Book Review: "Hellbender" by Dana Cameron

I-Day is near at hand, and soon the Fangborn will reveal themselves to humankind. As a member of this secretive race of werewolves, vampires, and oracles, will archaeologist Zoe Miller be prepared?

Still grappling with the newfound powers she gained after opening Pandora’s box, Zoe shares the responsibility of protecting “Normal” humans. Having long preferred to keep to the shadows, she knows the pending revelation of the Fangborn will set the world on fire. With Fangborn enemies in the Order of Nicomedia forcing their hand, Zoe and her supernatural Family have no choice but to step into the spotlight. But that decision has garnered the attention of the powerful and otherworldly beings known as the Makers. They claim to have created the Fangborn—not as saviors, but as predators. And it seems they have their own plans for Zoe…and for the fate of all the Fangborn.

Filled with stunning twists, Hellbender takes the Fangborn series to a thrilling new dimension. - from Netgalley.com

This is the third book in the Fangborn series by Dana Cameron, and I was a bit surprised when I saw it being available. I thought it might be a longer time period to get it out, by I am definitely not complaining! I started reading it as soon as I had a chance. The story pretty much takes off from the end of the second book, with Zoe finding out another new mystery power. From that point, as I got further into the story, my expectations gradually decreased. 

The existing struggle between Fangborn and the Order, and bringing the knowledge of the Fangborn to public knowledge, was to be expected. I enjoyed the results of the novel in the conflicts between these two groups. Zoe is a obviously still trying to understand how her artifacts work, and what powers they provide, or with most of them, what they may provide and how to access that power. More artifacts are gained in this telling. 

What I didn't care for, was the way I felt while reading, that things were sort of 'crammed' into this book to bring everything to a finish. It seemed some parts were glossed over (details about the Celtic sword - aside from how it was used at the end, finding out about her father, I-Day coming about). I received the impression that this may be a third and final book in this particular part of the Fangborn world, though, there is much that another book (or more) would be open to explaining in more detail (Zoe's powers - how they come about, possible searching for more artifacts, etc.). Overall I was a bit let-down about the 'rush to the finish' feeling I had while reading it, but still a great story. I would definitely be interested in reading more in this series, or even possibly other tales from the Fangborn world. 

I received a Kindle version ARC from the publisher, 47North, through Netgalley.com.

Book Review: "The Dark Side of the Road" by Simon R. Green

Ishmael Jones is someone who can’t afford to be noticed, someone who lives under the radar, who drives on the dark side of the road. He’s employed to search out secrets, investigate mysteries and shine a light in dark places. Sometimes he kills people. Invited by his employer, the enigmatic Colonel, to join him and his family for Christmas, Ishmael arrives at the grand but isolated Belcourt Manor in the midst of a blizzard to find that the Colonel has mysteriously disappeared. As he questions his fellow guests, Ishmael concludes that at least one of them – not least Ishmael himself - is harbouring a dangerous secret, and that beneath the veneer of festive cheer lurk passion, jealousy, resentment and betrayal. As a storm sets in, sealing off the Manor from the rest of the world, Ishmael must unmask a ruthless murderer they strike again. - from Netgalley.com

I have enjoyed several of Simon Green's books over the years, and this was no exception. For some reason, I was a bit leery of reading this, thinking it was possibly a book in the middle of a series, and having maybe not read the possible prior stories, I would be left on the darkside of the road (sorry for the pun). There need be no worries. Whether this is a first or a stand-alone novel, I felt there was enough background on characters and their history to make the story enjoyable, yet also leave me wanting to know more about the main character, Ishmael Jones. The overall plot was a bit boring, reminding me of an old movie I saw many years ago, and when I was explaining the book to a friend, they said "Oh, like CLUE" and I had to agree it sort of was similar. Either way, the story had a few different twists than just a normal 'the butler did it'- type mystery. Was a delightful read, and I shall keep my eyes open for future Ismael Jones stories!

I received an ARC from Severn house publishing through Netgalley.com in exchange for a review.

Book Review: "Poisonwell" by Jeff Wheeler

The battle to save the kingdoms devastated by the Plague culminates in this exhilarating finale to the Whispers from Mirrowen trilogy.

If there is anything more dangerous than the Plague itself, it is the journey that awaits those sworn to stop it. Tyrus, the renegade magic-wielder exiled from Kenatos, knows this firsthand. His original mission through the Scourgelands met a tragic end, leaving him as the sole survivor.

Now all hope lies with his daughter, Phae, the uniquely gifted Dryad-born who can not only steal memories but also summon the power of the fireblood—and who alone has the power to breach the lost gate of Mirrowen. But first Phae and the comrades who have come to her aid must survive the most dangerous place on earth: the Scourgelands.

The menacing woods prove every bit as treacherous as reputed. Murder, sacrifice, deception, and an epic battle with a beast ensue. Will Phae reach the land beyond the grasp of the deadly Plague…or will the quest through the Scourgelands end in tragedy once again? - from NetGalley.com

This is the third book in the 'Whispers of Mirrowen' series by Jeff Wheeler, which I received in free in exchange for a review via Netgalley.com and Amazon Publishing.

I originally came across this author when I found THE WRETCHED OF MUIRWOOD on Amazon.com in the free ebook section. Now idea how long it had been lited there, but it sounded interesting. Since that time, I have not been able to NOT read any of his books I get my hands on. This trilogy is no exception, and in my opinion, shows how Wheeler's writing style has become smoother, and more involved than the earlier trilogy.

While reading the first two books of the series, at times I felt there were too many characters for me to keep track of, but by the end of the second novel, it could be no other way. As the final leg of their journey takes place, many of them grow in character and purpose. For a younger reader, I am sure they would love the way some of the characters mature from their childhood ideals.

What another great trilogy from J. Weaver! When I requested this book, I was happy I didn't have to wait long to get started on it, and it completely ended differently than what I expected. Wheeler did a wonderful job in creating and orchestrating this world and I have thoroughly enjoyed both series he has shared with the world. Looking forward to many more books from this author!!