Book Review: The Glass Magician

by: Charlie N. Holmberg

I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I selected this book because I had previously gotten The Paper Magician from Amazon as one of those early free books for Prime Members. I really didn't think I'd like it, but hey, always judge a book by it's cover, right?

I started reading The Paper Magician first, so I would be prepared for The Glass Magician. I'm not always a big paranormal fan. I swear it was I was dragging myself kicking and screaming into that book. Next thing I know, I'm halfway through and nothing can stop me. I did suffer the next day.

I finished that in one day. Then I immediately opened up The Glass Magician. I was so happy to see it continue the story of Ceony (rhymes with peony) and Emory. See, in the first book Ceony is assigned to Emory as his apprentice to train in the magic of paper. And is she ever mad about that. But the visual descriptions, the things that Emory teaches her are just so delicate and beautiful. As is the man himself. Kind of weird but smart and so kind, with a good sense of humor.

Now she is even more in love with Emory, and I have to admit I'm following suit. He's so sweet. In the first book he noticed she was sad about leaving her dog behind, because of his allergies. He stays up all night and crafts her an animated dog out of paper. He doesn't give her grief about being afraid of water, and he respects her wishes when she doesn't want to talk about something - even if she really, really should.

The thing she did in the first book has come back to haunt her in this one. Her life and those she loves are in the greatest danger. She is powerless, and hates that feeling. I can understand that.

What I love is that she's not a wimpy damsel in distress, but when she is told to stay put, she listens. She makes mistakes, but she admits when she is wrong and tries to do the right thing. She's a great character, I hope there will be more.

Oh and most importantly - this is the 2nd book in a series. I'm unsure how long it will be, but do yourself a favor - read The Paper Magician first. You might make it through, but knowing what happens in the first book will help you understand this one.

Book Review: Blood Seductions

by: Celeste Hall

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Synopsis:
Beware of dark desire… When a vampire falls in love with a human, there is more at risk than a broken heart. How do you protect the one you love from becoming the thing she fears most in the world? How do you share your life with someone knowing fully well that your blood carries a virus which could destroy her?

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This book is a very fast read, I read it Friday afternoon before going out to dinner with family. I didn't put a whole lot of concentration into it, but it's not my usual read.

What I did glean from this story is that it's full of adventure, drama, and it's pretty well-written. The pacing is extremely fast. I didn't know the girl was human, though. The stuff I did catch from her, I thought she was something else...I mean what human could survive a vampire attack without becoming a vampire herself?

So if you enjoy paranormal romance, I think you'll really enjoy this book. It's not really outstanding, but it's not bad either.

Book Review: Enchanted by Starlight

by: Tina L. Hook

Available at Amazon

Synopsis:
Be careful what you wish for… Grace, Skylar and Alina are connected by destiny when an enchanted comet crosses the night sky. As their most secret ambitions ignite, their ordinary lives take a magical detour down a powerful but dangerous path.

Grace, emerging from her dejected childhood, develops the power to make men fall in love with her. Skylar leaves her impoverished past behind and pursues the social status she has always longed for. Without dreams of her own, Alina covets the power to unravel other lives and seeks revenge. As they crash into and slip away from each other in a cycle of envy, deception and love lost, these three women are forced to look deeper into their own hearts for the true meaning of enchantment.

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This story is an intricately woven pattern. It does take some getting used to, and for the first few pages I wasn't really into. But then it does take off, and you get how the women go together.

I never did figure out what Alina's problem was. I think she was displacing her rage at her sister and the man she loved. She instead took it out on Grace and Skylar. It's the saddest part because she missed out on 2 really good friends. There really are some phenomenal twists in the story.

All in all, it's a magical story full to the brim. The plot is thick, the pacing is both deliberate and relaxed. I would label this chick-lit with just a hint of paranormal.

Book Review: Change

by: Soraya Lane

Available at Amazon

Synopsis:
When her twin sister dies of a mysterious heart condition, Riley King is sent to her grandma’s ranch. But instead of the isolation she’s been aching for, she learns of a family secret that’s been deliberately kept from her, until now.

As if finding out she’s actually a leopard wasn't enough shock for one vacation, Riley meets Hunter Logan … the guy she’s promised to. For life. But Riley has no intention of being told what to do by anyone, certainly not some stubborn, dominant shifter. Even if he can make her purr, her claws are slicing out. Until Riley realizes that not fulfilling her destiny would commit her sister to a life on the other side without her.

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This is a fairly well written, fast paced novel. Riley isn’t such a bad heroin, and Hunter is obviously smokin’! Riley can’t think of any other way to get over her sister’s death than by spending the summer with her grandmother. But turns out she can shift into a black panther, along with a bunch of others in that area. Her grandmother is the leader of the pack and wants Riley to take over. Oh she’s also supposed to “mate” with Hunter.

The story does grab you and it reads so fast. Perfect vacation read! There were a couple of things in the plot that bothered me though.

The inconsistencies in the story. Riley’s mother isn’t a panther and her grandmother tells her it skips a generation. But Hunter’s entire family are leopards, so why the difference? Never explained.

And if they are all leopards, why are they behaving like wolves? Hunter tells her they mate for life and live in a pack. Now if you read up on leopards like I did while reading this story – I thought maybe black leopards are one of the weird cats that might do that. Nope, they hate other leopards in their area and mate when it’s time and then go their separate ways. They are unique though, they are the only smaller cat that can roar.

Then she’s never met any of the other leopards, doesn’t know them at all. And they are all like “ok, strange girl who didn’t even know she could do this 2 weeks ago…you tell us what to do.” I just wasn’t buying it. I like the idea of her not knowing, but I’m not about to believe she will become the venerated leader overnight.

And finally, a little ewww factor. I’m not happy that all that sex stuff (I will concede there really isn't a whole lot of this) is going on and the girl is only 17. If I’m reading about people getting all sweaty and stuff, could they both at least be in their early 20s? Not still a kid.

I did zoom through it though, so that all being said it was a captivating story.

Book Review: Faythe Reclaimed

by: Lisa Sanchez

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Synopsis:
Running through a strange forest with a bloodthirsty demon hot on her heels wasn’t Taylor’s idea of a rockin’ evening. Then again, neither was soaring backward through time and space. Time travel chafed and left a rank, nasty aftertaste. So, when she finds herself floundering amidst a sea of Commandment-loving holy rollers who fling accusations of witchcraft and bedevilment like hotcakes in a diner, finding her way home jumps to the top of her to do list. Too bad she can’t remember who she is or where she came from. And if that wasn’t bad enough, Taylor has to fall for the mysterious Latin warlock living on the edge of Salem Village and who comes to her rescue, Gabriel Castillo.

Battling an identity crisis and lost in a time that’s not her own, Taylor is determined to find her way back to twenty-first century Hanaford Park. But first, she and Gabriel must work together to uncover the dark scourge lurking in Salem's shadows, and in doing so, save their own lives, and the lives of countless innocents from a lethal date with the hangman’s noose.

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This is the 3rd book in Lisa Sanchez' Hanaford Park Series, and I do wish I had read the first 2. Don't panic! You don't have to read the other books, I am sure they all stand alone as this one does. But it was SOOOO good. I'm not often a big fan of paranormal romance, but this plot and these characters all demanded my attention.

When Taylor was sent back, I felt scared with her. When Gabriel and Taylor (aka Faythe) first met, and the sparks flew, I was ecstatic. Their relationship is so romantic and fiery HOT, but the storyline in Salem during the witch trials was scary, weird and loosely based on what happened there. Lisa wrote them as an insane mob, with one hell of a twist. And that's all you'll get out of me!

There's paranormal, romance sex, witches, demons and time travel. If you like any of that, you'll enjoy this book.

Witches in Flight

by: Debora Geary

Available at Amazon

Synopsis:
Ghosts from Lizard's past--and the man who wants to be her future.

The empty places in Elsie's soul--and the temptations of raspberry-laced courage.

Walk once more with Jennie's students as they come to the end of their WitchLight journeys.

Ah--just read it. You know you want to :-).

Witches Under Way is the final book in the WitchLight spin-off trilogy, set in the world of the A Modern Witch series.

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You know my favorite thing about reading this WitchLight Trilogy? It's the burst of self confidence I get, the desire to fly free toward my bliss. Everyone should be able to find what they love, that's not always easy but everyone should be able to find some happiness. And there's nothing like a dose of Lizard and Elsie to remind me what I'm striving for.

The other thing I love, is the healing calm her stories carry. They make me weep with the unconditional love all the witches have for each other, this is present in both the WitchLight Trilogy and A Modern Witch series. The easy manor they impart wisdom, and even take criticism. It is best imbibed after reading a dark tale. This time it followed Jonathan Kellerman's newest novel, Victims. And that was a pretty horrid tale. I didn't even wait before picking up this book, I closed the one and opened the other. It healed my heart. (And don't misunderstand me, I LOVED Mr. Kellerman's novel too, but it can get dark!)

And finally, I love (am jealous of) the way those witches can eat cookies and ice cream like it's going out of style and not gain weight. Granted they are burning through it, it just makes me wish I were a witch like in her books. Sadly the reality does not come with the metabolism boost. lol

In this novel, the girls are finishing up their time on parole. They have learned so much, and worked so hard to...not even reinvent themselves. To grow, and live up to their potential. Lizard always put herself down as being too stupid, although she's a fracking genius! And Elsie, she's working to keep that stick out of her bum. lol

These are just the main characters the story revolves around. There are a mess of other witches and regular people that have love to share and laughs to give. There will be laughter, tears, and sharp intakes of breath. But this is a smooth read that weaves a tale that will live with you long after you finish.

I truly can't say anymore. If you haven't read these, pick up from the 1st one, Witches on Parole. Next is Witches Under Way. Oh and if you don't have a Kindle, you can purchase the book from Amazon, then e-mail your receipt to Debora Geary to get a version for your e-reader of choice. Just visit her website here.

Review: Hawthorne

by: Sarah Ballance

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Synopsis:
After a terrifying encounter with the unexplained, it took ten years and the news of her grandmother’s passing for Emma Grace Hawthorne to return to her childhood home. She sought peace in saying a proper goodbye, but what she found was an old love, a sordid family history, and a wrong only she could right.

Living in the shadow of Hawthorne Manor, Noah Garrett never forgot about Emma Grace. In a house full of secrets, his search for missing documents revealed a truth that could cost him everything. What he found gave Emma the freedom to walk away from the mansion, her heart free and clear, but at what price to Noah?

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Sarah Ballance is a good storyteller. The characters are engaging and the story itself has a decent pace.

It's a very short story, which almost worked for this tale. I think she could expand on it and turn it into a novel though. The length just didn't leave enough time to build the suspense and then it ended to quickly it was fairly anti-climactic.

The other problem I have is the price. This story is less than 40 pages in length but it's $1.99...$0.99 is the most I'd pay for a short story.

I did like the story, but the bad really outweighs the good on this one. About the best thing I can say is you know I am being honest with all the 4 and 5 star reviews. lol And Sarah if you are reading this remember, it's a great story that you could (and I hope you do) elaborate on.

Tales of Aradia: The Last Witch #1

by: L.A. Jones

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Synopsis:
Unknown to the humans who hung innocent people at the Salem Witch Trials real witches of the hidden race were killed for fear of exposure or at least that's what all the vampires, werewolves, and other races thought.There was not one witch whom survived the genocide of the Salem Witch Trials. But one day a girl named Aradia moves to Salem, MA and all that changes

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Can I just say that it's a good thing I'm not responsible for labeling books. What is this? Lots of things, Young Adult, Paranormal Romance, Paranormal Mystery, and a little humor thrown into the mix.

Aradia has a wicked, off-beat sense of humor. In the book, she would occasionally deliver a zinger and everyone around her would just stand there. More than once she had to explain the joke, and more than once the joke fell flat. It was great! :)

The werewolves are strong and responsible. The vampires are an old and patient people. Lots of the Hidden race in the high-school. I don't get the vampires going to school. Seriously? Why not just say you are homeschooling? Of course the vampires are all beautiful people, and high school is far easier if you are a pretty person. God someone needs to write a book about a dorky, vampire reject. lol

Fast paced story, and is so well written that there are few who will be disappointed. Ok, you want to know how good this book was? My husband got home after being gone and I was disappointed he showed up because I was so close to being finished. lol

It's also very affordable, only 99¢ for the Kindle. Give it to your teen, read it for yourself.

Witches Under Way: Book 2 of the Witchlight Trilogy

by: Debora Geary

Available at Amazon (if you don't own a Kindle, purchase the Kindle version and e-mail your receipt to Debora Geary to get the necessary format)

Synopsis:
Lizard and Elsie are under way, but the WitchLight journey isn't an easy one.

There are bumps and obstacles inside their own hearts.

And there is the greatest challenge of all... the one they will pick for each other.

Witches Under Way is the sequel to Witches on Parole, and the book in the WitchLight spin-off trilogy, set in the world of the A Modern Witch series. The final book in the trilogy will be out in late March!

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Bang up job, as usual. I love all of Debora's Witch books because reading about Witch Central is like floating in the ocean. It's warm and sunny, there are ups and downs but you just keep floating along. Her pacing is always consistent, and the witches who are central to the story are always helped along by all the other witches in Berkley. And in this one, helped by some of the mortals too.

Once when Elsie was working on her fire power, they discovered a little baby boy (mortal born) was a fire witch. I also adore that the fire witches seem to be drawn to knitting, and knitting in their warm colors of red, yellow and orange.

This book touched me more than any others because I have some similar issues and frustrations that both Elsie and Lizard have. With Elsie, realizing she never really had her childhood, and missing out on all that silliness and color. I absolutely fell in love with Elsie in this book. She showed tremendous courage in facing her..."stick-up the butt" self.

Lizard is forced to do a few things outside her comfort zone. But basically it all boils down to her realizing she is worth the effort other people wish to make for her. She is well loved, regardless of her hard exterior, now she needs to learn how to accept it.

This is a trilogy, so there is just one more book. *can't wait!* But I was glad to see A Modern Witch is a series...and there are going to be 9 total. So now I'm waiting for #4 in that one too. It's like a soap opera that doesn't leave you feeling grimy after. I just adore all the characters and if this were a real place I'd go there in a heartbeat!

Witch Hunt

by: Devin O'Branagan

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Synopsis:
Leigh has been married to a Hawthorne for a decade, but never knew the family secret: the Hawthornes are witches. When the dynamic Preacher Cody instigates a new, world-wide witch hunt, Leigh must choose sides. Will she stand with her husband and children, or will she run? This isn't the first witch hunt the Hawthornes have faced, but it could be their last. Will anyone survive?

A classic novel, updated for the 21st Century!

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I've been dying to read this book since I read Magaly's posts - even a guest post by Devin O'branagan. Apparently since last June. Feels longer...

Anyway, Ms. Branagan graciously sent me an e-copy of Witch Hunt. Once I started, I couldn't put it down. And it really terrified me. I was finishing it yesterday at my in-laws' house and I had to go sit by my husband, I was shivering. And it's never gory, but Devin so perfectly captures the evil in people. It's chilling how easy it was to sway people to violence with a little fear. But it's not the first time it's happened and the witches aren't the only ones to suffer from it.

I think I was profoundly affected by having been so recently reminded of the holocaust. The other thing that set me shivering was how it so closely matched up with the current rise in the fundamentalist christian movement. These people are seriously scary, without an ounce of the love that Jesus was supposed to teach them. That's what's scary, how can you reason with someone who can't even figure out they aren't following their own religion?

The story is about the Hawthorne family, centering on the modern day but going back and giving us the family history starting at the Salem Witch Hunt. This was my favorite part of the book too. I cried as I read the story Devin wove about these women and the few men who were tortured and murdered.

Great book, something that I found terrifying, and so well written I couldn't put it down no matter how upset I was (you have to love a book that is passionate). Fully worth the $4.99 price.

Witches on Parole: Unlocked

by: Debora Geary

Available at Amazon, Barnes & Nobles and Smashwords.

Synopsis: Two pendants. Two students. And it's entirely possible they didn't volunteer.

World-famous (and now retired) photographer Jenvieve Adams has a debt to repay, and a soft spot for witches who have lost their way. Or so she thinks, until they actually show up.

Join some of the cast of characters from the very successful A Modern Witch series as they take on a new kind of journey as guides for WitchLight. What happens when an obsessive psychologist and a wordsmithing delinquent get dropped into Witch Central?

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The cover on this book really sets it apart from the main A Modern Witch series. It is a spin off and can be enjoyed on it's own. However, if you want more back-story on some of the characters then you can start with A Modern Witch and A Hidden Witch. Actually A Modern Witch lets you in on the characters you see again in Witches on Parole.

So we have Aunt Jennie, who I think was a fairly minor character - since I barely remember her. She has been roped into being a mentor in WitchLight, because she used to be a member. She messed up pretty bad, and Melvin helped get her back on track. She leans on her own mentor and his wife Vero heavily during this journey which helps her as much as it does her students, Lizard and Elsie.

Lizard is a tough girl who has had a rough go of it. She's used to being hard on people to protect herself. But she's a very good mind witch and wickedly smart too. Can Jennie help get Lizard into the community of witches and get her some viable options for her future? She enlists Lauren - realtor and mind witch from A Modern Witch - to help Lizard find her niche.

Elsie is a tightly wound therapist who has been having issues with boundaries and her patients. She volunteered (Lizard really was on parole) for WitchLight to give back to the community and perhaps find an appropriate outlet for getting involved. She is really pushed to the brink because Jennie senses there's a Fire Witch hidden in the dungeons of Elsie's mind. She enlists Nat (not a witch but very wise and mellow) to help and included Jamie (a fire witch and husband to Nat) to help pull her out of her shell.

I truly felt for both characters and the way the witching community pulled together to help both women made me tear up more than once. Debora Geary hit a home run with this book. The only bad thing I have to say is...I have to wait until 2012 for the next book.