Freebies and Deals, On Nook Too (23)

As every week now, the link to Barnes and Nobles Freebie Friday thread.  Hope you find something you love.

I have heard this book is now free on Nook.

This is the first novella in the Touched series.

Cursed by S.A. Archer & S. Ravynheart

Barnes & Nobles~ NOOK    

Goodreads Synopsis:

As a private investigator specializing in paranormal problems, London Eyer thought she could handle working for the Sidhe. They couldn’t be any worse than vampires or werewolves or wizards, could they? Oh, how wrong she was. One ‘Touch’ of Sidhe magic and she was cursed. Her only chance to survive is to serve the creep that cursed her against the vicious Changelings out for his blood.

FREE!!
I've mentioned this before, but thought I'd mention again as I loved this book and this is where I felt the author was one to keep an eye on.  Yes, I am a huge fan of Philippa Ballantines writing, and this was an old story, but amazing tale.

Chasing the Bard by Philippa Ballantine
Barnes & Nobles ~ Nook      Amazon ~ Kindle
Goodreads Synopsis:
Born into the human world with a gift; a gift that brings him to the attention of powers both dark and light from the World of the Fey, it is his burden to defend all the world. 

Sive, the goddess of battle, hopes that he may be able to change the fate of her people.The Fey are dying, killed by something beyond the boundaries of worlds, and Sive will do anything to save them. So she enlists the help of her trickster cousin Puck to guard the child, and watch him grow into his gift. But a dark power imprisoned by human and Fey, plots to destroy both worlds, and unmake all that they have created. 

Can one boy stop the destruction, even if he is William Shakespeare?

Anything else?

Movie Review: Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

Released:  2011

Rated:  PG-13

Genre:  Action, Adventure

Length:  129mins = 2hrs, 9 mins

Recommendation:  Oh yes, you love mystery, action and the workings of Sherlock Holmes mind, this one is a must along with the first.

Synopsis:
Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.) and his longtime trusted associate, Doctor Watson (Jude Law), take on their arch-nemesis, Professor Moriarty (Jared Harris), with the help of Holmes' older brother Mycroft Holmes (Stephen Fry) and a gypsy named Simza (Noomi Rapace).

My Thoughts and Summary:
Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson are at it again.  But Watson is getting married, and doesn't want to be on a new adventure.  Holmes goes on his own, but Watson falls into the crossfire and right into the adventure.

We get the same determined and selfish genius Holmes.  But yet he is concerned with Watson and his bride, just has his own way of showing it.  Holmes throws himself right into the case after following Irene with a secret package she's delivering, and hearing of all the bombs being placed in specific places to remove certain people.

The bombings lead back to a civil rights group, with the help of a gypsy Madam Simza Heron.  There is lots of action, running, fighting, and land covered.  We are on a train and running from canons.  Holmes takes on his arch-nemesis Professor Moriarty who is of equal brain power as Holmes.  Very clever duo here!

I will say this is a movie that you have to pay attention.  There are so many little things that happen and leave clues to you.  And Holmes picks up on minute things that we don't even see.  I can say I could watch this movie several times and pick up something new each time with all the details and information.  Also, I could enjoy it for the action and humor blended in.

It might have been just me, but the movie started so fast that I was almost lost on what was going on.  So when you hit play, be ready to dive into the plot right away.

Of course the husband and kid both watched this one and enjoyed it thoroughly.  Lots of action and things going boom.  (thinking of Eliza from The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series, she would love it!)  But the humor and action definitely keep the eye trained on the screen.  The mystery keeps the brain sharp.

The title does tell all, A Game of Shadows.  The Professor and Holmes play this game very well.

Looking Forward To...(109)

There are so many amazing books already on the shelves and new ones coming out.

For a list of books yet to be released I'm looking to get, you can also look on my right Sidebar at the ever growing list titled Desired Reads - just scroll down. Of course there are tones of other new books to come out that are amazing as well, but these ones are part of series I have already started or for one reason or another caught my eye (and haven't seen much on other blogs yet). But I will highlight one here each week.

(mentioned in order of Release Date then Alphabetical if there are more than one book coming out on the same date.)

Next Book Is...

Wrayth

By:  Philippa Ballantine

Due Out:  August 27, 2012

So, I had a bad release date for this one on the side bar.  Sorry.  It's out.  And I'm sooo looking forward to learning more about Scorcha and Merrick in this one.  The series is so close to being over, after this one but I still have to have it!  And I am a fan of Raed's.  I love the lion!

Goodreads Synopsis:
In the Empire of Arkaym, the Order of Deacons protects and shelters the citizens from the attacks of the unliving. All are sworn to fight the evil forces of the geists—and to keep the world safe from the power of the Otherside… 

Although she is one of the most powerful Deacons in the Order, Sorcha Faris is still unable to move or speak after her last battle. Even her partner, Merrick Chambers, cannot reach her through their shared Bond. Yet there are those who still fear Sorcha and the mystery of her hidden past. 

Meanwhile, Merrick has been asked to investigate a new member of the Emperor’s Court. But when Sorcha is abducted by men seeking Raed Rossin, the shapeshifting rival to the throne, Merrick must choose where his loyalties lie.

Blog Book Chat: Final Stop, Shadows Before the Sun

We have finished the book!!  And I don't know about all you, but I'm ready for the next Charlie Madigan book.  There is more, much more to come.  I can feel it.

But now that we are done, all is free game to chat about.  And even what you think might come in the future books.

So, Come join us!  The chat is hosted by Robyn at Bookoholic Zone this week, so jump over!

****WARNING:  For those who have not read the book, there will be SPOILERS in the questions and comments.****

We have questions to get us started, but if there is something else you would like to discuss, mention it in the comments and we will gladly join in.

Again, join the chat with us.

Throwback Thursday (80)

I found this picture of Trinity College Library, and thought it would work for this meme with a little play with lighting and adding the words.

Let's talk about those books already on the shelves, yours or the stores.

I have a post for books I'm looking forward to coming out;

Unk

Looking Forward To...

But what about all those wonderful books that are ALREADY on the shelves.

Whether it be on your shelf waiting to be read or on the shelves in the stores waiting for you to give it a good home.

So, I thought I would share a book a week that is just waiting for me to travel through it's world.

Now... where do I start? Lets go by Published Date on the books...

This Week:

Aaaah.  This one was one I did want, but the kid talked me into.  Yeah, like it takes much talking to get me to buy books. Ha!  But, this was one that had caught his eye.  Shame on us.  We have not read it yet.  Maybe this year for school I can talk him into reading it for AR points.

The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

Goodreads Synopsis:

Since their mother's death, Carter and Sadie have become near strangers. While Sadie has lived with her grandparents in London, her brother has traveled the world with their father, the brilliant Egyptologist, Dr. Julius Kane. 

One night, Dr. Kane brings the siblings together for a "research experiment" at the British Museum, where he hopes to set things right for his family. Instead, he unleashes the Egyptian god Set, who banishes him to oblivion and forces the children to flee for their lives. 

Soon, Sadie and Carter discover that the gods of Egypt are waking, and the worst of them —Set— has his sights on the Kanes. To stop him, the siblings embark on a dangerous journey across the globe - a quest that brings them ever closer to the truth about their family and their links to a secret order that has existed since the time of the pharaohs.

Book Review: Spirits Rising

Spirits Rising

By:  Krista D. Ball

Publisher:  Amazon Digital Services

Publish Date:  January 2012

Format:  eBook

Genre:  Paranormal

Series:  1st in Spirit Caller series

Recommendation:  Quick read for ghost and spirit lovers, and a very good start into a new story with a world full of them.

Book Synopsis:
Rachel Mills has one wish in life: for the spirit world to shut up and leave her alone.  She thought her move to a remote fishing village in Northern Newfoundland would help.

Population: Twenty.  What could go wrong?

Instead of peace, however, she relocates to a land of superstitution, the air alive with the presence of others.

When a local teenager accidentally summons the spirits of the area, including those of a thousand-year-old Viking settlement, all supernatural breaks loose.  As the spirits stalk her and each other, Rachel finds herself in over her head.  With the help of Mrs. Saunders, her 93-year-old neighbour, Rachel has to put aside her own prejudices long enough to send the spirits back to rest, or risk being caught in the midst of a spirit war.

First Sentence:
"I'm not sure about this latte thing, Rachel," my elderly neighbour said.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Returning from her Mexico trip and catching up with her elderly neighbor, Mrs. Sauders, Rachel receives a phone call from a young man for help.  Thinking he needs a ride home, as she offers to do to all young adults if drinking, but learns the boy of a local Deacon who doesn't much like Rachel has a party in his basement that he didn't throw.  Vikings drinking, who are ghosts...in the flesh.

We start with Rachel returning home to Newfoundland after her getaway trip to Mexico, getting away from an unavailable boy she has feelings for, and meet her witty elder neighbor Mrs. Saunders.  In the beginning of eleven pages we meet Rachel and Mrs. Saunders and learn much about them and the small town they live in.

The quiet town of Wisemen's Cove has quite a history and people who believe the lore and history.  This little town seems to have ghosts every where with the history of this land.  We have flesh ghosts making an appearance, and the people seeing these flesh ghosts react as normal and pitch in to fight then mention the ghost they once saw.  All going back to the history of the land you learn about, it's old and has been through a lot.

Rachel is talented in that she senses and sees the dead.  She escaped to this small town in Newfoundland to, in hopes, escape from the dead she sees, only to find herself even deeper in paranormal than she expected.  She just wants to be accepted and normal.  Rachel doesn't think she's found that here, since she gets lots of hate mail in the religious front.  She is "sensitive in the paranormal" and people think her a witch or devil worshiper and such.  But, just maybe, Rachel will find a home and friends when she least expects it.

I do like Rachel's old woman neighbor, Mrs. Saunders.  She is strong, bold, and gutsy.  A fun character.  Jeremy...oh brother.  I like him.  He sounds cute and like such a nice man.  Unfortunately for Rachel (who really has a thing for him) he has a kind girlfriend.  He's unaware of Rachel's feelings, and a very good friend of hers.

I enjoyed this quick read and it's a very good start to a paranormal series of short stories.  I look forward to reading the next story, and more to come with Rachel.

You can purchase this on Amazon:

Ebook:

I read this novella for an honest review from the Author.

Who? What? Where? (80)

Who are you with? Where are you at? What's happening?

Share with us just a little bit of what is happening in the book you are reading, right where you are now.

Just a tiny taste of what's happening, remember try to not give spoilers of the book.

(This is a new meme I'm going to try and will tweak as I go. And please don't laugh at my lame attempt at drawing. ;D )

This Week:

I feel like Sevy and Revik just got in trouble by a mothers glare, acting like kids and enjoying themselves.  We are roughhousing in the tent of a dark elf camp, excited that both are alive.  These two are so different from those around them, and I love them for it.

Shades of War
By:  Sarah-Jane Lehoux

Overall Thoughts On: Fables of the Flying City

Fables of the Flying City

By:  Jared Axelrod

Format:  Podcast

Genre:  Steampunk

Series:  First two books of Ashe

Recommendation:  Yes, of course!  Wonderful tale of Ashe, and gives great background to us for the graphic novel (although not needed to listen to to read graphic novel but adds to the suspense).

My Quick Thoughts:

I really enjoyed listening to this podcast.  Jared did a wonderful job of vocalizing the story.  I will say what sticks in my mind is the free flowing feeling of flying.  In both books it's mentioned, but in Mouths of the Dead I really got the feel of free flying and peace.  Jared is easy to listen to with his kind voice.

I enjoyed getting to know Ashe.  She was fun, strong, and full of spunk.  A girl not afraid of anything.  She is definitely my kind of character to follow.  The idea of Amperstam is amazing!  I was taken with the flying city and the fights to be independent of the world and fights they fly over.  Jared brings us around at the end of these two stories to become curious about a few things that will be brought to light in the graphic novel.  And I will say Jared did an amazing job of that here, as I'm anxious to read The Battle of Blood and Ink asap.

There are two books referenced in the podcasts, and I enjoyed both in different ways.

The first book:  Ashe of the Air

I enjoyed meeting Ashe and the clouddogs.  It was exciting and fun to meet everyone and see the reactions to each others personalities.  The flying and fighting was thrilling as well.  Ashe makes me laugh here with her carefree personality.  She is one tough and brave girl.

The second book:  Mouths of the Dead

Ashe has a drive, a story, and a mystery to solve.  Ashe seems to have grown as a character, even though still stubborn and determined she has a goal in mind and goes right for it.  I enjoyed traveling through the city and learning a few specific parts with her along the way.  And even a history behind the city.  We also get closer to learning about the powerful and mysterious horrible engine that moves the city.

Definitely a story to listen to and get to meet Ashe along with many others in this flying world.  The short episodes makes it easy to listen when and where ever.

I'll be diving into the graphic novel next, and that review will up soon!  I'm so curious about that dreaded engine and about Ashe.  Well done lead up to The Battle of Blood and Ink!  I didn't even realize it until the end that he brought us to the point we needed to be to get into the graphic novel.



If you would like to Listen to the stories about Ashe, you can find Fables of the Flying City free on the site for Fables of the Flying City: http://www.fablesoftheflyingcity.com/  There are links to iTunes and RSS feed.  You can also see the list of episodes in their order on Jared Axelrod's site.

If you are curious about the Graphic Novel, it is now available!  The Battle of Blood and Ink by Jared Axelrod and Steve Walker.  You can view a sample of the first 20 pages on Tor's site.



I listened to this story for my own enjoyment.

Thoughts On: Fables of the Flying City Ep 42-44

Fables of the Flying City

By:  Jared Axelrod

Genre:  Steampunk

Episode:  42 of 44, Book Two: Mouths of the Dead

Format:  Podcast; 10:49 minutes

Synopsis:
The Ossuarist

In which a floor is not a floor, tea is served, wares are shown, a dragon is described, who runs alone is quantified, murder is considered, the use of a skinner box is mentioned, and Ashe finds the stuff that dreams are made of.

My Thoughts and Summary:
The old man is an Ossuarist, and lives where the tunnel intersects at four tunnels with a grate in the floor to help with smell.  The Ossuarist asks what they lost as no one comes searching here for nothing.  There is mentions again of a dragon who eats lost souls.

The Ossuarist says water mongers do come through once in a while, but does remember a last one with Constables chasing.  One alone with a green shirt.  He remembers as he found her body later, recognizing the clothes.

The Ossuarist gives something to Ashe she claims is what dreams are made of...the Articles!  I'm curious what's in these Articles and of the Engine Dragon!

####################

Episode:  43 of 44, Book Two: Mouths of the Dead

Format:  Podcast; 13:29 minutes

Synopsis:
Above The Six Evils

In which Cardor attempts to clean up a mess, Ashe leaves in haste, a murderer is accused, the police are called, a chase is given, Ashe considers a choice, and a leap is made.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Cardor is waiting for Ashe, missed her entrance, but sees the trail of sewer muck she's left.  As she leaves her room he finds her, but she's in to much of a hurry for her story to talk, and leaves her door open...  Ashe meets with Zeuli, Mosul's sister, and confronts her.

We learn of a piece of the Articles, any water monger is allowed to sell water.  We learn what the lost thing the founders of Amperstam was trying to work past in this city's setting.  The coppers were called on Ashe and Ashe is on the run!  She has solved the mystery of the acrobat girl, the missing Articles, but put herself in danger.

Hanner Gatling is remembered and Ashe makes a jump, a daring jump.

I'm interested in what we learn of what Mosul learned from the Articles and who and why stopped.  Now, What happens to her room?  And what happens to Ashe with her jump?!!?

####################

Episode:  44 of 44, Book Two: Mouths of the Dead

Format:  Podcast; 41.27 minutes

Synopsis:
Mouths of the Dead

In which our heroine is caught, a skinner box is occupied, a ringmaster makes an appearance, the system is believed in, money changes hands, Cardor is denied, paper is printed and adventure begins anew.

My Thoughts and Summary:
First, the 41 minutes of this episode are not all of the story.  This was recorded at Balticon, and we learn a lot about the graphic novel and the podcast series as Jared started this two years ago.

Olig, the Lead Constable, catches Ashe and puts her in the skinner box.  Ashe is released with the help of the Circus Ringmaster, and learns what happened to her room.

When talking another Constable mentions something about not being involved with the Provosts actions.  There is clearly a hint that there is more going on here than anyone is willing to share, or wants to share.  They knew more of Mosul and Provost and the engine.  The night Constable hints at the acknowledges of the Provost killing Mosul, but we don't know how.  However there are lots of terrible screams that went with it.

We learn more of what's in the Articles.  Ashe uses it to her advantage to get a word in with the Constables.

The title of the second book is picked from this episode.  Mouth of the Dead, which is referenced to Ashe's paper, speaking for the deaths and unfair deaths of others.

Ashe returns to the Redlaw Inn to find Cardor and her press waiting outside.  Ashe gets upset with Cardor as he claims "he can't protect her any longer."  Ashe feels she doesn't need protected and doesn't want it.  The book had started with this same thinking towards Tolban as well.

We end with ships and explosions out in the sky.  This will lead us into the graphic novel next!  Off to read it now.



If you would like to Listen to the stories about Ashe, you can find Fables of the Flying City free on the site for Fables of the Flying City: http://www.fablesoftheflyingcity.com/  There are links to iTunes and RSS feed.  You can also see the list of episodes in their order on Jared Axelrod's site.

If you are curious about the Graphic Novel, it is now available!  The Battle of Blood and Ink by Jared Axelrod and Steve Walker.  You can view a sample of the first 20 pages on Tor's site.

Teaser Tuesday (132)

Teaser Tuesday

is a weekly event

Sponsored by MizB of Should be Reading

Here's how it works:

Grab the book you are currently reading (anything at all)

Open the book to any random page.

Share 2 teaser sentences from anywhere on the page

Please Make Sure They Are Not Spoilers!

(Don't Give Too Much Away)

Just enough to pique our interests

This Week:

Yy'voury's words carried more weight than they outwardly appeared.  Revik's took a step back.

Shades of War
By:  Sarah-Jane lehoux
145pg

Cover and Description Release: Fathom

I've found a new Young Adult book that will be coming out October 1, 2012.  And I think you all would enjoy it.  It sounds like it has a Celtic blend and the sea is included as well.

After you read the description of the book jump over to Merrie Destefano's blog to read the first chapter.  I will say after reading this first chapter I'm curious; about Kira the main character, her mother and sister, and what is to come from her heritage and sea!  Yea, one to check out.

Fathom

By:  Merrie Destefano

Due Out:  October 1, 2012

(Young Adult)

Description:

Everything is changing . . .

Turning sixteen can be hell, especially if everyone in town thinks your mother killed herself and your sister. All Kira Callahan wants to do is swim, hang out with her best friend, Sean, and ignore the kids who torment her at school. That is, until one day when she gets invited to a party. For three minutes her life is wonderful—she even kisses Sean in the driveway. Then somebody spikes her drink at the party and some girls from out of town lure her into the ocean and hold her underwater. 

Kira soon discovers that the group of wild teenagers who have come to visit Crescent Moon Bay are not as innocent as they seem. In fact, nothing is as it seems—not the mysterious deaths of her sister and mother, not her heritage, not even her best friend. And everything seems to hinge on the ancient Celtic legends that her mother used to tell her as a child.

What do you think?  Okay, like I promised there is the first chapter up on Merrie's blog for your reading.  I will say it caught my eye, and makes me want the book even more.  I love the sounds of the sea and mysteries to this story!

Does Merrie's name sound familiar to you?  This is the first YA book she has published, but she has 3 adult books out:

Feast  (Harvest of Dreams #1)

Afterlife  (The Resurrection Chronicles #1)

Waiting for Midnight (anthology of short stories by Merrie)

Book Review: The Ripple Effect

The Ripple Effect

By:  J.A. Saare

Publisher:  Mundania Press

Publish Date:  July 31, 2012

Format:  eARC

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Series:  3rd book in Rhiannon's Laws series; 1st Book ~ Dead, Undead or Somewhere in Between, 2nd Book ~ The Renfield Syndrome

Recommendation:  You've come this far, you probably want to know what happens with Rhiannon and Disco and Paine, so keep going.

Book Synopsis:
There is always a price to pay...

Rhiannon Murphy visited the future, witnessed hell on earth and made choices to change things for the greater good.  Unfortunately there are consequences for her actions, the penalties for her interference possibly more than she can bear.  Determined to sever her debt with a fallen angel, she pushes everything aside, focusing on locating Marigold Vesta's resting place.

Until death comes knocking at her door.

When Disco's maker arrives in New York, he resents Rhiannon on a level she can't begin to comprehend.  Yet Marius isn't her most dangerous adversary, not by a long shot.  Marius's sire -- a half-demon -- is determined to see the necromancer who stunned the vampire world on her knees.  If she won't bend, he'll do everthing in his power to make her break.  No price is too high, meaning no one is safe -- including Disco and Paine.

Dealt a blow from which she can never recover, Rhiannon turns to the only person who can help her: the fallen angel who is relying on Rhiannon to save her soul.  Bartering with a creature from Heaven is probably just as dangerous as starting a war with a demon from hell, but with nothing to lose it's no longer about life or death.

It's about getting even.

First Sentence:
Rhiannon's Law #47: It doesn't take a rocket scientist to be MacGyver.

My Thoughts and Summary:
We are reminded of past events and Paine feels something bad will happen to Rhiannon for messing with fate and saving Disco.  Rhiannon is out of away-time as Disco's Master, Marius, is coming to town to check in on him and Rhiannon since Rhiannon was strong enough to kill the half-demon, Graham Tavish, and if he does not feel satisfied with their respective feelings could view Rhiannon as a threat.  Being Marius's maker is half-demon, Revenald, he could consider Rhiannon a threat for what she possesses.  While many half-demons in the mortal world wants her dead, Rhiannon has a list of things to do.  Find Victoria Delcroix and prevent a terrible future from happening by killing her like she promised.  A debt to be paid to a fallen angel by finding her resting place.  Stay safe.  All on top of convincing the older vampire and his half-demon sire she is not a threat to there being along with saving her friend and lover who will do anything to protect her.  All before her time runs out, or the half-demons come for her.

We start in with it being weeks since Rhiannon has seen Disco, now after she'd been beaten by her ghost possessed close friend, she sees Paine and Disco.  You can feel the tension here in this triangle.  She loves Disco but terrified of him after his behavior at the end of The Renfield Syndrome.  Disco and Rhiannon are in a complicated place.  He really screwed up at the end of The Renfield Syndrome, to the point of abusive in a sense, when he lost control.  Rhiannon is trying to deal as she loves Disco yet not ready to hand over the trust he broke.

All starts simple with all Rhiannon's troubles easily laid out.  Now she just has to figure out how to deal with them all at the same time while they conflict with each other and her plans.

All that is going on in Rhiannon's world is laid out for us quickly in the beginning.  Easily placed to layer on the colossal tasks she has to conquer in different areas to keep herself, and friends, safe.  One of the things she needs to do to seal her debt is to have a sacrifice.  This will get Rhiannon tangled into a murder spree going on in town, and bring in a new character that makes us curious about him, Bane the weapons dealer.

I had a few things that didn't blend as well for me this round.  I'm one for things on a time frame adding up together, and I felt there where a few placed is was a little off.  And I didn't seem to feel for Rhiannon as I had in the past books.

I do love Disco, in the first book, and so glad to have him back here.  I understand in part his jealousy, but at times he comes across a bit to possessive.  I understand he's a ruling Vampire in the House, in the City!, but at a few moments sets me back as he's not the same easy going Disco from book one.  And Rhiannon is so confused in her thinking where Disco is concerned.  Love him, yet so hurt still.  Then stuck in a game with him and Paine due to Marius.  Part of me things Disco is rather stressed here too.

For me this book has moved this Urban Fantasy series into the Romance side of the genre.  Rhiannon still has her strong tough exterior, but she struggles a great deal in this book with her love for two men.  She figures out what those feelings are for each, but there is a focus there along with her debts and promises.  This one also felt as a transition book, leading us to the next book to come.  I felt we didn't get much resolve on the fallen angel and stirred things up with the vampire/demon world.  The main point in this book for me was it brought Rhiannon's relationship with Disco to a point.

If you want to try this series out:

Start with the first book, Dead, Undead or Somewhere In Between

If you are ready for the third book:

Amazon ~ Print:

Amazon ~ Ebook:

I read this book from the author for an honest review.

Monday's Beginnings (157)

And it's Monday...

It was a blah weekend.  Lots of running around for school shopping for the kid.  And he has become picky in his clothing choices and slow at trying one.  *sigh*  Hello teenage years. *shacks head*  So needless to say not much reading done.  Last week I was rather slow at reading as well.  I've got two books going and started listening to my next podcast story.  I'll finish up posting on Fables of the Flying City this week, and start with this story next week...that's the plan at the moment.

I plan on finishing one of the books by Wednesday, maybe Tuesday, and the other by the end of the week.  Then I'll be starting into Fool Moon as I've been told I need to get back to the Dresden series. ;)

Current Read:
Shadows Before the Sun by Kelly Gay
Shades of War by Sarah-Jane Lehoux

Finished Last Week:
Nope, sorry, no books finished.

Reviews to Come:
The Ripple Effect by J.A. Saare
Tethered by Meljean Brook
Spirits Rising by Krista D. Ball
The Dragonslayer's Sword by Resa Nelson
Full Blooded by Amanda Carlson
Bloodhound by S.A. Archer & S. Ravynheart
Hunter of the Dead by Katee Robert
The Battle of Blood and Ink by Jared Axelrod & Steve Walker

Book Reviews Posted:
The Janus Affair: A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Novel by Tee Morris & Philippa Ballantine
Thirteen by Kelley Armstrong

Movie Review Posted:
Tower Heist

Podcast Reviews Posted:
Fables of the Flying City Ep 38-41

Books and Covers Shared:
Vampire Voyage by Kelly Lougheed

Special Posts:
Giveaway of:  The Janus Affair by Tee Morris & Philippa Ballantine
My Next Listen... Its a sexy story that you can purchase the book or listen for free.
Stop 2 on the book chat on Shadows Before the Sun
Freebies and Deals, on Nook too (22)

Sorry, I didn't do a Flash Fiction Friday.  I had an idea pop into my head and was busy thinking on that story line.

My WANT List...I only added 3 books.  I would have had 4 but couldn't find one.  Oh well.  That list is amazingly to long to begin with these days.

Received Last Week:
Purchased:

Fool Moon by Jim Butcher
Goodreads Synopsis:
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...

Changes by Jim Butcher
Goodreads Synopsis:
Long ago, Susan Rodriguez was Harry Dresden's lover-until she was attacked by his enemies, leaving her torn between her own humanity and the bloodlust of the vampiric Red Court. Susan then disappeared to South America, where she could fight both her savage gift and those who cursed her with it.

Now Arianna Ortega, Duchess of the Red Court, has discovered a secret Susan has long kept, and she plans to use it-against Harry. To prevail this time, he may have no choice but to embrace the raging fury of his own untapped dark power. Because Harry's not fighting to save the world...

He's fighting to save his child.

Downloaded:
The first 5 Chapters to listen to.

Avalon Revisited by O.M. Grey
Goodreads Synopsis:
Arthur has made his existence as a vampire bearable for over three hundred years by immersing himself in blood and debauchery. Aboard an airship gala, he meets Avalon, an aspiring vampire slayer who sparks fire into Arthur’s shriveled heart. Together they try to solve the mystery of several horrendous murders on the dark streets of London. Cultures clash and pressures rise in this sexy Steampunk Romance.

So...how was your week last week?  How does this week look for you?

I'm hoping to get lots cleared up on my list this week, and get reviews written I didn't get done over the weekend.

Here's wishing you all the best in words and pages this week.

Freebie and Deals, for Nook too (22)

As every week, I share with you the link to the thread of Freebie Friday on Barnes and Nobles.  Do hope you enjoy and find one you like.

I've been on the slack-y side this week as I've been busy with work.  But I found one freebie on Nook.

I've been reading the three affiliated series of novella's with Fey and Sidhe.  The first book for Rise of the Unseelie is now available for free on Nook.

Aftershock by S. Ravynheart & S.A. Archer
   Barnes Nobles~ Nook
Goodreads Synopsis:
(The Rise of the Unseelie # 1)

The day the Mounds collapsed Jhaer, leader of the Unseelie Elite, sacrificed his strength, his magic, and his very life to save his world.

It wasn’t enough.

He thought that was the end of his story… Instead it is the beginning.

Deals!
I read and absolutely loved this Novella.  It is on the top of my Top Novellas read in the last year.  Actually, best in a long while.
Now it's available for a short time for 99c. 

Blooded by Amanda Carlson    Amazon~ Kindle     Barnes and Nobles~ Nook
Goodreads Synopsis:
Jessica McClain was born the only female in an all male race. The only problem is-she's no wolf. Called a curse, a witch and the Daughter of Evil by the superstitious wolves, Jessica decides to fight for her freedom, at age nineteen, the only way she can-in the ring. 
When she's brutally attacked right after her fight, is it enough to finally earn her freedom off Compound, or will she be forced to endure the hatred even longer . . . 

Movie Review: Tower Heist

Tower Heist

Released:  2011

Rated:  PG-13

Genre:  Comedy, Crime, Action

Length:  104mins, 1hr 44mins

Recommendation:  Yes, don't go in expecting a great big laugh, but it's enjoyable in itself.

Synopsis:
Josh Kovacs is the manager of a residential apartment in New York.  He is close to all the tenants, especially Arthur Shaw, a financier.  One day Shaw is arrested by the FBI for fraud.  Josh thinks it's a misunderstanding that can be resolved.  But later he learns that the employees' pension which he asked Shaw to handle is gone.  When one of the employees tries to kill himself, Josh's views of Shaw change.  he goes to see him and loses his temper.  He loses his job.  The FBI agent in charge of Shaw tells him that Shaw might walk and recovering the pension fund us unlikely.  She tells him that it's been rumored that Shaw has 20 million laying around if he needs.  Josh thinks he knows where it is.  So with two other employees who also lost their jobs and an evicted tenant, they set out to get into Shaw's penthouse to get the money.  But they realize they need the assistance of someone who knows what they are doing...

My Thoughts and Summary:
Josh manages a high end apartment complex in New York.  The tenants have become familiar with the employees and like wise back.  On tenant, a financier Arthur Shaw, has been arrested by FBI for fraud and stealing.  Josh learns that the pensions of his and his employees is now gone.  Everyone has nothing.  And one employee was getting ready to retire in a month, and after trying to commit suicide we learn all his savings over 70+ years is gone after giving it to Shaw to invest.  Josh starts to think on the "friend" Shaw and confronts him, causing him to loose his job and opening Josh's eyes that something needs to be done.  When Josh learns from the FBI agent that people like Shaw always have something stashed away, he starts thinking and remembers something Shaw did years ago.  Deciding to get back at Shaw, and help his ex-employees.

First I was surprised by the faces I recognized in this movie.  There were lots of actors/actresses I have seen over the years.  And enjoyed seeing them show up here.  Ben Stiller is in this, I'm not always a fan of his but this movie worked for me.  Eddie Murphy was in this one as well, and for me, he's the one that made the movie better.  For some reason his delivery of jokes make me laugh.

I didn't know what to expect when I ordered this one through Netflix.  Really.  Looked like fun, and it was.  Oh there are a few things that these people do that are impossible, but it's just fun.  Don't think of it as seriousness.

I have to say I enjoyed watching this one as it's the little guy getting back at the powerful typhoon.  I really enjoyed the way they worked to become thieves and the outcome of it.  Just a fun watch.

The husband watched it with me and was surprised as well.  Not one to go to the movies over, but one to relax at home and pop into the DVD player.  I say don't go in expecting a big laugh, or looking to correct the goofy things they do, just let it be and take it for face value.  You might smile and enjoy then.

Looking Forward To...(108)

There are so many amazing books already on the shelves and new ones coming out.

For a list of books yet to be released I'm looking to get, you can also look on my right Sidebar at the ever growing list titled Desired Reads - just scroll down. Of course there are tones of other new books to come out that are amazing as well, but these ones are part of series I have already started or for one reason or another caught my eye (and haven't seen much on other blogs yet). But I will highlight one here each week.

(mentioned in order of Release Date then Alphabetical if there are more than one book coming out on the same date.)

Next Book Is...

Outpost

By:  Ann Aguirre

Due Out:  September 4, 2012

Oh, I loved the first book with my kid.  It was the first book we read together (other than as a little kid where I read to him) and we enjoyed.  We talked about it and he really seemed to have a wonderful take and feel for the story.  I'm hoping he'll do the same with me on this one.  Maybe if I tell him how everyone enjoyed his review with me on Enclave, he'll be willing to do the same this time...

Review:  Enclave

Goodreads Synopsis:
Deuce’s whole world has changed. Down below, she was considered an adult. Now, topside in a town called Salvation, she’s a brat in need of training in the eyes of the townsfolk. She doesn’t fit in with the other girls: Deuce only knows how to fight.

To make matters worse, her Hunter partner, Fade, keeps Deuce at a distance. Her feelings for Fade haven’t changed, but he seems not to want her around anymore. Confused and lonely, she starts looking for a way out.

Deuce signs up to serve in the summer patrols—those who make sure the planters can work the fields without danger. It should be routine, but things have been changing on the surface, just as they did below ground. The Freaks have grown smarter. They’re watching. Waiting. Planning. The monsters don’t intend to let Salvation survive, and it may take a girl like Deuce to turn back the tide.

Throwback Thursday (79)

I found this picture of Trinity College Library, and thought it would work for this meme with a little play with lighting and adding the words.

Let's talk about those books already on the shelves, yours or the stores.

I have a post for books I'm looking forward to coming out;

Unk

Looking Forward To...

But what about all those wonderful books that are ALREADY on the shelves.

Whether it be on your shelf waiting to be read or on the shelves in the stores waiting for you to give it a good home.

So, I thought I would share a book a week that is just waiting for me to travel through it's world.

Now... where do I start? Lets go by Published Date on the books...

This Week:

Well, dang.  I think so many of you have read this one and enjoyed the series thus far.  And it's another I really do want to get to as it sounds like a series of kick butt that I would enjoy.  I really like detective reads and magic mixed together.  And this has that feel to it.

Goodreads Synopsis:

Shiarra Waynest's detective work was dangerous enough when her client base was strictly mortal. But ailing finances have forced her to accept a lucrative case that could save her firm - if it doesn't kill her first. Shiarra has signed on to work for a high-level mage to recover an ancient artifact owned by one of New York's most powerful vampires. As soon as Shiarra meets sexy, mesmerizing vamp Alec Royce, she knows her assignment is even more complicated than she thought. With a clandestine anti-Other group trying to recruit her, and magi being eliminated, Shiarra needs back-up and enlists her ex-boyfriend - a werewolf whose non-furry form is disarmingly appealing - and a nerdy mage with surprising talents. But it may not be enough. In a city where the undead roam, magic rules, and even the Others aren't always what they seem, Shiarra has just become the secret weapon in a battle between good and evil - whether she likes it or not...

Blog Book Chat, Stop 2 of Shadows Before the Sun

Alright, lets get right to the action here.  Where we stopped, it was a tough doing.  So, lets chat so we can get back to Charlie and see what the heck happens next!

****There Will Be Spoilers in the questions and comments****

Robyn's Questions:
1.)  What did you think of Charlie's power?  Could it even advance more?
2.)  Will Hank Come back now?  Or will it be awhile until we see old Hank?
3.)  What did you think of Sandra's fate?
4.)  The shadows.  Thoughts?

Melissa's Questions:
1.)  What curse do you think will be attached to Hank now? Just knowing these two extremely powerful words and being the only one or more?
2.)  Each time Charlie sees the Sachath it seems to be more humanoid looking, what is it trying to say to her?  How do you think she is to defeat it?
3.)  What more is coming?  Sandra mentioned she had seen images or scenes, and that Leander is on the right side, so what is coming?

Anything additional you would like to talk about, just mention in the comments.  Next week we will chat over the finale of the book!

Book Review: Thirteen

Thirteen

By:  Kelley Armstrong

Publisher:  Dutton Books

Publish Date:  July 29, 2012

Format:  Hardcover, 444pgs

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Series:  13th in The Otherworld series; Book 11 ~ Waking the Witch, Book 12 ~ Spell Bound

Recommendation:  Yes! You get to see the war brewing in all realms and come to a close with the characters.

Book Synopsis:
Ir's been more than ten years, a dozen installments and hundreds of thousands of copies since Kelley Armstrong introduced readers to the all-too-real denizens of the Otherworld: witches, werewolves, necromancers, vampires, and half-demons, among others.  And it's all been leading to Thirteen, the final installment, the novel that brings all of these stories to a stunning conclusion.

A war is brewing -- the first battle has been waged, and Savannah Levine, a young witch of remarkable power and a dangerous pedigree, is left standing, albeit battered and bruised.  She has rescued her half brother from supernatural medical testing, but he's fighting to stay alive.  The Supernatural Liberation Movement took him hostage, and they have a maniacal plan to expose the supernatural world to the unknowing.

Savannah has called upon her inner energy to summon spells with frightening strength, a strength she never knew she had, as she fights to keep her world from shattering.  But it's more than a matter of supernaturals against one another -- both heaven and hell have entered the war; hellhounds, genetically modified werewolves, and all forces of good and evil have joined the fray.

Uniting Savannah with Adam, Elena, Clay Paige, Lucas, Jaime, Hope and other lost-but-not-forgotten characters in one epic battle, Thirteen is a thrilling deeply satisfying closer for Armstrong's legions of fans.

First Sentence:
Typical guy.  You fight through hell -- literally, hacking through legions of beasts and zombies and demon-spawn -- to sneak home and spend a few stolen minutes with him...and he's not there.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Heaven and Hell are just as divided as the supernaturals in the human world.  Lots of fighting on supernaturals coming out to the humans and Lord Balaam has decided to Rule in the human world.  Savannah has to find a way to get through the paranormal world on her minimal magic now, and has picked up quickly and is a major piece in the war to come, fighting rogue drugged werewolves, hellhounds, and a sorcerer, along with demons.  All to be surprised with someone's visit.  The Supernatural Liberation Movement is fighting to show the world who the supernatural are, and change it for them, along with the vaccine of 'immortality' as well.

We start exactly where Spell Bound ended with Savannah, Bryce and Adam walking away from the lab that just blew up and fell down around them.  The vaccine...do you remember the virus from Spell Bound?  Yeap, it's back.  Hot and heavy mess with it here.  We are reminded of this that will grant immortality with a mix of supernatural DNA in it.  We learn more about this vaccine, which is a virus.

Savannah's mom is found to be more special than suspected and coveted by others.  Putting Savannah and Jaime Vegas on the radar for trouble.  Then we have Hope, who comes to the foreground due to who her father is.  All our characters in the Underworld series are in teams working on this huge issue of breakouts and the SLAM (the Supernatural Liberation Movement, as Savannah has branded them) group.

Savannah gets some treasured time with someone special.  She has also learned to handle being weak in the magic area, learning to adapt in other ways, making her a stronger person.

Some references back to Waking the Witch and Spell Bound in the case we are working through.  I'm sure more references are made to the other ten books as well, with the characters showing up, but shame on me for not reading them yet.

The book is from Savannah's point of view.  But there is a chapter here and there that are of anothers eyes so we see and know whats happening and getting a bigger story.  The characters he hear from briefly: Jaime, Elena, Paige, Hope, and Eve.

Oh, and if you are curious about Savannah and Adam.  Well, you'll have to read the book.  ;)

This story I think YA readers could easily follow through with from the previous two books.  I will mention there is sexual content, not that you get details while happening, but you know it's happened.  So safe it's to read.

I will say I do love Savannah and hope to see her in a few short stories in the future.  It would be nice to see these characters, the ones that make it out, again.  And there are a few stories here to be told.

I really enjoy this vast world of demons, witches, werewolves, vampires, and so much more supernatural.  Definitely a series to visit with so much available in it.  Well done Kelley.  I do want more, and will have to pick up the beginning books to get it, and hope for future tales as well.

From Russia, with Love
This is a short story at the end of the book that I think many long time series followers will love.  Where the series started, it should end as well.  Very nice touch by Kelley.  I don't want to give anything away as it's full from the start, and might also give you something about the ending of Thirteen as well.

I even enjoyed reading this short story and getting to see the twins, and more action with the characters.  I think it would be wonderful if Kelley could pick up with the twins in the future, for short stories and such.

Need to purchase it?

Amazon Print:

Amazon Ebook:

I read this book for an honest review from the Publicist.

Who? What? Where? (79)

Who are you with? Where are you at? What's happening?

Share with us just a little bit of what is happening in the book you are reading, right where you are now.

Just a tiny taste of what's happening, remember try to not give spoilers of the book.

(This is a new meme I'm going to try and will tweak as I go. And please don't laugh at my lame attempt at drawing. ;D )

This Week:

I'm with Sevy as we are found in the graveyard visiting her deceased lover's grave in Devenbourn.  His mother, whom we barely know, has come by and talked the unwilling Sevy to stay and visit.  Since she was such a big part of Jarro's life for so long.

Shades of War
By:  Sarah-Jane Lehoux