Book review: Grave Peril by Jim Butcher

Harry Dresden – Wizard
Lost Items Found. Paranormal Investigations. Consulting. Advice. Reasonable Rates. No Love Potions, Endless Purses, or Other Entertainment.

Harry Dresden has faced some pretty terrifying foes during his career. Giant scorpions. Oversexed vampires. Psychotic werewolves. It comes with the territory when you’re the only professional wizard in the Chicago-area phone book.

But in all Harry’s years of supernatural sleuthing, he’s never faced anything like this: The spirit world has gone postal. All over Chicago, ghosts are causing trouble – and not just of the door-slamming, boo-shouting variety. These ghosts are tormented, violent, and deadly. Someone – or something – is purposely stirring them up to wreak unearthly havoc. But why? And why do so many of the victims have ties to Harry? If Harry doesn’t figure it out soon, he could wind up a ghost himself….

With every book that I complete in this series I am enjoying it more and more. I have read some other reviews and I know some people seem to not like Harry’s view on women, I do not agree with them. While in some sense his view is old fashioned he fully admits that and as a man he of course does notice how a woman is dressed and what it does to her form, but you don’t see him running around molesting them. So that said the story itself.

We learn more about Harry’s past in this one and we see that even with all his powers he can’t always save the day in a perfect way like he wants too. No in fact sometimes he just can’t do much at all and has to deal like the rest of us with the cards he is dealt. I also found it interesting that we learn more about the different kinds of vampire in his world, the red’s, whites and blacks. Very curious and interesting. Overall this was another action packed installment and I am so happy that I started reading this series. Harry has a very practical look to magik and I like the way that he wields it.

My Gemstone Rating:

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Book Review: Lover Avenged by JR Ward

J. R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood novels have introduced readers to a “different, creative, dark, violent, and flat-out amazing” (All About Romance)world. Now, as the vampire warriors defend their race against their slayers, one male’s loyalty to the Brotherhood will be tested-and his dangerous mixed blood revealed…

Caldwell, New York, has long been the battleground for the vampires and their enemies, the Lessening Society. It’s also where Rehvenge has staked out his turf as a drug lord and owner of a notorious night club that caters to the rich and heavily armed. His shadowy reputation is exactly why he’s approached to kill Wrath, the Blind King and leader of the Brotherhood.

Rehvenge has always kept his distance from the Brotherhood-even though his sister is married to a member, for he harbors a deadly secret that could make him a huge liability in their war against the lessers. As plots within and outside of the Brotherhood threaten to reveal the truth about Rehvenge, he turns to the only source of light in his darkening world, Ehlena, a vampire untouched by the corruption that has its hold on him-and the only thing standing between him and eternal destruction.

For me this was another one that hit out of the park on a high note. We spent a good deal of time with the Brother’s but we also get to know Rhevenge better, he was a shady character for most of the books. A man who dealt drugs, was part sympath part Vampire and all of that. What we didn’t know was what made him tick, what truly made him do what he did, was he just bad? Or was there a reason. Lover avenged answers that and more.

We also spend more time with my favorite Brother as he is recovering, Tohrment. Him and his wonderful (he doesn’t think so) guardian angel lassiter are there and he is working on coming back and being the Brother that he needs to be. Overall this is a win win for me and I am very glad I made it my next read. Its a great book in the series and only wets the appetite for more.

 

My Gemstone Rating:

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Book Review: Fool Moon by Jim Butcher

Harry Dresden–Wizard
Lost Items Found. Paranormal Investigations. Consulting. Advice. Reasonable Rates. No Love Potions, Endless Purses, or Other Entertainment.

Business has been slow. Okay, business has been dead. And not even of the undead variety. You would think Chicago would have a little more action for the only professional wizard in the phone book. But lately, Harry Dresden hasn’t been able to dredge up any kind of work–magical or mundane.

But just when it looks like he can’t afford his next meal, a murder comes along that requires his particular brand of supernatural expertise.

A brutally mutilated corpse. Strange-looking paw prints. A full moon. Take three guesses–and the first two don’t count..

Another good book in the series of Dresden. I am really enjoying the strong, modern and yet old fashioned guy that makes Harry. I was not sure that I would like the wolves because as a general rule I am not a fan of werewolves however I really enjoyed the way they were presented in Fool Moon. I like that there are different kinds of them and good ole Harry is pretty good at dealing with all of them.

From an entertainment POV this book ticks all of my boxes and I plan on continuing with the series. One of the last things I need is getting deep into another series, and yet I am very excited about this one. I would highly recommend anyone who has not read the series start and then keep on!

My Gemstone Rating:

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Book review: The Holdout by Laurel Osterkamp

Robin wanted to win The Holdout, a cutthroat reality TV show, so she gave it her all, challenge after challenge. Then she fell for Grant, with his irresistible eyes and heartbreaking life story. But Grant was only using Robin as they competed for a million dollars. Once home, Robin wants to hide from the humiliation as episodes of The Holdout are aired, and she worries her family was right all along; she’s not a survivor. Or maybe she’ll have the last laugh Besides, Robin now has jury duty. And as she forges ahead, confronting her demons about bravery, justice, and romance, Robin will come to decide which is more important: the courage to stand alone, or the strength to love again. Laurel Osterkamp’s award winning novels have been hailed as funny, intelligent, snarky and poignant. She is the author of four novels and two novellas, including the November Surprise series, which, like The Holdout, features the Bricker family. Laurel was recently on a federal jury, and she loves watching Survivor.

Ah reality TV you can’t escape it! I love this book for the different look it takes at things. We see not only what a reality show can do to someone but life after the reality show along with what I feel is just living life.

Robin the main character did not have an easy life, she like many of us has had things she needed to cover come in her life. I appreciate what I feel is a very real feeling in this book. Looking at life as it happens after a big reality show. Laurel Osterkamp has done a fantastic job with The hold out.

My Gemstone Rating:

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Vacation time!

Well this is the last blog to get the notice of mine, well okay the last regularly posted on blog (must get better with Loki’s army. I will catch up on that at some point…anyways..) Other then possibly posting a review or two from what I have finished before going. This blog will be on vacation until I return from my trip 😀 I will be back the second week in April. I hope everyone has fun 😀 don’t miss me to much.

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Blog Tour Book Review: A Thousand Perfect Things by Kay Kenyon

In this epic new work, the award-winning Kenyon creates an alternate 19th century with two warring continents on an alternate earth: the scientific Anglica (England) and magical Bharata (India). Emboldened by her grandfather’s final whispered secret of a magical lotus, Tori Harding, a young Victorian woman and aspiring botanist, must journey to Bharata, with its magics, intrigues and ghosts, to claim her fate. There she will face a choice between two suitors and two irreconcilable realms.

In a magic-infused world of silver tigers, demon birds and enduring gods, as a great native mutiny sweeps up the continent, Tori will find the thing she most desires, less perfect than she had hoped and stranger than she could have dreamed

I have to say that this book is so strange and so brilliant all at the same time. It was a very enjoyable read and it was something completely different then what I have been reading so far this year. I was looking forward to reading this one, and was not let down which was nice because all to often I end up being let down by books that I really want to read.

Kay Kenyon has created a beautiful alternative history with A thousand perfect things and I love her version of London, and the world in general. The descriptions are fantastic and vivid lending to the story so well you can’t help but picture everything that is happening. This one is going to be a read again for me.

My Gemstone Rating:

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Viking Romance Sale Promo Limited time sale!



EMERALD ISLE TRILOGY
Boxed Set
By Renee Vincent

One man risks his life to save her.
Another risks his heart to love her.
Who will be the victor?

Three of Renee Vincent’s bestselling and critically acclaimed historical Viking romance novels are now available in one spellbinding bundle—yours for only 99¢ (limited time offer)
Full of fast-paced adventure, unforeseen plot twists, and courageous, to-die-for heroes like you’ve never read before, this extraordinary boxed set is sure to satisfy every readers’ craving for the ultimate in historical Viking romance.

Available now at:

RĂŚliksen, Book 1
Mara, the daughter of an Irish clansman, was raised to believe the men of the North are heathens – murderous pagans without a moral bone in their bodies. Despite warnings of the Northmen’s raids, and the growing threat of another incursion, Mara is continually drawn to her favorite place – the River Shannon.

DĂŚgan RĂŚliksen, a wealthy chieftain from Norway’s frozen fjords, secretly discovers Mara at the water’s edge. He is charmed by her beauty and sensuous grace. As the days pass, his contentment with simply watching her grows thin. He can no longer deny his unabated desire for the young maiden. His search for a wife has ended.

However, Mara and DĂŚgan come face-to-face in a time when Ireland is in turmoil – when every Irishman is being called up to fight against the Nordic foreigners. In these times of upheaval, how can DĂŚgan make peace with Mara’s father and acquire the woman he treasures? Furthermore, can Mara move past her fears and find the noble man within the savage?

Teaser Quote:

“You are correct in saying that desires often come from things we cannot easily gain—mine, being that of your love. By all accounts, I do wish I could steal it. But I am not that sort of man. I will wait. Forever and a day…I will wait.”

Reviews:

“This is my first read by Renee Vincent and she has undoubtedly earned a place on my auto-buy author’s list. This book and author earn my highest recommendations and I feel privileged to have read one of the best.”
~ 5 Stars TOP PICK ~ Night Owl Reviews

“…a fast-paced, action-packed historical romance, which Ms. Vincent brings to life right before your eyes; a story you will remember long after the last page is read.”
~ 5 Blue Ribbons! ~ Romance Junkies

Mac Liam, Book 2

A tortured soul…

Breandán Mac Liam, the strapping young hunter from Ireland’s lush forests, is in love with Mara, an ineligible beautiful princess. For seven long years, he has been vividly haunted by her memory, taunted by the throes of his heartache. And not even the thought of her marriage to a Northman can extinguish the fierce, burning desire running rampant through his heart and soul.

An innocent heart…

Mara, the spirited Connacht princess, has no idea she is the object of the Irishman’s longing. She is living out her days on Inis Mór, raising a troubled son and trying to endure the cruel loneliness that afflicts her.

A deadly secret…

Ordered by the king on his deathbed, Breandán must return to Mara and bring her through the perilous lands of Connacht to fulfill her father’s last dying wish. But as their worlds collide, Breandán not only finds himself wrapped in the arms of Mara’s embrace, but thrown into a struggle to defend his honor.

With Mara caught between the family she loves and the father she knows, can BreandĂĄn uncover the mystery of her past and still protect her from a secret that threatens them all?

Teaser Quote:

“Mara, you are my next breath. You are the reason I breathe at all.”

Reviews:

“This is one fantastic historical…a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical romance and I cannot wait to read the final book of the trilogy as this story has stayed with me days after I read the last word.”
~ 5 Hearts “5 Heart Sweetheart Award” ~ The Romance Studio

“Ms. Vincent surpassed all of my expectations with her impressive writing abilities, while offering more incites and revelations that will keep readers coming back for more. Readers should be warned of the emotional turmoil they will face once again while reading this incredible story. I eagerly anticipate the next story in this trilogy, yet already mourn the finality.”
~ 5 Stars TOP PICK ~ Night Owl Reviews

The Fall of Rain, Book 3

Leif Dæganssen, an archeologist from Norway, is determined to trace back his Scandinavian roots as far as the Dark Ages and find proof of their existence on the Emerald Isle. After several years of living off the west coast of Ireland, he finally uncovers an ancient artifact—an intricately decorated chest with pagan carvings—buried beneath the very porch of his coastal cottage. Knowing it only confirms the presence of a glorified Norse-influenced settlement on Inis Mór, he’s determined to establish a link between himself and those who once inhabited the rugged isle.

For as long as she can remember, Lorraine O’Connor has had dreams of a Norse warrior kissing her. And even though she’s never fully understood the reason for her vivid subconscious imagination, she welcomes the meaningless and wanton pleasure of being in a Viking’s protective embrace—until the day she meets that brazen Northman on an impulsive vacation trip to Ireland.

Though blindsided by the relevance of her dreams and the strange familiarity of the man within them, Lorraine can’t help but feel a deep-seated intimacy toward Leif. And the more she gets to know him, the more she’s convinced they’ve shared a life together in a time long forgotten.

Are the clues to their ancestral past hidden within the contents of the chest or buried deep within their hearts?

Teaser Quote:

“What Lorraine has told you is the honest truth. There’s no denying who you are. But until you go in that house and dig up the evidence for yourself, you’ll never know who you used to be. Oh, I know you’ll realize it one day. By then, I fear it’ll be too late. So, don’t be a fool and let the only woman you’ve ever loved slip through your grasp. Three days, Leif.”

Reviews:

“I didn’t believe it was possible to take Daegan and Mara’s incredible love story to another level, but I am extremely pleased to be wrong. Every word seemed to have a purpose in helping create a beautiful and poetic ending to an unforgettable trilogy. If you’ve never heard of the name Renee Vincent then you’re missing out on quality reading that’s worth every second of your undivided attention. It’s an escapists dream and I will most certainly be back for more.”
~ 5 Stars TOP PICK ~ Night Owl Reviews

“An ingenious ending to an amazing trilogy! This series has become my all-time favorite.”
~ 5 Blue Ribbons ~ Romance Junkies

Author Bio:

RENEE VINCENT is a bestselling Contemporary & Historical Romance Author. From the daunting, charismatic Vikings, to the charming, brazen Alpha male heroes of modern day, you’ll be whisked away to a world filled with fast-paced adventure, unforgettable romance, and undying love.

She also writes lighthearted, fancy-free Chick Lit Romance as GRACIE LEE ROSE. For those who love to read fun, wholesome, and endearing romantic stories (with a smidgen of spunk) that your mother, sisters, friends, and daughters can enjoy.







Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This event was organized by CBB Book Promotions

WWW Wednesday 3/19/14

This is another one hosted over at Should be Reading

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading?

• What did you recently finish reading?

• What are you reading next?

Not much as changed from last week but I added another book to the reading section.

Currently Reading:

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Recently Finished:

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17572625

Up next:

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Posted in WWW

Teaser Tuesday 3/18/14

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!

“You know,” he said, “this is why I love you so much.”
Her tone was heartbreakingly warm. “What do you mean?”
You don’t ask me to go inside because it’s cold. You just want to make it easier for me to be where I want to stand.”
― J.R. Ward, Lover Avenged

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