All posts by skyebjenner

The Girl With No Name by Chris Marie Green

Book Review, , , , ,

Overview

The Girl With No NameTitle: The Girl With No Name
Author: Chris Marie Green
Series: Vampire Babylon #6.4
In: Kicking It (Faith Hunter & Kalayna Price)
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Paranormal fantasy, Vampires
Pace: Fast
Format: Short story
Publisher: Roc
Year: 2013
5th sentence, 74th page: At first, he smile welcomed me.

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Synopsis

Chris Marie Green brings you an urban fantasy novelette that’s full of paranormal thrills and exhilarating action!

A young woman wakes up in a strange hotel room in New Orleans with no memory of who she is, where she’s been, or what she’s doing there. All she has are a pair of boots that she can’t seem to take off. As she takes steps to uncover her identity, she realizes that she might’ve stolen the shoes, and the bad-boy psychic she’s enlisted could be luring her into the clutches of a powerful, very ticked-off backwoods sorceress who wants them back….

Thoughts

A lot of stories rely on a character that is completely removed from their familial life. Whether it’s an orphan, someone who has been removed from their clan, or they’ve watched everything around them die and go up in flames, most good characters have nothing they can return to in their past. They either have nothing to lose, or everything. Lily in The Girl with No Name takes this one step further. This story is a literal journey of self-discovery – a girl who is unable to remember her own name, let alone her past.

The nature magic employed in this short story is phenomenal – it combines the giving of mother earth with the need for payment. After all, nothing is free. This unique combination of healing, giving and taking payment all at the same time led to a twist that I didn’t expect. Always something nice in a short story, I love when you are surprised by a plot, and I’m incredibly eager to see what this author can do to a full-length novel.

<- Stolen Goods Review The Devil’s Left Boot Review ->
Image source: Goodreads

Vanish by Tess Gerritsen

Book Review, , ,

Overview

VanishTitle: Vanish
Author: Tess Gerritsen
Series: Rizzoli & Isles #5
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Crime, Strong women
Pace: Medium
Format: Novel
Publisher: Transworld Publishers
Year: 2006
5th sentence, 74th page: ‘I’m here to visit a patient,’ said Maura.

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Synopsis

Stare death in the face

Forensice Pathologist Maura Isles unzips a body bag and gets the fright of her life. The corpse opens its eyes. The woman is rushed to hospital, where she murders a guard and seizes hostages, including a heavily pregnant Detective Jane Rizzoli.

No one knows who this woman is, or what she wants. Only Jane, trapped with the madwoman, can solve the mystery.

If she survives the night…

Thoughts

Even after reading the blurb, this story was NOTHING like what I expected. Which was wonderful. Rizzoli’s soon-to-be-born child and the way in which she copes with this is a heart rending storyline that travels along beautifully with the overarching tale of conspiracy, mystery and hostage taking. Again, Gerritsen’s use of altering points of views brings this story to life in a way that makes it completely impossible to put down.

The conspiracies, murder and hostage situation that is the main story had me chewing on my fingernails as I turned each page. Literally! The fact that Jane is forced to go through this whilst still pregnant, and Gabriel and Moira’s struggle to accept what is happening just makes the story all the more distressing. It is much easier to see their love for Rizzoli as they continuously lose their minds at her entrapment. Likewise, it is wonderful to see how much Gabriel truly loves his wife – their marriage is not just about her pregnancy, but also built upon their love and care for one another.

As someone who is often asked when I’m going to have children (and is also interested in pursuing her own career), the idea of having a baby is quite honestly terrifying. Rizzoli’s echo of this and her insecurity are a great reminder that there are many people who feel this way. Her confusion at motherhood and the fact that she is convinced that she is doing something wrong is one of the most reassuring things I have read in a story in a long time. It is a reminder that not all women are naturally maternal, and although Jane finally finds her own speed with motherhood, it does take a while for her to feel comfortable in this position.

<- Body Double Review The Mephisto Club Review ->
Image source: Goodreads

Hecate’s Golden Eye by P.N. Elrod

Book Review, , , ,
Overview
strange-brew

Title: Hecate’s Golden Eye
Author: P.N. Elrod
Series: Vampire Files #11.5
In: Strange Brew (P.N. Elrod)
Rating Out of 5: 3.5 (Liked this)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Vampires
Pace: Fast
Format: Short story
Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
Year: 2009
5th sentence, 74th page: It had a hell of a lot more force than a bare fist.

Synopsis

Sometimes you need to steal something to return it to its rightful owners…

Thoughts

I didn’t really know what to think about this story – I liked the idea of a moral private investigator with a vampire sidekick, but some of the suave present in past stories by P.N. Elrod is missing from this short tale. However, the voice of the narrative helped to bring me back to the story when I wasn’t entirely sure it was what I was in the mood for. The tone of the tale had just the right balance of cheerful self-deprecation and intrigue to keep me interested in the chief protagonist and his quick journey into re-stealing a gem for its rightful owner.

The idea of multiple kinds of retribution to the “bad guys” throughout this story left me with a warm feeling at the end of the tale. From the long con to out and out thievery, the selfishness of those perpetuating the crimes onto others had consequences which left me smiling at the end of the tale. It’s always nice when the good guys win, and the bad guys are punished in some way, shape or form.

<- Vegas OddsBacon ->

Image source: Goodreads

Snow Job by Carole Nelson Douglas

Book Review, , , , ,

Overview

hex-appealTitle: Snow Job
Author: Carole Nelson Douglas
Series: Delilah Street, Paranormal Investigator #5.1
In: Hex Appeal (P.N. Elrod)
Rating Out of 5: 3.5 (Liked this)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Paranormal fantasy, Urban fantasy
Pace: Medium
Format: Short story
Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
Year: 2012
5th sentence, 74th page: Lilith was amping up the vibration and sound system into heart-attack mode.

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Synopsis

I love this repetition of the tale of Adam, Eve and Lilith with a much more modern spin on it.

Thoughts

The use of the tale of Adam, Eve and Lilith was a unique way to approach of tale of paranormal fantasy. A lot of mythologies and beliefs seem to inform fantasy stories, but very few utilise the Christian faith and stories to do so. The use of Lilith, and even the name Delilah have its roots in Christianity and the use of the two sisters’ names in their characterisation was a great reminder of the importance in naming one’s characters.

The premises in this story were fantastic, and the paranormal reality in which Delilah negotiates her reality a brilliant multifaceted setting. However, having not read the rest of the series, it was a little difficult to really immerse myself in the story.

<- Holly’s Balm Review Outside the Box Review ->
Image source: Succubus

The Parlor by Lucienne Diver

Book Review, , , , , ,

Overview

Kicking ItTitle: The Parlor
Author: Lucienne Diver
Series: The Latter-Day Olympians #3.5
In: Kicking It (Faith Hunter & Kalayna Price)
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Mythology, Paranormal fantasy, Strong women
Pace: Medium
Format: Short story
Publisher: Roc
Year: 2013
5th sentence, 74th page: I’d find out soon enough.

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Synopsis

Tori takes what she thinks is going to be a simple job, and runs up against another member of the Olympian family.

Thoughts

I love to read about mythologies reimagined for the modern day, and this was an excellent way in which it was done. Where Riordan takes Greek mythology and spins it so that teenagers have a place in the world, Diver gives the tales of Olympus a much more adult and sensual twist. A tale of Apollo, Arachne and gladiators, there really isn’t much more that you could ask for in a short story inspired by the Gods of Olympus.

There were a lot of great things in this story, and I loved the heroine, she was tough, able to say no to a God, and wanted to do the good thing. However, the part of this story that I can’t get out of my head is the silver, reflective hot pants and knee-high boot get up that Tori is forced to wear when she goes undercover. Reflective hot pants. A thought to leave you with for the day.

<- Crazy in the Blood Review Rise of the Blood Review ->
Image source: Penguin

Buying Trouble by Karen Chance

Book Review, , , , , ,
Overview
Buying Trouble

Title: Buying Trouble
Author: Karen Chance
Series: Dorina Basarab #1.1, Cassandra Palmer World #9
In: On the Prowl (Patricia Briggs)
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Dark fantasy, Fae, Paranormal romance
Pace: Fast
Format: Novella
Publisher: Berkley
Year: 2007
5th sentence, 74th page: The dragon was Tanet, my newly discovered brother.

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Synopsis

Claire just wants to keep out of trouble. But that isn’t always easy when you’re a mage with the extremely unusual ability to block all magic around you. And when Claire’s sleazy boss decides Claire herself is the most valuable rarity to sell at a magical auction, trouble finds her. Now, her only hope for survival is to trust a mysterious and handsome stranger, a Fey Lord named Heidar. As their pursuers close in, there’s one thing for sure, savior or threat, Heidar can show Claire things she never imagined in this world, and in herself. . .

Thoughts

This story took a lot of unexpected turns – first, the journey started at an auction house, then Clare finds out that she’s actually up for auction, and then she finds out more about her true heritage. All in all, the combination of these facts created a tumulus ride which spanned a number of beautifully constructed settings. The fact that the alliances and loyalties of the obvious love interest within the story were vague and difficult to pin down helped to add to the unpredictable, fast-paced track of this novella.

The use of first-person in telling this tale helped to place me in the slightly uncomfortable shoes of Claire. Mostly due to her status in the magical world and the constant danger which her powers place her in. However, the irresistible pull she feels towards her male counterpart and her fear and frustration at being forced to flee are incredibly potent emotions that are stunningly displayed through her own words. Her description of her emotions, confusion and thoughts made me feel incredibly connected to this slightly unorthodox lead, something which I love when reading any story.

Although slavery isn’t supposed to occur anymore, the use of Claire as a pawn in overall political games and the willingness of others to sell her reek of a lack of women’s rights in this world – even when slavery is supposed to be abolished. Even her newly discovered family appear to be politically inclined, although at least they are grateful for her presence. It is a reminder that although overt ownership of women isn’t present in today’s society, there is still a sense of ownership and usage over women who can prove to be useful.

The thing that I loved most about this novella was the conclusion of this tale. It leaves the story open for more journeying into the world of Claire and the Dorina Basarab series, but also hints at a ‘happily ever after’ for Claire.

<- InhumanMona Lisa Betwining ->

Image source: Goodreads

Vegas Odds by Karen Chance

Book Review, , , , ,
Overview
strange-brew

Title: Vegas Odds
Author: Karen Chance
Series: Cassandra Palmer #4.4, Cassandra Palmer World #14
In: Strange Brew (P.N. Elrod)
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Dark fantasy, Paranormal romance
Pace: Fast
Format: Short story
Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
Year: 2009
5th sentence, 74th page: They hit the floot to avoid the bullets Cyrus was letting fly, making them perfect targets for a second potion – one designed to induce unconsciousness.

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Synopsis

Lia manages to beat the vegas odds in this amazingly fun and active short story.

Thoughts

From the very first sentence of this short story, you are thrown into the middle of the conflict. Lia’s self-berating and gradual realisation of the culprits in her attack help to add to this immediate sense of drama and action. The twists and turns of the plot are impossible to predict as her inner strength and moxie are revealed. To me, this is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the story – once the cause of one point of conflict is revealed, a number of other problems quickly arise.

The idea of Lia as a half-breed and the subsequent stigma and segregation which she experiences is a great reminder of that which anyone who is different tends to experience. In some cases, people who come from two starkly different cultural and racial backgrounds aren’t fully accepted by either group of people. The pain and discomfort that Lia feels in her lack of acceptance, and even her inability to fully trust her boyfriend (who obviously loves her) to accept her speaks to the pain which such a discrimination can cause a person.

The showiness of this story beautifully matches what I picture of Vegas, at least as much as I can on the other side of the world. Even the Trials by which the war mages must take their new place in society is a showy affair with lots of drama and flash to make a simple point and test. The subterfuge throughout the story helps to match this, and even Lia’s own personality seems to fit into the idea of show and flash throughout the tale.

<- Death Warmed OverHecate’s Golden Eye ->

Image source: Goodreads

The Novice by Trudi Canavan

Book Review, , , , ,

Overview

The NoviceTitle: The Novice
Author: Trudi Canavan
Series: The Black Magician Trilogy #2, The Black Magician World #4
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Australian authors, Fantasy, Mages
Pace: Fast
Format: Novel
Publisher: Orbit
Year: 2002
5th sentence, 74th page: I’ll leave our family scandals to you.

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Synopsis

Imardin is a city of dark intrigues and deadly politics, where those who wield magic wield power. Into this established order has blundered a young street-girl with extraordinary magical gifts. Adopted by the Magicians’ Guild, her life is changed for ever – but for better or for worse?

Sonea knew that she’d face a tough time training within the Magicians’ Guild, but she little realised the level of animosity she would face from her fellow novices. The sons and daughters of the most powerful families in the realm, her classmates seem determined to see her fail – at whatever cost. But in accepting the protection of the guild’s high lord, Sonea may have embraced a far bleaker fate. For High Lord Akkarin harbours a secret that is far darker than his magician’s robes.

Thoughts

I hate, hate, hate bullying – in all of its forms. And the bullying that characterises most of Sonea’s journey throughout The Novice, made me feel physically ill, and incredibly angry. Yet, this look inside the depths to which some people’s prejudices will sink made this an amazing story to read. The backdrop of confusion and fear that Sonea feels at becoming a magician, and knowing the High Lord’s dirty little secret (which is not so little) help to further this amazing storyline. The moment I finished this novel, I cracked the spine of The High Lord in excitement. After all, while Sonea is able to overcome some of the difficulties of being a novice, the greatest threat to her existence is still around.

The Novice highlights the differences that people feel and show around those of a different social standing. Almost as though where you are born and where you come from are choices. Especially when it is considered that those of the higher families are “bought down” by any and all association with a slum girl. This prejudice, although obviously expanded upon throughout The Novice is present in all of our lives, and Sonea’s ability to rise above this and not stoop to the levels which are expected of her are admirable. But, it is easy to see that even those who have no firsthand knowledge of her and ability to judge her integrity, are willing to believe blatant lies, just because she is of a lower social standing. The fear mongering that is constantly taking place throughout the story lead to a number of horrible, cringe worthy incidents that made my blood boil. Yet, throughout it all, it is Sonea’s willingness to stay true to herself and honest that helps her to triumph in the end.

The complex characters throughout The Novice make it easy for everyone to relate to at least one character throughout the story. Although I was mostly interested in Sonea’s plight, Dannyl’s journey of discovery quickly drew me in. Not only is he constantly searching for new knowledge in the name of research, but he is ultimately forced to face a part of himself that has been long buried. Again, it is the prejudices of others that enforced this journey to be necessary. And I can’t wait to see how the rest of it unfolds in The High Lord.

 <- The Magician’s Guild Review The High Lord Review ->
Image source: Amazon

The Mad Apprentice by Trudi Canavan

Book Review, , , , , ,

Overview

Legends of Australian FantasyTitle: The Mad Apprentice
Author: Trudi Canavan
Series: The Black Magician Trilogy #0.7, The Black Magician World #2
In: Legends of Australian Fantasy (Jack Dann & Jonathan Strahan)
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Australian authors, Fantasy, Mages
Pace: Fast
Format: Novella
Publisher: Harper Collins Australia
Year: 2010
5th sentence, 74th page: Somehow she forced her weary legs to take her to the rooms Tagin had chosen for her.

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Synopsis

The Mad Apprentice follows the story of Lord Tagin, and his sister, Lady Indria. It narrates how he learnt Black Magic without the approval of his mentor, who he later killed. As the story develops, Tagin starts killing every magician who tried to stop him, along with many non-magicians and animals alike.

Thoughts

Throughout The Black Magician Trilogy, black magic is seen as something horrible. Indeed, throughout the majority of books centring on mages and witchcraft, the idea of black magic is an antithema. After all, the idea of taking someone else’s life force to further your own means is quite a horrible idea. And, so it is with Trudi Canavan’s Black Magician World The Mad Apprentice investigates what happens when someone unstable harness such a questionable wealth of power.

This story was going to have a bad ending right from the beginning. Indria’s fear of her brother, and discomfort at his very presence in the first page hint at underlying issues that bode ill. His admittance of murder and Indria’s obviously misguided belief that she is able to steer him to a saner choice just build upon the feeling of disquiet.

There is something that is eerie about people with power, who appear sane, but have a kind of madness inside. The idea that a mad man can be a highly intelligent and capable one is all the more terrifying. After all, this is what serial killers and murders (such as Tagin) tend to be like – intelligent, and more than a little mad.

 <- The Magician’s Apprentice Review The Magician’s Guild Review ->
Image source: Trudi Canavan

Bigfoot on Campus by Jim Butcher

Book Review, , , , , ,

Overview

hex-appealTitle: Bigfoot on Campus
Author: Jim Butcher
Series: The Dresden Files #11.9, Bigfoot Trilogy #3
In: Hex Appeal (P.N. Elrod)
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Crime, Paranormal fantasy, Urban fantasy, Wizards
Pace: Fast
Format: Short story
Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
Year: 2011
5th sentence, 74th page: We walked in silence for several moments, until Connie finally said, “He’s not an angry person.

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Synopsis

Bigfoot on Campus is a short story in The Dresden Files series by Jim Butcher. It is set between Turn Coat and Changes. It was originally published in Hex Appeal, and later included in Working for Bigfoot.

Thoughts

I don’t know if it’s because I’m in University, or if there is something about the potential that it represents, but any story set here tends to grab my attention. This, combined with the young love between Connie and Irwin is such a nice reminder of the potential of these young years of discovery. This was also my first introduction into the Dresden Files and the writings of Jim Butcher, and a very welcome one at that.

The flicking between two time periods in a story can sometimes be a little clunky and hard to follow in short stories. However, Butcher did this brilliantly – the tone and positioning of Dresden was different enough that the transition was beautifully obvious. The cops’ blatant disbelief in all of the things that go bump in the night helped to further this contrast. The tale is told in a completely believable and relatable way, with a slightly dubious man querying everything that he was told.

The explanation of Bigfoot and the reasons why people never see such a creature that is strongly believed in today made this story seem all the more realistic. It’s always nice when the fantastical nature of mythologies can be married with our modern life to create an almost believable literary reality.

<- Retribution Clause Review Holly’s Balm Review ->
Image source: Succubus