I’m not usually a big mystery fan because I prefer more time spent on relationships and character growth than the linear nature straight-up mysteries I’m not usually a big mystery fan because I prefer more time spent on relationships and character growth than the linear nature straight-up mysteries afford. HOWEVER, I have read almost every single mystery Ms. Swank has ever written beginning with her very first Rose Gardner book. And that is because she takes time to develop amazing relationships and character growth, all while penning some of the best mystery storylines out there.
In this, the first of a new series, we are introduced to a brand new character while re-visiting a much beloved (to me) character from previous series. James *Skeeter* Malcom is a shady but extremely complex character who is also immensely loyal and honorable (in his own way). He is a straight shooter, brash with little time for finesse or BS. He has also run a world-wide crime syndicate, spent time in prison and is an enigma with layers bone deep. Bottom line, he is probably the reason fans like myself are so excited for this new series and one new fans will quickly become addicted to!
Harper, a new character in the DG Swank universe, is a bit more iffy for me. She is a disgraced police detective whose dismissal is mired in questions (for which the answers will most assuredly come to light little by little as the series continues). She has returned to her hometown only to become a raging but still functioning alcoholic. Even when she is searching for her friend’s daughter, who has been kidnapped, she uses alcohol to get her through and often drinks herself into a stupor at night.
Now, I am sure the author will slowly rehabilitate her and there are all kinds of opportunities for growth (obviously) that will be interesting but you can also see why some (myself included) may have a hard time connecting with her. She has understandably gone through some of the worst that life can throw at her and one can understand her struggle. But, at this point I couldn’t find a lot to like about her aside from trying to help her friend. There wasn’t much of a personality shown aside from the drinking.
The mystery aspect is what makes this first installment shine. It is as good as this author is known for. The villain is always a surprise (although I did amazingly guess this one pretty early… probably because I’m such a fan that I can guess at the weird turns this author’s mind may take!). And the journey is assuredly an un-put-downable ride!
Merged review:
I’m not usually a big mystery fan because I prefer more time spent on relationships and character growth than the linear nature straight-up mysteries afford. HOWEVER, I have read almost every single mystery Ms. Swank has ever written beginning with her very first Rose Gardner book. And that is because she takes time to develop amazing relationships and character growth, all while penning some of the best mystery storylines out there.
In this, the first of a new series, we are introduced to a brand new character while re-visiting a much beloved (to me) character from previous series. James *Skeeter* Malcom is a shady but extremely complex character who is also immensely loyal and honorable (in his own way). He is a straight shooter, brash with little time for finesse or BS. He has also run a world-wide crime syndicate, spent time in prison and is an enigma with layers bone deep. Bottom line, he is probably the reason fans like myself are so excited for this new series and one new fans will quickly become addicted to!
Harper, a new character in the DG Swank universe, is a bit more iffy for me. She is a disgraced police detective whose dismissal is mired in questions (for which the answers will most assuredly come to light little by little as the series continues). She has returned to her hometown only to become a raging but still functioning alcoholic. Even when she is searching for her friend’s daughter, who has been kidnapped, she uses alcohol to get her through and often drinks herself into a stupor at night.
Now, I am sure the author will slowly rehabilitate her and there are all kinds of opportunities for growth (obviously) that will be interesting but you can also see why some (myself included) may have a hard time connecting with her. She has understandably gone through some of the worst that life can throw at her and one can understand her struggle. But, at this point I couldn’t find a lot to like about her aside from trying to help her friend. There wasn’t much of a personality shown aside from the drinking.
The mystery aspect is what makes this first installment shine. It is as good as this author is known for. The villain is always a surprise (although I did amazingly guess this one pretty early… probably because I’m such a fan that I can guess at the weird turns this author’s mind may take!). And the journey is assuredly an un-put-downable ride!...more
I can’t believe I completely forgot to review this book last year when I originally read it! I thoroughly enjoy this series and do remember this book I can’t believe I completely forgot to review this book last year when I originally read it! I thoroughly enjoy this series and do remember this book did not disappoint. I just wish I retained the particulars, sadly all I have is the overall remembrance of a book well read....more
This is an enjoyable read for anyone who just wants to check their brain out and enjoy a nice romp to escape with. It’s insta-love at its highest and This is an enjoyable read for anyone who just wants to check their brain out and enjoy a nice romp to escape with. It’s insta-love at its highest and is definitely surface only. But, it is filled with all the warmth of family and friendship with the secondary characters really standing out to lift and move the story along. ...more
Super riveting and emotional read! It starts with an absolutely gripping and heart-rending scene as Ilya (FMC) has to watch her kingdom absolutely desSuper riveting and emotional read! It starts with an absolutely gripping and heart-rending scene as Ilya (FMC) has to watch her kingdom absolutely destroyed and the people she loves slaughtered. Then, she is taken by Lucien (MMC), the man responsible for all the destruction at the hands of his emperor.
It is a gripping tale full of rich storylines and deep emotions, as Ilya must live in and with the very people who annihilated everything and everyone she loves. As time goes one, however, she sees small chinks in the strength and armor of the emperor’s kingdom and she learns that Lucien isn’t quite the person she assumed him to be. His devotion to his liege is layered, yet perplexing. Oh, so much to unpack in one book! The relationship between Ilya and Lucien could have used more time and depth so we can actually buy into the changes and understand the motivations behind them. But, everything else is pure reading addiction!...more
Still loving every single minute spent in this world, with these characters and with this story. Each one is pure fun and enjoyment. I’m super 4.5/5.0
Still loving every single minute spent in this world, with these characters and with this story. Each one is pure fun and enjoyment. I’m super frustrated at the magical world as a whole and can’t figure (because it hasn’t been sufficiently explained) WHY the other houses won’t help Hazel, even now that she is super powerful, though. Why is no one standing up for her at all?!?
Oh, and that ending… YIKES! All I’ll say is it would take more than one eternity for me to EVER look at Cadence and Josh again! Killlian too, although it’s pretty obvious why he did what he did. *sigh*. I’m guessing nothing much will get done at my house today because that next book is calling!...more
4.5/5.0 Thoroughly enjoyed this first in a trilogy! I especially loved Hazel (FMC). She has lived a hard life as the heir to a wizard house but with ba4.5/5.0 Thoroughly enjoyed this first in a trilogy! I especially loved Hazel (FMC). She has lived a hard life as the heir to a wizard house but with barely any power, which puts her in the crosshairs of every bully and taunt leveled. She is scrappy but still succeeds in holding on to her kindness. She has a strong and loyal heart which just ices that cake for me. Then… team her with the most hardened and cynical vampire Elite? Pure reading magic!
The plot grabs the reader immediately and makes it nearly impossible to put down (and get a stinking thing done!) But I truly loved every minute. One must know, however, that this book is purely escapist fun. It won’t solve world problems or imbue eloquent literary revelations into the writing. It’s just a jolly good ride!...more
3.5/5.0 I’m still enjoying the story and the world where one town has successfully incorporated both werewolves and humans into a working relationship.3.5/5.0 I’m still enjoying the story and the world where one town has successfully incorporated both werewolves and humans into a working relationship. Phillipa (Pip) is the most dense FMC I have read in quite a while, though, and that’s a bit frustrating. ...more
A light, fun read. Just a bit on the simple side of writing but still a great series starter. This is the first book I have read from this auth3.5/5.0
A light, fun read. Just a bit on the simple side of writing but still a great series starter. This is the first book I have read from this author, however, and it is obvious that numerous characters have come from previous series. This leaves me a bit behind the eight ball, but it does prompt me to try those series, as well, because the characters mentioned sound super interesting.
Side Note: Lesson’s Learned in Punctuation A few years ago, the legendary Catherine Coulter told me she absolutely refused to allow me to publish any of our interviews unless I went back and deleted every single exclamation point in them - every one! (I admit, left unattended, I tend to use them often). I rolled my eyes but did as she requested. It wasn’t until I read THIS book that I actually learned why, though… because having to read when someone has overused them is freaking ANNOYING!!...more
This is a nice, quick read. There just isn’t enough time given to allow for any depth at all. The love is absolutely insta, the mystery is obvious, buThis is a nice, quick read. There just isn’t enough time given to allow for any depth at all. The love is absolutely insta, the mystery is obvious, but the writing is easy if one just wants an enjoyable couple of hours away from reality....more
What a lovely way to spend a few hours! I especially loved the fact that the author kept the story more realistic to the actual era than most r4.5/5.0
What a lovely way to spend a few hours! I especially loved the fact that the author kept the story more realistic to the actual era than most regency romances do. I actually quit reading my here-to-fore favorite genre because the vast majority have just become contemporaries in costume and that drives me nuts! This rich and enjoyable story did a beautiful job of keeping all the things one loves about the genre while still allowing for the challenging and sometimes harsh realities of the era to be addressed.
There were times when the plot stalled a bit, but overall it was is everything historical romance readers should gobble up!...more
After a year and four months (yes, I counted) wait, I finally got this treasured story from my most favorite in the whole wide sci-fi world ser3.5/5.0
After a year and four months (yes, I counted) wait, I finally got this treasured story from my most favorite in the whole wide sci-fi world series (okay, okay, it's still fighting E.G. Manetti's Twelve Systems series for first place) in my grubby little hands! And, I immediately curled up to relish the reunion (Christmas vacation and New Years? Who cares!). And, what a reunion it is! Every character that I adore is present and accounted for in this fifth installment and it was just as wonderful to revisit them as I dreamed.
Sadly, however, as the story progressed I realized there are a few things I hesitate at. The story-line is not quite as tightly written and solid as the previous four books. There are a few holes, threads brushed over and there isn't the emotional depth I've become accustomed to. SO... I'll give the amazing and the disappointing and let you, m'friends decide if you agree or not!
Amazing: 1. The bonds, loyalty and love between Kira and those she trusts is just as riveting and tender as any story or series I have ever read. I absolutely adore the relationship between her and Graydon, Elena, Jin and even Raider... well, absolutely everyone she cares about. It is enough to want to just read forever! 2. The first 65% of the book is mainly positioning, and working many smaller story-lines together so the series can continue to stay relevant. This allows for a whole ton of small revelations that the readers have been wondering about. We learn a bit more about Elise (although part of that is also included in the disappointing section below). We discover some of the secrets Jin has kept - along with lots of subtle stuff where one goes, "huh, that's interesting and makes more sense now." 3. We spend a large portion of the story with Elena, and her character grows tremendously in this installment. She has to grow up fast and rises to the occasion admirably. Yet, that growth is still shown through the eyes of a typical 14 year-old. Ms. White does a fabulous job of keeping her innocence while requiring her to see the "real" world. 4. Graydon. 'Nuff said.
Disappointing: 1. There is very little depth underneath the story or characters in this book. We see all the stuff but never really get the emotion that goes along with it. And there are some HUGE times we need to understand what's underneath. What are the characters feeling when they discover "this", or when they learn of "that"? There really isn't anything - we're just left to rush into the next problem. 2. The whole Elise plot-line is HORRIBLY brushed over! We learn a few things but nothing is explained enough to actually understand those things. Exactly who are those children? Hers? Well, HOW? And why she is working with the Tsavitee is mentioned but with no real depth or understanding of the how and why behind it. This plot thread is also one of the main points in the book, so not getting anymore insight behind the actions is SUPER frustrating! 3. AND... the biggest reason I had to hit that 3.5 star rather than a straight four (and probably would have left it at a three if it weren't for my love for the rest of the series), is that the author employed something I am seeing a LOT of recently in books with strong heroines - Once they find their true love - usually a fabulous alpha/strong/talented/provider/type - the author stuffs all that awesomeness of a man into the background to become no more than a cardboard side-character who only shows up for sex or to voice support for all the saving the world stuff the heroine attempts. Then, he leaves the page while she does it all. Now, I'm all for strong heroines, love every single minute on-page with them. But to emasculate the man the minute he succumbs to love is just insulting to HIS character. And, this is exactly what happens with Graydon in this story. He really does very little more than what is mentioned above. In fact, Slightly spoilerish comment on the character side of things ahead: He doesn't even make an appearance for the big final battle until after Kira has done all the work! Then, he just waltzes in to help her clean up and show his love. GAH! Why can't we see him fight by her side?!?!? That doesn't make her less bad-a$#, it just shows that they are both strong, but together they are unbeatable and A.MAZ.ING. *sigh* Sadly that didn't happen and that is the most disappointing thing of all.
Even so, I would highly recommend reading this story, IF you have read the previous books in the series (and why wouldn't you? They are fabulous!) I would also really love to know if anyone agrees with my points or if I'm just out in left field by myself on this one (as the ratings so far may attest)....more
Anyone who has read the first book in this series will be excruciatingly aware of what they are getting into with this story - a masterful but somewhaAnyone who has read the first book in this series will be excruciatingly aware of what they are getting into with this story - a masterful but somewhat dark story that is riveting but harshly realistic, heartening back to our own historical civilizations such as Sparta and Assyria.
It took me a few months to decide to pick this book up. Not because I wasn’t riveted in the first (I was) or because I didn’t want to see what happens next (I did), but because the author did such a superlative job of drawing the reader into the hearts of the characters that when all the awful happens, it just hurts too much! And after finishing this story, I can attest, all the above still exists. Still, I can’t deny Ms. Sahir has me hooked… It just may take another few months to work myself up to grab the third book....more
After a year and four months (yes, I counted) wait, I finally got this treasured story from my most favorite in the whole wide world sci-fi ser3.5/5.0
After a year and four months (yes, I counted) wait, I finally got this treasured story from my most favorite in the whole wide world sci-fi series (okay, okay, it's still fighting E.G. Manetti's Twelve Systems series for first place) in my grubby little hands! And, I immediately curled up to relish the reunion (Christmas vacation and New Years? Who cares!). And, what a reunion it is! Every character that I adore is present and accounted for in this fifth installment and it was just as wonderful to revisit them as I dreamed.
Sadly, however, as the story progressed I realized there are a few things I hesitate at. The story-line is not quite as tightly written and solid as the previous four books. There are a few holes, threads brushed over and there isn't the emotional depth I've become accustomed to. SO... I'll give the amazing and the disappointing and let you, m'friends decide if you agree or not!
Amazing: 1. The bonds, loyalty and love between Kira and those she trusts is just as riveting and tender as any story or series I have ever read. I absolutely adore the relationship between her and Graydon, Elena, Jin and even Raider... well, absolutely everyone she cares about. It is enough to want to just read forever! 2. The first 65% of the book is mainly positioning, and working many smaller story-lines together so the series can continue to stay relevant. This allows for a whole ton of small revelations that the readers have been wondering about. We learn a bit more about Elise (although part of that is also included in the disappointing section below). We discover some of the secrets Jin has kept - along with lots of subtle stuff where one goes, "huh, that's interesting and makes more sense now." 3. We spend a large portion of the story with Elena, and her character grows tremendously in this installment. She has to grow up fast and rises to the occasion admirably. Yet, that growth is still shown through the eyes of a typical 14 year-old. Ms. White does a fabulous job of keeping her innocence while requiring her to see the "real" world. 4. Graydon. 'Nuff said.
Disappointing: 1. There is very little depth underneath the story or characters in this book. We see all the stuff but never really get the emotion that goes along with it. And there are some HUGE times we need to understand what's underneath. What are the characters feeling when they discover "this", or when they learn of "that"? There really isn't anything - we're just left to rush into the next problem. 2. The whole Elise plot-line is HORRIBLY brushed over! We learn a few things but nothing is explained enough to actually understand what those things mean. Exactly who are those children? Hers? Well, HOW? And the whole why she is working with the Tsavitee is mentioned but with no real depth or understanding the how and why behind it. This plot thread is also one of the main points in the book, so not getting anymore understanding behind the actions is SUPER frustrating! 3. AND... the biggest reason I had to hit that 3.5 star rather than a straight four (and probably would have left it at a three if it weren't for my love for the rest of the series), is that the author employed something I am seeing a LOT of recently in books with strong heroines - Once they find their true love - usually a fabulous alpha/strong/talented/provider/type - the author stuffs all that awesomeness of a man into the background to become no more than a cardboard side-character who only shows up for sex or to voice support for all the saving the world stuff the heroine attempts. Then, he leaves the page while she does it all. Now, I'm all for strong heroines, love every single minute on-page with them. But to emasculate the man the minute he succumbs to love is just insulting to HIS character. And, this is exactly what happens with Graydon in this story. He really does very little more that what is mentioned above. In fact, Slightly spoilerish comment on the character side of things ahead: He doesn't even make an appearance for the big final battle until after Kira has done all the work! Then, he just waltzes in to help her clean up and show his love. GAH! Why can't we see him fight by her side?!?!? That doesn't make her less bad-a$#, it just shows that they are both strong, but together they are unbeatable and A.MAZ.ING. *sigh* Sadly that didn't happen and that is the most disappointing thing of all.
Even so, I would highly recommend reading this story, IF you have read the previous books in the series (and why wouldn't you? They are fabulous!) I would also really love to know if anyone agrees with my points or if I'm just out in left field by myself on this one (as the ratings so far may attest)....more
Lots more suspense and world understanding in this second in the Goldenrod series! I’ll readily admit I didn’t like Elizabeth at ALL going into this bLots more suspense and world understanding in this second in the Goldenrod series! I’ll readily admit I didn’t like Elizabeth at ALL going into this book. She was such a nasty little piece of work in the previous story. And, she started out much the same in this one. We did get to see her (slowly) evolve, grow and become a more likeable character as things progressed, however. And, I’ll also admit, pitting a spoiled, entitled, cosseted woman against a world-weary, harsh, scrabble to live and survive man was a recipe for all kinds of fireworks! Not comfortable at all, but compelling nonetheless.
I’m impressed at how true to their nature Ms. North kept the characters while still subtlety pushing them through growth. It was expertly done and incredibly interesting to read. So many things about their society is also brought to light in this story, which opens the doors to all kinds of suspense to come in future books! So, I think I’m in this one for the long run!...more
Well, this is an interesting mix. I’ll admit I was (and am still) not very cognizant of the whole “omegaverse” world… didn’t even know it exist3.5/5.0
Well, this is an interesting mix. I’ll admit I was (and am still) not very cognizant of the whole “omegaverse” world… didn’t even know it existed until this book. So, my opinions are not deeply intelligent concerning the sub-genre as a whole - just this one little corner of a series.
After finishing the book and reading other reviews, I completely understand people’s problem with the “doormat” personality of the FMC in this story, but…. Isn’t that at least somewhat part and parcel to an omega personality? A pleaser, one who keeps all the more volatile personalities calm etc. etc.? So, if one chooses to pick up a book about an omega we can’t complain when they act like one! Admittedly, however, I was also REALLY frustrated that Camilla didn’t at least stand up for herself a little! A person can be submissive while still demanding respect and requiring consideration.
I thought the story, itself was a really interesting and uniquely creative one. Having a society with alphas, betas and omegas that is NOT shifter-related is a challenge in and of itself, but this new-to-me author did a fabulous job of creating a world where everything makes sense. It’s actually more dystopian than paranormal, with humans engineered to be bigger, stronger, “alpha”. Then, engineering others who can successfully live with and help procreate with those alpha humans. Not sure if all this is explained thoroughly in this first book (I read the next immediately after) but it does help a reader’s understanding as to why Camilla, Wyatt and the rest behave the way they do.
And, of course, there are some fabulous forewarnings, and plenty of intrigue that plays right alongside the romance aspect. So I’ll definitely be continuing this series!...more
Disclaimer:This particular three star rating is based on a completely personal preference. The writing is as top-notch as any in this series so far. TDisclaimer:This particular three star rating is based on a completely personal preference. The writing is as top-notch as any in this series so far. The story does start slowly with an over abundance of wordiness and fluff that seems to be more filler than anything. But, as the story continues, the action ratchets up to fever pitch and we are off and running to the end!
My reticence comes in two major areas, however. First, although Amaranthe is known for her hare-brained ideas that she runs headlong into, this particular one was WAY over the top and ridiculous. So much so that it wasn’t even believable for her character, let alone any reader with half a brain.
Even worse is that ending. I hate, HATE, HATED it! So much so that I can’t even continue to the next book without giving it some time. I’ve grown to love Sicarius’s character enough that I just can’t with what the author did to him on that last page. Maybe somewhere down the road I’ll care enough to jump in and read the finale of this series (I really do want to know how it all ends) but for now, I’ve gotta walk away and take a breath. It really does annoy me that much....more
I usually don’t bother to read all the side novellas in any series, but I noticed the author and reviewers of this series all suggested this one was iI usually don’t bother to read all the side novellas in any series, but I noticed the author and reviewers of this series all suggested this one was important to the events that take place in book six. Now, I can say I agree… and it was worth it.
The story (as almost all novellas IMHO) doesn’t have time to explore any great depth but it does offer some great forward progression with Maldonado and Yaro’s relationship. It also serves up an entire story filled with non-stop action. So, win/win for everyone!...more