November Read Part 2

02. Swallowing Darkness (Meredith Gentry 7) by Laurell K. Hamilton Rating:B+

"Merry Gentry is not your average private investigator. Half human, half faerie, she's caught in a struggle that threatens not only her life, but the lives of those she desires and holds dear. Her very existence and her rightful place on the throne of Faerie have long depended on her ability to produce an heir - and now, after many failed attempts, the services of her royal guards have found her pregnant...
It is a triumphant moment, but revelation follows revelation: for Merry carries two babies, and she knows thay they have more than one father...And of course, there are those of her own flesh and blood who want Merry dead, but she is a fighter and wields a wild magic. And this is her world, where the magical and the mortal intertwine, where folklore, fantasy and erotically charged adventure collide..."

LKH pretty much writes her characters as a Mary Sue but I kind of liked it. This was way better than Blood Noir, at least the story went somewhere. There were a lot of plot that were closed so it could end here but there seems to be 3 more books coming so I gather there would be more. A new arc perhaps. A quick and easy read if you are a fan.

03. Birthright by Nora Roberts Rating:B+

" When five-thousand-year-old human bones are found at a construction site in the small town of Woodsboro, the news draws archaeologist Callie Dunbrook out of her sabbatical and into a whirlwind of adventure, danger, and romance. While overseeing the dig, she must try to make sense of a cloud of death and misfortune that hangs over the project - fuelling rumours that the site is cursed. She must cope with the presence of her irritating - but irresistible - ex-husband, Jake. Furthermore, when a stranger claims to know a secret about her privileged Boston childhood, she is forced to question her own past as well... A rich, thrilling, suspenseful tale from a 'storyteller of immeasurable diversity and talent' (Publishers Weekly), Birthright follows an inspiring heroine, an intriguing hero, and a cast of fascinating characters whose intertwined lives remind us that there is much more going on under the surface than meets the eye."

I really liked how interesting the book was, the issues raised as well as the development of the relationship between the characters is just what made me really like Roberts in the first place. And the protagonists is an archaeologist, way cool.

04. Halfway to the Grave (Night Huntress 1) by Jeaniene Frost Rating:B+

"Half-vampire Catherine Crawfield is going after the undead with a vengeance, hoping that one of these deadbeats is her father—the one responsible for ruining her mother's life. Then she's captured by Bones, a vampire bounty hunter, and is forced into an unholy partnership.
In exchange for finding her father, Cat agrees to train with the sexy night stalker until her battle reflexes are as sharp as his fangs. She's amazed she doesn't end up as his dinner—are there actually good vampires? Pretty soon Bones will have her convinced that being half-dead doesn't have to be all bad. But before she can enjoy her newfound status as kick-ass demon hunter, Cat and Bones are pursued by a group of killers. Now Cat will have to choose a side . . . and Bones is turning out to be as tempting as any man with a heartbeat."

The first of the Night Huntress Novels, I thought it was a very good read. Interesting characters and the promise of an exciting new series. Definitely reading the next books.

05. One Foot in the Grave(Night Huntress 2) by Jeaniene Frost Rating:A

"You can run from the grave, but you can't hide . . .
Half-vampire Cat Crawfield is now Special Agent Cat Crawfield, working for the government to rid the world of the rogue undead. She's still using everything Bones, her sexy and dangerous ex, taught her, but when Cat is targeted for assassination, the only man who can help her is the vampire she left behind.
Being around him awakens all her emotions, from the adrenaline kick of slaying vamps side by side to the reckless passion that consumed them. But a price on her head—wanted: dead or half-alive—means her survival depends on teaming up with Bones. And no matter how hard she tries to keep things professional between them, she'll find that desire lasts forever . . . and that Bones won't let her get away again."

I thought this second book was better than the first. Adding a whole new set of characters, we get to see more of the relationship between Bones and Cat and how Cat developes as the protagonist of the book, with evil father and bitter mother and all.

06. Dead Girls Are Easy (Nicki Stynx #1) by Terri Garey Rating:B-

"There's something about almost dying that makes a girl rethink her priorities. Take Nicki Styx—she was strictly goth and vintage, until a brush with the afterlife leaves her with the ability to see dead people.
Before you can say boo, Atlanta's ghosts are knocking at Nicki's door. Now her days consist of reluctantly cleaning up messes left by the dearly departed, leading ghouls to the Light . . . and one-on-one anatomy lessons with Dr. Joe Bascombe, the dreamy surgeon who saved her life. All this catering to the deceased is a real drag, especially for a girl who'd rather be playing hanky-panky with her hunky new boyfriend . . . who's beginning to think she's totally nuts.
But things get even more complicated when a friend foolishly sells her soul to the devil, and Nicki's new gift lands her in some deep voodoo.
As it turns out for Nicki Styx, death was just the beginning."

This was an ok read for me, the characters were interesting enough. And the jamaican vodoo practices were cool. I think it's just the whole twin thing that didn't go well with me. WOuld probably read the next book just to see what happens

07. Single White Vampire (Argeneau Vampires #3)  by Lynsay Sands Rating:A

"SWM—"Lucern." Successful biographer of family, books recently categorized as "paranormal romances." Something of a recluse. Hates crowds, aggressive women. Doesn't like sunbathing, garlicky dinners or religious symbols. Likes old-fashioned values; spicy Mexican dishes; warm, nice-smelling necks; and plump red lips. Stronger than ten men and can vanish in the blink of an eye. Currently unaware he's seeking a woman to share eternity.
SWF—"Kate C. Leever." Newest editor of Romance at Roundhouse Publishing. Perky, fun. Has recently discovered a legacy author just dying to be broken out. In fact, her career could take off from it. (The tall, dark, handsome writer just needs to be taken to several romance conventions and introduced to his fans . . . and stopped from acting so strange in public.) Dislikes "difficult, rude, obnoxious, pig-headed writers." Currently unaware she's met the man of her wildest dreams."

I LOVE Lynsay Sands, her Rgeneau series just keeps me coming back for more. I thought this was a funny read and the whole convention thing was really interesting.

08. Ill Wind (Weather Wardern #1) by Rachel Caine Rating:B

"Joanne Baldwin is a Weather Warden. Usually, all it takes is a wave of her hand to tame the most violent weather. But now, she's trying to outrun another kind of storm: accusations of corruption and murder. So, she's resorting to the very human tactic of running for her life...
Her only hope is Lewis, the most powerful warden known. Unfortunately, he's stolen not one but three bottles of Djinn-making him the most wanted man on earth. Still, she's racing hard to find him-before the bad weather closes in fast..."

While I was waiting for the next Lynsay Sands from bookmooch, I started on the weather warden series since i got the first 4 books already. There's a whole new system of weather control with wardens of all 4 elements and Joanne is sucked into the politics and consequences of it. Honestly I didn't think it would be that serious a book but it was serious, gritty and fast-paced. Pretty nice beginning to a series.

 

09. Heat Stroke (Weather Wardern #2) by Rachel Caine Rating:B

"Mistaken for a murderer, Weather Warden Joanne Baldwin is hunted down and killed by her colleagues. Reborn as a Djinn, she senses something sinister entering earth's atmosphere-something that makes tomorrow's forecast look deadly."

Second in the weather warden series, this book continues in with it's tragic undertones. It made me keep wanting more but at the same time dreading what could happen next. Warning though, cliff hanger in the end. It made me pick up book 3 right away :)

November Reading List - Part 1

Yay !! I've finished 100 books this year with a month to spare!! Let's see how far I go on December !!

Good reading this month too. I still have so much books to read though! Barely made a dent in my TBR pile and books are piling up again!! I haven't even finished with twilight yet.

03. Jasmine Moon Murder ( Tea Shop Mysteries 5) by Laura Childs Rating: B

"Indigo Tea Shop owner Theodosia Browning is catering a Charleston benefit, a "Ghost Crawl" through Jasmine Cemetery. But the organizer, Dr. Davis, won't get to enjoy the festivities: during the Crawl's theatrical number, he drops dead. It looks like foul play-but how could such an upstanding citizen have enemies?
With a nose for trouble, Theodosia starts stirring things up with her own investigation to find the do-badder. But before long, chasing down the culprit gets her in hot water up to her neck."

book 5 in Laura Childs Tea shop mysteries takes us back to the Indigo Tea shop with Theodosia and the gang. I always love their camaraderie and team dynamics. Honestly, I don't know if it was just me but Jory kind of came out very needy here. Relationship based on gratitude and all that. I don't really see any developement in their relationship and we're well in book 5 already. Where's the passion hehe in a genteel kind of way. Come on, Theodosia shows more affection to Earl Grey than Jory. The book was a good read though.  That connection came out of nowhere. I look forward to the next book in the series.

02. Chamomile Mourning ( Tea Shop Mysteries 6) by Laura Childs Rating B

"At Charleston's Spoleto festival, tea shop owner Theodosia Browning is far from festive when the Poet's Tea is forced indoors by rain. But rain proves to be the least of her problems after a local auction house owner plummets from a balcony to his death-and it looks like someone helped him over the edge.
With a full kettle of suspects, Theodosia investigates and uncovers a criminal enterprise of art forgery, fraud--and murder--that leads her into the murky swamps of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Now, she's hot on the heels of a criminal who plans on showing her just how dangerous it is to stick her sensitive nose where it doesn't belong."

I have to admit that I'm starting to get an idea of how Childs chooses her killer, it's the least likely new character that ha sabsolutely no connection to the deceased or has no apparant motive. Like in this book, I kinda guessed who was the murderer just not the who. The confrontation was more exciting than normal though but a cozy is a cozy. We say goodbye to Jory here. I know he's all happy about his opportunity and all that but to suddenly turn insensitive when he supposedly is in tune with Theodosia in the other books that it's too comfortable.

01. Blood Orange Brewing ( Tea Shop Mysteries 7) by Laura Childs B-

"Social darling Delaine Dish is throwing a lavish Candlelight Concert to raise funds to restore a run-down Victorian home-and Theodosia Browning is more than happy to help out with tea and tasty treats from the Indigo Tea Shop.
Unfortunately, the unveiling of Theo's opulent spread proves to be far from grand after retired CEO and beloved politico Duke Wilkes falls to the floor with a jagged piece of metal protruding from his neck. When the Widow Wilkes begs Theo to apply her sleuthing skills, she can't refuse. But her investigation opens up a simmering pot of shady politics and personal payback, and Theo soon finds herself in a situation stickier than any jam she's ever served."

Wow the crime here was as far and you can get, poor birds. I like how Childs incorporated an issue here but at the same time I thought that the mystery wasn't as thought out as it should be. Theodosia spents 3/4 of the books going nowhere and then when the incident with Earl Grey came about, which I didn't get why there was a need for that to happen, barrels off foolishly. Delaine is still annoying as ever. We are also introduced to a new love interest for Theodosia but I see the same pattern developing as with Jory. I hope Childs would spend some time to develope tehir relationship too

01. Dragonwell Dead ( Tea Shop Mysteries 8) by Laura Childs rating B+

"It's springtime in Charleston and just about every species of South Carolina's flora is in full and glorious bloom at the Spring Plantation Ramble. Once a year, the upper crust open their sprawling gardens to the public, the site of flower shows, rare plant auctions, and a contagious spring fever. Although Theodosia Browning barely knows a Phalinopsis from a Bog Rose, she still enjoys the Ramble, especially since she can pour tea and promote her Indigo Tea Shop-and her latest concoction, Dragonwell Sweet Tea."

I admit that I did like this better than the previous one, this one came out smoother. The murder and the consequencial events that happened were very sad. I really felt for the poor widow. The motive came out more plausible despite all the other BIG suspect signs pointed to the other characters. Sadly there's not so much mention of Parker and Theodosia this time, except for the whole canoe thing. After reading this book, I eagerly await the next book in the series.

October Reading List

14. Storm Front ( Dresden Files #1) by Jim Bitcher Rating: B+

The first of the Dresden Files series, I've watched teh tv series before I started reading the books actually but it's a good thing I watched it a year ago so I pretty much don't remember a lot of it.  But because Dresden is written in a first person point of view, I keep hearing Paul Blackthorne's voice narrating in the back of my head. Too bad they cancelled the show, it has so much potential

Meet Harry Dresden, Wizard for Hire. He finds lost items, conducts paranormal investigations, does consulting work, gives advice and charges reasonable rates. 

 

13. A Quick Bite (Argeneau Vampires #1 ) by Lynsay Sands Rating: B+

Technically the first book in the Argenau Vampires series if you go by Sands reading order, I thought this was a unique way of explaining the whole vampire need for blood thing. I did enjoy the book and look forward to the other books in the series. The intereaction of the Argenau family was quite fun. And the whole fainting thing was very funny. I love Thomas and the spiderman pajamas!!

"Lissianna has been spending her centuries pining for Mr. Right, not just a quick snack, and this sexy guy she finds in her bed looks like he might be a candidate. But there's another, more pressing issue: her tendency to faint at the sight of blood ... an especially annoying quirk for a vampire. Of course it doesn't hurt that this man has a delicious-looking neck. What kind of cold-blooded vampire woman could resist a bite of that?
Dr. Gregory Hewitt recovers from the shock of waking up in a stranger's bedroom pretty quickly -- once he sees a gorgeous woman about to treat him to a wild night of passion. But is it possible for the good doctor to find true love with a vampire vixen, or will he be just a good meal? That's a question Dr. Greg might be willing to sink his teeth into ... if he can just get Lissianna to bite."

12.High Stakes (Vegas Vampires #1 ) by Erin McCarthy Rating: B

this was a fun quick read.

"He's a bloodsucking freak of nature. But, unlike other politicians, Ethan Carrick is actually a nice guy. Not to mention a very hot, wealthy, casino-owning vampire. It's an election year for vampires, which means he'll first have to escape his opponent's hit men. Then he'll have to find a suitable First Lady, preferably here in Vegas.
Brittany Baldizzi fits the bill. She's smart, pretty- and sweeter than a glass of diabetic O-Negative. But her protective sister Alexis steps in with a message for Ethan: Bite me. It's then that he realizes it's the sexy, no-nonsense Alexis who raises his stake. And as much as she denies it, Alexis wouldn't mind a romp in the coffin with him. But can a mere mortal, even one who risks her life for him, make a centuries-old, womanizing vampire feel something entirely new?" 

11. Bit the Jackpot (Vegas Vampires #2) by Erin McCarthy Rating: B+

enjoyed this one more than the first.

"Vampire Seamus Fox is supposed to be the campaign manager for a Vampire Nation presidential candidate. Instead, he finds himself running around Vegas keeping tabs on the candidate's wife and female entourage.
Seamus has had his fill of women: a disastrous and deadly love affair has haunted him for over two centuries. Talk about baggage. But suddenly he finds himself obsessed with a mysterious stripper who dances behind a screen. The sultry yet shy Cara Kim whets his appetite for more, but leave it to Seamus to fall fangs over feet for that rarest of Vegas attractions-a good girl."

10. Unshapely Things ( Connor Grey 01) by Mark Del Franco Rating: B+

Was a surprisingly good read, Wakey lent me her copy and after finishing it, wanted to read the next book in the series.

"In the alleys of the decrepit Boston neighborhood known as the Weird, fairy prostitutes are turning up dead. The crime scenes show signs of residual magic, but the Guild, which polices the fey, has more "important" crimes to investigate and dumps the case on human law enforcement.
Boston police call in Connor Grey, a druid and former hotshot Guild investigator-whose magical abilities were crippled after a run-in with a radical environmentalist elf. As Connor battles red tape and his own shortcomings, he realizes that the murders are not random, but part of an ancient magical ritual. And if Connor can't figure out the killer's M.O., the culmination of the spell might just bring about a worldwide cataclysm."

09. Love Bites (Argeneau Vampires #2 ) by Lynsay Sands Rating: B+

I enjoyed this as much as the first plot but I thought this had more going on plotwise, it did introduce some new sides of the family that wasnt really elaborated in the first

"Etienne Argeneau's three hundred years of bachelorhood were at an end. Either that, or he'd be forever alone. He could only "turn" one human in his lifetime, and most of his kind reserved that power for creating a life mate. If he turned the wrong woman . . . But what choice did he have? He had to save Rachel Garrett. He didn't know her very well, but the beautiful coroner had saved his life. To save hers he would make her immortal."

08. Bled Dry (Vegas Vampires #3) by Erin McCarthy Rating: B-

Out of the three, I didn't enjoy this as much, and was actually tempted to skip parts because I didn't feel anything for the heroine. I had to push myself to read the book, the end was not so bad but the first half was a bit trying for me

"Hooking up with a vampire has its risks-but getting pregnant usually isn't one of them. Tell that to Brittany Baldizzi, who finds herself in the family way with no father in sight. After their one night of passion, vampire Corbin Jean Michel disappeared off the face of the earth-or at least off the Vegas strip.
Corbin is a vampire with a cause, secretly trying to find a cure for his condition. But when he finds out Brittany is pregnant with his child, Corbin can't keep his paternal instincts from trumping his bloodsucking ones. Even when showing his hand could cost him the woman he can't help but love."

07. Harvest of Bones (Chintz and China Mysteries 4) by Yasmine Galenorn Rating: A

Love love Yasmine Galenorn, I love all the characters and went through this one pretty quickly

"It's harvest time in Chiqetaw, Washington; Emerald O'Brien's favorite season. But this year, nature yields a most supernatural bounty. When Em and her sweetie, Joe, stumble over a bramble-covered foundation that has remained hidden for fifty years in the lot next door, strange events begin to occur. The cat vanishes. Will o' the Wisps threaten to harm Emerald and her loved ones. And the ghost of a woman named Brigit and her beloved calico make themselves at home in the backyard. Now it's up to Em and her friends to delve into the past, reveal the secrets of the dead and lay them to rest as they ring in the autumn with a harvest of bones. "

06. Hex of a Wedding (Chintz and China Mysteries 5) by Yasmine Galenorn Rating: A

the last in the Chintz China series which is sad, but I loved the whole series!!

Emerald O'Brien is about to tie the knot with her fiance Joe, but one uninvited guest to their engagement party reminds her that some ties still need to be severed. Her ex-hubby Roy can't hold his liquor--or his temper--and after brawling with Joe, he threatens to ruin their wedding. When Joe is wounded from a gunshot the next day, Roy becomes the prime suspect. Emerald knows her ex has a mean streak a mile wide but doesn't believe he'd be capable of attempted murder. And when a sinister presence starts stalking her maid of honor, Em begins to worry that her marriage has been cursed before she's even walked down the aisle...

05. Shades of Earl Grey ( Tea Shop Mysteries 3) by Laura Childs Rating: B

honestly, i did enjoy the book after reading the first two a few months ago, going back to the Charleston and encountering all the characters again was so much fun. I did think that the story ended rather abruptly, kind of like build up..build up...end

"An antique wedding ring mysteriously disappears from the hand of a dying bridegroom.  Then a priceless sapphire necklace is plucked from its display at the Heritage Society.  Could there be a very dangerous breed of cat burglar prowling the cobblestone pathways of Charleston's historic district?  With the Heritage Society under fire and their extravaganza Treasures Show fast approaching, Theodosia is called upon to match wits with a very slippery opponent."

04. English Tea Breakfast ( Tea Shop Mysteries 4) by Laura Childs Rating: B+

this was better than the previous one, imho all in all. The mystery kind of left you guessing but I like how so many things are still going on, with the fashion show and tv appearance, Delaine is becoming more dramatical as time goes on though, Every story needs it antagonist though :)

Dawn is about to break at South Carolina's Halliehurst Beach, and the members of Charleston's Sea Turtle Protection League are taking part in the annual "turtle crawl."  As they help hundreds of tiny green loggerheads tumble safely into the surf, the dedicated volunteers congratulate themselves with a well-earned shore breakfast.  But as the tea steeps and the gumbo simmers, a strange mass is spotted floating off-shore.  Donning mask and swim fins, Theodosia paddles out to investigate, only to discover a dead body bobbing in the waves.  The hapless victim turns out to be Harper Fisk, a prominent Charleston art dealer and passionate collector of Civil War antiquities.  Rumors of sunken treasure and gold bullion have abounded, yet nothing has ever been found near Halliehurst Beach.  But now Theodosia begins to wonder--did Harper Fisk finally stumble upon something?  And was he killed because of it?

 

Very cool! 4 more books and I've accomplished my goal for this year!! I quite enjoyed all the books I've read this month.

Currently reading: Jasmine Moon Murder (Tea Shop Mysteries 4) by Laura Childs and Swallowing Darkness by Laurell K. Hamilton

September Reading

23. Sunshine by Robin Mckinley A
22. Candy Apple Dead (Candy Shop Myster 1) by Sammi Carter B-
21. Kitty and the Midnight Hour (Kitty Norville 1) by Carrie Vaughn B
20. Ghost of a Chance by Kate Marsh B
19. Magic Lost, Trouble Found by Lisa Shearin B
18. Cooking Up Murder by Miranda Bliss C
17. Sympathy for the Devil (Madeline Bean Mysteries 1)  by Jerrilyn Farmer B+
16. Legend of the Jade Dragon (Chintz and China Mysteries 2) by Yasmine Galenorn B+
15. Murder Under a Mystic Moon  (Chintz and China Mysteries 3) by Yasmine Galenorn B+

Can't believe the month has gone by so quickly, didn't even get to review one book :( Highlights for this month is Sunshine by Robin Mckinley (too bad she isn't making a sequel-crosses fingers) and the Chintz and China Series. My bookmoocher friend Carol is sendin gme the 4th and I'll send her the 5th to finish the series currently published can't wait

Reading : Storm Front (book) by Jim Buther and A Quick Bite by Linsay Sands (ebook)

August Reading List

45. Just Murdered (Dead End Job Myteries 4) by Elaine Viets rating:B
44. Murder Unleased (Dead End Job Myteries 5) by Elaine Viets rating:C+
43. Undead and Unwed (Queen Betsy 1) by Mary Janice Davidson rating:A
42. Undead and Unemployed　(Queen Betsy 2) by Mary Janice Davidson rating:B+
41. Undead and Unappreciated　(Queen Betsy 3) by Mary Janice Davidson rating:B+
40. Undead and Unreturnable　(Queen Betsy 4) by Mary Janice Davidson
rating:B39. Undead novellas (Queen Betsy) by Mary Janice Davidson
38 Undead and Unpopular (Queen Betsy 5) by Mary Janice Davidson rating:B-
37. Undead and Uneasy (Queen Betsy 6) by Mary Janice Davidson rating:A
36. Undead and Unworthy  (Queen Betsy 7) by Mary Janice Davidson rating:B
35. Dead End Dating (Dead End Dating 1) by Kimberly Raye rating:B
34. Dead and Datelss (Dead End Dating 2) by Kimberly Raye rating:C+
33. Sleeping With the Fishes (Fred the Mermaid 1) by Mary Janice Davidson
rating:B
32. Witch Way to Murder (Ophelia and Abby 1) by Shirley Daamsgard rating:B+
31. The Ghost and the Dead Deb (Haunted Bookshop Mystery 2) by Alice Kimberly rating:A
30. The Ghost and the Dead Man's Library  (Haunted Bookshop Mystery 3) by Alice Kimberly rating:A
29 The Ghost and the Femme Fatale  (Haunted Bookshop Mystery 4) by Alice Kimberly rating:A
28: High Heels Are Murder (Josie Marcus, Mystery Shopper 2) by Elaine Viets rating:B+
27. Carpe Demon: Adventures of a Demon-hunting Soccer Mom (Demon-hunting Soccer Mom 1) by Julie Kenner rating:B+
26. Bitten and Smitten (Immortality Bites Series 1) by Michelle Rowen rating:B
25. Ghost of a Chance (Chintz'n China Series 1) by Yasmine Galenorn rating:B+
24. The Bride Finder by Susan Carroll rating:B

Currently Reading: Dead and Loving It by Mary Janice Davidson

AUgust Reads : 43-36 Queen Betsy Series

I've been meaning to read teh Queen Betsy series ever since I feel in love with MaryJanice Davidson's way of writing in her Wyndam Werewolves Series. I prefer reading books that have a bunch out in the series so I don't have to wait so lon gin anticipation of the next one as well as not forget what happened in the previous books. The new Queen Betsy just came out last month actually and I was able to mooch some of the books in the series so I decided to start on that

43. Undead and Unwed (Queen Betsy 1) by Mary Janice Davidson

Turning 30 was one of the worst day of Betsy's life and it's not done yet. After losing her job, she gets killed in a car accident, only to wake up in the morgue and find out that she couldn't die. Turns out she's suppose to be this prophesied vampire queen, and there's a bunch of people trying to convince her to help them overthrow the evil and sadistic ruler of the vampires.

I liked this book and the promise of the series better than WW. Betsy is funny although a bit of an airhead but she didn't really want the job in the first place so at least she knows what she wants haha The beginning scenes where she was trying to make sure she stayed dead was so funny. And of course when she couldn't do that and went home to reassess everthing, gets to charge over to the evil stepmother Ant's house to demand for her shoes and scream at her for dressing her with her secondhand shoes hahaha  I think all the supporting characters, Eric, Tina, Marc and Jessica are such a great bunch of characters. I love the interaction.And when Eric tempted her to help their cost with shoes. Priceless. Rating: A

42. Undead and Unemployed　(Queen Betsy 2) by Mary Janice Davidson

Betsy's back and just being undead doesn't really mean she doesn't have bills to pay. Never mind that she's queen of the vampires, she can't just depend on her too rich friend and her king (who tricked her into being queen and into gaining the kingship in Betsy's opinion) who accumalted riches on his long undead life. She lands her dream job, working at Macy's shoe department. But all is not well in Betsy land, there's a vampire killer on the loose and the reluctant queen has no choice but to track this killer down.

The second book welcomes us back to the continuing adventures of Betsy and pals. I found this book really funny and a good sequel to the first book. The confrontation with killers or the vigilantes was really funny. I did kind of have my suspicion of who the headmaster was that part wasn't really much of a surprise. The part of seeing ghosts and the little girl with the mother was a good party of the story in my opinion. Sweet and Funny Rating: B+

41. Undead and Unappreciated　(Queen Betsy 3) by Mary Janice Davidson

Book three of the Queen Betsy Series opens with the devil inhabiting a body of a human, having a baby and leaving due to all the hassles of babies. Turns out that the body the devil inhabited was the Ant, the evil stepmother and Betsy's apathetic dad drops the bomb that Betsy has a half sister somewhere. Even more is that this sister was prophesied in the Book of the Dead as the daugther of the Devil who will control the world. O-K  So Betsy goes in search of her half-sister and guess who she was, a goody goody raised by a priest, teaches sunday Laurie. But don't get her mad though or you're dust. Add to that, the Ant's pregnant! Horrors! And let's no forget the fiend in the basement who knits!

Book three starts adding new characters with the appearance of the half-sister. Betsy is still in denial about loving Sinclair so is insanely jealous when Sinclair starts paying attention to Laura. She gets pissed off about all the secrets that concern her "Queenship" and so locks herself in her room to read the Book of the Dead. Problem is the more she read, the evil she got and thus ended up going on a rampage attacking friends and family. I did still the book but I didn't believe that it was as strong or as funny as the previous two books. Some parts, Betsy started annoying me, the fight scene with Laura's light saber hellfire sword was cool though and Betsy crying "you knew! how could you not tell me!" And in the end, she and SInclair finally admitted how they felt to each other so it was all good. Rating: B+

40. Undead and Unreturnable　(Queen Betsy 4) by Mary Janice Davidson
There's a serial killer loose in the city who is attacking females fitting Betsy's profile. The good detective Nick, warns Betsy of course and in turn asks Jessica out on a date. Can we say a love life for Jessica. As for Betsy and Sinclair, Betsy unintentionally blurts out a secret whe's been figuring out how to tell Sinclair and causes Sinclair to withdraw from her. The ghost of the one of the serial killer's victim is haunting her now to hurry up and catch the killer.

This next book in the Queen Betsy series was ok for me, I like Baby Jon, Betsy's new halfbrother who only Betsy can calm. The whole serial killer angle ended pretty abruptly for me with Laura going all crazy, giving an glimpse of devil-daugther. Marjorie the vampire librarian and Jon of the Vampire Killer squad was pretty good supporting characters in the book. Rating: B

39. Undead novellas (Queen Betsy) by Mary Janice Davidson

Before I continue with the other books, I grouped the novellas into one listing so here they are:
First off is the story of Andrea and Garrett, Andrea was a vampire who while sleeping was unearth by who else but Daniel. the guy she had been pining over in college before she died. Learnign about the defeat of Nostro the big bad ex-ruler, she was prepared for whatever happens when she pays her respects to the new queen. Daniel who isn't about to let this girl he's got a shine on be killed queen or not, decided to join her and be her distraction. I think this is after book two since this happened when Betsy still hated Sinclair.

Second is the story of Antonia and George the fiend. Antonia, is the oracle of the Wyndam Werewolves who could not turn into a wolf.  Becuase of her situation even the clan are wary of her and she feels like an outcast even in her own family and in her causes her to be bitter and angry all the time. She gets one of her visions which tell her to go to Betsy's place to help the queen. Who would have guessed that she would find the love of her life in George. This novella is set after Queen Betsy 3.

Third in the novellas is BITING IN PLAIN SIGHT the story of Dr. Sophie Tourneau, who is happy with her life as the veterinarian of the a small town, until one day she hears about a vampire serial killer on the loose breaking girl's hearts causing the girls to kill themselves. She sets off to inform the queen about this situation and Liam, local farmboy who has been crushing on the good Doctor for the better part of his adulthood, tags along. Special mention to LIam lamenting about all his animals being of perfect health because he had no excuse to visit the vet was so cute. This should be around 4.5

Out of all three I liked Biting in Plain Sight the best. I do recommend reading the novellas because it could become confusing when these characters show up in the book without knowing how they got into the story, especially the George/Antonia story.

38. Undead and Unpopular (Queen Betsy 5) by Mary Janice Davidson
It's Betsy's 31 birthday and her 1 year anniversary as a vampire. So amidst planning her non-party and her wedding, she decided to give up blood. But not only does she have to deal with Eric not showing a least bit of interest in the wedding plans, but the European entourage of vampires have come to pay homage. These are old powerful vampires who does not believe that Betsy can be the Queen. Sophie and Liam returns to ask permission for Sophie to turn Liam into a vampire. And then Sophie discovers that one of the entourage was the vampire that kileld her and was gunning for his head. And to top it all off, Jessica tells Betsy that she has myeloma, or blood cancer. It's one thing after another. What's a vampire Queen to do.

The book is still very funny but my interest in the series is so so at the moment. The book had primise and it was shaping to be one but the ending kind of just fell a little flat for me. WIth the ending, I gather we won't be seeing much of Dr Sophie and Liam anytime soon. Also I kind of liked the character or Alonzo too so we'll never really know what kind of person he really is now. The whole not drinking thing was kind of stupid though. You would think that betsy has been a vampire for a bit now so she should stop being so ditzy. I didn't really get the zombie part though. What's the point? Rating B-

37. Undead and Uneasy (Queen Betsy 6) by Mary Janice Davidson
At long last, the wedding is almsot here but before that happens it seems the bride and groom are constantly fighting about the details and then the groom suddenly disappears. Not only that but Betsy's dad and the Ant suddenly dies leaving Betsy a new mommy to half brother baby jon. With worrying about Jessica in the hospital undergoing treatment for her cancer, and all the other residents of Casa Betsy MIA, what's a bride to do.

First off, I don't get how Sinclair can be so disdainful of the wedding. In one of the previous books he reiterates that they were getting married because it means something to Betsy, so why can't he at least tolerate it. He doesn't have to join in every planning but at least show some attention not just snarking about everydetail. The frist half of the book was a bit dragging for me but I liked this book. Never could really guess about the ring and Marjorie though. And super power Betsy, at least she's starting to see this Queen gig as something serious. And the Ant is gone " Ding dong the witch is dead!" I love how baby Jon had more appearance in the book too And the Wyndam Werewolves makes an appearance. Brawl for all can we say. Rating: A

36. Undead and Unworthy  (Queen Betsy 7) by Mary Janice Davidson
Newlywed Betsy is drifting in wedded bliss when all hell breaks loose. Guess who's haunting her! Seems the Ant has unfinished business and is now staying until its settled. And not only that but ex-fiend Garett formerly known as George started feeding the other fiends and kind of woke them up. Now they are all blaming Betsy and gunning for her.

MJD mentions in the book that this is part of a new 3 parter and she is taking the books to a whole new level. After reading the book, I haev to agree. This book is more serious in that there's a tragedy and it's darker unlike her previous fluffy books. The book didn't make me go wow but I still would read the next book though just to see where she will go with the plot. Detective Nick really really annoyed me though. He's become this whiney bigot. He hates vampires but is not above using them. Ugh And I liked him in the previous books too. I'm seeing a Richard pattern here. I wish baby Jon was part of the plot though, Didn't really see him in the novel.  Rating : B

August Reads: 44. Murder Unleashed ( A Dead-End Job Mystery) by Elaine Viets

Book 5 in the Dead-End Job Mysteries

Helen's new Dead end job is at a pet store that caters to the rich and the extravagant.  Pet groomers that needs an appointment, dog cuisine that's more expensive than the food in a normal person's fridge are just one of the examples of services that the Pampered Pet Boutique offers. While delivering one of these pooches to her owner, Helen discovers the naked dead body near the pool, stabbed by 10-inch grooming scissors. Panicking, Helen runs and erases evidence at the scene. On the same day, one of the most famouse clients, a labrapoodle is kidnapped by one of the dueling owners of the dog. Also a hurricane is reported to be heading straight to South Florida and people are rushing to stock up and fortify their houses. With the hurricane coming as well as being suspected of both crimes, Helen must try to find the killer and the dog under the onslaught of this disastrous wedding.

Well, a lot of things did happen in the story and the ending was kind of good,where that it was ended well in my opinion but from the time Helen discovers the murdered Tammie to finding the killer, Helen just seemed to become more and more paranoid of being discovered by her ex and kept making stupid mistakes. And she goes all the way to ask for advice but never listens to me. This book kind of left me disappointed if I want to be honest. The premise was good and the story wasn't bad but I just didn't like Helen in the book. I know it was really painful to be betrayed by her ex and by telling Phil her story made her a little more free from her husband's hold. Kudos to her on that. I've been thinking about it but when she was in court with her husband, didn't she have all the money? why did she end up with the stupid lawyer and her husband gets a shark . It just never made sense to me. Couldn't she have filed in another court,s ue her husband or something. Sooner or later she has to face her husband, she can't really continue living like that . I'm getting frustrated. I would still like to read the other 3 books but I think I'll just wait until teh mooch is available. C+

Currently reading: Undead and Unwed by MaryJanice Davidson

August Reads: 45. Just Murdered ( A Dead-End Job Mystery) by Elaine Viets

I figured while I'm still on a roll and fresh from reading the book, might as well write about it.

Book 4 of the Dead end job mysteries.

The latest dead end job Helen has is working in a bridal shop. You would imagine it would be full of smiles and joy but not in Fort Lauderdale. The bridal shop is set to tailor the wedding of the daughter one of the biggest names in the city. The mother is cold manipulative woman who could care less about her daughter, a mousy girl who has secrets of her own. So when Kiki, the mother is found dead on the wedding day, suffocated by the bride's wedding gown. Helen has the hard job of narrowing down the suspects of people who all have motive of killing Kiki. From her ex-husband who she was milking money from with all the wedding expenses, to the boy-toy chauffeur who she was supposed to leave a million on her will, to the daughter, the actor son-in-all, all the way to the theater people she endorses. When Helen's fingerprints are found in the wedding dress, she has to hurry and clear her name before the police figure out her secret as well as deal with Phil's country singer soon-to-be-ex wife who is staying at Phil's place.

I did enjoy this book and I loved the part when Helen was feeling overwhelmed by all the selfishness that goes on in the people that go to the braidal shop and one customer came in and completely turned everything around. I think the mystery was quite solid with a whole garden of evil kind of theme. It was sad and tragic and ironic all at the same time. Phil... man stupid move... never ever surprise a girlfriend like that. Brings back the whole Ross-Rachel episode for me. The only thing for me here is that the story of Helen's past is becomming so repetitive to me. Also, the romance between Phil and Helen seemed to just sprung out of nowhere, where now both parties are declaring love to each other, leaving me feeling like I missed a book or something. I'm sensing I'm close to brink with the series and might need to take a hiatus. B

Reading next: Murder Unleashed

July Reads Part 2

Here's the continuation of my July reads

48. Gunpowder Green (Tea Shop Mysteries) by Laura Childs

Book 2 of the Tea Shop Mysteries

Book 1 Death by Darjeering introduces us to our heroine Theodosia Browning and her staff in the Indigo Tea Cafe in the city of Charleston. Book 2 takes us the the annual boat race of the Yatch Club, a big awaited event in the whole town. Serving as caterers to the event. The idyllic day turns into tragedy when the antique gun used to announce the winner explodes killing one of the prominent men in the city.

Despite people saying it was an accident, Theodosia have a feeling that there was mroe than meets the eye, that the gun might have been rigged to explode!! So with her sidekicks and fellow tea shop employees, Theodosia sets out to solve this mystery.

First off, I adore the covers of her books. There were more recipes here than the previous book. Hmm I really should give these a try. I felt that this second book from childs was more solid than the first one in my opinion, although I kind of knew . But she mentions the killer in the first book so if you haven't read the first book don't read this before. Mystery was kind of predictable to me didn't really have an I knew it! moment but the tea descriptions were very nice and I liked how she is starting to write more of the characters.  B

 

47. Killer Heels (Molly Forrester Mysteries) by Sheryl J Andersen

Book 1 of the Molly Forrester Mysteries

Molly Forrester was just showing one of her best friends this ugly picture in her office when she discovers the dead body of her colleague, Teddy. Wanting to write more hard hitting news than her advice column in her magazine, she sets out to solve the mystery of Teddy's death and sell it to a serious magazine.

As Molly delves more and more into the life of Teddy along with galpals Cassady and Tricia, she discovers that there was way more to Teddy than what she hears in the office. And she keeps wanting the cute homicide cop suspecting her of the murder.

I didn't really plan on reading this book this soon, but someone wanted it so I had to read it before I sent it :) I found myself liking the book and wanting to read the next in the series. The detective doesn't really have any redeeming qualities that stand out so much so we'll see. I love Molly and her friends though. Most people would really feel the "Sex and the City" plus murder in the narrative and the interaction of the characters actually. I've mooched the 2nd book now so let's see how that goes. B

 

46. Curiosity Killed the Cat-Sitter (Dixie Hemingway Mystery) by Blaze Clement

Book 1 of the Dixie Hemingway, Petsitter Mysteries.

Dixie used to work as a deputy before her husband and little girl were hit in a car accident and she was let go from the department  when she went a little crazy. Now she works as a pet-sitter taking care of pets whose owners are away or not able to take their pet for a run.

One morning while she was visiting the house of a woman and her cat, she finds a body with his head taped to Ghost, the cat's water bowl. Turns out that this man is from one of the prominent families in the state and when she find the woman's body after a few days, Dixie is becoming under suspicion herself. Maybe it's the cop in her or her need to find out the truth about her client, but Dixie starts her own investigation to find the murderer.

It didn't really say how she was fired though but you can feel the overwhelming grief and pain from the character even a few years after the event. I imagine this kind of pain would be something that you can't really get over. There's an underlying sadness in the whole book actually that it read very melancholic to me, with her tragedy and the other people around her. I like the supporting characters though, the brother and his partner. The animals and their owners. I kind of knew who was the murderer in the first few chapters so  it did not really come out as a surprise when it was revealed( more liek what took you so long). I hope the mystery is better in the next book. I did like the book though and would still read the next one. B

 

Currently Reading : Just Murdered : A Dead-end Job mystery by Elain Viets

July Reads Part 1

I'm going nowhere with my one book comment so I think I'll combine it per month. I would blog per book when i have the time again :) July is still mostly cozy myteries for me so I think I will be in that genre for awhile, or unless I run out of books in that genre :)

53. The Last of the Red-Hot Vampires by Katie MacAlister

Fifth in MacAlister's Dark Ones Series.

Physicist, Portia Harding does not believe in anything that can not be explained through science and logic but then she accidentally summons a virtue and acquires the power of the weather. But first, she must take a test of to become a virtue to keep her new powers. She meets Theo North, a nephilim (half angel half human) who need her to get into "Heaven" . Everything is in topsy turvy with all the test taking and trying to escae a murder charge. 

I admit that this is the second time I attempted to read this book, the first 2-3 chapters of the book I keep wanting to put it down because Portia just iritated me. She sounded like one of those people who were so illogical with disbelief even if it's right in front of their eyes. Only after she started believing did it get interesting. In the end I did enjoy the book and some scenes were pretty funny too. But because of the beginning woudl just give this a C+

52. A Wedding to Die For: A Yellow Rose Mystery by Leann Sweeney

2nd in the Yellow Rose Mystery.

Becuase of the events that happened in book one, Abby is now practicing as a PI specializing on reuniting birth parents and their children. Her latest client is just getting married and asks Abby to look for her birth mother which she does not want her foster parents to find out.

During the wedding reception, someone kills the father-of-the-bride. And as Abby continues to search for Abby's birth mother( going all the way to Jamaica), she uncovers secrets and scandals she wasn't sure her client would want to know. With the sheriff, her boyfriend's jealous ex suspecting and even stonewalling her, she has to get to the bottom of this mystery before more people get killed, including her.

I thought it was a great second book and can't wait to read more adventure of Abby. I admit I really didn't know who the murderer was until the end so that was fun. B+

51. Shop TIl You Drop (Dead-End Job Mysteries) by Elaine Viets

Book 1 in the Dead End Job Mysteries

Helen Hawthorne is on the run from her two-timing ex-husband and ends up living in Fort Lauderdale South Florida. Who wants to pay half their income to their moocher of an ex-husband who she caught cheating on her with their next door neighbor. She smashes her ex-husband's prize car windows, with him naked still inside. This would come to haunt her when due to a bad lawyer, chauvanist judge and the lies of her ex's girlfriends, she ended up having to pay alimony.

Becuase of this circumstance, Helen has no choice but to work in these so-called Dead-end jobs in order to support herself and fly under the radar. This time she is working in a high-end clothing shop where she discovers her manages to be selling drugs as well as hiding many secrets of her own. When she ends, up dead. Helen must find out who murdered her to get the cop gunning for her off her back.

I heard great reviews from Elaine Viets in the Cozy ml so I was lucky enough to mooch some of her books. I actually read the 3rd book before I read this one but I still enjoyed reading this book. The mystery was at a nice pace with the introduction of the supporting characters rounding out a promise of a good series. B+

50. Dying To Call You (Dead-End Job Mysteries) by Elaine Viets

Book 3 of the Dead End Job Mysteries

Helen Hawthorne has found the dead end job of dead end jobs, telemarketing. Ok, maybe it's just me but being solicited ont he phone much less being the one who is soliciting is one of the worst jobs I can imagine, especially if you need to make a quota, which you always do.

Anyway, while making one of her calls, Helen is sure that she heard a murder taking place so notifies the police who in turn comes up with nothing. Helen sets out to prove that she really did hear a murder and gets involved in the the world of the rich and the bizarre.

This is the first book I've read of her Dead-End Job Mysteries, becuase I mistook this one as her first actually so I was a little spoiled in the identity of Phil the pothead  neighbor but at the same time it didn't really tell so much of the detail of the previous books except in passing which in turn helped me enjoy the first book too. The sister was a little over the top for me but the side stories like apartment 2C made the story even more interesting. I enjoyed this one too! Will try to get ahold of the rest of her series. B+

49. Dying In Style:: Josie Marcus, Mystery Shopper by Elaine Viets

Book 1 of the Josie Marcus, Mystery Shopper Mysteries

Josie Marcus' job is a mystery shopper. It's not actually glamorous as most people believe but it gives her the flexibility time to spend with her daughter. But it does amount to endless complaints of her mother of not getting a proper job.

One of her jobs is the exclusive store of local hero Danessa Celedine. Her designs were even worn by celebrities and she is now in talks of selling her shops for a lot of money. Thsi is where Josie and her company comes in. Assigned to check out the Danessa shops, Josie finds out to her horror that each shop was worse from the previous and gives a negative review. Incensed about the loss of a 50 million dollar contract. Danessa confronts Josie and threatens to sue with Josie standing her ground and fighting back.

Danessa is later found dead strangled with the snakeskin belt with Josie's fingerprints all over it. Danessa's live-in Russian lover was also killed on the same day leaving no other suspect but Josie. Josie has to clear her name before they can accuse her of the crime and lose her daughter in turn.

This is my first book from author Elaine Viets, an I found myself liking her writing. She does have a thing for writing her mothers being very old fashioned and judgemental of their daughter. I found myself liking and disliking her mother here, but I love the daughter. Her writing here is more gritty and based on reality though, a little touch of sadness too, imho. I think I like her Dead-end job msyteries more but would continue reading this series to see how she developes her characters.  B

June Reads

Here are some of the books I've read the past month in addition to the previous list. I would eventually (fingers crossed) get reviews on them out

54. The Sisters Grimm IV : Once Upon A Crime by Michael Buckley rating:B
55. Blue Blood: A Debutante Dropout Mystery (Debutante Dropout Mysteries 1 ) by Susan McBride rating: C+
56. Killer Hair: A Crime of Fashion (Crime of Fashion Mysteries) rating: A
57. Death By Darjeering ( Tea Shop Mysteries #1) by Laura Childs rating: B+
58. A Charmed Death (Bewitching Series #2) by Madelyn Alt rating: B+
59.Hex Marks The Spot (Bewitching Series #3) by Madelyn Alt rating: B+
60. Iron Kissed (Mercy Thompson 3) by Patricia Briggs rating: B
61. Blood Noir (Anita Blake 16) by Laurell K Hamilton rating: C-
62. Beyond A Highland Mist (Highland Series 1) by Karen Marie Moning rating: C+
63: Second Sight by Amanda Quick rating: B+
64: Mistletoe Murder (Lucy Stone Mysteries #1) by Leslie Meier rating: B
65: Dance Upon the Air (Sisters Island Trilogy #1) by Nora Roberts rating: B+
66: Heaven and Earth (Sisters Island Trilogy #2) by Nora Roberts rating: B-

94. Charlie Bone and the Blue Boa.

Book 3 of the Children of the Red King Series is Charlie Bone and the Blue Boa (UK)Charlie Bone and the Invisible Boy(US). I had to confirm that both books were the same before I could mooch them. Who knew that the title would be very different.

As I mentioned earlier, the parallels to Harry Potter is still bothering me, Charlie now has a wand and there's a snake in this one too that is loose int he academy, CoS anyone.

Anyway, this book is about Charlie and Emma finding an invisible boy, except his toe. They find out that the Bloors are hiding him, and the reasson didn't really make that much sense to me. There's a snake loose in the school that turns people invisible once it has coiled around you. With the boy's brother's help, the keeps hatches a plot to rescue him. But there's a new girl in town named Belle, a too beautiful mysterious girl that seems to get along really well with the Yewbeam sisters,warning bells everyone. And Uncle Paton disappears and comes back changed and full of hopelessness.

I liked book three better than book 2 by judge a little bit but could still need a bit more work. The thing I noticed with the series is that the characters aren't as well developed as I would hope it would be and the fluidity of the story is just not very smooth. Characters pop in and pop out and the confrontations end up too easy, in my opinion. I am starting to feel a little symphaty for Billy but he is still a contradiction to me. Also, they defeat their adversaries far too easily in my opinion which makes the ending kind of anticlimactic for me. I already have books 4-6 courtesy of my very very nice bookmooch buddy chris so I'll give them a go.

Rating C

95. Charlie Bone and the Time Twister

I was lucky enough to find the rest of the series on bookmooch and so I was able to continue reading Jenny Nimmo's Children of the Red King Series.

Second to the series is Charlie Bone and the Time Twister. Henry Yewbeam, Charlie's great great grandfather, mysteriously disappeared one night and we find out that he was tricked into using a time twister and was transported into the future to Charlie Bone's time. Amidst problems with his friends and avoiding a plot of his aunts to trick him to enter the painting of an evil sorceror named Skarpo, Charlie is having a hard time trying to hide Henry from Ezekiel Bloom ( the cousin who tricked Henry) and his spies, including BIlly Raven.

Honestly, book 2 was a bit of a letdown for me. At first I liked Henry but I really couldn't sympathize with his character when he was transported to Charlie's time. He just started to annoy me, and his actions that led to his capture was just plain foolish thinking. I can imagine being lost in time should be a bit daunting but he never listens. We also find out that Cook has a big role to play in the story too. And Uncle Paton is solid as a rock amidst bursting bulbs :) . I would probably read the next book hoping it's better than this o ne.

Rating C

96. Midnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo

I found this book at the public library and the cover made me pick it up (the US cover looks more mysterious actually). I was to later find out that it was the first book of the "Children of the Red King Series" The book starts of with the hero named Charlie Bone who lives with his mom, and 2 grandmothers, the nice one and the not so nice one, Grandma Bone. and his Uncle Paton, sister to Grandma Bone, who has 2 evil sisters too. We also find out that hsi father is presumed dead. Charlie discovers that he can go into pictures. And when this power came about, the evil Bone sisters sent him to Bloors Academy and here is where Charlie's past, present and future will unfold. I can't help comparing this book to the Harry Potter series which is unfair but there were similarities here that just made me think of HP, not to say that all basis of magical school-boy is HP mind you. The characters were pretty entertaining and it did kind of left me wanting to read teh rest of the series. All in all not a bad read. Rating B.

The rest of the series will follow

Books read 2008

Comments will come later but if I don't write them down I'll end up forgeting

1. Goddess of the Rose by PC Cast
2. Goddess of the Spring by PC Cast
3. Goddess of the Light by PC Cast
4. Goddess of the Sea by PC Cast
5. Midnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo
6. Charlie Bone and the Time Twister by Jenny Nimmo
7. Charlie Bone and the Blue Boa by Jenny Nimmo
8. Charlie Bone and the Castle of Mirrors by Jenny Nimmo
9. Charlie Bone and the HIdden King by Jenny Nimmo
10. Charlie Bone and the Wilderness Wolf by Jenny Nimmo
11. The Sisters Grimm: The Fairy-Tale Detectives by Michael Buckley
12. The Sisters Grimm: The Usual Suspects by Michael Buckley
13. The Sisters Grimm: The Problem Child by Michael Buckley
14. Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning
15. Bloodfever by Karen Marie Moning
16. Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye by Victoria Laurie
17. Better Read than Dead by Victoria Laurie
18. A Vision of Murder by Victoria Laurie
19. What's a Ghoul to Do? by Victoria Laurie
20. Crime Seen by Victoria Laurie
21. Demons are a Ghoul's Best Friend by Victoria Laurie
22. The Trouble with Magic by Madelyn Alt
23. The Remains of the Dead by Wendy Roberts
24. Love's Prisoner : Wyndham Werewolf Series by MaryJanice Davidson
25. Jared's Wolf : Wyndham Werewolf Series by MaryJanice Davidson
26. Derik's bane : Wyndham Werewolf Series by MaryJanice Davidson
27. This Pen for Hire by Laura Levine
28. Last Writes by Laura Levine
29. Nightlife by Caitlin Kittredge
30. On What Grounds by Cleo Coyle
31. Through the Grinder by Cleo Coyle
32. Pick Your Poison (Yellow Rose Mysteries) by Leann Sweeney
33. Lemon Meringue Pie Murder by Joanne Fluke
34. Furdge Cupcake Murder by Joanne Fluke
35. Sugar Cookie Murder by by Joanne Fluke
36. The Ghost and Mrs. McClure (Prime Crime Mysteries) by Alice Kimberly
37. No Rest for the Witches - Davidson, Warren etc anthology
38. Vamps in the City by Kerrelyn Sparks
39. Playing with Fire by Gena Showalter
40. Dead Sexy by Amanda Ashley
41. Ain't Myth-Behaving by Katie MacAlister
42. Really Something by Shirley Jump
43. Dark Desire by Christine Feehan
44. Dark Gold by Christine Feehan
45. Dark Magic by Christine Feehan
46. Dark Challenge by Christine Feehan
47. Dark Fire by Christine Feehan
48. Dark Legend by Christine Feehan
49. Dark Guardian by Christine Feehan
50. Dark Symphony by Christine Feehan
51. Not Just A Witch by Eva Ibbotson
52. Mum's the Word: A Flower Shop Mystery by Kate Collins
53. How to Murder a Millionaire by Nancy Martin

Woot I passed 50 already!! Hmm mostly cozy mysteries and paranormal though heheh So many books to read so little time!

97. Goddess of the Light by PC Cast

 Goddess of the Light is the 3rd book in the Goddess series. With the change in Persephone (See Goddess of the Spring), Zeus has a great idea to open up the mortal realm for the Gods and Goddesses to experience and the twins Apollo and Artemis go to Las Vegas where Bacchus, god of wine, full of jealousy and resentment for being once more usurped by the golden twins plots his revenge. Pamela Smythe is inadvertedly drawn into the mix when she unconcsciously bound Artemis to her wish( though Bacchus), and Apollo is given the task of wooing and making her wish come true.

The book actually started pretty good, I love how Lina and Hades were tied to the story and how seeing them affected Apollo and go on his own search for love. Enter Pamela who was in Las Vegas to look at a design for the estate of famous fantasy author ED Faust. Apollo and Pamela fall in love and overcomes the chaos that Bacchus creates. I like how ED Faust was incorporated in the book, too. But personally the ending of a book affects how much I like the book and the book just ended up weird for me. I felt that the characters weren't that deeveloped when bam the end so I ended up with mix feelings about the book as a whole. It was an ok read.

Rating: B -

98. Goddess of the Rose by PC Cast

Goddess of the Rose is the 4th book in the Goddess series and actually the first one I've read of PC Cast. Using the story of Beauty and the Beast, the story tells of how Mikki ended up in the Realm of the Roses where she is destined to play a big role as well as fall in love with the guardian of the realm

The book started a little slow for me actually, MIkki had a whole my life is going nowhere moment at the beginning of the book with even a disastrous date and where we find out that her blood helps her roses grow. In the rose gardens, she unknowingly frees the guardian of the realm who was cursed by the Goddess Hecate for a mistake he made and Mikki ends up in the realm of the rose where ebcomes the Priestess.

I like how Cast writes strong female characters and the ending had the awww factor for me. I didn't love it but it was ok. A good introduction to the author.

Rating: B

99. Goddess of the Spring by PC Cast

Goddess of the Spring is the 2nd book of the Goddess series and I have to say that this is my favorite book so far.

Following the myth of Hades and Persephone, Linda exchanges souls with Persephone to save her bakery during the time when Persephone needs to stay in the Underworld. And during this time, Linda starts falling in love with the reclusive Hades.

The story of Hades and Persephone has always had a romantic twist for me, which was helped when they used this plot in the Hercules series with a hunky Hades to boot. The beginning started a little too slow for me but when Lina finally arrives in the Underworld, the story picks up and the supporting characters were also very endearing. Her powers with animals I really liked too and of course the ending just made me want to read the book all over again.

Rating : A

Goddess of the Sea by PC Cast

The first book in the Goddes series is Goddess of the Sea but it  can work as a standalone also. I thought that this was the 2nd book in the series so I ended up reading this after reading Goddess of the Spring and Goddess of the Rose.

Basically is about this Air Force Sergeant who wished for magic in ther life. During an airplance crash, she magically trades body with Undine. And gets transported into the world of the Gods and Goddesses. And there she becomes empowered and falls in love amidst all the challenges.

Admittedly , I was on a role reading Cast's books so I wanted to get read a smuch as I can. I liked this book but not as much as I like Goddess of the Spring though. The whole plot is similar to the Little Mermaid with a stronger female character with a kind of twist. The heroine becomes a mermaid but finds out that her stepbrother is obsessed with her so to escape him, she went to land, her mother's dwelling and finds the prince and shelter in a monastery run by a haughty and bigotted monk, while falling with love with Undine's childhood merman friend. Some parts were a bit too new age goddess for me but all in all it was a good read.  

Rating: B

Currently Reading : Pick your Poison by Leann Sweeney

Hello 2008

I know it's been like forever but rest assured that books have been piling up both on the TBR(To Be Read) and AR(Already Read) list. I dont really remember which ones I read this year or last year but I think I'll just start with the ones I distinctly remember reading this year hehe.

 

Authors I have discovered or rediscovered recently are Nora Roberts, I didn't read her books before because she didn't really seem like my type I don't know why. I had the impression that she was very Danielle Steele which I don't have anything I guess but those kinds of theme are too soap operaish for me. Anyway, I discovered the HIbiya LIbrary in Tokyo with it's supposedly 4,600 foreign books (seemed less though) and it had foreign novels!!! halleluiah! some of the books were older ones and some of the series books had only one book (ie sheerily kenyon sins of the night, feehan's dark melody) but beggars can't be chooseres haha SO anyway, I eneded up borrowing Robert's Key trilogy ( they have around 20 or roberts books) and I loved it!!!! Went through all of them, well almost all of them but have so much more to read!!!!

Late 2007 list (Character in Bold are books I particularly like)

Nora Roberts

1.Cordina's royal family : Gabriella & Alexander

2.Red Lily

3.Northern lights

4.Night tales : Night shift ; Night shadow

5.Cordina's royal family: Bennet

6.Blue dahlia

7.Key of valor

8.Key of knowledge

9.Key of light

10.Engaging the enemy

11. Morrigan's Cross (Circle Trilogy )

12.Dance of the Gods (Circle Trilogy )

13.Valley of Silence (Circle Trilogy )

14.Going home

15.Three fates

16.Midnight Bayou

17.The villa

18.Carnal innocence

19.River's end

20.The reef

21.Sanctuary

22.Montana sky

23.Lawless

 

24. MIdnight for Charlie Bone by Jenny Nimmo