Book Review -- Darkfever

Title: Darkfever
Author: Karen Marie Moning
Genre: Paranormal romance, urban fantasy
Pages: Hardback, 304
Published: 2006
Opening Lines: "My philosophy is pretty simple -- any day nobody's trying to kill me is a good day in my book."

"McKayla Lane's life is good. She has great friends, a decent job, and a car that breaks down only every other week or so. In other words, she's your perfectly ordinary twenty-first-century woman.

"Or so she thinks . . . until something extraordinary happens.

"When she sister is murdered, leaving a single clue to her death -- a cryptic message on Mac's cell phone -- mac journeys to Ireland in search of answers. The quest to find her sister's killer draws her into a shadowy realm where nothing is as it seems, where good and evil wear the same treacherously seductive mask. She is soon faced with an even greater challenge: staying alive long enough to learn how to handle a power she had no idea she possessed -- a gift that allows her to see beyond the world of man, into the dangerous realm of the Fae."

~ Jacket copy

Thoughts: A friend of mind suggested this series to me quite some time ago. To be honest, I picked up the book several times, but never really did much more. However, last week, my father informed me that he had just finished the wholes series and loved it. I was intrigued (Honestly, I'm still wondering why he enjoyed it . . . *scratches head*). Luckily, being poor and out of work, the library had it! Score!

I felt that Moning did a good job researching faery lore. Seriously considering getting advanced degrees in Medieval Studies, I have taken some heavy-duty mythology courses, Arthurian legends, etc., so I am extremely familiar with this subject matter. It was refreshing to see that she actually put the time into her book. I also appreciated that she checked the pronunciation sidhe. I admit, I am a stickler with a stick up my ass *^_^* Anyways, I also appreciated that she was careful not to label the Seelie court as "good". However, the concept of the Fae being aliens was rather strange and a bit different.

Aside from that, I really didn't like the characters. Mac was downright annoying! My mother says, "Honey, she's a Southern Bell." I think that is letting her get off easily and an insult to Southern Bells. Yes, Mac has not been out in the world, but common sense shouldn't be that hard to come by. To be honest, I really cannot stand that in characters. It makes it impossible for me to feel any connection to them.

And don't get me started on Jericho Barrons! He is the typical hero in romance: devilish good looks, closed-off, out for number one, older, wiser, teacher, mysterious back story, exotic, aloof, and a complete asshole! All he has going for him is the mysterious back story. I kept wondering when something might crop up that would give some hint as to his identity, but it never happened. Even though he seems to understand what is occurring in Mac's changing world, I don't understand why she runs to him. After the encounter where she is staying, she should have written him off. This isn't even touching how he treats her through the rest of the book.

Now the sex. Um, yeah . . . Getting masturbated by a "death-by-sex" Fae in a public museum with a pearl bracelet/necklace is a little much for me. I understand this extremely sexual turn-on these Fae possess, but it was a little too gratuitous for me. And the whole museum scene was in bad taste. (This right here is why I wonder why my dad enjoyed this series.)

The premise behind the plot was good. It has a LOT of potential, and I really like the concept. I think she could have done a lot with it, but I felt that it really flopped. It is possible I am reading this wrong. More of the story could be about Mac coming to terms with her new life, but it still felt "bleh".

All that being said, I have read several poor reviews of this book that are prefaced as saying the rest of the series is good. And, since I enjoy the concept, I am planning on finishing it. So, even though I am not impressed by the first book, I am willing to give it the benefit of the doubt.

Rating: ☆ ☆ ☆
Currently: Matched by Ally Condie
Pages: 9604
Horror/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 16/24
Current Progress:

28/50 books

Book Review -- Frostbitten

Title: Frostbitten
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Genre: Urban fantasy
Pages: Paperback, 414
Published: 2010
Opening Lines: "As Tom watched the moonlight reflect off the ice-covered lake, he had a reflection of his own: the world really needed more snow."

"For Elena Michaels, being the world's only female werewolf has its advantages, such as having her pick of the Otherworld's most desirable males. And she couldn't have picked a more dangerously sexy and undyingly loyal mate than Clayton Danvers. But now their bond will be out to the ultimate test. A werewolf more wolf than human and more unnatural than supernatural -- a creature whose origins spring from ancient legend -- is hunting human prey and Elena and Clayton must track the predator deep into Alaska's frozen wilderness.

"But the personal stakes are even higher. Either Clayton or Elena has been chosen to become the new Pack leader and every wolf knows that there can be only one Alpha. The couple have always been equals in everything. Now, when their survival depends more than ever on perfect teamwork, will instinct allow one of them to lead and the other to follow?"

~ Jacket copy

Thoughts: Finally, Elena and Clay are back! Even though I like the other characters in the Otherworld series, the werewolves are my favorite. (Does that have something to do with having a "wolf" kanji tattooed on my arm?) It was also nice to see Clay and Elena fully at peace with each other. While they make appearances in the other books, having one completely devoted to them in their new station in life was a nice change.

The majority of this novel takes place in Alaska. After following an Australian mutt outside of the continental US, Jeremy asks them to check up on old pack members and some human-wolf attacks. While getting in contact with the mutt and looking into the murders, they uncover a plot that traces all the way back to Russia and the Ukraine. Further, they are also being chased/terrorized by a strange creature that seems to have stepped out of Clay's professorial papers on shape shifters.

This book did not disappoint! It was an awesome comeback for the werewolves! After the previous books, this one did not hold back on the punches -- literally! It was nice to get back into some of the physical aspect that the wolves present: fighting, running, etc. She was able to balance the action and the smuttier sections of the book without toppling and making one far more overpowering. After having the twins, I was afraid that they would dominate this book in a bad way. However, she was able to include them with the right amount of cuteness. It was nice to see that the characters didn't remain stagnant while the series went on.

All in all, the books about the wolves are by far my favorite in the series. I read through this book in a matter of days. It was engaging, had good pacing, character development, etc.


Rating: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Currently: The Enemy by Charlie Higson
Pages: 7357
Horror/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 15/24
Current Progress:

22/50 books

Book Review & Reading Challenge

Title: The Hunger Games
Author: Suzanne Collins
Genre: YA
Pages: Hardback, 374
Published: 2008
Opening Lines: "When I wake up, the other side of the bed is cold. My fingers stretch out, seeking Prim's warmth but finding only the rough canvas cover of the mattress."

"In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on life TV.

"Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to death before -- and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love."

~Jacket copy

Thoughts: Simply put, wow. I had an idea what this book was when I picked it up. A friend of mine suggested it to me, and I admit to being extremely curious about it. But, wow, knowing doesn't really prepare you for the book. I have a lot of thoughts about this book, but I'm honestly not sure if I could express them.

The story was amazing and the plot was very well played. While I felt that Collins didn't hold back, it was easy to believe that the audience was following a 16 year-old girl. I enjoyed the narrative style she used and the POV. Using the first person present tense really put the reader into Katniss' head, as well as placing them in the thick of the action. Because of this, Katniss' internal struggle with the Games and her feelings towards Peeta felt like my own.

It was hard to read about children being put in this God-awful situations and forced to become little more than animals for entertainment. Granted, I understand some of the motivation behind the Capitol's power play, but that doesn't make it any better or any easier. The horror of this misuse of children is then increased by adding all of the Gamekeepers' actions to increase viewership and sponsor interest. It really makes you take a closer look at our capitalistic society.

The end of the book was no less then heart rending! Once the Games have finally ended, you hope for some small sliver of hope, but you are denied it. Once I finished it, I quickly put the next book on hold at the library! Sadly, it is checked out This book definitely goes on my list of "The Best Books of All Time."

Rating: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Currently: Incarceron by Catherine Fisher
Pages: 6943
Horror/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 14/24
Current Progress:

21/50 books

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Welcome to the 50 Books in 2011 Challenge! Every year, I try to read at least 50 books. It keeps me reading and helps me keep track of what I've read. This year I thought I would extend the challenge to anyone willing to take it on!

To sign up you MUST make a post on your blog about participating in the challenge -- you then use the URL of the post to sign up to the challenge by adding it to Mr. Linky below.

You must add the button to your sidebar -- make sure that it links back to this post so others can join the challenge if they wish. Easiest way to do this is to copy and paste the code displayed!

Challenge Details

• Timeline: 01 Jan 2011 - 31 Dec 2011

• Rules: To read FIFTY (50) novels in 2011 (50 is the minimum, but you can read more if you wish!)

• You don't have to select your books ahead of time, you can just add them as you go. Also if you do list them upfront you can change them, nothing is set in stone! The books you choose can crossover into other challenges you have on the go.

• You can join anytime.

Book Review -- Curse of the Wendigo

Title: Curse of the Wendigo
Author: Rick Yancey
Genre: YA/horror
Pages: Hardback, 424
Published: 2010
Opening Lines: "The reader was a retired middle school English teacher whose mother had come to live at the facility in 2001."

"As apprentice to Dr. Pellinore Warthrop, Will Henry has a life dedicated to the pursuit of monstrumology: the study of monsters. But when Dr. Warthrop is informed that his old mentor Dr. von Helrung is trying to prove the existence of the mythical Wendigo, He Who Devours All Mankind, a creature that starves even as it gorges itself on human flesh, Will's world is plunged into fresh turmoil.

"Will and Dr. Warthrop must traverse the desolate wastelands of Canada . . . and in the process may discover a truth far more terrifying than even they could have imagined."

~ Jacket copy

Thoughts: After getting this from the library, I was sad to discover that it is the second in a series. However, unwilling to wait until April for Monstrumologist to be returned to the library, I decided to read it anyway. And, honestly, I didn't feel as though I was missing anything. The first book might have given some back story to Will Henry, but I never felt lost.

After reading the prologue, I was not sure what to expect with this book. Either way, I was extremely surprised! The book follows Will Henry, who is orphaned and left to live with his father's mentor. The doctor is a monstrumologist and studies "mythical" creatures. Even after reading the book, I'm not quite sure how the doctor differentiates between the myth of the Wendgio, vampire, werewolf, and zombie and actual creatures. *shrug* After being approached by an old friend, the doctor and Will set out to Rat Portage to find the doctor's best friend, John Chanler.

This book was creepy! I'm not sure any other way to describe it. It was good, enthralling, riveting, engaging, and very, very creepy. Not only does it delve deeply into the myth of the Wendigo, but also into human nature. I'm excited to read the Monstrumologist, but I'm afraid it will not be as good as this book. I hope Rick has more books in the works, but I guess it depends on the folios left.

Rating: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Currently: Black Magic Sanction by Kim Harrison
Pages: 6023
Horror/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 13/24
Current Progress:

19/50 books

Update & 2 Book Reviews

It has been a long time since I last posted. I'm sorry for the long delay. My husband and I came down with a really nasty virus. It knocked us down for about 2 weeks. It took nearly 5+ days for me to even be able to eat much of anything, and nearly a week to eat somewhat normally. I lost my voice for 3+ days, and it has barely returned. It still is not normal. Needless to say, I lost my desire to read. My days were mostly spent laying on the couch in front of the TV moaning due to the pain and alternating Advil and Tylenol to keep my fever at a manageable level.

However, I am back! Even after all that, my desire to read has finally returned! While hardly able to leave the house, I ran over to Hastings and bought the newest Jeaniene Frost book when it came out, and I also grabbed onto Feed. This past weekend my brother brought me the complete Harry Dresden series, so I don't have to pinch together a coins and scour the library for copies of the books. It is nice to have family who are also bibliophiles -- even if some of them are turning to e-books Without further ado, here are 2 book reviews.

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Title: Storm Front
Author: Jim Butcher
Genre: Urban fantasy
Pages: Paperback, 322
Published: 2000
Opening Line: "I heard the mailman approach my office door, half an hour earlier than usual."

"Harry Dresden--Wizard
Lost items found. Paranormal investigations.
Consulting. Advice. Reasonable rates.
No Love Potions, Endless Purses, Parties, or Other Entertainment.

Harry Dresden is the best at what he does. Well, technically, he's the only at what he does. So when the Chicago P.D. has a case that transcends mortal creativity or capability, they come to him for answers. For the "everyday" world is actually full of strange and magical things--and most of them don't play too well with humans. That's where Harry comes in. Takes a wizard to catch a--well, whatever.

There's just one problem. Business, to put it mildly, stinks. So when the police bring him in to consult on a grisly double murder committed with black magic, Harry's seeing dollar signs. But where there's magic, there's a black mage behind it. And now that mage knows Harry's name. And that's when things start to get... interesting.

Magic. It can get a guy killed."

~ Good Reads

Thoughts: I picked this book up a couple of years ago, and I couldn't get past the first few pages. It just didn't catch my interest, and it felt as though Butcher was copying every urban fantasy that came before him. It didn't feel original. However, after my brother pestered me for months, I decided I would give it another go. I guess this book is just one of those I had to come back to. I didn't have the same issues, it read really quickly (aside from the reading hiatus I took being sick), and it was really engaging!

Butcher put a lot of thought into Harry's world. The problems wizards have around electronics was really original and gave extra dimension to the character. I enjoyed Harry's poignant observation that many wizards only rely on magic and fail to see anything outside of that.

I really don't have too much to say about Storm Front. The book was enjoyable. I felt Butcher did a good job fleshing out Dresden and making the world believable. There was never a dull moment. The serious nature aside, the book was also full of laughs!

Rating: 5/5
Currently: Ill Wind by Rachel Caine
Pages: 4402
Horror/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 11/24

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Title: The Sandman: Brief Lives
Author: Neil Gaiman
Genre: Graphic novel
Pages: Paperback, 256
Published: 1994
Opening Line: "It is, of course, a miracle."

"In BRIEF LIVES, Delirium, youngest of the family known as The Endless, prevails upon her brother Dream to help find their missing sibling, Destruction. Their subsequent odyssey through the waking world, and their final confrontation with Destruction -- as well as the resolution of Dream's painful relationship with his son, Orpheus -- will change The Endless forever."

~ Jacket Copy

Thoughts: I have loved this series from the beginning! There is nothing I would change.

Since I first saw her picture and her introduction in the vol. 1, I have been extremely fascinated with Delirium, who used to be Delight. Something about her nature always seemed different than the other Endless. Imagine my excitement when I discovered that vol. 7 followed her!

After years as Delirium, The Endless decides that she misses her brother, Destruction, greatly. Being unable to hold her attention for too long, she approaches her siblings Desire and Despair to help her on her quest. Both of them say "no"; however, Despair secretly desires to to follow her. After this setback, Delirium hesitantly approaches Dream. Against the advice of Desire, he chooses to follow her. He claims that he has no wish to find his brother. He is just accompanying her for "something to do."

During their adventures and travels, Dream is changed. When questioned, Despair makes it clear that Delirium herself has not changed due to all the change she has seen in her young life. However, the audience is shown snippets of who Delirium truly is and what she might have been like as Delight. In addition, Gaiman drops little clues as to why she decided to become Delirium.

There isn't much I can say about this graphic novel. The storyline was amazing. The character development and the parable Gaiman gives is simply astounding. In the whole series, the only thing I would change would be some of the art styles. While the artists do a good job of capturing The Endless, using their speech fonts/bubbles to give them depth, I tend to not like the chosen art style. I admit, I tend to be an art snob! Aside from that . . . Wow!

Rating: 5/5
Currently: Ill Wind by Rachel Caine
Pages: 4402
Current Progress:

13/50 books

Book Review -- Malice

Title: Malice
Author: Chris Wooding
Genre: YA/urban fantasy/steampunk/horror/graphic novel
Pages: Paperback, 379
Published: 2009
Opening Line: "'I have to show you something.'"

'Tall Jake, take me away . . .'

"Everyone's heard the rumors. Call on Tall Jake and he'll take you to Malice, a world that exists inside a horrifying comic book. A place most kids never leave.

"Seth and Kady think it's all a silly myth. But then their friend disappears, and suddenly the rumors don't seem so silly after all . . ."

Thoughts: This book was a birthday present from a friend of mine. He loved The Haunting of Alaizabel Cray. I couldn't ge tinto that book, so I was a little hesitant about this one.

Malice follows Kady, a cute American girl living in England, and Seth. After their friend Luke disappears, they go on a scary and dangerous journey to find the truth behind the rumors of Malice -- the world and the comic book.

This book is really dark. From the cover art and the decription, it really didn't surprise me. However, I wasn't ready for some of the children in the book to die so casually. Granted, the characters in the book take it rather hard; however, Wodding writes it as though it is a normal occurance . . . Well, I suppose, in Malice it is.

I found it interesting that once inside Malice, the world takes on a steampunk type style. The automations are run on something other than steam; however, the concept of the creatures all being automations and made of cogs was very steampunk. It gave the world depth. Something about it also made it feel darker.

I love using the combination of graphic novel and regular novel! It defintiely gave it a unique reading experience. It also allowed the reader to share an experience with the characters in the book. Reading through the graphic novel/comic sections made me feel as though I was one of the unfortunate children to pick up a copy of the comic, Malice.

This was a good book! I really enjoyed it. Currently, I am trying to track down a copy of Havoc, but I'm having no luck!



Rating: 5/5
Currently: Storm Front by Jim Butcher
Pages: 3824
Horror/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 10/24
Current Progress:

11/50 books

Book Review -- One Foot in the Grave

Title: One Foot in the Grave
Author: Jeaniene Frost
Genre: Urban fantasy/paranormal romance
Pages: Paperback, 357
Published: 2008
Opening Line: "I waited outside the large, four-story home in Manhasset that was owned by Mr. Liam Flannery."

"Half-vampire Cat Crawfield is now Special Agent Cat Crawfield, working for the government to rid the world of the rogue undead. She's still using everything Bones, her sexy and dangerous ex, taught her, but when Cat is targeted for assassination, the only man who can help is the vampire she left behind.

"Being around him awakens all her emotions, from the adrenaline kick of slaying vamps side by side to the reckless passion that consumed them. But a price on her head -- wanted: dead or half-alive -- means her survival depends on teaming up with Bones. And no matter how hard she tries to keep things professional between them, she'll find that desire lasts forever . . . and that Bones won't let her get away again."

~ Jacket copy

Thoughts: I don't have too much to say. I have really been enjoying this series. Unlike certain other books, this one actually has a plot!

My biggest problem was the length of time Frost skipped in the beginning of the book. To get where she was going, there needed to be time jumps. However, several one right after the other was a little overkill. Also, Cat's reaction at the wedding and to Annette seemed way over the top.

The sex in this book was ramped up to another level. The scenes were longer and very graphic. However, while there was repressed sexual angst and outrageous scenes, I felt that Frost still tried to stay true to the plot and storyline. I will say that the intense sex scene was not really needed. It didn't add anything to the story. But, as it says on the spine, it is a paranormal romance, so I expect some level of sex.

All in all, I enjoyed this book as much as the first. It tore through it in a matter of days. The other books are sitting next to my computer waiting to be devoured.

Rating: 5/5
Currently: At Grave's End by Jeaniene Frost
Pages: 2734
Horror/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 7/24
Current Progress:

8/50 books

Book Review -- Halfway to the Grave

Title: Halfway to the Grave
Author: Jeaniene Frost
Genre: Urban fantasy/paranormal romance
Pages: Paperback, 358
Published: 2007
Opening Line: "I stiffened at the red and blue lights flashing behind me, because there was no way I could explain what was in the back of my truck."
Favorite Line: "Charlie whistled 'Amazing Grace' as he drove. It was all I could do to no whip my head around and snap, Are you kidding me? Couldn't be pick something more appropriate like 'Shout at the Devil' or 'Don't Fear the Reaper'? Some people had no sense of the proper music for kidnapping." (179)
Theme Song: Tears Don't Fall by Bullet for My Valentine

"Half-vampire Catherine Crawfield is going after the undead with a vengeance, hoping that one of these deadbeats is her father -- the one responsible for ruining her mother's life. Then she's captured by Bone, a vampire bounty hunter, and is forced into an unholy partnership.

"In exchange for finding her father, Cat agrees to train with the sexy night stalker until her battle reflexes are as sharp as his fangs. She's amazed she doesn't en up as his dinner -- are there actually good vampires? Pretty soon Bones will have her convinced that being half-dead doesn't have to be all bad. But before she can enjoy her newfound status as kick-ass demon hunter, Cat and Bones are pursued by a group of killers. Now Cat will have to choose a side . . . and Bones is turning out to be as tempting as any man with a heartbeat."

~ Jacket copy

Thoughts: My hubby got this book shortly after it was published. It has been sitting on our shelves collecting dust. After finishing Feast of Fool, I decided to pick this one up. What possessed me to do it, I have no idea. Since he got it, I have been avoiding in like the plague. After being horribly traumatized by Laurell K. Hamilton, I have steered clear of anything that feels as though it could have too much of a romantic element for fear that it would end up worse than a badly written porn. However, I have to admit that Frost really surprised me!

The book follows Cat Crawfield. She struggles with her nature as a half-vampire and cannot find her place in the world. Since she was 16, her mother has made it clear that half of her is evil. Hence, I feel as though Cat hates herself. She is always in conflict with this other half. As a way to purge this perceived evil and to get retribution for her mother's rape, she becomes a vampire killer.

Admittedly, at points, Cat is beyond stupid. Her adventure in the vampire bar with the roofies was pretty unbelievable. Aside from instances like that, I really enjoyed Cat as a character. Frost did a good job capturing this inner turmoil. Unlike some characters, Cat didn't feel angsty or whiny. I get really tired of main characters who are into bemoaning there life and circumstances. While Cat didn't necessarily deal with her deeply rooted issues, she went out at did something about it: Kicked ass! I can respect that.

I also really enjoyed Bones. It was neat to see a vampire who hunted his own kind. While he appeared to be a vampire bounty-hunter, his reasons behind his profession are very noble. Even though Bone is described as being a blondie, I kept picturing Matt Tuck from Bullet for My Valentine.

When Bones started to get extremely territorial over Cat, I felt that it was a little out of his character, and it made me think Frost was pushing too hard. Timmie was not a believable character to me; however, it was obvious that he was no threat to Bones, so his reaction was over the top. In addition, Cat's response to Francesca also seemed a little out of character. She never showed her territorial side at any other point in the novel, and, like Bone's response to Timmie, it was over the top. I felt her starting to spout sexual comments and accidentally grabbing Bones by the balls (literally) was just in bad taste and unbelievable. I have no issues with vampires being extremely territorial. In fact, it makes sense to me. I just wish she had dropped little tidbits about it before it was shoved in your face, especially with Francesca!

In addition, the special branch of the FBI dealing with paranormal activities was too "Laurell K. Hamilton." I liked the deal that Cat cut with them, but it was way too close to Anita's position. At some level, I accept that urban vampire fantasy might take elements from her books, but this felt a little too close for comfort. However, after starting the second book, it really doesn't upset me. With the a fore mentioned deal, I think that Frost is able to make it her own.

Aside from some of my minor issues, I really enjoyed this book! Last night, I forced my hubby to take me to Hastings, so I could grab the next book in the series. There was no way I was finishing the book last night without the other one waiting beside me :)

Rating: 5/5
Currently: One Foot in the Grave by Jeaniene Frost
Pages: 2019
Horror/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 6/24
Current Progress:

7/50 books

Reviews - Feast of Fools

Title: Feast of Fools
Author: Rachel Caine
Genre: YA urban fantasy
Pages: Paperback, 242
Published: 2008
Opening Line: "It was hard to imagine how Claire's day -- even by Morganville standards -- could get any worse . . . and then the vampires holding her hostage wanted breakfast."
Favorite Line: "What the hell are you supposed to be?" He asked.
"Harlequin."
"Isn't that a Batman villain?" (Pg 239)

"In the college town of Morganville, vampires and humans have learned to live in relative peace. still, students like Claire Danvers know that after dark, studying can take a backseat to staying alive But the tenuous good-neighbor policy is really turned on its head with the arrival of Mr. Bishop.

"Bad to the bone, the ancient old-school vampire cares nothing about harmony. Staying at the top of the food chain is enough. What he wants from the town's living and dead is unthinkably sinister. It's only at a formal ball attended by vampires and their human dates that Claire realizes Bishop's plan -- and the elaborately evil trap he's set for the warmblooded souls of Morganville . . ."

-- Jacket copy

Thoughts: This is another return to Morganville where the vampires rule and the people only come out in daylight. However, this simple living arrangement is about to change. Three strong, scary vamps have come to town in order to take control from the Founder, Amelie. When family and friends become sucked into the power play, Claire must do something to stop the takeover.

While there are people out there that do not like these books, I really enjoy this series. Granted, it is a little annoying to dig through all the teenage angst. While Claire is the youngest, aside from the vampires, the oldest character might be Michael at around 19-20. Needless to say, they haven't completely outgrown it.

It is hard to fully talk about this book without giving anything away. The character development was good. Caine showed the readers a completely different side of Amelie. All the characters are put into situations where they must make some sacrifices. They are very hard decisions, and I feel as though Caine is really testing the depth of their character.

The problem that I consistently have with these books revolves around Monica and her friends. All three of the girls act as though they never left high school. They take the role of Claire's bullies. While I didn't go to a community college in a small town, this really seems out there for me. I can accept that some kids never grow up, but it still feels too campy. And, after antagonizing Claire and her friends throughout the whole book, Monica is quick to step up when needed. Granted, it usually serves her best interest.

On a side note, my favorite character is Myrnin ^__^

Rating: 3/5
Currently: Either Halfway to the Grave or Lord of Misrule
Pages: 2019
Horro/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 4/24
Current Progress:

6/50 books

Business and Book Review

Book 3 is ready to review. However, before that, there is some business that needs to be addressed.

Last night, I was approached by Tami Jackson to join her book tour! The book is called Ravena & the Resurrected. On February 28th, Ms. Jackson will visit this lovely blog and answer some questions. It would be awesome if you book junkies would stop by and show her support!

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Title: Fear Nothing
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre Horror/thriller
Pages: Hardback, 391
Published: 1998
First Lines: "On the desk in my candlelit study, the telephone rang, and I knew that a terrible change was coming."

"Christopher Snow is different from all the other residents of Moonlight Bay, different from anyone you've ever met. For Christopher Snow has made his peace with a very rare genetic disorder shared by only one thousand other Americans, a disorder that leaves him dangerously vulnerable to light. His life is filled with the fascinating rituals of one who must embrace the dark. He knows the night as no one else ever will, ever can -- the mystery, the beauty, the many terrors, and the eerie, silken rhythms of the night -- for it is only at night that he is free.

"Until the night he witnessed a series of disturbing incidents that sweep him into a violent mystery only he can solve, a mystery that will force him to rise above all fears and confront the many-layered strangeness of Moonlight Bay and its residents."

Jacket copy

Thoughts (will contain SPOILERS): This book follows one adventurous night with Christopher Snow. He lives with a rare disorder called xeroderma pigmentosum, which keeps him out of the sunlight. He spends his time riding around Moonlight Bay on his bicycle with his trusted dog, Orson. This night, the night of his father's death, is different than anything he has ever dreamed. This night will change his life.

Focusing on a main character that has a disability that keeps him inside during the day time is a really interesting concept. Having access to the nightlife, gives the readers' a unique invitation to the world of the unseen and sinister.

Throughout the novel, Koontz alludes to the fact that Orson is not your typical dog. He appears to understand Chris and show other signs of above average intelligence. Near the end of the book, one of the characters suggests that Orson may not be your average dog. In fact, he is part of a secret government research project. Koontz even addresses the Francis Project from the Watchers. Did Koontz want to revisit and explore this subject in more depth?

As in Watchers and, later, in the Prodigal Son series, Koontz once again tries to bring Frankenstein and Creature back to the table. As a way to correct Chris' disorder, his mother uses government contracts to do genetic research. They swap DNA from animals and people and mix it with a diluted virus to carry it into the subject. In other words, they make a retrovirus. This retrovirus completely changes the composition of the carriers. Through the animal testing, they created this group of rhesus monkeys called the Troop. They are evil and violent. Their main goal is to destroy anyone and anything they associate with their creation. In addition, court-matrialed soldiers are also injected with the retrovirus.

Koontz then extends this Frankenstein theme by looking into birth defects. Since this genetic testing was originally started to reverse Chris' XP, many of the people involved believe that it might be able to reverse or correct other issues.

His fierce pride in Toby's exhibition of this new verbal skill was so touching and so deeply sad that I could not look at him.
"In spite of all that he didn't have, he was always happy," I said of Toby. "He found a purpose, fulfillment. Now what if they can take him far enough that he's dissatisfied with what he is . . . but then they can't take him all the way to normal?"
"They will," Manuel said with a measure of conviction for which there could be no justification. "They will."
"The same people who've created this nightmare?"

pg 341

Is it worth it? How far is too far? Koontz posits these questions, but doesn't pass judgment. The questions are meant to make us think. And, I feel, that Koontz maybe a very powerful argument either way.

I really enjoyed this book. It was hard to put down! At points during the book, I felt really creeped out and paranoid. The scene inside the nurse's house was almost too much! I still stand by the fact that porcelain dolls are creepy and evil!

Rating: 5/5
Currently Reading: Ravena & the Resurrected by Tami Jackson and Before Midnight by Cameron Dokey
Horro/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 3/24
Current Progress:

3/50 books

Pages Read: 1364

Watchers -- Book #2

Title: Watchers
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre: Horror/Thriller
Pages: Hardback, 406
Published: 1987
First line: "On his thirty-sixth birthday, May 18, Travis Cornell rose at five o'clock in the morning."

"Out of a government laboratory so sinister and secret that its very name cannot be whispered and into the lives of certain good and evil people come two escaped creatures, one murderous and one benign and both 'changed, changes utterly' from the ordinary animals they once were. To scientists who fashioned them they are the end products of genetic engineering and enhanced intelligence and they want them back. To the people who encounter them they spell either doom or touching new kind of love. At the climax of this heart-stopping novel they will inevitably meet." Jack Copy

Thoughts (will contain SPOILERS): This book is hard to review. There are so many different concepts and issues that Koontz tackles. However, I'm not sure he is aware of some of the problems the book causes instead of finding a solution.

The book starts out with Travis Cornell wandering into Orange county hiking trails with his gun. It appear as though, given his mindset, it appears as though he is going to attempt to kill himself. However, Koontz tells us that he is trying to reclaim his childhood by shooting rattle snakes. During this outing, he meets Einstein, the genetically altered Golden Retriever. After saving Travis from The Outsider, Einstein worms his way into Travis' life. From there, it follows the adventures of Travis, Nora Devon (his new wife), The Outsider, an NSA agent, and a mafia hit man.

After the escape of Einstein and The Outsider, the NSA is brought in to recover the animals and bring them back. After learning of Einstein's history, Travis and Nora are no inclined to give the dog back. Their argument is based on the dog's intelligence.

"Was it blasphemous to think Einstein had a soul? No. She did not think blasphemy entered into it. Man had made the dog; however, if there was a God, He obviously approved of Einstein -- not least of all because Einstein's ability to differentiate right from wrong, his ability to love, his courage, and his selflessness made him closer to the image of God than were many human beings who walked the earth." --page 365

Why does intelligence equal freedom? Just because Einstein is smart does not mean that he deserves more or less than other living things. To me, every dog deserves to sit on the couch between their people and watch TV. Just because the animal is not "intelligent" does it still make it okay to poke and prod them? *shrug* Also, why does "intelligence" equal a soul? Or the ability to love? Being a pet owner, it is hard to reconcile this issue.

Even before the Prodigal Son series, Koontz tackles Frankenstein and his creation. The Outsider is the perfect archetype for the Creature. The Outsider is a mish-mash of different animals designed to be a fighting and killing machine. Knowing that Einstein is "loved" more than he is, his main goal is to kill the dog. However, even with his desire, he knows what he is -- a patchwork of creatures who cannot be loved. He has been genetically programed to want to kill; however, upon finding his lair, the reader learns that The Outsider is ashamed of his nature. Sadly, it is also aware of its frightful and horrid appearance. It removed the yes of its victims, so it could not be seen. It even admitted during an interview session in the labs that he would like to tear out his own eyes. Like the creature, he is dejecting by his creator and left to fend for itself. (Without getting into the ethical issues, The Outsider cannot more beyond his genetic programming. With the Creature, however, he is conscious of his decisions and the consequences.)

". . . The Outsider was at the back of the barn, beyond the front end of the Toyota, crouched on the concrete of the barn, whimpering and hugging itself with both long, powerful arms. The floor around it was smeared with its blood.

". . . He (Travis) could see the body structure of an ape, maybe a baboon -- something in the simian family, anyway. But it was neither mostly one species nor merely a patchwork of recognizable parts of many animals. It was, instead, a thing unto itself. With it's oversized and lumpish face, immense yellow eyes, steam-shovel jaw, and long curved teeth, with its hunched back and matted coat and too-long arms, it attained a frightful individuality." --page 396

In addition, Vince's character seemed a little trivial. He presented another obstacle for Travis, Nora, and Einstein to deal with; however, once the book comes to an end, he seems unimportant. Several times it is mentioned that Vince can absorb the life energy of his victims. He also thinks that, with enough energy, he will become immortal. While this is interesting, Koontz didn't spend enough time on him. In a few sentences, from the character himself, the reader is vaguely and briefly told Vince's explanation. Koontz built him up, but after the climax, it just fizzled out. It would have been better to take him out of the picture, or make him a little more peripheral character.

Aside from these issue, I enjoyed the book. Last night I stayed up crying over Einstein's battle with distemper. After watching man loved family dogs die, I cannot watch movies like Old Yeller or read Marley and Me. The fact that Koontz could illicit this type of response in me shows that he is a talented author.

Rating: 5/5
Currently: Fear Nothing by Dean Koontz
Horror/Urban Fantasy Challenge: 2/24

Book #1 of 2011

1. Title: Ghost Story
Author: Peter Straub
Genre: Horror
Pages: 567
Opening: "What was the worst thing you've ever done?
I won't tell you that, but I'll tell you the worst thing that ever happened to me . . . the most dreadful thing . . ."

"For four aging men in the terror-stricken town of Milburn, New York, an act inadvertently carried out in their youth has come back to haunt them. Now they are about to learn what happens to those you believe they can bury the past -- and get away with murder." ~Jacket copy

Thoughts: Reading all of the reviews about this book online make it clear that it is frightening. Many people said that they couldn't sleep at night while they were reading this book. Even my brother told me not to read it at night. However, for me, it started out fairly slowly. I found myself wondering when it was going to finally pick up. The promise of something happening kept me reading the book. I will admit that the writing wasn't drab or daunting.

It feels as though the author is trying to give the reader an impression of the town, the people, and the relationship these four men have with their community. In that way, Straub sets the stage very well. The growing creep factor seems to start after Sears' first story of Fenny and Gregory. However, like King following in his footsteps, Straub uses the slight, uneasy changes occurring within the community to feed the story.

While the story was very engaging, it took nearly half of the book for the creep factor to set in for me. However, about 150 pages from the end of the novel, I was finding myself hearing weird sounds in the house, strange noises outside in the wind, etc., and that added to the feeling of the book. I felt as though I was in the story with the characters and experiencing the same things. All in all, this book was good and engaging. I found myself tearing through the book because I wanted to know what was going to happen next! I would suggest not reading this book alone or in the dark if you're prone to an overactive imagination!

Rating: 4/5
Horror/Urban Fantasy Reading Challenge: 1/24

Currently: The Watchers by Dean Koontz