Tag Archives: Paranormal Fantasy

Filthy Beast by Liza Street

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Filthy Beast
Author: Liza Street
Series: Junkyard Shifters #1
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Paranormal romance, Shapeshifters
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2020

Thoughts

I found it a bit difficult reading about Lena’s fight and fleeing of her pack. I mean, entitled men alone are creepy. But Shaw and his obsession with her family… man, I was glad from the very beginning that it was the catalyst for her escaping. It’s also an interesting way to start off the series – a woman being stuck in a purgatory as her punishment for declining Shaw’s advances. Honestly, there is nothing scarier to me than a man who feels entitled to a woman’s body.

At the beginning of this story, I found Carter to be crazy angry. I mean, like, off the charts angry. But, then as his story unfolds, you kind of get it. It’s still not a great character flaw, but it becomes understandable fairly quickly, which makes him a sympathetic lead. It was kind of sad though that when he finally starts to heal and forgive the past, even more tragedy hits.

This story was a little bit too lust driven for me to fall crazily in love with the story and the characters. But I did love that Lena does tell Carter off. Repeatedly. And with gusto. Alright, she succumbs to the lust frequently, but she also manages to hold her own and have a sense of self that is admirable. Particularly when she is stuck in a situation not of her own making. One that her inner strength helps her to survive.

Although Shaw was a fantastic and kind of terrifying villain, I kind of wanted more of an explanation to his obsession. I mean, he’s repeatedly told to be obsessed with Lena and her bloodline, but there is no explanation of why. Plus, he obviously had a plan by coming into the junkyard and preying upon Lena. But, surely he also had a plan to get out… again, I feel like there needed to be a whole lot more explanation. Maybe this will come to light later within the series…

Filthy Beast is a great introduction to the Junkyard Shifters and just how the Junkyard works. I love that it’s a holding pen for criminals, but there are already some serious questions as to how ‘criminal’ many of these characters are. And I can’t wait to meet more of them as they fall in love!

<- Filthy VandalFilthy Wolf ->

Image source: Amazon

The Dragon Conspiracy by Lisa Shearin

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: The Dragon Conspiracy
Author: Lisa Shearin
Series: SPI Files #2
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Strong women, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2015

Thoughts

I honestly forgot how much I loved Mac, Ian and the SPI team – it’s been quite a while since I have had the joy of diving into this series. And now I’m regretting the massive break I took from reading this series. I mean, they are just such a fun group and I loved getting to know them better. Plus, there’s the fact that they are constantly in a battle to save the world. Although I love Mac and Ian, I still think that Yasha may be my favourite – there is something wonderful about his special brand of insanity.

I honestly spent a lot of this story trying to figure out just how all of the machinations fit together. There were so many surprises and double crosses throughout. Honestly, every time I thought I had a grasp on just what was going on, something happened to make me do a full 180. It was constantly surprising, and I loved trying to get my head around what was going on. Which is kind of amazing, because now, when I have the privilege of rereading this, I will have so many more things to uncover!

The idea of seven diamonds and their potential for mass destruction was fun from the very beginning. And then, there’s Victor Kain, the dragon, and his thirst for revenge. The combination of weapons of mass destruction and a psychotic dragon on the rampage meant that this was a really difficult book to put down. Particularly since the more you read, the more horrifying Kain actually was.

I loved that there was a number of potential couples set up after all of the mayhem and insanity of this story. A few I could completely see coming, but then there were some that were quite surprising. I also love that although there are hints of a potential relationship between Mac and Ian, she is moving forward with Rake. He’s kind of difficult and a little dreamy, so I really enjoyed the idea of getting to know him more. Particularly as this ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, in which Ian and Mac are both moving forwards in their romances, but no idea just how.

Now I can’t wait to read more SPI Files series. I mean, Mac and Ian have a great partnership, and they are obviously situated well to battle evil. Plus The Dragon Conspiracy is setting up a major evil plot in the background. And I can’t wait to see how insidious it is…

<- The Grendel AffairThe Brimstone Deception ->

Image source: Amazon

Candle Me With Care by Mandy M. Roth

Book Review, , ,
Overview

Title: Candle Me With Care
Author: Mandy M. Roth
Series: Bewitchingly Ever After #3.5
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Paranormal romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novella
Year: 2023

Thoughts

The idea of Beatrice and her accidental family curse was kind of hilarious, and seriously intrigued me. I mean, the curse in and of itself was a fun and interesting one. But, add in the fact that their grandmother was the one who accidentally cursed them? Kind of brilliant. And hilarious. And super, super awkward.

I love this this is a novella, second chance romance. Unlike some of the other books in this series, the couple already know each other and are pretty quick to work back towards one another. There is a little bit more angst than some of the second chance romances that I’ve read recently, but I kind of liked it.

Not going to lie, I picked up this novella partly because I love any story with a pun in the title. Plus, the fact that Beatrice is not only a candle maker, but one who makes candles for the paranormal and a supernatural town was even better. I loved making candles as a kid, so I kind of loved that someone could make an entire career out of it.

There was so much history in this story, and I can’t wait to read more of this series. I mean, this has already introduced Mandy M. Roth to my shelves. And now I have a whole new series to read…

<- Do You Really Want to Haunt MeMore Mandy M. Roth ->

Image source: Mandy M. Roth

Harpy’s Mission by Laura Greenwood

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Harpy’s Mission
Author: Laura Greenwood
Series: Supernatural Retrieval Agency #1
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Paranormal fantasy, Paranormal romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2021

Thoughts

Harper the harpy was a fun character, and I love that she’s starting out at the Supernatural Retrieval Agency, I could learn alongside her. There’s also a lot of hints about the fact that Harper is entering a corrupt system. And that maybe she’s been hired for not so above board reasons. From thr very first moment, Harper the harpy and her new job completely drew me in. And now I can’t wait to read Harpy’s Escape.

Greenwood’s writing is always an easy read, and I enjoy the short adventures that I get to go on. Harpy’s Mission is no different. It’s an amazing adventure from beginning to end, with a lot of drama and action thrown in. There’s also the hints of a slowburn relationship with Elias from early on in the story. Now not only do I want to know all of the insand outs of the crime world run by the Big Bad, but also how Harper’s relationship with Elias unfolds.

Not going to lie, I’m really wanting Harper’s boss to get his comeuppance. He’s definitely a horrible human being, and I want to know if he’s actually evil, or just an ass. I’m hoping that he’s just an egotistical red herring, because I just want to see him demoted, but I suppose I have to read the rest of the story to find out.

Harpy’s Mission is the beginning of yet another enjoyable Greenwood story. One that I, as usual, look forward to reading again in the future. Particularly as her works are an easy departure from reality.

<- More Laura GreenwoodHarpy’s Escape ->

Image source: Amazon

Wake the Dead by Laura Greenwood

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Wake the Dead
Author: Laura Greenwood
Series: Necromancer Council #1
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Necromancers, Paranormal fantasy
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2021

Thoughts

I wasn’t quite expecting this story to be as intense as it was – mostly because most of Greenwood’s novels so far haven’t been that emotionally wrought. And although it was a change of pace, I did really enjoy it. It was particularly emotionally wrought in the moments when you realise just what Cissy is recovering from – I mean, she has a pretty traumatic recent past.

I love that this story is the beginning of Cissy and her team reconfiguring the necromancer council. Not only is this a story that’s based right on the precipice of change – but also a story which is about people trying to regain their identity. In this case, it’s a group of necromancers trying to rejig others’ opinions of them and the driver for change. I can’t wait to see, not only the things they come up against, but also how they manage to reconfigure their own identities.

The amount of information about necromancers and how their magic works was brilliant. I had a total information overload, and I kind of loved it. It’s fun when you not only get really attached to a character and their battles, but also get a whole lot of information and world-building. It was nice to find another facet of the mind of Greenwood, and the powers that inform the world that I enjoyed reading about.

I’m absolutely dying to dive into Curse the Dead. I can’t wait to see how Cissy continues to make waves in her world and overcome the trauma of the past. Plus, I can’t wait to find out more about the horrible things that go bump in the night, and how they are willing to fight them.

<- More Laura GreenwoodCurse the Dead ->

Image source: Dymocks

First Time’s a Charm by Laura Greenwood

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: First Time’s a Charm
Author: Laura Greenwood
Series: Grimalkin: Kittens #1
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Paranormal fantasy, Witches
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2019

Thoughts

This was a fun and cute coming of age and university story. Or at least, the beginning of one. Then, there’s the whole multiple men, one woman angle which is kind of fun. Mona is definitely trying to come to terms with the changes in her life, particularly the loss of the extent of her powers. It definitely made me reflect on my times at university and the amount of change that I went through.

I love that Mona’s curse is constantly conjuring kittens. I mean, of all the ways to be cursed, it’s definitely a cute approach. And, the byproduct isn’t all bad, although sure to be costly. I enjoy that even though she’s cursed and has an embarrassing side effect to her magic, somehow in producing kittens, Mona is able to find her feet and regain her confidence.

There are three potential romances throughout this story. And, although I’m pretty sure that Mona is going to end up with all three of them. There’s the TA, Ryan and Caspian. Personally, I’m liking Ryan best because I love the whole friends to lovers trope. And then there’s the fact that Caspian is most likely her mother’s ex best friend’s child. Which is going to be interesting. And that’s not even with the complications that his stepsister brings to the board. I actually can’t wait to see how this aspect unfolds – and I’m not someone who is often into reverse harem books.

For all of the joy of Mona and her harem of men, I actually want more Daphne than anything. She’s kind of hilarious and a truly loyal friend. I always love characters that emphasise the power of female friendships. And I’m absolutely enjoying her ability to be supportive to Mona. I’m not sure If I’m looking forward to Mona kicking butt in the future or Daphne supporting her more…

<- Curses Start SomewhereSecond Time’s a Curse ->

Image source: Amazon

Curses Start Somewhere by Laura Greenwood

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Curses Start Somewhere
Author: Laura Greenwood
Series: Grimalkin: Kittens #0.5
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Paranormal fantasy, Witches
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Short story
Year: 2019

Thoughts

One of the things I’m loving about Greenwood is that her stories are a really quick and fun read. There is enough substance to be enjoyable, but not so much to big me down. Having said that, the negative feelings in this were scarily familiar. The whole idea that your best friend in the world suddenly turns on you through misplaced jealousy. And how that will kind of scar you for life.

The familiar feelings of losing a friendship might not have been fun, but I’m now intrigued to start the rest of the series. Because, of course you know that this weirdly placed jealousy curse is going to land in the next generation. And now I can’t wait to see how. And how I’m sure the grimoire created will have some kind of place within.

Even though it was kind of clear from the title and the very beginning what would happen, that eventual separation of friendship was still painful. As someone who has experienced it herself, I swear it’s worse than a break up. And I love that even in an easy read, Greenwood is still able to teat into your emotions.

What a fun way to start a series (in that whole not fun, emotional way). I can’t wait to find out more!

<- More Laura GreenwoodFirst Time’s a Charm ->

Image source: Goodreads

Unfortunate Decrees and Iced Coffees by Laura Greenwood

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Unfortunate Decrees and Iced Coffees
Author: Laura Greenwood
Series: Cauldron Coffee Shop #0.5
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Paranormal fantasy, Paranormal romance
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2021

Thoughts

This was such an adorable and fun second chance romance. And, I really like that although the couple split when they were younger, there were ultimately no hard feelings. It made this story so much sweeter and cuter. Plus, it meant, that although I was totally barracking for the couple, I could focus a little more on the archaeological mystery.

This was a nice little introduction to another spin-off series in the world of Greenwood. I like that it mentions Mona (from First Time’s a Charm). Plus, it introduced the Cauldron Coffee Shop. A fantastic way to introduce readers to the world and some lovely and loveable characters.

I love that there is the mystery of the giant stone and all of the mayhem that follows. But that it doesn’t actually get solved. I mean, I love a good conclusion as does everyone else, but I also love when things are a little open ended and unsolved. This did so beautifully and made me want to know more about the different magical artifacts that people come across in Greenwood’s writing.

There is a lot of crossover in this story, and multitudes of world building. It’s why I have so many of Greenwood’s stories on my TBR at the moment – they are all wonderfully interconnected and built wonderfully.

<- More Laura GreenwoodPumpkin Spice and All Things Nice ->

Image source: Goodreads

Enduring Magic by T.M. Cromer

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Enduring Magic
Author: T.M. Cromer
Series: Thorne Witches: Happily Ever Afters #1
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Paranormal romance, Witches
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novella
Year: 2023

Thoughts

I honestly wish that I’d read Summer Magic before reading this, but sadly, it’s on Kindle Unlimited, and I don’t currently have access to it. Which is seriously disappointing, so I’ll just have to wait and hope. Summer and Coop are a great couple, and I really want to learn more about how they got together, and all of the challenges that are alluded to within Enduring Magic.

I really enjoyed Summer and Coop as a couple, but I mostly loved how this short story talks about the monumental shift that you go through when you become parents. I mean, I’ve recently been through that myself. And, although I had a little longer to get settled into my relationship, there are still days that feel… unreal and unsettled. I’ve gone from being a single person to being someone’s mum. Cromer really did this unsettled feeling of displacement and love complete and total justice.

Although I loved all of the relationship dynamic and adjustment within this, I was completely and stupidly in love with Summer’s familiar – he is a total and utter thug. He was freaking hilarious, and I just want more and more of him! Absolutely adorable. Plus, Summer’s father, Alistair, is incredibly dodgy and manipulative. But I kind of liked his version of dodgy…

<- More T.M. CromerBoundless Magic ->

Image source: Goodreads

Etiquette & Espionage by Gail Carriger

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Etiquette & Espionage
Author: Gail Carriger
Series: Finishing School #1
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Historical fiction, Paranormal fantasy, Steampunk
Pace: Medium
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2013

Thoughts

I absolutely adored the idea of a steampunk finishing school of espionage and assassination. The fact that it was also a floating school that had a werewolf and vampire in attendance… unforgettable. Sophrina is also a fantastic and lovely leading lady who I wish I’d met when I was younger. She’s intelligent, caring and completely relatable. Everything about this story from beginning to end was brilliant and I can’t wait to read more of Carriger’s world!

Sophrina was one of the favourite female leads I’ve read in a while. She’s not described as beautiful or ugly. Indeed, she’s just average looking, I love that she’s not ugly or beautiful but actually normal looking. And, more than anything, it is her inner beauty that people fall in love with. I love that she is willing to try things that others aren’t willing to. And has a problem solving mind that loves to explore the world around her.

Soap and the sooties are a great cast of characters, I love how Carriger uses those who are overlooked to help inform Sophrina of the world around her. Including Sophrina’s inventor friend – someone who likes to shuffle around the school and find plenty of rules to break. I’m absolutely in love with them, and I really love how they readily except Sophrina into their lives.

The world building within this novel is completely amazing. That, and the fact that Carriger has positive female friendships throughout. I mean, Monique and Preasha are not great, and work really well as antagonists, but the majority of Sophrina’s relationships are incredibly positive. And, even Monique and Preasha aren’t bad because of females being pitted against one another, they’re just not great people. There’s also the fact that Sophrina is able to encourage others to form positive relationships and be themselves.

Throughout the entirety of this story, Sophrina attempts to outwit and outsmart Monique’s selfish evil. And, although you know she’s going to at least win partially in the end, it’s brilliant how she actually goes about it. Plus, it’s kind of hilarious. Now I can’t wait to see what other shenanigans Sophrina and her friends get up to.

<- More Gail CarrigerCurtsies & Conspiracies ->

Image source: Amazon