Absolutely LOVE this author! Her Twelve Systems Chronicles series (Sci-Fi) is at the very top of my all-time favorites list, so I was super exc4.5/5.0
Absolutely LOVE this author! Her Twelve Systems Chronicles series (Sci-Fi) is at the very top of my all-time favorites list, so I was super excited to see what she would come up with venturing into the paranormal genre. And, of course, I wasn’t disappointed. Ms. Manetti’s signature intelligent and tightly written stories absolutely shines in this book. Maybe that’s because so, so many paranormal stories focus mainly on the overall plot, and don’t often worry much about all those small ins-and-outs that make truly great writing. This book keeps the overall writing standard high, while telling a can’t-put-down story.
So why round down to 4 stars instead of up? Only because I know future books in this series will continue to improve the experience so I’m leaving it open for even more awesomeness.
Oh, and this review has NOTHING to do with that amazing shout-out at the first. I honestly had no idea and was just as shocked and surprised as anyone. (Hey, if I would have tempered that in, it would have received a 10 our of 5 stars! ;)
Merged review:
4.5/5.0
Absolutely LOVE this author! Her Twelve Systems Chronicles series (Sci-Fi) is at the very top of my all-time favorites list, so I was super excited to see what she would come up with venturing into the paranormal genre. And, of course, I wasn’t disappointed. Ms. Manetti’s signature intelligent and tightly written stories absolutely shines in this book. Maybe that’s because so, so many paranormal stories focus mainly on the overall plot, and don’t often worry much about all those small ins-and-outs that make truly great writing. This book keeps the overall writing standard high, while telling a can’t-put-down story.
So why round down to 4 stars instead of up? Only because I know future books in this series will continue to improve the experience so I’m leaving it open for even more awesomeness.
Oh, and this review has NOTHING to do with that amazing shout-out at the first. I honestly had no idea and was just as shocked and surprised as anyone. (Hey, if I would have tempered that in, it would have received a 10 our of 5 stars! ;)...more
Although the subject matter is not a happy one - a couple about to divorce - the execution of all the reasons, emotions and heart-ache, as well4.5/5.0
Although the subject matter is not a happy one - a couple about to divorce - the execution of all the reasons, emotions and heart-ache, as well as the hard struggle back to love is superbly written!
Merged review:
4.5/5.0
Although the subject matter is not a happy one - a couple about to divorce - the execution of all the reasons, emotions and heart-ache, as well as the hard struggle back to love is superbly written!...more
I’m not usually a big mystery fan because I prefer more time spent on relationships and character growth than the linear nature straight-up mysteries I’m not usually a big mystery fan because I prefer more time spent on relationships and character growth than the linear nature straight-up mysteries afford. HOWEVER, I have read almost every single mystery Ms. Swank has ever written beginning with her very first Rose Gardner book. And that is because she takes time to develop amazing relationships and character growth, all while penning some of the best mystery storylines out there.
In this, the first of a new series, we are introduced to a brand new character while re-visiting a much beloved (to me) character from previous series. James *Skeeter* Malcom is a shady but extremely complex character who is also immensely loyal and honorable (in his own way). He is a straight shooter, brash with little time for finesse or BS. He has also run a world-wide crime syndicate, spent time in prison and is an enigma with layers bone deep. Bottom line, he is probably the reason fans like myself are so excited for this new series and one new fans will quickly become addicted to!
Harper, a new character in the DG Swank universe, is a bit more iffy for me. She is a disgraced police detective whose dismissal is mired in questions (for which the answers will most assuredly come to light little by little as the series continues). She has returned to her hometown only to become a raging but still functioning alcoholic. Even when she is searching for her friend’s daughter, who has been kidnapped, she uses alcohol to get her through and often drinks herself into a stupor at night.
Now, I am sure the author will slowly rehabilitate her and there are all kinds of opportunities for growth (obviously) that will be interesting but you can also see why some (myself included) may have a hard time connecting with her. She has understandably gone through some of the worst that life can throw at her and one can understand her struggle. But, at this point I couldn’t find a lot to like about her aside from trying to help her friend. There wasn’t much of a personality shown aside from the drinking.
The mystery aspect is what makes this first installment shine. It is as good as this author is known for. The villain is always a surprise (although I did amazingly guess this one pretty early… probably because I’m such a fan that I can guess at the weird turns this author’s mind may take!). And the journey is assuredly an un-put-downable ride!
Merged review:
I’m not usually a big mystery fan because I prefer more time spent on relationships and character growth than the linear nature straight-up mysteries afford. HOWEVER, I have read almost every single mystery Ms. Swank has ever written beginning with her very first Rose Gardner book. And that is because she takes time to develop amazing relationships and character growth, all while penning some of the best mystery storylines out there.
In this, the first of a new series, we are introduced to a brand new character while re-visiting a much beloved (to me) character from previous series. James *Skeeter* Malcom is a shady but extremely complex character who is also immensely loyal and honorable (in his own way). He is a straight shooter, brash with little time for finesse or BS. He has also run a world-wide crime syndicate, spent time in prison and is an enigma with layers bone deep. Bottom line, he is probably the reason fans like myself are so excited for this new series and one new fans will quickly become addicted to!
Harper, a new character in the DG Swank universe, is a bit more iffy for me. She is a disgraced police detective whose dismissal is mired in questions (for which the answers will most assuredly come to light little by little as the series continues). She has returned to her hometown only to become a raging but still functioning alcoholic. Even when she is searching for her friend’s daughter, who has been kidnapped, she uses alcohol to get her through and often drinks herself into a stupor at night.
Now, I am sure the author will slowly rehabilitate her and there are all kinds of opportunities for growth (obviously) that will be interesting but you can also see why some (myself included) may have a hard time connecting with her. She has understandably gone through some of the worst that life can throw at her and one can understand her struggle. But, at this point I couldn’t find a lot to like about her aside from trying to help her friend. There wasn’t much of a personality shown aside from the drinking.
The mystery aspect is what makes this first installment shine. It is as good as this author is known for. The villain is always a surprise (although I did amazingly guess this one pretty early… probably because I’m such a fan that I can guess at the weird turns this author’s mind may take!). And the journey is assuredly an un-put-downable ride!...more
Not sure if the reason this installment didn’t hit with me is because it has been so long since the last book published and I’ve just moved on, or if Not sure if the reason this installment didn’t hit with me is because it has been so long since the last book published and I’ve just moved on, or if the characters weren’t up to their previous quality. Either way, this book was just okay for me....more
LOVING this series! And, as anyone who has read its previous books knows, it isn’t a high action, kick-butt heroine type of book. But rather, it is anLOVING this series! And, as anyone who has read its previous books knows, it isn’t a high action, kick-butt heroine type of book. But rather, it is an extremely addictive and warm series about a 40ish woman who, after the death of her grandmother, is thrust into the role of arbitrator/moderator of seven different realms - something she knew nothing about beforehand. It has magic and humor and conflict galore, just on a more human and endearing level.
This specific book did get a bit long and rambley, though. And I was ready to shove the book at the wall with Rollo’s constant “I don’t want to deal with it now, I’ll do it tomorrow” attitude. That expression was literally repeated infinitum through over 80% of the 776 PAGE book. Even with a kinda reason, it made him look weak and wimpy, which (I hope) he is not going to be going forward. Happily it finally resolved at the end and everything is left looking peachy in the Gateway and in Niki’s life… at least for now. :)
And, I’m still reveling in this fun world and watching its characters grow. So, I’ll be (im)patiently waiting for the next installment to publish!...more
This dark academia story is everything it claims, and more… both good and bad. The writing is surprisingly well-done and the plot is unique and grippiThis dark academia story is everything it claims, and more… both good and bad. The writing is surprisingly well-done and the plot is unique and gripping. The story revolves around Lennon, a young woman who, at the lowest point of her life, is invited to attend a secret, unknown, yet elect university. She feels it is her one chance to make something of her otherwise useless life, though, so she readily agrees.
What follows is an ever deepening realization that this school is not at all what the surface facade shows. Rather, it is a deeply disturbing education into how certain talented individuals can learn to persuade and ultimately control the minds and wills of others, even to the point of changing their surroundings. The darkness comes to play as one realizes the repercussions and opportunities that ability can afford. It is a dangerous temptation as much as an incredible gift and not many care which.
The story is riveting with its plethora of nuanced ideas that really make one think and consider their own choices and what they would be. The overall tone throughout the majority of the book, however, is considerably cynical and gloomy in nature. This is especially true of Lennon. She is not a particularly sympathetic heroine. Her entitled, yet defeatist personality can be extremely hard to connect with enough to want her to succeed. She lives her life fatalistically bemoaning her circumstances, yet consistently makes decisions that will cause those very events to affect her. Her choices are to escape by taking drugs, or just going along with the easiest option. This does exemplify the current ennui and entitled disconnect that so many complain about, however, so her personality may ring true to many. The portrayal comes with a very nuanced shading and is extremely well penned. Lennon just won’t be a character some may enjoy rooting for.
The remainder of the characters are more one dimensional, with the slight exception of Dante, Lennon’s advisor. He is quite an enigma and his truth only unravels near the end of the story. But then, it is in such an eye-opening way that it makes him the true hero of the entire book!
It is the story, itself, that keeps the star rating so high. All the questions and expectations are completely blown out of the water one at a time, leading up to a truly jaw-dropping and genius climax! Then, it lets the reader down slowly with a reflective and satisfying ending. SO good!!...more
Absolutely adoring every single minute I spend with these lovely characters and their lives. Wholeheartedly recommend this series to anyone who4.5/5.0
Absolutely adoring every single minute I spend with these lovely characters and their lives. Wholeheartedly recommend this series to anyone who loves a great cozy read that doesn’t stress, but wraps one up in all the feels that create happiness!...more
I just realized, I’m not reading this book and series way into the night because I can’t put it down, but because I don’t want to put it down! 4.5/5.0
I just realized, I’m not reading this book and series way into the night because I can’t put it down, but because I don’t want to put it down! It is just so wonderful and lovely and heart-warming and fun that I completely lose myself in it and never look up until my eyes are aching and drifting down!...more
Oh my goodness, how much fun was this?!? For the first bit, I wasn’t sure I was even going to like the book because Niki (FMC) was such a doormat, I cOh my goodness, how much fun was this?!? For the first bit, I wasn’t sure I was even going to like the book because Niki (FMC) was such a doormat, I could hardly read it. BUT…. Once one gets past the 20% mark or so, she bucks up and decides, “no more!”. Then, we get to watch her grow and learn to stand up for herself, while enjoying one of the most delightful stories of magic and realms and intrigue and friendships and growth that I have fancied in a while! Off to the next book quick!...more
Again the “I can’t be with you..” like in the previous book - only this time it isn’t “I’m dying” it is “you will die”. Same basic rain cloud that hanAgain the “I can’t be with you..” like in the previous book - only this time it isn’t “I’m dying” it is “you will die”. Same basic rain cloud that hangs over every page and makes a reader miserable and, in this case, annoyed. Then, when that gets settled, it’s “but what if..?” or “what if?” or “what if?” “Just in case, we still can’t be together”. WHICH makes Dirge (MMC) the most weak-boned, whiny-baby, male lead character in a long time. Good grief man, grow a pair and go after what you want!!!
Aside from that? I still like the world and the (other) characters, although I’m not sure if I’ll continue. The action is not as strong in this book as compared to the first, but there is enough to keep things interesting - just not near the end. At that point, the story is mainly about Shay and Dirge FINALLY figuring stuff out....more
This story is good, the world is interesting and it kept my attention throughout. There are very, VERY (in fact I can’t think of any) tropes th3.5/5.0
This story is good, the world is interesting and it kept my attention throughout. There are very, VERY (in fact I can’t think of any) tropes that I hate worse than the “I’m sick and dying so I can never have you” that lasted through over half of it, though. GAH!! If I had known that was part of this story, I would have definitely stayed away. Luckily, however, the rest of the book was actually really engaging.
Yes, there are some noticeable holes, like why in the heck didn’t anyone pursue the fact that they saw the nasty witch magic near the very first of the book but absolutely nothing was done about it… at all?! That seems to be the main point of the problem. *sigh* Guess it was more important to get another book out of the question… but still, don’t expose the answer then just forget about it!
Still, most of my annoyances are (as you can see) personal in nature, so I would still recommend this book. And, I plan on continuing, as well. That should say more about the overall story than any of my moaning could!...more
This really should rate a 3.5 stars but I love Rose and her world so much I just couldn’t do it. DGS is the only auto-buy author in the mystery field This really should rate a 3.5 stars but I love Rose and her world so much I just couldn’t do it. DGS is the only auto-buy author in the mystery field for me, and that is solely because of this world, these characters and all the love, warmth and down-home goodness that is sprinkled into all the high-jinx, murder and excitement.
It’s been a few years since we have actually seen Rose, though (there are multiple spin-off series now that are set in this world Rose started). She is now married with two kids of her own, plus the two she is raising of her sisters. One of the best parts of this story is the real, yet lovely way Ms. Swank incorporates the home life, challenges and love of an everyday mother. Absolutely pitch-perfect!
BUT… we have to have some way to draw Rose back into her investigative persona, and that’s where it gets a bit sketchy for me. At first the whole finding a box thing just wasn’t the big deal it was made out to be. Seems like much ado about nothing. (Of course, we know that at some point it has to turn into something, but still). I also had a really hard time with her continually choosing to keep Joe in the dark. Now, the author does a good job of explaining why, but it still didn’t sit well that Rose is putting her marriage so much at risk.
Even with those itches, however, I still absolutely relished each and every page of this slice-of-life, murder mystery! It’s a love that has developed over years and will probabaly endure forever. ;)...more
I used to love contemporary and historical romance, but I don’t read a whole lot of either since sex took over for romance and smothered most of theirI used to love contemporary and historical romance, but I don’t read a whole lot of either since sex took over for romance and smothered most of their books plotlines, depth and characterization. BUT… Ms. Bybee stands out as one of the few who still keeps an absolutely beautiful balance in all the aspects of a story truly well-written. And this one is a great example.
Now, don’t get me wrong. It isn’t anything deep that makes one question the meaning of life. It is a straight-up slice of contemporary life with its bruises, its joys and, of course, its romance. The characters are real and believable, making it easy to relate and respond to them and their circumstances.
I especially loved the way Ms. Bybee dealt with an unwanted pregnancy. She handled it with such aplomb, never judging any choice but allowing readers to see the struggle and the choices made. And, I also love that the characters of Chase and Piper are given time to allow their relationship to grow and deepen before jumping into bed. This makes it real and lovely and wonderful when it does happen.
The only drawback (and it’s a big one for me) is the HUGE cliffhanger at the end. This is the first time I have seen this author incorporate this strategy (admittedly I have missed two or three of her books, however) and I’m not happy about it. Yes, the “romance” part is at a good point when closing the book but every other major storyline within the book is precariously hanging with no answers in sight. *sigh*
Still, I would highly recommend the read if one is looking to relax and thoroughly enjoy a light, yet expertly crafted love story!...more
*Disclaimer* This rating is purely a personal preference issue.
So here’s my problem with “humorous” books… it is VERY hard to keep one laughin2.5/5.0
*Disclaimer* This rating is purely a personal preference issue.
So here’s my problem with “humorous” books… it is VERY hard to keep one laughing and enjoying the schtick while still creating an actual story that has depth and is interesting. Once in a while it works beautifully, sometimes it kinda works, often it just doesn’t. This story - for me - is in the last category. It is all fluff with no feel. Along with the dippy antics, I wanted at least a little meat in this story darn it!! Things can only float along that silly surface for so long until I start clambering for something underneath.
Still, I agree there are times one just wants a completely brainless romp to pass an evening. If so, this one is perfect....more
Why, or why do I keep reading this series? I honestly don’t have an answer. Bunny is still TSTL to the point of hair-pulling and chunky baldness. And Why, or why do I keep reading this series? I honestly don’t have an answer. Bunny is still TSTL to the point of hair-pulling and chunky baldness. And the overall plot to this particular installment was just a re-wash of the gemstone thing from the last book. The twist in the villain could have been awesome but they got off Scot-free so that was even disappointing. YET… we do get some major progression in what she actually is and what is up with her dog and that is interesting and entertaining.
Obviously there are many people who adore this book and the series. It does have Ms. Harris’s signature upbeat and quirky writing style - which I love. So… guess it’s all a matter of personal taste....more
This is a sweet little confection of fun. It’s a totally surface story and the villain is blatantly obvious if one uses even a modicum of thought to qThis is a sweet little confection of fun. It’s a totally surface story and the villain is blatantly obvious if one uses even a modicum of thought to question intent. Still the characters carry the day. I absolutely adored Hope and her optimistic attitude and Ian is a great, yet enigmatic character, as well.
SO… if one is looking for a read that requires very few brain cells, can deal with some eye-rolling, this story really is a great little escape....more
There is no doubt this book is an absolutely beautiful book for anyone who yearns for the deep, abiding, true love that lasts through the ages. It is There is no doubt this book is an absolutely beautiful book for anyone who yearns for the deep, abiding, true love that lasts through the ages. It is the story - or actually stories - of two women, Georgia, and her great-grandmother, Scarlett Stanton. Both having found the men who could give them that love of a lifetime, it follows how each of them handles it, then deals with the consequences. It is deeply emotional, heartbreaking, yet inspiring at the same time.
There were only two things that kept me from giving this the five stars most will think it deserves. And both of those reasons are actually understandable plot devices when reading, so I am completely aware of my double mindedness.
First, the book is actually two totally different stories. Georgia’s story begins and continues for a few chapters. Then, just as the reader is drawn completely in and is lost in her story, the next chapter will unexpectedly switch to Scarlett’s story - which will then continue on its own and apart from Georgia’s. Now I understand the reasons for this constant and abrupt switching and I can’t think of another way to tell this story well, BUT… It drove me crazy to be so involved and attached to what was going on in one of the women’s life only to suddenly be thrown into the other woman’s.
Second, I didn’t like Georgia. She was cold and uncompromising and just plain cruel to Noah (the love instrest/author). Again, I completely understand why she behaves the way she does, but not her extreme actions. She is written as almost perfect but she does not allow for ANY imperfection whatsoever in Noah. Make a mistake and it’s over for her. Again, she has reasons to be that way, but she could have at least allowed him to explain his actions (heck, she even allowed her nasty EX to explain!) before she cuts him off completely. Yet, she jumps to conclusions immediately based on her past. And, I disliked her because of that, so much so that it affected my enjoyment of the rest of the story. *sigh*
Still, it really is a beautiful story overall, so I just can’t bring myself to lower those stars to three (my gut reaction)....more
Whew! After the first two books in this series, I was concerned I may have found books I actually DON’T like from one of my favorite people and authorWhew! After the first two books in this series, I was concerned I may have found books I actually DON’T like from one of my favorite people and authors. BUT, this installment saved the day, WOOHOOH!!!
The things that have niggled at me before are being worked out and SO many threads come together in this story to deepen and increase our love and understanding of both Daisy and her world. We find out who her biological parents really are, we see what it takes and how to overcome her addiction, and her relationship with Hugo takes off for real! *sigh* I just knew Ms. Harper wouldn’t let us down if we just persevered!
Now, I cannot wait to dive in to the next and final book the minute it publishes!...more
FINALLY! I’ve been waiting over a year to see what’s next for one of my favorite UF characters! I love Jacky Leon and every single one of her chosen fFINALLY! I’ve been waiting over a year to see what’s next for one of my favorite UF characters! I love Jacky Leon and every single one of her chosen family! The writing is tight and nuanced with all kinds of underpinnings that serve to make this series completely addicting.
The majority of this installment doesn’t hold quite as much suspense or high powered action as others have, instead it focuses more on the deepening of family relations between Jacky, Niko, Davo, Subira and the rest, as Jacky and brothers set off to hunt in the wilds of Alaska. We learn some very interesting tidbits from both Davo and Subira that help us understand them much more and deepens our sympathy and connection to them.
Never fear, however, the big action does hit in the last 30% of the book or so, it’s hard, fast and everything K.N. does so well! And, of course, the ending is just wonderful. My biggest complaint is that it’s WAY past time for Jacky and Heath to formally mate or tie the knot, though. We are on book TEN, for heaven’s sake! And, the pack is suffering because of that lack.. Still, and always, I’m already anxious for more!...more
Loading...
