Audio Book Review: Space Academy Miscreants by C.T. Phipps

Space Academy Miscreants by C. T. Phipps
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

How far will others go to get Vance to help affect politics on other planets with his new promotion to High Protector?

We are back in the saddle with Vance as we venture on. Others have moved on or moving on to great places. In doing so, we have the whole crew back together fighting with Vance. Darn, they are all such loyal friends, or...they want to see what crazy Vance will pull off again. lol

We learn A LOT in the first few paragraphs and through the first chapter! Case Gordon has a mess for Vance to take care of and... Vance learns of his daughter, who is very likely in trouble. This sparks Vance into action, which might also be a trap. But he's going.

Even though this series is set in the far future (fantasy future) in space, I love that Vance has an attraction for pop references and space and more for the 1980's, 1990's, and more. Vance loves the oldies! And so do I. There's many here I get and some I think I miss. lol. There's even a reference drop to another of C.T. Phipps's series, a universe where guys named Gary are single most important person. lol. And, Major Tom.

As always, action, fun, and quick funny lines are to be had with the book. A little drama mixed in too.

In the end, there was more to the story than I expected. I should know that by now, but still taken with the whole ending with the how and who.

BONUS:
We have a short story added to the end of this book! :D Thank you!

NOBODY'S FOOL
Vance's mission, to golf in a golf outing. And win.

When Vance and Shelly get here, Vance suspects something more is happening. Especially with the lifeform that appears to be sentient and yet it's in slavery positions. Vance's crazy notions bring us to a quick mystery to be solved. Always fun seeing the view Vance has of things...making something where others see nothing. And it's usually right.

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Lamentation by Ken Scholes

Lamentation by Ken Scholes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a re-read for me. It's been a number of years since I read it and I wanted to get back to the books so I can read the last one, which I've had on my shelves for far too long.

I have loved diving into this world and being reintroduced to the characters. The ones that are in the wrong are found. And those who have good intentions are found too.

But...are they created by another? Influenced into who they are and what they do?

There's an interesting play in the background of this book that has me curious and searching for what's related and connected.

The world is just opening up to us and there's so much more to come. We have just started to peel back the layers to learn what's happening. And many characters are seeing this is going deeper than they ever could have imagined.

Neb is one of my favorite characters. Along with the strong Jin Li Tam. These two overcome some great events and knowledge, all to grow into stronger people. Petronus is one who sees and knows more than we could imagine. I'm looking forward to seeing what he will share with us in the coming books. All the characters really. They all are starting to put things together and there's more here than meets the eye.

Such great writing. I love the crafting that's gone into creating these characters and world. This is the first book and I look forward to digging in deeper with the characters.

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Audio Book Review: Echoes of the System by Carrie Summers

Echoes of the System by Carrie Summers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Devon has a number of things happening in game, like finding Stonehaven and then a new boss arrives that only she can solve, while also dealing with people in person. Emerson has asked if she wants to move to his area, she has a surprise visitor that's not really welcome, and her friends want to meet. A lot for someone that's not really a people person.

I love the beginning! I took a break between books and the author did a great job of weaving past events into the story happening. Because the characters are all still a little shellshocked. Great catchup with not retelling the story. It all plays into what's happening now.

The game world and characters created there are amazing. I love how the NPC's have become friends and important in everyone's life, especially for Devon.

This is a great story of events and happenings for the characters in game and in life. I loved the way it was all done. This book ties a lot of things up. Almost a finally, as there's not another one. (Yet?) We still have the looming possible threat of more demons, but in a game there's always something to come.

This series is definitely worth a listen or read.

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Audio Book Review: Outcast by Lindsey Sparks

Outcast by Lindsey Sparks
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book is Kat in hiding yet drawing attention from the Senate to find her. She learns about a disease that's been released on the humans by the kids that were in the lab she and her clan destroyed. Can she find a cure for those that are sick?

This book had more to it that felt like the story continues. There feels to be one direction with the story, not much in side stories to fill things out. We do have Kat finding "love" and happy for a moment. This is tied to the overall events and in the end felt convenient to me. Or maybe it's leading to a love triangle... That feel is potential as well.

The fight scenes felt a little better in this one as we get to see more in fights.

I felt there was something that happened that was a convenience for the characters.... Like how did one character get sick and another that is sick can be around people then... Again, I have to go listen to these sections again (if I can find them) to get answers. It's kind of vague whether one character touched anything or not to get sick.

I wanted so much to enjoy this series, but it just doesn't feel like it's for me. I'm sure others are loving it though.

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Audio Book Review: Ink Witch by Lindsey Fairleigh (Sparks)

Ink Witch by Lindsey Sparks
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I'm going to try the next book too. The book is good. The main character, Kat Dubois, is in essence my kind of main character. She's a loner and has a past that....well, could land her in jail if she was human and people knew.

Kat's a Nejeret, which is a demi-god(dess). She has done work for the Shadow Senate that she's trained for and used as a weapon. Her and her kind are long lived and don't age. With that, she's going to be around for a long time remembering her past.

So why is the book just good?
I felt like Kat came to a couple quick realizations that didn't seem to be lead up to in the events that happened. They were talked about, but didn't feel like the events in her life really made her see what someone else was telling her. Just like she was taking that persons word as her a-ha moment.

I'm one who enjoys a good fight scene. I felt like the fight scenes weren't detailed out enough or last like they should for someone who's to have her experience. I'm hoping more will come and this first book, being short, is the beginning to lead us into what's to come.

I did learn this is a series spin off from another. I'll have to go pick up that other series and see if it helps place some things that Kat was talking about in her past in this book. Though, I'm afraid that series is more a romance urban fantasy.... We'll see in the future.

This book does start the series arc for what's happening to her clan people and children. This is going to lead to so much more.

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Short Story: Gifts by Lindsay Buroker

Gifts by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a Bonus Story at the end of Secrets of the Sword 3 audiobook. About 45 minutes of the total is this story.

This was fun seeing how everyone finds their way to Val's door. Each is different. Seeing them together at Christmas time is fun. They are an odd group of friends that fit together so well.

Zav has really come around to be a great partner and fiancé for Val. He's a little off the mark in how he does things, which make it funny, but he's got the right idea and his heart's in the right place.

Val's daughter... I find the way she's written is on the selfish side. I know she's a teen. I know Val's not been there. I know Thad has done the same thing as he doesn't know what to do. All she wants is money, and lots of money, for doing things. It's meant to be fun in the series as how Val responds too. But, ugh. She's gotten a bit better as the series goes.

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Audio Book Review: Secrets of the Sword III by Lindsay Buroker

Secrets of the Sword III by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Everything comes together... And everyone.

I started this series because I loved Val's determination and snark. And she still has that in the end. She's turned her life around in some ways, like how she handles the job she does. Sure, she's still an assassin, but not everyone she goes after needs to be exterminated. They can be handled other ways, as she's learned from Zav. And some of her adventures are due to Zav's enemies or target.

Val gets the training with her sword while seeing so many foes and relations from the past creep in to see her. It was fun seeing people from her past make an appearance in this book. And they fit in!

Val has people that are after her, because Ruin Bringer name and her past, while she's dealing with lots of family elves visiting. Along with her father, the King, and the dragons coming, including the Queen. All for her wedding.

I wanted to see how the wedding would turn out. Because, in Val's line of work, there's only one way this could go down. And I loved it! Fun for everyone! lol.

I enjoyed Lindsay's writing in this series and will come around to her other series' in the future. They are fun and snarky like I like.

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Audio Book Review: Secrets of the Sword 2 by Lindsay Buroker

Secrets of the Sword II by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dimitri's art is causing trouble? A detective (human) is investigating one of his door knockers....that breath a burst of fire. Val is trying to track down a half dwarf thief that's stealing magical artifacts. And to find a dwarf that can help her learn more of Chopper, her dragon slaying sword. All while planning a wedding, which Zav has great plans for his dragon family (if they agree to come) and everyone he meets is invited.

Val has her plate full!

In visiting the Dwarf world, Zav and Val learn that all the dwarves have gone to ground, and haven't surfaced. While there, Val learns that there's more going on here than they knew. There's a lich, dragon? That doesn't seem possible...

Val finds her half dwarf thief, to learn that she may be the one heir of Chopper. What will Val do if she really is of the family that made the sword... will she give it back?

I like seeing Val and Zav together. Their relationship is fun. They trust each other in battle and fight on. That's the best part for me. Yes, Zav wants his mate safe, and knows that fighting dragons is dangerous for half humans, but he's proud of her abilities. And she fights! Val doesn't back down. I love this with Urban Fantasy. There's adventure and battles.

They may be in a relationship, but it doesn't distract from what's really happening in the world. We get the events as Val does work. I do enjoy that their relationship if fun with their quick clips. Val still teases Zav with things he's starting to learn. Also, Zav starts to tease Val back.

Dimitri and Nin have their own case to see about learning more. That would be a fun novella to see them, or Nin, out to learn more on what happened with one of Dimitri's customers and a deadly door knocker. This does get resolved in this book.

Val comes face to face with someone that's similar to her. She gets to thinking on being a half human and another magical heritage.

Things conclude with the arc of this book, but we have one more book to listen to. And the wedding of the century to see. :)

Can't wait.

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Book Review: Guardian of Defiance by Michelle Manus

Guardian of Defiance: A Nyx Fortuna Novel by Michelle Manus
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Where are my TRUE Urban Fantasy fans?
The ones looking for gritty fantasy in a modern setting. Not the ones looking for romance (that may happen as a side but NOT the focus of the story).

Yes, you. I'm talking to you.

I've read so many Urban Fantasy books where the evil badie pulls their punches. So much potential and promises that do NOT follow through, weakening their standing in the world.

Well, I'm thrilled to say, Michelle has earned my respect with this book and events that come to pass. Michelle doesn't pull her punches to win hearts. She plays it straight as her characters are, leaning full into their personalities as authors should do. Michelle does the tough and gritty, as expected in fantasy. Her bad guys do what they say they'll do, even though I don't want it to happen. They can kill, have killed, and will kill.

We learn more about the Harvester. Oh so neat. I have a feeling this is going to come in handy! There's more to the Stations creation and I need to know all the things about it. The promise Nyx has with the Station is important, so I'm looking forward to seeing how this will come to pass. I have a feeling it's going to be a big arc with a few other things, and can't wait to see how it all works and comes together.

I'm convinced the printing press blurred the last pages of this book on purpose. (I'm not crying, you are!) Yes, my heart is hurting. But the writing of all of this, just wow how the author works it all. To make me feel such emotions is powerful, and Michelle did it. She made me love, care, and want and to see what happens...there's going to be a lot to work out. And I know Michelle will do it. Every word Michelle uses is powerful.

Nyx has a new relationship budding. No. It's not romantic. Remember, I'm not looking for romance, because there ARE other types of relationships that mean the world to us.

It's great to see Nyx with Jevryn. The clashing yet similarities. And I want to learn more of what Jevryn knows - so, so much knowledge there! And his ability!

Nyx has a lot to work through personally after this book. I'm looking forward to how this will happen and work out. And, I may be a little interested in how the bad guy is taken care of. Because I totally want him taken care of. lol

So much to see and learn. I can't wait for more Nyx and carrying out her promises.

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Audio Book Review: Secrets of the Sword 1 by Lindsay Buroker

Secrets of the Sword I by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Val's not one to be...gentle about how she handles things. Especially a strange artifact that's poisoning wildlife at a farm. The magic from the artifact turns Chopper into a beacon for any and all magical beings in this world and others to come take it.

Val is great at fighting, and crowing stronger with her magic usage but there's only so many attacks at one time a person can defend against. Zav will help. Either scare them off or fight them off.

Seeing Zav and Val together, fighting and interacting, is fun. Their relationship is growing and their banter is fun as Zav is still learning sayings and things in the human world. However, there are still men that hit on his mate. Zav doesn't like it. He can't figure out why humans don't see the magical mark he's put on Val.

Willard points out that there's a way to show men that Val's taken. Put a ring on her finger...Marriage is the human way. Now, Zav is determined to find the perfect ring for Val. One with magic. However, Val doesn't think she's ready for marriage. Not yet...

Val has someone after her in all of this!

I like seeing how Val is starting to control her Elven magic and use it. She's gaining the ability to defend and even starting to learn something that could be offensive too. We also see that Val is growing in her personal relationships! We see her with her daughter and those who have become close friends. She still has moments where people are in danger because of their connection to Val, but it doesn't feel to be as personal as when the series started. These people know the risks and accept them. Heck, they even dive in to the risks to help Val.

It's so fun that people think she's weird. Val has her own way about things, and she's found the perfect person, erm dragon, that fits her. What she likes to do and say, they fit as a pair.

In spending all this time together, and then what Zav does for her, Val will start to see what she truly feels of their relationship... will she be ready to get married?

Val also starts to see Chopper, her dragon slaying sword, in a new light. Finding out more about this sword would be a great idea...

I'm loving these books. I'll be on to the next soon!

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Audio Book Review: Storm Forged by Lindsay Buroker

Storm Forged by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Val comes face to face with more of Zav's family problems. Politics mostly. Dragons are all about politics among the Dragon Court for power. And Val is just a tiny mongrel in the mix.

Val is moved into her new home with her new roommates... Dimitri, Freysha, and the vampire in the basement, Zoltan. As she feared, the house is full of mold. And Val's lungs aren't dealing well with the mold. She doesn't want anyone to know she has a weakness as Zav and others are seeing her as a warrior. And if Zav knew....would he still want her at his side?

At their first "family" dinner, where Val's ex-husband and daughter come along with others, things go sideways when a gnome rushes into the back yard and collapses.

Darn. Val really didn't want the supernatural world to know where she lived...

The trolls and dragons find her shortly after.

And a Dragon that's sent to mate with Zav. By his mother.
Val's potential love life might be over before it even gets started. If this mate can help Zav and his family with their standing on the Dragon Court...it might be for the best for his family. And he's an honorable guy like that. Right?

This book felt slightly slower for me. We learn more about Zav's family and their history, Val's father when here, and a few other details on gnomes and Nin's grandfather. Lots of great information about everything, and we need it.

I do love that Lindsay is blending details and people from previous books into this book. Nothing is forgotten and is helpful along the way.

I'm breezing right through these audio books and I'm ready to dive into the next.

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Audio Book Review: False Security by Lindsay Buroker

False Security by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Val is her own person and has bills to pay, like the jeep that was totaled months ago when that black dragon *cough* Zav *cough* threw it in the trees when they first met. So she takes a job as a body guard when approached. The pay was such that she couldn't pass it up.

However, Zav is not too happy about it. First, he wants to take Val to learn her magic so no one can compel her to do things, like kill him. Second, he doesn't trust that male.

Val... wins yet doesn't win. lol.

Val also is growing closer to the group of friends she's created.... Dimitri, Nin, Zoltan (if you want to call him a friend as a vampire that wants to taste her blood with dragon aura), and the group is growing.

Dimitri wants to open his own store with Zoltan and asks Nin for help. Val thinks about joining in too! All until Dimitri goes missing while looking for Zoltan who's missing too. There's a connection here, and Val is determined to find her friend(s) and stop the attacks that are happening. All while working as a bodyguard and going to another world to learn her elven magic.

Val is really coming around to helping other magical beings. She's seeing they aren't all evil. Though she may have some trust issues, she's open with those she talks to and shares that. And learns to trust or start to trust those around her.

I'm hooked on these books and love seeing Val come around from a solo personality to starting to like having others around her. She's come out of her shell so much with these people. She's not the best at conversations. Val brings things up in a snarky way that her friends know well and then the conversations evolve and the important topics are discussed.

A great corky group of people that fit together.

As for the love relationship with Val and Zav.... still waiting. Some steamy kisses but that's about it for this book and so far in the series. I'm good with that. I'm here for the kick butt action and snark of Val with her friends and Zav.

The narrator is the same through the series thus far and I'm glad. She's got different voices for each of the characters which helps me differentiate between them. Always great listening.

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Audio Book Review: Elven Doom by Lindsay Buroker

Elven Doom by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lindsay is building upon her world and characters with each book. She mentions something, and it will come up in how things are done soon enough. It may be in the previous book or current book, but it's all building and growing on itself. I love seeing authors do this. They are using the growing information about magic, world, characters, and more to keep the momentum of the story going while being grounded to the world.

Val is working hard to over come her worry for others, especially when the others are telling her they are going in with their eyes open and know the consequences. They are consenting adults.

That's what's important to remember as Willard and a crew of magical soldiers go with Val on a mission in this book. And there could be casualties, but they are aware and willing. It's NOT because of Val.

Val is trying to deal with Zav's sister that's come to check Val out as she's convinced her brother is doing the wrong thing with mating with a human, half elf. Remember that last instance.... Zav's sister is going to nose into parts of Val's life that she's not going to be happy about. Along with making Zav realize there's trouble with having Val.

I feel like the tables are turned on Val here slightly. Zav is the one who now fears he'll bring danger to Val that she can't protect herself from by claiming her. Val is a strong person but dragons are significantly stronger and could be a danger to her. Val sees that in just the few dragons that she's met already. And is Zav's sister any different?

But maybe, just maybe. Val is a weak link against Zav....

This book was one to learn a little more about dragons and see about Zav and Val looking at if they really want a relationship. They will go through a tough time in figuring this out, and maybe more to come.

We see Val fighting on her own with Sindari and Willard and others that are brought in. Maybe these could be new friends for Val in the future? And we see Zav fight as well.

There are simple reasons for Zav to leave the world or to be skittish with Val regarding trust. But they feel to fit well with the characters especially after events happen.

I'll be onto the next audio book soon! I'm having fun listening to Vivienne narrate these stories.

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Audio Book Review: Tangled Truths by Lindsay Buroker

Tangled Truths by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Not all are dangerous. There are a few that are, but that doesn't mean all the beings are.

Val is trying so hard to give other beings a chance in a world that sees them all as dangerous.

I love how much Val is growing. She talks about things with everyone that she wouldn't have done before. And I don't think she knows she's doing it. This is with her mom and Zav. Her relationships are growing! All relationships.

I love her interactions with them and her snark that pops up. They are getting to know her and know what the snark means, which can lead to great personal conversations. Even with Willard, her boss. Willard and Val can snark back and forth and it's funny. They even laugh at each other.

This book is wonderful seeing Val out of her comfort zone of going in and killing. She's on a different mission, that happens to be where her ex husband and daughter and mother are vacationing. Oh boy. And Zav demands her attention, and help. lol.

Val is to see what's happening at this little vacation town and report to Willard so they can work from there. On her way, yet another dragon shows up. This one is determined to get information out of her mind on what happened to his son. Zav returns in time to protect Val, but he has a mission to find the Dark Elves so can't be here to protect her... But this new dragon is determined and Val worries he'll drag her daughter into this to get to her.

Zav and Val's relationship is different and fun. I'm starting to think only a dragon is perfect for Val. lol.

Even though we are on a mission to HELP, and Val who's struggling with how to help is doing great, we still have our battles. And Val takes on a number of dragons!

I'm having fun with this series. I'm loving the characters personalities and interactions. And fighting along with that is great for me. :)

The narrator does a great job at voicing the characters differently for us too. Thank you!

Onward to the next book I go. :)

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Audio Book Review: Battle Bond by Lindsay Buroker

Battle Bond by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Val is a magnet for trouble. And magical trouble. She's one of the best at handling it.

Val's working on seeing more in everyone than the surface. She's working on seeing magical beings as more, though she's never really had a chance to look any further than her current job. She's starting to see there are others here that are refugees from other worlds, and they aren't bad. To help her image, when she comes across those that aren't bad and are in trouble, she's helping them.

I never saw Val as one that would go after anyone in the magical community, just someone that's handed a job and deals with it. But the magical community sees what she does for a living and sees her another way... Ruin Bringer.

This book brings Val closer with her friends, Nin, Dimitri, and even Zultan. And even the one person...er dragon, she didn't expect. Zav.

There's another dragon in town and Zav needs her help to find him. In striking a deal to help Zav, and Zav to help her with threats on Nin, Val and Zav start to see things a little clearer with each other. Until Val does something that can threaten the even land they've come to. And maybe even something more that seems to have started to spark.

I'm loving how Val is always in the middle of things, and even though she wants to help, things seem to turn a little tilted and go wrong....even if the result is what is needed. Val's not perfect and I love it. She's got a tough exterior that people see, but there's more to her and I love we're starting to see some of that in her.

I'm thrilled the narrator is the same for this series. I feel like she's caught her stride in these books and doing great with the different voices and personalities, and even accents. I'm on to the next book!

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Audio Book Review: Sinister Magic by Lindsay Buroker

Sinister Magic by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I picked this book up on Kobo Plus to give it a try. It sounds like something that's right up my alley. And boy oh boy was I right. After listening to the first chapter, I knew Val was my kind of character.

The first chapter had action and that she's older, just over 40 years old, and has a few "human" struggles, even though half Elf... she is great. I love that we see some of her magical items and her personality shines.

Val is definitely a tough character and I love her for it. She does the things that need to be done to protect others, even if that means not seeing her family or fighting powerful beings. Val is the one running INTO the danger when she should be running away with the others.

Oh Val and her quick remarks. lol. She's perfect to stand up to a dragon that's sent to this world to collect criminals and return them to their world for punishment and rehabilitation.

I'm looking forward to seeing Zav more in the future books. He's so great at getting Val all irritated. lol. That's when she has her best quick clips back to him.

I enjoyed Vivienne Leheny as the narrator. She gave personality and dry humor to Val's words. She even voiced the other characters with different tones. Some sounded a little slow in speaking, but it was easy to tell which character was to be speaking.

I'll be listening to the next book and series, for sure!

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Book Review: Secrets at Nightfall by Amanda Bonilla

Secrets at Nightfall by Amanda Bonilla
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a quick read for me. I enjoyed reading it each night. It feels like this book brings Darian back to even ground after all she's been through. Her feelings are more pronounced now that she's lost some, a good many, of her memories.

The year with these holes in her memories have been hard as she's tried to work for money for a new place to live and being hunted by others. I love that she is aware of a hollow spot in her heart too. That is an awareness that she had something or someone.

We see battles and friendships with Darian. She sure has different kinds of friendships.... from Camden to Anya and with Raif and Xander. She has more of her own created family than she realized.

The end of this book ties up many loose ends. However we are left with a few other loose ends. I do think with how things are with Darian and Tyler that those loose ends won't be loose for long. lol. But it would be interesting to see how they live on with the new rules. Very carefully, I would think.

Such a fun series to read. Darian had me nervous for her and many things through the series. I'm think she's in a good place here.

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Audio Book Review: Brightblade by C.T. Phipps

Brightblade by Michael Suttkus
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fun and light story with an underlining theme.

I enjoy reading C.T. Phipps's books for the fun references made to movies, songs, games, and so much more. I'll admit, I catch many of them but I'm sure there's a few that I've missed in listening to the story. I love it.

The characters are fun. Even when they are having one of the worst days of their lives. lol. There's quick clips back and forth as they go through the day and battles.

This book and series is set in the same world as Jane Doe, Straight out of Fangdom, and Red Room. They are all mentioned here so you get the feel of where Ashley and friends are located. I thought it was neat that Alex is present in this book (and hopefully series), which he was a boyfriend of Jane Doe's for a time too. It's neat to see how the books cross paths or are a history for this book.

I found there was a theme to the characters... What you are raised around doesn't mean it's right. You can be more and move past prejudices and more.

Ashley's day starts with trying to collect a bond's breaker and escalates to a trio of magical woman robbing a bank and her finding her long lost brother and into so much more. Lot's happening while we get to know the characters.

Where the story ends is at a mystery! Someone arrives, and I want to know what happens after this. Another book! :D Can't wait!

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Audio Book Review: Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas

Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It has been one heck of a journey with Aelin and all the others. This book started at a very tough point in their lives. Got tougher. But we made it to the end. There maybe tears and laughs in getting here, but we're here.

War does a lot of things to people. From forming bonds of love to breaking those bonds and even the people. We see that through this book. So many emotions and realizations.

Things were looking badly without the fire heart in the beginning. Everyone was trying their best, and we could see the stress was high for them all. There are good and bad decisions, all done with the best of intentions for the kingdom.

This series is one whole journey that needs to be made from the beginning. And so worth the adventure.

I remember there was one character I wasn't fond of when I first met them. They turned out to be the one I was most moved for in the end. The most tears for. I loved the manifestation to who she became and getting there. Manon. Even Dorian became more than the sheltered prince.

Aelin and her swagger and quick clips are always great. But when she broke, it was hard. The ending was worth it all.

I'm left wanting to see how their lives go. I want to know about the families they have and how they stay in touch and what fun adventures they have. I want so much more with them all!

This series is worth the read or listen. Great to meet the characters and live through their wins and battles with life, each other, and fight for what they believe in.

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Book Review: Shadows at Midnight by Amanda Bonilla

Shadows at Midnight by Amanda Bonilla
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book kept me reading. Each night, I couldn't wait to read more and even wanted to stay up later to keep going.

We start the book with Darian imprisoned and tortured because of someone she killed, for Xander. This was a tough moment to get through. The torture that she endured. Wow. This would truly be terrible to come back from. But there's one special person in her life that can help with his magic and their bond.

When Xander trades himself for Darian's freedom and his part in the killing, Darian can't take it. She pulls a team together and goes to get him. Along the way, Darian starts to see more of Tyler's power and what he can do. He could be frightful if she didn't know him so well.

Darian doesn't get much down time after the terrible labyrinth of traps and illusions. Xander needs help returning to the real world after his torture. And the Synod is present...

Darian has been one who's not had any friends or anyone close enough to be like family in centuries. She's now grown close to those around her. She's always there to help them any way she can. Darian and Tyler's bond grows stronger and they are closer and closer. But there's pieces that Tyler's still not ready to share just yet, which Darian fears could mean danger for her or them.

I liked seeing Tyler in action more here. And we do finally get to learn pieces about Tyler and the jinn. I loved Tyler but I wasn't sure he was always thinking to protect Darian in the first books. He seemed bossy and territorial. But now, he's more on the protective and loving side. I feel their relationship has grown into more and they are great together. (And I'm glad Darian has made a decision on which man's for her.)

The ending of this book.... it'll leave you wanting the next! So so glad I have it here because I have to know how things will go next.

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Audio Book Review: Tower of Dawn by Sarah J. Maas

Tower of Dawn by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is of Chaol and Nesryn's journey to Antica to find Chaol healer(s) to help heal him to walk and to talk to them to bring home an army to help fight the Valg. What they find in Antica is so much more than they expected.

I've loved Chaol from the beginning. I thought he was getting a bit more brooding coming into this book. This book takes Chaol back to being himself again. Yrene is the healer that can help him. And she is great at standing up to him, although she has her own struggles to work past as well...Because Chaol is from the land whose soldiers killed her mother.

These two go head to head with their personal trauma. And in doing so, Yrene works through that barrier in Chaol. He is holding himself back with that darkness that's left feeding off of what he is holding in. Chaol slowly opens up to Yrene, as she does with him. They grow closer and closer.

Nesryn came with Chaol to her family's home land. She looks forward to seeing family here and feels even more comfortable here. She finds she has much in common with one of the Princes, Sartaq.

When Sartaq readies to fly out to his Rukhin troops, he asks Nesryn to go with him. She agrees. And their adventure begins. The dangers they face open their eyes to more than they wanted to admit. And they learn great details and information about Maeve and the Valg. So many details!

Oh wow. The things learned in this book. Just wait until they return to the others and share this information. WOW! It's going to make a HUGE difference!

I love where the people go in this story. Nesryn's adventures were ones I was looking forward to each time I listened to the story.

Have the Valg arrived at this continent too?

I love listening to this book. The narrator is amazing. I listened to it in tandem with Empire of Storms and they really compliment each other well. The things we learn...some major points picked up!

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Audio Book Review: Empire of Storms by Sarah J. Maas

Empire of Storms by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

There's one thing to be said about being late to a series. At least all the books are out.

I listened to this in tandem with Tower of Dawn. So it took me a LOT longer to get through this than normal.

This book is about Aelin, Rowan, Darian, Manon, Elide, and Lorcan's journey over time. All they had to do and endure to get to where they needed to be. To find the lock.

They all have separate journeys that come together as one.

I'll say. I'm amazed at the masterful planning of Aelin's mind. She's really learned some serious skills other than being an assassin from her former master. All her contacts in the past, through her short life and she's made the rounds, are seen here. We see how she's played her hand and who answers.

There's a little unexpected event that comes about at the end. But, Aelin saw when it happened and she quickly planned for it. Wow, she's quick on her feet.

This book was amazing. It's interesting to see how the different gods and goddesses influence their selected person through life to get to this point. Leading them to others that can help, and possibly fall in love with, to where they are needed.

They all bring a piece of the puzzle to Aelin with what they learn of the Valg, Morath, and other people and places that are involved.

I really do think this story and series is masterfully planned out and put into words.

The narrator is wonderful with her accents and personalities for the characters.

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Book Review: Against the Dawn by Amanda Bonilla

Against the Dawn by Amanda Bonilla
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book had me reaching for it each night (my reading time). I even stayed up later or went to bed sooner at times to read.

Darian has returned from her stay in O Anel. It was two weeks away for her, but six months for everyone at home. Darian's still healing and adjusting after what happened. She has many friends who help in their own ways. Darian wants to work, and gets a job from Tyler.

And, her past has resurfaced. Lorik has returned to town and has his sights set on high goals. Goals he wants Darian to help him achieve. And after getting her job from Tyler, Lorik's goals may lead her to her job focus.

Truthfully, I didn't trust Lorik from the beginning. He is not one to trust to have your back. He just wants what he wants. And there's something more here too.

Oh Darian. She's stuck in the love triangle that shouldn't be so hard. She loves, wants, and needs Tyler. Xander... he just doesn't know the word no. So, with his position as King in turmoil in his kingdom, he has Tyler arrested for hitting him in public in the previous book. Xander is determined that he can protect Darian. That he can give her what she needs. And yet, in the end....

Darian is struggling emotionally. She's got a lot that's happened and getting past all of it, well, that may not be 100% for a very, very long time. If ever. She has friends that help her. But there's others that think they know best for her. Ugh. If I was her, I may give up on trusting anyone ever again. But Darian is open to her friends and appreciates them. She even gives others opportunities that come back.

With the way this book ended, I'm definitely on to the next book. I need to know what happens!

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Book Review: Crave the Darkness by Amanda Bonilla

Crave the Darkness by Amanda Bonilla
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Oh Darian... She's so strong willed. It's great to see, but sometimes that can be broken too. And when that happens, it's not always in a good way.

Things are on the outs with Tyler. And things heat up with Xander. And Darian doesn't know how she feels. She is lost to the absence of Tyler for so long. And when she does see him with.... Oh that is something that's hard for her to see. Raif and Xander are determined to get her out of her home and back into action. What they don't realize is the broken heart can sometimes cloud judgement or decisions...

Darian's given the job to protect Anya and her unborn child. Anya wants her husband protected. And Anya knows more than she's sharing, which could be dangerous for all.

Darian's also given a job by messenger. This job is a complicated one but she's determined to take care of it.

Darian is taking a lot of things personally in the state of mind she's been in. She's failing at a lot of things and making mistakes. It's hard to pull out of that hole when there. So she's determined to solve it all on her own.

Such an emotional ride here with Darian. But I love that Darian still has her quick clips that come out. She's always great for fun remarks.

How this book ends... I had to dive into the next book.

I do want to share that there could be a trigger warning with this book. One character is a Succubus. And he can take advantage of the unwilling. I will give Amanda credit. She took on a tough and emotional subject here and it works. A terrible moment.

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Audio Book Review: Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas

Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I think this is my favorite book so far.

So much happens and it all comes together. Celaena, or now known as Aelin, has lived a full life as an assassin. She has seen and lived many things in her life. And it all shows now. She takes all the things she's seen and learned and information about people and puts it all into play here.

I really liked that there's mysterious actions earlier in the book, then we get the answer as to what she was doing or where at. And then why. To see all that Aelin plans out. WOW! That girl has a creative mind and I love it.

I love that she surprises people with her plans too. She has a young personality and a mind full of information. She really does deserve a happy life.

I'm surprised at the arrival and play of one character in the story. Didn't expect to see that character do what they do. And I'm curious to see how things go with that character in the future and the plan for the wyrd keys... with that person and with Aelin.

I loved what we learned about the main characters in play. Oh, and then there's all our friends. So much happens! And they all come into play.

Such a great story with lots of movement and action. And we get results.

I'm sorry if this sounds vague. I don't want to spoil anything for anyone. So if you've read this book and want to talk details, I'm here for you!

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Audio Book Review: Throne of the Ancients by Carrie Summers

Throne of the Ancients by Carrie Summers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Devon continues on with Stonehaven...knowing Demons are camped and barely held off by Owen's magic.

Devon is a gamer and her job is playing in the gaming world. The NPC's and the world have come alive for me as much as they have for Devon. They do seem like real friends at times. And Devon is determined to take care of them all.

Devon has to find a way to keep the players and NPC's safe when the pattern changes and the demons attack. What Devon doesn't know is there's another enemy on it's way as well.

Devon is forced to take the town people and players into Ishildar for protection. And she needs to figure out how to activate the protections of the ancient city. The game has seen it fit that Devon should marry... A potential prince arrives... Fabio. lol. So funny. How will Devon react to that?

A few other things come to light for Devon. Her friend Haley has a...situation and some struggles that she wants to talk to Devon about. We know what it is from the last book. Emerson is hot on Haley's trail knowing something isn't right. What will happen when people find out?

I love this series. There's no denying that there's a real world and a gamer world. Devon has her first dates in the real world and things are awkward. It makes me smile hearing how the dates go. lol.

Even though the gaming world is definitely a game, it's fun and the consequences feel real for them other than the players respawn at their star born point. Devon really does care for her town and she has to make tough decisions for it. There are others that are starting to get the feel that the NPC's are more in this game than they usually are in other games.

There's a big event at the end of this book and it leaves me curious as to how it'll be fixed. I'm looking forward to listening to more of this series.

The narrators are great. Annie does most of the voices as the main narrator. Jeff joins as the voice of the male characters. They do give all the characters their own voices. Always great listening to them.

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Book Review: Valkyrie's Call by Michelle Manus

Valkyrie's Call by Michelle Manus
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Michelle is great at viewing reactions and sharing how the other party sees those reactions. And how many times they are misunderstood. Our personal doubts can cloud our interpretation of actions or expressions. And that is something that happens in this book.

I love Random. I love Valkyrie.
These characters and the story are perfect for me.

Michelle moves the story forward with Valkyrie with Elijah being missing. Valkyrie needs to find him, and it's not why many think she wants to find him. She wants her few friends and family to be safe and if he's alive, they won't be. There's so much more to this story than anyone expected. Also looking for other kids who were taken by Danvers for experiments as well. I almost had this one figured out.

We do see both views in this book, of Valkyrie and Random.

Oh Valkyrie. She's been holding so so so much in and hiding more than we ever could have known. I figured some of it, but not all of it. Random. I love getting to learn more of Random's Aspect and his history as well. I love how everything mentioned or thought by the characters comes up and we see both sides of the moment.

I couldn't put this book down. I didn't want to put this book down.

The ending...*sigh* We get to see all the events to the end with the mission Valkyrie has herself on, and it's a much needed ending. I love how after all the emotional hurt that happened through this book needed time to heal, and it's given respectfully.

This does have steamy scenes that follows the story and the characters. I don't think they are the reason for the book which is nice. They are there but the story has it's own plot that is important.

Goodness do I love Michelle's writing style and plots and more.

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Audio Book Review: North Queen by Nicola Tyche

North Queen by Nicola Tyche
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I listened to this book on Kobo. Right at the beginning I picked up the words were poetic in describing her waking and forest and the moment. The narrator, Katherine's, voice is perfect with the peace of the moment. Beautiful flow of speaking with the words.

The book did a good job of showing not all characters are down right evil or good. That people have both sides to them as all these characters where one way with certain people and another with others. And sometimes to extremes, which made me think which is the proper version at times.

Grandmother. I liked her. She's respected but not cruel. She knows the hearts involved yet the duty needed. A tough line to walk.

Mikael...he's so eager to change things for her. She thinks she can change things. But, I got to thinking not all things need to change.

I'm not 100% sold on the romance happening with Norah and Mikael. I know. It's political arrangement. But something more starts to happen. And Mikael is willing to give up so much along with doing things differently. (Some of the killing, I can agree with.) Then. I remind myself of what the seers have foretold. And realize. Mikael's a man who doesn't want to die. So what do the seers see now?

Then there's Norah. She returns with memory loss. She never gets to be a Queen as she seemed to want, in decision making and input. (I know, she didn't want to be queen.) And she's not fully in action as Salara either. But she is when she walks in on things happening. She makes a decision that Mikael agrees to, each time. I'm hoping she'll be more in the coming books. She has potential.

This book mentions the well being of Mercia. However, I didn't feel like we got any information on how things are going there or what was sent or care that the anyone was taking steps to help with. The union of the two kingdoms felt like it wasn't anything more than a marriage. I felt like there was some in depth things that could have made Norah more of a Queen that was missed here. She's just a figure head to me in this book. No one seems to want to give her any duties or share anything happening. She's just a pretty face.

I felt that Norah is always reacting to things here. When the story ends, I feel like she's ready to take action. I'm hoping she does and I'm curious to listen to the next book.

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Audio Book Review: Ring of Ruin by Keri Arthur

Ring of Ruin by Keri Arthur
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oooooh. Masterpiece. I love how this book finishes the original arc of the Claws and connects what's to come to other pieces of this storyline. Nicely done. It feels seamless.

This book is looking for the third relic of the Claws and protecting the one that Bethany has. I love how it all ties together. Who the person is behind it all. How they know where Bethany, Lugh, Cynwrig, and others are. There's a reason for what they do. And what they plan to do... Oh I love this little twist! Brilliant.

If I was Bethany, just the thought of seeing one of those horrid creatures again would stop me. I know, there's a world at stake and the bad group wouldn't stop and will make her see them.... I guess she's getting great experience fighting them and dealing with them.

We get to see Bethany has a little more to her love life too. I'm curious to see her balance that along with finding the answers to other questions as well. I can't wait to continue listening to this series!

Keri is always amazing at creating the woman and supporting characters. Love the strength and respect for them.

The narrator is a wonderful voice for these stories too. Clear audio and speaking is wonderful.


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Book Review: Ambush by Krista D. Ball

Ambush by Krista D. Ball
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a full ending to the series bringing the characters through the battles they must fight, mentally and physically.

I loved this book. We see how Bethany has grown over time with the help of her friends and loves. She's still Bethany and if there's a fight, you'll find her at the center of it even if by accident. I love Bethany for being herself. I love the friends who surround her because they love her for who she is, through and through.

There's battles to still be fought. Bethany and Arrago and the crew are there to see those through. They also need to learn about their abilities that are surfacing. Can they keep it all quiet from people? What are the people going to think if they find out.... fear, aw, worship... They don't want any of it.

Things escalate to an all time high with the battle coming in the North along with Jud coming with the Elf knights. All putting pressure on Bethany, Arrago, Kiner, Javon, and even Erem. The pressure also ignites their abilities in ways they don't want. And someone's life, or many lives, will end due to it all.

This book was a great conclusion to the adventures of Bethany. I really enjoyed how it ended. Sad to see it end, but worth reading. If you love Bethany for her snark and fighting, you'll love this too.

Thank you for taking me on this journey.

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Audio Book Review: The Mystery of Emerald Flame by Pip Ballantine

The Mystery of Emerald Flame by Pip Ballantine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Adventure with Steampunk, perfect!

Our Ministry Seven divide to deal with two different things. Verity and a few of the younger members head out on airship with her new friend from the academy to find out about the Emerald Flame. Henry and the rest of the Seven stay home, and look into the Illuminati and if they know their address.

Things are getting complicated. And the things both see... wow.
Henry looks to go undercover in the Illuminati to get the information they need. What he sees is... frightening. To see someone have that power. To do that with automatons and people... It can be allowed to keep happening.

Verity goes on a trip and the things she learns about the Sound that she can do and the Emerald Flame are amazing. Seeing Verity in action using the Sound to affect automatons is amazing. To see the ancient dig site and imagine the underground city. It sounds amazing.

I love that the steampunk stories by Pip and Tee are always full of the equipment. The world is truly what it says it is. This along with the adventurous story is what keeps me coming back to them.

Pip is the narrator of the story as well. I love her voice and accent. She does well with the voices of the kids of London along with the adults.

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Audio Book Review: The Curse of the Silver Pharaoh by Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris

The Curse of the Silver Pharaoh by Pip Ballantine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love my steampunk worlds emersed in all things steampunk. The houses, things used, transportation, and the story. All steampunk related.

Pip and Tee give me that in their steampunk stories. I love it.

This series is a spinoff from their first steampunk series, Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences. I love that our main characters have a job to do, find the missing Museum expert Dr. Williams. And there's always action that goes with it.

Verity is part of the Ministry Seven. Seven, well actually eight, orphans that live on the streets. They are their own family and work with Agent Harrison Thorne on small things. Verity is looking for Uncle Octavius, and finds herself trying to help a museum expert that gets kidnapped. Agent Thorne arrives and learns what Verity overheard. Agent Thorne has a mission for the Ministry Seven... To go to the academy for talented young engineers. Three go to the academy and the remainder are near at a farm, waiting for when they are called in.

Each group has their daily tasks as they look around. And some find trouble, which works out to finding out great details they can use.

Verity, Henry, and Emma are at the academy and we follow along through Verity's eyes as she finds friends, deals with those who pick on others, and the teachers. Interesting place. I got a little bit of a Harry Potter feel while at school. But, instead of magic, it was with automatons. Kinda cool.

The Curse of the Silver Pharaoh is really a thing here. And we do get to see the Pharaoh! You'll get there. You'll get there. ;)

And like in The Ministry of peculiar Occurrences, we do have a few explosions. ;)

I had fun with this one. Great way to dive into a world full of steampunk and a case to be solved, even if there's a little danger along the way.

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Audio Book Review: Sword of Darkness by Keri Arthur

Sword of Darkness by Keri Arthur
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book has a little bit of everything I enjoy. There's great comradery between the characters and quick comebacks and fun between them. There's action and fighting while our characters grow and learn.

We spend time with Bethany and Lugh at the beginning of the book. Siblings. I love seeing them together and on the hunt for the relics. Even as Bethany learns what she can do, and what she's inherited from her father and learning about the Eye. Of course the gods all talk in riddles and they have to figure out what they need to do. It does come around and the hunt continues. Though, will they find the Sword of Darkness before those who have bad intentions? The race is close!

Inheritance, whether station or an item, can be trouble in a family. There's always those family members who always wants something, or has been told they deserve it.

It's interesting to see how family comes into play here, good and bad. With family also comes seeing more in depth the way of pixies and elves. We see Bethany do more as well as Cynwrig.

Bethany then spends the second half of the book with Cynwrig. This is fun with their quick heated remarks back and forth. I love the boldness and normalizing of the smexy conversations.

This book didn't feel as smexy as the first, but the fun hints are there. This book felt more focused on the action of relic hunting.

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Audio Book Review: Lady of Devices by Shelley Adina

Lady of Devices by Shelley Adina
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Claire is a nice girl. I like that she wants to be more than a wife. She wants to go to University when she graduates school but her mother is far from allowing that happen. They are of a high standing and she will marry well.

Until things fall out of the investments her father had and he has an accident with his pistol. Life takes a quick downward slide for Claire. However, Claire is a self sufficient woman that doesn't want to just marry. She wants more from life and to do more.

When Claire is left to see to the closing of their home that will be sold, she finds herself in trouble. And she finds her way to get out of it. All while befriending unfavorable children that become her charges and friends.

This is where things start to get interesting for me. When Claire starts to stand on her own two feet and makes things happen, even if by accident.

There's a lot of potential for this series and these characters. I feel like it can grow nicely. The beginning was of a Young Adult feel as the young woman starts to create her own sea legs in what she wants to do.

It's a short read or listen and one that fit into the week nicely for me. I'll check out the next few books to see how things go for Claire and her charges along with her new job.

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Audio Book Review: Crown of Shadows by Keri Arthur

Crown of Shadows by Keri Arthur
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love Keri's books.

She writes some amazing woman characters. They are mentally strong and can stand on their own to fight battles. They also can have friends with them and rely on them for help. These woman are not scared, well, they are but they face the big bads and fight on. They don't run when things get tough. They may run INTO things a little too fast, but they are determined. And the male cast supports these woman. They don't belittle them at all for being determined and have a mind of their own. This is what I love.

Bethany is a strong person. She may jump in headlong, but she's standing up for herself. And I love this.

We start off right into the thick of things with Bethany and her brother, Lugh. And meeting a few savory characters in Bethany's life. Mmm. Love these relationships. I love that there's a good friendship between Bethany and her brother, and they know each other so well. But the relationships with others. Oh these are fun. These are also what makes the book on the smexy side of things. So if you don't like serious smexy, there are scenes that are serious. (I had to turn the audio book down while listening at work. lol) Again, Bethany is a big girl and knows what she wants. And she goes for it.

I love that we are searching for relics. Bethany's not really one for hunting for things or ancient relics of magic or anything. She runs a tavern that was her mothers. And she is happy with that. But things get going and she learns she has a power that took almost a century to come to life, and with the help of the Eye. Now, Bethany is pulled into the search for the hoard that went missing along with maybe finding her mother that went missing about 6 months ago when the hoard went missing too.

I really liked these characters. The audio was nice and clear. I thought Bethany sounded a little snubby with the voice of the narrator at times, along with a few others. But the others are born of high station, so they do think they are above others. Bethany doesn't hold back what she's thinking. She says it like it is, and I love her for it.

This book does have a conclusion for it's story. There is a larger arc in the story line, and I'm wanting book 2 now. Thankfully it's already out in audio, so I can go listen to it. :)

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Audio Book Review: Dungeon Lord by Hugo Huesca

Dungeon Lord by Hugo Huesca
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I totally agree with Edward's playing ethics.

Edward had me on his side from the beginning when he was gaming with his friends and another who's a little self centered in the game. (There's always that one.) This person, Ryan, invited himself to their group and...is Edwards boss at work. Not a good combo when Edward makes the decision to help others and save the team to win the battle.

Things get a little heated at work and Edward gets mad enough to do something he wouldn't normally do. This leads Edward down a path where he's intercepted by another and escorted to the game world, that's another world.

Edward has a LOT of up leveling to do. lol. He's seen as dangerous by the residents of the world, but he isn't like the other Dungeon Lords. He thinks things are a little off after what he went through with his bargain, and he's determined to not do what the god wants.

Things happen quickly in the beginning with getting Edward into the game. I liked this. The time in the world with Edward is interesting. We are learning with Edward about things and his abilities, as he acquires them. There are twists of words used and a fine line to walk in deals. This is fun to see.

Jeff Hays is one of my favorite narrators. I enjoy hearing the many voices he creates. And I'm super glad he paired up with Annie Ellicott for her to voice the woman voices. Fun! They make it so easy and fun to listen to the audiobook. I can differentiate the different characters easily.

And we have more to come! I'm looking forward to following Edward and his minions in the series. There's a fine line for a Dungeon Lord to walk, and Edward's going to figure that out, while helping the people of the land.

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Book Review: Liberate by Krista D. Ball

Liberate by Krista D. Ball
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Let's go save the rest of our favorite team!

Erem has been missing for a year now. Suspected that Jud has him locked away and doing who knows what to him in this time.

Jovan's found Erem. Bethany has received note that he knows where he is and she's determined to leave NOW to get bring him home. Arrago tries to talk Bethany into a plan, even with all the threats and attacks on Bethany, she needs to go in with a plan.

They come up with a few. First, to help with attacks against Bethany. And she agrees. (I love this one as I've been waiting for it for several books!) Second, how to get into Elven area, which have orders to take her if she ever returns, and find Erem and Jovan and get them home.

Bethany does great. She really does try to keep hidden and not start a fight. That's a HUGE feat for Bethany. But, we get what we want. Bethany loses it when she sees the state of Erem and Jovan. They are her people. And what Jud has done to them, especially Erem in the last year... It's too much. And Jud will have to pay.

All while Bethany and Arrago are working to retrieve their friends, those at the castle in Taftlin have their hands full with a battle to save their lives, and that of young Prince Henry. There are nobles in Taftlin that are not happy with Arrago, or his elven wife.

In the end, it's a question of if they will all get out now and what's to come to Taftlin.

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Audio Book Review: Marked by Kim Richardson

Marked by Kim Richardson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I've seen completely opposite and mixed reviews of this book. When I read a terrible review, I had to check it out. lol.

So which reviews do I think are right....
I'd say it falls somewhere in between.

The main character is 16 years old. Maybe if she was a little older it would be easier to accept the potential budding relationship, the forbidden relationship, in Horizon. But, if she was a little older the story wouldn't get away with not asking questions. She's got innocents going for her in that token.

Kara dies early in the book as the book takes place with her becoming a Guardian Angle in Horizon. She's learning how to save people and if can't save them, then their soul. Her and her petty officer are finding demons are arriving way sooner than expected as they work to save people. There becomes a whole thing on the demons fighting them for souls....but how are they finding them so fast?

Then, there comes a big case. One of a special child, and Rookie Kara is picked as one of the six to work to save the child. This is where where I struggled. Why is Kara special? Why was she the ONLY rookie chosen for this dangerous mission? There's no reasons given before or during the events. The only thing said is the Chief picks the people for the case. The Chief is left to be implied that he's...God. So if so, that's why no one questions that Kara was picked for this. So, my guess, he knows something we don't know. Yet.

They are picked for their strengths. Kara doesn't even ask what her strength is so she can play to it. She just goes right along with it...

I do like the ending. It answers some questions we have through the book.

I may give book 2 a try to see if the series picks up better for me. It wasn't a book that I couldn't wait to get back to. It was okay, but not wowing for me. However it does have some really nice elements to it.

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Audio Book Review: Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas

Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

We follow Celaena as she travels to a new continent that has fae and magic. She has a job to do, but will she do it? She's found by Rowan, one of Maeve's warriors that's bound to her, and taken to see Maeve. Celaena's aunt wants to see what Celaena can do. She must train and show her powers to Queen Maeve to get into the Fae city and learn what she can of the Word Keys to save her home land.

Celaena has a knack for finding tough people who don't like her and she feels the same for them, and becoming the best of friends over time. Celaena does that with Rowan, like she did with Chaol. Rowan works with her to come into her fae form and powers. Lots of training. All while facing her past.

There's something on these lands killing demi-fae, the half fae. Rowan is investigating and has Celaena help him.

Celaena is one that comes up with amazing ideas. She's far smarter than her years. Being an assassin has helped her with this. Yet, she still has a young, naive reaction to things and does like to joke and dance.

I really enjoyed Celaena's adventures here. Though, I'm probably in the minority with the rest of the book.... I know all the characters are out on their own doing important things that will explain and lead to a lot. We even see new characters. But... I was bored with their sections of the book. Until the end. Which left me wanting to see what they all do next.

It's good to see the characters moving forward and stepping into adulthood. They are all young adults, 18-20 years old. The events happening are pushing them to make adult decisions and crossing lines to follow their beliefs. I do like that. I remember being that age and the tough decisions in love and life that happen.

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Audio Book Review: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas

Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sarah is great at creating characters we are invested in. We grow attached to them. I feel like she enjoys pulling my heart strings.

Celaena is the King's champion. She now is sent on missions to eliminate people on his list. Celaena has been doing things a little...differently with her missions. And she builds her relationships with Dorian, Chaol, and Nehemia.

Things aren't exactly what they seem. Celaena has been doing her own thing as are others.

I have mixed feelings with this book. There's something in the works. There's more happening behind the scenes than we are aware of. I'm not sure who's pulling the strings yet, but someone is. And there's powerful keys in the world that the King can't get...but he has at least one already.

So my mixed feelings come to Celaena and her feeling with one person who doesn't tell her something, that she could have prevented a terrible event. Something that hits me with this is because she was hiding information too. She didn't tell everything. She was playing her own agenda and keeping things secret. But she holds all that against another and looses that deep bond. They are still friends.

Celaena's hidden past is starting to surface. Oh the things that could come with this information...

I'm curious where life is taking Celaena next. Even if my heart is partly broken.

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Book Review: A Song to Wake a Thousand Sorrows: The Song Duology by Michelle Manus

A Song to Wake a Thousand Sorrows: The Song Duology: Book One by Michelle Manus
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Michelle is masterful with her word choices. To have song weaving as magic and describe in words how people react without us hearing the music is wonderful.

The time pacing in this fantasy book is wonderful. It doesn't feel like fast time wise in the actions, but there's time passing. We are fully in the moments that are important. We grow bonds between the characters in the ways they are to be, friendships, potential more than friends, irritation, dislike, and more.

Clare is a special person. She carries the song with her. Though, the Song is more than she ever knew it was. She's afraid to let the Song out of the prison she's built inside her as it will want more than she wants to give.

Clare has ambitions. She has goals for what she wants to do. And those goals grow as she meets those in the city with the palace and the Jackal king. Clare has crafty ways to reach her goals. The way she plays music when put on the spot, the way she plans on breaking the guild, and even more. She's a brilliant woman.

There's a friendship that grows into a bond that Clare has never had before. To watch this friendship form and grow... it's beautiful. They accept each other for who they are and help each other through the days in the palace full of self centered men and ladies.

Then things change. And Clare and the Song make their choice on no longer hiding.

The things that Clare does and can do. Wow. I couldn't read this book fast enough to take it all in at the same time. I loved the actions. I love what we see of the world. I love the potential and the threat to this world. Clare is a damaged character that takes it all in, and has to do things that are...wowing.

I can't wait for the next book to come out to see where we go next and what Clare will do.

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Audio Book Review: Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After being left heartbroken from the novellas leading up to the series, and Celeana's past, I finally jumped into to the first full length book. This book was great. I loved the potential threads here.

Celeana is broken, which we knew from before she was sent to the salt mines. (The previous novellas.) She had a different upbringing. This book takes her from the salt mines that were to be her death and puts her in the hope of winning her way to the King's Champion for her freedom in four years. There is a line Celeana has to walk and cross as the King is one she's not a fan of.

She will compete against other men who want this position as well. But while the competition is happening, there's another danger that is attacking the competitors. A very old danger that lingers in the shadows. And Celeana is drawn into it. She must survive not only the challenges to become the Champion but also the ancient beast set to destroy the potential champions.

As she goes through, Celeana makes new friends. I love the bonds she creates with her wit and charm. Her guard and who she trains with, Chaol, is a huge part of the story as he's always at her side...to make sure she doesn't kill the prince. The prince has other plans and enjoys spending time with Celeana. And we have a princess visiting who befriends Celeana. I love Nehemia. She is a strong woman with her country, training, and opinions. There is much, much more to her and we start to see that.

I have really enjoyed all the potential threads set in motion here in this book as we fight the evil here and see Celeana strengthen again in the challenges. I'm looking forward to listening to the rest of them


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