Rainy Day Ramblings

Review: Christmas with a Cowboy (Longhorn Canyon #5) by Carolyn Brown

 

 

 

A rugged Texas cowboy gets into the Christmas spirit to prove himself to the woman he loves in this heartwarming fifth novel of the USA Today bestselling series. Maverick Callahan lives up to his reputation as a freewheeling cowboy. But a year ago he fell head-over-heels for an extraordinary woman he met while on vacation, a woman he was convinced he'd never see again. So when she appears on his doorstep like a Christmas miracle, Maverick is determined not to waste his lucky break.
Bridget O'Malley's world has flipped upside down. As the new guardian of her best friend's baby, she hasn't had a moment to think about the Texas rancher who broke her heart. He's just as sexy as ever, but she knows better than anyone that he's not the settling-down type. As the trees are trimmed and mistletoe hung, will some holiday magic help Bridget trust this carefree cowboy with her heart and her future?

Includes a bonus novella, "Rocky Mountain Cowboy Christmas" by Sara Richardson
Kindle Edition, 1st edition, 528 pages
Published September 24th 2019 by Forever
Source: Publisher

 

 

Four stars: A delightful romance with holiday cheer and terrific characters.

 

On the last night of his vacation in Ireland, Maverick Callahan happens into an Irish pub. There, he meets a feisty, Irish, red headed bar tender. The two spend an amazing night together before he heads back to America. Neither expects to see the other again, but both leave a piece of their hearts behind. One year later, Bridget’s fortune has changed drastically. She lost her beloved granny and became an instant mother after her friend dies unexpectedly leaving Bridget the care lone caretaker of her infant daughter. When her granny’s life long best friend, Iris, reaches out and offers Bridget a job on her Texas ranch, Bridget accepts the short term job until she figure things out. A few days later, her heart drops to her toes when the very same Maverick Callahan strolls through his grandma’s front door. Will there be a Christmas miracle in store for Bridget?

What I Liked:

• You can’t go wrong with a Carolyn Brown romance, especially a Christmas romance. I liked that this book was packed with all that you love about the holiday season from snow storms, cookies, mistletoe, trim trimming and more. Settle in with a cup of something warm, a blanket and spend an afternoon in Texas. 
• I liked that this one featured a sassy, red headed Irish girl. You don’t get Irish girls in Western romances, so Bridget was something different. I loved her sass and her stubbornness as well as her kind heart. I liked that she was genuine.
• Maverick is a wild cowboy not looking to settle down, or so he thinks until one feisty Irish girl moves into his grandmother’s house with a small baby in tow. It was charming to see this rough cowboy fall head over heels for two Irish lasses. I liked that Maverick was kind and caring and patient as well. He was the perfect male lead. 
• Iris, the elderly grandmother, steals the show. Iris is a former Irish girl herself, and believe me she is full of spunk and sass. I loved that she was always telling like it is. She is also stubborn and fiercely independent. Her sharp tongue made me giggle. I loved Iris!
• If you want holiday cheer, this book has it. Think snow storms, animals, Christmas cookies, kisses under the mistletoe, Christmas carols as well as holiday programs and Christmas miracles. This one was bursting with holiday spirit. The best holiday book I read in 2019.
• The romance is an interesting one. It starts with a night of heated passion. Then it settles in for a long slow dance. I liked that it took plenty of time for this one to find it’s footing. Friendship and trust had to be established before it picked up speed. 
• The ending was just right. All ended in a good spot for this pair, but another couple is waiting in the wings. I am eager to see the next romantic pairing. 

And The Not So Much:

• Even though I liked Bridget’s spunk, there were a few times where her temper got out of hand. She was one who was quick to lash out before knowing the facts.
• The book needed way more of Iris. I was a little sad about Iris’s final decision. 

Christmas with a Cowboy is another charming holiday romance from the talented Mrs. Brown. This is a book that will steal your heart and put you in the mood for the holidays. Grab this one anytime you want a cheerful romance. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and IW as not compensated for this review. 

Review: An Alaskan Christmas (Wild River #1) by Jennifer Snow

 

 

 

In Alaska, it’s always a white Christmas—but the sparks flying between two reunited friends could turn it red-hot…

 

If there’s one gift Erika Sheraton does not want for Christmas, it’s a vacation. Ordered to take time off, the workaholic surgeon reluctantly trades in her scrubs for a ski suit and heads to Wild River, Alaska. Her friend Cassie owns a tour company that offers adventures to fit every visitor. But nothing compares to the adrenaline rush Erika feels on being reunited with Cassie’s brother, Reed Reynolds. Gone is the buttoned-up girl Reed remembers.

His sister’s best friend has blossomed into a strong, skilled, confident woman. She’s exactly what his search-and-rescue team needs—and everything he didn’t know he craved. The gulf between his life in Wild River and her big-city career is wide. But it’s no match for a desire powerful enough to melt two stubborn hearts… 

 

ebook, 384 pages

Published September 24th 2019 by HQN Books

Source: Publisher

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two and a half stars: A book marketed under the guise of being a Christmas read, but this isn’t a holiday book. Instead it is a steamy, winter romance. 

 

Erika Sheraton is a workaholic. She is a talented and dedicated surgeon so much so that she has time for little else in her life. So when her father, the head of the hospital tells her she must take a mandatory two week vacation immediately, Erika is shocked. Even worse, she has no idea where to go or who to spend the time with since she has no life. On a whim, Erika decides to pay a visit to her childhood best friend in Wild River, Alaska. At first, the trip starts out rocky, but Erika quickly reconnects with Cassie and her brother Reed. What Cassie doesn’t expect is to feel sparks of attraction for Reed. She doesn’t have time for love, or does she?

What I Liked:

• An Alaskan Christmas is a tough book for me to review. I picked this up wanting a nice, fluffy holiday read, but this book isn’t that. This is a steamy wintery romance, with a brief mention of the holidays. Still there is stuff to like. I enjoyed the setting, the characters and the search and rescue parts. If you want a winter romance, this is one to try.
• I was fascinated by the search and rescues portions of the story. In the beginning, Reed is introduced while on a rescue mission. I was immediately immersed into this portion of the story. I liked the danger, and the cool head of Reed. Search and Rescue in the wilderness is no joke! 
• I adored Reed. He is an all around good guy. He has a big heart. I especially liked seeing him on a rescue. He is all serious and all about saving lives while on a mission. He was an excellent male lead. 
• The book after a lot of action and drama, finally ends in a great spot. I liked the way it worked out. 

And The Not So Much:

• I picked this up wanting a holiday read. This is not a Christmas book. There is a brief mention of the holidays, but Christmas Day in the book is absolutely dismal. I am not sure why this is being marketed as a holiday book because it really isn’t. This is a winter romance. 
• I was not a fan of Erika. She is a tough sell. She has lots of issues, and she comes off as being an ice queen. I struggled throughout with her character. There was some growth, and I did like the way she changed at the end, but I was never a fan. 
• The romance was a bit much for me. As I said, I was expecting a light, holiday read. Instead I get this steamy, sexy book. I was put off by the insta love vibe. I also got sick of the lust. I don’t know how many times I read about Reed’s jeans bulging. The latter half of the book has pages and pages of sex scenes that I got tired of and skimmed over. It was too much, especially in what I thought was a holiday book.

An Alaskan Christmas is a book plenty of readers are liking, but it was a miss for me. I specifically wanted a holiday read, and this book is not that. There is a mere mention of Christmas, other than that I would consider this a winter romance. I wasn’t a fan of the insta love, lusty romance, and the main character, Erika, was too much of an ice queen for me. If you want a holiday book, skip this one, but if you want a heated romance for winter, this is one to grab. 

 

 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.

Review: Snowfall on Cedar Trail (Sweetwater Springs #3) by Annie Rains

 

 

Last Christmas was tough for Halona Locklear and her seven-year-old son Theo, who hasn't spoken a word since his father's death. This year, Halona wants nothing more than to give him a good holiday and to hear his sweet voice again. Enrolling him in the Mentor Match program might help, but when Theo gets matched with Sweetwater Springs Chief of Police, Alex Baker, Halona realizes that the handsome hero might know secrets about her past that she is determined to keep buried. 

Chief of Police, Alex Baker, re-opens his father's hit-and-run cold case every December, hoping to finally solve it. This year, his plate is full with being a Mentor Match to a young seven-year-old boy as well. His biggest obstacle, however, is fighting his attraction to the boy's mother, Halona. As Alex gets close to solving his father's cold case, he learns that those closest to him may be in danger -- including Halona. Alex has already lost one of the most important people in his life; he isn't about to lose her too, even if it means walking away to keep her safe. 

Includes the bonus novel Then There Was You by Miranda Liasson! 
Kindle Edition, 736 pages
Published October 8th 2019 by Forever
Source: Publisher

 

Four stars: A memorable Christmas tale packed full of holiday cheer, but it is much more than holiday fluff as it takes on some tough stuff too. 

Halona is hoping to have a happier holiday than last year. It has been a year since her husband died due to complications from football head injuries. In the last year, Halona’s son Theo hasn’t spoken a word. He has select mutism, meaning he doesn’t speak due to trauma. Halona wants nothing more than to hear her son speak again. So when an opportunity arises for Theo to be involved in the Mentor Match program, Halona jumps at the chance. Theo is matched with Chief of Police, Alex Baker. Chief Baker has had a crush on Halona since high school, but he never acted on it because Halona is the sister of his best friend. The more Halona and Alex Baker are around one another, the more the sparks fly, but is either one of them willing to risk their heart after so much hurt?

What I Liked:

• Snowfall on Cedar Trail turned out to be a surprising holiday treat. I like that this book was packed full of the holiday stuff like Christmas decorating, holiday parties, cookies, presents and good cheer, but it also takes on some sensitive topics like domestic abuse, chronic traumatic encephalopathy and post traumatic stress disorder. It thought this book had a nice balance between the serious stuff and the fluff. 
• I enjoyed both the main characters: Halona and Alex. Halona is a newly widowed mother trying to balance life with caring for her traumatized son. She still struggles with the way her marriage ended and the death of her husband. Her husband was a star football player suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy, which made his behavior erratic. Despite what Halona has been through, she is a kind and caring person. I loved her big heart, especially when she extended an olive branch to someone who needed it. Alex on the outside might appear as a tough cop, but inside he has a heart of gold. Time and time again, he went over and above for the citizens of Sweetwater Springs, especially when it came to a victim of domestic abuse. I also loved how kind and caring he was toward Theo, Halona’s son suffering from PTSD. 
• The romance is sweet. It is based on years of attraction, but neither ever acted on those feelings. I enjoyed watching the friendship strengthen as the two leaned on one another for support, and then it became so much more. Yes, there were stumbles and moments of stubbornness on both parts, but in the end they get it right.
• As I mentioned, this one takes on plenty of tough stuff. I liked learning more about selective mutism and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Both are topics that I know little about. I thought the author did a great job of incorporating these issues into the story. I also thought the way she handled the domestic abuse was excellent. 
• Even though there are tough moments in the story, in between there are lots of lovely holiday moments that readers love this time of year.
• One of the highlights, and the most surprising parts of the book for me was near the end. The book seems to be building toward a climatic moment, and I was worried as to how it was going to evolve. Then the book took a surprising turn. I loved the way it worked out. The scene in the coffee shop was holiday magic! 
• I appreciated that I was able to jump into this series without having read any of the other books in the series. I was never lost and it was easy to slip into the story as it was a stand alone. 
• The book ends in a nice happy spot. I thought it was the perfect way to end the book. 

And The Not So Much:

• I liked the romance, but there was one point where I thought Halona blew up and made a big deal over nothing. Her behavior was out of line, and I didn’t like it. 
• I wasn’t a big fan of the the whole murder mystery side story. Just my opinion. 

Snowfall on Cedar Trail was a complex holiday book. I liked that this was so much more than fluff. The other takes on some serious topics and balances them beautifully with the holiday cheer. This was an excellent read for the holiday season. If you want more than substance to your holiday reading, this is one to try. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review. 

 

Review: Let It Snow by Nancy Thayer

 

 

A Nantucket shopkeeper discovers that Christmas is the perfect occasion to make unexpected friendships . . . to warm the coldest of hearts--and maybe even find love.

Christina Antonioni is preparing for the holidays at her Nantucket toy shop, unpacking last-minute shipments and decorating for her loyal Christmas shoppers. But when her Scrooge of a landlord, Oscar Bittlesman, raises her rent, it seems nearly impossible for Christina to continue business on the wharf.

Even so, Christina hopes there is a warm heart underneath Oscar's steely exterior. When she bonds with Wink, his sweet, young granddaughter who frequents the shop, it becomes clear that perhaps he isn't so cold after all. And with the help of Wink's uncle, who happens to be a charming and very handsome bachelor, this may be the best Christmas any of them could have ever imagined. Nancy Thayer's enchanting Nantucket setting provides the perfect backdrop for this holiday love story.
Hardcover, 272 pages
Published October 15th 2019 by Ballantine Books
Source: Publisher

 

Three stars: A cute but predictable Christmas story that reads like a Hallmark holiday movie. 

Christina is busy prepping her Nantucket toy store for the holiday season. Unfortunately, Christina and her fellow shop owners receive notification from their new landlord, Oscar Bittlesman, that the rent will be rising twenty percent after the first of the year. The dismal news puts a damper on the holiday season, and Christina fears that her little shop will have to close. Then by chance, Christina befriends a young girl, who happens to be the granddaughter of her miserly landlord. Could Christina’s newfound friendship perhaps be the key to the grinch landlord’s heart?

What I Liked:

• Let It Snow is a holiday book that reads like a holiday movie. It is full of sweet fluff, a little romance and lots of holiday cheer from Christmas cookie baking, tree decorating, caroling, hot chocolate and Christmas shopping. It is predictable, but if you are a fan of the holiday movies, this book will work for you. 
• I liked the Nantucket setting. The little stores on the wharf were charming, though chilly. I liked the holiday feel of the town, it felt cozy and warm. 
• I enjoyed the relationship Christina forms with Wink. At first, the relationship starts out rocky when Christina catches nine year old Wink trying to shoplift from her store. Luckily, Christina has a big heart, and she offers Wink a job. Wink turns out to be a delightful character, and I thought the friendship between the two was one of the highlights of the novel.
• Even though the book was predictable, it was a pleasant read. Nothing overly dramatic, and it ends with a nice feel good Christmas celebration.  

And The Not So Much:

• This book is totally predictable. It was apparent early on what was going to happen, and it played out just like I suspected. It was also a little cheesy at times, but that is to be expected when you are dealing with holiday reads. 
• The romance didn’t work for me. It was too rushed and it had the insta love vibe. I felt like it moved way to fast, and it lacked the friendship and chemistry that I wanted. 
• I was not a fan of the Inner Christina, basically the reader is treated to Christina’s inner self chastising her for this and that. It got annoying. 
• I could not stand Harriet, one of the shop keepers. Harriet is a gold digger. She was constantly complaining about finding a rich man to marry. Yuck. She needed to go away. Could not stand her!

Let It Snow is a book that is full of Christmas fluff and all the stuff you love in a holiday read. My issues with this one were that it was predictable, the romance was of the insta love variety, and one of the characters was irritating. However, if you like cookies, caroling, shopping, decorations and holiday cheer, this is one to try. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review. 

 

Review: Coming Home for Christmas(Haven Point #10) by RaeAnne Thayne

 

Hearts are lighter and wishes burn a little brighter at Christmas…

Elizabeth Hamilton has been lost. Trapped in a tangle of postpartum depression and grief after the death of her beloved parents, she couldn’t quite see the way back to her husband and their two beautiful kids…until a car accident stole away her memories and changed her life. And when she finally remembered the sound of little Cassie’s laugh, the baby powder smell of Bridger and the feel of her husband’s hand in hers, Elizabeth worried that they’d moved on without her. That she’d missed too much. That perhaps she wasn’t the right mother for her kids or wife for Luke, no matter how much she loved them.

But now, seven years later, Luke finds her in a nearby town and brings Elizabeth back home to the family she loves, just in time for Christmas. And being reunited with Luke and her children is better than anything Elizabeth could have imagined. As they all trim the tree and bake cookies, making new holiday memories, Elizabeth and Luke are drawn ever closer. Can the hurt of the past seven years be healed over the course of one Christmas season and bring the Hamiltons the gift of a new beginning? 
ebook, 384 pages
Published September 24th 2019 by HQN Books
Source: Publisher

 

 

 

Four stars: A heartwarming second chance romance with some holiday cheer.

 

After seven years, Elizabeth opens her door to find her long lost husband standing on her porch. He is angry, insisting that she return to Haven Point with him immediately to prevent his arrest for her disappearance. Elizabeth knew this day would come, but she is still terrified. At least she can go home and see her children, but Luke adamantly refuses letting her see the kids. Seven years ago, Elizabeth weighed down by postpartum depression, guilt and grief left her home. Then a terrible accident prevented her from returning. If she tried to explain what really happened would Luke understand? 

What I Liked:

• Coming Home for Christmas is a second chance romance all about family and forgiveness. Even though the book starts out angry, things take a gentle turn, and soon the reader is enveloped in forgiveness, compassion and cozy holiday cheer. 
• I liked the complexity of Elizabeth. In the opening chapters, I wasn’t sure what to make of her character. She ran away from home seven years ago, leaving behind her husband and two young children. As the story progresses, her layers peel back, and the reader understands her tragedy. At that point, my heart went out to her. She was a fighter, and she had so much loss in her life. I wanted desperately for her to be able to forgive herself, and to find a new path forward. 
• Luke also takes some time to get know. At first, he is angry, bitter and closed off. After seven years of accusatory fingers pointed at him blaming him for Elizabeth’s disappearance, he wants some answers. He can’t believe that Elizabeth is living in another state, and not once has she contacted him or their children. However when it matters the most, Luke listens and opens his heart. He is then able to forgive and move forward. I liked that he chose forgiveness. Luke is a good guy, and a kind and caring father. 
• The two children are well written. I liked that the author took time to explore the children's tangled emotions when it came to the reappearance of their long lost mother. I liked the honesty from the kids. 
• I liked the holiday vibe. The author doesn’t overdo it with the holiday theme. Instead there is a subtle sense of the upcoming holidays. I especially enjoyed the kind gesture of holiday giving at the end. 
• I haven’t read any of the previous books in this series, but I had no trouble jumping in with book ten. I was never lost. 
• The book ends one year into the future. I liked seeing how everyone fared. It ends in a good happy spot. 

And The Not So Much:

• With a novel like this, you know how it is going to end. Everything was predictable other than the reason for Elizabeth’s disappearance. 
• This is a small point, but I grew up in Idaho. The town of Haven Point is supposedly a fictional small town set outside Boise. I didn’t feel like the author captured Idaho at all. There was no details that indicated the author had even been to Idaho. 

Coming Home for Christmas is a nice second chance romance that is all about family and forgiveness. I liked that this one explored some deeper issues while maintaining a feel good vibe. I also appreciated the subtle holiday touch. This is nice book for those who want a pleasant holiday read. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.

Review: The Family Journal by Carolyn Brown

 

Join the millions who have fallen in love with New York Times bestselling author Carolyn Brown in her landmark hundredth novel.

At the end of her rope, single mom Lily Anderson is determined to move her rebellious children in the right direction. That means taking away their cell phones, tablets, and computers—at least temporarily—and moving to the house where Lily grew up in the rural town of Comfort, Texas. But Lily has a bigger challenge than two sulking kids.

The house comes with Mack Cooper, high school teacher and handsome longtime renter. The arrangement: just housemates. But Mack’s devoted attention to the kids starts to warm Lily’s resistant heart. Then Lily finds an old leather-bound book in which five generations of her female ancestors shared their struggles and dreams. To Lily, it’s a bracing reminder about the importance of family…and love.

Now it’s time for Lily to add an adventurous new chapter to the cherished family journal—by embracing a fresh start and taking a chance on a man who could make her house a home.
Kindle Edition, 1st edition, 296 pages
Published November 12th 2019 by Montlake Romance
Source: Publisher

 

 

Four and a half stars: A heartfelt novel that focuses on the importance of family and roots. 

After Lily catches her fourteen year old daughter, Holly, smoking a joint and her twelve year old son drinking, she decides it’s time for some tough love. Lily takes away all their electronic devices and moves them from Austin to the small town of Comfort, Texas where she grew up. Lily heads back to her family home, only there is a small problem, she will have a roommate. After her parents died five years ago and her marriage ended, Lily didn’t have the time or the energy to deal with her parent’s house. When Mack, a local man offered to rent it from her as is, she jumped at his offer. Mack being a true gentleman, has no issue with Lily and the kids moving in. Once back in Comfort, Lily discovers a family journal in her mother’s things. The journal begins during the Civil War, with one of Lily’s ancestors. As Lily and Holly read the journal they learn more about the family and their roots. Will they be able to repair their own relationship along the way?

What I Liked:

• I was delighted to get to read The Family Journal, Carolyn Brown’s one hundredth novel. Once again, Mrs. Brown delivers a heartfelt story all about family. This was a joy to read.
• At the beginning of the novel, Lily is a frazzled single mother who missed the warning signs in her own children. I loved that Lily made some hard choices, and that she showed her children tough love. It is a rocky road early on, but once the three of them settle back into Comfort, they rediscover what it means to be a family. Once Lily starts reading the old family journal, she begins to reevaluate her own life, and she learns some important lessons. I loved watching Lily grow. I especially enjoyed seeing her reconnect with her children. 
• The family journal was a fascinating part of the book. Lily discovers an old family journal that was started by one of her ancestors during the Civil War. The journal is passed from one female descendant to the next. Over the years, each woman adds her own narrative to the journal. I thought the journal snippets were an amazing addition to the story. 
• Mack, Lily’s renter, is an absolute joy. He is kind, caring and he ends up being a stabilizing force in Lily and the kids’ lives. I loved his big heart. Even though his own twin brother kicked him in the teeth again and again, Mack still is a great guy. 
• The romance is wonderful. I liked that it started as a friendship with sparks of attraction. It isn’t hurried. It takes it’s sweet time to unfurl. I loved that it was established with trust, respect and kindness. 
• I love that this book is all about family and family roots. This day in age, many of us are too busy to take time to appreciate the small things. This book is a reminder to take time to explore your family roots, and enjoy the simple things in life. 
• After the ugliness between Lily and her ex husband, I was pleased to see positive progress in their relationship. 
• After a few revelations, a few tears and smiles, the book closes in a nice happy spot. I closed the book content. Loved this one. 

And The Not So Much:

• I have to admit, when the journal opened with a Southern woman in the midst of the Civil War, I was excited. I was disappointed though to find that there were only one or two entries from each woman through the years. I wanted a few more entries in the past, as I loved learning about each woman. 
• Grandma Hayes was a fascinating character. She is a ninety seven year old woman who lives by herself in a small cabin. She rides her mule every week to church and keeps to herself. I loved her tenacity and the way she took care of herself. I wanted more of her story.

The Family Journal is a heartwarming story that gently reminds us the importance of family and taking time to enjoy the small things in life. I loved that this was a story about a woman reconnecting with her family roots as she struggled to redirect her children. This is a delightful book for those who want a heartfelt story. Congratulations to Carolyn Brown for publishing this as her hundredth novel. Here is to many more!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review. 

Review: Sweep of the Blade (Innkeeper Chronicles #4) by Ilona Andrews

 

Maud Demille is a daughter of Innkeepers—a special group who provide ‘lodging’ to other-planetary visitors—so she knows that a simple life isn't in the cards. But even Maud could never have anticipated what Fate would throw at her. Once a wife to a powerful vampire knight, Maud and her young daughter, Helen, were exiled with him for his treachery to the desolate, savage planet of Karhari. Karhari killed her husband, and Maud—completely abandoned by his family—has spent over a year avenging his debts. Rescued by her sister Dina, she's sworn off all things vampire. Except... In helping Dina save the world, she met Arland, the Marshal of House Krahr, one of the most powerful vampire houses. One thing led to another and he asked for her hand in marriage. She declined. Arland is not used to hearing the word ‘no;’ and try as she might, Maud can't just walk away from Arland. It doesn't help that being human is a lot harder for Maud than being a vampire. To sort it all out, she accepts his invitation to visit his home planet. House Krahr is extremely influential and Maud knows that a woman—a human, with a very questionable past—who's turned down a proposal from its most beloved son won't get a warm reception. Maybe she’s not sure about marrying Arland, but House Krahr isn’t going to decide for her. Maud Demille has never run from a fight, and House Krahr will soon discover that there's a lot more to Maud than they’re expecting. 
Kindle Edition, 322 pages
Published July 16th 2019 by NYLA
Source: Purchased

 

 

 

Four and a half stars: A brilliant, kick butt story all about Maud. Unfortunately, there were no answers for Dina’s part of the story!

Maud is torn. Part of her wants to stay at Gertrude Hunt, her sister’s inn, with her daughter Helen and live in peace after the last few tumultuous years she endured. Yet, another part of her knows that Helen, who is half vampire, half human, needs to be among vampires. Plus, there is the whole quandary about Arland. If Maud wants to really see if the two can make their budding relationship work, she is going to have to fit in amongst his people. Thus, a trip to Arland’s home is scheduled. Once at House Krahr, Maud quickly immerses into the vampire world, where she finds she has many enemies who underestimate her. Will Maud prove that she can survive in House Krahr or will she die trying?

What I Liked:

• After finishing book three: The Sweep of the Blade, I immediately jumped into book four wanting answers to the cliffhanger. I was a disappointed to find at first, that this book was Maud’s story. So even though I didn’t get the long awaited answers I was seeking from Dina’s part of the story, once I settled in I had an amazing time with Maud and the gang. 
• In book three, Maud, Dina’s long lost older sister is introduced. Maud was living amongst the vampires since she married a vampire. Then her husband’s stupidity and arrogance got him killed and Maud and her young daughter were exiled to a vicious planet known as the armpit of the universe. Even though Maud has her back against the wall, she never surrenders. She fights and does whatever it takes to survive. I loved how fierce and intelligent Maud is. Once she arrives at House Krahr, she doesn’t let the vampires intimidate her. She proves her worth time and time again, whether it be saving the House from a devastating attack, to helping secure relations with alien species and finally saving face for House Krahr. Maud is a force to be reckoned with, and I adored her. 
• Arland won my heart in this book. Before he was a third wheel to Dina and Sean, but in this book, he shows his capable ruler side. What I liked best about him was that he was always prepared to back Maud up, but he didn’t run to her defense. Instead he stands back and lets Maud shine, never being intimidated. I also loved that he never, not once even when under duress from his mother, did Arland pressure Maud into a relationship. He always left the ball in Maud’s court. He was sexy, adoring and willing to stand in Maud’s shadow! Love that. 
• I like that the vampires in this series aren’t your typical vampires. They don’t drink blood and all that. Instead there are a fierce warriors always looking for a good fight. No sexy, brooding night time creatures in this series!
• If you like action, this one has it in spades. There are numerous fight scenes that will have you on the edge of your seat. Not to mention, treachery, betrayal and lots of plotting. I loved the twists and turns. 
• The book builds and builds to a thrilling climax that culminates with a huge, bloody battle. It was thrilling. Then when the dust settled, the book ended in a nice, bright spot while leaving, of course, another tantalizing cliffhanger hint. I need more of this series stat!

And The Not So Much:

• I have to admit, I was disappointed when I started this one. After the cliffhanger at the end of book three, I immediately bought book four and plunged in expecting answers to Dina’s predicament. I didn’t even read the synopsis, so I was surprised to find I was reading Maud’s point of view. I wasn’t thrilled with the backtracking in the first chapters, because I had read them recently and I was dying for answers. Unfortunately, I didn’t get any answers for Dina’s part of the story. That left me very frustrated. However, once I settled in, I enjoyed Maud’s story. 

Sweep of the Blade is another fantastic installment in an addictive series. If you like the Ilona Andrews brand of action and story telling, this series is a must. I love the fierce characters, the story, the world building and the romance. My only complaint is that I was desperately seeking answers after the cliffhanger at the end of book three, but there are absolutely none to be found in this book. Thus, I am eagerly awaiting the release of book five. I hope I will then get my answers. 

I purchased a copy of this book. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review. 

Read the series:

Review: Ninth House (Alex Stern #1) by Leigh Bardugo

 

Galaxy “Alex” Stern is the most unlikely member of Yale’s freshman class. Raised in the Los Angeles hinterlands by a hippie mom, Alex dropped out of school early and into a world of shady drug dealer boyfriends, dead-end jobs, and much, much worse. By age twenty, in fact, she is the sole survivor of a horrific, unsolved multiple homicide. Some might say she’s thrown her life away. But at her hospital bed, Alex is offered a second chance: to attend one of the world’s most elite universities on a full ride. What’s the catch, and why her?

Still searching for answers to this herself, Alex arrives in New Haven tasked by her mysterious benefactors with monitoring the activities of Yale’s secret societies. These eight windowless “tombs” are well-known to be haunts of the future rich and powerful, from high-ranking politicos to Wall Street and Hollywood’s biggest players. But their occult activities are revealed to be more sinister and more extraordinary than any paranoid imagination might conceive.

The mesmerizing adult debut from #1 New York Times bestselling author Leigh Bardugo. 
Hardcover, 458 pages
Published October 8th 2019 by Flatiron Books
Source: Library

 

Three and a half stars: A book with high expectations but the pedantic pace, long length and dark disturbing subject matter make this not a book for everyone. 

 

Alex Stern just landed the break of a lifetime. After spending the majority of her teenage years living on the streets, abusing drugs and being abused by drug dealer boyfriends, and finally a horrific near death experience, Alex gets a second chance. In the hospital, Alex is visited by a benefactor from Yale who offers her a full scholarship to attend the university. What is the catch? Alex must monitor the secret societies of Yale. At Yale, there are eight windowless tombs that hide the rich and powerful who are all part of these secret societies. Alex has a gift, she can see spirits, and once at Yale, she learns things are far more sinister than she ever imagined. Occult activities abound, and some signs even point to murder. Who is behind these societies and how far will they go?

What I Liked:

• Ninth House is a book that is generating a great deal of buzz. Some will find this fantasy/ horror/ paranormal tale fascinating, while others may be put off by the dark themes and dark subject matter. Whether you love it or hate, one thing is for sure, Leigh Bardugo is an author to be reckoned with. In this novel she brings us the dark and lurid world of the Yale secret societies. Of course, there is real life inspiration in this book, which makes it all the more fascinating.
• Alex Stern is an unlikely heroine. She is unapologetic, brass and determined. Her childhood was haunted by ghosts and spirits, which she managed to ignore, until one spirit attempted to assault her. From that moment on, Alex is blacklisted, no one believes her, not even her mother. Alex hardens her heart and learns to survive. She is a warrior of the streets. Unfortunately, Alex discovers that drugs block her abilities to see the dead, so she spends a great deal of time on drugs. As you can see, Alex has a dark side, but she is interesting, so much so that I enjoyed following her and learning her secrets. Her rough upbringing makes her a force to be reckoned with when she is dealing with the rich and powerful. I wasn’t sure how I felt about Alex at first, but she really grew on me. 
• The whole idea of the secret societies is fascinating. Of course, there have  always been rumors surrounding these secret organizations, but no one knows what really goes on. Ms. Bardugo steps in and provides her own chilling glimpse into these societies. Think occult magic, paranormal activity, ghosts, demons and more. Yikes! This is a dark and scary world, and I thought Bardugo did a brilliant job. 
• The story line is convoluted, and it takes a good long while before the reader grasps the main story arc. Once I settled in and had a handle of the main frame of the story, I began to enjoy it. Be prepared for lots of twists and turns and big surprises!
• The climax is bloody brilliant. The story builds and builds up to a thrilling and terrifying peak. I was blown away by the final reveals and twists. It was a shocker!
• After the dust settles, a thread is laid for the next book. A bit of a cliffhanger, but not so terrible. It definitely left me wanting to know more. 

And The Not So Much:

• The pace of this one is pedantic and mind numbing at times. The story gets weighed down, especially early on with lots of mundane details. It was very slow moving, and I struggled with the pace, wondering where the story was going. It wasn’t until the half way point when I began to grasp the main thread that I began to enjoy the tale. This one required patience, and many readers are setting it aside as they don’t have the patience or they aren’t willing to commit to this one. It isn’t an easy read. 
• If you are sensitive to dark themes, this one isn’t for you. There are lots of disturbing and rather nasty scenes in this one, including rape, murder, drug use and even consumption of human waste. This book isn’t for the faint of heart. 
• There is a lot going on in this story, it requires extreme patience. I can’t see dragging this out and reading it over a long period of time as there is so much to keep track of. 

Ninth House was a book that I went into with high expectations, but ended up a little disappointed. This book required extreme patience. The pace is slow and the first portion is filled with many mundane details. Once the story takes off in the second half, things get interesting. Beware of the dark themes and touchy subjects. I am on the fence as we whether or not I will continue this series. 

I borrowed a copy of this book from the library. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review. 

Review: One Fell Sweep (Innkeeper Chronicles #3) by Ilona Andrews

 

 

Dina DeMille may run the nicest Bed and Breakfast in Red Deer, Texas, but she caters to a very particular kind of guest… the kind that no one on Earth is supposed to know about. Guests like a former intergalactic tyrant with an impressive bounty on her head, the Lord Marshal of a powerful vampire clan, and a displaced-and-superhot werewolf; so don’t stand too close, or you may be collateral damage. 

But what passes for Dina’s normal life is about to be thrown into chaos. First, she must rescue her long-distant older sister, Maud, who’s been exiled with her family to a planet that functions as the most lawless penal colony since Botany Bay. Then she agrees to help a guest whose last chance at saving his civilization could bring death and disaster to all Dina holds dear. Now Gertrude Hunt is under siege by a clan of assassins. To keep her guests safe and to find her missing parents, Dina will risk everything, even if she has to pay the ultimate price. Though Sean may have something to say about that!!
Kindle Edition, 340 pages
Published December 20th 2016 by NYLA
Source: Library

 

 

 

Four stars: A thrilling installment in an exciting series. This book solidifies the romance while introducing another kick butt character. 

Dina is hoping to rest and relax after hosting the harrowing peace summit. Unfortunately, her plans go out the window when she receives a message form her sister. Maud is trapped on an armpit planet, and the only way to help is to perform a daring rescue. Luckily, Dina has two skilled fighters to assist her. One werewolf assassin named Sean, and Arland the Lord Marshal of a high ranking vampire clan. Then things get even more intense when a strange alien guest whose entire species is in danger of being snuffed out, shows up at Gertrude Hunt begging for her help. Harboring the guest puts Gertrude Hunt under siege by a clan of deadly assassins aimed on killing her guest. Will Dina and the inn survive?

What I Liked:

• One Fell Sweep is intense. I liked that this one had a tighter plot, more focus on core characters and loads of action. There is rarely a dull moment in this one! If you are a fan of Ilona Andrews, this is a must read series. 
• Maud enters the picture. She is Dina’s sister who has been living amongst the vampires for the last few years. Maud has been through hell, but she survived and ensured the survival of her half vampire daughter, Helen. There is nothing delicate about Maud. She is a fierce and deadly fighter, someone who can kill even the most deadly vampire fighter. I loved Maud’s ferocious tenacity, but I also liked seeing her softer side. 
• This book features two romances. I liked that it squelched the attempted love triangle, and the reader is treated to the beginnings of two romances. I appreciated that both romances take time, and that they are based on mutual admiration and friendship. So much fun!
• The main plot centers around Dina trying to protect an alien guest from assassins. The assault on the inn is non stop, and loads of action. It was thrilling seeing Dina thwarting the assassins, dealing with the local law enforcement and everything else. So many twists and turns!
• The end is a thrilling culmination of events.There is so much going on it makes your head spin. A huge stand off comes to a dramatic end with jaw dropping finality. I didn’t see that coming and that coming! 
• Once the dust settles, there is one final stunning reveal surrounding Dina’s new cat: The Ripper of Souls. I wanted the next book now!

And The Not So Much:

• The final chapters are intense. So much is going on that it is hard to keep track of everything. Then there is a big reveal as one of the innkeeper enforcers is revealed. I was confused at first because there is so little information on these secret inn keepers. I wish the authors had provided more detail on these special innkeepers. 

One Fell Sweep is intense and thrilling. The best in the series to date! I loved that this one introduced us to Dina’s sister Maud, as well as a secondary romance. Prepare for non stop action and lots of big dramatic reveals. I can’t wait for the next book after that ending!

I borrowed a copy of this book from the library. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review. 

Read the series:

Review: Sweep in Peace (Innkeeper Chronicles #2) by Ilona Andrews

 

 

 

Dina DeMille doesn’t run your typical Bed and Breakfast. Her inn defies laws of physics, her fluffy dog is secretly a monster, and the only paying guest is a former Galactic tyrant with a price on her head. But the inn needs guests to thrive, and guests have been scarce, so when an Arbitrator shows up at Dina's door and asks her to host a peace summit between three warring species, she jumps on the chance. Unfortunately, for Dina, keeping the peace between Space Vampires, the Hope-Crushing Horde, and the devious Merchants of Baha-char is much easier said than done. On top of keeping her guests from murdering each other, she must find a chef, remodel the inn... and risk everything, even her life, to save the man she might fall in love with. But then it's all in the day's work for an Innkeeper... 
Kindle Edition, 315 pages
Published November 13th 2015 by NYLA
Source: Library

 

 

Three and a half stars: An exciting story with a fantastic premise, but the story got muddled and confusing with too many secondary characters.

 

Dina is worried about her the rating of her inn known as Gertrude Hunt. If her star rating drops anymore, she won’t be able to keep the doors open. The problem is that Dina’s inn doesn’t cater to the average traveler. Her inn has magical powers and it is meant to hide and host paranormal entities and space travelers. If the inn doesn’t host guests, it can’t thrive, and guests seem to be scarce. When an arbitrator shows up at Dina’s door with a wild proposition: to host an intergalactic space summit between three warring factions, Dina must take it otherwise her inn might not survive. The only problem is that her guests might murder one another before the summit ends. Will Dina and Gertrude Hunt survive the peace summit?

What I Liked:

• It’s been three years since I read the first novel in the Innkeeper Series, so I decided to reacquaint myself with this entertaining series. I love Dina and the magical abilities of her inn. There is never a boring moment in this one. 
• I love the whole concept of the magical, sentient inn. Gertrude Hunt bonded with Dina, the innkeeper, can do extraordinary and magical things. The inn can transform itself, changing to host the guests. The inn also has many unique and exciting ways to protect itself. I loved uncovering all the abilities of Gertrude Hunt. 
• I enjoyed watching Dina grow as a character and as an innkeeper. She learned to flex her magical muscles when it came to transforming her inn and protecting her guests. 
• Caledonia, the reclusive guest, continues to grow more and more fascinating. She is dangerous, witty and has so many secrets. I want to continue to peel back her layers. 
• Orro, the chef, was a fantastic addition to the cast. I love that he was talented, emotional and prickly!
• There is a hint of romance, which I am loving. I like that the romance moves slowly.
• This book is jam packed with action. It hardly ever lets up. Prepare for plenty of battles and lots of drama.
• After the dust settles, the book ends in a good spot. I can’t wait for more. 

And The Not So Much:

• My biggest complaint with this one is that the cast of characters was large and diverse. It got tiresome trying to keep track of everything. I usually listen to Ilona Andrews books, but this is one that I am grateful that read this one. I found myself wishing for a little more simplicity with this one. 
• There is also a lot to keep track of in this one as it involves interplanetary warfare. It honestly was frustrating to keep track of the characters, the dilemmas and who was plotting against whom. 

Sweep in Peace was an exciting installment in a unique series. I am fascinated by the concept of a magical, sentient inn and the magic of the innkeeper. My complaint with this one is that I felt like the story got muddled with too many characters and heavy handed world building. Still if you are a fan of the Ilona Andrews duo, this is one to read. 

I borrowed a copy of this book from the library. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.