All posts by skyebjenner

High Jinx by Kelley Armstrong

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: High Jinx
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Series: Cursed Luck #2
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Magic, Paranormal fantasy, Urban fantasy
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2021

Thoughts

Kelley Armstrong is one of those brilliant and wonderful authors that I ca never get enough of. She writes wonderful stories with a strong female lead that is generally sassy and all around enjoyable. High Jinx is no exception to this trend. Kennedy is clever and independent but surrounded by the best kind of support and love. She also undergoes some pretty wonderful growth throughout this duology.

The way things were left off in Cursed Luck, Kennedy and Aiden were right on the cusp of something. But curses and fate got in the way. High Jinx picks up that thread and shows you how much these two are meant to be together. Particularly when Aiden reminds Kennedy that the risk is the decision of both of them. It was so much fun to watch this relationship unfold and grow throughout this book.

As with everything, the challenges and battles Kennedy faces in this are even greater than those in Cursed Luck. I love that Vess and Marius make a bit of an appearance in this story, although it is tangential. Mostly, there are other immortal gods running havoc through everyone’s lives. And, Kennedy has so many less avenues to follow in her attempt to, well, stay alive.

High Jinx is a wonderful, fast paced story. It ties up all of the loose ends from Cursed Luck and gives you a happily ever after vibe. It was a fun and enjoyable adventure. One with horrible families, insane gods and just your general nutty mayhem. I loved every moment of it, and I’m really disappointed that this duology is over. Although, Armstrong did manage to finish it all off perfectly.

<- Goddess of Summer LoveMore Kelley Armstrong ->

Image source: Amazon

Dream and Dare by Nic Stone

Book Review, , ,
Overview
A Universe of Wishes: A We Need Diverse Books Anthology by Dhonielle Clayton

Title: Dream and Dare
Author: Nic Stone
In: A Universe of Wishes (Dhonielle Clayton)
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: LGBTQI, Paranormal fantasy
Pace: Slow
Format: Short story
Publisher: Crown
Year: 2020

Thoughts

I love that the title of this short story is actually the names of the two lead characters. And that they are well-suited to their names. I mean, on the surface. They both definitely have elements of the other within their personalities, but mostly, they are very much like what their names imply.

Dream is seen to be the “perfect” wife, but is also into those activities which are considered unfeminine. I love that although she loves beautiful dresses, she also loves to climb trees and explore in these dresses. It’s a reminder that there is no one way of being a woman.

Contrastingly, Dare is tough and faces a lot of the ridicule for being “too masculine”. In fact, she deals with so much of this nonsense that she decides to effectively escape her life. And enact her revenge on all of those idiots who think that she needs “fixing”. It’s heartbreaking that both the girls experience prejudice in one form or another when they are just existing, but Dare’s constant battles are pretty hard to read about at times.

It was a pretty cute short story this one. I mean, they not only manage to find each other with a heavily implied happily ever after. But they also show that they’ve both been dancing around their interest in each other for years… a very cute little short story. And one I look forward to reading again in the future.

<- The Takeback TangoWish ->

Image source: Goodreads

Resonance Surge by Nalini Singh

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Resonance Surge
Author: Nalini Singh
Series: Psy-Changeling Trinity #7
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Dark fantasy, Paranormal romance, Shapeshifters
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2023

Thoughts

This might not necessarily be my favourite Psy-Changeling novel, but it was still, like all of the others, very good. And cute. And just fun in general. I think one of the things that would’ve made me love this and bump it up my “enjoyment list” would’ve been more Arwen and Pasha. I mean, they’re touched upon in so many other Psy-Changeling Trinity books, and then their mating is only kind of mentioned in this novel. Instead, there is far more focus on Yasha (Pasha’s twin). He’s fun, but not as fun as Pasha and Arwen.

As much as I’m obsessed with Pasha and Arwen, I did still enjoy the mating of Yasha and Theo. Plus, Theo’s presence makes you understand a little bit more about Pax (who is kind of cast as a villain throughout the series). I love that although Theo is considered “weak” because of her low power gradient, she is actually incredibly tough. And completely able to kill others due to the way she has shaped her powers. Plus, her toughness carries over to protectiveness of Yasha, and even the bear clan.

The Centres, which are mentioned from the very beginning of the series in Slave to Sensation, are definitely a bit of a boogey man. The fact that Theo’s journey actually provides a bit of an insight into just how terrible these places were. Honestly, they remind me of asylums in the past where the mentally ill are sent to basically die in the shadows. It’s a bit of a reminder about the darkness of our own pasts, and it is pretty dark. Made all that much darker by the abuse and horrors that Theo has faced at the hands of her own father.

The Scarabs are also gaining in their insanity throughout this – a nice parallel to the past insanity of the Centres. In fact, the ending, which was adjacently related to Theo and Yasha, was a bit of a surprise. And made me think that the terrors the Psy are about to face because of the Scarab instability is just going to increase… now I have to wait goodness knows how long for the next book in this amazing series to be released!

<- Storm EchoPrimal Mirror ->

Image source: Amazon

Storm Echo by Nalini Singh

Book Review, , , , ,
Overview

Title: Storm Echo
Author: Nalini Singh
Series: Psy-Changeling Trinity #6
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Dark fantasy, Paranormal romance, Shapeshifters
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2022

Thoughts

I really enjoyed Ivan and Lei’s relationship. It is wonderful and gives you a whole lot of joy as you dive through this story. Yet, their story is also a great way to further drive the discovery of the Architect’s machinations. And also letting you know their identity. All through a twist of fate, and some pretty unique genetics. I’ve been trying to guess just who the Architect is since Silver Silence (the beginning of the Psy-Changeling Trinity), and this instalment in the series actually gave you that answer. Even if it is also about a great couple that I found truly adorable.

Ivan’s history and the way he spent the first few years of his life are really sad. Jax as a blight upon the Psy is mentioned multiple times throughout the whole series, but this is the first book that truly deals with it. Mothers trying their best when they are addicted to drugs isn’t exactly something that’s uncommon (sadly), so it was interesting to have that touched upon in this story. I also found it interesting that this drug use may have influenced his unique gifts. Plus, the way he is able to find a new life for himself also highlights just how amazing the Mercant clan is. And just how truly good they actually are… even if they are also predatory and brutal at the same time.

The SkyElm clan’s story and history unfolds in another Psy-Changeling story (I can’t remember which one). I didn’t realise that there would be more to that story until I realised that Lei was part of this family. Her drive to find justice for her loved ones and heart break at losing them is truly heart wrenching. Particularly when you realise that Lei is a healer. Yet, I love that it brings her in the orbit of some seriously loved DarkRiver characters. And that there is a happy ending to not only her search for justice, but hers and Ivan’s need for a happily ever after.

I have, so far, loved all of the healer romances in this series. Something about being tough and maternal tends to make me really enjoy these story lines. Plus, there’s the fact that although they may be caring and kind, they’re also completely able to kick other people’s asses when they think it’s beneficial. A bit like Lei decides to drag Ivan into the light and realise that he’s not just a killer… whether he likes it or not. The dynamic between the two, whilst different to the other healer partnerships still has some of those similarities. Mainly in the fact that the damn healer is willing to kill themselves for others, so sometimes needs a reminder to just stop and slow down.

As always, I absolutely loved this Nalini Singh novel. Now that I’m almost to the end of the published Psy-Changeling books, it might be time to start doing yet another reread…

<- Last GuardResonance Surge ->

Image source: Amazon

1001 Dark Nights: Bundle One by Shayla Black, Heather Graham, Liliana Hart & Tina Folsom

Book Review, , , , , , ,
Overview

Title: 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle One
Author: Shayla Black, Heather Graham, Liliana Hart & Tina Folsom
In: 1001 Dark Nights: Bundle One (Shayla Black, Heather Graham, Liliana Hart & Tina Folsom)
Rating Out of 5: 3 (On the fence about this one)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary romance, Paranormal romance, Short story collections
Pace: Slow
Format: Anthology, eBook
Year: 2015

Thoughts

Of the four novellas, I actually only enjoyed reading one. And only read one from beginning to end. Yet, it was worth the read, and I will dive into more of these bundles. I mean, there’s nothing wrong with trying something and then just finding that it doesn’t quite work for you.

One of the things I really liked about this anthology is that each of the stories has a bit of steam and romance. All of them have vastly different flavours and it is definitely a good way to dip your toe into not only different authors and series, but also different kinds of romances. I’m getting to a point in my romance reading that I tend to know what I like, but if I was new to the genre? It would be a fantastic way to give things a bit of a try.

I enjoyed reading this anthology, it’s not necessarily anything to rave about, but it was still enjoyable.

<- Silent BiteForever Wicked ->

Image source: Booktopia

Out With a Fang by Jessica Sims

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Out with a Fang
Author: Jessica Sims
Series: Midnight Liasons #2.2
In: The Undead in My Bed (Katie MacAlister, Molly Harper & Jessica Sims)
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal romance, Shapeshifters
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novella
Year: 2012

Thoughts

Alright, so I completely guessed that the vampire on this blind (literally blind) date was going to be her long-lost human love. But, even with knowing that little twist from the beginning, this was still a great novella. I mean, it’s not only two people reconnecting and finally being able to reveal all truths to one another. But it is also a pretty fast-paced story which features a pair of paranormal entities trying really hard not to get themselves killed.

I do enjoy a forced-proximity story. Particularly when there’s a past that the two need to overcome. The fact that this forced-proximity also involved a whole lot of background and violence… I really enjoyed that. And the way that they are finally able to admit their love for one another. Even if it does take a really long time… having said that, there was a whole lot less angst in this story than I was anticipating. Which honestly was kind of pleasant.

It’s always nice to have a strong female leading the charge in a book. The fact that she’s not just a strong lead, but the honest to go apex predator throughout this story just made it that much better. And the constant acknowledgements of just how difficult it can be to date as the top of the food chain… all priceless. And then there’s the fact that she just… beats the crap out of pretty much everyone that dares to cross her path. A fantastic lead that I seriously enjoyed.

Not only was this a really fun and engaging adventure, it also had a wonderful epilogue. The feeling of travel and contentment as they ride off into the sunset is beautiful. It made you realise that there are plenty more adventures to live, but also that this part of their story is nicely complete.

<- VixenSpeed Mating ->

Image source: Amazon

Lucky Star by Susannah Nix

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: Lucky Star
Author: Susannah Nix
Series: Starstruck #4
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2022

Thoughts

This is a nice, cute and easy read. A fairly common (but still awesome trope) about a fake relation becoming something more. I love that they orchestrated this so seamlessly and there wasn’t quite as much angst as expected when they start moving towards something more. There’s a little of it (because otherwise it really wouldn’t be worth the read), but nowhere near as much drama as I expected.

I absolutely love that the lead female in this is honestly a total fan girl. I mean, she’s literally written blogs and fanfiction to him. But, instead of looking at him as the object of her fandom, she actually takes the time to get to know him. I love this switch and the way she is able to see past her enjoyment of his job to who he is as a man. And help him get over the abuses of his past.

Nix manages to beautifully deal with the realities that people (anyone) face when they are overcoming an abusive relationship. It is definitely a difficult journey. One that is still a work in progress at the end of this story. But one that has so much hope and enjoyment for the future. Nix is able to really work to remind you that there are all kinds of abuse, and they happen to EVERYONE. No preconceived notions.

This is yet another sweet and fantastic romance from Nix. It’s fun and easy to read. But also sweet, with just the right level of intensity to it that you can’t help but be obsessed. Plus, there’s also the great reminder that everyone has their hurdles to overcome. And relationships are all about finding a way move toward a better future together.

<- Rising StarMore Susannah Nix ->

Image source: Amazon

Stripped Down by Eva Moore

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: Stripped Down
Author: Eva Moore
Series: Exposed Dreams #2
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2018

Thoughts

There were certain aspects of this story (primarily Natalie’s past) from the Christmas short story Decked Out. Yet, this still fleshed out a lot of their characters. And was a very fun and engaging romance. It was one of those easy read romances that was cute and fun. But it also focused on the fact that both Enzo and Natalie had to work on themselves and their own hangups to truly be good for one another.

There is something extra special about single parent romances. I think because it is never just about the parent, and there is a whole other aspect of trusting that just isn’t there when you aren’t a parent. And in this story, I love that Enzo is forming a bond and relationship with daisy. Not because it makes things better with Natalie (if anything it makes her go off her rocker even more), but because of Daisy in and of herself.

Where Enzo is constantly working at improvement throughout this story, it does take Natalie an annoyingly long time to move past her own insecurities. But, when she is finally called on her crap and chooses to grow up a little, it is seriously glorious. And a bit of a reminder that sometimes asking for help isn’t actually such a bad thing after all…

Although all of Enzo’s actions come from a really nice place, they definitely are not as considerate as they should be. It’s fantastic that he finds a way to move on from this. I mean, its all well and good to want to solve the problems of someone you love. But if you don’t actually take the time to learn HOW to, it’s really just you acting in a fairly entitled way. Or at least, that’s how I felt upon reading this. And through some of my own experiences.

Ultimately, Enzo and Natalie learn to process their own damage and create a new reality for themselves. At the centre of all of this is the idea that communication is key. You can’t just assume you know what someone else is feeling – you have to ask them.

<- Opened UpDecked Out ->

Image source: Kobo

Opened Up by Eva Moore

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: Opened Up
Author: Eva Moore
Series: Exposed Dreams #1
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Contemporary, Contemporary romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2018

Thoughts

This is a great, fun and sweet contemporary romance. I mean, it’s pretty easy and kind of obvious how it will all turn out. But it’s still a fun adventure. The fact that Sophia and Adrian have been seriously and ridiculously attracted to each other since they were kids just helps to add to the fun nature of this story. There’s a history, but not one that is filled with angst. Which gives the past of knowing one another, without anything to make up for.

Sophia’s constant struggles to strike out on her own and be appreciated by her father drive this story spectacularly. That, partnered with her own insecurities help to show just how much getting in one’s own head can mess with you. Plus, quite frankly, her father is a total knob. I mean, willingly leaving your daughter in a dead end position and taking advantage of her? Purposely throwing a spanner in the works of her relationship? All ridiculously entitled and horrible actions. I love that Sophia is able to overcome this nonsense and find her own happily ever after.

I love how this is a story not just about romance and family romance. But also how three siblings (and their parents) work towards surviving their older brother’s death. Certainly, many of the issues that Sophia struggles to overcome are built around the compromises the family made to deal with this death. And, once Sophia finds her own two feet, it’ll be interesting in the future books to see how her remaining two siblings are able to negotiate the same difficulties.

I love that, alongside Sophia trying to forge her own reality and life, Adrian is actually trying to do the same thing. He’s a little bit less flexible and giving to others than Sophia. But, it’s still nice that both characters are trying to find a way to be better and create a life that they can be proud of. When it all comes together at the end of this story, it’s nice to know that they do succeed. Having said that, Adrian’s narrow-mindedness in his pursuit makes him incredibly callous and kind of cruel in moments.

This was a great romance, not just about how to build a future life together, but also how to encompass your own goals in this. Plus, there are some incredibly insane family dynamics throughout this story. Ones that were very fun to negotiate. And made me grateful for my own dysfunctional clan…

<- More Eva MooreStripped Down ->

Image source: Amazon

Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr

Book Review, , , , ,
Overview
Faery Tales and Nightmares

Title: Merely Mortal
Author: Melissa Marr
Series: Wicked Lovely #5.5
In: Faery Tales & Nightmares (Melissa Marr)
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Dark fantasy, Fae, Paranormal fantasy
Pace: Medium
Format: Short story
Publisher: HarperCollins
Year: 2012

Thoughts

Again, I probably should have read a whole lot more of the Wicked Lovely series before diving into this short story. Since it kind of has a bit of an epilogue feel to the whole series. Yet, even with having pretty much no context to the story, I still thoroughly enjoyed this.

Keenan and Donia are a great couple and definitely a little star crossed. Which is obvious from the moment you meet them both in Wicked Lovely. The fact that they’re finally getting their happily ever after was really nice. And a good way to tidy up what I’m sure are some lingering questions.

Aside from the spoilers and the romance, I love how the fae deal with the reality of humans catching them on camera. And that Donia is the one who stops her court from just going and killing everyone… something that, I feel, is kind of important in many ways. It is also such a creative way to deal with the issues of today and how Big Brother is always watching.

This was a short and sweet story, one that involves happily riding off into the sunset together. On a chilly, wintery night. Way too adorable and sweet.

<- Unexpected FamilyFaery Tales & Nightmares ->

Image source: HarperCollins Publishers