Review of Embrace The Highland Warrior by Anita Clenney

Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Original edition (November 1, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1402251262

ISBN-13: 978-1402251269

Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 4.1 x 1.1 inches

Source: Own Copy

Amazon

Author's Website

http://www.anitaclenney.com/

Summary:

When the powerful demon that left Shay for dead discovers her empty grave, he comes seeking retribution, believing she possesses an ancient book he has sought for centuries. Knowing she can't fight the demon alone, Shay returns to her clan and the Scottish Warrior who betrayed her...the only man she's ever loved, where she discovers that betrayal isn't always what it seems. Sometimes it's far worse.

Review:

One thing that draws me to series books is if I really love the first book, I just have to read the rest because I just can't get enough of these characters. I want to revisit them again and again and this book was no exception. I devoured the fist book and I knew almost immediately I just had to read the second.

Like Bree, I really loved Shay- she is a spitfire and that lately has been my favorite type of heroine. And even though she is tough as nails type of girl, she has the soft side too. As for Cody oh yes definitely my type of hero, fiercely protective and doesn't stop to get what he wants. I loved how their relationship was already thare. It was a refreshing change instead of guy meets girl , boy, smex action, refusal of feelings type of deal. They have a history and I liked that.

Oh one thing I have to mention is the secondary characters, Ronan(I so love him and I really hope he gets his own book), Brode and several others are back as well as Shay's Aunt Nina and Matilda. Matlida I love her, she is very unique and so funny.

This book also had some jawing dropping moments, I have to say I didn't see coming but still left me with some questions as well. No, before you ask there is no cliffhanger just some unanswered questions that I hope get answered in the third book.

I can almost say this book was better than the first, which as all of you know I loved quite a bit. Anita did well with the sequel and can't wait for book 3, Unleash the Highland Warrior. Which still don't know the date and its driving me crazy. I know I will be getting it as soon as its available.

So if you read the first book then this one is a must read for you as well.

Rating:

Review of Awaken The Highland Warrior by Anita Clenney

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 635 KB

Print Length: 433 pages

Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1402251238

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (May 1, 2011)

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

Language: English

ASIN: B004TTS2T4

Text-to-Speech: Enabled

Source: Own Copy

Author's Website:

http://www.anitaclenney.com/

Amazon

Summary:

Historian Bree Kirkland has always been in love with the past, but when she accidentally wakes an ancient Scottish warrior who's spent the past 150 years sleeping in her backyard, her present is suddenly fraught with danger. Faelan has awakened from the time vault ravenous--in more ways than one. He grieves for his lost family, wondering who sent the woman to wake him. If she's a demon, Faelan will have to kill her. If she's innocent, she's unleashed the gates of hell in her backyard. Either way they must rely on each other to save their future.

Review:

I have been wanting to read this book for awhile now and to be honest not sure why I waited as long as I did, but I am so glad I finally did. I started this book last night pretty late and couldn't stop until I was finished that's how good this book was.

I loved everything about this book, the characters, the storyline and not once was I bored, though I felt I couldn't read it fast enough, because I just had to know what was going to happen next.

The characters were well written, and captured my attention from the beginning. Bree, I love her spunk, but she has issues which I could feel through out the whole book. Faelan, 'sigh' I love the fierce protectiveness he has for the people he cares about and even though he has some issues too(which I adore in a hero)though I felt like I wanted to throttle him a few times, but that to me is a making of a realistic character and Anita did a fabulous job of making me feel and want to root for this couple.

There is a couple secondary characters that I fell in love with as well and that is Ronan and Brode, one's a big flirt and the other a trickster. I surely hope we will see more of these two.

If you haven't read this book, then what are you waiting for. If you love highlanders mixed with paranormal and time travel then you must read this book! Not only do I have a new series I can obsess over I have a new favorite author as well. Now off to the next in this series, Embrace The Highland Warrior and I hope can find out when the third in this series, Unleashed The Highland Warrior will be released.

Rating:

Review of Midnight Magic by Nancy Di Fabbio

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Paperback: 240 pages

Publisher: iUniverse Publishing (September 8, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1450291457

ISBN-13: 978-1450291453

Book Courtesy of Author

Amazon

Amazon Summary:

Fourteen-year-old Mattie is obsessed with horses. Thrilled to discover a primitive painting of a beautiful black horse hidden in the attic of her grandmother's home, it is not long before Mattie realizes the image of the painted horse seems to be coming to life. This is no ordinary work of art-this is a painting with a fascinating history that Mattie is about to unearth. One moonlit night, Mattie leaves the safety of her grandmother's home and ventures deep into the surrounding forest where she meets a wild horse who bears an uncanny resemblance to the one in her painting. Mattie and her mystery horse form a bond that she instinctively knows she cannot reveal to anyone. The mysterious spirit who inhabits the painting seems to gain strength as Mattie's bond with the wild horse deepens. But Mattie is uneasy as she wonders-and fears-if the two are somehow connected. Mattie soon realizes she should have heeded her grandmother's warnings to be careful what she wishes for in life-for it is one thing to hope her painted horse is real and quite another to discover he might be.

Review:

Reading this book was a refreshing change of pace for me, as well as bringing back memories of my teenage years. The author's love for horses are painted clearly in this book and I definitely could connect with Mattie. Her low self esteem is felt through out until she is able to find herself while working at Briarwood Stables.

I remember clear as day, the pain of low self esteem as a teenager as well the loneliness of being any only child. So I could definitely understand her obsession with horses, it was something to fill that void. What I loved is that you could see Mattie's progression from low self worth to a very confident young lady. Though with the painting, she becomes a bit withdrawn and almost addicted to having this certain horse.

I also loved the fact, there are lessons to be learned in this book, one being never judge a book by its cover. Mattie so obsessed with this one horse, that she didn't see the gem of a horse she had in front of her.

This book was so well descriptive that I could almost feel the painting as being so life like as well and the fact I kept wanting to shout out, stay away from it..

Overall, I can't say enough praise for this book. I strongly urge you to give this book a try. It's a fast read and believe me it will leave you with a smile on your face.

Rating:

Review of An Everlasting Bite by Stacey Kennedy

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 289 KB

Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited

Publisher: Liquid Silver Books (November 15, 2010)

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

Language: English

ASIN: B004G08XU4

Lending: Enabled

Source: copy given to by Author

Amazon

Goodreads Summary:

Love is born between strangers, yet built upon a bond soul deep―one Alpha’s vow to protect his mate from looming danger, all the while, mending her soul and stirring her wolfish desires.

A vicious Werewolf attack in Plymouth, Minnesota leaves a young woman violated, bitten and now, transformed into a Werewolf. But Rynn Murphy doesn’t have to face this transformation alone—she has her mate by her side. And the charming Briggs is eager to ease her into this new life and mend her battered soul.

With only weeks to adjust to her new fur, Rynn begins to understand what it truly means to be mated to the Beta, secondhand man to Valor, Patriarch of Wolves. Their leadership over the Alphas brings them in contact with the Montana Alpha, Hendrix. He is in a desperate state to find his abducted daughter. Valor and Briggs agree to give aid in her rescue leaving Rynn to tag along.

But this mission is not without danger. And soon, they discover the ones who have taken this young wolf do not want her found and will stop at nothing to keep her hidden. Or so it may seem, as bodies begin to drop around them, the murderous attempts start to appear more as a hit than a smoke screen—leaving only one question, who is the intended target…

Review:

When I started the Magical Sword series, and first read of Rynn and Briggs I knew I wanted to read more of these two. Rynn's story is sad and my heart broke for her but I was so glad to see her come into her own in this book.

Again Stacey didn't disappoint, this book was a quick action packed book mixed with some steamy love. It also had twists and turns which I didn't expect and the ending I was equally shocked with.

I believe Briggs is my new favorite male character though I am sure I will change my mind when I move on to another of Stacey's books.

If you haven't read any of Stacey's books, you should The Blue Bloods is fastly becoming one of my favorite series.

Rating:

Kelly's Review: NICHOLAS

NICHOLAS: The Lords of Satyr (Book 1)
By Elizabeth Amber

Published by: Aphrodisia
First Printing: August 1, 2007
ISBN-10: 0758220391
ISBN-13: 978-0758220394
Amazon; Barnes and Noble; Goodreads

Concept: “The last in a fabled line of otherworldly aristocracy, the Lords of Satyr are born to wealth, power, and a talent for sensual delight that mere mortals only dream of. Commanded to marry, these passionate men will travel to Rome, Venice, and Paris - and along the way will explore desires both shamelessly wicked and blissfully divine...He had sworn to take a proper wife. He hadn't bargained on meeting his match...Nicholas looks very much like what he is - the handsome, successful heir to a vineyard in Tuscany. But Nicholas is much more, for he is one of the last in an ancient line of satyr men. And the dying king of Else World wants him not only to marry, but to wed one of the king's own daughters - a half-human, half-faerie woman unaware of her heritage. Nicholas won't shirk his duty to produce heirs to guard his race's legacies, but he never plans to make his bride his only lover. A satyr's sexual hunger and sensual skills are legendary. One woman will never satisfy him. Or so Nicholas believes until he meets Jane. As spirited as she is fey, as beautiful as she is innocent, she is nevertheless determined to make her new husband hers alone - and she's eager for him to teach her every deliciously carnal secret he knows...” [From Amazon.]

Review: Oh my goodness! This was one sexy, erotic, pornographic, wild read let me tell you! I won’t re-summarize the book for you since the concept description is pretty accurate but some things need some elaboration. Jane plays a strong woman, who is a dumb virgin. She has very contradictory personality traits. Then again, so does Nicholas. So it’s very difficult to completely fall in love, or to completely hate many of these characters. There are some cliché easy to hate characters as well, but it’s fun to hate them. Then there’s the adorable younger and needs to be protected clichéd sister that you of course love. Yes, it is fun to love her too. I found myself being tossed around from one emotion to the other as far as characters go, but I didn’t mind it. There are some absolute naughty sex scenes in here, and naughty in a well, naughty way. It is NOT for the faint of heart that is for sure and I’ll betcha there are a hand full of reviews that will not like the book because of the raunchy and sometimes gratuitous sex. For me though, everything fit in well and I enjoyed it for what it was. In it’s genre, I think it was really well written with a really good story. I will absolutely be getting, reading and reviewing the rest of the books in this series and find out what happens to the naughty but oh so sexy Satyr brothers.

What I disliked: Some of the sex scenes were not my cup of tea, specifically the incestuous ones but, I suppose these were done well in line with the events of the story so I’m not taking off much for that. I had a difficult time with the female lead character. She was virgin, hiding a paranormal secret and was protecting her beloved sister. She was strong in that she had to undergo a series of events but I found her to be one of the most obnoxious female characters I have ever read about. For that, I have to take off some points. I would have preferred for the author to write her character so that I would fall in love with her.

What I liked: This is a historical uber erotic paranormal romance. I really appreciated the uniqueness of this story from a lot of different areas, one of them being historical and about a winery and some of the hard work that goes into the running of one. Some of the historical facts were really interesting and I actually checked them out on the internet after I read the book and they were accurate. I love it when I can learn from reading dirty books.

My rating: 3.5 Stars


Kelly
for Book Lover's Hideaway




This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

The BSP tour Review The Vampire's Curse by S.J. Wright

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 144 KB

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

Language: English

ASIN: B005964RQI

Lending: Enabled

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Goodread's Summary:

Still reeling from having witnessed the vampire battle on her property that left her friend Alex a vampire himself, Sarah Wood is surprised yet again. This time, it's by a familiar face from the past.

Sarah's guilt pushes her into doing something unbelievable. Sarah's ex-boyfriend, Trevor, causes some trouble that will have lasting effects. Michael finds himself in the unusual position of saving a life instead of taking one.

Katie, the sister that Sarah wants to be protected at all costs, is in a new kind of danger.

Don't miss this new, longer look into the world of the Vampire's Warden, Sarah, as she confronts old enemies, new friends and new lovers.

This book is 35,376 words long. It is a novella.

Review:

After reading both books back to back I must say, S.J. must write faster, just kidding but January is too far away to know what happens next. I haven't decided how I feel about Alex I feel like I'm on a roller coaster ride when it comes to him. I also find myself rooting for Michael the further we divulge into this series. But its these cliffhangers that is driving me nuts.

Can you tell I loved the second book in this three book series. Just a little bit huh. It just might be my favorite out of this series. This book was a nice continuation into the series and I can't wait to read book three, Vampire's Redemption coming out in January 2012, doesn't that seem so far away.

I highly suggest you read this series, its just three books and well worth it, this book can be read as a stand alone.

Rating:

Review of The Demon Kiss by Lacey Weatherford

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 284 KB

Publisher: Global Author's Publications (April 13, 2010)

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

Language: English

ASIN: B00452V8SW

Lending: Enabled

Source: Own Copy

Amazon

Goodreads Summary:

Can someone else's past come back to bite you?

After being drained of nearly all the blood in her body, novice witch, Portia Mullins, wakes up to find that her warlock boyfriend, Vance Mangum, has fled in search of his demon father. Determined to keep him from facing the evil alone Portia follows after him, unknowingly setting herself on the path of a new adventure that will take her, Vance, and their coven over international borders, into a foreign place where they will discover that the black magic which awaits them is far worse than they ever imagined. Portia finds herself tangled up in a web of lies and deceit in another's quest for demonic power in the excitingly romantic second paranormal novel in the Of Witches and Warlocks Series, The Demon Kiss.

Review:

I really regret not reading this book sooner, after thoroughly enjoying The Trouble With Spells book so much. I read this book literally in just a few hours I was so entranced by Vance and Portia all over again. I may have mentioned this before but I do have to say it again so forgive me but Lacey writes some killer kissing scenes.

This book picks up where we left off, Vance disappearing and Portia sets off with her friends to go find him and that is where action begins. Can I just say I am more in love with Vance if that is possible than I was in the first book. And Portia, what a tough cookie she is. I could ramble all night about how awesome this book is but I think you should find out for yourselves. Pick up this book and if you haven't read the first that's okay you can read this book and not be lost at all. But I do suggest reading The Trouble with Spells too.

And lastly lucky I am moving on to Book 3 now or I would be screaming at my pc screen in how this book ended. Talk about shock factor!!

Rating:

Review of The Vampire's Warden by S.J. Wright

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 155 KB

Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1460989880

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

Language: English

ASIN: B004NNVKAO

Lending: Enabled

Amazon

S.J. Wright's Links:

Blog

Goodread's Summary:

It was a flash in the moonlight, a blur of motion like I’d never witnessed before. No human had the capacity to move like that. When I found myself face-to-face with him there in the meadow, I knew without a doubt that the journal was authentic. I knew that my grandfather hadn’t been crazy at all. Because a foot away from me stood a vampire. Sarah reads her grandfather's journal in stunned disbelief. What was once her grandfather's responsibility has passed to her father and now to her. She has become the Warden. Her life will never be the same.

Review:

I was surprised just how fast of a read this book was, I devoured this book in just a couple hours. Sarah finds out her life wasn't what it seemed, when her dad leaves her the family inn to run when he passed away but finds out the family secret as well.

Can you imagine finding out that supernaturals do exist? Not sure how I would feel, probably the same way as Sarah did. I thought my favorite was Alex but I think I'm a Michael fan. Thanks S.J. for the twists and turns in this book.

The world-building isn't much in this book but you still can understand exactly how her family became Vampire Wardens(can you imagine inheriting that job?). Overall this book is nice introduction into this series. So if you haven't read this book, you should. I am diving into the Vampire's Curse asap to find out what happens next with Sarah.

Rating:

Review of Mojo Queen by Sonya Clark

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 480 KB

Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited

Publisher: Lyrical Press, Inc. (April 23, 2011)

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

Language: English

ASIN: B004YXF0M2

Lending: Enabled

Book courtesy of Lyrical Press

Amazon

Amazon Summary:

Hoodoo and high magic are on a collision course.

Roxanne Mathis isn't like everyone else. Not only can she see auras and spectral entities, she can mix herbs and roots for spells to do good or ill. She can even light a candle without the benefit of a match. But when she's hired to exorcise a demon from a young girl, she discovers the limits of her powers.

With her vampire cousin at her side and a sexy sorcerer chasing her on the rebound, Roxie sets out to send that evil entity back where to she came from.

Nothing is as it seems and Roxie's in over her head. It's not going to be enough for her to just be a paranormal investigator and old school root worker - to defeat this demon, she's going to have to be the Mojo Queen.

Review:

Witches, Ghosts, Demons and A Vampire Oh My! This book had all that and more. What I loved and found intriguing about this book was it didn't have a stereotypical hero, in fact I did not like the male character in this book at first though parts of me thought there was more to Blake than meets the eye.

Talk about a wild ride though, and I don't mean in a bad way either. But there are parts that even have me wincing. Sonja does a wonderful job with description to bring on that effect with me.Though I didn't expect the book to end the way it did, but it did answer some questions that I had been wondering through out the book.

If you're looking for romance then this book isn't for you, though it does have a hot scene or two in it but if you're looking for a book with loads of action then please give this book a try.

Rating:

Review of Jack and The Jungle Lion by Stephen Jared

Paperback: 126 pages

Publisher: lulu.com (June 19, 2010)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0557508932

ISBN-13: 978-0557508938

Amazon

Book courtesy of Stephen Jared

Amazon Summary:

Battling giant snakes, poison pits and hostile headhunters after a plane crash in the Amazon, movie star Jack Hunter reveals himself to be something altogether different from the macho adventurer he plays in Hollywood. Luckily for him, he's marooned with movie-industry animal trainer Maxine Daniels and her two kids. The lovely "Max" has more than enough high-spirited courage and fiery determination to get them all home. But when terrifying natives capture the feisty heroine, fate calls on the handsome actor to become the hero he always pretended to be in pictures. With such daring demands on the two-fisted matinee hero, will Jack embark on a journey to win the heart of the woman he loves-or perish in the darkest jungles of the Amazon?

Review:

This book was such a fun read, and reminded me of Indiana Jones and Tales of the Gold Monkey both which I loved so much. To be honest that is my secret love, that I don't either read too much about or watch as often as I would like. I love old Hollywood - action adventure type books as well as shows.

I couldn't help but smile as I read this short but fun ride, action galore coated the pages as well as funny moments with a nice romantic kiss or two. So if you are looking for something different and quick to read , give this book a try.

Rating:

About the Author:

As an actor Stephen Jared has appeared in numerous feature films, television series and television commercials. His writings have appeared in various publications. In 2010, he self-published an adventure novel titled Jack and the Jungle Lion. He lives in Pasadena, California.

Stephen Jared's Links

Website

Facebook

Review of Forbidden Highlander by Donna Grant

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 358 KB

Print Length: 352 pages

Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0312381239

Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks; 1 edition (May 25, 2010)

Sold by: Macmillan

Language: English

ASIN: B003JTHYZ8

Source: My own copy

Amazon

Goodreads Summary:

Fallon McLeod has gifts any warrior would covet—fierce strength, unmatched skill, even immortality. But those gifts have come at a price that puts everyone he loves at risk. Only when his brother, Quinn, is taken captive does Fallon leave the seclusion of his Highland home to seek the king’s aid. And though every woman at court would gladly be his for the asking, one alone causes desire to roar to life within him: beautiful, mysterious Larena Monroe.

Rumors swirl around the castle about “The McLeod” but Larena knows the truth. Like Fallon, Larena is searching for a way to vanquish the evil Druid who wants to wreak havoc on earth. Drawn to Fallon in spite of her fear, she surrenders to a passion that shocks them both with its raw intensity. But Larena dares not hope for more—not when she holds a secret that could turn her fiery Highland love against her forever…

Review:

I knew after I read the first book I was going to love Fallon's book or at least I hoped I would. I love the tortured hero(to be honest not too many types of heroes I don't like but the tortured hero is right up at the very top for me.) Something about these men that make me wanna just reach in the book and hug them(if they would let me.)

Larena was the perfect match for Fallon in my opinion, She is tough but at the same time, she had trust issues and afraid to give her heart. I loved how they worked through both their problems to be together.

I do believe this is my favorite out of the series so far, but then that might change once I read Quinn's book which is next. These books can be read as stand alone but in my opinion it makes it better to read in order. So if you haven't read any Donna Grant books I highly suggest you do.

Rating:

Review of Dangerous Highlander by Donna Grant

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 453 KB

Print Length: 352 pages

Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0312381220

Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks; 1 edition (April 1, 2010)

Sold by: Macmillan

Language: English

ASIN: B0031R5JSW

Source: My Own Copy

Amazon

Amazon Summary:

He is magnificently strong—and dangerously seductive. One of the fiercest of his clan, Lucan MacLeod is a legend among warriors, inspiring fear in man and woman alike. For three hundred years, he has locked himself away from the world, hiding the vengeful god imprisoned in his soul. But then, a young lass caught in a raging storm awakens his deepest impulses…and darkest desires.

Cara doesn’t believe the rumors about MacLeod castle—until the majestic Highland warrior appears like a fiery vision in the storm, pulling her into his powerful arms, and into his world of magic and Druids. An epic war between good and evil is brewing. And Lucan must battle his all-consuming attraction for Cara—or surrender to the flames of a reckless, impossible love that threatens to destroy them both…

Review:

I have been wanting to read this series for awhile now, I have seen many good reviews and they have been on my wishlist/TBR for what seems like forever. I finally bought this one out of whim one day. Not sure why hot cover, story called to me but I am sure glad I did. My only regret is that I didn't start or buy this book sooner.

This book combines both of my favorite genres in one, paranormal historical. I was certainly surprised just how fast I read this book, I read this book in one day- I just couldn't put it down. May I point out first and for most I loved the characters that is a must for me, to be able to connect to them which I did wholeheartedly.

As much as I loved the main characters, I equally loved the side characters. I loved the relationships not only with Lucan and Cara but with the brothers as well. I loved how despite all they had been through they stuck together as a family should. What I found especially nice was how welcome they made this girl feel at home though there was a few tense moments.

The backstory was very easy to understand and not once did I feel confused or that it dragged on too long. Overall this book captured my attention and held it to the very end. I can't wait to read Fallon's book which is next in the series, Forbidden Highlander.

Rating:

Series's Reading Order:

Dangerous Highlander

Forbidden Highlander

Wicked Highlander

Untamed Highlander

Shadow Highlander(coming soon)

Kelly's Review: ROOM

ROOM
By Emma Donoghue

Published by: Little, Brown and Company, a division of Hachette Book Group,
237 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017
www.hachettebookgroup.com
First Printing: September 2010
ISBN: 978-0-316-09833-5
Amazon; Barnes and Noble; Goodreads

Concept: “It’s where he was born, it’s where he and his Ma eat and sleep and play and learn. There are endless wonders that let loose Jack’s imagination – the snake under Bed that he constructs out of eggshells, the imaginary world projected through the TV, the coziness of Wardrobe blow Ma’s clothes, where she tucks him in safely at night in case Old Nick comes.

Room is home to Jack, but to Ma it’s the prison where she has been held since she was nineteen – for seven years. Through her fierce love for her son, she has created a life for him in that eleven-by-eleven-foot space. But Jack’s curiosity is building alongside her own desperation – and she knows that Room cannot contain either much longer.

Told in the poignant and funny voice of Jack, Room is a story of unconquerable love in harrowing circumstances, and of the diamond-hard bond between a mother and her child. It is a shocking, exhilarating and riveting novel – but always deeply human and always moving. Room is a place you will never forget.” [From cover sleeve.]

Review: In this world of Jaycee Dugard horrific tales, along comes Room which is fiction but honestly might as well have been written about Jaycee. Told from five year old Jack’s perspective, this story really will be one you will never forget. Jack’s mother has been kidnapped as a teenager and locked into a soundproof 11x11 foot room in a backyard. She has endured repeated rapes and as a result has had two pregnancies. One ended with the death of Jack’s baby sister. “Ma” raises Jack in this room, doing her best to teach him while giving him some sort of life. But it becomes more evident to her as each day passes that she is going to have to do something to save herself and her precious Jack. Together, they work out a plan and Jack does indeed save both of them with an account that will literally have you holding your breath.

The struggle from there to enter a world Jack has never lived in, to be introduced to relatives he never knew he had, indeed just meeting people other than his mother and the monster that held them hostage is part of the story as well. It’s a sad and uniquely interesting story and of course all the way through it, you are pulling for Jack and his mother with an intensity that may surprise you. There are times when you laugh at Jack’s antics and his attempts at understanding the world around him, and there are times when you just sit back and thank your lucky stars that you have some of the simple things in life that we take for granted.

I don’t think I’ll ever forget this story and my mind will return to it frequently I am sure. This was an unusual book in that I’m not sure if it was entertaining or exactly what level it was on, but it was a book that was well worth reading and one I would highly recommend to anyone.

What I liked: Somehow, at the end I was wondering to myself how this would end because Jack’s curiosity could continue forever. But the ending was sublime -- true literary perfection. It easily took me to an ending that I was comfortable with and I was able to close the book and know that Jack and his mother would be okay.

What I disliked: At times, Jack’s English got to me. Even though I understand that he has been locked away in this room, I still didn’t like how “the bed” became “bed” and “the wardrobe” became “wardrobe.” I had to keep reminding myself that these items weren’t simple nouns. They became destinations to Jack. But still, it was annoying at times.

My rating: 5 feathers


Kelly
for Book Lover's Hideaway


This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Kelly's Review: THE PEACH KEEPER

Happy Sunday everyone! I'm sorry I've been awol for a bit, and unfortunately it hit at a time when Donna could have used my presence because she was awol. Anyway, I hope we weren't missed too terribly much. I think things will be back on track now after this weekend.

Speaking of weekends, I hope everyone has a safe and happy 4th of July weekend! I was just telling one of my friends that 4th of July celebrations are my favorites. It sort of heralds in summar and all the fun things you can do during summer seem to happen in this one weekend. I personally am celebrating by doing NOTHING. I'm staying in a cool house, reading, catching up on some sleep, bbqing some damn good food, catching up on some internet stuff, watching tv and movies and reading. ::satisfied sigh::

So here's my latest review of The Peach Keeper. I hope you enjoy it. I welcome your comments too if you would like to comment.

________________________________

THE PEACH KEEPER

By Sarah Addison Allen

Published by: Bantam Books

First Printing: 2011

ISBN: 978-0-553-80722-6

Amazon; Barnes and Noble; Goodreads

Concept: “The New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Chased the Moon welcomes you to her newest locale: Walls of Water, North Carolina, where the secrets are thicker than the fog from the town’s famous waterfalls, and the stuff of superstition is just as real as you want it to be.

It’s the dubious distinction of thirty-year-old Willa Jackson to hail from a fine old Southern Family of means that met with financial ruin generations ago. The Blue Ridge Madam, built by Willa’s great-great-grandfather during Walls of Water’s heyday, and once the town’s grandest home - has stood for years as a lonely monument to misfortune and scandal. And Willa herself has long strived to build a life beyond the brooding Jackson family shadow. No easy task in a town shaped by years of tradition and the well-marked boundaries between the haves and the have-nots.

But Willa has lately learned that an old classmate - socialite do-gooder Paxton Osgood, of the very prominent Osgood family – has restored the Blue Ridge Madam to her former glory, with plans to open a top-flight inn. Maybe, at least, the troubled past can be laid to rest while something new and wonderful rises from its ashes. But what rises instead is a skeleton, found buried beneath the property’s lone peach tree, and certain to drag up dire consequences along with it. For the bones – those of charismatic traveling salesman Tucker Devlin, who worked his dark charms on Walls of Water seventy-five years ago - are not all that lay hidden out of sight and mind. Long-kept secrets surrounding the troubling remains have also comes to light, seemingly heralded by a spate of sudden strange occurrences throughout the town. Now, thrust together in an unlikely friendship, united by a full-blooded mystery, Willa and Paxton must confront the dangerous passions and tragic betrayals that once bound their families – and uncover truths of the long-dead that have transcended time and defied the grave to touch the hearts and souls of the living.

Resonant with insight into the deep and lasting power of friendship, love, and traditions, The Peach Keeper is a portrait of the unshakeable bonds that-in good times and bad, from one generation to the next, endure forever.” [From book sleeve insert.]

Review: Every once in a while, you’ll pick up a book by an author that you love so much that every word they write is like some sort of magical salve to ease your literary wounds. You read a story that comes together so nicely, you don’t see anything negative about it. You enjoy characters so much that you never want the book to end and you want an invitation to the wedding and you’d attend the wedding with the biggest smile on your face and the true glow of love in your heart. That’s what happens for me with this author and her books. The Peach Keeper is her latest installment and it is just as lovely as all of her books. This story introduces us to Willa and Paxton who becomes the type of friends you want in your life. Willa becomes involves with Paxton’s brother and a romance blooms. Paxton has her own romance with a man that nobody can ever seem to figure out if he is gay or not. And the matronly women are as adorable and charming as their granddaughters.

The story moves along so nicely. There are moments of mystery where you will actually gasp. First kisses that will make YOUR heart beat faster. Times too, where you will laugh true belly laughs. I want a movie from this book. I can see a Practical Magic type movie done tastefully and with real stars that can do it justice. I want to *see* what my imagination thinks. Anyway, The Peach Keeper is a true gem of a book and one that absolutely everyone should read because of how lovely it is.

What I liked: I’m prejudiced. Sarah Addison Allen has been and continues to be my favorite author of all time. Her books just make my heart smile and I close each one feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. This book is no different. There was a scene where characters from The Sugar Queen played a part which was interesting and it was cleverly written into the story. You rock Ms. Allen. You just rock.

What I disliked: That it ended. Truly. I wanted more from these characters. I just loved them so much.

My rating: 5 Feathers

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.

Sookie Series Reviews Book One, Two and Three

To Celebrate the beginning of the new season, I been reading the books so this post will be reviews of Books 1-3.

Mass Market Paperback: 292 pages

Publisher: Ace Books (May 1, 2001)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0441008534

ISBN-13: 978-0441008537

Source- Own Copy

Amazon

Goodreads Summary:

For years, Charlaine Harris has delighted fans with her mystery series featuring small-town waitress-turned-paranormal sleuth Sookie Stackhouse. Now, we are pleased to offer her first novel in the series in a special hardcover edition.

And with HBO launching an all-new show, True Blood, based on the Southern Vampire novels, the demand for Charlaine Harris and Sookie Stackhouse will be bigger than ever.

Review:

I am a huge fan of the series, True Blood but hadn't read the books. Which is an odd thing for me because usually I would have read the book or books first. So I was worried after watching the tv show would I like the books or vice versa would I hate the show afterwards. I kept putting it off but I had several people one being my niece kept after me saying you really need to read them. So finally I broke down and started to read and let me say I could kick myself for not reading them sooner.

Once I started to read Dead Until Dark, I found myself more than once thinking well that isn't like that in the show. But that being said I really really loved the start to this series. I felt I connected more to the characters more especially Sookie and my love for Eric has grown even deeper. I am also finding that I don't care for Bill as much as I did.

I definitely could see the differences between the show and the books, especially when it came down to the sex scenes where as in the show its all out there for everyone to see, the books had a subtle quality which I enjoyed just as much.

I have to say if you love the show and haven't read the books like I had please do they are incredible.

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 449 KB

Print Length: 291 pages

Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0441009239

Publisher: Ace (March 26, 2002)

Sold by: Penguin Publishing

Language: English

ASIN: B000O76OOA

Source; Own Copy

Amazon

Amazon Summary:

When a vampire asks cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse to use her telepathic skills to find another missing vampire, she agrees under one condition: the vampires must promise to behave and let the humans that are involved to go unharmed. Easier said than done. All it takes is one delicious blond and one small mistake for things to turn deadly.

Review:

This book I was looking forward too because second season of True Blood was my favorite season so far. Especially Sookie's time in Dallas. That being said I knew there would be some differences but just didn't know how much til I started to read and let me say this is book has to be my favorite so far.

I loved the inclusion of other supernaturals in this book but they are more hidden where as the vampires are all about out in the open. I wish they could have incorporated more of the side characters in this book into the series would have made for some interesting TV.

And can I say I just love how in the books Eric and Sookie's relationship is blossoming more, If you haven't guessed by now but I am all for Team Eric. How can you not love that hot viking vampire.

That being said excellent continuation of this series and on I go to book 3 again a must read for True Blood Fans out there.

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 339 KB

Print Length: 258 pages

Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0441010512

Publisher: Ace (April 29, 2003)

Sold by: Penguin Publishing

Language: English

ASIN: B000O76OOK

Source: Own Copy

Amazon

Goodreads Summary:

Things between cocktail waitress Sookie and her vampire boyfriend Bill seem to be going excellently (apart from the small matter of him being undead) until he leaves town for a while. A long while. Bill's sinister boss Eric has an idea of where to find him, whisking her off to Jackson, Mississippi to mingle with the under-underworld at Club Dead. When she finally catches up with the errant vampire, he is in big trouble and caught in an act of serious betrayal. This raises serious doubts as to whether she should save him or start sharpening a few stakes of her own .

Review:

Okay I know I said book 2 was my favorite well I changed my mind book 3 is now my favorite. I seen some similarities the show used but all in all it was almost a completely different story. One thing I gotta say if I didn't love Eric before I sure do now this book sealed it for me.

There is a couple scenes in this book I wished they would have included in the show, both revolved around Sookie and Eric. I won't say what they were because if you haven't read the books I don't want to give them away but lets just say my heart melted.

Bill you didn't see much of in this book and when he did , he came across as indifferent and I'm not sure what to think other than I hope at some point he redeems himself for me. I do like Bill.

A few final thoughts, one being,It is so hard not to compare the books with the show. But as much as I love Alan Ball's vision of these books, I am finding myself loving the books more.

Second,As most of you know I wasn't a big fan of first person views until just recently and I am certainly glad this is written that way though I wouldn't mind other characters POV's once in awhile.

One final thought,I absolutely love the way Charlaine writes, and she has a new fan who is eager to just keep on reading this series til she ends it. Now I am off to read the 4th book Dead to the World which from what I'm hearing is the best book out of the bunch.

Overall Rating: