Tabitha Tomala

This review is also feature on Behind the Pages: A Lust For Blood

Thank you to R & R Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

There is a raging bloodlust within Oriana. Each time the full moon rises it breaks free and any within her reach become victims. Cursed to relive the horror again and again, Oriana has surrounded the town of (name) with a magical forest. But demon hunter Garren has found his way through, learning of the demon who hunts each full moon. Now Oriana must hide her true nature from Garren or else be struck down. And all the while a thought lingers in the back of her mind. If Garren was able to make it through the forest, is she truly trapped?

A Lust For Blood carries readers through both the past and present as Oriana and Garren's stories are told. There is an allure the characters feel towards one another as they each hold onto closely guarded secrets. The mysteries surrounding them are just as enticing to the reader as they are to the characters. And there is no doubt that Orianna and Garren begin to feel a physical attraction.

But as their pasts came to light, I wish there had been more detail behind Oriana's. Her backstory is steeped in betrayal and tragedy. But while readers will discover the origin of her curse, the reasoning behind it remains unclear until almost the end of the book. I needed more pieces to put into place as Orianna struggled with her affliction. Characters from her past would appear and force her into claiming victims. Without the reasoning behind it all, I found the actions of the characters confusing and disjointed.

However, K.C. Smith did a fantastic job describing Oriana's struggle with the curse. Each transformation was a battle and the emotional turmoil brought intensity to the story. The grief and guilt Orianna faced down after each full moon was heart-wrenching. Watching Orianna's curse take its toll on her mentally brought the readers closer to the character and the hope that somehow, someway the curse could be lifted.

I would recommend A Lust For Blood to readers who enjoy a relationship based on instant attraction with a hint of forbidden love. This is a fantasy romance novel, with a mix of folklore as well. While it is not necessarily a fast-paced novel, it will keep readers attention with the mystery of Orianna's curse and her bloodlust free days running out.

The Near Witch tells the story of a town on the moors. A town called Near where the inhabitants are superstitious about anything different. And that superstition caused them to make a horrible choice years ago. One that will come back to lure their children away during the night and punish them for their misguided deeds. But instead of believing in the old tales spoken of the Near Witch, they focus instead on a stranger. One who arrived in town the day their children began to disappear.

The town of Near is steeped in tradition and aside from Lexi and her late father, the townsfolk would rather keep things the same than try anything new. When Cole takes up residence with the local witch sisters, it causes quite a stir. The allure of a mysterious new boy entices Lexi to find him before her uncle and the other narrow-minded individuals of Near can.

Cole is a boy with a tragic past, one that forced him to shut himself off from most people. Readers will be drawn in as Lexi slowly breaks down his insecurities and gains his trust. While it may be a bit cliché, watching the evolution of Cole as a character was extremely satisfying. Any time a character has the chance at a better life and is forced to fight for it, I’m hooked. The way he gradually opened up to his abilities, and how they in turn allowed them to grow closer to the end goal of finding the children was wonderful.

However, there was a lot of back and forth in this story. Lexi would consistently revisit the same locations instead of readers having enough time to immerse themselves fully in each scene. Being that this was the first book Victoria Schwab wrote, I can understand the use of travel as a way to stretch the time spent solving the mystery. But where the story may have felt a bit imbalanced with the sense of time passing, the characters more than made up for it.

Despite Lexi’s father passing away prior to the beginning of the story, Victoria Schwab forms a wonderful bond between Lexi and her departed father. Many of Lexi’s actions bring back memories of her father and the townsfolk also provide subtle hints about the similarities between father and daughter. Through her father’s influence, Lexi is able to see beyond the limited view of the town and embrace new possibilities.

The Near Witch is a slower-paced read, but if you enjoy Victoria Schwab’s other novels I would suggest giving this a try. Just bear in mind when you start it, that it does read like a first novel. There will be flaws that her later works do not have, but the story is still very much enjoyable.

From fires to natural disasters, New Orleans has been rebuilt numerous times. And with each tragedy, ghosts have remained caught in the Veil. Everywhere Cassidy steps, the veil pulls, and stepping through provides a confusing mix of past events. But it’s not just the ghosts she has to worry about this time. A harbinger of death has caught onto Cassidy’s trail and seeks to bring her to the other side.

The history and chilling tales of New Orleans come to life as Cassidy and Jacob navigate their way through the French Quarter. Dodging death at every turn and searching for a way to escape the harbinger’s notice. But it has a way of finding Cassidy no matter where she turns. When Lara advises her to find the secret society tied to studying the Veil, readers will begin to learn more about the abilities Cassidy possesses. The information Cassidy gains is fascinating and serves to spin together a larger world picture.

And let’s not forget Victoria Schwab’s ability to fully immerse readers in each moment Cassidy and Jacob experience. The slow creeping dread as Death brushes by, a hair's breadth from reaching Cassidy, or the crippling tragedies Cassidy finds herself reliving in the Veil. Each encounter serves to plunge the reader further into the dark side of New Orleans, and the risks Veil Walkers take each time they crossover.

But it isn't all ghosts and tragedy. Despite all it has faced, the city of New Orleans also embraces life. While there are many high-tension moments strewn throughout Bridge of Souls, there is also a subtle reminder that life goes on. The culture of New Orleans is beautifully woven into the story, from the architecture to the festivals they hold.

Like the previous two novels, I enjoyed every minute of Bridge of Souls. There are just enough creepy elements blended with ghostly history to keep me invested in the story. And the characters are wonderful to follow as they endure ups and downs in their friendships with each new challenge they face.

Thank you to InD'tale Magazine for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

When Margrete’s arranged marriage is announced, a small shred of hope blossoms. Count Casbian may be as bad as her abusive father, or he may be her chance at a better life. She’s willing to take the chance if it means escape. But as the wedding day dawns, pirates attack and capture Margrete. Bash, King of Azantian, seeks to ransom her away for a powerful item her father stole. At first resentful of her capture, Margrete does all she can to escape. Until she finds out the truth of her father’s deception. It’s not just her life on the line, it is the world itself. And something is calling out to Margrete, a whisper of terrible power.

Margrete has learned well to keep her outspoken side hidden. If she speaks even one word out of line, her father is quick to retaliate. He is an oppressive and controlling man, willing to do anything to achieve his goals. However, despite all she has endured, Margrete remains strong and willful. When Margrete is taken captive, her true self shines brilliantly. Bash and his companions have their hands full as Margrete lashes out at them. She has a fighting spirit no man can tame. And no matter what obstacles stand in her way, she is willing to face them if it means protecting those she loves.

Margrete is a powerful example of independence and inner strength. However, there were times she discovered things a bit too quickly. For example, when the court seer of Azantian was introduced to Margrete they were physically described. No other information was given. Margrete immediately knew they were a seer, and there was not enough information within the context of the story to support her claim. She was correct, but I could not understand how she came to her conclusion. There needed to be a bit more build-up and subtle cues to make Margrete’s discoveries believable.

The Girl Who Belonged to the Sea incorporates Gods and magic but remains focused on developing Margrete’s relationships. The love and devotion she shows her younger sister are heartwarming. The harsh and violent relationship with her father will set a reader’s teeth on edge. And the risky relationship she develops with Bash will leave readers apprehensive and wondering in which direction it will go. Tension is laced within Bash and Margrete’s relationship, and the consequences of their actions are constantly hanging over their every move. With such a mix of emotions on the page, readers can’t help but feel the need to know more.

This first book in the Azantian Trilogy sets a strong foundation for future stories. The magical elements and lore woven into the story provide a wonderful accent to the storytelling and characters. The Girl Who Belonged to the Sea is a book for readers who enjoy romance and relationships between strong-willed individuals.

The night of the dragon approaches and Yumeko’s enemies hold all the pieces needed to summon it. And while Kage has control of his body once again, even teaming up with the oni Hakaimono may not be enough. Time is running out as Yumeko, Kage, and their companions race to Iwagoto to stop the summoning. But a hoard of demons stands between them and their goal. When they meet the yokai from Yumeko’s dreams, an unlikely ally may be the help they need, but it will come at a terrible cost.

Some readers may be enticed to continue reading for the developing character relationships, but the Japanese lore continues to pull me into this world. And Julie Kagawa doesn’t fail to introduce new demons and information in this final novel. Each battle is skillfully drawn out, weaving in new experiences for the reader and creating devastation in their wake as the characters near their final destination. But I did find the romantic side of the story took away from the action.

While there is an even mix of romance and battle to appease various readers, some of the relationships developed rapidly in Night of the Dragon. Albeit the characters are marching off to battle, and not all may survive, but romance made from desperation does not interest me. Especially when there is a large build-up and apprehension for an ensuing battle, and the romance is placed right before it all comes to a head, putting everything on hold. I found myself wanting to skip ahead to the battle scene.

However, everyone’s character arc wraps up by the end of Night of the Dragon. For some, their endings were predictable but no less entertaining to witness. Others I felt went against their base nature readers have grown to know from book one. It is a bittersweet ending as sacrifices are made, but the conclusion for some breaks the emotional weight of losing characters readers have come to know and love. The ending did feel as though Julie Kagawa was afraid to layer on more heartache for the readers.

Night of the Dragon was filled with Japanese lore, epic battles, and surprising revelations. Even if some of the relationships felt rushed, the dialogue between characters helped propel the story forward. The ending did feel a bit drawn out, and I felt the focus should have remained on overcoming the Master of Demons, but the subplot had to come into play by the last book. If you enjoy Japanese folklore and typical young adult romance I’d still give this one a try.

Thank you to K.R.R. Lockhaven for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Over time Azure’s enjoyment of running an Inn alongside her father has waned. His racism towards anyone not human is taking a toll on her patience. And when the new governor arrives spouting his bigoted words of “Humans First” her father embraces the message. Disgusted Azure casts her father aside, but as the ship bearing him begins to leave Azure is racked with guilt. And while she soon finds herself aboard the governor's ship his constant verbal attack against nonhumans grates against her nerves. Something must be done to stop him.

There is quite the cast of characters Azure will meet as she embarks on her quest to save her father from the governor’s misguided notions. My favorite of them was the marauders. A team of seafaring folk who search the seas for people to help instead of people to pirate. They are a team who love to tell tales and sing songs. And while their humor can be a bit juvenile, they have good hearts.

The worldbuilding aspect of The Marauders, the Daughter, and the Dragon needed fine-tuning. There are many moments of exposition as characters tell their stories, and not all of them seemed relevant to building relationships or moving the plot. The magic system also needed some work. As the story progresses, readers will learn about different types of magic from fellow characters and cultures, but it is more of a surface explanation. There was a lot of potential for cultural learning moments and worldbuilding.

K.R.R. Lockhaven does a fantastic job creating an evil and bigoted antagonist. Governor Pratt is a despicable man who influences and manipulates people into rising against anyone who is not human. During his time on the page, readers will definitely feel resentful towards him and urge Ellery on in her quest to bring him down.

The Marauders, the Daughter, and the Dragon is a tale for readers who enjoy various types of upfront humor and a swashbuckling adventure on the high seas. And while the main antagonist is vehemently against nonhumans, Ellery’s message of acceptance and friendship for all beings far outweighs it. With magic, dragons, humor, and pirates, there is sure to be something for everyone who enjoys a fantasy read.

Cassidy Blake knows what it's like to pass into the world of the dead. The Veil reaches out to her, calling for her to witness the final moments of ghosts trapped in time. Alongside her ghost best friend, Jacob, Cassidy navigates both the worlds of the living and the dead. When her parents have the opportunity to explore haunted cities for their new TV show, Cassidy tags along. But their first destination, Edinburgh, Scotland is a city filled with unsettled spirits. When one known as the Red Raven catches sight of Cassidy in the Veil, she fixates on stealing Cassidy’s life to walk among the living once more.

Cassidy is a character filled with curiosity about the unknown. And while her parents spin tales of ghosts to entertain their viewers, there is a difference between believing in the old stories and Cassidy being able to see ghosts. Jacob on the other hand is ironically a ghost who does not enjoy scary situations. But being Cassidy’s best friend means he’s along for every single encounter with fellow spirits and has to hear about the chilling tales from Cassidy’s parents. Jacob’s quips and smart remarks certainly help to break the tension at key moments throughout the story.

As they ventured from one haunted site to another, Victoria Schwab painted the picture of a historical and haunted Edinburgh in wonderful detail. Being able to observe Cassidy’s parents filming their haunted TV show allowed readers to be introduced to ghost stories from Edinburg without using large drops of information. They are just enough detail for Cassidy when she traversed the veil to see the spirits. And oftentimes her parent’s stories would start the ramp-up of tension that would then amplify as Cassidy witnessed firsthand the ghosts they spoke about.

City of Ghosts is the perfect starting point for young readers and even adults who are interested in ghost stories. There is just enough of a spooky feeling and close encounters to draw readers in but not overwhelm them. Cassidy's friendship with Jacob also has a wonderful comedic relief and their back and forth banter adds a charming touch to the story. This is a fast-paced, enjoyable read and a great series to start during October. I highly recommend this to fans of ghost stories.

Thank you to Ariel Paiement for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Gwen may have escaped Oblivion but they will not stop hunting for her. Gwen prepares herself for the fight ahead, ever conscious of the empty space beside her as Sheppard continues his battle inside Oblivion. The rare moments they have together, make her yearn for the day it will all be over. Meanwhile, Sheppard is forced to play Oblivion’s game. Rising in the ranks may give him insight into Oblivion’s plans, but it comes with a cost. And when Oblivion’s latest idea to retrieve Gwen uncovers startling truths, Sheppard’s hard pressed to keep both Gwen and the Coalition safe.

Gwen has come a long way from the girl readers first met in Shadow’s Dissident. While there are still moments her immaturity comes into play, she’s taking chances and doing what she can to help the Coalition. The main focus of Gwen’s interactions remains on her relationship dynamic with Sheppard and on anyone she interacts with that may threaten it. While potential rivals for Sheppard created a good source of tension, I would have liked to see how Gwen and Sheppard interacted with people who didn’t pose a threat to their relationship. Their lives are rarely easy, but letting them sneak in a few moments of happiness with others would have been a wonderful way to round out their characters.

Each character in Light’s Insurgent is complex and thought-provoking. Ariel Paiement has created a cast of main characters with such a depth of emotional burden, that readers can’t help but sympathize with them. Vivianna in particular balances on the fine edge of control. Her ability to function due to her emotional state is a major adversary in this novel. Oblivion has taken so much from her and continues to demand more. The choices Vivianna is forced to make in order to help the Coalition eat away at her mind. But she continues because there is no other way. Vivianna’s struggle tore at my heart as she fought to stand and fight despite all she faced.

Light’s Insurgent is a dialogue-driven narrative. It’s a story of revolution and all the risks and sacrifices that come with it. While there are brief mentions of the settings and character abilities with light and shadow, the focus remains on the challenges each character faces and the horrors of Oblivion. This is a novel for readers who enjoy light sci-fi and character focused stories.

Thank you to Escapist Tours for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Taken from her family at a young age, Kerelle was raised in the PsiCorps and trained to be their weapon. As a class three telepath and class three telekinetic, she’s called in to destroy targets and strike fear into opposing populaces. Kerelle has no choice but to obey, the collar around her throat is SysTech’s insurance. And if she complies with SysTech’s orders, she is free to do as she wishes. Until she finds out when a high enough price is paid, even class three psionics can be sold off to be servants of the rich. When her lover Galhen is sold, escape become Kerelle’s main goal. If she frees herself, she can free Galhen as well.

The characterization in The Stars Within was so well crafted. Through a clever mix of flashbacks and current events, Kerelle’s emotional state is depicted in startling detail. Despite the lies, she tells herself to sleep at night, the guilt and horror at what she must do creep into her mind. And as her anchor, Galhen is the loving support she needs. Together they help each other keep the negative feelings at bay. The way their romance was softly brought into the picture and built throughout their short time together was heart-wrenching. And when the two are pulled apart, readers will be cheering Kerelle on as she quests for freedom and a reunion with Galhen.

I loved the way the story was told. Short bursts of scenes drew me in and painted each new situation. There was just enough information presented to fully immerse me into the dark and militaristic lifestyle Kerelle lived. Despite Kerelle being on campaigns for months at a time, Lena Alison Knight made sure to highlight only the most important scenes. There was no time wasted reaching the emotional impact of the campaigns and how they affected Kerelle’s future outlook.

While The Stars Within sets a darker tone it is a fast-paced read. There is a touch of political tension as the story progresses, but it serves more as a background element to accent the choices Kerelle makes. The true focus of the story remains on Kerelle and her struggle against SysTech's control over her. Her mental battle against losing Galhen and contending with all SysTech throws at her is a gripping tale. I cannot wait to see what happens next. The Stars Within is a great novel for fans of soft sci-fi novels with military sci-fi and space exploration mixed in.

Thank you to Susana Imaginario for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Were the Gods to answer every prayer, the worlds they resided over would fall to ruin. However, one dryad’s final prayer draws the attention of a goddess. And in doing so traps the goddess Psyche in her mortal body. Now a Wyrd, Psyche, must find the true purpose behind her imprisonment. But as she wanders the world she is trapped in, she will find that the God of Time has been forcing worlds to collide. And she isn’t the only God trapped.

Wyrd Gods was beautifully written. Susana Imaginario’s use of language created an enchanting and captivating world for the characters to reside in. Each scene is laced with emotional detail and dreamlike in quality. The way she seamlessly blended multiple pantheons of gods into one concise and intricate story took a great amount of skill. And the characters are multilayered. Each has their own agenda and desires. Sometimes they may coincide with one another, but each will be out for their own personal gain.

That being said, I am not as familiar with mythology as I most likely should be to read this novel. The various pantheons and clash of gods confused me. If I understood their backgrounds and histories more clearly, it would have been easier for me to digest the various names appearing on the page. The main players in the story were recognizable to me such as Loki, Odin, and Hades. But there were many names of demigods and titans I did not know. I do believe if I had a better grasp of their wants and needs from mythology I would have been able to understand the concept of their desires better in the novel.

The audio narration of Wyrd Gods is just as beautiful as the writing. Sarah Kempton flawlessly captured the personalities and emotions of each character. And as she began narrating the contest of wills between Psyche and Ileana I found myself entranced. I highly recommend listening to this on audiobook. It will draw you in all the quicker as the narration adds another layer to the world-building and characterization.

Wyrd Gods is a wonderful read for those who enjoy mythology. Especially if mythology from various cultures captures your interest. There are many characters to remember, but as the story progresses you’ll grow to know each and every one of them. There is plenty of mystery and political tension within the story to keep readers engaged and guessing right up until the very end.

As a direct sequel to Mariel of Redwall, Mariel and Dandin’s story continues in The Bellmaker. When Mariel and Dandin come upon endangered creatures in Mossflower Woods, they immediately jump to save them. Upon doing so they discover Gael Squirrel King has been besieged by the foxes Silvamord and Urgan Nagru. Meanwhile, in Redwall Abbey, Mariel’s father Joseph the Bellmaker dreams of Martin the Warrior. Warned of the danger his daughter faces, Joseph gathers a team of Redwall creatures to aid Mariel.

Brian Jacques introduces new twists on villains in The Bellmaker. Foxes are a known adversary of Mossflower creatures, but never before has a Foxwolf appeared. Urgan Nagru thrills in the hunt. His blood-curdling howls he unleashes strike terror into his prey. A chill raced down my spine hearing it on audiobook. The Foxwolf prides himself on tactics and his determination to win. Mariel, Dandin and their companions will be hard pressed to escape Urgan Nagru’s clutches. Readers will be pulled into the challenges Nagru and his mate throw at the heroes.

Another known adversary to the creatures of Mossflower Woods are sea rats. When their pirate ship is stolen, sea rats Slipp and Blaggut find themselves wandering Mossflower Woods. When they stumble on two lost dibbins, they find themselves escorted to Redwall Abbey. No one is happy about their presence, but the creatures of Redwall are willing to give them a chance. While the two plot and plan to steal treasure from Redwall, readers will be surprised by the actual outcome of their endeavors. Brian Jacques deviates in a way I never would have expected.

The Bellmaker is a tale to be enjoyed by all ages. While there are battles, Brian Jacques writes in a way that minimizes the details and yet still engages readers. There is no doubt creatures fall in battle, but the story doesn’t focus on these moments. Instead, Brian Jaques allows readers to understand how the heroes feel about their actions. They do not enjoy the act of violence, but when there is no other choice they must defend themselves.

Each Redwall book explores what it means to be a hero. And each hero finds themselves aided by wonderful creatures they call friends. Despite the hardships that are present within The Bellmaker there is also a healthy dose of humor, friendship, and action. Lives may be lost, but there is always the presence of hope coursing through the story. I enjoyed the new take on different creatures, showing that despite all the lore and worldbuilding present in the Redwall series, there is still much left to discover.

The Hollows begins with death...

Those who have been longtime fans of The Hollows series all know how the supernatural creatures came out of the closet. Tomatoes. People looking at this review with no knowledge of the series are probably now thinking...tomatoes? What in the hell do tomatoes have to do with the supernatural?

Elves are near extinction. Modified by the demons before escaping the Everafter, most Elven families cannot bear healthy children. Those children who can be brought to full term must endure painful treatments in order to survive. Because of this, most elves study to become geneticists, each trying to save their dying race.

Trisk and Kalamack are no different. Rivals in school, they each earn top ranks in their class, but there is more than just a difference in their genetic theories. Trisk is a dark elf woman in the '60s when a woman was thought to be best kept at home minding their households. But Trisk has a brilliant mind and despite the bullying she receives, is determined to do what she can to save her race.

Forced to work in a human lab, Trisk toils away at building a crop of tomatoes that can end world hunger. At the same time, she works alongside her fellow scientists ensuring that any tactical virus created will not hurt members of the supernatural races who live in hiding among the humans. While the Elven Enclave is satisfied with the work Trisk has accomplished, they do not fully trust her. After all, how can a woman be so successful? Kalamack is tasked to oversee her work and if he happens to slap his name onto her work and claim it as his own all the better. But hell is about to break loose as the carefully developed tomatoes take on the tactical virus targeted to humans. For years pixies, elves, witches, vampires and the like have been living in secret among humans. But what happens when they are the only ones who survive the deadly tomatoes?

True to The Hollows series, this book is filled with magic slinging action and heart-stopping scenes. This was a bit more technical, involving a great deal of simplified science to explain the work Trisk and Kalamack achieve. While these parts were a bit slow, they were necessary and easy enough to understand.

It was great seeing familiar faces pop up in this prequel. It was fun reading about how they were before the era of Rachel, Ivy, and Jenks. Though I did miss those three so much when reading this! Trisk was a likable character and showed just how hard it was to be a successful woman in the '60s. Frowned on by not only her own race but humans as well, she pushed forward past all the doubt and kept going.

I do have to admit I cringed reading about Kalamack. Seeing how he began, I can't help but know I will be looking at him in a new light when I reread The Hollows. I mean we all knew he was a scummy businessman, but it goes much deeper than that now!

Reading about the T4 Angel Tomato's path of destruction was heartbreaking. The Hollows itself was created from this event. Watching people live in the aftermath in the original series doesn't really show just how bad things were. This novel brings the turning point front and center. You will watch as humans are corralled into quarantine zones, families are torn apart, and children struggle to survive while watching their parents slowly die. It will make you laugh and cry, as Trisk tries to right the wrongs brought upon the world of humans.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Ever After

Rachel is really in for it this time. The ley line she tore through realities has sprung a major leak, and the Ever After is shrinking. She knows Ku'Sox has to be involved, but without proof, the demons won't do a thing to help her. Time is not on her side. If she can't fix the line, the demons are ready to kill her in a last-ditch effort to fix it.

Ever After really put Rachel to the test. Every time she seemed to gain an inch, it was taken away from her. But instead of giving up, she came back swinging. She knew the odds were stacked against her from the start, but she refused to back down and let Ku'Sox win. I have always admired Rachel's ability to take hits and keep on moving. She is a determined and ambitious woman I love to read about.

I do have to say though, there were some major moments in this book that fell flat. Some of the core characters throughout this series only earned summarized scenes and the impact of their actions fell short. I do understand the reason behind this tactic. I don't think there was a way to give them more page time given the way the story flowed. But I'm still wishing they had more time with the readers.

That being said, Ever After is still a great action filled and fast-paced read. Kim Harrison has such a talent for building up characters readers once hated and turning them into people we root for in the end. When I first revisited this series, I couldn't believe I ended up liking certain characters. But you know what? I totally see it now because once again my opinions of them have done a complete turnaround. Kim adds so much to her characters and brings them through fantastic character arcs.

The Hollows series is great for readers that are driven by character development. Each character, no matter their part in the story is complex and evolves with each new installment to the series. And there is never a dull moment. Rachel is always on the move and taking on her next challenge.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Undead Pool

Rachel never seems to catch a break. As if saving the Ever After wasn't enough, now pandemonium is breaking out across Cincinnati. Living vampires are inciting riots, their undead masters nowhere to be found, and spells are backfiring. The death toll is rising and the precarious peace between humans and inderlanders is about to break. War is brewing in the distance if things don't settle down. Rachel must rely on elven magic and a possibly insane Goddess to solve her latest slew of problems. Just another day in the life of Rachel Morgan right?

Every Hollows book is a fast-paced ride. This time around Rachel is dealing in elven magic, and drawing closer to the world Trent has been politically maneuvering around all his life. The elves have no hesitation in showing their contempt for Rachel now that she has been labeled a demon. While she knew they were arrogant people, she won't understand the depth of their hatred until she faces it head on.

Kim Harrison has a talent for taking characters you loathe and transforming them into characters you love. And she does it in a subtle way across books, so you feel the full effect of their transformation. Each little act takes them a step farther towards becoming a favorite. I think back to the actions they took originally and can't believe I am now rooting for them to succeed.

This book was a bit steamier than the previous novels, though I can't say it entirely bothered me this time. The relationship was slow to build, taking the space of several novels, so it just felt right to finally see Rachel be with someone again. I'm one of those readers who enjoy the slow burn because it feels more realistic. Instant romances are not my cup of tea.

As always, the characters were a delight to read about and the magic slinging action kept me engaged. I love seeing the creative ways Rachel has to puzzle out her newest problem, and all the pitfalls she has to avoid as she works towards a solution. The Hollows is Urban Fantasy at its finest!

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Witch With No Name

Through the years Rachel has grown in power and skill. She's gotten herself into and out of some of the toughest situations and faced down countless adversaries. And now is the time for her to take all that she has learned and put it to the test. Rynn Cormel wants his soul and to get it he will do whatever it takes. It doesn't matter that Rachel just saved the undead vampires in Cincinnati. Cormel will kill whoever he has to in order to force Rachel to bind his soul to him. But she has to find it first.

The Witch With No Name was a phenomenal book. No one was safe and it was a hell of a ride to find out each person's fate. There were some unexpected turns and carefully crafted words to make your heart stop. Rachel drew on everything she had to navigate the numerous obstacles thrown in her path. But even with all her power and abilities, sacrifices had to be made.

Remember back in Dead Witch Walking when Ivy asked Rachel to save her soul if she died her first death? Kim Harrison brought the series full circle by making the main plot device finding and retrieving an undead vampire's soul. Given that The Witch With No Name was intended to be the last of The Hollows, this was a brilliant way to end the series. Kim Harrison never lost track of the initial spark that created her world. She brought back most of the characters we've met in the series, but in a way that didn't crowd the book And almost everyone finished out their character arcs.

I think the best thing about this series has been that Kim Harrison never loses sight of what's important to her characters. They've grown so much over the years, but still, captivate me just as much as they did from the start. Despite the heartaches and setbacks they have encountered, they pick themselves back up. The Witch With No Name highlights the ties that bind each character and the lengths they will go to protect their loved ones.

I am so happy The Hollows has continued. And now, I can't wait to read American Demon.

Embracing her role as the Subrosa for the city, Rachel is giving her all to maintain order. And despite the larger challenges looming over her head, she does not back down on her morals to keep the supernaturals in line. She may be a demon, but she refuses to twist dark curses and behave as the others do. Rachel’s humanity and steadfast beliefs are such an anchor point for her as a character. And while it may cause her more heartache in the end by not taking the easy way out, Rachel provides readers with an entertaining ride.

Trouble with the Cursed also explores coming to terms with the new appearance of demons and learning to embrace them as fellow citizens. This forces people to walk the fine line of trying not to judge before knowing them. But even if the demons appear to be on good behavior, Rachel knows what they are fully capable of. It’s only a matter of time before they push their boundaries and force Rachel’s hand. But Rachel won’t realize until it’s too late just how manipulative and crafty some can be.

Yet demons aren’t the only ones Rachel has to worry about. She’ll have to balance between keeping them in line and dealing with a visiting undead vampire. The dance of vampire politics is always a thrilling addition to the story. Especially when it allows Ivy to return. The love between Ivy and Rachel is so beautiful. Knowing each other’s boundaries and caring deeply for one another as friends is heartwarming.

Kim Harrison has created yet another wonderful addition to The Hollows series. With each new story, there's a fresh new take on the challenges facing Rachel and her loved ones. There is never a dull moment and the emotional depth of Rachel as a character is profound. Urban fantasy readers will love The Hollows.

Bound by promise, Shiori quests to reunite a broken pearl with the dragon who can make it whole again. But along the way, she will have to face a number of challenges. From dragons to demons and even members of her own court. Shiori will journey across the land, risking the lives of those she loves to fulfill her promise.

The Dragon’s Promise took a while to reach a steady flow of narrative. Shiori’s venture into the dragon kingdom promised a powerful start to the story, but not enough time was spent building the world around the settings. The ambitions of the King and his subjects were quite clear, but the lore and culture were not as in-depth as readers have seen in the first novel. This resulted in an action filled, yet rushed time in the kingdom. While this section of the story tied up loose ends from Six Crimson Cranes, it also seemed to be a distraction from the main quest.

The storytelling felt episodic as the plot progressed, reintroducing characters and then finding ways for them to take a step back and barely be mentioned once again. While it did prove to expand the reader’s knowledge of how various parties reacted to Shiori’s magic, it also felt disjointed. As if certain characters were only introduced to propel the plot forward instead of helping the characters develop. However, my favorite moments were with Shiori and Takkan. After everything readers learned about them in book one, it was wonderful to see them stumble along and realize what their relationship could be. As the story focused on them facing challenges together, I was thoroughly hooked.

And once again Kiki was my favorite part. The little paper bird is selfless and has no problem speaking her mind. Even if it may get her and Shiori in trouble because she has no filter. The bond Kiki and Shiori share is heartwarming. They will selflessly defend one another and do all they can to help each other. Kiki also knew when to break the tension of a moment or urge Shiori to think about her choices by speaking up. Kiki was Shiori’s greatest champion, pushing her to develop and become a better person.

If you have read Six Crimson Cranes, I still encourage you to read The Dragon’s Promise. There is a great mix of romance, action, and lore, it just takes the story a little while to uncover it. And while it has its downfalls, the story does come to a satisfying ending.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Order of Chaos

For centuries Loki was locked away, tortured, and bound by magic. And for centuries he plotted the downfall of the Gods, the destruction of all, Ragnarok. When Loki is finally released, sparking the apocalypse is the first on his to-do list. But as the chaotic energy of Ragnarok lures him into beginning the world's destruction, Odin reveals the one thing that could stop Loki. The only problem? Ragnarok has already been unleashed.

The characters in this series are so alluring and unique. Though based on the Gods and Goddesses of Norse mythology, Lyra Wolf has breathed new life into them. This time around the children of Loki are brought to the forefront of the story. Watching Loki attempt a fatherly role, while also maintaining his steadfast attitude was entertaining, to say the least. Each time Loki navigated a new relationship he tested the boundaries, almost to the breaking point. And of course, he made assumptions and choices that were in his best interest, while steadfastly believing it was for the other party's own good. I love this complexity about his character, how he ultimately thinks he is doing the right thing based on his beliefs, yet ends up making mistakes along the way.

And of course, there are smart-aleck quips and mischief abound in this novel as Loki navigates the treacherous calling of Ragnarok. While the humor may not have been as vibrant in this second novel, it still serves a key purpose. With all the seriousness of Ragnarok and even an army of dead marching on the world, Loki's words and wit break up the gloom and doom of the moment. It also contributes to the novel being a fast-paced and enjoyable read. While I read books that lean on the more serious side, The Order of Chaos stays poised in a perfect balance between light and dark tones.

The characters in The Nine Worlds Rising series are such a delight to read. The depth of emotion they feel and the way Lyra Wolf has captured them in words is truly remarkable. While fans of Norse mythology would enjoy this book and series, I highly recommend any fan of the fantasy genre give it a try. You won't be disappointed.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Killing Monsters

Hired to defeat a monster terrorizing the land, Shefa soon finds the king wasn't so honest with him. Never lie to a dragon, and never try to trick one into completing your dirty work.

At under a hundred pages, Killing Monsters is a quick and entertaining read. Both readers new to the series as well as those who have followed Shefa's journey will enjoy this tale. This snapshot of the By the Hand of Dragons world brings the brutal action Alexzander Christion is known for right to the forefront. Shefa has his own morals and code he follows. And readers will soon realize what he sees as justice, and how he takes matters into his own hands.

You never cross a dragon.

Killing Monsters is the perfect bite-sized portion of Alexzander Christion's writing. It's a story that comes full circle by the end and doesn't hesitate to show off Shefa's power and abilities. If you're on the edge, deciding whether or not to read the By the Hand of Dragons series, give this one a go. You might just find yourself itching to learn more about the chimera and Shefa's role in the grand scheme of things.

I'll have a mini review posted next week!

Epilogues for Lost Gods centers on the aftermath of Ragnarok. Sigyn has built an inclusive city of survivors, ushering in a new age of acceptance and prosperity. But there are those who would see her way of life destroyed. Asgard is rising from the ashes of civilization and they continue to follow the old ways. Sigyn is faced with bowing to their power or being destroyed. Determined to preserve the town of Vanaheim and the people entrusted to her care, Sigyn journeys to Helheim to seek aid.

Each day Loki journeys to the gates of Helheim, hoping it will be the day Sigyn joins him and Narvi. Year after year, he never loses hope of being reunited with her. But the days lay heavy as guilt and PTSD plague him. A silent agreement lies between Narvi and Loki, to never bring up their tragic past. Each contains their emotions rather than processing what has happened. And their mental health remains an ever-present challenge throughout the story. Cat Rector has such an in-depth way of describing Loki’s inner turmoil and translating it into physical manifestations. But Narvi is there to help him through the darker moments. The pain each share is enormous, and watching them struggle through it is heartbreaking.

When Loki learns about the possibility of a second chance at life, he immediately latches onto the small thread of hope presented to him. With war looming on the horizon, he and Narvi will do whatever they can to help Sigyn. But does the person who began the end of the world really deserve a second chance? The weight resting on Loki’s shoulders should not be his to bear alone, yet he holds himself solely responsible for Ragnarok. And there are many in Helheim who blame Loki and help reinforce his negative thoughts. But despite it all, his love for Sigyn drives him forward and empowers him to seek a second chance.

But this isn’t just Loki’s story. While he and Narvi embark on their journey, Sigyn prepares her city for war. Working to the bone and mentally draining herself, she keeps herself too busy to reflect back on Loki’s final moments. And while she and Loki have always had a complicated relationship, she still loves him. Yet Sigyn finds herself questioning if Loki’s love is what she truly desires. The potential to start another relationship, one free of heartache and trauma, tempts Sigyn. But she constantly pushes her feelings aside, burying herself deeper into work and preparations for war.

Love can be a complicated mess, and Cat Rector does a wonderful job of showing the different types of love one feels. Including the tenuous balancing act of moving from one relationship to the next. Grief and trauma are also portrayed in brutal clarity and the effects they can have on those who do not face them. Both Loki and Sigyn will have emotional hurdles they must overcome in order to move on with their lives. Whether it be with each other, or finally parting ways.

Epilogues for Lost Gods is a fitting conclusion to the Unwritten Runes duology. With Loki and Sigyn’s futures hanging in the balance, readers will be set on finding out if their paths will once again be united. And along the way, there will be plenty of battles, close calls, and emotionally wrenching scenes. I’m sad to see their stories come to an end.

The boroughs of New York may have won their last battle with the Women in White, but she is far from gone. Hovering over Staten Island, she’s brewing up new ways to strike out against the city. With her influence, a new mayoral candidate is taking the stage, spewing racism and bigotry, and he is swiftly winning over the populace turning New York on its heels. Brooklyn, Manny, Bronca, Venezia, Padmini, and Neek are going to have to think of a plan fast. Before they lose connections to their city and another universe is destroyed.

Once again the audiobook was a phenomenal listen. Being able to hear the various accents of the characters added to the experience. Not to mention the tactfully placed sound effects and modifications to voices that incorporated environment, pitch, and tone. I highly recommended giving this a listen. I’m sure it would be a great read, but the audio will definitely make it all the more enjoyable.

It never ceases to amaze me how N.K. Jemisin can take modern world politics and put a fantasy spin on them. Politics are usually the last thing I enjoy in a book, but the writing just pulls you in and makes you connect on a whole nother level. The amount of care and ingenuity that goes into each battle, and each struggle, makes the reader feel deeply for the characters and the fate of New York. It shows how people can band together to fight for their homes, their culture, and all the things that make them who they are. But it also shows the reverse, the darker sides of humanity, the ones that disregard the individual and want uniformity. The irrational need to purge anyone who is different. The hatred and depth of xenophobia in The World We Make are startling and hit home with the radical thinking that has been brought to light in recent years. It’s terrifying and eye-opening.

The World We Make also expands on the world-building of The City We Became, introducing readers to other awakened cities. Readers will travel around the world meeting a new host of personalities and opinions. It is a fascinating adventure learning snippets about different cultures and how they view the enemy. And while New York may be full of different cultures, they certainly are due to learn a lesson about other cities and how they handle themselves.

Once again N.K. Jemisin has created an engrossing and captivating tale of culture and social awareness. If you pick up this book, brace yourself for the stunning draw of real world politics into a fantasy setting. This book is chilling in how it connects to recent events and will pull readers in with the drive to find out how the characters endure each new challenge. Once you pick up this book, you won’t be able to put it back down again until you’re finished.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Ardulum First Don

To some the traveling plant of Ardulum is a legend, to others, it has become a focal point for worship. For Neek, it is a point of rebellion. The planetary government refuses to change its ways, blindly following the teachings left behind by the Ardulans. Neek makes a stand to speak out against the teachings and is rewarded with exile. Cast out into the galaxy, she finds her way aboard Mercy's Pledge, a transport ship that doesn't hesitate to smuggle an item or two. But when their newest cargo consists of a young Ardulan, Neek's entire worldview is thrown off course.

Ardulum First Don will take readers on a journey across the galaxy as the main characters embark on a quest to find answers and try to keep those they care about safe. A wide array of cultures will be introduced, and readers will find themselves immersed in a multicultural world filled with various cultures, beliefs, and representations.

My favorite character was Emm. When readers first meet Emm she is a child, naïve to the politics she is fully immersed in. As an Ardulan, there are those among the various planets who wish to exploit her for their own gains. Emm undergoes a journey of self-discovery as she is thrown into conflicts beyond her control, and ends up aboard the Mercy's Pledge. While the crew is unsure how to handle a young Ardulan, they do their best to keep her safe. But the threat grows ever larger as keeping her hidden becomes increasingly difficult. Emm's journey was the highlight of Ardulum First Don.

But Emm isn't the only character with challenges to overcome. Neek was indoctrinated to believe in the worship of Ardulans. However, as she grew, she began to question the beliefs of her people and whether Ardulans existed. When she is exiled from her planet, cast adrift with nowhere to call home, Yorden offers her a place aboard Mercy's Pledge. And when Neek comes face to face with what appears to be a true Ardulan, she begins to question everything. Readers will become engaged in Neek's emotional battle as she struggles to understand what is truth and what is a lie.

Ardulum First Don is a space adventure filled with interplanetary politics, space battles, and an underlying theme of found family. While it may have taken my mind a while to understand the biological terms used to explain the technology, the overarching story was captivating. Not to mention J. S. Fields built her characters in a way that left plenty of room for growth. Sci-fi is a hard sell for me, however, this is one series I hope to continue reading.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Dead Meat Day 5

Millie knows it's only a matter of time before the infection spreads. She's seen the scratch on her mother's boyfriend. But there is nowhere to go. Trapped on a ferry bound for Sweden, Millie does all she can to contain the impending zombie outbreak. But people all over the country are trying to escape, and inevitably the infection will spread.

The Dead Meat series has captured a zombie outbreak in startling detail. As readers enter Day 5 it's clear widespread panic is settling in. No matter what the news may say, people are beginning to realize just how much trouble they are in. And as they try to flee the center of infection, more and more mistakes are made.

Nick Clausen never fails to introduce new scenarios and character types. This time around readers are introduced to a group of friends eager to see a real zombie. But the inebriated trio soon finds that high-fiving a zombie is not the best idea. And as they deal with the consequences of their actions, more innocents are infected in the process.

And every story eventually ties back to the core group of characters fighting to survive. As more and more storylines merge into theirs, a diverse cast of characters is formed. Each with their strengths contributing to their survival. Although some may be better off left to fend for themselves. Not everyone has the group's survival first and foremost in their mind. Some simply are looking out for themselves.

Dead Meat Day 5 is a story of humanity's downfall. Readers will be immersed in a dystopian world, crumbling around the characters at an increasing rate. And with each passing day, the page count grows as more details are added in to show how damaged the world is becoming. Readers who enjoy fast-paced zombie reads, pick up this series.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Arko The Dark Union

Thank you to U.W. Leo for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!

Arko: The Dark Union is an ambitious book. There are many characters introduced to the reader, described by their race and physical features. And while there was a multicultural cast of characters, the presentation did not quite come off appropriately. There were moments where the characters internal and external dialogue described other races and cultures in clipped tones, edging towards insult instead of a proper introduction. The diverse cast was well intended, but a softer approach to introducing the characters was needed.

That being said, the characters did work well together. Each had their part to play as they made discoveries and began to experiment with the remnants of a lost civilization. And while there are high-tension moments, the characters promote an overall environment of collaboration.

It was a bit difficult to keep all the characters in mind. The writing lived in the moment through telling rather than showing, and the characters did not stand out enough from one another. There were also moments where certain characters would make questionable choices, and rather than contest the plan, the other characters simply agreed even though they held reservations. If there had been a stand between different characters, their personalities and morals would have helped to make them stand apart from one another.

But I did enjoy the science and advanced technology brought into the story. It was fascinating seeing the advancements made and the discovery of what could be done by combining the science of today with the science of the past. And while sometimes the sciences were beyond my understanding, the context they were placed in made them easier to digest.

Arko: The Dark Union is a sci-fi adventure filled with science and dinosaurs. The writing style is fast-paced and plot-driven, focusing on the ever increasing discoveries of the characters. This novel would be best suited for teenagers as some of the ideas and language used may not be suitable for younger readers.