Tag Archives: Urban Fantasy

Plaidypus by R.J. Blain

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Plaidypus
Author: R.J. Blain
Series: A Magical Romantic Comedy (with a Body Count) #19
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Humour, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Slow
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2022

Thoughts

This novel is actually the reason I first picked up R.J. Blain’s novels – I mean, the idea of a platypus shapeshifter pulled me in from the very first moment. It just took me a whole lot of novels to actually get up to the point when I was able to read to this point. And it did not disappoint. Plus, of all the animals that I’ve read about shifters of – I’m most fascinated by the idea of a platypus. Although, if I was Nadine, I’d also be supremely annoyed at the idea of not having venomous spurs like my male counterparts.

Nadine is the first Canadian in this series, and the first to go somewhere other than America (or hell). I really loved that she fits all of the stereotypes that I had expected, and I also liked how much respect everyone had for our nonsensical Australian wildlife. I particularly loved the zombie moose who just… decided to adopt Nadine and stick with her. I’m hoping that she makes another appearance later on in the series, or in the Magical Hellish Comedy series. I mean, the devil definitely has a thing for hooved menaces running free.

As with all of the books by R.J. Blain, the couple in this are cute and, ultimately, fairly easy to get involved with. Their obstacles to getting together are more about timing and confidence in themselves than anything else. Plus, they have a whole heap of match-making enthusiasts behind them, encouraging the nonsense. And, honestly, as much as I would love to think that falling in love is anything special, it really is just, ultimately looking at someone, and deciding that you’re going to keep them. Or at least, that’s how it was for me.

As much as I loved Nadine and her nonsense, it was really her dad that stole the show for me. I mean, a pony who just likes to eat our danger noodles? Absolutely freaking hilarious. I honestly could not stop giggling over that for a good couple of minutes. Plus, he goes back to do it again. I wish I had that kind of aggression and confidence towards our danger noodles…

<- CatnappedDoggone Mess ->

Image source: Barnes & Noble

Bitten ReRead by Kelley Armstrong

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Bitten (ReRead)
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Series: Otherworld #1
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Dark fantasy, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2001

Thoughts

It’s been a long time since my first read through of Bitten, and I was wondering how it would hold up years later. I mean, I still thoroughly enjoy reading Kelley Armstrong’s books, but there’s always something tentative and kind of risky about going back to read something you’ve loved in the past. What happens if it doesn’t meet your expectations? Luckily for me, this wasn’t the case, and whilst I took a bit longer than usual to read it – because I had personal crap going on. It was still just as beautiful and easy to love as the first read through.

I really liked the dysfunctionality of Clay and Elena. Which seems completely weird, but they are obviously meant for each other and going to end up together, yet, they are also a little toxic towards one another. I love that throughout this story, they actually spend a lot of time learning how to not be toxic toward one another and to be healthy in a relationship. Or at least, as healthy as they seem capable of. I also love that Clay takes the time to actually try and change and give Elena the space that she needs to make the right decision. Plus, there’s the fact that, even at the end, they aren’t quite riding off for a happily ever after into the sunset – rather it’s a lets see how we go now.

I can totally understand why Elena chuffs at the restrictions placed on her by Jeremy. I’ve never been one for blind obedience and I love that Elena is just the same – unable to blindly obey and constantly questioning authority. I also love how she does it in a way that ultimately still supports Jeremy in everything, she just doesn’t do so blindly. I also love Jeremy as an Alpha of the Werewolf Pack – he isn’t the typical aggressive alpha and is actually incredibly meticulous and intelligent. He is a little bit ignorant of just how to deal with Elena at times, which I find kind of hilarious.

I’m not going to lie, this is actually a bit of a creepy paranormal romance – I mean, the villains throughout this are primarily serial killers who have been turned into werewolves. That’s not going to be a comfortable story line / bunch of characters in any way, shape, or form. A lot of the storyline is also about Elena accepting the darkest parts of herself. She starts off in total denial about her more rage-like and aggressive tendencies, but then slowly comes to accept that that’s just a part of who she is. Not the cookie-cutter perfect reality, but a somewhat sarcastic and short-tempered power-house of a woman. One that, even on this second read through, I still adore.

<- More Kelley ArmstrongStolen ReRead ->

Image source: Hachette Books

An Artificial Night by Seanan McGuire

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: An Artificial Night
Author: Seanan McGuire
Series: October Daye #3
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Fae, Paranormal fantasy, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2010

Thoughts

An Artificial Night actually freaked me out a little bit more than other fae stories that I’ve read. Possibly because the idea of losing a child is honestly a visceral fear. Which is most likely why it’s so featured in traditional fae tales – the fae take our children and therefore are terrifying. Having children’s rhymes interspersed throughout just made this all that much freakier and more uncomfortable. But, because of this serious discomfort – I couldn’t put this book down and / or forget about it. It was phenomenal.

I frequently fall in love with McGuire’s characters, and truly enjoy Toby and all of her adventures. But, I must admit I pretty much immediately fell in love with May. I mean, the differences between her and Toby are apparent from the very beginning. And I just found her really cute and kind of naïve, whilst also being a little bit scary. It also made me happy that, even if she is a portent of something that is usually seen as a negative, she was a really positive character.

Connor is interesting as a character from Toby’s past, but I find him kind of painful. I don’t really see the connection between him and Toby, and honestly, every time he shows up, he just causes problems. Mostly by showing his emotions and painting a target on Toby’s back with his somewhat psychotic wife. He just kind of… hangs on and mopes around. Not my favourite character, although not quite detestable either.

Tybalt is so obviously the end game love interest for Toby, and I keep wanting more and more of them. I mean, it’s incredibly obvious that Tybalt has claimed Toby in some kind of way, and that she is entirely clueless about his motives. But this just makes me want more of their relationship. Particularly because I love the whole feline doesn’t do what anyone tells him angle that they’ve got going. I’m not sure if I’m excited for Late Eclipses because I can’t wait to see what other trouble Toby gets herself into, or because I’m excited for more Toby and Tybalt.

Honestly, I was kind of surprised at the fact that Toby managed to triumph like she did. I was expecting her to have a whole lot more trouble than she did with winning the battle. I love that her triumph was totally unexpected and, I feel, has a whole lot of unforeseen consequences. Now onto the next insane battle that she should lose, but won’t…

<- A Local HabitationLate Eclipses ->

Image source: Amazon

A Local Habitation by Seanan McGuire

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: A Local Habitation
Author: Seanan McGuire
Series: October Daye #2
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Fae, Paranormal fantasy, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2010

Thoughts

This novel was absolutely impossible to put down and honestly, really quite tragic in moments. There was a lot more death and destruction than I had anticipated. Which, I absolutely loved, even as I felt sad for all of the tragedies that befell Toby Daye and the fae she was trying to help. Plus, I got to find out more about Toby’s powers and her role in the court.

I absolutely adore the Toby and Tybalt dynamic, and I love how it is unfolding within this series. I’m really hoping that he is the final partner for Toby, just with a lot more drama and action in the lead up. Although, I do wonder why, at the end of this tale, Tybalt starts to avert his gaze from Toby. I can’t wait to discover more about why her powers and actions have potentially made him uncomfortable – and how this will inform their future relationship.

There were a number of twists throughout this story that I just didn’t quite see coming, then there were those that I did predict. I saw the twist of Alex and Terrie coming, but I didn’t quite figure out all of the machinations of how it would work. I also love how their story arc ended. There were so many twists and turns throughout this that I just couldn’t put this story down – I didn’t know what was going to happen from one moment to the next.

I loved how the killer throughout this was manipulated and coerced into some pretty horrifying decisions. And, ultimately, at the core of all of this, it was about the hierarchy of the fae and the abandonment of the changelings. It’s a reminder that issues of abandonment and feeling unloved are universal and always scarring.

Honestly, even a long time after turning the final page of this story, I absolutely cannot stop thinking about this. There is something completely unforgettable about McGuire’s writing that makes me want to constantly devour her writing. And now I can’t wait to get into An Artificial Night.

<- Rosemary and RueAn Artificial Night ->

Image source: Hachette Australia

White as a Raven’s Wing by Seanan McGuire

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: White as a Raven’s Wing
Author: Seanan McGuire
Series: InCryptid #2.7
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Strong women, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Short story
Year: 2014

Thoughts

I adored Issy and Ryan in the main InCryptid series, I mean, they’re both predators, but with vastly different family dynamics, and this shows in their actions. Plus, they go to bat for Verity multiple times, giving her the backup and support that she needs. Which, of course means that when I realised they have a few of their own short stories, I was pretty happy and hooked.

It’s fairly obvious from the beginning of this series that Waheelas are pretty scary and uncomfortable creatures, but this short story shows just how much Issy refrains from acting on her nature. That, and you know, how terrifying their family structure is. I kind of wish there were more moments of Issy beating people up in the bigger series – she’s is incredibly scary and tough.

I love that, although it’s kind of obvious that Issy is trying to scare Ryan out of a relationship with her, he sticks with her instead. He manages to see her for exactly who she is, not some idea of reality, and chooses to love her anyway. To me, this is the perfect indication of true love – understanding all of someone’s past and flaws, and loving them anyway.

I might have loved the creepiness of the Waheela family dynamics. And just this short story in general, but now I really want more Issy and Ryan. Mostly because I can’t wait to find out what a Waheela / Tanuka baby is going to be like…

<- Black as BloodHalf-off Ragnarok ->

Image source: Goodreads

Black as Blood by Seanan McGuire

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Black as Blood
Author: Seanan McGuire
Series: InCryptid #2.6
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Strong women, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Short story
Year: 2014

Thoughts

I read Black as Blood and White as a Raven’s Wing out of order, which kind of gave away a little bit of this short story. But, it was still enjoyable… like everything that McGuire writes.

I love that this is about Ryan taking Istas home to meet his family, and that they don’t necessarily feel all that friendly towards her and her status and Ryan’s mate. I mean, they are outright cruel and prejudiced against Issy, yet, she is able to overcome this and still maintain her dignity. It’s a little bit too cute. Particularly when it comes down to her final moment with Ryan’s mum in which she is able to win over the day.

Ryan is ridiculously loyal, not just to Istas, but also to his family. I love that Issy understands this, and finds a way to make it work, just so that her partner doesn’t have to choose and have his heart broken. The importance of family seeps from the pages of this story, and I seriously enjoyed reading about such a content couple.

<- Red as SnowWhite as a Raven’s Wing ->

Image source: Goodreads

Blocked by Seanan McGuire

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Blocked
Author: Seanan McGuire
Series: InCryptid #2.1
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Strong women, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Short story
Year: 2014

Thoughts

I love that this is a short story that features Verity’s little sister figuring out her way after high school. Amnity is mentioned multiple times throughout the first two InCryptid books, and I loved reading a tale that solely featured her. The fact that her challenges seem to be a little unique, and kind of a sheltered youngest child feeling, made it even more fun.

I’m not going to lie, if I could actually roller blade with any kind of coordination, I would love to try roller derby. Which made this incredibly fun to read about and dive into. Plus, the transition from cheerleader to roller derby player was interesting. And the hints of cryptids within the team. I want to know more about how this all unfolds and how Amnity is able to transfer this into her work with cryptids and keeping the world safe.

Honestly, at the end of this, I just really, really want to read more about Amnity and her pathway. Verity’s story is nicely tied up, so I’m excited for the next member of the family to find their way in life. Plus, I just want to find more cryptids to learn about!

<- Midnight Blue-Light SpecialBad Dream Girl ->

Image source: Goodreads

Midnight Blue-Light Special by Seanan McGuire

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Midnight Blue-Light Special
Author: Seanan McGuire
Series: InCryptid #2
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Strong women, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2013

Thoughts

As with all the stories I read by McGuire, this novel has an amazing pace and drama throughout. I honestly couldn’t put it down, and there’s a reason why I put McGuire’s books to the top of my TBR. I mean, there was just so much enjoyment and action throughout that I couldn’t forget.

I love how in this series; all of the cryptids have a place in Verity’s heart and life. Its wonderful how her daily interactions are filled with cryptids in the most bizarre ways. But the Aeslin Mice still have to be my favourites – they’re a little nutty, a little fierce, and a whole lot of fun.

Dominic and Verity were always going to run into problems. But their relationship was really put to the test in Midnight Blue-Light Special. It was actually a little more heart-wrenching and depressing than I had anticipated. But that’s also what made me want to keep reading. It’s nice when the action has a wonderful, secondary story in the romance.

This novel was absolutely impossible to put down. And completely unforgettable. I loved the pure joy and insanity throughout the story. The ways that different cryptids were able to mesh together. Plus, there was a whole lot of humour and shenanigans that had me smiling and laughing, even when the drama was getting a little intense. A fantastic urban fantasy that had me grinning and bouncing with joy.

<- Discount ArmageddonBlocked ->

Image source: Goodreads

Born to Be Badger by Shelly Laurenston

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Born to Be Badger
Author: Shelly Laurenston
Series: Honey Badger Chronicles #5
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal romance, Shapeshifters, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2023

Thoughts

Max and her team of insane honey badgers are absolutely, totally and utterly freaking fantastic. I mean, they are completely ridiculous and insanely violent, which I love. And then the whole finding their forever partners who want to put up with the ridiculousness and go along for the ride… priceless. Plus, aggressive mayhem and honey badgers – I’m never not going to love that combination.

Tock and her inability to even quite fit in with the rest of the honey badgers is brilliant. I love that she literally makes her own app to keep track of time and her scheduling. I mean, I feel how frustrating this is, and wish that I had her app. And ability to actually keep to whatever schedule I plan. Plus, she just embraces the fact that she’s a little abnormal, and uses it to freak people out and make her escapes… something that I honestly do myself. Frequently.

Shay is so completely calm and sane, which I feel like is necessary for someone who loves an insane honey badger. I love that Tock manages to also fall for one of the few men who is unable to keep any concept of time. She is so regimented, and he doesn’t really care where he is or when. They are completely enjoyable and fun opposites attract. Plus, it’s just fun to have Tock getting so completely out of control and frustrated every time Shay decides to just meander along.

Shay’s daughter, Dani, is completely adorable and I love that she is happily able to bond with Tock over STEM. That, and they agree that Stevie just shouldn’t be involved in the tutoring. Because Stevie is nuts and still completely capable of taking over the world… plus, there’s the fact that Tock is able to help Dani reinforce when she says the word “no”. I love how the girls in Shay’s life bond over STEM and telling a boy no… consent and STEM. Two incredibly important things for young women to learn.

Now that I’ve read Born to Be Badger, I’ve decided that I’ll probably need to reread the Honey Badger Chronicles and Pride series. Just because they’re hilarious, and I love doing rereads amongst all of my reading – revisiting beloved worlds is relaxing and enjoyable in a whole other way.

<- Breaking BadgerTo Kill a Badger ->

Image source: Amazon

Bonds by Susan Copperfield

Book Review, , , ,
Overview

Title: Bonds
Author: Susan Copperfield
Series: Royal States #6
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Magic, Paranormal romance, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: eBook, Novel
Year: 2019

Thoughts

I absolutely loved reading a romance which featured a search and rescue worker, because the whole Good Samaritan thing is just dreamy. And then, there’s the fact that there is also a paranormal spin on the search and rescue. The fact that the opening scene of this book is Jack using his wave bending powers to stop an oil spill and an environmental disaster… brilliant.

Each of the Royal Families in the Royal States have a seriously cool power, and I love that the Maine’s family gift is all about healing. And that their entire identity and economy are based around medicine and healing. Although, I can’t imagine having the will to heal to the degree that you actually give part of your life for another being – that is a level of commitment and kindness that I’m not entirely sure I could impart. The pitfalls of tying yourself to someone are also glaringly obvious and made me love the Maine Royals even more.

I kept on wondering just when the evil uncle was going to surface – I mean, he’s an evil uncle who really wants the crown. You know he’s going to show up and enact his nefarious plans the moment that he can… yet, when he finally makes his appearance, he was not only far more evil than I had realised. I mean, there are hints of even more terrible abuses than I had originally imagined. But, he also got a much more gruesome ending than I had expected too. Which was kind of nice… whilst also being seriously gross. And disturbing. Probably part of why I love reading this series, they tend to have a bit of extra blood and mayhem than I anticipate… because I’m a blood thirsty wench.

Bonds sets up Cold Flame really well, and I can’t wait to see what a story featuring my first New York Royal is going to entail. The fact that it’s a royal who doesn’t necessarily fit in with the rest of her family just makes me all that much more excited to dive into this story! It’s also highlighting how interconnected all of the Royal Families in the Royal States series are. They’re all marrying off each other, know each other’s secrets and just being entirely chaotic in their practices. I can’t wait to see how the New Yorkers are going to positively interact with the rest of the insane royal families.

Jack’s past and his reasons for hiding are a little bit sad. The survivors of a family genocide who are too scared to even use their talents, in case they are discovered. Although, I love that Jack is driven to constantly challenge himself, which is what ends them all in hot water. Now I kind of want more of his siblings to see how they fit in with the rest of the royals and establish their newfound freedom. Honestly, I constantly want to find out more about the characters in this series anyway, which is why I keep reading it…

<- HuntressCold Flame ->

Image source: Goodreads