Book Review: Shield of Winter by Nalini Singh

Author: Nalini Singh

Title: Shield of Winter

Series: Psy-Changeling #13

Genre: PNR, Urban Fiction

Format: ebook

Pages: 448

Published: June 3, 2014

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Assassin. Soldier. Arrow. That is who Vasic is, who he will always be. His soul drenched in blood, his conscience heavy with the weight of all he’s done, he exists in the shadows, far from the hope his people can almost touch—if only they do not first drown in the murderous insanity of a lethal contagion. To stop the wave of death, Vasic must complete the simplest and most difficult mission of his life.

For if the Psy race is to survive, the empaths must wake.

Having rebuilt her life after medical “treatment” that violated her mind and sought to stifle her abilities, Ivy should have run from the black-clad Arrow with eyes of winter frost. But Ivy Jane has never done what she should. Now, she'll fight for her people, and for this Arrow who stands as her living shield, yet believes he is beyond redemption. But as the world turns to screaming crimson, even Ivy’s fierce will may not be enough to save Vasic from the cold darkness . . .

Review:

I've been terrible. I finished this a couple of days ago, but I've been sooooo dang busy. We'll divide and conquer this review. 

Please note that this would not work well as a standalone. You need to read all the others prior. 

The Good:

- So many couples from the past books have popped up! This is a big conclusion to some stuff! It was lovely seeing them. 

- Intense action. I was on the edge of my seat. Will this gamble pay off? 

- Vasic and Ivy make a great pair. I was nervous because it would take someone really special to deserve Vasic. He's been such a great side character. 

- That ending? I had some tears. 

The Bad and the Ugly:

- The pacing was off sometimes. At times, we were moving at a snail's pace, and I wanted to skim through, but then we were off to the races. It was jarring at times. 

Conclusion:

Overall, I really did enjoy this conclusion to this arc of the story. There is more to follow, but all the past books of this series have been building up to this moment. The pacing was a little off in spots, but overall....this was good. I'll give it 4 stars. 

Reading Challenges

- Library Love #8

- Reading Romance Challenge #9 (TBR 2+ years)

Audiobook Review: Turn of Fate by Anne Bishop

Author: Anne Bishop

Narrator: Jesse Vilinsky
Title: Turn of Fate

Series: Isle of Wyrd #1

Genre: UF, Paranormal
Format: Audiobook
Published: November 11, 2025
Where I Got It: My shelf (Xmas gift)

Summary: 

Words have power. Intentions matter.

Most people come to Destiny Park for entertainment. They come to have their cards read to tell them a bit about their future. They come to walk through a beautiful park and to eat at the hotel’s restaurant. They come in the hope of catching a glimpse of the Arcana, the paranormal beings who rule the Isle of Wyrd.

But some people come to make a bargain with the Arcana—to change their fate. And some people come for dark purposes.

When Detective Beth Fahey is sent to Destiny Park to inquire about a “ghost gun,” she will begin a strange journey on which she must learn to navigate the Arcana’s unforgiving laws and dangerous attractions. Her search will draw her into seemingly impossible cases and the secrets of her own past as tensions rise between the Arcana and their human neighbors across the river.

For the Isle of Wyrd is a place where the dead ride trains to their final destinations, predators literally become prey, and seekers’ true natures are revealed in the ripples of destiny unknowingly stirred in their wakes.

Who will live? Who will die? And who will be lost in between?

Review:

I had my eye on this when it was first released. A lovely friend gifted me the audio for Xmas, and I finally got a chance to dive in!

The Isle of Wyrd is...well...weird. People on the other side of the river come by to get their tarots read or enjoy a day trip. Maybe catch a view of one of the paranormals that live on the island! There are some humans who arrive to strike a deal with the Arcana to help change their fate, and others come for darker reasons. Beth is the newest cop on the team that deals with weird cases that might be connected to the Arcana or the Isle. Beth draws the short straw and has to take on the case of the "ghost gun." This will lead her down a journey that will change her life forever. 

Sadly, this is not connected to the other series I love by this author, BUT this has the beginnings of a series I might end up loving too. This is just so fresh and entertaining. I really didn't want to stop listening. 

The Arcana and the Isle of Wyrd sound so scary, but if you follow the rules and aren't an asshole, you will be fine. But of COURSE there are humans that can't do it. They are just dumb and evil. *rolls eyes* 

We had a lot of side characters and some subplots that don't seem related, but they are in some weird way. It was done so well that you don't lose focus and it actually helps push the plot. It helps the understanding of the story and the messages that the Arcana are not ones to mess with. "Fuck around and find out" should be the tagline to this story. 

I loved the Arcana, and I loved some humans. I hope to see them in book 2!!!

The ending was lovely. 

The narrator was fantastic. 

I really, really fell in love with this book. 100% recommended. 

5 stars.

Reading Challenges

- Audiobook #6

Re-listen: Murder of Crows by Anne Bishop

Author: Anne Bishop

Narrator: Alexandra Harris
Title: Murder of Crows

Series: The Others #2

Genre: UF, Paranormal
Format: Audiobook
Published: March 4, 2014
Where I Got It: My shelf (Audible)

Summary: 

After winning the trust of the Others residing in the Lakeside Courtyard, Meg Corbyn has had trouble figuring out what it means to live among them. As a human, Meg should be barely tolerated prey, but her abilities as a cassandra sangue make her something more.

The appearance of two addictive drugs has sparked violence between the humans and the Others, resulting in the murder of both species in nearby cities. So when Meg has a dream about blood and black feathers in the snow, Simon Wolfgard—Lakeside’s shape-shifting leader—wonders if their blood prophet dreamed of a past attack or a future threat.

As the urge to speak prophecies strikes Meg more frequently, trouble finds its way inside the Courtyard. Now, the Others and the handful of humans residing there must work together to stop the man bent on reclaiming their blood prophet—and stop the danger that threatens to destroy them all.

Review:

I picked this for our re-reads session of my Book Club. I made everyone read book 1 the last time, and they liked it....so I made them read book 2 ;) Plus, I've been itching for some more. This series has evolved into a comfort book series FOR sure. 

Weee third time is a charm!

Humans are at it again. The Others are just trying to live. Meg is trying to find balance and her footing. She gained their trust, but there are still some issues.

I remember finding Meg so annoying and slowly warming up to her as the books goes along. Now I love her. I love all our mains. I'm team Others. I would want to work there. 

This is sad. We get to see a glimpse of how the Humans treated people like Meg, and it will make you mad. So sad. Some trigger warnings to be had. Nothing in great detail happens, but it is mentioned, and you can assume the worse. 

Ooooh, that ending. 

The narrator is a gem, and I can't imagine anyone else doing this series. 

Originally, I had this at a 4 the last two times I read it. Seems like it was because of my frustrations with Meg and Simon having so many issues. Silly issues at times. Yes, still silly in my opinion. I might just keep it at 4. 

Reading Challenges

- Audiobook #5

Book Review: Dime Store Magic by Kelley Armstrong

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Title: Dime Store Magic

Series: Otherworld #3

Genre: Paranormal Romance, UF, Fantasy

Format: ebook

Pages: 448

Published: February 10, 2004

Where I got It: Library

Summary: 

Paige Winterbourne was always either too young or too rebellious to succeed her mother as leader of one of the world's most powerful elite organizations- the American Coven of Witches. Now that she is twenty-three and her mother is dead, the Elders can no longer deny her. But even Paige's wildest antics can't hold a candle to those of her new charge- an orphan who is all too willing to use her budding powers for evil... and evil is all too willing to claim her. For this girl is being pursued by a dark faction of the supernatural underworld. They are a vicious group who will do anything to woo the young, malleable, and extremely powerful neophyte, including commit murder- and frame Paige for the crime. It's an initiation into adulthood, womanhood, and the brutal side of magic that Paige will have to do everything within her power to make sure they both survive.

Review:

I put this series on hold yeeeaaaaaarrrrsss ago. I can't remember the precise reason, but I do remember being cautious because the series switched from our clan of werewolves to this witch lady. I get nervous when series do that. 

But yes, we are back in the Otherworld. We follow Paige who no one thinks is good enough to replace her mother one day as the leader of the American Coven of Witches. That one day has arrived and the Elders can no longer deny her. However, things will take a nose-dive when her new charge is presented. This orphan is all too willing to use her budding powers for evil and she is being pursued by a dark faction. Will Paige be able to save her charge and bring her back to the light? Or will darkness consume her. 

Overall, I did enjoy this for what it was. It was nice coming back to this world but I didn't recognize any from the first two books. I mean...it has been years and maybe there was an old face I didn't recall. But I missed our wolves. Witches are fun, but I do prefer wolves and vamps. 

Paige was kinda meh to me. Boring and predictable. I've seen her kind a million times. By the end I was amused with her, but still....meh. 

Savannah was annoying. I get it. She had a tough life and the darkness seems like an easy way. I wanted to smack her. 

Cortez was meh. Boring as well. I couldn't even remember his name. I had to look at another review to remind myself. 

The drama and fights were fun....I will say that. 

In the end, this was just okay. Not my favorite group of heroes. I miss the old crew. 3 stars. 

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #31

Book Review: Snake-Eater by T. Kingfisher

Author: T. Kingfisher

Title: Snake-Eater

Genre: Paranormal, UF, Horror, Fantasy, Mystery

Format: ebook

Pages: 267

Expected Publication: December 1, 2025

Where I got It: Kindle Unlimited

Summary: 

ith only a few dollars to her name and her beloved dog Copper by her side, Selena flees her past in the city to claim her late aunt’s house in the desert town of Quartz Creek. The scorpions and spiders are better than what she left behind.

Because in Quartz Creek, there’s a strange beauty to everything, from the landscape to new friends, and more blue sky than Selena’s ever seen. But something lurks beneath the surface. Like the desert gods and spirits lingering outside Selena’s house at night, keeping watch. Mostly benevolent, says her neighbor Grandma Billy. That doesn’t ease the prickly sense that one of them watches too closely and wants something from Selena she can’t begin to imagine. And when Selena’s search for answers leads her to journal entries that her aunt left behind, she discovers a sinister truth about her new home: It’s the haunting grounds of an ancient god known simply as “Snake-Eater,” who her late aunt made a promise to that remains unfulfilled.

Snake-Eater has taken a liking to Selena, an obsession of sorts that turns sinister. And now that Selena is the new owner of his home, he’s hell-bent on collecting everything he’s owed.

Review:

I stumbled upon this while looking for something else. Amazon Unlimited allowed some folks to read this in advance of publication, so that was exciting! Weeeee! I really need more of T Kingfisher's books in my life. 

Here we have Selena, who is abandoning her old life to claim her late aunt's house in the desert town of Quartez Creek. Everything is so new and strange, but so beautiful. The neighbors are lovely and she loves the quiet. However, there is something lingering outside of Selena's house at night.....keeping watch. Her neighbor, Grandma Billy, says it is mainly benevolent, but Selena can't shake the feeling there is more to this story. She soon discovers the sinister truth about an ancient god known as Snake-Eater. 

You never know what to expect from this author. There are always so many twists and turns. You just never know where the story is headed next, and I simply LOVE that. 

I will say this wasn't as haunting or even creepy as some of the other stories I've read by her. It still had some creepiness, but this felt a bit more calm. Not complaining! The last one has scarred me a bit hahahahaha. This had an odd sense of...coziness to it. Yes, there is mystery and fantasy and horror, but I loved the cozy vibes given off. I loved that Selena was finding her voice and finding new friends. They were so sweet. 

What else??? Eeeek. I don't want to spoil anything!!!!

This was a fun story. Not my favorite by the author, but I still really enjoyed it. It had a great cast of characters and a nice spooky, but comfy vibe. I def recommend this. 

4 stars. 

Audiobook Review: Blind Date with a Werewolf by Patricia Briggs

Author: Patricia Briggs

Narrator: Holter Graham
Title: Blind Date with a Werewolf

Series: Alpha & Omega
Genre: UF, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy
Format: Audiobook
Published: October 21, 2025
Where I Got It: My shelf (Audible)

Summary: 

Dear Asil:

We are worried about you. A werewolf alone is a sad thing, especially at Christmastime. So we have a challenge for you: five dates in three weeks. We have taken the work out of it and connected you with five people from online dating sites. You should also know that we have informed the whole pack and instigated a betting pool. Have fun!

Sincerely,

Your Concerned Friends

Review:

Weeee been wanting more from this series and/or world for a bit now. One negative about being caught up. ;) 

Here we have a collection of short stories following Asil taking on the Christmastime date challenge. A "concerned friend" has lined up 5 dates for Asil to go on. He has not been right in the head or heart in years...many, many, years. In a weird way he's excited to get out and prove his friends wrong that he can act normal. 

This is technically "standalones" but I totally encourage reading the other books of the world first before this. 

I simply and utterly adored this collection. Asil is a gem and I'm so glad we got to follow him find himself and maybe love. ADORABLE. We got to see a side of Asil never shown in the other books. He's been rotting away as a side character that we all love (find me one person who doesn't like him...I have a presentation to show them hehe). He's such a deadly werewolf, but man is he kind. He love protecting those who cannot protect themselves. 

But yes. 5 dates. 5 people who may be friend, foe, or more. Each date was soooo different but they each had a lesson for our Asil. 

That ending???? EEEEEK. ADORABLE!!! I hope we see more. 

The author did a lovely job. His voices for everyone was fitting. I believe he did the others in this series. He's good. 

Did I say this was adorable? I may have. 

But yes, I loved it. 

5 stars. 

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #56

Audiobook Review: Hex Around and Find Out by Molly Harper

Author: Molly Harper
Narrator: Amanda Ronconi & Teddy Hamilton
Title: Hex Around and Find Out
Series: Moonshadow Cove #2
Genre: Paranormal Romance, UF, Fantasy, Mystery
Format: Audiobook 
Published: October 2, 2025
Where I Got It: Audible

Summary: 

As the middle sister in a trio of sea witches, Cora Seaworth has spent most of her life hidden away at her family’s magical cottage on Moonshadow Cove. She’s claimed her own corner of the library, cozied up with her favorite novels and a ghost cat named Nicodemus. She’s the deep thinker among her more tempestuous sisters, so she isn’t prepared to be swept up in a real-life romantic adventure in the form of sexy local baker Iggy Galinsky.

Iggy is tired of his reputation as the Island’s unreliable charmer and a man of many talents but no true calling outside his family’s bakery. Sure, it’s mostly true, but it still hurts his feelings. His carefree life gets serious fast when he meets the beautiful, mysterious Cora Seaworth. Before long, they’re working together with Cora’s sisters, various ghosts and the unfathomable creature lurking at the bottom of the cove to defeat an ancient enemy. If they don’t prevail, it’s not just their love that’s at stake, but Starfall Point’s entire magical community.

Review:

Eeek! We are back!!!! This time with the next sibling of the Seaworth family. 

Cora has spent the majority of her life at Moonshadow Cove with her sisters. She spends most days locked in the library amongst the books. Iggy has many talents, but he has no true calling. His reputation on the Island is unreliable and a charmer. Sure, it is true, but he does have a dream but he lacks the confidence to go for it. His carefree life is about to end when he meets Cora and learns her secret. He gets dragged into the magical world and will try and help save Cora and her family from an ancient enemies knocking on their door. Will they save the Cove? Will Iggy grow up enough to be the man Cora needs? Can Cora even trust in love?

Make sure you at least read book 1 of this series. I would say the other series (this is a spin off) is important too, but the author gives us enough background of the other series so just at least read book 1 of this series. 

Awwwww I love this author and I love these narrators. Eeeee. They are the perfect trio. 

Cora is a woman of my own heart. She is my favorite of the sisters methinks. 

The chemistry between Iggy and Cora are immediate, but Cora pushes him away to protect him BUT also to protect herself. He has a bad reputation on the island as a charmer and being unreliable. He disappears without a word for days. She can't bring him into the fold because she can't fully trust him. 

The lust was quick, but it did a little bit for the love to come into play and I was here for it. It was a nice pace. 

I did like getting to know James better. It's sounding like James and the older sister will be the couple in the next book. We shall see. 

Oooo I'm curious if we'll see some sort of resolution with Iggy's twin sister. That girl is an angel and deserves happiness. *fingers crossed*

The narration was lovely as per normal. I can't imagine this series done by anyone else. 

Issues? Mmmmmmmmmmmm the solutions seemed too easy. Hopefully we get some sort of battle or something in the next one. It felt too comfy if that makes sense. I also wasn't a huge fan of Iggy. If I was Cora I would've been hesitant too. BUUUUT I did warm up to him by the end. 

All-in-all, I really liked this one. I can't wait for the next book!

4 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Cora

Least Favorite Character(s): Our baddies and Iggy at the beginning

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #49

Audiobook Review: Last Dragon Standing by Rachel Aaron

Author: Rachel Aaron
Narrator: Vikas Adam
Title: Last Dragon Standing
Series: Heartstrikers #5  
Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy, UF, YA
Format: Audiobook 
Published: March 1, 2018
Where I Got It: Audible

Summary: 

Dear Reader,

There is no way to write a blurb for this final book without spoiling all of the others. Suffice it to say, mysteries resolve, dragons war, pigeons abound, and Julius must risk himself in ways he never dreamed possible as Bob’s grand plan finally comes to fruition.

But the Great Seer of the Heartstrikers isn’t the only one whose schemes are nearing completion. The Nameless End is coming, and even the machinations of the world’s most brilliant dragon seer might not be enough to stop it. As the world comes crashing down, it’s up Julius to prove what he’s always known: that seers can be wrong, and Nice Dragons don’t always finish last.

Review:

*sniff* We are at the end. I love this series so much. 

Everything comes together at the end. The future is uncertain. It will be up to Julius and his allies, friends, and family to save the world from the Nameless End. 

Everyone is together and fighting side-by-side. All of Julius' niceness has brought these dragons, humans, and more together. It's honestly beautiful. Even with all the characters the author did a great job not making it confusing or overwhelming. The narrator did a wonderful job too using all the different voices. Beautiful blend that made a great story. 

I am so sad to be at the end of the series again, but it was great reading this again. I honestly forgot some of the details so it was nice revisiting and seeing how they did it. 

Awww Justin. I wish we had more of him but there were so many faces running around. I hope we get a short story or something with Justin finding a HEA ;)

Bob!!! 

Julius you nice bean you!!!

Chelsea!! Squeeee. 

Amazing narration as per normal. 

This is a must-read series for sure. 

5 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Justin

Least Favorite Character(s): The Nameless End of course. 

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #48

Book Review: Heart of Obsidian by Nalini Singh

Author: Nalini Singh

Title: Heart of Obsidian

Series: Psy-Changeling #12

Genre: PNR, UF, SciFi

Format: ebook

Pages: 368

Published: June 4, 2013

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

A dangerous, volatile rebel, hands stained blood red.

A woman whose very existence has been erased.

A love story so dark, it may shatter the world itself.

A deadly price that must be paid.

The day of reckoning is here.

Review:

I am making some headway in this series! Yayy!

We follow Kaleb and Sahara. Sahara has been locked up and tortured for years. On the other side, Kaleb has been looking all over the world for her. Can she even be saved? Can he bring back Sahara and untangle her mind? 

This was pretty darn dark at times. Poor Sahara. She went through SO much. Also, poor Kaleb. He has a lot going on. 

Can they save each other? Eeee I had no idea what was going to happen the entire time. I was anxious for them both and honestly...for the whole world of the Psy. Things are changing and breaking. 

I'm so glad I took a mini break from the series. I was struggling, but they rekindled my love of the series. Yayy! Sometimes a break and a good story can fix all the doubt. 

But yes, a LOT happening in this one and lots and lots of spoilers. Trying to stay as vague as possible. 

The ending has me itching for the next book. 

5 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Kaleb

Least Favorite Character(s): The Council

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #28

- TBR #10 (Here Be Monsters)

Re-Listen: A Dragon of a Different Color by Rachel Aaron

Author: Rachel Aaron

Narrator: Vikas Adam

Title: A Dragon of a Different Color

Series: Heartstrikers #4

Genre: UF, Paranormal

Format: Audiobook 

Published: July 28, 2017

Where I Got It: My shelf (Audible)

Summary: 

To save his family from his tyrannical mother, Julius had to step on a lot of tails. That doesn’t win a Nice Dragon many friends, but just when he thinks he’s starting to make progress, a new threat arrives.

Turns out, things can get worse. Heartstriker hasn’t begun to pay for its secrets, and the dragons of China are here to collect. When the Golden Emperor demands his surrender, Julius will have to choose between loyalty to the sister who's always watched over him and preserving the clan he gave everything to protect.

Review:

This series is just SOOOOOOOOOOO good. I am so happy to be re-reading it!!!!

We pick up where we left off. Julius is grieving, but he has to keep going. There is a new threat to his clan and the world. There are more secrets from the past that could ruin everything he dreamed of. 

The first half of this book broke my heart again. Poor Julius. Poor Marci. I KNOW what happens at the end but it still killed me. I get WHY it had to happen, buuuuuut still...my poor heart. 

I think Julius found a nice balance of being "nice" and being a dragon. Love his character growth through these books. 

Chelsea is bae. 

Amelia!!!!

Oh Bob. 

We didn't get to see my boo Justin as much, but he's recovering. 

There is a LOT of talking here. Politics, unraveling secrets, fixing relationships, magic....and etc. It seemed like a lot last time, but I think I actually enjoyed it more this time! Maybe I was overwhelmed last time? There were things said that I didn't remember so I'm glad I got to re-read and catch the little things. Things made more sense this read through. 

And the narrator? Flawless of course. 

The first time I read this I had given it a 4. I'm bumping this up to a 5!!!!

Favorite Character(s): Chelsea and Amelia

Least Favorite Character(s): The Empress (*hiss*)

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #43

Re-Listen: No Good Dragon Goes Unpunished by Rachel Aaron

Author: Rachel Aaron

Narrator: Vikas Adam

Title: No Good Dragon Goes Unpunished

Series: Heartstrikers #3

Genre: UF, Paranormal

Format: Audiobook 

Published: August 5, 2016

Where I Got It: My shelf (Audible)

Summary: 

When Julius overthrew his mother and took control of his clan, he thought he was doing right by everyone. But sharing power isn’t part of any proper dragon’s vocabulary, and with one seat still open on the new ruling Council, all of Heartstriker is ready to do whatever it takes to get their claws on it, including killing the Nice Dragon who got them into this mess in the first place.

To keep his clan together and his skin intact, Julius is going to have to find a way to make his bloodthirsty siblings play fair. But there’s more going on in Heartstriker Mountain than politics. Every family has its secrets, but the skeletons in Bethesda’s closet are dragon sized, and with Algonquin’s war looming over them all, breaking his clan wide open might just be the only hope Julius has of saving it.

Review:

Going through this series again! It feels good going back!

Here we are...Julius overthrew his mother and took control of his clan. However, he is nice and wants to share power. Nice on paper, but hard to share power with power-hungry dragons. To keep his clan together and his body in one piece, Julius is going to have to find a way to convince his family to play fair. He will soon learn that there are secrets upon secrets that might ruin everything he has fought for. Along with this, Algonquin is ready for war. She wants the dragons gone. Will Julius and Marci survive...will their dreams survive? 

Love, love, love this series. Before reading the spin-off I wanted to go through this series again. Why not?

Julius is a gem. So nice. Such a dreamer.

Marci is amazing and powerful.

Justin is my lovebug! Literally a gem and needs a short story or something. 

Ooooooh Bob! Chelsea!!!! AMELIA! Love them all.

 

Algonquin and Bethesda are scary ladies, but I respect them in a weird way. I can see their points...kinda.  

Lots of politics and talking in this one. There is a lot of set up for the next book, but it is never boring. 

I still have the same one issue....Marci and Julius are barely together in this one. :/ I wanted more time with them together. They are the perfect team. Yes, yes, it was done on purpose and they have their own journeys right now. Sighs. 

Great narration as per normal. His voice is literally made for these stories. 

4 stars. READ THIS SERIES RIGHT MEOW!

Favorite Character(s): Julius and Justin

Least Favorite Character(s): Gregory and David

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #42

Book Review: The Dangerous Book for Demon Slayers by Angie Fox

Author: Angie Fox

Title: The Dangerous Book for Demon Slayers

Series: Demon Slayer #2

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, UF

Format: ebook

Pages: 294

Published: April 28, 2009

Where I got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

Demon slaying powers should come with an instruction book ... Seriously. Why does a new hair dryer have a twelve-page how-to manual, but when it comes to ancient demon-fighting hocus-pocus, my biker witch granny gives me just half a dozen switch stars and a rah-rah speech? Oh, and a talking terrier, but that's another story. It's not like my job as a preschool teacher prepared me for this kind of thing.

So I've decided to write my own manual, The Dangerous Book for Demon Slayers, because no one tells me anything. Dimitri my "protector" may be one stud of a shape-shifting griffin, but he always thinks he can handle everything by himself. Only he's no match for the soul-stealing succubi taking over Las Vegas. If I can't figure out how to save him—and Sin City—there'll be hell to pay.

Review:

Yayyy for the TBR challenge making me dig through the archives of books I've meant to read but just forgot. This is a slight stretch to the prompt for this month, but it works ;)

We are back with Lizzy. She wanted a nice quiet life as a preschool teacher, but she has demon slaying powers that she needs to learn how to use. This should've come with an instruction book...maybe she'll just write it herself. While still training and learning, another task pops up. Soul-stealing succubi are taking over Las Vegas. With her friends, she will have to save Sin City and her uncle AND her protector, Dimitri. 

I really should've done a quick read of book 1. It has been SO long since I read it. I don't really remember a lot. The book did fine as a standalone I guess, but (if I remember right) there is a lot from book 1 that is important to know. 

Awwwwww that puppers of hers! I forgot how adorable he was. 

Her granny made me chuckle. 

Lizzy was sweet. 

Love our gang of biker witches. So fresh! So cool!

I wanted more of Dimitri because I barely remember him. 

But yes, this was okay. I'm glad I finally got to read this. However, I really should've done at least a quick scan read of book 1 to refresh my memory of these characters and what happened. 

I think I would've appreciated this more if I remembered more. I was confused a lot. 

3 stars from me. 

Favorite Character(s): Pirate!!!! Lizzy is lovely

Least Favorite Character(s): The uncle

 Challenge(s):

- TBR #9 (Friend squad)

Re-listen...Audiobook Review: One Good Dragon Deserves Another by Rachel Aaron

Author: Rachel Aaron 

Narrator: Vikas Adam

Title: One Good Dragon Deserves Another

(Heartstrikers #2)

Genre: Fantasy, Urban Fiction, Paranormal

Format: Audiobook 

Pages: 487 

Published: August 1st 2015

Where I Got It: My shelf (Audible)

Summary: After barely escaping the machinations of his terrifying mother, two all knowing seers, and countless bloodthirsty siblings, the last thing Julius wants to see is another dragon. Unfortunately for him, the only thing more dangerous than being a useless Heartstriker is being a useful one, and now that he’s got an in with the Three Sisters, Julius has become a key pawn in Bethesda the Heartstriker’s gamble to put her clan on top.

Refusal to play along with his mother’s plans means death, but there’s more going on than even Bethesda knows, and with Estella back in the game with a vengeance, Heartstriker futures disappearing, and Algonquin’s dragon hunter closing in, the stakes are higher than even a seer can calculate. But when his most powerful family members start dropping like flies, it falls to Julius to defend the clan that never respected him and prove that, sometimes, the world’s worst dragon is the best one to have on your side.

Review:

Re-read book 1 for book club and I couldn't resist doing the rest of the series. Love this series so much!

Julius and Marci barely survived after the last book. Estella is back and is desperate to win at any cost. Julius and Marci will have to use every tool to survive and find a future that can work for everyone.

It was so fun going back to the beginning. Loved seeing everything with knowing eyes. Even though I knew what was going to happen I was still on the edge of my seat. Awwww. 

Julius is so sweet. Sometimes too much, but that is what makes him a bad dragon. 

Marci is adorbs. 

Amelia and Bob are still my favorite dragons. 

Again...I still feel for Estella but she went too far. I wanted more for her, but she made her bed. 

The ending is just so good. You need to read the next book to see if Julius' plan works. I know what happens but I'm itching to start it. 

The narrator is fabulous as always!!

Such a good series. Loved this book even more than when I last read it. 5 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Bob and Amelia

Least Favorite Character(s): Bethesda

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #27

Audiobook Review: Nice Dragons Finish Last by Rachel Aaron

Author: Rachel Aaron

Narrator: Vikas Adam

Title: Nice Dragons Finish Last

Series: Heartstrikers #1

Genre: UF, Paranormal, SciFi

Format: Audiobook

Published: July 11, 2014

Where I got It: My shelf (gift)

Summary: 

As the smallest dragon in the Heartstriker clan, Julius survives by a simple code: keep quiet, don’t cause trouble, and stay out of the way of bigger dragons. But this meek behavior doesn't fly in a family of ambitious magical predators, and his mother, Bethesda the Heartstriker, has finally reached the end of her patience.

Now, sealed in human form and banished to the DFZ--a vertical metropolis built on the ruins of Old Detroit--Julius has one month to prove that he can be a ruthless dragon or kiss his true shape goodbye forever. But in a city of modern mages and vengeful spirits where dragons are considered monsters to be exterminated, he’s going to need some serious help to survive this test.

He only hopes humans are more trustworthy than dragons...

Review:

Picked this for book club because I have been itching to give this a re-read. 

Julius is nice and that isn't very dragon-like, so his mother kicks him to the curb to make something of himself before he can come back to the family. He has one month. But he is dropped into the DFZ and this is a city where dragons are illegal and labeled as monsters. He will have to find an ally or two in order to make it before the deadline. 

Awwwww it feels so good going back to the beginning of the series! Love this world and love these people. Julius is so nice. Justin is a hot-head, but I am in lovveeeeee with him. Chelsea is scary. Marci is the best thing for Julius. And Bob....well.....you can't help but love him and his pet. 

There are loads of characters we get to meet but the author does a good job dancing them around the stage. It never feels confusing or overwhelming.

Honestly, it was nice getting through this much quicker. Last time I wasn't able to because of the lockdown. It took my eons and it would be days before I had a chance to really sit down and listen. This time I was able to listen to my normal pace. 

Between that and knowing what happens next...I think I like this even more than my first listen!! This series is for sure a series you can listen to multiple times. Lots of little clues and foreshadows that I didn't catch the first time. 

The narrator? Awful. JK. I love him to bits. He is fabulous. Like I've said before some of his girl voices are a touch silly, BUT he makes sure every girl voice has their own voice so you are never confused. His accents are great and fit. 

All-in-all, this series is a must listen. Sure you can read it, but where is the fun in that? Listening is the way to go. 

Originally I gave this 4 stars, but I am going to bump this up to 5 because why not???

- Favorite Character(s): Justin and Bob

- Least Favorite Character(s): Mama Heartstriker

 Challenge(s):

- Audiobook #24

Book Review: Magical New Beginnings by Brenda Trim

Author: Brenda Trim

Title: Magical New Beginnings

Series: Midlife Witchery #1

Genre: Urban Fiction, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Mystery 

Format: ebook

Pages: 215

Published: November 24, 2020

Where I got It: My shelf (Amazon)

Summary: 

When life goes sideways, embracing the adventure is the fastest way to set things right.

One day I was just a widow facing the prospect of an empty nest, living a life that was anything but enchanted. The next, I had discovered my magical roots, and my rightful place as the Guardian of the portal between the Faery and Earth.

There was shock. And there was fear. After all, no one plans to start over at forty-five. I intended to grow old with my husband. I thought we’d live an ordinary life. So I’ll be damned if I’m going to waste this opportunity to live in a world I always thought was imaginary.

I’m half-witch, half-faery, and facing dangers as real as the ache in my bad knee. Ibuprofen and caffeine keep me going, and I could do this for the rest of my life. Whoever thinks my family home is an easy mark better take notice: the new Guardian in town isn’t going down without a fight.

After all, she’s already learned to let go of her simple existence and believe in the extraordinary power inside of her. What could possibly stop her now?

Review:

I've had my eye on this since it first came out. Forgot about it for a bit and then seen it was free on Amazon recently so I grabbed it!

Here we follow Fiona who is starting a new life after the death of her husband and her grandmother. However, nothing is as it seems. After inheriting the house, she finds that magic is 100% real and she has some huge shoes to fill. She is responsible for guarding this portal between the Faery and Earth. She is new to having these powers so she will have to relay on her new friends to help her. 

I really enjoyed the premise behind this. I especially loved that we have an older set of characters here. The majority of them seem to be 40+ so that is really cool! Rarely do you get a UF or PNR with older characters. Loved it. Plus the whole portal thing was cool!

Fiona was a sweetie. She acted like she was 80 instead of being in her 40s though. It did get annoying....like we get it hon. You can stop. 

I didn't like Bas....the love interest.....maybe in the next book he gets better. I think Fiona could do better if I'm being honest here.

The mystery was interesting enough and it kept me reading on. However, I had issues with the ending. It just ended. You could call it a cliffhanger...sure....but it felt like the author just cut the book in half is selling the other half as book 2. It was just so dang abrupt. 

I also did find myself struggling a bit with reading this. It felt so chunky in places and the pacing was really off. It just didn't flow for me like I would want. 

All-in-all, I did enjoy the premise and the majority of the crew. It was nice and refreshing. I might read book 2 if it is free....someday. I hope book 2 is edited a little bit better and flows better. We shall see. I'll give this 2 stars. 

Favorite Character(s): Fiona

Least Favorite Character(s): Bas

 

 Challenge(s):

- Cloak & Dagger #12