REVIEW: I Know What You Did Last Summer by Lois Duncan (2010 edit)

They didn't mean it. They didn't mean to hit the boy. There was a party, and it was an accident...that wasn't who they were. They were pre-law, a football player, bound for New York. No one could know, so Barry, Julie, Helen, and Ray swore one another to secrecy. But now, a year later, someone knows. Julie receives a haunting, anonymous threat: "I know what you did last summer." The dark lie is unearthed, and before the four friends know it they need to outsmart a killer...or they will be the next to die.

This blast from the past rounded out my 2017 Reading Challenge list. I'd never read the actual novel but know the last 90's film well. While some of the details are different, the premise is the same: a joy-riding teens accidentally kill a pedestrian and run from the scene. A year later, they begin getting messages that someone knows the truth, bad things happen.

I listened to the 2010 re-edit. From what I can tell some of the narrative is modernized and the characters mention cell phones. Honestly, I was not too impressed by the book but can see its appeal when it was originally published. More editing and characterization needs to happen before this would appeal to contemporary audiences.

Final rating: 2 out of 5 stars

Highlighted Reads - December 2017

Southern Eclectic #0.5

Molly Harper is back with another charming southern based series full of wit, romance and enough crazy characters to keep readers laughing and begging for more.  Welcome to the charming small town of Lake Sackett, Georgia!

Carl and Marianne were high school sweethearts, loving the way only teenagers can—with no thought to logic or pride, just a bone-headed, optimistic frenzy of unicorns and hormones. That was all they needed. Or so Carl thought.

Scared of being stuck in Lake Sackett, like so many of her friends—without a real shot at a future or achieving her own dreams—Marianne panicked and bolted to college after stomping Carl’s heart. But when she returns for the summer with her family after years away, she and Carl are drawn together like moths to a flame. As they rekindle their old romance and remember what it was like to be in love, they have to wonder: is this, finally, their real chance at happiness?

Everything a Harper fan could ever want in a short story--good structure, memorable characters, humor, romance, a bit of angst and a happy ending! The story's only downside is that is I was left wanting more. I love Carl and Marianne and wish they had gotten their own full length book rather than this little nibble. Audiobook fans will be pleased to know Amanda Ronconi is back for another fantastic performance!

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Southern Eclectic #1

(Publisher's Summary) -- Nestled on the shore of Lake Sackett, Georgia is the McCready Family Funeral Home and Bait Shop. (What, you have a problem with one-stop shopping?) Two McCready brothers started two separate businesses in the same building back in 1928, and now it’s become one big family affair. And true to form in small Southern towns, family business becomes everybody’s business.

Margot Cary has spent her life immersed in everything Lake Sackett is not. As an elite event planner, Margot’s rubbed elbows with the cream of Chicago society, and made elegance and glamour her business. She’s riding high until one event goes tragically, spectacularly wrong. Now she’s blackballed by the gala set and in dire need of a fresh start—and apparently the McCreadys are in need of an event planner with a tarnished reputation.

As Margot finds her footing in a town where everybody knows not only your name, but what you had for dinner last Saturday night and what you’ll wear to church on Sunday morning, she grudgingly has to admit that there are some things Lake Sackett does better than Chicago—including the dating prospects. Elementary school principal Kyle Archer is a fellow fish-out-of-water who volunteers to show Margot the picture-postcard side of Southern living. The two of them hit it off, but not everybody is happy to see an outsider snapping up one of the town's most eligible gentleman. Will Margot reel in her handsome fish, or will she have to release her latest catch?

(My Thoughts) -- Let me count the ways I loved this book! 
1) Amanda Ronconi narrates the audiobook. She's perfect as usual.  
2) The humor - no one writes charming, wacky characters and families quite like Harper. 
3) The romance - the perfect blend of fun, angsty, a little sexual tension and a fairy tale ending.
4) The setting - what a great little fictional southern town full of great narrative potential!

I can't wait for the next book!!!!

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Oberon's Meaty Mysteries #2

Oberon is off to Portland to smell all the things with canine companions Orlaith and Starbuck, and, of course, his human, ancient Druid Atticus O’Sullivan. The first complication is an unmistakable sign of sinister agendas afoot: a squirrel atop the train. But an even more ominous situation is in store when the trio plus Atticus stumble across a murder upon arrival at the station. 

They recognize Detective Gabriela Ibarra, who’s there to investigate. But they also recognize the body—or rather that the body is a doppelganger for Atticus himself. The police, hampered by human senses of smell and a decided lack of canine intuition, obviously can’t handle this alone. Not with Atticus likely in danger. Oberon knows it’s time to investigate once more-—for justice! For gravy! And possibly greasy tacos!

Together they navigate by nose through Portland to find a bear-shifter friend with intel, delicious clues at the victim’s home, and more squirrels. Always more squirrels!

This is another super fun  novella meant to serve as a companion read to the Iron Druid Chronicles. Oberon remains one of my favorite supporting characters in any series I read.  His narrative voice (as written by Hearne and literally voiced by Luke Daniels) is honest and hilarious--basically how I imagine Scooby Doo might be if he lived with a 2000 year old Druid rather than a stoner. What's better is Hearne's ability to give each canine their own distinctive personality.  I always love Atticus too, but he really takes a back seat in these mysteries. 

A superb, fun, novella perfect for a hilarious but well developed read.  The audiobook is a real treat too!

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Hercule Poirot #10

What more can a mystery addict desire than a much-loathed murder victim found aboard the luxurious Orient Express with multiple stab wounds, thirteen likely suspects, an incomparably brilliant detective in Hercule Poirot, and the most ingenious crime ever conceived?

This read satisfied part of my 2017 Reading Challenge and is our Third Monday Book Club selection for January 2018.  I knew the basic premise of the story even though I'd never read the book or seen any of the film adaptations.  Basic plot - there's a murder on the Orient Express with a limited number of suspects...so...whodunnit?  Poirot is conveniently there to conduct an investigation!

Overall, it is a great basis for a mystery; however, I'm less of a fan of how antiquated and stereotypical Agatha Christie's novels feel in the year 2017. I dislike the biased and rather prejudice voice and characterization that occurs throughout this book and others I've read.  For me, it dampers my ability to connect with the story. I am curious to finally watch the various film versions.

Final rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Crown & Key #2

When monster-hunter Malcolm MacFarlane comes across the gruesome aftermath of a ritual murder in a London church, he enlists the help of magician-scribe Simon Archer and alchemist extraordinaire Kate Anstruther. Studying the macabre scene, they struggle to understand obscure clues in the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics carved into the victim’s heart—as well as bizarre mystical allusions to the romantic poetry of William Blake. One thing is clear: Some very potent black magic is at work.
 
But this human sacrifice is only the first in a series of ritualized slayings. Desperate to save lives while there is still time, Simon, Kate, and Malcolm—along with gadget geek Penny Carter and Charlotte, an adolescent werewolf—track down a necromancer who is reanimating the dead. As the team battles an unrelenting army of undead, a powerful Egyptian mummy, and serpentine demons, the necromancer proves elusive. And when the true purpose of the ritual is revealed, the gifted allies must confront a destructive force that is positively apocalyptic.

The series hits its stride with book 2--the characters have developed and are really beginning to function as a group and even like a family. There is romance and some good flirtation between Kate and Simon.  I particularly was intrigued by Malcolm's struggle to accept those he would previously consider monsters. Altogether, this was a fun read that is just the kind of imaginative Victorian steampunk that I enjoy.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars


Crown & Key #3

Gaios, a deranged demigod, who is hell-bent on summoning the elemental forces of the earth to level London and bury Britain. The Crown and Key Society, a secret league consisting of a magician, an alchemist, and a monster-hunter, is the realm’s only hope—and to stop Gaios, they must gather their full strength and come together as a team, or the world will fall apart.

But Simon, the Crown and Key’s leader and the last living magician-scribe, has lost his powers. As Gaios searches for the Stone of Scone, which will give him destructive dominion over the land, monster-hunter Malcolm , alchemist extraordinaire Kate, gadget geek Penny, and Charlotte the werewolf scramble to reconnect Simon to his magic before the world as they know it is left forever in ruins.  

This book is a page turner from beginning to end. Will Simon get his powers back?  Will the Society save Britain? Will Kate discover a cure for her sister?  So many questions!  Luckily, they are all answered and then some :)

The only downside to this book is that it seems like the final one in the series! I wanted more--there are hints that the Society's mission will still continue but we'll have to wait and see if we ever get any of those stories in the future.

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

REVIEW: Between the Blade and the Heart by Amanda Hocking

*Thank you to Netgalley and Wednesday Books for an ARC in exchange for a review*

Expected publication: January 2, 2018

Valkyries have one great responsibility: to return immortals to the afterlife by slaying them. As a Valkyrie, Malin has always known that the balance of the world rests on her ability to carry out orders. But when Malin discovers that her mother spared the life of an immortal who was destined to die, her world is thrown into chaos. 

Malin not only wrestles with the knowledge that her mother might not be who she thought—she’s also thrust into the path of a gorgeous blue eyed guy named Asher who needs her help slaying the rogue immortal who destroyed his family. The balance of the world is at stake. And, as Asher competes with Malin’s ex for her love and loyalty, so is her heart.

This was an interesting read which delves both into significant character and world building. I enjoyed the fresh take on some of the Norse mythology.  Malin is a complicated character with potential for growth. She's likeable in her indecisiveness, especially her love life. I do want to see her open up a bit more. I liked the secondary characters as well. 

One hope for improvement is to provide a villain with some additional depth. I found myself wanting a bit more in this avenue. Otherwise, I enjoyed this book like I have Hocking's other titles. It is ideal for an older teen transitioning into New Adult who enjoys urban fantasy, mythology and a bit of romance.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

REVIEW: The Emerald Circus by Jane Yolen

*Thanks to Netgalley and Tachyon for an ARC in exchange for a review*

Enter the Emerald Circus and be astonished by the transformations of your favorite tales. Ringmaster and internationally bestselling author Jane Yolen (Briar Rose, Sister Emily’s Lightship) spins modern fantasy classics in tales that go well beyond Wonderland and Oz, down the rabbit hole and back again.

Where is Wendy? Leading a labor strike against the Lost Boys, of course! A girl blown away from Kansas returns as a sophisticate with unusual gymnastic abilities. A talented apprentice, forging her first sword, is suddenly left to the mercies of Merlin. Alice’s infamous nemesis has jaws and claws, but also lacks the essential: a sense of humor.

Witty and bold, and unexpected, these tales go well beyond the rabbit hole and back again.

Table of Contents

Andersen’s Witch - I enjoyed this one and it's rift on Hans Christian Andersen
Lost Girls - quite possibly my favorite of the whole book besides the reimaginings of Oz and Alice.
Tough Alice - LOVED IT!
Blown Away - LOVED IT!
A Knot of Toads - I was very surprised by this story but enjoyed it.
The Quiet Monk - not a standout for me as a reader
The Bird - quite mysterious, loved the Poe vibe!
Belle Bloody Merciless Dame - just okay for me
Jewel in the Toad Queen’s Crown - same, just okay not a favorite
A Gift of Magicians - not a standout for me as a reader
Rabbit Hole - another favorite.
Our Lady of the Greenwood - a spin on Robin Hood
The Confession of Brother Blaise - not a standout for me as a reader
Wonder Land - short but packs a punch.
Evian Steel - extremely intriguing and engaging, sort of a prequel to King Arthur
Sister Emily’s Lightship - Emily Dickinson!!!! 

Overall, this was a well written collection of stories.  Yolen is a master of her craft.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

REVIEW: "Death and Night" by Roshani Chokshi

Before The Star-Touched Queen there was only Death and Night.

He was Lord of Death, cursed never to love. She was Night incarnate, destined to stay alone. After a chance meeting, they wonder if, perhaps, they could be meant for more. But danger crouches in their paths, and the choices they make will set them on a journey that will span lifetimes.

Death and Night is a lovely prequel novella to The Star-Touched Queen. Rich description, depth of characters, mystery, intrigue and romance. Chokshi's writing is so lush, I enjoy each word.

This works nicely as a standalone but also as the starting point for the other books.  Looking forward to the other novellas in 2018.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

REVIEW: Into the Drowning Deep by Mira Grant

*Thank you to Netgalley and Orbit for an ARC in exchange for a review*

Seven years ago, the Atargatis set off on a voyage to the Mariana Trench to film a “mockumentary” bringing to life ancient sea creatures of legend. It was lost at sea with all hands. Some have called it a hoax; others have called it a maritime tragedy.

Now, a new crew has been assembled. But this time they’re not out to entertain. Some seek to validate their life’s work. Some seek the greatest hunt of all. Some seek the truth. But for the ambitious young scientist Victoria Stewart this is a voyage to uncover the fate of the sister she lost.

Into the Drowning Deep was a stellar horror novel with a truly inventive foe. I'm from the generation where mermaids should be red haired, sing, collection flatware and be BFFs with fish, crabs and seagulls.  Grant has deftly crafted a dark, suspense filled addition to the horror genre that echos Hans Christian Andersen's macabre classic fairy tale, "The Little Mermaid." 

Excellent pacing and build of intriguing characters surrounded by uncertainty and some truly creepy creatures.  What I did like was Grant's ability to give the mermaid/sirens depth and develop the idea that they might be intelligent and deadly but only out of necessity as the characters (and the readers) learn more about them and why they behavior the way the do.  I'm looking forward to the develpment of this as a series since there is huge potential for more narrative based on Into the Drowning Deep's ending. 

Final rating: 5 out of 5 stars

REVIEW: Wonder Woman: Warbringer by Leigh Bardugo

Princess Diana longs to prove herself to her legendary warrior sisters. But when the opportunity finally comes, she throws away her chance at glory and breaks Amazon law—risking exile—to save a mortal. Diana will soon learn that she has rescued no ordinary girl, and that with this single brave act, she may have doomed the world.

Alia Keralis just wanted to escape her overprotective brother with a semester at sea. She doesn’t know she is being hunted by people who think her very existence could spark a world war. Soon Alia learns that she is a Warbringer—a direct descendant of the infamous Helen of Troy, fated to bring about an age of bloodshed and misery.

Together, Alia and Diana must face uncertainty while trying to bring and end to the chaotic Warbringer legacy so that Alia can live in peace. Along the way they encounter some deadly human and immortal foes as well as acquire helpful allies.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. Wonderful and detailed character building for an iconic heroine. Bardugo excells with the level of engaging characterization. I like this young and modern version of Diana and the echo to ideas introduced for the 2016 film are lovely. I also enjoyed Alia's journey as well as the supporting characters, Nim and Theo.

This was a fast paced, exciting read with some great twists. Excellent for superhero fans as well as those who enjoy some adventure, mythology, fantasy and strong heroines.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

REVIEW: The Dazzling Heights by Katharine McGee

The Dazzling Heights is the second book in this futuristic YA series fill of romance, angst, mystery a la Gossip Girl. 

New York City, 2118. Manhattan is home to a thousand-story supertower, a breathtaking marvel that touches the sky. But amid high-tech luxury and futuristic glamour, five teenagers are keeping dangerous secrets…

Leda is haunted by memories of what happened on the worst night of her life. She’ll do anything to make sure the truth stays hidden—even if it means trusting her enemy. She redeems herself and became, at least for me, a tad bit more likeable but she's not perfect by a long shot.

Watt just wants to put everything behind him…until Leda forces him to start hacking again. Will he do what it takes to be free of her for good? Still one of the most interesting characters for me but I have a feeling that the whole 'Nadia' deal is going to explode soon.

When Rylin wins a scholarship to an upper-floor school, her life transforms overnight. But being there also means seeing the boy whose heart she broke, and who broke hers in return. I feel bad for Rylin because she's got great potential but still keeps getting swept up into less than desirable circumstances.

Avery is tormented by her love for the one person in the world she can never have. She’s desperate to be with him…no matter the cost. I am SUPER over Avery and her tumultuous, forbidden relationship.  She comes across as immature and too annoying for me to connect with her.

And then there’s Calliope, the mysterious, bohemian beauty who arrives in New York determined to cause a stir. And she knows exactly where to begin. The introduction of Calliope was an interesting twist. She's bound to keep causing trouble.

Overall, I was really satisfied with this book. It is engaging and had a superb cliffhanger of an ending. I can't help thinking that this would be a fun television series!

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

REVIEW: The Hunt by Chloe Neill

When bounty hunter Liam Quinn discovered that Claire Connolly was a Sensitive and infected with magic, he should have turned her in to be locked up in the prison district known as Devil's Isle. Instead, he helped her learn to control her power and introduced her to an underground group of Paranormals and humans who know the truth about the war and those who fought it.

Now the weight of Liam's own secrets has forced him into hiding. When a government agent is killed and Claire discovers that Liam is the prime suspect, she races to find him before the government can. But she'll discover proving his innocence is no simple matter. Their enemies are drawing closer, and time is running out.

The Hunt picks up several weeks after the end of book two. Liam is MIA after his magical pick me up, Claire is feeling uncertain but readers hope those two will actually communicate and figure out they are better together. Our heroine is also in for some harsh truths about her past that shed light on their current predicament and the future of NOLA and the world itself.

This was an entertaining installment to the series and a good set up for a lot more to come in following books. I did find Liam's last line a bit corny but it works for the next book. Well developed urban fantasy with a post apocalyptic twist. Neill continues to write quality, original works.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

REVIEW: Frankie by Shivaun Plozza

Expected publication: November 7, 2017 (hardcover)

Frankie Vega is a angry young girl. Most anyone would agree. Such as the guy whose nose she broke; the cop investigating the burglary she witnessed; or her cheating ex-boyfriend or her aunt who's tired of giving second chances. 

When a young kid shows up claiming to be Frankie's half-brother, Xavier, it opens the door to a past she doesn't want to remember. Xavier goes missing and the only person willing to help is a boy with stupidly blue eyes, Nate, who has secrets of his own. Frankie's search for the truth sheds light on some harsh realities and forces her to face harsh facts that will forever change her life.

I enjoyed this book.  There was good pacing, plot development and character building--just enough intrigue with some romantic tension and surprising revelations. Frankie is hard as nails, sassy and funny but vulnerable.

Final rating: 3 out of 5 stars