Book Review: "Hell's Acre" by Lilith Saintcrow

 

New Rome perches upon the shores of the Thamis River, and in its soot-stained depths a teeming mass of humanity lives under the iron fist of an Empire that never fell to Vandals or Christianity. In the shadows, assassins congregate and secret societies bloom—the Priory, dedicated to worship of the criminal Dead God, and the Hellions, thieves and murderers whose aim is mere freedom.

Or so they say.

Gemma Dove arrives in New Rome with a small independence and a burning desire: to gain revenge upon those who murdered her parents and drove her beloved aunt to a premature death. The city is a dangerous place, but Gemma has her own secret skills and isn't afraid to use them. She longs to complete her vengeance and return to her safe, beautiful estate across the Channel, but fate has other ideas.

His name for now is Avery Black, but they call him the Rook. The young Hellion has sunk himself in vice and treachery, and he knows there's more to Miss Dove than meets the eye. He also knows she's playing a dangerous game, one which will end in her death—unless he takes a hand in matters. It might even be connected to his own vengeance against the Priory, but that's fast becoming a secondary consideration.

Under soot-stained skies and flickering gaslamps, from the crowd of thieves and gin-soaked tenements to the glittering whirl of Society, plans, treachery, and counter-betrayal are afoot. Gemma and Avery can deal the Priory a stinging defeat, but that ancient organization has its own plans for Miss Dove, and the Rook might be her only defense… - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was provided by Netgalley.com and I am giving an unbiased review.

Saintcrow has done a wonderful job in creating this new world scenario. It is like modern Europe, but kind of like if the Romans had actually conquered it all, and held sway for hundreds of years. The story is a bit historical, as many names that are somewhat recognized have a 'Latin-ish' sound to them, and they use wood/coal for fires with no autos in the story. So like the 1800s I guess.

This brings us to our two main characters: Miss Dove, a pseudonym for the rich daughter of some married bureaucrats who seeks revenge, and Avery Black, the Rook, a local sort-of Crime boss of the area of London called Hell's Acre. The Rook is actually a man of morals, and is trying to help the Acre, even if violence is necessary. Miss Dove, who has an "uncle" at a type of monastery in the Acre, manages with his help to get a job as a school mistress for an orphanage. I know I am skipping some parts (for you to enjoy) but the interest between Dove and Rook build throughout the story, which leaves us hanging a bit for a future installment.

The world-building in this novel is spectacular. I really liked the idea of a conquered Roman'ish Europe, and love how the names have that Latin quality. My history may not be the best, but there are several religions and deities Romans worshipped, and they have their part in the tale as well. The intrigue as to what is really going on keeps one reading. Dove does find the man responsible for her parents deaths (per the information she had received) but is that really the one. And how is it Rook's interests and Dove's coincide with each other, without the other knowing? Really looking forward to more in this series!

Book Review: "Midnight Black" by Mark Greaney

 

With his lover imprisoned in a Russian gulag, the Gray Man will stop at nothing to free her in this latest entry in the #1 New York Times bestselling series.

A winter sunrise over the great plains of Russia is no cause for celebration. The temperature barely rises above zero, and the guards at Penal Colony IK22 are determined to take their misery out on the prisoners--chief among them, one Zoya Zakharova. Once a master spy for Russian foreign intelligence, then the partner and lover of the Gray Man, she has information the Kremlin wants, and they don't care what they have to do to get it.

But if they think a thousand miles of frozen wasteland and the combined power of the Russian police state is enough to protect them, they don't know the Gray Man. He's coming, and no one's safe. - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was provided by NEtgalley.com and I giving an unbiased review.

This is the fourteenth novel in the 'Gray Man' series by this author, and continues the story a short time after the last novel. Zoya has been "traded" off to the Russians, and is in a  prison facility, and Court wants to get her out, but has no idea where in Russia she is. Original reports were that she was killed, but he holds out with hope. Not knowing where she might be (if she lives) Court is trying anyway he can to get into the country, often making some messes while doing so. Finally, proof is found by the US Gov't, that Zoya is alive, and where she is being held, which happens to be near yet another prison facility that is holding a Russian that can help overthrow the current regime. With the help of the US, and the renegades that stand for a free Russia, Court is able to get in-country.

During all this, Matt Hanley, our lowly CIA guy that was delegated from his lofty position, now in Brazil, gets involved, and brings in Hightower. With a large favor owed to his higher-up replacement, Matt and Hightower end up in the Ukraine, who is launching an attack to cover, and rescue the Russian delegate in the prison. The trick is to get him out, but Court, Zoya, and the delegates wife have to escape the women's prison 17 kilos away, and get to their location before they, too, are able to leave.

Written in the classic 'Gray Man' style, there is plenty of killing going on, and espionage-type things happening at every corner. Greaney brings back into play three of the main characters that have lasted these several novels, and makes it sound convincing. Not sure how much further this series will go, but Greaney does have another series starting that looks pretty good as well.

Book Review: "Shadows of Olympus" by Deric Wagner

 

Modern renditions of epic legends.

As the lines between myth and reality blur, the ultimate test of heroism awaits those who challenge fate. In this modern retelling of the Hercules myth, New Illion becomes a battleground where ancient legends and contemporary life collide. Roland, a former ruler turned shapeshifting were-lion detective, prowls the dark streets of the city, burdened by the murder of his family and the loss of his throne. His quest for justice is driven by profound grief, and he is determined to uncover the truth behind his family's killer. His partner, Damaldi, a gunslinger cursed with divine luck, provides an unpredictable edge as they navigate a city where the supernatural is ever-present.

Their investigation into a series of gruesome murders at Yamamoto Industries reveals troubling connections. Executives are being killed in increasingly horrifying ways, each death hinting at a deeper, more sinister threat. As Roland and Damaldi dig deeper, they discover that gods and demons are manipulating mortal affairs, their ancient powers threatening chaos.

Facing both human and supernatural adversaries, Roland and Damaldi must prevent a catastrophe of mythic proportions. With the fate of New Illion—and potentially the world—at stake, they must confront the ultimate challenge and stop the impending disaster. - from Booksirens.com

This eArc was provided by Booksirens.com and I am giving an unbiased review.

When I started reading this requested book, I had quite a few mixed feelings. A ruler of a large city of mixed population (shifter, human, etc) is arrested for murder (of his own family), claims it was magic-induced control of his mind, avoids a sentencing - other than you have to serve as a Warden (special police) in the same city he ruled, for an undetermined length of time. Conflict of interest much? Well, let's add in that as the story flows, we find out gods are involved, and doing their own manipulations, as well as the daemons. So everything is flipping nuts, and this guy is feeling guilt and remorse, as he was trapped in his body when he killed his family, yet has not gotten a chance to try to find the one who manipulated him. Oh, and let's hook him up in this Warden department, as more ofa detective, than a street patrol, because, hey - who needs training? His partner, oh, this guy is all Wyatt Earp with his two six-shooter handguns on the hips, and ensemble like Bat Masterson with an Earp mustache. 

But, once I got into the story, it was easy to overlook all this (it is fiction we are reading, right). There are always parts of hero stories that we know will happen: heroes almost never die, always win in the end, etc. This tale is not much different. His partner is a, for better terms, a "Luck" creature, and there are so many others that just happen to have a particular 'skill' or magic when the hero needs it. Overall, the tale was a good read, and since it is labeled as a chronicle, I am sure to be watching for the next one.

Book Review: "The Cartographer's Return" by Lisa Maria Koenig

 

Years have passed since the cartographer Soread from Greenwood has left Snowcreek. Now he returns, driven by trust towards the Lord and the Lady of Eridris and accompanied with secrets he wishes to keep. - from Booksirens.com

This eARC was provided by Booksirens.com and I giving an unbiased review.

This is the second novella in 'The Cartographer's Travels" series, and is also a fairly quick read. The tale takes place approximately 17 years after the first tale, and starts with our traveling map-making elf returning to the neighboring lands of his home after all this time. Again, he is wounded physically, though not as bad as the first time. Makes one wonder how clumsy this elf must be.

Either way, this one was a bit slower to read than the first one, as it delves more into the elf's inner turmoil and feelings (ewww, feelings). Obviously there is loads of guilt, anger, resentment, pride... the list just goes on, and flips around each paragraph. I tried to step back from the directness of it all, and saw that this seemed more of a tale of reuniting friends, one full of angst, etc, and one that is just open and loving, that share their burdens with each other.

Not sharing the ending, but from what I read, I don't see any future novellas about Soread coming in the future, though I admit, I always could be wrong.

Book Review: "The Cartographer from Greenwood" by Lisa Maria Koenig

 

In a stormy night, a strange elf stumbles through the doors of Lord Aeglas' manor in Snowcreek. He is injured and it is not his love for drawing maps that has driven him out of his home for many years. Will he learn that he has to fight for what is dear to him or will he continue his travels and avoid the arguments awaiting him at home? - from Booksirens.com

This eARC was provided by Booksirens.com and I am giving an unbiased review.

I actually came across the second novella of this small series (two books) prior to this one, but saw this one was available to be read and reviewed so requested it as well. Thankfully, both came, so I did not have to read out of order. Though each could be a stand-alone (I believe enough information is given in the second one to cover any possible missing plot).

I really liked the synopsis of the storyline: a wondering elf into neighboring lands, harboring inner feelings that prevent him from returning home to family. Here in this land he finds compassion and friendship, which erodes at his inner feelings, but in the end, we find it is not enough. Let's add in that this elf draws maps, very exquisite maps, and regardless of his wounds received, thus bringing him here, takes little time to recover. It is a novella, and some parts (to me) dragged on a bit longer than needed. I did find myself occasionally wishing this could be fleshed out into a longer tale, maybe including some of his traveling background. Overall well-written, easy to read, and looking forward to the second novella.

Book Review: "The Staircase in the Woods" by Chuck Wendig

 

A group of friends investigates the mystery of a strange staircase in the woods in this mesmerizing horror novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The Book of Accidents.

Five high school friends are bonded by an oath to protect one another no matter what.

Then, on a camping trip in the middle of the forest, they find something extraordinary: a mysterious staircase to nowhere.

One friend walks up—and never comes back down. Then the staircase disappears.

Twenty years later, the staircase has reappeared. Now the group returns to find the lost boy—and what lies beyond the staircase in the woods.  - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was provided by Netgalley.com and I am giving an unbiased review.

Wendig has done a wonderful job of creating yet another thriller story! This stand-alone novel takes us on a guilt-trip for a group of friends that lasts for years. As adults, they are tricked into climbing a random staircase found int he woods that takes to a place none would have suspected, for a goal that int heir hearts, they believe they want.

What is it about random staircases showing up in weird places, yet not in cities, etc? I did not take the time to 'Google' it, but either way, Wendig has taken an unexpected element and made it a focal point of a story. The novel is a nice read, and though not quite a horror story, does bring in elements that could make it considered as such. Overall, was a good read for the day, and look forward to future stories from this author.

Book Review: "Galaphile" The First Druids of Shannara" by Terry Brooks

 

New York Times bestselling author Terry Brooks makes his triumphant return to the world of Shannara, delving deep into the origin story of the druid order and its enigmatic creator that will change the face of the Four Lands forever.
 
One of the most iconic structures in the Four Lands is Paranor, the fortress home of the Druid Order. Legend holds that it was erected by an Elven leader known as Galaphile Joss. But who was this Galaphile, and how and why did he choose to establish this center of magic and learning?

Within these pages we meet the real Galaphile, following him from a friendless teenage orphan stranded in the Human world to a powerful adult and master mage, studying under the infamous recluse, Cogline. We learn of the forces that shaped him—those he loved, and those he lost; those who aided him, and those who stood against him.

Throughout it all, Galaphile’s goal is a noble one: to bring order to a chaotic world, and to make life better for those trying to survive it. To this end, he commences building the citadel which will one day be known as Paranor with the aid of the King of the Silver River. But there is one other who seeks dominion over the Four Lands—and for far less virtuous ends.

For this foe has been corrupted by an ancient evil—one that will not only reach out and touch Galaphile’s nearest and dearest, but also echo down through the centuries, sowing the seeds for some of the darkest times the Four Lands will ever face.- from Netgalley.com

This eARC was provided by Netgalley.com at no cost, and I am supplying an unbiased review.

Brooks' Shannara series have always been a good read to me. Over the years, I have read them them all at least twice. Each time he comes out with a new trilogy installment, I wonder where it will lead....

Galaphile is no disappointment. This time we are going back to the beginning of the druids, and this book, titled after the first, starts us on the journey that lasts through many books. Well written for those of Young Adult and older are able to enjoy, the worldbuilding is great, and one is able to tell the changes the world has gone through, and yet still faces (based on the other novels).

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel, and look forward to, if not a continuation of Galaphile's story, something that leads into the lives of some of the earlier druids.

Book Review: "The Others" by Evette Davis

 

Beneath the fog of San Francisco lurks a hidden world that controls our fate.

Much as she wishes otherwise, superstar political consultant Olivia Shepherd was born a powerful empath. It’s a legacy she walked away from long ago—but when she wakes up one morning to find Elsa, a tenacious time-walker, standing in her kitchen, she realizes she can no longer ignore her gifts. She is quickly plunged into the hidden world of powerful “Others” and drafted to work for the Council, a shadowy organization that summons the fog to San Francisco to obscure their involvement in human affairs.

Complicating matters further is Olivia’s new love interest, William. A centuries-old vampire, William is far too jaded to take an interest in human affairs—but Olivia no longer has the luxury of remaining impartial. As shocking details from Olivia’s own past emerge and her role in the Council begins to take shape, will she rise to the challenge of her destiny? - from Booksirens.com

This eARC was provided by Booksirens.com at no cost and I am providing an unbiased review.

This is listed as the first book in 'The Council Trilogy' by Davis, and I feel it may turn out to be a nice series. The story synopsis interested me enough to test out the book, which I found to be entertaining. As with many books, I felt there was some fast movement regarding character acceptance of magical entities, and that they have a special power. I think it was mostly to keep the story moving along at a fairly decent pace so as to not lose the reader.

Worldbuilding was pretty plain, as it takes place in what seems to be a present-day type San Francisco. There wasn't much as to magical theory, of how it appears to work in this story, but most seems to be based on mythical creatures we know of and their basic powers (i.e. vampires with mesmerism, werewolves changing shape). The MC seems to accept abnormal situations, people, and just information about her self, without questioning anything, and seems to quickly "move ahead" in this magical world. Overall, I did find the book entertaining, and I would love to see where this series tends to go in the next part.

Book Review: "Robert B. Parker's Buried Secrets" by Christopher Farnsworth

 Police Chief Jesse Stone investigates the mystery behind a dead body found strewn with photos of murder victims and placed on top of $2 million in cash, before a mob of hit men converge on Paradise.

Just another day in Paradise . . . 

Chief of Police Jesse Stone is on his way home from a long shift when a call comes in for a welfare check on an elderly resident of the wealthy seaside town of Paradise, Massachusetts. Inside a house packed with junk and trash is a man’s dead body. It’s a sad, lonely end, but nothing criminal . . . until Jesse finds the photos of murder victims strewn around the corpse, on top of a treasure trove of $2 million in cash.

Jesse takes on the case and finds a trail leading to an aging mobster who will do whatever it takes to keep the past from coming to light. Before long, Jesse has a price on his head as hit men converge on Paradise to take back the cash and destroy any remaining evidence. But the real danger might be coming from inside his own department. Jesse Stone must unearth the truth buried under the wreckage of a dead man’s life . . . before he winds up in the ground himself. - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was received through Netgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.

By my reckoning, and help from some other book sites on the interwebz, this is the 22nd novel in the Jesse Stone series originally started by Robert B Parker. Once again we are following along in the steps of the Paradise, Mass., police chief Jesse Stone as another crime happens in the peaceful town. If you have read previous novels in this series, and have been able to catch at least one of the several movies made from the books (featuring Tom Selleck) you will more than understand how I picture our MC to look.

This is Farnsworth's first endeavor into the realm of Robert B Parker novels (Spenser, Sunny Randall, Jesse Stone) and he does what I consider a very fine job of doing so. I found the writing style similar to previous novels (by other authors, and Parker himself) and the story moved along at the pace that Parker intended all his stories to go (in my opinion). I really liked how he brought into play the issue regarding 'hoarding', as it seems to occur more often these days, or at least we hear more of it happening. I also liked how he brought up issues with the main character himself, and fears he might be facing (spoiler: being old and alone and dying but no one would notice).

I definitely enjoyed this read, and another trip into the world of Jesse Stone, and I think Farnsworth has done a wonderful job with his first novel into this realm.

Book Review: "In Too Deep" by Lee Child and Andrew Child

 

The gripping new Jack Reacher thriller from the #1 New York Times bestselling authors Lee Child and Andrew Child

Reacher had no idea where he was. No idea how he had gotten there. But someone must have brought him. And shackled him. And whoever had done those things was going to rue the day. That was for damn sure.

Jack Reacher wakes up alone, in the dark, handcuffed to a makeshift bed. His right arm has suffered some major damage. His few possessions are gone. He has no memory of getting there.

The last thing Reacher can recall is the car he hitched a ride in getting run off the road. The driver was killed.

His captors assume Reacher was the driver’s accomplice and patch up his wounds as they plan to make him talk.

A plan that will backfire spectacularly . . . - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was received through Netgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.

I believe this is the 29th book in the Jack Reacher series originally created by Lee Child, and now being written also with his nephew(?) in these past recent novels. The story continues the exploits of our favorite Major Reacher (Ret.) as he travels across whatever states he feels like, with just some cash, his passport, and the willingness to walk. 

I had some feelings prior to starting this novel. Mostly, it was along the lines of 'where are they going to get a story that hasn't already been used' since we are so far into the series. This one started with Reacher having amnesia, and much of the storyline is him figuring out what/who are involved, while trying to recall the short-term memory lapse he has. Not bad on the story line front...

I did see more of a change int he writing style, compared to earlier novels. I think Andrew is doing much more of the writing now, and though trying to stay in character with the dialogue we are used to seeing in other Reacher novels, it just quite doesn't feel the same. I do believe that given some more time, Andrew could tell the tale as well as Lee has done all these years, and perhaps, bring in some ideas that have not been used to date. Overall, it is a Reacher novel and I just love this series!

Book Review: "Opal" by Patricia Wolf

 

A small mining town. A brutal double murder. A killer among them.

DS Lucas Walker is off duty. He's supposed to be showing his little sister Grace the Australian outback, on her visit from Boston, but instead they're headed out bush- where Walker's cousin has been mining for boulder opal. Something seemed off when Walker heard that Blair wanted to get out of Kanpara, so he and Grace are en route to bring him home to Caloodie.

But Kanpara is in Channel Country, and a major flood is on the way.

The atmosphere in the isolated mining town is already tense with rumours of a big opal find, and when Walker, Grace and Blair wake up the next day they find themselves completely cut off. A deluge far north has run off into the rivers that make up this unique ecosystem, and the roads will be impassable for days. As they take in their predicament, Blair receives a shocking phone call.

Two bodies have been found, brutally murdered.

The husband is an immediate suspect, but Walker is not convinced. And when Blair is taken in for questioning, the stakes couldn't be higher. Before the water recedes, he must work with local police to uncover the killer in their midst. Can Walker act fast enough to save his cousin, and keep Grace safe? - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was received through Netgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.

This is the third novel in the DS Walker series, and once again has proven that Wolf has a great story-telling presence. This book starts not too long after the end of the second novel, and finds our MC not only trying to still find the biker leader of previous crimes, but now on a vacation with his visiting little sister from the US. From the synopsis, you can see where this goes from there....

I have been lucky enough to read all three novels of this series, and I anxiously await each one, hoping that this series doesn't just end after a "few books". Not knowing anything about Australia, it's policing system, geography, et cetera, Wolf does a wonderful job of describing ther world detail in a way even a non-resident will enjoy the read.

Book Review: "Bloodlust Bites" by Luanne Bennett

 

Welcome to Crimson, Georgia. I’m Charley Underwood—witch, bar owner, and accidental demon hunter.

Crimson isn’t a regular town. With vampires, shifters, and humans living side by side, tensions always run high. I try to keep the peace, and most of the time nobody gets hurt. Most of the time.

Right now, Crimson is one bite away from all-out chaos.

A dangerous new wolf is stirring up trouble. A sexy vampire is on the hunt, with a gun full of sunlight bullets. And thugs from Atlanta are threatening my friends.

As if that wasn’t enough, my magic is running wild. One second it’s throwing bad guys through windows, the next it fizzles out to nothing. There’s only one way to get it under control—by taking lessons from Crimson’s terrifying old-school coven of witches.

I need to get a handle on it fast. Way out in the woods, someone is attacking young women, leaving them bitten and bloody. Is it a stranger or one of our own?

When police pin the attacks on one of my bartenders, it’s clear that none of this is random. Someone is coming after me and the people I love.

I’ll do anything to protect my crew. Even strike a deal with a vicious old enemy.

Because when I see what I’m fighting against, it’s clear I need all the help I can get. - from Netgalley.com 

This eARC was provided by Netgalley.com and I am giving an unbiased review.

This is the second novel in the Charley Underwood series, and continues the adventures of our newest up and coming witch in Crimson. More trouble has arrived for our MC, and as she deals with the multiple problems that arise, trying to keep everyone (mortal, shifter, vampire) from ending up hurt or dead, and stopping the bad guys.

Overall, this is my basic kind of urban fantasy I prefer to read. It is fairly quick and easy to read, and doesn't necessarily dive into vivid detail if there is some 'romance' going on. We have action, magic, fighting both magical and physical. Small plots twists (to a degree) and multiple things going on that just throw the MC into a tizzy trying to figure out which to face and take care of first. Let's throw in that personal love interest part again, and just mix it all up!

I have enjoyed several other stories from this author, and this one does well keeping my interest in the story. Definitely would recommend for any that like urban fantasy.

Book Review: "Schemes & Scandals" by Kelley Armstrong

 

It’s Mallory Atkinson’s first Christmas in Scotland. Victorian Scotland, that is. Also, as the twenty-first-century detective learns, Christmas really isn’t a thing in Victorian Scotland. It’s all about Hogmanay. But her boss, Dr. Duncan Gray, treats her to an early gift of tickets to the event of the season: a Charles Dickens reading. There, they bump into Lady Inglis—the lovely widow who has sent Gray sexy letters trying to entice him back to her bed.

Lady Inglis introduces Mallory to Dickens—the meeting of a lifetime—but in return she wants their help. She’s being blackmailed. Someone stole letters she wrote to another lover and is threatening to publish them.

Mallory isn’t sure what to make of Lady Inglis, but no woman deserves that, so she insists on taking the case with or without Gray’s help. Growing tension between them soon tells Mallory that Gray is hiding a secret of his own. She has until Hogmanay to uncover the blackmailer…and, hopefully, to put things right with Gray so they can enjoy the holiday together.  - from Netgalley.com 

This eARC was provided by Netgalley.com and I am giving an unbiased review.

So, historical fiction stories are not my favorite reads, but the first book in this series had intrigued me with the plot synopsis, and so I started in on it. Of course, this being a smaller novella between possible longer tales, it was a much shorter read, and I did finish it rather quickly once started. Our MC is still stuck back Victorian Era Scotland, with still no idea, or much hope, at returning to modern day. However, her relationship with Gray is developed more, and still, due to the period, not able to be openly displayed, or even talked about amongst their own privacy. Here there is a nice touch that the MC gets to meet Charles Dickens, who just happens to be one of her favorite authors (coincidental...hmmm).

Overall for the shortness of this story, it flowed well. Sticking to the characters, and events from previous installments, I detected no deviance from what has happened before. How accurate the part of Dickens being in Scotland that possible Yuletide... who is to say. There probably is some record of him making a circuit during the era, but I am not that interested to verify. It sounded well and true to me.

Enjoyed the short work, and because I've got some vested reading into the series, I would definitely recommend and read additional stories if the author presents more. 

Book Review: "Robert B Parker's Hot Property" by Mike Lupica

 

Spenser investigates a case that hits far too close to home for his comfort in this latest installment of Robert B. Parker's beloved series.

Spenser is waiting out the latest Boston snow storm when he gets word that Rita Fiore's been shot. Rita's always been a tricky one: nudging Spenser for years, she's an ever-present figure that transcends friendship in Spenser's circle. Like many of them, at the end of the day, Rita is family. And family will always be protected.

Both a pit bull in the courtroom and provocateur outside it, though, Rita is no stranger to controversy. But as one of the city's toughest lawyers, Spenser knows that there's no short list of suspects who might want to enact revenge. With Rita's life hanging in the balance, it's up to him to get to the bottom of things, even if it means unearthing some savory secrets. -from Netgalley.com

This eARC was given to me by Netgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.

Where do I start with this one? Well, if you remember from the 1980's, there was a television show called Spenser For Hire starring Robert Urich as a private detective in Boston named Spenser. I did not know then, this was based on the first books Robert Parker had put out, but I grew up loving that show. As an adult, I went back and through the library read pretty much the whole series, and some off-shoots as well. This is around/about book 52 in the Spenser series, with the last dozen (guessing) written by a few different authors.

I always love getting back into the character lives of a large series like this one. I have written a few reviews on other books by Lupica, including a Spenser book or two. He has well-mastered the writing style Parker had created and used for his stories, and it just helps (in my mind) how I play the story out in my imagination as I read it. One of the things I really liked about this story, is the connection to many of the other series that Parker had created (Jesse Stone, Sunny Randall). Both of those characters either made an appearance, or were mentioned, at some point in the tale. This series has always been one of my favorites, and would like to see more, but not sure where the story can go after this many books.

Book Review: "Spirit Crossing" by William Kent Krueger

 

A disappearance and a dead body put Cork O’Connor’s family in the crosshairs of a killer in the twentieth book in the New York Times bestselling series from William Kent Krueger­, “a master storyteller at the top of his game” (Kristin Hannah, #1 New York Times bestselling author).

The disappearance of a local politician’s teenaged daughter is major news in Minnesota. As a huge manhunt is launched to find her, Cork O’Connor’s grandson stumbles across the shallow grave of a young Ojibwe woman—but nobody seems that interested. Nobody, that is, except Cork and the newly formed Iron Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police. As Cork and the tribal officers dig into the circumstances of this mysterious and grim discovery, they uncover a connection to the missing teenager. And soon, it’s clear that Cork’s grandson is in danger of being the killer’s next victim. - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was given to me by Netgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.

Krueger's Cork O'Connor series has been one I have enjoyed over the past couple years, and this newest installment just drops me back into their lives and world. The writing style and character world the author has built is just wonderful to read about. A continuing storyline based on previous books (not really what I could call a stand-alone read) is something I just really enjoy. Krueger has a way to bring attention to events that may be fictional in the story, but real issues in our world: oppression of the Native Americans, and how they are treated not just by general public, but Law Enforcement as well; oil pipe-lines and how they could destroy nature, and the fight against the companies that want to build them.

I considered this t book to be well-written and interesting to read. I appreciate how easy it was to read, and become part of the main characters' lives again. Really recommend going back and starting at the beginning of the series for anyone interested in reading this one, and to also check out some of the author's other works as well.

Book Review: "Burn Out" by Joshua Hood

 

From the USA Today bestselling author of Robert Ludlum’s Treadstone series, Burn Out is a no-holds-barred thriller from the “master of action” (Publishers Weekly) Joshua Hood.

Becoming one of the US Forest Service’s elite smoke jumpers has been Jake Slade’s dream. Parachuting into the path of a raging fire and beating it into submission isn’t for the faint of heart, but Slade has never backed down from a challenge. After surviving the grueling six-week training course, he thinks he’s ready for anything nature has to dish out.

What he hasn’t considered is manmade danger, in the form of an old friend turned CI and the DEA Special Agent determined to hunt him down … using Slade as the tracker. It’s an offer he wants to refuse, but with the promise of prison time being expunged from his record, Slade agrees, hoping to finally put to rest the demons of his past.

But what begins as a straightforward search and rescue mission swiftly turns into a harrowing run for his life … - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was given to me through Netgalley.com, and I am providing an unbiased review.

This one was a trial run for me in reading. As a fan of the Bourne movies, and not having read any of Ludlum's works, I wanted to try this author out, plus the story synopsis sounded somewhat interesting. Overall, the story is interesting, and fairly action-filled like one would expect from an action series writer. We have a guy trying to put a bad past behind him, working on being a smoke jumper, whose ties to the earlier life come back to 'haunt' him. We have a cartel boss that sends out a sicario to remove some problems, and it all happens in a  forest that has fires burning all over.

Though interestingly possible for all these scenarios to actually happen, as I read through, it just kept getting more and more unbelievable at times. The story and plot are fairly well developed, and the writing style easy to read and understand. I just discount the level of imagination the writer is wanting me to use for an action novel. This is able to be read as a stand-alone novel, and is not associated with any series that I am aware of.

Book Review: "Candle & Crow" by Kevin Hearne

 

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Iron Druid Chronicles comes the final book in the “action-packed, enchantingly fun” (Booklist) Ink & Sigil series, as an ink-slinging wizard pursues the answer to a very personal mystery: Who cast a pair of curses on his head?

Al MacBharrais has a most unusual job: He’s a practitioner of ink-and-sigil magic, tasked with keeping order among the gods and monsters that dwell hidden in the human world. But there’s one supernatural mystery he’s never been able to solve: Years ago, someone cast twin curses on him that killed off his apprentices and drove away loved ones who heard him speak, leaving him bereft and isolated. 

But he’s not quite alone: As Al works to solve this mystery, his friends draw him into their own eccentric dramas. Buck Foi the hobgoblin has been pondering his own legacy—and has a plan for a daring shenanigan that will make him the most celebrated hobgoblin of all. Nadia, goth queen and battle seer, is creating her own cult around a god who loves whisky and cheese. 

And the Morrigan, a former Irish death goddess, has decided she wants not only to live as an ordinary woman but also to face the most perilous challenge of the mortal world: online dating. 

Meanwhile, Al crosses paths with old friends and new—including some beloved Druids and their very good dogs—in his globe-trotting quest to solve the mystery of his curses. But he’s pulled in so many different directions by his colleagues, a suspicious detective, and the whims of destructive gods that Al begins to wonder: Will he ever find time to write his own happy ending? - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was given to me by Netgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.

As a big fan of the Iron Druid series, I like this offshoot about Al, our Sigil Agent in the same world setting. This is the third book in this line of story, and pretty much continues a very short period after the last one. Some of the problems from earlier books are still lingering (the curse) and a few new ones come up - nothing that this Agent cannot handle though!

This newer series has been a fun read for me. As a fan of this world build Hearne has done for the Iron Druid, the style of magic and it's use, that this blend of specially prepared inks and uses of sigils, brings out yet another aspect that co-exists with an existing world magic. Great read, fulfilling storyline.

Book Review: "The Spore Queen" by Debra Castaneda

 

Forest. Fungi. Family secrets.

Reporter Maria Hart ventures into the depths of Nils Forest chasing a news story about a violent storm, but she never returns. Within months, four other people will also disappear in the woods.

Tech mogul David Eager lives at the forest’s edge. He is haunted by Maria’s disappearance, and something more. Fungus is common in the foggy woodland, but now it’s behaving in unnatural ways, creeping onto his property and into his dreams.

Maria’s friend, Amy Matthews, hears strange rumors about Nils Forest and, motivated by a dark secret, decides to investigate for herself. It’s no easy task. The terrain is notoriously rugged. But Amy is cunning and determined to find her former roommate, dead or alive.

Amy’s not alone. Maria’s mother, desperate for answers about her daughter, joins the search.

Together, they journey into the heart of Nils Forest where they make a chilling discovery—there’s a new fungus in these woods, and it has transformative powers. As they push deeper into the trees, they uncover a terrifying, mind-bending force. Her name is The Spore Queen. - from Booksirens.com 

This eARC was provided by Booksirens.com and I giving an unbiased review.

This is another installment into the 'Dark Earth Rising' books from this author. Admittedly, after having read the others, I was a bit disappointed in this particular novel. Though the story follows the general idea of the Earth retaliating in a strange fashion against humans, this one didn't feel the same. The ending was different, as to events that happened that leads one to believe a mysterious disappearance (or possible destruction) of the malignant force of nature, whereas this time, it was not only supported by followers, but assisted in flourishing. Does this mean a possible follow-up novel, that expands on this particular storyline? Not sure, but would be interesting to find out.

Book Review: "Disturbing the Dead" by Kelley Armstrong

 

Disturbing the Dead is the latest in a unique series with one foot in the 1860s and the other in the present day. The Rip Through Time crime novels are a genre-blending, atmospheric romp from New York Times bestselling author Kelley Armstrong.

Victorian Scotland is becoming less strange to modern-day homicide detective Mallory Atkinson. Though inhabiting someone else’s body will always be unsettling, even if her employers know that she’s not actually housemaid Catriona Mitchell, ever since the night both of them were attacked in the same dark alley 150 years apart. Mallory likes her job as assistant to undertaker/medical examiner Dr. Duncan Gray, and is developing true friends—and feelings—in this century.

So, understanding the Victorian fascination with death, Mallory isn't that surprised when she and her friends are invited to a mummy unwrapping at the home of Sir Alastair Christie. When their host is missing when it comes time to unwrap the mummy, Gray and Mallory are asked to step in. And upon closer inspection, it’s not a mummy they’ve unwrapped, but a much more modern body. - from Netgalley.com 

This eARC was provided by Netgalley.com and I giving an unbiased review.

This is the third book (not counting novellas) int his series, and follows the story of Mallory, a modern day detective, that gets transported back in time to another body in Victorian Scotland. There, luckily she is the housemaid of a 'surgeon' and basically creates herself an assistant position with him as he assists the police in studying dead bodies. It's somewhat convoluted and far-reaching in how a female in that era could do such.

Anyways, though I do, and have, enjoy(ed) many books from this author, and was anxiously awaiting this one to be available, I just could not get into it. I tried setting it aside, and picking it up days later, but still no luck in getting interested. I would love to try to read it again at a later date, as the twist in the plot synopsis intrigues me.

Book Review: "The Mountain Mystic" by Russell W. Johnson

 

Since succeeding her dearly departed husband, Bill, to become Jasper County’s first female sheriff, Mary Beth Cain has closed more cases than any three of her male predecessors combined. But nobody bats a thousand in the cop game. Nobody. And, ovaries aside, Mary Beth knows she’s no different. There’d been a handful of unsolveds during her tenure, victims and families denied their justice, and each and every one of them gnaws at her soul. She thinks about them late at night as she sips her whiskey, counting regrets like sheep.

But the case that haunts Mary Beth most is one that went cold before she was even on the force: the long-ago disappearance of a family friend, named Maria Ruiz. So when a country psychic’s vision leads to the discovery of Maria’s body, Mary Beth isn’t willing to chalk it up as genuine clairvoyance and goes all in on an investigation that cuts close to home. - from Netgalley.com 

This eARC was received from Netgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.

This is a second book following the story of Sheriff Mary Beth Cain of Jasper County, Kentucky. This could be read as a stand-alone, but I always feel better recommending reading in order, though it is not really listed as a series.

I enjoyed the perspective of writing about a female sheriff in a crime-ridden area of 'backwoods Kentucky'. Our MC having family ties to the alleged KY Mafia, and just her own mother being a 'crime boss' says a lot about integrity when it comes to law enforcement work. Granted Mary Beth's way isn't always straight legal either. Storyline is easy to follow, even as it references events that happened years before the current story. Reads as a possible realistic story and comes to a nice conclusion. Would like to see more books like this one.

Book Review: "Buzz Kill" by Alison Gaylin

 Boston PI Sunny Randall is back to investigate the disappearance of a hard-partying energy drink mogul, in the latest thriller in Robert B. Parker’s bestselling series.

After a near-death experience, Sunny Randall is ready to lighten her load as a PI, that is until she is called upon by billionaire media magnate Bill Welch to investigate the disappearance of his son, Dylan, the cofounder of the Gonzo Energy Drink company. Lazy, unscrupulous and a notorious partier, Dylan isn’t exactly reliable. But Dylan’s mother, Lydia, insists this time is different. She knows him. He’s her son. And she believes he’s in serious danger.

Unable to turn down the Welches’ life-changing offer, Sunny takes on the case, starting off by befriending Dylan's smart young business partner, Sky, who seems like his polar opposite. Sky is bright, innovative, ambitious and empathetic -- yet surprisingly, she adores Dylan, and desperately wants Sunny to find him.

As Sunny traces the marks left behind by Dylan’s past, she must unearth all the skeletons in his closet. She discovers not only his bad behavior with women, but also his reckless moves within the business world, producing an energy drink that, despite its marketing, has proven dangerous and even deadly. Still, Sky insists he’s a good man. Who is Dylan, really? And why has he vanished? When bodies start to pile up, Sunny must find answers quick, before she—and those she cares about—get caught in the crossfire. - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was received from NEtgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.

This is the 12th book in the established Sunny Randall series started by Robert Parker. From the book description it is the typical PI story written in Parker's previous style by Gaylin, and reads fairly fast and factual. Having read the inter-related 'Spenser for Hire' and 'Jesse Stone' series, I also have come to really like this series, as I am a fan of Parker's writing and story-telling.

Overall this is a story about the regular length as the rest int he series, and has the MC solving a case whilst mentally struggling with the issues of loving her ex-husband, spending time with said ex, and past love interests, plus life choices in general. This is a good extension of the series, and could be read-alone, but as I always prefer to read from the start of a series just so some of the backstory will be more aware for the reader.

Book Review: "An Instruction in Shadow" by Benedict Jacka

 

The ultra-rich control magic—the same way they control everything else—but Stephen Oakwood may just beat them at their own game in this exhilarating contemporary fantasy from the author of the Alex Verus novels.

Stephen Oakwood has emerged victorious against the schemes of his aristocratic family. Now he finally has the opportunity to do what he’s been wanting to do for a long time: track down his father.  

But doing so won’t be easy. Stephen’s not so isolated any more, but the contacts he’s making in the magical world—everyone from the corporation he works for to the mother he’s just beginning to reconnect with—all have agendas of their own. And now a new group is emerging from the shadows, calling themselves the Winged. Their leader, the mysterious Byron, promises that he can show Stephen how to find his father...but he wants something in return.

Following that trail will throw Stephen into greater danger than he’s ever faced before. To survive, he’ll need to use all of his tricks and sigls, and pick up some new ones. Only then will he be able to prevail against his enemies...and find out who’s really pulling the strings. - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was provided by Netgalley.com and I am providing an unbiased review.

This is the second book in the this series by Jacka, and continues pretty much following the events int he first book. Stephen is still trying to find his father, and figure why his newly-found family is .. well, dysfunctional. While doing all of this he has to handle work, sigl-making, attacks/raids from other people, and groups coming out of the woodwork - all with their wants, needs and for some reason, him.

I felt this part of the series slowed down a bit, and helped explain a bit more of the magic system, than was explained before. It also shows the development of the MC as he has to "find himself" in order to decide how to react to all the chaos going on around him. I am not sure I liked how all these entities are all going after him, considering I did not ever catch what is special about the MC - except he has a rare skill of finding wells (sight?) and maybe of making his own sigls. So that gets a bit boring, but otherwise the story is a pretty good read.

Book Review: "The Fall of Waterstone" by Lilith Saintcrow

 

An elemental witch and her shieldmaiden navigate a dangerous world of forgotten myth and deep magic in the second volume of New York Times bestselling author Lilith Saintcrow’s sweeping Norse-inspired epic fantasy series.

Solveig and her shieldmaid have finally reached the fabled Elder sanctuary of Waterstone—a city of healing, restful beauty hidden from the Enemy’s gaze. Yet whispers race through the palace halls, and those they have come to tentatively trust have hidden intentions. For not only is the city a refuge for an elementalist, her protector, and a mortal prince, it also holds a great weapon, one that only Solveig’s kind may wield.
 
Yet Sol’s faith in her own magic is perilously fractured. She can rely only her wits and skills of negotiation to be heard, or she will become a pawn in a dark game played by Elder and Enemy alike. The lord of the Black Land is mighty; treachery slithers amid Waterstone’s many wonders, and time is growing short.
 
Before the darkness finds a way in, Sol must decide who to trust, where to turn for aid, and if she will take up a power she cannot hope to control. Even the right choice may doom not just the home she has left behind, but the entire world… - from Netgalley.com

This eARC was received from Netgalley.com and I providing an unbiased review.

This is the second book in the 'Black Lands Bane' series by Saintcrow an continues the adventure of Solveig, as she is led on seemingly blindly. This part of the story brings the group to Waterstone, a city of the Elders, a fae-like race. Whilst here, there is treachery within the Elder ranks and the Black Lands creatures invade the hidden city, forcing all to flee or die. This sends our MC out once again to head for yet another 'hidden, Elder city' but now she is carrying within a piece of Waterstone of great value.

It was wonderful to pick up on this story again! Saintcrow has done a wonderful job morphing Norse mythology into a fantasy tale of adventure. I would like to see many more books in this series, but feel it will probably wrap up in the next (and last) installment. Probably best to have read the first novel, so all the backstory is known, but otherwise is easily read and moves along at a good pace.