissed at herself and him and then completely go against his wishes at the worst possible moment. She was also pretty weak in the magic department or, at least, her knowledge of what to with her powers was pretty small. The only time she actually surprised me in a good way was when she accessed magic to save them from the baby giant. Apart from that...she was unimpressive. Her actions were impulsive and always self-destroying.
Logan was a little better. He was more determined and strong. He did tend to think about sex in the most inopportune of times though. You'd be in the middle of his description of a landscape and suddenly he was reminding himself of how such landscape looked like Trina's curves or whatever.
And the supporting characters, you ask? Not many. Few and apart. They were rarely talked about and never with much depth. There's also not much of an ending. The Queen is still alive. Haddon is still plotting. The Prince is still missing and Trina's family is still being hunted. But hey Trina and Logan are all lovey dovey now so I guess that's what matters most.



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Monday, December 30, 2013

Review: Under Wraps


Under Wraps
Under Wraps by Hannah Jayne

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



Yeah. Two stars. Maybe I'm being a little harsh or even mean but you can't give me a whiny woman with no self esteem for a main character and expect me to like it. You can't give me a fallen angel for a romantic interest (a very annoying one!) who disappears for 6 months without telling Sophie and expect me to like it. You definitely cannot give a me a hot werewolf guy who really likes our heroine, have him kidnapped and killed out of the blue and expect me like it. I didn't, in case you were wondering. I really didn't. Amazingly enough, even though we never actually saw much of Peter (the hot werewolf), only what Sophie talked of him, I really grew attached to him. He really seemed like a nice guy. One Sophie could depend on unlike Alex (the fallen angel). That one? He really ticked me off. Sophie is pretty whiny and annoying all on her own but near Alex? She's a basket case. It's not even slightly endearing or sweet...it goes straight to desperate, obnoxious and nasty. She acts like she never saw a hot guy before. She drools. I mean, seriously? Oh and to make Sophie look like someone you really want to know? Give her no real social skills, some complex about her body, no sense of danger or self-preservation and no powers. Perfect. So is it really a shocker that she fell in love with a fallen angel who treats like a kid who needs her bottom wiped clean?

So, you ask me, what did I like? I liked the world building and the various creatures talked about. That's it. I continuously expected Sophie to suddenly smart up and do something to actually help save the situation but nope. Never happened.



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Friday, December 27, 2013

Review: Eternal Pleasure


Eternal Pleasure
Eternal Pleasure by Nina Bangs

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Unbelievably better than I thought. After finding out their true soul forms I actually expected them to be a lot more brutal, savage and inhuman then they were. Seems like there was a glimpse of humanity already there for them to reach to. I also liked Ty's and Kelly's relationship. It was amazingly passionate without being overwhelming or obnoxiously emotional. The focus varied between romance and the major plot arc with unnerving balance and cleverness. Made us love every moment between Ty and Kelly while anxiously waiting for them to kick the bad guys skinny buts. Very well done.



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Thursday, December 26, 2013

Review: Fantasy Lover


Fantasy Lover
Fantasy Lover by Sherrilyn Kenyon

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Someone I know compared this book to The Pleasure Slave by Gena Showalter but apart from some minor things...it is nothing like that book. Specially the execution part. While Tristan from The Pleasure Slave was pretty arrogant bordering on obnoxious, in this book Julian, who had way more reasons to be arrogant often wasn't. He was pretty tortured by his past but mostly he was repentant by what he did and even admitted to Grace he deserved some of the punishment. Of course, while Tristan actually deserved to be a little humbled by his curse, Julian didn't leave me with that impression or feeling. Mostly I felt bad for everything he went through with all of his family. Also when Julian was forced to choose between Grace and his world he chose her without a second thought or hesitation.

In truth? Between these two books this one was much better executed. The story arc is more interesting and complex. The characters actually have feelings and take actions that make sense and Julian did seem like a dream come true.



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Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Review: The Pleasure Slave


The Pleasure Slave
The Pleasure Slave by Gena Showalter

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



Unbelievably cheesy. Supposed to present a very alpha male character, presented a stubborn idiot instead. I know I was supposed to be charmed by Tristan's male raw torment but it annoyed me like hell. He abhorred any kind of command, which I completely understood to a point due to his past experiences, but then had no problem whatsoever to give orders to Julia about pretty much anything. It seems to me he should have hesitated to give another human being the same type of treatment Zirra gave him. He also seemed to think of her as some manipulative bitch but then acted like she was weaker and inferior and kept trying to order her to do everything he asked. I don't get it and absolutely do not condone with that type of behaviour towards anyone, even if this is just fiction. It's horrible and, even though it didn't stop me from reading this 'till the end, sure made me lower my rating of the book. Of course the fact that the author felt the need to make Julia travel through time and space literally leaving her family and home for a man didn't exactly made me happy either. After a week of wallowing in bed for her man. Yep. Nice image. I did enjoy Zirra's fate though. That was definitely a nice touch.



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Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Review: Heart of the Dragon


Heart of the Dragon
Heart of the Dragon by Gena Showalter

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Well the end seemed rather abrupt but apart from that it was pretty great. Remarkably witty, sweet and funny romantically speaking. Very action oriented and brutal in the battle scenes. I did allow a couple chuckles to erupt when Darius suddenly went from stone-cold killer to pussy-whipped by Grace. How crazy was that? I also found the final scene with the vampire king to be pretty tame. Two proud kings, sworn enemies, suddenly decide to re-schedule a war simply for a woman? Meh. Not totally believable.



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Friday, December 20, 2013

Review: Genie's Wish


Genie's Wish
Genie's Wish by Susan Laine

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



Some romance, some action-filled scenes Indiana Jones style and sex. Or at least many promises of sex. Turns out it was quite difficult for the three of them to have sex on the run from men with big guns. And no, that was not an euphemism. There really were men with guns. Not much of a plot though and the ultimate reason why I only give it a two star rating.



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Thursday, December 19, 2013

Review: Superbia 3


Superbia 3
Superbia 3 by Bernard Schaffer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Hell of an ending to this amazing trilogy. So many twists and turns! Still brutally honest and painfully addictive. Great work.



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Review: Superbia 2


Superbia 2
Superbia 2 by Bernard Schaffer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Wow that last part was a little harsh. Not that I'm actually sorry for seeing the Chief go...he sure as hell deserved to but it was incredibly cruel and brutal. I loved it. Well played. Very well played.



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Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Review: Superbia


Superbia
Superbia by Bernard Schaffer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Fucking great book. There. I said it. Not my most brilliant piece of mind but it's heartfelt. I don't know how much of this was made up or real and I don't particularly care. It's damn good. The writing is clever, clear and with no bullshit. Not my usual type of book at all. In fact, I was pretty reluctant to read it but I'd had it for a couple months and thought I should give it a try. I don't regret it one bit. I didn't put it down once after I started reading it. It was fun yet scary. Entertaining yet painful. Passionate and yet...brutal. It has real feeling behind all of it. Well done.



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Review: Kissed by a Dark Prince


Kissed by a Dark Prince
Kissed by a Dark Prince by Felicity E. Heaton

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Honestly? Everything I hoped for. The characters were incredibly interesting, witty and mature 100% of the time. The sex scenes were very well written and sexy. They were also few and complemented the romance between the characters instead of being trashy and unnecessary. The plot was pretty creative and fun and amazingly enjoyable. I admit that I'm anxious for the next one. Can't wait to find out what happens next.



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Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Review: Death by the Dozen


Death by the Dozen
Death by the Dozen by Jenn McKinlay

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Here I was getting my hopes up thinking Mel was going to finally dump Joe and nothing. They're okay again. Blah. So annoyingly sweet and romantic. Could it be more bland and uninteresting? Seriously. Of course the mystery was the one thing that kept me hooked. Don't know if it'll be enough though. Get me someone interesting to keep me reading this or I'll be dumping this faster than a nascar car.



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Monday, December 16, 2013

Review: Buttercream Bump Off


Buttercream Bump Off
Buttercream Bump Off by Jenn McKinlay

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Well this book is as annoying as the former book in the romantic department but, in its defence, it did seem to have a better mystery to solve. Also the new detective and Steve's appearance did make my heart beat a little faster. Of course Joe's save of the day put a damper on my wild imagination but just the possibility made everything much more bearable for me. Too bad it never went anywhere. I just cannot make myself be happy for Joe and Mel as a couple. What's up with authors either making their characters too bland or way to bossy and unfeeling? Of course Joe is a mix up of these two cases...so bland I want to whack him upside the head one minute and bossy the next. On the other hand, the detective's tough act won me over in a heartbeat. So did Steve's charm for that matter. Really cute. I also liked Roach a lot. Hm.. bad boys, anyone?



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Review: Sprinkle with Murder


Sprinkle with Murder
Sprinkle with Murder by Jenn McKinlay

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Bright, chirpy and witty with a touch of murder and mystery. Pretty disappointing in the romantic aspect. The girls always choose the obvious guys. It's irritating as hell and seriously dull. So, of course Mel started dating Joe. And Angie is in love with Tate. Could it have been more obnoxiously sweet and dreamy?
What about the lawyer? He seemed interesting and somewhat shady. Bet he would've rocked Mel's world! Not much of a mystery either. About halfway through it was pretty evident who the killer was. The fact that Mel seems to have a problem asking for help is a let down as well, specially considering her lack of detective skills or simply a way to protect herself. Pretty underwhelming considering the blurb.



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Review: Sketch Me If You Can


Sketch Me If You Can
Sketch Me If You Can by Sharon Pape

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Even though this book is good enough to make me curious to read the next installment it isn't enough for me to pay the $7.99 it costs. Meaning? The characters were funny and interesting enough. The story arc is promising and I really would like to find out who killed Drummond more than a century ago. But, and this is a huge but, the story never did develop as I'd hoped. It was pretty underwhelming and flaky. Being a detective, even an artist, she is supposed to have some knowledge and skills. She had none. She constantly undermines her own authority and instincts, she dealt very poorly with threats and even more poorly with her own life, be it romantic or professional. If I had been her captain she wouldn't even carry a gun. She's that unsafe. I also find Rory's relationship with Drummond very lacking and even ridiculous. Same with her other supposed friends like Leah. You would think she would've told Leah her suspicions, yes? Nope. Neither did Leah bothered to try to find out more when Rory acted weird and refuse to tell her. I don't know. Isn't it also weird that she meets a guy in the house a woman was murdered and she never bothered to check him out? Just sayin', I pretty much figured him out to be the killer from his first appearance.



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Friday, December 13, 2013

Review: Charmed & Dangerous


Charmed & Dangerous
Charmed & Dangerous by Candace Havens

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



One of the most kick-ass and witty main characters I've read in quite a while. I did feel the need for more depth regarding the main story arc. Seemed like everything bad that happened did so for not a very good reason at all and the bad guy didn't really made much of an impression either after all those threats and traps. Kind of a let down for sure. I wasn't impressed by Sam either. Their relationship seemed very rushed to me. They spent very little time together and suddenly Sam was saying he loved her. Rushed and unbelievable. I did like Azir a lot. Nice guy and less of a stretch romantically considering all the time she spent protecting him but, alas, she seems to have chosen. Bah. I really hate when a main character chooses the guy right from the start of a series. Always seems to feel pretty fake to me, like they never had enough time to meet properly and she just wants her bed warm or the safest bet.



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Thursday, December 12, 2013

Review: The Good the Bad and the Witchy


The Good the Bad and the Witchy
The Good the Bad and the Witchy by Heather Blake

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Meh. It was pretty much in the same fashion than the previous two books, not bad but not great either. I still like the main character though I would strongly advise her to get some training regarding her PI license. She's very good finding secrets but terrible keeping herself safe. A change might be in order, just in case.
Still not impressed with Nick although I did like finally seeing some of his perfectness marred a little. I keep hoping he wakes up and finally gets interesting but, alas, it doesn't seem to be in the plans. I also keep thinking he's somewhat making me waste my time with him. He's so...bland. Jesus. No excitement or passion. It's disappointing to see such a great main character with someone like him. His only saving grace seems to be his daughter honestly. And this story with Glinda doesn't win any points with me. I think it's just a way to try to make the readers view Nick like some great romantic interest which I really don't currently. In my opinion Darcy needs to get her training as a PI (even if she doesn't particularly intend on using it) and find someone who, not only supports her (something Nick actually does well) but also makes her want to live things to the fullest, to really live. Someone who challenges her (Nick doesn't - he's more like a nice ornament on the wall) and someone not afraid to embrace all her quirks. Until said person shows up or Nick suddenly does a 180º...I'm not impressed.



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Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Review: A Witch Before Dying


A Witch Before Dying
A Witch Before Dying by Heather Blake

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



First of I have to admit I'm not particularly charmed by Nick. It began well with him being oh so mysterious, strong and hot and then suddenly he's simply bland.
He's law enforcement but he never chases criminals or catches them for that matter (Darcy is the one with all the clues and adventures), he barely speaks with her (talks about his daughter do not count for much) and the only thing that shows his interest in Darcy are the heated glances in her direction (this coming from Darcy herself so I don't give much credit). But somehow they finally kissed. Another bland thing to go against him in my idea because that scene did not impress me one bit. Considering this is a wishbook I'm gonna say it like this: I wish I could feel some heat, some passion between these two characters. I don't. I don't even know what they see in each other. Or more importantly what she sees in him. I think she would be better suited with someone who challenged her every single day of her life. Someone adventurous. Someone passionate about life and her. Just someone better than Nick. He seems like a very nice guy and I really do like him but I don't see much when they're together. Secondly, this book is very entertaining but it lacks more action and adventure. It's all very safe and sound. I expected more excitement in at least one part of Darcy's life. It didn't deliver. I was a little disappointed by that.



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Review: It Takes a Witch


It Takes a Witch
It Takes a Witch by Heather Blake

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Not exactly brilliant but definitely entertaining and witty. I love the mysteries and the magic and really love the shop where Darcy works because of its versatility. Not having someone talking about a specific subject over and over is pretty great. It's enough to learn about witchcraft. I do find it odd for it to be so limited though. I was kinda used to witches doing any number of things magically and it's quite a transition to wishcrafters, curecrafters, vaporcrafters and etc but I enjoyed the newness of everything I guess. I did find Missy being Melinda quite peculiar though. And a little creepy.



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Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Review: Dangerous


Dangerous
Dangerous by Jax

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Initially I would have given a three star rating but I liked it a hell of a lot and I admit frankly the additional star I gave is just because this was a well thought out novel with a beginning, a middle and an ending. You may think it's not that remarkable but after reading book after book where these three simple principles seem to be completely ignored you kind of grow fond of them and start to pay attention. I also liked this couple very much. They are both very alpha in their ways of thinking and doing things yet they both feel a deep necessity of curbing those instincts if it means happiness to the other party. Very sweet but most of all very mature. Another thing that seems to be quite hard to find in other novels.

Overall I'm quite satisfied with the time spent around this book. It was incredibly romantic, action-packed, wise and even witty beyond expectations.



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December Kindle Fire



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Monday, December 9, 2013

Review: Watermelon


Watermelon
Watermelon by Marian Keyes

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



I'd have liked to be able to give a 3 star rating but I started thinking how unfair it would be for those books I liked more and just couldn't. Don't get me wrong. It's not horrible or anything even close. It's just annoyingly emotional. Like 90% emotional and not even a good emotional where you can actually follow the characters line of thoughts but one where you get incredibly bewildered and sometimes even angry with the stuff this 30 year old woman manages to unearth. I'm sorry to say but I don't get where she got this stuff from. I didn't see a reason for half her actions and I sure as hell didn't understand her calm acceptance that everything bad that ever happened in her life is her fault and never seems to accept a compliment. I also don't get how a confident woman (supposedly but I never met her) can go from 8 to 80 in ninety seconds without a second thought or explanation. So it made for an increasingly annoying female. I think her two month old daughter actually managed more maturity than her sometimes.
I can admit it was emotionally exhausting and even stressing and I was simply reading it. I'd also like to say I was amazed with Adam but I wasn't. He also seemed to be amazingly charming and mature one minute and a child the next. Of course the bland finish of the book didn't help. I hate those endings where the author can't really justify putting the couple together so she ends just hinting at it. Disgusting and disappointing.

PS: If the main character isn't as annoying as I'm making her, I apologize. It's totally possible that I'm exaggerating. There was a lot of skimming concerning this book because I got bored and jumped through entire paragraphs.



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Friday, December 6, 2013

Review: Tarnished and Torn


Tarnished and Torn
Tarnished and Torn by Juliet Blackwell

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



Dense and an idiot. That's my latest description of Lily. She spent 80% of this book running around interrogating people without going anywhere and the last 20% berating herself about Sailor's absence. In the end he miraculously showed up, said a couple of gruff words, kissed her and she forgave him for leaving. Aidan, as usual, helped her from the beginning and she broke into his office as a reward. Wow.
I have to admit I liked Sailor a lot but that last stunt of leaving without saying a word really took most of his charm for me. Aidan, however, seems to be growing on me. He may not be always forthcoming with information but he has been protecting her for a very long time without any actual rewards from her. And I gotta say I kinda like his way. He's always a surprise. Either quick to temper or mellow as a kitten. We can't really predict anything with him. Maybe Lily should find out once and for all if he's trustworthy. I'd like to see them together. I think he would be able to quench her thirst for trouble without actually restrain her. Besides he always seems to be quite cheerful with her and she seems to need it. She's very balanced but tends to be gloomy when things get tough. It's annoying as hell. He also never did anything for her to be so hard on him. Her father's an idiot and she gave him a chance. Now that's dumb! I wouldn't trust him with my plants! Not that I actually have plants but you get my drift...



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Thursday, December 5, 2013

Review: In a Witch's Wardrobe


In a Witch's Wardrobe
In a Witch's Wardrobe by Juliet Blackwell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Well I'm pissed. First because these mysteries are starting to annoy the crap out of me. Lily gets into situations she has no business with and then involves all her friends too because they have no other choice but to intervene to save her *ss. Secondly because she finally got some happiness with Sailor but, of course, that was the most short-lived romance ever. I did not like that turnaround. I suspected something would happen with Aidan but was it really necessary to be that crappy and idiotic? And now her father is coming to visit her. After four books of not talking about her family. Four books of not knowing that part of Lily's life. That's just super screwed up and more screwed up is her having to ask for Aidan help once again when he can't even be slightly trusted with anything really, no matter how small. I have a sense this is starting to get way too convoluted for my tastes. I have a feeling I'm gonna start to lose interest soon if things don't get better, specially if Lily keeps acting as Aidan's pet. It's annoying and makes her look like a disoriented little child. She needs more backbone regarding him.



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Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Review: Hexes and Hemlines


Hexes and Hemlines
Hexes and Hemlines by Juliet Blackwell

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



I expected a little better for sure. There was an increase of fluff in this book in regards to the previous and it was also pretty frustrating romantically speaking. Max doesn't really do much for me and Aidan is simply not trustworthy enough for him to even be considered. Sailor seems like a nice guy though, in a really torturous kind of way I guess. Can't say I trust him much though considering his debt to Aidan. You never know. Kinda hard to be all romantic in those circumstances.

In regards to the mystery part...it was mostly frustrating as hell. Every single piece of info felt like it was being thorn from the author. Took endless time to connect anything and it didn't even end with a bang. It was almost subdued. Almost unnoticed. Pretty disappointing.



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Review: A Cast-Off Coven


A Cast-Off Coven
A Cast-Off Coven by Juliet Blackwell

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I was kinda afraid of this book. Second installments always tend to be considerably more tedious than the first and sometimes even worse in all aspects but I gotta say this one beat the odds. It blended well with the previous standard and even elevated it a little. The mystery was much more interesting and complex this time around and we got to know our main characters a whole lot better. Some development in the romance front was also apparent but in the end it kinda fell apart all over again so I'm not really what's my opinion on the whole shebang. I do have an opinion on the previous sore point for me in the 1st book, the embellishment of things and the overuse of descriptions in all situations but, don't worry, it's a positive opinion. It was much more subdued this time and I barely noticed it. Made for a much more smooth reading. Very good indeed.



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Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Review: Secondhand Spirits


Secondhand Spirits
Secondhand Spirits by Juliet Blackwell

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Like in most books about vintage clothes, furniture or buildings I have no problem admitting I skimmed every time a detailed description appeared. I just cannot seem to hold attention in those moments. Feels like I'm wading through a very deep river with turbulent waters every single time. I like the mysteries, I like witches and psychics and I even like the occasional demon but I can't really make myself read through flapper dresses, lace and vintage silk. I simply zone out completely.

Now to talk about the characters. I was a little apprehensive about Lily. She came off as someone kind of stuck up with her talk about not letting cowans get close to her, even after saying it was for their own protection. It's also pretty weird to have a 31 year old woman with so many confidence issues and unresolved family matters. I would think she would have at least experimented enough with her powers to know her limits considering she set them herself. But alas, it wouldn't be nearly as interesting if she had any idea right? Fortunately I gave up that assumption on Lily pretty early on. She showed herself to be slightly uncomfortable in her witchy ways but an amazing good person.

Now for the love interests...Yes plural. Aidan never really made much of a blatant offer but I'm thinking it was implied in all the talk about favors and friendship crap. I have to say his perfectness physically really freaks me out. I can't help think he's just a pretty exterior hiding some hideous and perverse guy underneath. Max, however, seems to be the full package. Easy on the eyes yet approachable. Funny, nice and protective enough. I can't help not to feel threatened by his attitude towards everything magic though. I think that needs to either change or he'll eventually get obnoxious because of it. It's a pretty bad place to start a relationship too. Just sayin'. Can you really trust a guy that assumes everything you tell regarding magic is a lie?

Now to dissecting the writing...apart from the flowery way of describing everything (it's such a given in novels that deal in vintage) and the overly use of such descriptions I actually liked it a lot. It was easy to follow, funny to read and captures attention very easily too. Of course the support characters like Bronwyn and Maya helped as well. Beautifully written. Complete and interesting without being imposing or threatening for Lily as a main character. Same with the love interests. I do find myself disappointed for not knowing more about her family though but I'm guessing that's talk for another day.





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Monday, December 2, 2013

Review: Possess


Possess
Possess by Gretchen McNeil

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Re-read. For the 3rd time. Amazingly enough I didn't remember much about this book. I had some vague idea about liking it a lot but not much about either the plot or the characters. Which is kind of weird because like I said before I liked it a whole lot. Unlike other YA's this book was pretty subdued regarding angst-ridden teenagers, for example. In fact, Bridget reacts and behaves pretty good for a teenager. I think the most teenager-ish behavior she presents in the whole book is that argument with her mother and the slamming door. In fact nothing else comes to mind and trust me I get pretty annoyed with that kind of thing so I would notice it right away.

The only thing I didn't particularly like in this book was the ending. First I thought her mother needed to know everything. Not only because it regarded her daughter but also because it regarded her husband and son and I'm guessing also her grandchildren and so on and so on. I also expected something to be done regarding Alexa and her family, specifically her father who helped Monsignor kidnap Sammy. It seems kinda idiotic to leave those two issues unadressed because they are pretty vital in the grand scheme of things. Just sayin'... What stops Hugh from getting closer to Annie and mess up her head against Bridget?





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Sunday, December 1, 2013

Review: The Hunger Games


The Hunger Games
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



It was all I was hoping for after I saw the movie and I'm sorry but after seeing the movie a couple times I have no choice but to make comparisons. I deeply apologize Miss Collins.
There were a couple dissonant voices after the release of said movie commenting there were a couple of different things between them and that the book was much better...and it was. I'll give you that. The book, for one, it was much more emotional and complete. Although I got a little bored with Katniss a couple of times I have to admit she's one hell of a heroine. That girl may not know much about love but she surely knows a lot about everything else and after realizing she literally needed all of it to survive on a day-to-day basis? She's brilliant that's what she is. I don't think we get to actually see this in the movie. There's simply not enough time or reason for it but boy did I notice it in the book. So many decisions that could've led to her death. I am amazed.

And so we remember Peeta. That's where things get even more awkward and different from the movie. We pretty much notice Peeta from the start in the movie. He's simply there. In the book he was pretty much ignored and we don't really notice him until he's right on top of us (not literally thank God) 'cause Katniss didn't either. Only after the announcement about couples is she aware of him. So we get a pretty narrowed view of things in there because of her but I guess it's okay because she's the one that matters. And when Peeta starts to matter to her, he matters to us too so it's pretty horrible what actually happens in the book but not in the movie. Then again, I can't say I would've liked seeing him bleeding to death and lose a leg which amazingly enough didn't faze me all that much when I read it. What did annoy me was the whole emotional scene about what Katniss felt or not. More important things no? She did save your life a couple times. Anyway I probably would have reacted the same way, so I can't really fault him but you get my point. It's about survival Peeta.

*You probably understand this is an emotional reaction to this book, yes? I will write a more complete one when I get off my high over it.*



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Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Review: Scrap Metal


Scrap Metal
Scrap Metal by Harper Fox

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Oh how I love a man speaking Welsh. For me, that's half the job. Of course if you add a couple of good characters, a creative plot and a sprinkle of romance...that'll give you Scrap Metal by Harper Fox. Brilliant writing. I got a little lost in some technicalities about the farm, the weather and how to treat sheep but apart from that it was all I hoped for. There was a even a small bit of action with a fistfight and a kidnapping. I also gotta say my heart stopped a little with Harry's death. I loved the old sod. He was a gruff old man full of judgements but I just couldn't help it. So very sorry he died. I sure as f*ck would've loved to have read his reaction to the contracted killer. Man. I think the guy would have pied his pants first glance. Now back on subject. The story was great. I always suspected Cam had only witnessed the murder and only told he had done it because he was wreaked with guilt and wow, I loved how Nic handled everything. He never once questioned his love. You could actually see he was ready to accept Cam's fault and simply live with it. They were perfect for each other and I'm glad everything ended well. They seriously deserved it. Cute HEA without being cheesy or unreal.



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Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Review: Acrobat


Acrobat
Acrobat by Mary Calmes

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I gotta say I was a little scared when suddenly they started talking about "submitting" and "owning me" in the middle of the novel but it was just a scare. Nothing with ropes, cuffs or leashes ever came into picture. Thank you. Apart from that...it was very good. I loved both Dreo and Nate immensely. We got to know them pretty well. Nate more so than Dreo but I guess that was kind of expected considering the man was part of the mob. Nevertheless, he sure as hell expressed more feeling than either Nate's ex-boyfriends or hook-ups (yes I'm talking about Sean and Duncan). Sean was an *ss. That's the impression he gave me and Duncan didn't seem much better, although he did seem to be trying at the end. Now the other characters? They were great. Much more than simply support. Really alive and fun and important. I loved Melissa. She was a great ex-wife let me tell you. I also loved the plot and consequent execution. I was not disappointed. Very well written and creative and witty. Glad I gave this one a chance. Very interesting and enjoyable. Perfect HEA. Not completely lame.



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Review: The Prince Who Never Smiled


The Prince Who Never Smiled
The Prince Who Never Smiled by Pepper Espinoza

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



Not bad. I expected a little of politics thrown in 'cause, you know, it's a book about a Monarchy but it was quite calm except for the Queen's death. I liked it in general but it seemed mostly below expectations. We didn't get to know much about the characters, their tastes, their feelings...just enough to tell the story not nearly enough to develop. Kinda disappointed.



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Monday, November 25, 2013

Review: My Only Home


My Only Home
My Only Home by Pepper Espinoza

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



I liked the plot immediately. It seemed to be very sweet and romantic. Then I started reading..and I gotta say I was a little worried with the execution. It really seemed like each of them had built a life without the other and neither was really willing to give it up for the other. I was starting to think it was one of those sad stories where we know they love each other like crazy but can't really be together. A lot of people will probably tell me sometimes things don't work out and those books are good too and all that but I don't like them. I like HEAs. Real life is messed up enough. I need HEAs. They make me happy. So I'm happy I got one in this book too. Seemed like my worries were unfounded. They managed to find a way to be together and I couldn't be happier for them. Why don't I give it a better rating? 'Cause it's a clichéd story. 'Cause even though I was wishing for a good ending I never really connected with either character. 'Cause I wasn't surprised by anything that happened. 'Cause it's not overwhelmingly good. It was nice and enjoyable and not a waste of my time but I've read better.



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Saturday, November 23, 2013

Review: The Trap


The Trap
The Trap by Indigo Wren

My rating: 1 of 5 stars



I didn't finish this. I doubt I even made it to 10% of this book. Why? First I'm super pissed by not having being informed it was a Domination book. There's absolutely nothing that even hints at it.
I stopped when I realized the kidnapping talked about in the blurb wasn't a euphemism. That a guy actually thought he had every right to kidnap another guy out of the blue because they had been college roommates and he suspected his friend left him because he fell in love with him. That's right. He kidnapped his friend. Because he's in love. Because he feels like his friend made a huge mistake when he left him. Apparently this gives him the right to lure his friend to his island and trap him there for a month with no outside contact whatsoever. Apparently this gives him the right to f*ck with his friend's life.
I, on the other hand, do not find this OK. I find this completely ridiculous and the main reason why some people keep thinking getting the sh*t beat out of them for jealousy is romantic. Or that getting raped is the victims fault. Want to know my HEA for this book? Ethan getting is ass thrown in jail for kidnapping and coercion and David being finally at peace.





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Review: Out of My Mind


Out of My Mind
Out of My Mind by M.L. Rhodes

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



Primarily I think I would've liked to have seen a better conclusion to Raff's fears. That's my main complaint in this book. It felt rushed. One week of no news of him and a pillow talk will not make everything suddenly alright. I also would've expected them to deal with things between each other a little better. Four years of friendship and they suffered through their doubts alone? Some friendship.
Also I don't know many cops but I reckon they always seem to have that feeling of power and safety to them. I didn't see it here. In either character. If that info hadn't been disclosed even before the start of this book I wouldn't have known it. They acted mostly like frightened children, each for their own reasons of course, but children nonetheless. No cop feeling in this one. I also can't exactly see a guy with no sexual experience with another guy to advance with things so casually physically. He only seemed to panic afterwards and it's weird he didn't stop before going that far. I would have expected some reticence before action. Then again I'm a woman. Maybe men only freak when it involves feelings...Ok reading.



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Friday, November 22, 2013

Review: A Better Man


A Better Man
A Better Man by Jaime Reese

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Better than most m/m romances I've read lately. There was a lot of emotion expressed without being overwhelming or angst ridden and it wasn't insta-love for Matt and Julian either. They clearly liked each other from the start but they took the time to properly know each other and fall in love. I gotta say my only problem with this book was the constant presence of Matt's mother. I'm sorry to say I wouldn't have minded for him to tell her to get lost from the beginning. She was a true bitch who clearly cared more about appearances than her children and I think the time Matt spent thinking and talking with her was a complete waste of time. In my opinion he should have stood up to her a long time ago instead of letting her rule his life and happiness for so long. Apart from that woman's presence however I truly enjoyed everything. Matt was nothing like I actually expected him to be after finding out he was an ex-con...honestly? I thought he was going to be a violent hard-ass man with a lot of issues to get through. Instead he proved to be a sweet heart who cared a lot about everyone around him (even his idiotic mom). Julian was also a big surprise. Attentive, sweet and quite romantic for a big guy. Just knows how much we judge people without reason to. Perfect HEA.



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Review: The White Knight


The White Knight
The White Knight by Josh Lanyon

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



It was okay. No. It was good. I kept thinking I was screwed because it was a sequel to another book I hadn't read and it was going to be confusing and weird but it wasn't. Not for me. I realized right out of the bat that there was a lot of history between the two main characters and I sensed it would have been better if I had read the first book but it was enjoyable just the same. The jumps between time frames were pretty well written and actually helped understand everything better. They were cute together and am glad they realized it was a mistake to be separate any longer. Nice twist with the Larry crap. Nice HEA. Good read.



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Review: Physical Therapy


Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy by Carol Lynne

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



Well...for reading it alone (like I did) it's kind of overwhelming. There's no easy start into the story, you just kind of get dumped in the middle of everything and try to swim safely to the shore. As a part of the series however I'm guessing it's easier to understand. The doctors have probably been mentioned in the previous books and Matt seemed to have arrived to town six months before this book so it comes to reason they already had some experience as friends even though we don't actually see it here. I can honestly tell you that independently of all that I still enjoyed reading it a lot. It's very sexy and hot. The three of them seemed to get along incredibly well and my only only objection is how Isaac seemed to be the focus sexually while Sam was only there for the emotional hang-ups. Almost like each had their roles defined since the start and there was no point in straying. I didn't particularly found that fair and both Sam and Isaac actually seem to notice it when they're talking about one of them going to see Matt in Kansas. However neither of them seems to want to try to change it. And it's never spoken again. It seemed to me like it was glossed over just so they'd have a pretty HEA with no loose ends.



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Thursday, November 21, 2013

Review: The One That Got Away


The One That Got Away
The One That Got Away by Rhianne Aile

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Amazing read. David and Trace's relationship evolved from a deep friendship and it was very clear from the start how much each meant to the other. There's no threesome, no ex-boyfriends or anything to cripple their love fest. Everything was pretty smooth from the very start and very adorable to read. Very nice indeed. Amazingly romantic and sweet. Nice characters and cute couple. One of those romances that don't require much thought or persuasion. Perfect ending. Deeply enjoyable.



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Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Review: And Call Me in the Morning


And Call Me in the Morning
And Call Me in the Morning by Willa Okati

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



A little too dramatic for my tastes with that scene on the phone with Dr. Kazaran (or whatever) but the rest was pretty sweet and romantic and calm. They never doubted their friendship, never particularly freaked about anything or let fear rule their actions except, like I said before, for that final part from Zane but I think that was mostly written just to finish with a bang. I really enjoyed their story and mostly preferred their easy acceptance of everything to those angst ridden moments honestly. They seemed perfect for each other and one could really notice it in their small gestures towards one another. Super sweet. Nice read. No stress.



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Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Review: Handyman


Handyman
Handyman by Claire Thompson

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Beautiful tale of discovery. Of feelings and sexuality. Of love and companionship. Of family and friends. Nice read.
Will was amazingly sweet towards Jack from the start and Jack was so brave trying to get out of his comfort zone after a lifetime of repressed joy. They really did seem like teenagers from time to time. Super insecure. Completely afraid to become vulnerable in front of each other. Super cute. I really enjoyed watching them together. They were so adorable (probably weird saying this regarding a 40 year-old man right? It's true though). I specifically enjoyed their fumbling through things. Nothing is perfect when emotions are the heart of things and it was funny to read how panicked they became every time something new came up. I have to admit I laughed a couple times. Sorry.



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Monday, November 18, 2013

Review: Drunk Text


Drunk Text
Drunk Text by seventhswan

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Not bad actually considering it's an amateur book. The writing is surprisingly good with only a couple errors (not nearly enough to put me off the story) and the plot certainly started very creatively with that text. I was a little thrown off by Gunnar, 'cause he sure seemed like a major douche, but he proved to be quite interesting as a character. Also loved Vance, Cara and Jon. They made for good support characters while also existing beyond helping Gunnar and his major crisis of existence. Good sex scenes as well. Nice romantic ending. Very enjoyable.

*Available for free reading here*



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Review: Str8te Boys


Str8te Boys
Str8te Boys by Evangeline Anderson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Quite short but a helluva of fun. Really hot and sexy. Great characters. Awesome story. Loved it.



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Review: Faith & Fidelity


Faith & Fidelity
Faith & Fidelity by Tere Michaels

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Okay...that was slightly abrupt. I mean, I liked it a lot. I was really starting to think "just please let them be together without any more problems. They truly deserve some happiness" when the end rolled up so I really think it was time and I'm happy they finally got their HEA but it was kind of out of the blue for me. I was expecting some more development, I don't know, that dreaded discussion with the in-laws for example. Elena to actually grow a pair and support Evan and Matt. The kids to make more questions or for us to be cleared on what Matt decided to do with his life besides college and a new house. I did enjoy it immensely though. I really liked Evan and Matt. Mostly Matt. I was also intrigued with James. I wonder if there's a book with him..

Anyway. Despite all the sad feeling that appears constantly in this book, this is mostly about love, friendship and family. Quite upbeat if you really let yourself think about it. Time well spent most definitely.



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Friday, November 15, 2013

Review: Horn Gate


Horn Gate
Horn Gate by Damon Suede

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



It wasn't bad but I sure as hell (pun intended) expected better. The only reason I even give it a three star is because, at least, it was a short book and didn't torture me for long. Don't get me wrong...the plot is sound and creative. I liked the characters, even though we don't actually get to meet any of them well enough but I am sorry I read it . Now I have an unfinished story in more ways than one without a chance to end it. Not really. This seems like a rough draft of a book instead and I feel slightly cheated. I would've been seriously pissed if I'd paid for it. All the buzz surrounding this because of Bad Idea and it falls short. Way short. Talk about vague. Nothing is explained. You're just dropped in the middle. Isaac makes some stupid decisions without actually considering the consequences or what exactly he is doing and we're thrown for a loop trying to cope with such idiocy. And...I'm gonna stop criticizing because otherwise I'll feel compelled to lower the rating. To think I loved Hot Head.



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Review: Bad Idea


Bad Idea
Bad Idea by Damon Suede

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



I think maybe they went through a lot of pain unnecessarily. Trip actually managed to hurt Silas almost irrevocably and screw it up for good. Thankfully he woke up before the damage got too big to clean but it was still a dumb move. I can't believe he didn't find out Cliff's undermining lies before too late. He should've left him and his company even before Silas showed up and I'm not saying this for some romantic idea of following your dreams but because it was obvious he had
a lot of talent and he owed it to himself (not his boyfriend) to try taking things further. Even if he didn't let himself leave Cliff and the safe job ('cause we all got bills to pay and sometimes just have to play smart) he certainly should've tried pitching his idea for Scratch on the side. Playing it safe but not completely isolated.

I did enjoyed it some. I liked Trip and Silas a lot. They were very adorably cute together. I didn't even mind Trip's neurotic personality. It think it actually added to his appeal. Not everyone could deal with someone like that and the fact that Silas saw it from the beginning and didn't run like hell was on his heels also added to his personality. My main problems were: the comic book talks and the flow of the story. The flow of the story was pretty skewed and totally messed my bubble. I kept having to interrupt to not feel overwhelmed. It felt more like a work in progress than a finished novel. I expected something better fleshed out, maybe a little more thought out and even less boring. Yes. I actually thought some parts were completely boring. I got lost a lot. I skimmed entire paragraphs. The works. I like comic books. I don't know much about them or own many but I like them just on principle. Who doesn't love a good story? But was it really necessary so many pages describing everything ad nauseum? And the ending? After so much angst and doubt...an apology and a kiss and everything gets peachy? Wow. That was...anti-climatic if you ask me. Also I don't particularly mind a scrawny guy "dominating" a beefy one because I hate clichés but shouldn't they have...I don't know. Kept an open mind? Switch or at least try to? I didn't particularly felt they achieved all their potential in intimacy. They were both supposed to play certain roles and pretty much acted those roles without wavereing as if just a small slight detour could undermine all that careful planning of Trip being the skinny top and Silas the muscled bottom. I'm pretty sure Trip actually thought he wouldn't mind bottoming when they hadn't found out about their predilections in bed yet. He said he would do it just to be with Silas and then we never actually get to see any of it. I'm not saying it had to work. Just that they should've tried for each other. It was just for show and, for me, it was a pretty big neon sign saying: FAKE. I mean, theoretically I loved them...they were very good to each other when they wanted to and they really did try to make it work from the start but in practice? They appeared cardboard. Pretty to look at but no real content. Not really.



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Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Review: Hot Head


Hot Head
Hot Head by Damon Suede

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Very good. I mean I don't think anyone actually believed in this plot because I'm pretty sure a heterosexual male wouldn't suddenly wake up one day and decide he wanted to do gay porn with his best friend no matter the money problems he had. If he really was straight then he would try more "conventional" porn before trying the gay industry I think. So, basically, that little piece of info pretty much informed me right on that Dante must've felt something for Griff to do it.
Knowing this...the rest was all just fluff and puff for me. Still great though. I loved knowing them, their fears and hopes, their families and friends. The job. Their friendship and their love for one another even before fully acknowledging their lust and passion. I really connected with them both and enjoyed it very much. I was a little surprised by Dante's possessiveness though...he always seemed pretty laid back and became jealous out of the blue. Although I can't say I didn't secretly cheered for it. Griff became much more confident after that. He really started to acknowledge his own worth. Some jump from the shy man who blushed at everything! And they had their little happy ending! How perfect was that?



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