99) Pane and Suffering by Cheryl Hollon

The Blurb :

To solve her father's murder and save the family-owned glass shop, Savannah Webb must shatter a killer's carefully constructed façade. . .
After Savannah's father dies unexpectedly of a heart attack, she drops everything to return home to St. Petersburg, Florida, to settle his affairs--including the fate of the beloved, family-owned glass shop. Savannah intends to hand over ownership to her father's trusted assistant and fellow glass expert, Hugh Trevor, but soon discovers the master craftsman also dead of an apparent heart attack.

As if the coincidence of the two deaths wasn't suspicious enough, Savannah discovers a note her father left for her in his shop, warning her that she is in danger. With the local police unconvinced, it's up to Savannah to piece together the encoded clues left behind by her father. And when her father's apprentice is accused of the murders, Savannah is more desperate than ever to crack the case before the killer seizes a window of opportunity to cut her out of the picture. . .

My Thoughts :

I have been trying desperately to stay away from debuts.  I have so much to read and taking on a new series is really not helping the upward struggle of my really high to be read mountain.  However there are just some books that catch your eye.  Pane and Suffering was one of those books.  Maybe I should try and stay away from Netgalley so I won't be tempted by the pretty covers that lead to interesting blurbs that lead to requesting books to review!

Anyway, Pane and Suffering looked promising and I decided to give it a chance.  There were a few aspects that made me click that 'review' button.  First were the references to Florida and Seattle.  I have read some pretty good books based in Florida and I have been to Seattle so my mind did a little dance.  Secondly the glass aspect was something new.  It is a pretty and different craft that I know very little about and reading all these cozies is a learning experience.  Thirdly the codes sounded like fun.  Not just your everyday normal mystery but something with a little more depth.

My reasons for picking up the book weren't the best reasons but they were ones that had me trying this new series.  The location didn't feel like Florida at any time in the book I often forgot about it.  Seattle was mentioned more than Florida but then again story was based in Florida.  The glass aspect was interesting but I don't think I learnt very much from this book.  The author did go into some depth about the process but I had no idea what it all really meant.  A glossary of some of the terms could be found at the end of the book but it was too little too late.  The codes were also very interesting and a very important part of the plot but it wasn't too impressive.

I liked Savannah and the other characters in the book and loved the idea of the glass shop and classes being taught.  The British style pub next door and the community feeling was nice and I hope the author expands on this in future books.  However on many aspects I think the author was trying too hard.  The Glass, the codes, teas, beers, geocaching etc there was just too much going on.  It felt a little like she was trying to show off....or at least Savannah was trying to show off.  It was all too much too soon.

The police side of the investigation was frustrating and I wonder why the author felt she had to have such a weird storyline to make things so slow.  It was annoying for Savannah and for the reader.  Also annoying was the 'will she or won't she stay' when it was pretty obvious from the first page that she was staying.  Otherwise this wouldn't have been the first in a new series about the Webb Glass Shop.  That mystery was solved easily.  The murder mystery wasn't and it kept you guessing till the codes were broken.

While I seem to be a little overly negative about Pane and Suffering, I am in fact happy I read it and will actually recommend it.  It had some faults but for a debut that is nothing unusual.  The series looks like it could be really good and I was left with the 'I want to try more' feeling. I would definitely give the next book a try and look forward to seeing what the author does with the series.  It is well worth giving this one a try and checking out what this new author has to offer.

97) The Scam by Janet Evanovich & Lee Goldberg

The Blurb :

Nicolas Fox is a charming con man and master thief on the run. Kate O’Hare is the FBI agent who is hot on his trail. At least that’s what everyone thinks. In reality, Fox and O’Hare are secretly working together to bring down super-criminals the law can’t touch. Criminals like brutal casino magnate Evan Trace.

Evan Trace is running a money-laundering operation through his casino in Macau. Some of his best customers are mobsters, dictators, and global terrorists. Nick and Kate will have to go deep undercover as high-stakes gamblers, wagering millions of dollars—and their lives—in an attempt to topple Trace’s empire.

It’s a scam that will take Fox and O’Hare from the Las Vegas strip, to the sun-soaked beaches of Oahu’s North Shore, and into the dark back alleys of Macau. Their only backup—a self-absorbed actor, a Somali pirate, and Kate’s father, and an ex-soldier who believes a rocket launcher is the best way to solve every problem. What could possibly go wrong?

My Thoughts :

The fourth installment in the Fox & O'Hare series was one of the better ones.  Maybe I am just used to the characters now or maybe I understand the con better with each experience, whatever the reason, I liked The Scam more than I thought I would.

My other experiences with this series have also been good but I was a little curious about how the series would continue and if it could continue to have that spark that was there in the first couple of books.  I also wasn't sure if I could put up with Evanovich's usual style of 'should she or shouldn't she' with Fox & O'Hare's relationship.  However it may turn out that Goldberg is a good influence on her or is just writing more of the book than she is.

The con this time around was as elaborate as the previous ones with a personal aspect slipped in to keep things interesting.  Once again the con takes the reader around the world and shows them a side of life that is usually reserved for mobsters and terrorists.  If the side the authors are showing is a true picture of what really goes on is not for me to comment on but it makes for great reading and comes across as realistic.

While this series could sound serious and more thriller than cozy mystery, it does have that air of mystery and definitely has the humour and hint of romance that a cozy usually has.  While the humour isn't the constant laugh out loud kind it is a subtle giggle kind.  The romance is part of the humour and isn't too in your face but very present and underlying.

I like the characters and enjoy the situations they get themselves into.  Over the last four books I have gotten to know them all pretty well and look forward to meeting up with them again.  Especially after the cliffhanger ending that the book left me peering over hoping to find at least one more chapter.  It seems the authors have some good ideas that will keep this series from getting boring and will have the readers coming back for more.

111) To The Moon and Back by Jill Mansell

The Blurb :

When Ellie Kendall tragically loses her husband she feels her life is over. But eventually she’s ready for a new start – at work, that is. She doesn’t need a new man when she has a certain secret visitor to keep her company...

Zack McLaren seems to have it all, but the girl he can’t stop thinking about won’t give him a second glance. If only she’d pay him the same attention she lavishes on his dog.

Moving to North London, Ellie meets neighbour Roo who has a secret of her own. Can the girls sort out their lives? Guilt is a powerful emotion, but a lot can happen in a year in Primrose Hill...

My Review :

A long long long time ago before I discovered books filled with vampires, werewolves and other paranormal delights, I used to read other books. A good mystery or thriller maybe even a chick-lit. It depended really on the mood I was in. However lately those genres have been a thing of the past but every now and again I feel like a change and when my favourite chick-lit author, Jill Mansell, brings out a new book I still have to get hold of a copy and read it. Her stories are just too good to not read.

To The Moon and Back is another reason to love Jill Mansell. Filled with emotions that you can either relate to or just sympathise with, her stories tell tales that can and do happen in real life. Her characters don't need time to grow on you because you can't help but adore them within a few pages of meeting them. They are the friends, family and workmates you already feel you have known for years. I nearly stayed up all night reading this one because I felt so at home with the characters.

One thing I really liked about this book and Jill's other books is the 'real' story feel they have to them. Sure there are the usual chick-lit clichés but Jill Mansell manages to surprise the reader by twisiting things around a bit. Being allowed to share the hardest part of Ellie's life is certainly a roller coaster ride of emotions but you just know that things are going to turn out ok in the end.

The way this author weaves her plots together to come to an amazing, if not, teary end, can only be admired. You will laugh and cry while reading this but it will be one of the most amazing pieces of chick-lit you ever read. Oh and the best bit. This is British! Totally lovely and British and not over the top. Jill Mansell remains my favourite chick-lit author who can get me away from the paranormal.

To The Moon and Back released in the UK back in February. The US version is due to be released next month.

83) Hard Spell by Justin Gustainis

Blurb :

Stan Markowski is a Detective Sergeant on the Scranton PD's Supernatural Crimes Investigation Unit.

Like the rest of America, Scranton's got an uneasy 'live and let unlive' relationship with the supernatural. But when a vamp puts the bite on an unwilling victim, or some witch casts the wrong kind of spell, that's when they call Markowski. He carries a badge. Also, a crucifix, some wooden stakes, a big vial of holy water, and a 9mm Beretta loaded with silver bullets.

My Review :

I have obviously been a good girl because the book gods have made my Summer into a Gustaini delight! Not only is book #3 in his Quincy Morris series due out in July but the first in a new series, Hard Spell, is also due out. There are so many books on my 'To Be Read' pile but when a book from Justin Gustainis comes into my possession, well I have to read it.

So when Hard Spell arrived on my Kindle there was no stopping me. The Blurb for the debut in the Supernatural Crimes series was just too good to resist. And I have to start things off by saying that the blurb does not do this book justice. Hard Spell is actually too good for words but I am going to try my best without giving too much away. In a nutshell, I really loved this book.

Think of all the good cop shows you have watched and then the amazing Paranormal Urban Fantasy books you have read. Mix them up and you have Hard Spell. Actually add a great writer and a distinct new fresh look on things and you have Hard Spell. This one really packs a bite and that isn't just from the demons, vamps and weres. The author has a great style and it grabs me each time. Anyone who hasn't tried this author yet really needs too and Hard Spell is a good place to start.

This one made me laugh out loud, made my heart skip a beat and sometimes I even felt like crying. I sped through this one and didn't want to take a break. I loved the concept, sucked up the details and felt like one of the team of the Supernatural Crimes Investigation Unit. The twists and turns were sometimes scary but always super and I never knew what was going to happen next.

Justin Gustainis really makes up for the lack of male writers in the genre and it is refreshing to read a book that isn't drenched in romance or has the typical female lead. I am all for girl power but I loved Stan and his partner and the huge helping of testosterone didn't put me off one bit. It made things interesting. That is not to say there is no female characters, there are a few. However they are not girly or trying to chat up the guys but they do play their parts in the plot very well.

Even better than I imagined this has to be one of the must read new releases this Summer. I can't wait for more from the series and look forward to reading the next case when it comes out. Hopefully sooner rather than later!

Hard Spell releases on the 7th of July.

68) Spellbound by Cara Lynn Schultz

The Blurb :

Life hasn't been easy on sixteen-year-old Emma Conner, so a new start in New York may be just the change she needs. But the posh Upper East Side prep school she has to attend? Not so much. Friendly faces are few and far between, except for one that she's irresistibly drawn to—Brendan Salinger, the guy with the rock-star good looks and the richest kid in school, who might just be her very own white knight.

But even when Brendan inexplicably turns cold, Emma can't stop staring. Ever since she laid eyes on him, strange things have been happening. Streetlamps go out wherever she walks, and Emma's been having the oddest dreams: visions of herself in past lives—visions that warn her to stay away from Brendan. Or else.

My Review :

I will admit straight away that I expected more from this book. The blurb left me with visions of vampires, werewolves or even some ghosts. However what I ended up with was a curse and a maybe witch. Sad but true. This wasn't at all what I planned on reading and I felt a little cheated.

However I will give this book points for romance and for the Young Adult content. This definitely is a book for younger readers who like reading about how horrible school and teenage life can be while trying to get through their own real life. Spellbound will leave a few teenagers happy knowing there are worse off girls in the world and wishing their life was as interesting and cool as Emma's.

Emma was a nice lead character. Although I wanted to hear more about her past and what happened to her family. The focus seemed to be taken away from the fact that she has lost all of her family and pointed to the great life she has now in New York and her love life. Don't get me wrong, everyone should have a Brendan to brighten up their school days but it all seemed a little too perfect.

The fantasy angle in this book was weak and in general this was a teenage love story with a twist. If this had been an amazingly bad story then I wouldn't have read Spellbound till the end. Although it did take a while to actually get to the point of the story and by then I was too far in to give up. I have to admit that I was pulled into the story because I couldn't wait to see what paranormal delights were waiting for me but the last quarter of the book was a bit of a let down once I realised what was going on.

All in all I am pretty sure this is one I would recommend to give as a gift to that young lady in your life, eg. daughter, niece, friends kid. But Spellbound isn't one I am going to recommend to adults. A little too teeny, way too cheesy and quite predictable.

*Spellbound is due for release on the 28th of June*

161) Black Wings by Christina Henry

The Blurb -

As an Agent of Death, Madeline Black is responsible for escorting the souls of the dearly departed to the afterlife. It's a 24/7 job with a lousy benefits package.

Maddy's position may come with magical powers and an impressive wingspan, but it doesn't pay the bills. And then there are her infuriating boss, tenant woes, and a cranky, popcorn-loving gargoyle to contend with.

Things start looking up, though, when tall, dark, and handsome Gabriel Angeloscuro agrees to rent the empty apartment in Maddy's building. It's probably just a coincidence that as soon as he moves in demons appear on the front lawn. But when an unholy monster is unleashed upon the streets of Chicago, Maddy discovers powers she never knew she possessed. Powers linked to a family legacy of tarnished halos.

Powers that place her directly between the light of Heaven and the fires of Hell...

My Review -

Black Wings has been on my radar for a while and I had this one on pre-order and it flew onto my Kindle when it was released. I finally got the chance to read it this week and I had a hard time putting it down. This superb debut took me by surprise because it was even better than I expected. There were a few little points that I may need to think about but all in all I really loved this one.

A new look on things, a great plot and a kick-ass heroine with attitude was a brilliant start. The gargoyle side-kick was a lovely touch and the hint of more supernaturals (they were mentioned) has left me curious. The potential relationship problems to come and the expansion on what has already begun has me hoping the second part comes out sooner rather than later.

The fresh and inventive start to what promises to be an excellent new series was seriously worth putting on pre-order. A strong start and another author to add to the Paranormal Urban Fantasy list of books to buy. If you are looking for a book to buy and read over Christmas then your book vouchers are going to be well spent on this one.

* Christina Henry is my author guest this week! Read the interview and enter the contest and you might win a copy of this book!!! *

160) Tempest's Legacy by Nicole Peeler

The Blurb -

After a peaceful hiatus at home in Rockabill, Jane True thinks that her worst problem is that she still throws like a girl - at least while throwing fireballs. Her peace of mind ends, however, when Anyan arrives one night with terrible news . . . news that will rock Jane's world to its very core.

After demanding to help investigate a series of gruesome attacks on females -- supernatural, halfling, and human -- Jane quickly finds herself forced to confront her darkest nightmares as well as her deepest desires.

And she's not sure which she finds more frightening.

My Review -

Three books into the series and I am well and truly hooked. If I had had time to read this in one go I would have. It was highly frustrating to keep having to eat, sleep and work when I could have been reading this newest addition to the Jane True story. I don't want to give the plot away but there is a lot of sexual tension and relationship developments for Jane as well as some more insight on her mother and how things work in the supernatural filled world she is now becoming a part of.

For anyone who hasn't already tried out this series then you really must be blind. The covers stand out for a mile and so does the story. This is the new Sookie Stackhouse with a broader spectrum of paranormals and more action. Different and original in so many ways this series is definitely making a stand. Could Selkie be the new Fairy?

You won't be disappointed when reading this series and Tempest's Legacy is just another course in the continuing build-up of yummy goodness. If the pages in this series were calories I wouldn't be able to eat another wafer thin mint. Great writing and an amazing plot is mixed together with some unforgettable characters and kick-ass action. Did I mention that this series seriously rocks?

Happy new year for all Jane True fans. This new book comes out at the beginning of January. A great read to start off 2011! Anyone who hasn't had the pleasure of reading the Tempest books yet can use those book vouchers Santa is bringing you to buy the books and read them during the holidays. This series is really not one you want to miss.

138) Eternal Prey by Nina Bangs (Full Review)

The Blurb -

The souls of ancient predators reside in the bodies of not-so-ordinary men. In a modern world of darkness, they are . . .GODS OF THE NIGHT

Once the beast within him is unleashed, Utah won't rest until he destroys the bloodsucking vampires who murdered his brother. But he never expected one of their leaders would be so beautiful, bewitching...so mortal.

Lia's destiny and duty is to stop the renegade vampires intent on annihilating the living-human and non-human races alike. But she never dreamed that Utah, once a deadly foe, would now become her ally and protector...or that loving him would be more dangerous than anything she's ever faced before. For when Utah frees his predator soul, there will be no end to the carnage.

My Review -

I read this book back in October but the publisher asked that the reviews only be made public closer to the release date. So here you go!

**********************

This series has been a must read for me. The first two books, Eternal Pleasure and Eternal Craving were spectacular reads and the concept for the books was so original and unexpected that I couldn't wait for more. Unfortunately there was a long break between the first two books and now there has been another long wait for book three. So when I started this third part I felt a little lost. While the series is unforgettable there was just something different about this one and it didn't feel the same as the previous installments.

The dinosaurs were there and the vampires were also present. What else could you want? The idea alone gave me goosebumps back when I read Eternal Pleasure but Eternal Prey didn't have enough dinosaur for my liking. Also some of the on-going plot was missing from my memory. It has been a while and I have read so many books since Eternal Craving. Things were a little fuzzy and I needed a little bit more background to be able to understand what was happening next.

Despite my problems, Eternal Prey was a good read. The author has got right balance of paranormal fantasy and romance in the story and some great strong characters. However, in my honest opinion, this new addition to the series was not the best so far. Nothing jumped out as special and amazing. The plot was not as thrilling and addictive. Somehow this book either caught me at a bad time or it just didn't have the same magic that the previous two books had.

Of course this series has a special place in my heart and I am not going to give up on it. I want to know what happens in 2012. However on the other hand if the books keep coming out with such a long break between them, well it will be 2020 before we find out, from the perspective of this series, what happens in 2012.

If you enjoyed the first two books then you have to read this. Reward yourself for waiting so long and maybe skim through the previous books to refresh your memory. Anyone who hasn't yet tried this series, well you have to try it. It is really good but maybe wait until you can buy the whole series at once. I am not sure how many are planned but hopefully book four will be with us sooner, rather than later.

Eternal Prey will be released on the 28th of December.

138) Eternal Prey by Nina Bangs

The Blurb -

The souls of ancient predators reside in the bodies of not-so-ordinary men. In a modern world of darkness, they are . . .GODS OF THE NIGHT

Once the beast within him is unleashed, Utah won't rest until he destroys the bloodsucking vampires who murdered his brother. But he never expected one of their leaders would be so beautiful, bewitching...so mortal.

Lia's destiny and duty is to stop the renegade vampires intent on annihilating the living-human and non-human races alike. But she never dreamed that Utah, once a deadly foe, would now become her ally and protector...or that loving him would be more dangerous than anything she's ever faced before. For when Utah frees his predator soul, there will be no end to the carnage.

My Review -

Eternal Prey will be released on the 28th of December. The publisher has asked that all reviews be made public the month of release. Therefore I am posting just a couple of lines from my review and the full version will be posted on the 1st of December.

The first two books, Eternal Pleasure and Eternal Craving were spectacular reads and the concept for the books was so original and unexpected that I couldn't wait for more.

The idea alone gave me goosebumps back when I read Eternal Pleasure.

The author has got right balance of paranormal fantasy and romance in the story and some great strong characters.

130) Immortal : Beloved by Cate Tiernan

The Blurb -

Nastasya has spent the last century living as a spoiled, drugged-out party girl. She feels nothing and cares for no one. But when she witnesses her best friend, a Dark Immortal, torture a human, she realizes something's got to change. She seeks refuge at a rehab for wayward immortals, where she meets the gorgeous, undeniably sexy Reyn, who seems inexplicably linked to her past.

Nastasya finally begins to deal with life, and even feels safe--until the night she learns that someone wants her dead.

My Review -

Cate Tiernan is the author of the very successful Sweep and Balefire books and I have been waiting eagerly to hear that she would be bringing out a new series. So when I saw Immortal : Beloved I ordered it straight away. I was addicted to her other books and I was sure that this one would not let me down. I was right. If anything I think Cate has out done herself with this new trilogy.

The imagination this author has is amazing. Such detail and depth goes into each book and you never know how things are going to pan out. I was captivated with this new offering from the first chapter on and didn't want to put this book down. Beloved had everything I hoped it would have and a bit more. It is only a shame that the next book doesn't come out for a year.

Magick and immortality come together to make a paranormal romantic historical delight. This may be aimed at Young readers but the main characters are all hundreds of years old so nobody will feel lost in this book. Younger readers may just learn from some of the mistakes the characters in this book have made but older readers will just be able nod and agree. Fantasy vs. Facts in this book but it is clear to see what is what. Ideal for any paranormal loving reader.

Now I have the worst part to get through. The wait. A trilogy that makes me wait a year for the next book is really not what I expected but it was only when I saw the last page that I also found out what was in store. However Cate Tiernan is a YA author that I would highly recommend to anyone. Even mothers looking for something good for their Teenage daughters. Maybe this one will land in a few Christmas Stockings?

96) Night Myst by Yasmine Galenorn

A long time ago, vampires tried to turn the Dark Fae so they could harness their magic. Their attempts backfired and all they succeeded in doing was to create a demonic enemy, an enemy more powerful than they could imagine. Now Myst, the Fae Queen of the Indigo Court, has gained enough power to begin the prophesied supernatural war. She has been collecting power from many of the inhabitants of New Forest and even if the police seem oblivious to the fact, others have noticed.

Cicely Waters is a witch who can control the wind and may be the only person who can stop Myst. It has been years since she has set foot in New Forest but after learning that her family is in danger she knows she has to return. Seeing Grieve again is something she was looking forward to but was also scared about. So when he appears and Cicely realises he has been enslaved by Myst's court she knows that not only does she need to save her family but she also has to save her lover.

I have been a fan of Yasmine Galenorn's now for quite a few years and when this book arrived the other day I couldn't wait to start it. Of course it didn't take long for me pick it up despite all the the other unread books that should have gotten read first. After all Yasmine's books call strongly to the reader before even the first word has been read.

New rules, new enemies, new magic and new powers are the main elements you can expect from the start of this series. The pace of the book is fast, furious and filled with power. The plot is full of twists, turns and surprises. This book has the usual passion and emotion that I associate with Yasmine's books and once again the author has come up with a fantastic magical world worth reading about.

Somewhat dramatic at times it is of course, as with any new series, a little difficult at first to keep up with everything. The who is who and what is what is a bit overwhelming at the beginning and if you blink you may just miss something important. However after a time it all starts falling into place and I found myself just enjoying the flow of the story and getting to know all the new and unusual characters.

I will admit that while this new book has left me thirsty for more, I am still a big fan of the Otherworld series and Night Myst hasn't taken away the crown from the Sisters. Only time will tell what the Indigo Court series will bring but rest assured I will be there when it comes. Paranormal Urban Fantasy has a good friend in Yasmine Galenorn and she rewards the genre each time.

94) Spider's Bite by Jennifer Estep

She is the most feared assassin in the South but when she isn't out killing people she is busy cooking in the Pork Pit. She is a Stone elemental and has some Ice magic running through her veins. She is the Spider and she is a professional killer.

Double-crossed and out for revenge, Gin a.k.a The Spider, is ready to kill anyone who gets in her way. Gin only takes out the bad guys, the ones who deserve it, and these guys really need to be put down. But there is trouble and that trouble is the law. Donovan Caine has reluctantly agreed to help Gin but he is also a bit of a distraction. Battling a magic that is more powerful than her own, the last thing Gin needs is for her mind to wander, especially when the detective is one of the people who wants to see her dead.

So I heard from friends that this was an amazing read. I got the book a while back but it has been struggling to keep itself on the top of my to be read pile. Finally this book saw the light and got picked up yesterday and within a few chapters I was kicking myself for not getting around to this one earlier.

Yes this book is so good that you will be annoyed with yourself for not reading it sooner. I was hooked within pages and already looking to see if there was a second book by the time I was halfway through. When pay day comes I think the next part in the series, Web of Lies, is accidentally going to find its way into my hands. I need to know what happens next.

Spider's Bite is original and has a lot of depth. I was totally taken by surprise seeing as my previous encounter with this author was very different. A superb plot and amazing characters all came together and made this a read to remember. Brilliant urban fantasy and so unusual and new. I was in my element and scared to take a break.

There was a little cliffhanger ending that really has me itching to read more. If you are looking for some with thrills, kills and a kick-ass leading lady then look no further. I may have made a late start with this series but I am going to be catching up with it up real soon.

35) Hard Magic by Laura Anne Gilman

College grad, magic user and unemployed Bonnie Torres gets an interesting but strange call for what she hopes is a job interview. She has no idea what the job is for or if she even applied for it. The message was short and the only details she is given is a time and place. Her mentor J isn't really happy about her even contemplating going to the meeting but Bonnie needs a job.

After a very unusual interview, Bonnie finds herself being a part of the Private, Unaffiliated, Paranormal Investigations or PUPI for short. The team is made up of 5 people who are expected to mix magic and forensics to solve cases that the normal police can't. Their first job isn't easy. Trying to prove that a double suicide was in fact murder has them stumped and with their combined lack of experience it makes things even harder. Also there are people who don't want to see PUPI exist in any way shape or form. That makes this job more interesting that Bonnie could ever imagine.

I have to admit that my knowledge of this author is practically zilch. I remember picking up one of her Retriever books a few years ago and for some reason it didn't grab my interest. However this new series did capture my attention. Magic combined with forensics totally caught my eye and I had to give this one a try.

Hard Magic wasn't a bad read. Being the first in a series the first half of this book was really laying the foundations and I admit I enjoyed discovering this new concept and character. The author has managed to create something different and although I believe this series links to the Retrievers in some way it made no difference to this story that I haven't read the other books.

A little slower that I expected I did really like the forensics and magical aspect of this book. The writing style, characters and location also kept me reading this to the end but I think I need a second book in this series to make a final judgement. This was certainly worth reading but I felt like Hard Magic is just the start of something bigger and that there are more greater things to come.

One thing I have to say about this book is that it has reawakened my interest in the Retrievers series. If they are anything like Hard Magic then I definitely want to try them again. Off to add the first one to my wishlist!

Hard Magic is due out in May.

The Retrievers Series -

Staying Dead
Curse in the Dark
Bring it On
Burning Bridges
Free Fall
Blood From Stone

176) Eve of Darkness by S. J. Day

A long time ago, Evangeline Hollis, had a fling with a bad boy who she never saw again. So when a guy who looks just like him seduces her she does something she wouldn't usually do and lets him in. Literally. However the mystery guy marks her and the next thing she knows that bad boy she hasn't seen for so many years is at her door.

Eve finds herself thrown into a work where people are drafted into service to kill demons. With lots to learn about the new world she has found herself in she is lucky to have brothers Cain and Abel to help and fight over her.

Everything is new and different now but Eve doesn't have time to learn. She has to keep herself alive and kill the bad guys. If all goes well she can get her mark removed and go back to a normal life. If getting it removed is at all possible.

This series was being thrown at me from all directions. Adverts, reviews and even Amazon recommendations had me wondering if I was missing out on something good. However the look of the cover didn't really impress me to much and the blurb didn't leave me eager to take a chance on something new. So I left this on my wishlist and was worried when a friend sent me a copy. It meant I had to try it!

How wrong could I have been. I broke the age old rule. Never judge a book by its cover. This debut was addictive enough to keep me grabbing at it all day to the point that I finished it in record time. The blurb could also be to blame for my lack of eagerness to try this book but the first two chapters had me hooked. Starting the story with the end was a brilliant way to grab readers and it certainly worked on me.

Demons and angels aside this book has so much Paranormal Urban Fantasy inside that it is a wonder it doesn't explode. I like Eve alot and hope that she stays strong enough to defeat whatever comes for her next. Cain and Abel sound delicious and I had no problems reading about their sexual exploits. I can foresee alot more of action where they are concerned.

This impressed me and I can't wait to get my hands on the next two books. I love how different this was and how full of action it was. It is always great to find a new author and I just wish that I had gotten hold of this one earlier. I am recommending this to anyone who love Urban Fantasy and hot guys ;)

148) Afterlife by Guy Smith

The Blurb -

After death, one soon discovers that every theologian was right. The afterlife offers too many inconvenient options including the chance at reincarnation, a boring existence as a ghost, the ultimate demise of oblivion or a short walk into the great unknown on the other side of The Light.

AFTERLIFE is a humorous yet tragic tale that forces everyone rethink their postmortem prejudices. If you think life is frustrating, try death.

My Review -

This novella about the afterlife seemed at first to be a little on the depressing side. However once the whole 'death' thing was over and done with things got interesting.

The Afterlife is a subject people can argue about forever and certain people have their own certain views on how the afterlife works. In this short story Guy Smith has give us yet another fresh alternative look on the afterlife and given it a little humour and alot of ghosts.

The little twists and turns in the story kept me reading and finding out how things really 'end' also make me want to read to the last word. There is something for everyone in Afterlife and it made for a nice quick read. In a whole it left me hoping that if there is an Afterlife, hopefully it will be a little like the one in this story.