Tuesday, 31 March 2015

Hellbender - Book Review


Hellbender (Fangborn #3)
by Dana Cameron


What is it about:
I-Day is near at hand, and soon the Fangborn will reveal themselves to humankind. As a member of this secretive race of werewolves, vampires, and oracles, will archaeologist Zoe Miller be prepared?

Still grappling with the newfound powers she gained after opening Pandora’s box, Zoe shares the responsibility of protecting “Normal” humans. Having long preferred to keep to the shadows, she knows the pending revelation of the Fangborn will set the world on fire. With Fangborn enemies in the Order of Nicomedia forcing their hand, Zoe and her supernatural Family have no choice but to step into the spotlight. But that decision has garnered the attention of the powerful and otherworldly beings known as the Makers. They claim to have created the Fangborn—not as saviors, but as predators. And it seems they have their own plans for Zoe…and for the fate of all the Fangborn.

Filled with stunning twists, Hellbender takes the Fangborn series to a thrilling new dimension.


What did I think of it:
This series is so awesome!

The last book ended on quite a cliffhanger, so I was thrilled when I got my trotters on an early copy of Hellbender for review.

The story continues where Pack of Strays left off and soon Zoe is in the middle of action and danger again. She has quite a lot on her plate this time: The Makers are contacting Zoe, forcing her to make decisions she might not be ready for.

I love how Zoe stays so down to earth and caring, even with all the power that is thrown her way. She keeps trying to do what she thinks is right. She manages to gather people (and creatures) around her who help her stay strong and on course.

The romance in this book is mostly on a back burner - there's so much going on in Zoe's life, it would be a surprise if she managed to fit in a passionate affair - but there are still some scenes between Zoe and her two love interests. I can tell you I'm still hoping that Zoe will find happiness with Adam.

The events and action in this book feel epic and world changing. Often I lose my interest when stories take the DOOM! route, but Cameron manages to make me believe in the unfolding events, and care. I was rooting for Zoe and her allies to survive and safe the day.

And the ending: Argh! I need the next book! I want to know what's next.

You can bet I'll be stalking Dana Cameron's website for news on the next book. In the mean time I'll be giving her Emma Fielding series a try.

Why should you read it:
It's an awesome, action packed Urban Fantasy read


buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery

Monday, 30 March 2015

World folklore and the Fangborn - Guest Post by Dana Cameron + Giveaway

Today a guest post by Dana Cameron, the author of the awesome Fangborn series.


*

World folklore and the Fangborn

I use a lot of real-world folklore and mythology in Seven Kinds of Hell, Pack of Strays, Hellbender, and the Fangborn short stories, so I can explain how my heroic werewolves, vampires, and oracles have influenced humanity from behind the scenes for as long as there's been...well, for as long as there's been humanity to protect and stories to tell. Since every culture has stories about shapeshifters, I figured that indicated something about the prevalence of the Fangborn and their exploits. Plus, it's fun to make the most of my anthropology and archaeology training, and explore things I find intriguing.

One of the problems I initially encountered was that in a lot of the European shapeshifter stories, the shapeshifters are really terrible creatures. How can my Fangborn be the good guys, when so many European stories about werewolves and vampires involve predation, soulless carnage, and damnation? And how could I reconcile the facts that dragons are often considered emblems of evil in the West and symbols of strength, fertility, and order in the East?

I don't draw from any one tradition. If I happen across a cool image or a description of a supernatural creature in a museum, it goes into my Fangborn folder. I don't try to reconcile all the world's cultures either. For one thing, I'm writing fiction, not a scholarly work. For another, it can't be done: Even if there are similarities between two or three (or a dozen or two dozen) traditions, that's not necessarily proof that there is a real-world cultural connection. In my business as an academic archaeologist, I had to be very careful to demonstrate with a lot of proof of every sort, that similarities were actually direct cultural connections. How do I make this work in my novels and short stories?


**
It's easy: I behave like a bad academic. I do all the wrong things. I pick whatever suits my fancy and use that, figuring, if I think it's neat, the reader will think so too. I hand-wave about the history, and then...don't try to formulate any hypotheses. I get back into the story. So Zoe, my protagonist, sees these artifacts and observes that a snake or wolf may not indicate that the Fangborn were too visible in their tracking of evil, and found their way into local folklore. Or if she sees a contradiction, she muses that perhaps it was part of their camouflage: Who wants to go looking for a bloodthirsty creature that will tear you're throat out? This bad publicity gives the Fangborn a smoke-screen to hide behind, while they fight evil in secret.

This is getting to have it both ways. You can do that in fiction.
On the other hand, I do make my descriptions about what exists in the real world as accurate as possible, so the reader will get into the story. If I use an artifact, I research it. If I use a character from Greek (like Pandora's Box or Heracles), Norse (Jörmungandr, the Midgard serpent), Japanese (yokai), or Maya traditions, I'll do the research (I'm still a good academic in that respect!).

In fiction, you tell the truth, as best you can, all of the time. In fantastic fiction, you do this so that at the moments you need to make something up, you will have convinced the reader that your creatures are not only possible, but believable.

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* = The statue with the bib is an Inari-Fox or kitsune, a messenger or symbol of Inari. Notice there is candy beneath him, as an offering!
** = The snake is a detail from a 2nd c AD statue of Antinonus, Hadrian's lover. Clearly, a vampire!


---------------------


About Dana Cameron:
Dana Cameron can't help mixing in a little history into her fiction. Drawing from her expertise in archaeology, Dana's work (including traditional mystery, noir, urban fantasy, historical fiction, and thrillers) has won multiple Agatha, Anthony, and Macavity Awards and earned an Edgar Award nomination. Her third Fangborn novel, Hellbender, will be published in March 2015 by 47North. Her most recent Fangborn short story is a Sherlockian pastiche; "The Curious Case of Miss Amelia Vernet.” Her story, "The Sun, The Moon, and The Stars," featuring Pam Ravenscroft from Charlaine Harris's acclaimed Sookie Stackhouse mysteries, appears in Dead But Not Forgotten: Stories from the World of Sookie Stackhouse.
www.danacameron.com



About Hellbender:
I-Day is near at hand, and soon the Fangborn will reveal themselves to humankind. As a member of this secretive race of werewolves, vampires, and oracles, will archaeologist Zoe Miller be prepared?

Still grappling with the newfound powers she gained after opening Pandora’s box, Zoe shares the responsibility of protecting “Normal” humans. Having long preferred to keep to the shadows, she knows the pending revelation of the Fangborn will set the world on fire. With Fangborn enemies in the Order of Nicomedia forcing their hand, Zoe and her supernatural Family have no choice but to step into the spotlight. But that decision has garnered the attention of the powerful and otherworldly beings known as the Makers. They claim to have created the Fangborn—not as saviors, but as predators. And it seems they have their own plans for Zoe…and for the fate of all the Fangborn.

Filled with stunning twists, Hellbender takes the Fangborn series to a thrilling new dimension.


Buy from Amazon

---------------------

Giveaway:

Dana Cameron kindly provided me with a signed copy of Hellbender and some bookmarks for one of my readers!

For a chance to win this book:
- Leave a comment for Dana on this post
- Leave a way for me to contact you
- Do so before April 12, 2015
- Open internationally to anyone who's legally allowed to enter.

Winner is Erin!

(Pearls Cast Before a McPig is not responsible for things getting lost in the mail.)

Friday, 27 March 2015

Pride Mates - Book Review by Voodoo Bride


Pride Mates (Shifters Unbound #1)
by Jennifer Ashley


What is it about:
Collared and controlled, Shifters are outcast from humanity, forced to live in Shiftertowns. But waiting within are passions that no Collar can contain.

Like most Shifters, Liam Morrissey has learned that trusting humans leads to no good. But when a beautiful attorney enters Shiftertown alone, Liam's alpha nature leaves him no choice but to offer his protection.

Tasked with defending a Shifter accused of murder, attorney Kim Fraser is completely out of her depth in the mysterious world of Shifters. To prove her client's innocence, Kim will need the help of someone on the inside, even though relying on Liam goes against everything society says about Shifters.

And when an un-Collared Shifter threatens both Kim and Liam, the young attorney will have to learn to trust her unlikely protector and face the passion she feels for a man who can't be tamed.


What did Voodoo Bride think of it:
This is a nice read.

I will confess I read this right after I read a book that totally blew me away, so that might be why this was just a nice read for me.

I must say I didn't feel the attraction between Kim and Liam. There was a spark missing for me. It made it hard to lose myself in the romance. The action part of the story was a bit wobbly in its setup as well I thought.

Still I really liked the writing and the story overall was nice enough to keep me entertained. I'm not sure if I would pick up another book in this series though. The next book is about one of the side characters from this book, and I can't say I thought he was interesting enough to want to read his story.

I might try something else by Jennifer Ashley if I run into it though.

Why should you read it:
It's an enjoyable Paranormal Romance


buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery

Thursday, 26 March 2015

On McPig's Wishlist - Toads and Diamands

An original sounding retelling of one of my favorite fairytales. It's not available anymore on bookdepository though, so chances of me getting my trotters on this book are low.


Toads and Diamonds
by Heather Tomlinson


Diribani has come to the village well to get water for her family's scant meal of curry and rice. She never expected to meet a goddess there. Yet she is granted a remarkable gift: Flowers and precious jewels drop from her lips whenever she speaks.

It seems only right to Tana that the goddess judged her kind, lovely stepsister worthy of such riches. And when she encounters the goddess, she is not surprised to find herself speaking snakes and toads as a reward.

Blessings and curses are never so clear as they might seem, however. Diribani’s newfound wealth brings her a prince—and an attempt on her life. Tana is chased out of the village because the province's governor fears snakes, yet thousands are dying of a plague spread by rats. As the sisters' fates hang in the balance, each struggles to understand her gift. Will it bring her wisdom, good fortune, love . . . or death?



Wednesday, 25 March 2015

Dark Alchemy - Book Review


Dark Alchemy
by Laura Bickle


What is it about:
Geologist Petra Dee arrives in Wyoming looking for clues to her father's disappearance years before. What she finds instead is Temperance, a dying Western town with a gold rush past and a meth-infested present. But under the town's dust and quiet, an old power is shifting.

When bodies start turning up - desiccated and twisted skeletons that Petra can't scientifically explain - her investigations land her in the middle of a covert war between the town's most powerful interests. Petra's father wasn't the only one searching for the alchemical secrets of Temperance, and those still looking are now ready to kill.

Armed with nothing but shaky alliances, a pair of antique guns, and a relic she doesn't understand, the only thing Petra knows for sure is that she and her coyote sidekick are going to have to move fast, or die next.


What did I think of it:
I'm a big fan of Laura Bickle, so I was very excited when I got the opportunity to read an ARC of Dark Alchemy.

And this book is so good!

Petra is someone who's had some hard blows dealt to her by life, and hopes to find some peace in Temperance. Looking for her father is part of trying to get her life back under control.

Instead of finding peace she's thrown into chaos though.

I loved Petra. She's a survivor. She also is someone who cares about others more than herself, and that makes her a bit rash at times. Throwing herself in danger to help others. She even befriends a coyote, who soon becomes her sidekick, helping her in ways that go beyond the loyalty of an ordinary pet.

And then there's Gabe.

Gabe is one of those people who Petra tries to help, but he's not as human as Petra thinks he is. He is mysterious, a bit creepy, and more than intriguing. Some parts of this story are told through his eyes, making you understand a little of what he is and what he feels. I absolutely loved Gabe from the start.

I loved the mood of this book. It's dark and intense, as is the story. I was totally engrossed in it and had a hard time putting it down. I wanted to keep reading and find out if Petra would conquer the ghost of her past, and would uncover the secrets of Temperance.

This book made me fear for the lives of my favorite characters, it gave me chills, and it made me cry. It's a very intense and beautiful read.

This is most probably a standalone, but I hope Laura Bickle will write more books set in this world, because I want more.

Why should you read it:
It's a beautifully dark read.


Find buy links here

Tuesday, 24 March 2015

Shiny Things - Guest Post by Laura Bickle




Birds love shiny things.

Crows and ravens, especially. There was a recent story in the news about a little girl who had been feeding crows, and the crows began bringing her gifts: bits of wire, broken earrings, screws, buttons, and little glass gems. These must have been very precious to the crows, but they were willing to make offerings to the little girl who kept them well fed.

Ravens retrieve a lot of unusual stuff in my new book, DARK ALCHEMY. As the familiars for a group of undead cowboys, the Hanged Men, they act as spies, retrieving shiny bits of information for their keepers. They hoard a great deal of useful clues about the goings-on around the ranch: the location of buried bodies, the paths that trespassers take, and portents of supernatural danger. They guard the Alchemical Tree of Life, the Lunaria. In the evenings, when they come home to roost, the tree is covered in chattering black leaves.

And the ravens of the Hanged Men are also special in another way – they are part of the Hanged Men. Gabriel, their leader, can parse of bits of his body and consciousness into a bird. That bird can then escape danger, winging up into the blue sky. He’ll be without a hand or a foot until the raven comes back, but he can partition his consciousness into dozens of birds…all of them searching for precious bits of intelligence about the lost secrets of alchemy that are buried in this land.

A bird is never what he seems. His black eyes take in the world beneath him, searching for shiny things. What he finds may be as useless as a bottle cap, or it might be the key to unlocking the secret of eternal life.

------------

Laura Bickle grew up in rural Ohio, reading entirely too many comic books out loud to her favorite Wonder Woman doll. After graduating with an MA in Sociology – Criminology from Ohio State University and an MLIS in Library Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, she patrolled the stacks at the public library and worked with data systems in criminal justice. She now dreams up stories about the monsters under the stairs, also writing contemporary fantasy novels under the name Alayna Williams.

Her most recent book is DARK ALCHEMY, described as “Stephen King’s The Gunslinger meets Breaking Bad.” The latest updates on her work are available at www.laurabickle.com.


Dark Alchemy releases today!
Find buy links and read more about Dark Alchemy here


Monday, 23 March 2015

Under Nameless Stars - Book Review


Under Nameless Stars (Zenn Scarlett #2)
by Christian Schoon


What is it about:
Zenn Scarlett’s novice year of exoveterinarian training on Mars isn’t quite going to plan…

After barely surviving a plot to destroy her school and its menagerie of alien patients, could things at the Ciscan cloister get any worse? Yes. Yes they could: Zenn’s absent father Warra Scarlett has suddenly ceased all communication with her. Desperate to learn what’s become of him, Zenn stows away aboard the Helen of Troy, a starliner powered by one of the immense, dimension-jumping beasts known as Indra.

With her is Liam Tucker, a towner boy who is either very fond of her, very dangerous to her, or both. On the verge of learning the truth about her dad, Zenn’s quest suddenly catapults her and Liam thousands of light years beyond known space, and into the dark heart of a monstrous conspiracy. Braving a gauntlet of lethal environments and unearthly life forms, her courage and exovet skills will now be tested as never before.

With the fate of entire worlds hanging in the balance, Zenn is racing headlong into trouble… again.


What did I think of it:
After reading Stone in the Sky I was in the mood for more Science Fiction, and remembered I had Under Nameless Stars, the sequel to Zenn Scarlett, somewhere in my TBR pile.

And this is a very entertaining read.

There are lots of new cool alien species in this book, and although I missed my favorite character from the first book, I fell in love with some of the new characters. I liked the world building and the overall plot as well.

The action seemed a bit unbalanced I will confess. The first part of the book is slow, with Zenn making friends, talking to people and trying to stay out of trouble. Then the action kicks in and you get danger, piled on top of intrigue, on top of danger.

I also wondered why Liam was added to the story. He is placed firmly on the backseat and didn't really seem necessary for the plot. Not that I minded, because I didn't much like him.

Those things aside this is a fun and entertaining read, and I very much enjoyed it. I will keep an eye out for other books by Schoon.

Why should you read it:
It's an enjoyable YA SciFi read.


buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery

Friday, 20 March 2015

Tempest Rising - Book Review


Tempest Rising (Jane True #1)
by Nicole Peeler


What is it about:
Living in small town Rockabill, Maine, Jane True always knew she didn't quite fit in with so-called normal society. During her nightly, clandestine swim in the freezing winter ocean, a grisly find leads Jane to startling revelations about her heritage: she is only half-human.

Now, Jane must enter a world filled with supernatural creatures alternatively terrifying, beautiful, and deadly- all of which perfectly describe her new "friend," Ryu, a gorgeous and powerful vampire.

It is a world where nothing can be taken for granted: a dog can heal with a lick; spirits bag your groceries; and whatever you do, never-ever rub the genie's lamp.


What did I think of it:
This is a very entertaining read.

Jane is a fun lead character, and I enjoyed discovering the existence of all the magical creatures through her eyes. The book was less snarky than I feared it would be. Jane does have some snarky conversations with herself, but it was fun instead of overdone as in some books that are being called snarky by other reviewers.

The mystery storyline that pushes Jane into the supernatural world felt a bit wobbly, and seemed to be added more to make sure Jane gets introduced to her heritage and the other magical creatures, than that it was actually a solid storyline. I didn't mind though, the story was entertaining and fun even without a decent mystery.

The ending leaves open enough things to make me wonder what will be next for Jane. I already have the second book, so I will pick it up soon.

Why should you read it:
It's a fun Paranormal read.


buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery

Thursday, 19 March 2015

On McPig's Wishlist - The Creative Fire

This sounds so intriguing!


The Creative Fire (Ruby's Song #1)
by Brenda Cooper


Nothing can match the power of a single voice...

Ruby Martin expects to spend her days repairing robots while avoiding the dangerous peacekeeping forces that roam the corridors of the generation ship The Creative Fire. The social structure of the ship is rigidly divided, with Ruby and her friends on the bottom. Then a ship-wide accident gives Ruby a chance to fight for the freedom she craves. Her enemies are numerous, well armed, and knowledgeable. Her weapons are a fabulous voice, a quick mind, and a deep stubbornness. Complicating it all-an unreliable A.I. and an enigmatic man she met - and kissed - exactly once-who may hold the key to her success. If Ruby can't transform from a rebellious teen to the leader of a revolution, she and all her friends will lose all say in their future.

Like the historical Evita Perón, Ruby rises from the dregs of society to hold incredible popularity and power. Her story is about love and lust and need and a thirst for knowledge and influence so deep that it burns.



buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery

Wednesday, 18 March 2015

Stone in the Sky - Book Review


Stone in the Sky (Tin Star #2)
by Cecil Castellucci


What is it about:
In this thrilling follow-up to Tin Star, Tula will need to rely on more than just her wits to save her only home in the sky.

After escaping death a second time, Tula Bane is now even thirstier for revenge. She spends much of her time in the Tin Star Café on the Yertina Feray—the space station she calls home. But when it's discovered that the desolate and abandoned planet near the station has high quantities of a precious resource, the once sleepy space station becomes a major player in intergalactic politics. In the spirit of the Gold Rush, aliens from all over the galaxy race to cash in—including Tula's worst enemy.


What did I think of it:
I don't often buy books that are more than 10 Euro, but I loved Tin Star so much, I had to make an exception for Stone in the Sky. I just couldn't wait for the paperback.

And it was worth it!

Stone is the Sky is a beautiful story.

Tula is faced with difficult choices in this book. Take revenge on Brother Blue, or let him go free to serve the greater good. Give her heart to Tournour, who is an alien, or to a human boy. Stay safe and hidden, or take action and risk her life for others?

I loved how Tula isn't a typical do-good hero. She learned to look out for herself first, so heroism isn't her natural response to things. I'm not saying she isn't heroic though. It's because she keeps overcoming her instincts, that tell her to run, that I find her all the more a hero.

The events in this book lead Tula away from the aliens who she trusts and are her friends. On her own she learns a lot more about herself and what she wants though, and I loved seeing her evolve from an angry, insecure teenager into a woman who knows who she is and what she wants from life.

Next to Tula's growth as a character there's lots of intrigue, double dealings, and political games going on. I was totally engrossed in the story and had a hard time putting the book down.

The romance in this book was understated, but very sweet, and I loved how it played out.

All in all Stone in the Sky is a beautiful conclusion of this duology, and I can advice it to anyone who is looking for a good Young Adult SciFi read.

Why should you read it:
It's a beautiful YA SciFi read.


buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery

Tuesday, 17 March 2015

Teaser Tuesdays - The Talon of the Hawk

This whole series is so good!!


"What are you afraid of, Ursula?"
"You yourself called me fearless." Which wasn't true. My fears hounded me, baying that everything I believed might be a lie.

(page 97, The Talon of the Hawk*)


buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery


* teaser is taken from the ARC, so might be different in the final version.

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Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following: - Grab your current read - Open to a random page - Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!) - Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

Monday, 16 March 2015

Fire - Book Review


Fire (Graceling Realm #2)
by Kristin Cashore


What is it about:
It is not a peaceful time in the Dells. The young King Nash clings to his throne while rebel lords in the north and south build armies to unseat him. The mountains and forests are filled with spies and thieves and lawless men.

This is where Fire lives. With a wild, irresistible appearance and hair the color of flame, Fire is the last remaining human monster. Equally hated and adored, she had the unique ability to control minds, but she guards her power, unwilling to steal the secrets of innocent people. Especially when she has so many of her own.

Then Prince Brigan comes to bring her to King City, The royal family needs her help to uncover the plot against the king. Far away from home, Fire begins to realize there's more to her power than she ever dreamed. Her power could save the kingdom.

If only she weren't afraid of becoming the monster her father was.


What did I think of it:
This is a really cool read.

I liked the idea of monster versions of normal animals: unnaturally colored and vicious. Fire is a human monster, but she hates her powers, and what she can do with them. Her way of trying to deal with what she is, made for a compelling story.

There was also a lot going on with feuding lords, conspiracies, and what not, but that was just a backdrop for the story of Fire's personal growth in my opinion. Reading about her, about how she tries to bloom after years of hiding away was what made this an interesting story. I will confess though that I love stories where characters are faced with moral dilemmas. What makes a person turn to doing evil? What makes another decide differently?

Although this is the second book in the series, it is chronologically set before Graceling.

This is probably done because a character from Graceling is in this book, and knowing some events in this book might have spoiled some things in Graceling

Even so: I will confess that the events linking this book to Graceling felt unnecessary, and they didn't really add to the story in my opinion. I do wonder however if maybe Fire's story will have an impact on the next book in this series, and if maybe the linking events in this book will make sense to me once I've read Bitterblue.

Luckily I have Bitterblue in my TBR pile, so I will soon find out.

Why should you read it:
It's a very cool YA Fantasy read.


buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery

Friday, 13 March 2015

The Better Part of Darkness - Book Review


The Better Part of Darkness (Charlie Madigan #1)
by Kelly Gay


What is it about:
Atlanta: it's the promised city for the off-worlders, foreigners from the alternate dimensions of heaven-like Elysia and hell-like Charbydon. Some bring good works and miracles. And some bring unimaginable evil....

Charlie Madigan is a divorced mother of one, and a kick-ass cop trained to take down the toughest human and off-world criminals. She's recently returned from the dead after a brutal attack, an unexplained revival that has left her plagued by ruthless nightmares and random outbursts of strength that make doing her job for Atlanta P.D.'s Integration Task Force even harder. Since the Revelation, the criminal element in Underground Atlanta has grown, leaving Charlie and her partner Hank to keep the chaos to a dull roar. But now an insidious new danger is descending on her city with terrifying speed, threatening innocent lives: a deadly, off-world narcotic known as ash. Charlie is determined to uncover the source of ash before it targets another victim -- but can she protect those she loves from a force more powerful than heaven and hell combined?


What did I think of it:
This is a very nice read.

I will confess that although I did like the world building and the overall story, I was a bit apprehensive of the relationship story line. Charlie might be divorced, but her ex keeps showing up and trying to get back with her. Maybe it's because when I burn bridges, I burn them beyond recovery, that this part of the story annoyed me. Especially when I found out why they divorced.

But the relationship drama was only a small part of the story, so it didn't annoy me too much. And luckily there were some interesting men who might be able to get Charlie's thoughts off her ex.

The events in this book were suspenseful, and even though it seemed the stakes were set a bit too high (it's so often DOOM! in these kinds of stories, while smaller threats can be just as suspenseful in my opinion) I very much enjoyed the ride.

The ending gives some closure, but leaves a lot open, making me curious about what will happen next. Luckily i already have the next book in my TBR pile, so I'll be picking it up soon.

Why should you read it:
It's a very enjoyable UF read.


buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery

Thursday, 12 March 2015

On McPig's Radar - Hellbender

I so want to get my trotters on this book, because this is such an awesome series.

You want to know how awesome?

Then you might want to keep an eye out, because there just might be a really cool giveaway on my blog close to the release day of this book.


Hellbender (Fangborn #3)
by Dana Cameron


I-Day is near at hand, and soon the Fangborn will reveal themselves to humankind. As a member of this secretive race of werewolves, vampires, and oracles, will archaeologist Zoe Miller be prepared?

Still grappling with the newfound powers she gained after opening Pandora’s box, Zoe shares the responsibility of protecting “Normal” humans. Having long preferred to keep to the shadows, she knows the pending revelation of the Fangborn will set the world on fire. With Fangborn enemies in the Order of Nicomedia forcing their hand, Zoe and her supernatural Family have no choice but to step into the spotlight. But that decision has garnered the attention of the powerful and otherworldly beings known as the Makers. They claim to have created the Fangborn—not as saviors, but as predators. And it seems they have their own plans for Zoe…and for the fate of all the Fangborn.

Filled with stunning twists, Hellbender takes the Fangborn series to a thrilling new dimension.



Expected publication: March 31st 2015

buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery

Wednesday, 11 March 2015

Binding the Shadows - Book Review


Binding the Shadows (Arcadia Bell #3)
by Jenn Bennett


What is it about:
Renegade mage and bartender Arcadia Bell has had a rough year, but now the door to her already unstable world is unhinging. When a citywide crime wave erupts, Cady's demon-friendly tiki bar is robbed by Earthbounds wielding surreal demonic abilities that just flat-out shouldn't exist.

With the help of her devilishly delicious boyfriend, Lon Butler, Cady sets out to find the people who wronged her—but her targets aren't the only ones experiencing unnatural metamorphoses.

Can Cady track down the monsters responsible before the monster inside her destroys everything—and everyone—she loves? If she survives this adventure, one thing is certain: it's last call for life as she knows it.


What did I think of it:
I'm very much enjoying this series.

It's fun, has cool characters, and there's lots of action.

The story felt a bit wobbly at times, sliding in several directions, but things fell in place eventually. And the action and character interaction was enough fun, that I didn't mind the wobbles I will confess.

Cady's powers are growing and changing, and the things that happen in this book make me very curious what will happen next with Cady. It looks like things might go seriously wrong if Cady isn't careful. I also got the feeling Jupe, Lon's son, will have a few surprises for everyone.

All in all this is a very enjoyable and entertaining read, and I will pick up the last book in this series soon.

Why should you read it:
It's a fun and action-packed UF read.


buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery

Tuesday, 10 March 2015

Teaser Tuesdays - Prince of Shadows


I hit him. It came suddenly, in a rush of hot blood that brought me from the chair.

(page 78, Prince of Shadows by Rachel Caine)


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Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following: - Grab your current read - Open to a random page - Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!) - Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

Monday, 9 March 2015

Love Minus Eighty - Book Review


Love Minus Eighty
by Will McIntosh


What is it about:
Years in the future, dead women in cryogenic dating farms await rich, lonely suitors to resurrect them and take them home.

LOVE MINUS EIGHTY follows interconnected lives touched by these dating farms.

There's Rob, who accidentally kills a jogger, then sells everything to visit her, seeking her forgiveness but instead falling in love. Veronika, a socially-awkward dating coach, finds herself responsible for the happiness of a man whose life she saved against his will. And Mira, a gay woman accidentally placed in the heterosexual dating center near its inception, desperately seeks a way to reunite with her frozen partner as the centuries pass.


What did I think of it:
This is a beautiful read.

The future world McIntosh describes feels cold and impersonal. People interact mostly through screens, with help of coaches. Dead women, who have been frozen after death, have to try to seduce rich men with lurid promises so they can get resurrected. Still this story breathes warmth and love. It shows that human interaction and friendship is important to stay human yourself.

The stories of Rob and Veronika are the most worked out, while Mira's story seems almost an afterthought at times. Added only to show the horrors of the frozen women, who have to date and catch a husband even in death. Still her story might have been small, but it touched me the most. Rob's quest to make enough money to keep visiting the woman he accident killed was touching as well, but it felt more like a faerie tale at times, where Mira's struggles felt more real to me.

I also really enjoyed Veronika's story line. She's the character in this book that grows the most as a person. Starting out as insecure, with an impossible crush, but blooming into the person she is meant to be.

All in all this is a story about friendship, love, and fighting for what you believe in. I will most certainly put this book on my keeper shelves, and I will investigate what other books McIntosh has written.

Why should you read it:
It's a beautiful and though provoking read.


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Sunday, 8 March 2015

Fifty Shades of Grey - Movie Rant by Voodoo Bride


Fifty Shades of Grey - The Movie

What is it about:
When literature student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating. The unworldly, innocent Ana is startled to realize she wants this man and, despite his enigmatic reserve, finds she is desperate to get close to him. Unable to resist Ana’s quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms.

Shocked yet thrilled by Grey’s singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of success—his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving family—Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian Grey’s secrets and explores her own dark desires.


Voodoo Bride's thoughts and rant:
Spoilery!

Knowing the Twilight fanfic background of the Fifty Shades books I never picked them up. Bella and Edward from Twilight aren't my favorite characters, no matter the setting.

I also wasn't so sure about the BDSM part of the Fifty Shades books. I do love BDSM, but Fifty Shades sounded like there were lots of better books for me to read.

Still: when I was asked by friends if I wanted to go see the movie with them, I said yes. I love going to the movies, and with the right company even a bad movie can be part of a fun night out.

I will say that I found myself enjoying Fifty Shades of Grey for the most part. Even with some things that made me smirk (Ana being a virgin because she never met the right guy before Christian, and her inherited Bella-clumsiness for example) the movie was entertaining enough.

It did make me stop and wonder about what it is about a millionaire that so many women find attractive. I will confess I've dreamed about being rich as well, but in my case I never dreamed about a millionaire showering me with expensive presents, or taking me on outrageous trips. I've always wanted to be rich myself. to be the one with the money, and to be in control. Why is it that so many other women DO dream of a rich man to spoil them? And is it this aspect of Fifty Shades of Grey that makes this such a popular story?

Moving on.

The BDSM part of the movie was quite vanilla in my opinion, but it is a blockbuster, so anything more would probably have been too much for a lot of people (it already was too much for some, going by the not so quietly whispered comments of other viewers).

And then: The ending!

After a whole movie of Ana and Christian dancing around each other, and exploring the edges of BDSM, Christian and the viewers who enjoyed the BDSM part of the 'romance' got a harsh slap on the wrist:
Dominants are twisted, bad people! How dare Christian want to punish and hurt Ana! How dare viewers enjoy this! Poor, poor Ana.

...

I can't even begin to describe how pissed off I was by that ending!
Really?
That's the moralizing message you send the viewers of this movie home with?

What could have been an enjoyable movie was ruined for me with that ending.

A friend who read the books told me that this message will get taken away and gets more nuance in the next two books, but even so: This is not how you end a first movie or book in my opinion.

I can tell you that I immediately picked up a decent BDSM story when I got home to get rid of the bad taste the ending of Fifty Shades of Grey left me with.

Why should you see it:
It's beautifully filmed, and is mostly entertaining.


Friday, 6 March 2015

Zombies Don't Cry - Book Review


Zombies Don't Cry (Living Dead Love Story #1)
by Rusty Fischer


What is it about:
Maddy Swift is just a normal girl—a high school junior surviving class with her best friend and hoping the yummy new kid, Stamp, will ask her out. When he finally does, her whole life changes.

Sneaking out to meet Stamp at a party one rainy night, Maddy is struck by lightning. After awakening, she feels lucky to be alive. Over time, however, Maddy realizes that she’s become the thing she and everyone else fear most: the living dead.

With no heartbeat and no breath in her lungs, Maddy must learn how to survive as a zombie. Turns out there’s a lot more to it than shuffling around 24/7 growling, “Brains.” Needing an afterlife makeover is only the beginning of her problems. As Barracuda Bay High faces zombie Armageddon, Maddy must summon all of her strength to protect what matters most—just as soon as she figures out exactly what that is.


What did I think about it:
When will I learn that most books about 'thinking zombies' are not for me? Probably never, because the word zombie just lures me in every time with its possibilities for zombie mayhem and carnage.

Maddy is doing such brainless things, I would call her 'Too Stupid To Live' if she wasn't a zombie. So now I will just have to call her 'Too Stupid To Be A Zombie', and that's saying something.

But it turns out her stupidity is hereditary: her father is a coroner and doesn't notice his daughter is a zombie! I had to wonder how often he makes mistakes in his work.

The stupidity of this father-daughter team aside: there were some cool other characters, and it was for them that I kept reading. The 'science' behind the zombies was a little rickety, but interesting enough to want to find out more about the zombies. Sadly enough the story didn't give me enough of that, and an overdose of Maddy being brainless (and having a bad taste in friends and boys).

So while the story was entertaining enough for me to finish this book, I won't be putting it on my keeper shelves, and I won't read any other books in this series.

Why should you read it:
It's a nice enough read if you don't mind Maddy.


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