Audio Book Review: Charmed and Dangerous by Lindsay Buroker

Charmed and Dangerous by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This series has been a fun, easy listen for me.

I did listen to books 2 through 5 one after the other. The storyline has kept moving forward with each book picking up shortly after the previous one.

This whole series as been about Morgen finding herself. She inherits her grandmother's home and learns so much about herself in the process of figuring out who her grandmother was too. She really needed to experience life differently after losing her job and her husband divorcing her. And, this is a lot different from "normal" life styles.

This book is about Morgen finding a way to earn money with her new found gifts of being a witch. However there's still an "enemy" out there after Morgen. Along with Morgen's building for her business being haunted or cursed, or both?

We get to see a conclusion with the pack rivalry in this book. And a few people in town who aren't fans of Morgen's...we'll see something come of them too. But what about Olivia? That woman is a problem. Is that really solved here? Mmm.

But the way life goes for Morgen, I'm happy with where she ends up. She seems happy here at her grandmother's old home, now her home. This is her place to be. She has quirky friends and so much more.

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Audio Book Review: Moment of Tooth by Lindsay Buroker

Moment of Tooth by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This series is just a quick, fun listen for me. This book has an enemy from the past of Amar's that shows up. As Morgen and Amar figure out their relationship, Morgen's determined to help Amar with this terrible foe.

This book is Morgen and Amar trying to find time together. There's a lot happening at the house, remodeling being done the wolves arrive with news of searching for Amar's enemy and the witches now looking to hold meetings at her home. So finding private time is a bit difficult.

All the stumble blocks do give Morgen to meet others and make more friends, or to be friends, with some of the witches. And her hot tub is an attraction for the pack and even witches.

Morgen's sister comes to stay for a time! Sian is a little more quirky then Morgen. She has her set ways and it's hard to divert from them. But Sian finds a friend in the local vet.

Morgen learns more about her grandmothers land, now her land. There's a secret that she feels will help with the enemy that's hunting Amar and the pack. (I have a feeling there's lots of secrets with this land that Morgen hasn't found yet.)

Nice story of coming together and moving forward. But we also have a new struggle for Morgen. The property taxes. That's touched on here and will be something she'll have to figure out how to pay, in the near future.

I listened to the audiobook on this one as well. The narrator is clear and clean, but I still had to speed it up so the characters didn't feel like they were dragging in talking. Also, Amar sounded better with the speed and he's speaking a lot more.

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Novella Review: Hoot and Howler by Lindsay Buroker

Hoot and Howler by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a fun novella to read. It goes perfect in the A Witch in Wolf Woods series. It's a short of Amar trying to get Zorro to quit molting and leaving leftovers in his barn and on his work. Amar had made Zorro a perfect nesting box, but Zorro won't use it.

They need a little bit of bonding time. All from Amar's POV.

I love their bonding moment. It explains what happens to... that animal.

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Any Witch Way by Lindsay Buroker

Any Witch Way by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The witches in this town have some serious problems. There are a few hard topics approached in this story. Things that the witches are doing. I wouldn't have thought they'd go there, but there's always those that are trouble.

Okay, maybe only a few. But the others have lent their ear to those that they shouldn't. And the things they are doing. Dang. I can totally see why the werewolves don't like the witches.

Everything that's come to light in this book about the few witches that are not following the way of witches, I'm totally on Morgen's side with the talismans she's making. Though, I was on her side before all that we learned here. No one should be able to control anyone.

A few that are bad can always make things worse for the whole. That's so true of many things. I'm hoping that's being weeded out here.

I love the pack that Amar was from. They are a hoot and the work they do! lol. They really go out of their way.

This was nice to see Morgen start to make friends. We have Wendy, Phoebe, and her sister's invited to stay for a time with her. That's interesting to see them interact. And, her sister has some spunk. Amar and Morgen are starting to figure out what they want in their relationship too. Which that brings some bumps along the way, with her being a witch and he a werewolf and how the groups don't get along.

Morgen does the spell to find a familiar. Love her familiar(s). Her personality attracts the perfect ones. lol

I listened to this book. I was struggling after the last book with how Amar is voiced. He sounds like he's lacking in smarts. And he's not. This book has him sounding a little better however I did speed up the time and he sounds better that way. I'm working to get over this. Otherwise the narration is clear, I just need it at a faster speed for the people to sound normal. (I don't usually speed up to hear and catch things. This narrator needs it.)

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Audio Book Review: Spell Hound by Lindsay Buroker

Spell Hound by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I needed a book that was light and fun today. This book fit that need perfectly.

I enjoy Lindsay's books as the main female characters are older than 20, independent, and snarky. Morgen, in this book, fits this all and has a great dry sense of humor. She's a little geeky too. Perfect for me. Her interactions with Amar have grown. Amar is picking up on her humor and his dry humor is coming out in this book. Their clips back and forth are fun. I've smiled at them as I was listening to the book.

I really liked that in this book Amar, the werewolf, is starting to see that Morgen, a witch, is not like other witches. She's not going to spell the werewolves like the witches do, and has no desire to control anyone. It's nice when others start to see who you are as a person other than classifying you.

Morgen is definitely making enemies of the witches though. They started seeing her as they wanted to see her. And now, there is something she's done that helps a friend but will alienate her from the witch coven. However, there maybe two friends that come out of the mess in the end. We'll have to see if that stays as such in the next book.

Morgen still has a few needs. A way to make money to pay for things along with learning more about witch things. But, it seems like Morgen has a pack of friends growing. And maybe more with one other.

I listened to this book and enjoyed the narrator. Her audio is clean and clear. I'll be listening to the next book as well. And the series.

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Audio Book Review: The Songbird & the Heart of Stone by Carissa Broadbent

The Songbird & the Heart of Stone by Carissa Broadbent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you like vampires and magic with romance weaved in, this series is one that you should read. I give Carissa Broadbent a huge congrats at knowing how to write these stories with intriguing actions to keep me interested and building a slow burn romance in the background as the characters take on the world.

This series's main books has a theme of places with layers. The first book had the house for the tournament. The second was breaking through layers. This book is the layers of the dead, through Hell.

Mische knew the day she killed her creator they'd come for her. She was able to run for a while, but they found her. What she didn't expect was to be claimed by the bastard son as needed by him to go on his mission for the vampire god, Nyaxia.

Asar needs Mische for her connection to the sun god, but given a chance to live she's not going to tell him that Atroxus doesn't answer her prayers anymore. She's lost his favor. But, there maybe something she can do to gain it back.

This journey is dangerous. The different levels have different obstacles that can kill them. They stumble and fall, even lose their way. But the more that Mische and Asar are together and Mische asks questions and talks, it seems they can help each other in other ways too. A connection starts to form.

We learn more about Mische's past. And Mische faces her past. She has to face what she's done and did when she turned. Mische has her past that's not as nice as she is. She chooses to remain as she is on the outside, kind and friendly. Asar has his scars to bare as well.

I was really drawn into the story to see what the characters would decide in that moment they were here for.

As we come through that height of a moment, we are left with wanting the next book to see how things will continue on after this ending.

We do finish through the goal of this book, why they are working through the levels. But with the events there, we will want to keep reading for the next book. Which I'll be picking up soon.

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Audio Book Review: Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry

Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book felt very heavy in character and character relationship building, with weaved in fantasy elements.

I found the first half or more of the book to be very slow building for me. We're learning the world with Odessa as she tries to get to know her new husband and people.

There were a few things I figured early on, about the Guardian and things. Though, the problem with the Guardian and what we see happening with the animals, this is what I wanted to learn more about. As does Odessa when she finally learns of it too.

If you like books that are character driven and building relationships and love, this is a story for you.

Now the ending. Wow. I really liked the things we find out. And I'm left curious as to what it means...All we've learned of the world and what's happening to the animals... Then who's that person? Why are the Crux here early?

I have my suspicions and look forward to seeing how it's connected.

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Book Review: Cookbooks and Demons by Megan Mackie

Cookbooks and Demons by Megan Mackie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I might have been close to summoning a demon when I cook a time or two. lol. I got a kick out of how Helena summoned the demon in this book. A chef demon.

She's not the most graceful in the kitchen, and it was a bit of an accident while using her grandmother's cookbook.

Now, demons are known of by the people. One can get into great trouble by summoning a demon. So, Helena needs to keep this secret. After the big dinner with her friends and boss she gets to sit down with the demon and learn a few details of payment.

Helena learns that Rafferty, a wonderful chef, is not able to taste his cooking. Or any food. It all tastes like ash. Except, they learn that he can take her memory of food and taste it if they eat at the same time, touching. Feeling for the demon, Helena offers to let him take a vacation here with her as she goes to taste foods for a fundraising dinner her boss now has Helena in charge of.

A demon is near, and things are getting strange for her friends. It's interesting to see how this is all connected.

Helena doesn't realize what she's doing but she's grown fond of Rafferty and wants him around, even after he returns to his home.

Helena's warned by Rafferty about summoning him, but things are getting complicated and she misses talking with him. Or is there another reason?

The ending had me curious. That was neat how things ended, and are to lead us into book two! :)

This was a fun, light read for me with Helena as a sweet person and worries about others.

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Audio Book Review: A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas

A ​Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved Nesta from the first time we met her in the first book. I knew there was more to her than what we saw. And boy is there. She's totally one of the most damaged characters I've come across.

Nesta does her best, and when that's not enough and the memories get to you, then drown it in alcohol, music, and men. Until your family steps in. That's what Nesta's been doing, and now going to deal with.

Feyre comes to Nesta, leaving Nesta to grieve on her own isn't helping so she's stepping in to push her to recover. Nesta is beyond accepting of this "deal" of getting cleaned up.

Nesta is taken to the House of Wind to live, work in the library, and is to train with Cassian. She's not easy to persuade to do as she's to do. She makes friends with the house and finds a few people she can call friend in the library. When Cassian tries things out of the box, she even starts training.

This is a great book at seeing Nesta come around with new people, friends she makes. Nesta finds her people here. People she can be herself with, even if she thinks they won't accept the things she's done in her life. These ladies grow close and start to train with Nesta. They are loving how they don't feel powerless with knowing how to fight and stand up for themselves. Even when they are taken for the Illyrian Bloodright.

Speaking of power. Nesta's power. There's more to it than meets the eye. And it comes into play in the end, helping her loved ones. (I don't want to give anything away as it's a big play for a few people.)

We get the story through Nesta's eyes and Cassian's. Cassian has missions he's on as well as training Nesta. Things are still unsettled around the lands. He's to help find information from Eris as Az is busy with watching the Queens. And the Queen that is harmed by what Nesta did in the cauldron could want her.

Nesta comes into her own in this book. I love that she's determined to be independent. But there's also something growing between her and Cassian. Oh wow, is there. This book has a lot of spice to it. It's a side dish to the plot and events of the book, but there's a lot of side dishes. lol.

I really enjoyed watching Nesta grow as a character through this book and make the connections with friends and family that she makes here. She has a hard journey, but it's worth it.

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Book Review: Hymn by Ken Scholes

Hymn by Ken Scholes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

We've returned to the final book in the series. I'm anxious to find out where everyone ends up in the world and what happens.

The beginning has everyone in new places. Each are having reflective moments as they are separated and all could go any way for either side. They all have come so far! There are mention that had me guessing as to what would happen.

This book surprised me with the new people we see. I didn't see that coming. Though, now that I look back, there are hints there maybe more with the temple. I'm amazed at the pathway to the moon. Then there's a new character that I didn't see coming either. I was wondering who was talking to Winters, this fits.

This book is the one that Isaak has to face his fear. Yep, the mechanical has fears. And his biggest is the one that he has to face. Neb sees himself as a failure, even though he found their home, he hasn't been able to do what he thought was needed of him. Neb needs to see that things are fallible. They are human in their actions.

The thing that catches my attention is that people will do what they must to keep their loved ones safe.

The ending... Wow. As fantasy reads do, things are not always the happiest of endings for all. And I appreciate that more than anything. The ending for each of our main characters is true to their character and heart.

Finishing the last pages of the book was wonderful. I'm thrilled I was able to finish out this series. Ken Scholes has left us places that he could revisit briefly, if he would like. But the series feels complete with where it is.

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Re-Read, Book Review: Requiem by Ken Scholes

Requiem by Ken Scholes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

****SECOND READ through:
This series is just as amazing as it was the firs time I read it. The world is in flux with the changes happening. Who has the upper hand this time? Y'Zirites or those fighting against them?

Things are playing out with each event and character. People are separated and doing what they need to do to keep things moving forward.

As I wrote before, I love this world, characters, and events. A great read for fantasy lovers.
~~~~~~~
All the lives of people we've meet are greatly intertwined, no matter the distance between them.

Again, Ken never ceases to amaze me. The world, the story, the character depth. Plain master piece.


****FULL REVIEW****
The world is in upheaval and seems on the axis of great change. The feel all is falling further away from what everyone knows it to be.

Jin Li Tam is on an island with her son, the one the Y'Zirite's call the Child of Promise. Being worshiped as she tries to come to grips with what she now knows her destiny is. Vlad Li Tam travels the vast sea, following a ghost, to do what needs to be done with the Crimson Empress and the Child of Promise. Neb finds himself on the Moon with Petronus, and no idea what he's to do now that he's lacking the tools he needs to do what he is called to do. Lost as he tries to find his way in a new world, his world. Winters is still searching the final piece of the Final Dream. Hoping to help her people find their way home to their world. Rudolfo is struggling with the unexpected leave of his wife with his one and only son. The absence of his son weighs heavy on him, not knowing what his wife was thinking going into the center of danger as she did. Rudolfo comes to learn his own pieces in the Y'Zirite plans and makes plans of his own.

We get a feel that the people struggling to stop the downward slide are losing. Things are not going well and they are at opposite ends of the world trying to correct it on their own. None know what the other is doing. Secrets are crossing. And the results are...amazing, heartbreaking, reviving, hopeful. Everything all in one.

The beginning brings us quickly back to where we are after Antiphon. The Prelude is a refresher of what's going on in this world, yet at the same time drawing curiosity, making me want more. It's felt like ages for me since I finished Antiphon, and Ken draws me in quickly with refreshers of what happened and where we are now. Perfect. Flawless.

The connections to the world (and moon) all become clearer. The further we follow Ken through his Whymr maze the closer we come to the truths of what is happening and why. It seems now, as things come out, that it was tried very hard to replicate the culture lost on the moon. But things were never quite right. Things are still incomplete but starting to come in the open on how to fix them. All that the Wizards and Younger Gods fought over, and the results becoming clearer with each page.

We have all our familiar characters Point Of Views. And love seeing the troubles they get themselves into. We also have a new POV, Marta. Marta gives us a view of innocence and a connection to one we want to see more of and his connections to everything. I found all the POV's intriguing. I loved what I learned from all the views. The history and workings of the Y'Zirite are heavy and well designed that you need all these POV's to get the feel for what is happening and why. It's so easy to follow these POV's. Ken writes them with a grace that makes you feel he's been doing this for lifetimes. I really enjoyed getting to see more POV from Vlad Li Tam as well. Wow, the Li Tam family has got serious connections through out the world and can influence just about anything it seems, but this still has them in a bind as well.

Oh my gods! This series is amazing. Out-of-the-box crazy-amazing read. Love it! A book to be savored by each word. This read is not a light one. When you pick it up be ready to be submersed and mentally mapping all that's happening. This is a read to read over with an eyeglass and ponder over with a pipe Yes, all that and more!

Absolute read for fantasy fans.

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Audio Book Review: Magic and Misrule by K.M. Merritt

Magic and Misrule by K.M. Merritt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Just starting out to earn her shield, Vola is looking for a mission with her teacher Henri. As half orc, people are stuck on their prejudices of her being a monster. Coming into a small town she's guided to a place by her goddess for a mission, to find out what's going on with some of the people in town.

This story is a story of learning about yourself and learning how to work with others along with failure doesn't have to stop you.

Vola finds herself a mismatched group of people to become a team as they work on solving what's happened to people in the town. Those in the group have their own flaws, but they seem to be working well together to cover for each other. Vola has to realize that she's not just there to lead by doing, but to do together to get further and succeed.

I love seeing how each has what others may perceive as a flaw. But it makes them who they are and unique.

The setting is fun as I love fantasy and gaming themes. This isn't based in a game but has the group feel to the team.

Kristin James is one of my favorite narrators. I love listening to her bring the characters to life. She puts emotion into their voices. And the transitions are clean and clear.

I'll gladly listen to the rest of the series!

I received this audiobook at no-cost from AdoptAnAudiobook.com. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.

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Audio Book Review: The Wrong Witch to Hex With by Molly Harper

The Wrong Witch to Hex With by Molly Harper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

We are returning to the island but to another family on the other side of the island. The Seaworth's.

They live in secret, hidden by their families magic. But things are evolving with the ghosts they have captured and closed up in the underwater locker.

Linney follows her sister to Starfall Point thinking she's meeting a man in secret. Which, she is but not for the reason Linney thinks. Linney doesn't make trips to town very often, and loves checking things out. But, she gets caught in a haunted alley with a ghost tour group and a ghost who demands she tell his story because the guide is wrong about it all.

This is the first time Linney meets Gray.

Grayson's trying to make his grandfathers ghost tour company work. He wants to do this. But he's having troubles with his siblings that want their inheritance, which the business was left to him and not them. And he's noticing the things that are moved in his home, that he didn't move.

They are drawn together, Linney and Gray, through different events. But does Gray want to be involved in the world of ghosts? That's a lot! Especially when there's someone out to get the Seaworth's.

I love this world that's created. This is a different view on the same island. The Seaworth's have a different magical connection to them. And they are the ones that see the ghosts that escape from Shaddow House. We do see the coven present in the book, mainly with Mina who's home from college for the summer.

I'm thinking there could be more interactions between Seaworth's and Shaddow House coven in the future books.

This book has the action of having to fight, magical and supernatural presence, along with finding love. It's a series I enjoy when I want fun, light, and a little more to my stories.

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Audio Book Review: Brighteyes by C.T. Phipps and Michael Suttkus

Brighteyes by Michael Suttkus
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book with Ashley and her adventures, picking up where we left off in the first book. It's also set in a larger world where other series cross with this one.

The story picks up loose threads from the first book. We see Gilroy, again. Ashley's siblings and their conflicts are a focus, leading to a whole problem of it's own with the Magestic 13, vampires, and even trafficking.

We get to dive back into Ashley's past. We get to see what she remembers of her family when younger. We even get to see how things went when she was lost to her vampire addiction. And, as things unfold, we learn more about her family in the end. Very interesting how things go!

There's action as we go into battles. Ashley's sword is still cool. I love this. I know Ashley always has things running through her mind and spirals out on strange thoughts, which is fun because she relates to comics and such. Always fun throw backs too. I did feel at times we got a lot of information told to Ashley at one time. Then into action we'd go.

Ashley starts to see who her friends are and maybe even rekindling of a relationship...if she wants?

I ended this audiobook with a "No. You didn't just do that to me." This goes to the authors. That was a surprise ending. Now I need to know all about how that came to be. lol.

I struggled some with the narrator and her voices in this audiobook. She has Ashley sounding whiny. She has a slower pacing to her speaking.

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Audio Book Review: Uncontrollable by Sean Oswald

Uncontrollable by Sean Oswald
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Crafty play with Roll Playing rules in this story.

I really liked the play with words and creating the ephemeral theme. Ever changing. This would be something interesting to try to play out as a character. And with it being a story, it's all a strange shock to the main character, Tim.

Tim doesn't have any friends in the world he just woke in. Making friends can be a little complicated if you look different today as you did yesterday. This is what he rolled, ephemeral, and he's trying to make his way in the world with it.

Tim's at the center of what's happening. For the good or for the bad? I'm not sure. I bounce back and forth depending on the god we see interact with Tim. He's over powered yet has so much to learn. The events in this book are getting Tim ready for what's to come. So what's to come?

There's more going on in the world. With the gods and rulers. They haven't told Tim yet, but we see it in the Prologue and Epilogue. I'll be listening to the next books as this is a fun idea and I'm curious as to what's happening that we aren't seeing, yet.

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Audio Book Review: Which Upon by Jayne Bicker

Which Upon by Jayne Bicker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this audiobook at no-cost from AdoptAnAudiobook.com. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.

There's a lot of fairy tale themes blended into this world. Some go with names of the characters or themes in their life's events. Like Hook and Peter and their taverns. Red and Wolf along with others. I'd love to compare names and connections with you. I had fun seeing the connections and references to the fairy tales, and looked forward to reading more of them as the book unfolded.

Dusk is our main female character here. She had me curious at the beginning. It appeared she's the witch and the villain of the story. (I do love a good villain.) But there was something...just a little more to her. I was picking up on other things in her thoughts.

Can a character be both, a villain and one that helps? That's what drew me to Dusk even more. The crafting of her actions. And she's my damaged kind of character.

Dusk lives with the consequences of her actions along with her mother's past. She's a witch, after all. So she's built her own barriers to protect herself, even from her adoptive family.

Then Willoak, or Oak as friends call him, comes along.

Yes, this has a romance that happens and is for adults with a few scenes.

Oak has his own reason for being in Dyr kingdom, from his kingdom - Clubs. He's a fun main male character to balance Dusk. He's also a halfling. That's part of the game between him and Dusk, what type of halfling is he? We will find out in the end. And I think I love him even more!

Dusk has her own internal struggles and journey to go on, which happens in this book with the events that unfold and happen. I loved that the movement of the story kept going forward and the events kept the story interesting as Dusk learns about how she is handling things.

The narrator is a lovely voice. I enjoyed listening to her. All is clear and clean.

I did love the ending as well. I want to continue with this series and see how others continue to do in the world.

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Audio Book Review: Never Been Witched by Molly Harper

Never Been Witched by Molly Harper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the last of this trilogy with these ladies and I enjoyed it.

It held the same feel as the first two with Riley and Caroline. Alice has some past she doesn't want to share with the girls because she may have shared a few things with the wrong person. Innocently, of course. So with Alice feeling like she doesn't belong and cutting herself off from her coven, she's also cut her magic off from them. And she along with they are seeing things feel different. Alice also will face her grandparents and how they look down on others, along with her.

Alice is coming into her own now. She has friends that stand by her and appreciate her. Sure, there's always pasts and things to work through.

We also meet Collin. He's new to town but he spent years here in his youth. He comes with his own past and struggles. Something he needs to work past is his ex...girlfriend/fiance and family. All while he's trying to bring the Dutchess back to her glory hotel days, starting with removing that awful orange. He'd like to add antiques to the rooms, and Alice is knowledgeable about antiques and what will fit the design he's looking to create.

There's a connection there with Alice and Collin. And not realizing it, they help each other through some tough times with people. And ghosts.

There's a ghost story that goes with The Dutchess that others didn't know, and it's connected to Alice too. Great story there.

We also get the finish with the Ghost Locks in Shaddow House along with who the Willing is that's in town and wants it all and why. I was hoping we'd get this finally, and you'll be surprised how it all connects. Did you expect that person to be the Willing? I didn't.

There's a new series that's starting soon with people in another area but in the same world. I'm definitely going to pick it up when it comes out. :)

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Audio Book Review: Big Witch Energy by Molly Harper

Big Witch Energy by Molly Harper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

We have an over all arch of the Ghost Locks in the house and finding haunted items to tend to the ghosts. But this is Caroline's story, her life and actions.

I really like Caroline. She's head strong and sassy. She was one I really loved hearing speak up in the first book. She says the things that others whisper or think about. She's one to do what needs to be done for her family. She also doesn't do a steady relationship. And we get her reason for it in her book.

Her family has a curse...They can't leave the island, or at 24 hours they have a terrible accident.

This curse has dictated what Caroline will do. She's stayed home and working the family bar. Even when her high school love left to become a doctor and live his life. He never believed in the curse, thinking it was her way to stay at home and try to help her family that seem to take advantage of her kindness.

Ben has returned to the island with his two teenage children. This is going to be a tough conversion for them all. He still has feeling for his high school love, after all these years.

Seeing Caroline and Ben reconnect is fun. Also with the kids. The kids are smart and witty. I loved meeting Mina and Josh. And they have great ideas, advice, and add spontaneity to the story. They also are more than we know. Love this little connection that is created.

We do get to see ghosts. There's one that needs help and one that's causing big trouble, especially for the Wilton family. Caroline is determined this could very well be connected to the curse of her family.

I enjoyed this. And diving into the third book ASAP. These are fun and light stories I needed right now.

The narrators are the same as the first book, which is nice because they have voiced all the characters and know their personalities. We have a female narrator for Caroline's POV and a male narrator for Ben's POV. I like this dynamic, really gives the feel from two different minds.



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Audio Book Review: Witches Get Stuff Done by Molly Harper

Witches Get Stuff Done by Molly Harper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I wanted a light, fun listen. This book fit my need perfectly.

This book is done from two views, Riley and Edison. Riley comes to Starfall Point, an island town, to meet an aunt she didn't know she had until after her mother passed away six months ago. After a dreadful trip on the ferry, Riley learns her Aunt Nora passed away and she's inherited the estate.

Riley's one who likes to try different jobs. This job of house steward at Shaddow House is a position that she accidently falls into. Oh Shaddow House. I love Shaddow House. Ghosts! There's so many ways this can go. There's an unbelievable number of ghosts here. Maybe Riley can help them. And there's more history to the house that could become a problem for Riley.

Riley is in a small town now, that can become like the big family she never thought she'd have yet always wanted. She will find herself a coven of great ladies. I do love their personalities. And maybe even a man. Yes, this is where Edison comes in. But both Edison and Riley have personal things to work through.

Riley's retorts to all things make me smile while helping keep the story light and moving forward with fun. This was a series I needed. Well written and the audiobook was nicely done.


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Audio Book Review: A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Everyone heals and rebuilds in different ways.

This is a nice interlude to all the action of the series. Winter Solstice is nearing and it's a nice time to see the family, even chosen family, together to enjoy the time and celebrate.

There's a lot of rebuilding to be done, and it's the theme of the story. Rebuilding physically with Velaris after the battle here. Rebuilding in helping people through this time. Rebuilding of relationships; family, friends, and allies. Even working to rebuild ones self after all you've been through. All of it are small steps and work. It's seen that any healing is done differently, personally and physically. We see that here.

We also get to see everyone have a bit of fun in this celebrating time. It's kind of like a Christmas celebration with everyone.

This story also is a bridge for bigger things yet to come. It shows where a few of those hit hard in the battle are at now. Even talks about things that are stirring. Things that will need attended in the story to come. This is nice seeing these ties, as even though there's a celebration for the season, life doesn't stop and work still happens.

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Audio Book Review: A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I got my answer to my Suriel question! I'm good with the answer and I love the Suriel.

So. We see all the planning and the consequences from actions (I'm glad not all are good because...that makes it more relatable, they aren't perfect). And the big battle! Wow, the Big Stars that make an appearance for this battle. Cool.

The first half of the book felt slower for me. This is laying of the brickwork base for the second half. The last half is all action, facing their fears and rolling with what needs done. And the fighting.

So on to the characters....
I'm disappointed in Tamlin. Yet, he kind of redeems himself. It feels like he's desperate for love in his life. He's just not going about it properly.

Feyre. How is it Feyre is so cunning and able to do all she does? It feels so fast that she's shifted from struggling to survive to burning down a court from the inside. And taking on enemies that others can't touch. I guess she has the element of surprise on her side, because no one expects it from her.

I have to give Rhys credit. He holds his cool rather well with the mating bond with Feyre. There are times I thought he's hammer heads or be jealous, but it doesn't show on him. And I have to add, he treats Feyre with respect and as an equal. Listening to her ideas, talking through them, and using them. I love this!

I'm glad Nesta and Elain come around here. But, in the end, they have a lot to work through.

There's a few who get what they deserve. And...I liked it. There's others we feel for. And many have actions they never thought they'd make that they'll now have to live with.

I'll be continuing with the series to see how everyone's lives go from here.

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Book Review: Of Steel and Scale by Keri Arthur

Of Steel and Scale by Keri Arthur
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

*phew* Let me take a breather here.

This book is none stop. I didn't want to put it down as every page turn was full of story progression. I should probably go back and read it again as I was just drawn into the events and getting through all the struggles with Bryn.

We start with Bryn out to see the drakkons as she always does, but she knows this could be her last time to see this drakkon Queen. She's to be married tomorrow and will leave for the land of her betrothed. However, she sees smoke from one of the port towns. That's now destroyed and not one survivor. Who would do this? Their long time foe don't do these things, but could they have a new weapon?

As Captain to her father's army, she sends word and the king comes with help. Which her betrothed also arrives. She does find he's attractive, but there's a long way to go in getting to know each other. Then there's an attack on the ship Bryn is on when returning to home to prepare for tomorrow. And the events keep happening!

Bryn is absolutely my kind of princess. She's a captain and knows what to do and how to do it. She doesn't sit still and knit, nope she's out in the action. And watching drakkons, which come to her for help. A similar foe has attacked them. The Queen drakkon is in need of healing for her hatchlings along with wanting to fight.

Another thing I was drawn to was the magic here. Bryn is one with two magics, she can mentally speak with animals along with having fire she can wield. The speaking with animals feels like there could be more to it too. I'm curious about this little hint dropped and want to see what comes of it. Also, Damon, Bryn's husband, has a magic power. Blood magic. It's interesting because blood magic is a protective magic, not a death magic as other books make it be. I love this twist.

Bryn and Damon... this is an interesting couple. I do enjoy their interactions, their flirting and fun quips. But I also like that Bryn lays down the law quickly and Damon accepts it. They have just met and they need to get to know each other. There's a relationship starting and there's more bonding to happen with them, but it feels like a great start.

I got to the end of this roller coaster ride with Bryn and the drakkons and realized I need to know what we're going to do now! Bryn can rest and get a good night's sleep along with eating, and ready to fight the next day.

The next book is releasing soon, and you bet I'll be picking it up ASAP.

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Book Review: Alone at Night by Skyla Dawn Cameron

Alone at Night by Skyla Dawn Cameron
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I don't know how Skyla does it, but I'm hooked and sunk into this series for the long haul.

I'm loving the mysteries we get. Sure, there's a mystery to solve but we also get so much more of the world and other characters are we go. We are emersed in the town, characters lives, and so much more that we feel like we're there and seeing them. So much so that I want to Google the Crossroads Butcher to see if I can get info on the deaths and more. lol.

Waverly, who's our main character and we see event and people through her eyes, is my kind of character. She's flawed. She's got hang-ups that people don't like. She knows this and accepts this about herself. She has socializing struggles, and knows others see her as strange. But, once again, she knows herself and comfortable in her skin along with using her flaws to get the job done.

This book is us following the loss of a daughter at the mothers request. Her daughter struggled with depression and suicide was her escape. But the mother wanted to know about her daughter as she'd pulled away in the last year and the mom just wanted to know her, feel a little closer to her. Thinking there's not much of a case, Waverly tells the mom this but is urged to look.

As Waverly looks, more things come to light than anyone would have guessed. Oh boy is there. And Waverly becomes a target too.

Waverly gets roped into babysitting her little brother, which is a hoot. That boy learns a few things from Waverly. lol. And maybe has a few scares. But it's a great bonding time for her and Monty.

This book feels to start a little slower on the mystery side, however I was flipping pages to get more with Waverly. We get a deeper view of Waverly with Sebastian and her thinking with the business. There's a new idea here, and we get to see her with her moms.

I'm completely invested in this series. Waverly is growing as a person and slowly she's picking up new pieces for her sisters case and learning new things along the way that come in handy along with a new angle to look at things with her sisters case.

I'm so looking forward to the next book, releasing SOON when I do this review.

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Between Ink and Shadows by Melissa Wright

Between Ink and Shadows by Melissa Wright
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

We start right into the story. This sounded like a story that would be one I'd really enjoy. With the plot and the world. But... I didn't feel an attachment to Nim. I'm not for or against what she does. I was just listening.

The story idea is a great one. One that I'd love, and do love. But the writing doesn't feel my style.

It felt that the big moments and reveals were mentioned quick and then moved on from. I would have liked more feelings from Nim, physical descriptions with them and drawing the world more with them.

There's a romance, that I think could work. An enemies to lovers, but it fell short for me. I know Nim's attracted to magic but there wasn't much in way of getting to know each other to bring them together.

Overall, this felt like a well written draft that could be fleshed out a little more.

I'm sorry to say the story fell flat for me.

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Audio Book Review: Six Scorched Roses by Carissa Broadbent

Six Scorched Roses by Carissa Broadbent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I came into this a little nervous. This book is a novella and it's romance which can be a let down with shorter story length to hit what is needed to feel true and not rushed. So I had questions and worries...how will this work out? Quick and under fleshed out?

I am thrilled to share that I'm pleasantly pleased with this book from the story to the romance.

I liked Lilith from the beginning. She has a focus and a reason. I love that she's a scientist and has a few quirks too. She knows who she is and accepts herself. There's a sickness in her people, and she's determined to cure it. A strong responsibility to cure it as her father brought it on from their god.

I've listened to books 1 & 2 in this series and listening to this after book 2. So I've briefly met these characters in book 2. But I wanted to know their story. I liked coming back to meet them afterwards, getting a more intimate look at who they are.

The pairing connection builds in this novella beautifully and naturally. There's something that attracts the two together, and they build on it.

Something I loved with this novella is that there's other relationships that grow in this story, creating a well rounded world, characters, and story. It's more than a one dimensional move in the world, focusing on more than just love of one couple.

I love, love, love the sister moment we get. So heartfelt!

Well done. I really loved this creation.

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Audio Book Review: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I liked this book. There are many things touched on in it. The fae world building is beautiful here, and I know it's just started with there being numerous courts here. I feel there's a solid theme, there's so much more to love.

Why do I feel that theme?
Because we see Tamlin stifling Feyre. He's trying to change her into a person she's not. I know, they both dealt with some serious trauma under the mountain. But, sometimes two that are so damaged aren't good together. They aren't helping each other. And even when Feyre tried, Tamlin stepped back further. Please don't let love stifle you. Even if someone loves you, it might not be the right kind of love for you. That's important too.

Sarah's writing along with the narrators voice both work amazing together to grow the dynamic and difference in how Feyre feels when with Tamlin then with Rhysand. This is amazing to get that feel from them both. There's such a growth in the dynamic and difference between Tamlin and Rhysand and the situation with them and Feyre.

Rhysand... His court is like the land of misfit toys. lol. I love his close and personal court and friends. The personality that bursts from each of them. He lets his people be themselves. He's so very different than what he lets other courts see. And I really enjoyed this and seeing the hidden places. He's great for pushing Feyre to be herself and what she can be.

I have a few things I'm hung up on, questions in a way. The Surial. Why is it so easy for Feyre to catch and get information out of? There just seems to be more to this. And her sisters, at the end... Why keep creating allies? The terrible king knows it works, so why two times? A gift? I feel like there's more here too.

So, I'll be carrying on with the series. :)

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Audio Book Review: Treasures, Demons, and Other Black Magic by Meghan Ciana Doidge

Treasures, Demons, and Other Black Magic by Meghan Ciana Doidge
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book 2 left me worried for so many of Jade's friends. I found out about all I was worried about in this book.

Jade sneaks out from training on a rest day and the whole mission takes on a life of it's own from there. We bump into friends and find out who needs saving and where.

After the ending of book 2 and where we go in this book, I'd feel emotionally beat up if I was Jade. What she sees from Sienna (that girl should not be as strong as she is! Dang! I totally get the draw to the dark side) in what she does to people, and Jade's friends. It's looking like there's no getting ahead of Sienna or defeating her. But I'm glad Jade compartmentalizes and keeps going to do her best to get to Sienna. There's a lot to the dark magic side that we get to see.

Jade is still learning about her abilities and herself too. Her heritage is unique and I love the characters we meet with that heritage.

The arc of Sienna does come to a close here and how they deal with the debt bond between Jade and Desmond.

Where will things go from here? I feel Jade has some trauma healing to do along with figuring out what she wants to do, of course bake cupcakes but more too. We have a few spin off series with characters that come into contact with Jade and Jade has more in her future too. I look forward to listening to them all.

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Audio Book Review: The Ashes & the Star-Cursed King by Carissa Broadbent

The Ashes & the Star-Cursed King by Carissa Broadbent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Now that we have the answers to Oraya that I needed, this story is what I wanted. There's fighting for their lives, scheming, betrayal, connection, and love. A nice blend of it all.

Oraya really tortures Raihn, holding him responsible for what he did at the end of the previous book. But, his actions...seems to me were for the good. Oraya's just not seeing it as her heart's broken. The heart is a strong emotion. These two have ideas that are similar about what needs done with the citizens, they just aren't at the same page yet. And they don't know what the other's thinking or doing because there's something going on with the different fractions. Are either one even save in the castle?

I loved the way we got insight on Vincent's past and thoughts on Oraya. This was a nice touch with magics. And on her mother too. This fills in gaps for Oraya and for us too.

Will Oraya and Raihn find their way back to each other, alive? Or will the other vampire houses destroy them both? There's a lot mentally to work through for them both. We see passing of time as they do with the book broken in parts and the moon phases.

This feels to be nicely written for me. The blend of internal torment and heartache along with external dangers. There are many pieces moving and changing and different people with their own agendas. It all works together nicely for the characters to find friendships, loyalty, betrayal, and love.

I know this is Oraya and Raihn's stories, but I have questions about other characters. I'm looking forward to continuing the series and getting those stories through their eyes.

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Book Review: Antiphon by Ken Scholes

Antiphon by Ken Scholes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

REREAD THOUGHTS:
How did I forget some of these amazing things since I read this 15 years ago? And how has it been that long ago???

Wow. I'm blown away by this book once again. Definitely still a 5 star read. We see how deep the beliefs go, the prophecies and gospel. We dive deeper into everyone's lives as they travel through their part of events to accomplish goals. Goals they aren't even sure of yet.

This is a middle child book, book 3 of 5. We get answers and learn more as things get serious and close. I'm invested for the results. Who will pull through? Who are they? I'm looking forward to see how things come together.
~~~~~
ORIGINAL REVIEW:
Oh, where do I start with this one. Ken has to have a metal mans memory for the wondrous things he does here. To remember all the little threads he starts, then we get to the new things created here. This book takes Fantasy to a whole new level with the old fantasy feel and mechanicals mixed in, then there are magicks in the mix and hints of gods and different worlds. This series is truly one of the most in depth mesmerizing epic fantasy reads I have been captivated by. The author is really talented.


So much is happening and every word is important to the story. The words could have so many different meanings to them when you start putting them together.

The story continues on in the lives of the characters as we go through the changes in the world. The chapters are broken in to separate Point of Views as in the previous two books, which helps greatly in getting all the information to you. And very well broken apart to understand each character.

Rafe - The captain of the ship was porting Gypsies to the Sanctorum Lux until he is visited by the Moon Sparrow used by the Francines in the past, to stop by an island. And is hijacked by metal men.

Rudolfo - Once certain of what his place was and what to do, now is unsure what he is to do with the world that is crumbling around him. He still works hard to help the refugees showing up at his lands and save the light, but at what cost to the Ninefold Forest. How much help can Rudolfo spare in this drastically changing world.

Jin Li Tam - is still having the dark horrible dreams, but not as often now with Jakob better. She finds a small silver mecroservitor sparrow trapped while she is walking in the woods. The mechanical sparrow is looking for Isaak.

Petronus - now living with the scars on his neck and over his heart is having dreams wanting to be heard and understood, but he just can't grasp them. Instead he wakes in cold sweats.

Winters - now living in a city for refugees by the library the mechoservitors are creating. She does paperwork but it seems as she has lost her faith, the old faith of her people. Waiting in this new life she is making, in the Ninefold forest, for Neb to return to her.

Vlad Li Tam - He and his few sons and daughters who where fortunate enough to be rescued have returned to they dreaded island, for six months now, to seek what they can of the Machtvolk who tortured them and have lived here. Vlad Li Tam still watches for the light he had seen in the water that day six months ago.

Neb - He is deep in the Churning Wastes with Renard, his guide. He has learned to survive and thrive here. But now he sees new visitors, to fast to be scouts of the Gypsies or even users of the black roots. But he still tries to decipher the response needed to the canticle of the silver crescent. Neb and Renard separate to carry out different deeds with the new visitors only to find trouble lays in front of him.

All these characters are shaken up and a little lost with how to respond to the whole situation and happenings of the last six months. And things are not getting better.

I did find myself getting lost in some of the story depth. It is amazing the depth of the manipulation of the characters. To try and piece it all together at times is hard to do, but I love trying to get there before Mr. Scholes.

There is a mixture of wizards and magics with science and technology in these books. Even the hints of Gods and different worlds. I would definitely suggest this captivating series to any fantasy reader who likes to get lost in the tangled webs of manipulation.

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Audio Book Review: A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Okay. Can I just sit right here, after this book and enjoy the peace? I listened to Throne of Glass series and I know what Sarah can do to her characters. And it hurts my heart.

Very much a Beauty and the Beast theme to the story with Feyre. The way she gets to Prythian, how Tamlin is, how they react to each other, and things aren't as they seem. Even through to the end. Now, there is some faery twists to the story, but the theme is strongly there.

The beginning was slower moving. Had I been reading instead of listening, it probably would have taken me a little longer to get through it.

Now, when Feyre gets a grip on herself and opens her eyes to what's going on around her and returns to help. Now, this is what I really loved. She gets in deep with the fae and makes a deal she's probably not up to par for. We see new deals made and how she gets through her three deadly tasks. It's tough and political games in play as we meet new people. And with fae, there's always a riddle. Did you know the answer to the riddle? I had a strong feeling that was the answer but wasn't 100% sure at the time.

The ending...I could comfortable have the ending right here. There are deals made and things that are yet to be answered, but it's NOT a cliffhanger ending. It's a nice ending that completes the story here. Now, onto the next books!

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Audio Book Review: Trinkets, Treasures, and Other Bloody Magic by Meghan Ciana Doidge

Trinkets, Treasures, and Other Bloody Magic by Meghan Ciana Doidge
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book started right into action. I really liked this, though I thought the book was going to go another direction with this beginning. And we ended up somewhere else. So I hope these people we meet at the beginning will return (likely since we met them) in the future.

I love the interaction Jade has with everyone. We have our returning friends, Scarlett, Kett, Kandy, Desmond, and Gran. Along with a few others. ;) And we have a new face that I'm surprised at how she interacts with Jade. I actually love it because they both need someone who understands where they are emotionally at this time. (I'm going to reference the ending of book 1 here so you know, but if you haven't read, you don't get a spoiler.)

There's more going on with that debt bond....and will there be troubles with others? Oh this is interesting.

THE ENDING!! Gaaaaaaahh! Really!?!?! Why do this to me? Us? lol. I'm just so so glad that the next book is available because I am diving in as soon as I'm done typing this up. I knew there was something big with Jade's father. I did not think that. I loooooooove this! But, how we end. What about everyone?!?!

These books flow nicely in the writing and events. However, there was a distraction that I didn't understand happening. It didn't seem to fit for me. And then later everyone wants Jade to do something though she really doesn't want to. Then she finally decides to go. I didn't care for everyone fluffing her thoughts off here. Jade usually stands up for herself, but in these moments she isn't heard by others. I'm hoping others will start to listen to her more as she learns more about her magic in time.

Okay. Off to book 3. Because of reasons. (When you get here, you'll understand. So have book 3 sitting there waiting for you.)

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Book Review: A Wild Kind of Darkness by Skyla Dawn Cameron

A Wild Kind of Darkness by Skyla Dawn Cameron
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Skyla has turned this fantasy reader into a mystery, fiction reader.

Wow. I was super invested in this book for the characters and the cold case.

The books first draw for me was Waverly trying to get in to see the person she found at the end of the last book. (I don't want to give anything away!) She's as patient as she can be. I love Waverly because she's a damaged character with her own baggage, and trying to not sound like a creepy stalker. As we get to see this person, I am completely invested in what they have to share, offer, and how they are doing. Will they make it?

While we are waiting for hospital visitation times, we have a person who comes to Waverly with a cold case of a family member. The family was never allowed to speak of an aunt that was murdered with her boyfriend. It was too hard on the father. So, now that the father's passed away (of natural causes) the family would like to get some information on the case. Waverly accepts it, expecting to not really find anything with the age of the case.

I really enjoyed how Waverly found who she wanted to talk with and the "chats" they had. Waverly has a direct fashion about her and this makes for fun interactions. But, things start happening around Waverly. She finds another dead body. She's attacked. She puts it all together in the end. Great ending for this cold case! I had the twinges of thoughts, but didn't go that path so it was a nice surprise to see the ending. And the details are in the book, a couple of times, to fit with this ending.

There is also the over all elephant in the room... What happened to Meadow's body? Where's the murderer? This book doesn't give many details on it but we all have it in the back of our minds. We are waiting for our newest character to remember anything that happened to them...and maybe what could lead to Meadow's body. This is the mystery of the series arc, and I am looking forward to learning more as Waverly shares thoughts and bounces ideas off our new secondary character. I can't wait!

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Audio Book Review: Cupcakes, Trinkets, and other Deadly Magic by Meghan Ciana Doidge

Cupcakes, Trinkets, and Other Deadly Magic by Meghan Ciana Doidge
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an urban fantasy read I really enjoyed. It has it's own personality, with the cupcake shop Jade (our main Female character) owns. And we have the classical pieces in it with werewolves or pack, vampire, and underpowered potentially more character that's learning all sorts of things.

It's a fun read with learning, betrayal, and more.

I love that Jade has her own thing that she does because she loves it and to relax, baking. Jade has her own personality. She knows who she is and is a little sassy when she's in tight positions, a reflex for her to stay calm. She is half witch and knows she's under powered. But things happen and people see other things. This book is from Jade's POV but we get the feel from what others say that there's more here, more to Jade.

There are murders happening and the leads the vampire, Kett, and were pack to Jade...because of the trinkets that are what she makes. Buuuut, there's something off about them. Someone's using her trinkets in these murders.

Jade is pulled into the dynamic of Kett along with Hudson and Desmond (pack). While searching for who the killer is, Jade will start to question who she is magically. She just attracts magical items, that's all. Right? Who's her father?

As things go along, things get darker and darker. Jade's unwilling to go along with the investigations, but she does because she feels a little responsible when her trinkets are found with the dead. With going along, Jade expands, learns, and grows in her strength and curiosity.

Who's behind all these deaths?
Sure, I saw who it was early on. But it didn't deter from the book for me. I really loved Jade and her interactions with everyone along with the actions of the story.

The writing flows nicely through the book, events leading to events along with leading us to who and why.

The audiobook is nice too. I found it easy to listen to and liked the narrators voice.

Will I continue the series? ABSOLUTELY! I already downloaded the next three books!

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Audio Book Review: Mind over Magic by Lindsay Buroker

Mind over Magic by Lindsay Buroker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fun listen for me. Morgen is out of her element, way out, and on an adventure. She's not backing down.

Morgen has inherited her grandmother's home and land just in time after going through her divorce and losing her job. The plan, to clean up the house and maybe sell it. When she arrives with her vizsla dog (I love this as I have a half vizsla dog!) Lucky, she's roughly greeted by a werewolf who threatens her. He's here to protect the land and Wolf Wood, that has magical properties. But when she gets to the house...she finds at her grandmothers... It's nothing like she expected. There's all sorts of witchy items, body parts in jars, old books, and wands. Wands around the root cellar.

Morgen is definitely out of her element with magic, witches, werewolves, and what else maybe lurking in the area. She's a tech person. But she has the family touch. She's a bit shy and even scared of everything. But she's not one to back down when she's pushed. And she gets pushed. Amar has become one of the few that helps her, and even protects her in time of need. She wants to help him too, for all he's done for her and not had to.

Morgen has to figure out what she wants to do. Is there a home to go back to? Or keep the land and stay?

Morgen has made a few enemies. But she's made one good friend. He'll help her and protect her. And I'm thinking this will bloom into something far more than friendship.

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Audio Book Review: Dark Arts and a Daiquiri by Annette Marie

Dark Arts and a Daiquiri by Annette Marie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a relaxing series for me to enjoy.

Tori's a bartender in a mage guild's club. She's human and really shouldn't be here. But she's found the place and seems to fit in with the members. She's making some great friends.

This book is about Tori. We see more of her past with her family. She's got some history that she's had to work through and it surfaces with the case the guys, Aaron, Kai, and Ezra, ask her to help with. A young girl that was missing previously, is now bumped up to a true job to find her as she's suspected to have been taken by The Hungry Ghost. And The Ghost is powerful.

Tori doesn't seem to have boundaries in what she does. She steps into some trouble because she thinks maybe she can help this young girl, because no one came to help her. Tori pretends to have an ability, but she's just human. However, there are times I wonder if she's got a drop of something to her.

In her...trouble...Tori pushes and gets closer to The Ghost. This is interesting! He's interesting.

I had a feeling the story would turn as it did. (I can't say more, if you're curious you'll have to check it out!) And the big battle at the end, nice.

Tori has a way of making friends with so many. And her apartment roommate. lol. That's going to be fun!

I liked how this ended and look forward to seeing her as a stronger person in the coming books. :)

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Book Review: Canticle by Ken Scholes

Canticle by Ken Scholes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

REREAD THOUGHTS:
I love worlds that are built on layers. Layers in the characters, plot, world, and so much more. This book sends my brain into overdrive with all the sticky notes and thoughts on what will happen and why things are happening.

The world is as complicated as the whymer maze. It makes me think of the Mandala because everything affects so many people and events and world. Just an epic feel. People are doing and creating circumstances to for people into someone that will do things in the future. And there's something or someone happening in the background that may even be influencing the people doing the forming. There's always a fork in the road for everyone who influences who they are and impact others too.

Full range of life from birth to passing.

Battles fought, won and lost, and secrets learned and shared.

ORIGINAL THOUGHTS:
I have really been taken away by this series so far. There are going to be five books in all. The characters are well developed and you really get a feel for them all, even the ones you think may be the "bad" guy or girl. The world that is created in these first two books is amazing. You have different cultures, religions, believes and gods. All well done to give you just what you need to understand the rules and what is going on, yet enough to keep you with the feel of mystery.

I think Ken Scholes is an awesome author with an epic tale to tell. He lays the paths of possible ways the story could go, we just have to wonder if we are thinking the correct path. Just when you are on the right path you come to a fork in the road again. The story can change directions at any time, but the rules never change and the information is there to keep you on the correct path of thought, thus creating a great mystery adventure.

Being a second book of a series Ken has started us right into the next story. Not even 50 pages into the book and I was caught up with where I left off on the first book and full scale right into the middle of another great mystery of the Whymr maze in this amazing fantasy book.

This book has; mechoservitors ~ Kens' term for metal men, magick ~ which has limits, Gods ~ are a distant past but are there in the background, an ancient vendetta of two old families and ways of lives, and current people trying their hardest to find where there home is.

These books are amazing reads from the point of view of the characters. You learn so much in this way with the way Ken writes it. Very well done to understand what is going on, just pay attention to get the details.

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Audio Book Review: The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent

The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a vampires meets gladiators blend of a book with a growing attraction and romance.

The beginning was a slow start for me. The first hour of the audio book had me wondering if I wanted to continue. But I did and I enjoyed the ending for it. Once we get into the competition. I'm held here wondering how Oraya, a lone little human, will fair in this competition and how she even thinks she'll make it against vampires that are stronger, faster, and have magical powers.

The main female character says repeatedly that she's human. But this brought up questions for me. How? Why? How did she get there and do that? We do get the answers in the end.

Then there's Raihn. Wow. He's much more than we would have thought. After a while I suspected but didn't know how the the author was going to connect it to make it happen. He's got so so much control for a vampire in this world.

I'm curious about the world. Is it really as Oraya has been told by Vincent, her father. There are others that have control and aren't tempted to have her blood. But she's worried and trained to not trust any vampire. Though there are a few vampires that aren't anything like Oraya expects or is told about.

Oraya learns a lot while in this competition. About herself. About vampires. And her father along with what she can do.

There was lots of fighting, blood, fighting, sexy, and romance.

Yes, I'll be picking up book two with the same characters.

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Audio Book Review: Shield of Fire by Keri Arthur

Shield of Fire by Keri Arthur
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bethany may not want to be in the family business of relic hunting, but she sure fits into it. And she's meeting new people that can be great contacts and help in the future.

Bethany's powers are growing, and she's learning her limits. She has a great group surrounding her that can help with her missions. Lugh her brother, Mathi her ex, Cynwrig her current lover, and Elgin a current/new lover. Then she has Sgott who is in charge of the night IIT and like a step father to her. All will protect her, and she them.

With working for the Council, hunting for the hoard that went missing, Bethany has a lot to look for. The next on the list becomes a shield and rubies that are stirring destruction and loss with those who are wielding them. And the destruction and body count seems to be around Bethany.

Those that have the rubies and are using them remember Bethany, but she doesn't remember them. At all. Is there something more to this?

Oh, yes. You read that right above. Bethany has two lovers, and yes they know of the competition. See it all has to do with the elf group and pixie group. But they can have fun together, but maybe not more. So why not have fun while you're looking for the one to spend your life with?

Bethany is learning more with each use of the knives, the codex, and the eye. These are some powerful relics and mix that with her magic and heritage. She's one bad*ss pixie.

The world is rich with history and fables. Gods, fey, powers, relics, and unknown creatures. I love seeing the things that they find and how dangerous they are.

I do enjoy this series for Bethany growing stronger and is independent along with the magical that shows up.

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Audio Book Review: Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book continues on with battles, adventure, danger, loss, love, friendship bonds, and so much more.

Violet will be on the search for Andarna's kind. Xaden's battling his new obstacle and afraid of what he may do. Violet's determined to help Xaden on their planned adventure.

There's always battles to be fought and they always seem to know exactly where Violet and even Xaden are at. How is this? You'll find out as you read.

Then we head out on an adventure, in search of Andarna's family and information. What we find is so much more! We get to see the impact of parents on their children. And when things seem to be fun, be prepared for the worst.

Violet is becoming bolder. She doesn't want to be a leader, but dang this girl is a leader. She makes decisions, that she shouldn't make on her on, and acts on them. She's got a touch of diplomacy and brass with being of the mind of a scholar and the black leathers of the riders. Especially when all goes to sh*t, she pulls it all out. She may save the day with winning over or save the day with her blades, either way she's saving the day. Violet is great when she hones her focus on the topic. This comes through her even in the end of the book.

Xaden...he's such a lost one. He's so in love it hurts. His wit is great when it comes to things. Wait until you see him at dinner, you'll know when you get there. He's really helped Violet become herself over the last books. And Tairn with Violet, such a great strength for her.

We lose some of those we know. The venin aren't stopping and they are coming at them harder and harder, knowing the wards are weakening.

A few big turns in this book, were no surprise to me. I figured they would happen. Even in the end. Things could have been so much worse. I was kind of hoping for a further fall than we got. Or even had a back up fall that could have hurt too. This ending...this ending felt like it left us with a glimmer of hope. I laughed when I read it. Seriously, see this as a good thing. For reasons. If you'd like to chat, let me know and we'll talk.

I did listen to the audiobook of this, it's faster for me. And, I'm still not too thrilled with the narrator that's selected. She's not consistent with tones and accents for the characters. It makes it hard to differentiate people when she's speaking. I had to relisten to sections to figure out who was saying what. And I can hear when there's a seam in the recording as she picked up where left off or dropped in a section as the audio has a different tone to it. I'm listening because I can't read fast enough, but it's a struggle at times.

I'm thinking I want the books to have sticky notes in. And I want to pull together all the books at the beginning of the chapters. There's something there!

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Audio Book Review: Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros

Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I get the feel there's a blend of elements from Harry Potter series, Divergent series, and Hunger Games series in this story, with dragons added of course. Lots of danger, secrets, and groups.

This series has become a guilty pleasure for me. It's not ground breaking in it's storyline, plots, or twists, but I can relax and listen to the story with ease.

Violet is one I can see people getting tired of. What she tells Xaden to stop doing, she's doing to her friends. Eventually, she catches on. I understand that she doesn't want secrets, but with a revolution there will always be something that can't be shared. Things are happening so fast for them. And I love Rhiannon, Violet's best friend. She's an awesome friend and kicks butt. All those in Violet's group in Fourth Wing are pretty cool. Their interaction and responses to each other are fun. I do give Violet and her friends that credit, they have great quips back for things. They are learning to work as a team.

I found I liked this book a little more than the first because we get more details about the wards and world building is expanded here. I am one who loves seeing more world details and magic details. Although, there is one magic I am looking forward to learning more about.

Violet goes through a lot while still at the academy. There's teachers that are not on her side, and want to know what she knows. There's friendships and new enemies made through this book.

The ending... when it was all over and done, I felt like it was too quick with the ending. (If you've read or listened to the book, you'll know the part with Violet.) It was confusing when listening to it. I actually replayed it a few times to try to catch what happened. It felt way too fast. So I'm guessing the next book will spend time on sharing what happened and we'll learn about that. (trying to not spoil it for you.)

I still wonder about the War Academy. Like, what the heck did they think they were training for? What they were training and how was not going to help with the problem they knew was out there. They just thought they were safe and no worries. Arrogant, for sure.

We have family drama, war, love, magic, and dragons. Secrets are shared and things are learned.

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