Book Thoughts and Other Ramblings

A place for me to talk about books I've read and other random thoughts I have : )

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Book Review - Seduced by a Dragon

Fallen Immortals series #5

The second book of Leonidas’ story is a heartbreaker. We start off with him in his wyvern form, feeling hopeless as he’s fallen in love with Rosalyn and knowing she does not love him back. Rosalyn is distraught at the turn of events, and once she discovers the whole truth about Leonidas, she becomes determined to help save him while also figuring out why it’s so important to her. Leonidas came off as the ultimate cad in Lucian’s part of the series, but in this story he shows such a vulnerability, I could not help but fall in love with him even more. And Rosalyn is slowly but surely winning me over. Of course, nothing is easy when it comes to fulfilling the treaty and holding on to their True Love; that’s right – Zephan is back on the scene. This book has the right amount of action, intrigue, and steamy romance to keep me hooked. Can’t wait to see how Leo and Rosalyn’s story continues!

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Book Review - Justice Ascending

The Scorpius Syndrome series #3

Just when I didn't think the series could get any better, it does. By far, Tace and Sami's story is my favorite. Although all of the alpha men of the series have their issues, Tace's perspective is unique in that we've witnessed his infection of Scorpius and now we're getting the details of how it's changed him. Especially his growing obsession with Sami Steel. We've known she was a badass, but seeing her vulnerability and past helped me to understand her and like her more. And the sparks that fly between these two were even better to read about. I thought for sure Zanetti was going to break my heart as the story neared the end, and it nearly did. I mean - how much more does the Vanguard family have to go through? My eyes were kept glued to the pages, and I am already obsessing about when the next book comes out and when I can get my greedy paws on it. I love this series!

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Book Review - Ride; Episode 12

Puca Mates series

Although Season Three has probably been my favorite of the entire Ride series, I couldn't help but feel a bit let down at the ending. Of course we get the action, romance, and HEA we're eagerly expecting, but things wrapped up so neatly, I couldn't help but wonder - is that it? Somewhat spoilery statement coming up, but what about the OH and Nathan? I mean, just hope for the best? I'm happy to see everything turns up roses at the end, but feel like it ended too quickly. I understand the episode/serial aspects of stuff, but I think sometimes the story suffers from the shortness of it.

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Maelíosa’s his mate, but she’s in trouble. Will Sage save his sexy, sassy mate in this explosive series finale? https://hdtk.co/XCrY2

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Book Review - Chase

Hot Rides #3

This is my favorite book of the series yet. I think as books continue on, the writing, action, and romance just gets better and better. Before this book, we only know that Gabriel is a member of the crew. But learning about him, Nikki, and their shared history was fascinating. They've been through a lot, and the intensity of the job they're on now throws them back together in a most exciting way. The "Hot Rides" series is definitely on my list of series to continue. I couldn't wait to get moments to read more of the story; loved it!

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Book Review - Ren: The Monster’s Adventure

The Ren Series #3.5

One never realizes how much they’ve missed the incomparable Ren Lewis until Sarah Noffke puts out another book in his series. The Monster’s Adventure is an enjoyable novella that brings us up to date on Ren and into the family vacation from hell (well not really, but it’s torturous for him). Through the vacation adventures, Ren is forced to examine his past in order to create a better present and future as he deals with some unfortunate truths. Per the usual, I loved this story. It hit really close to home as I’ve had to deal with some similar experiences revealed in this book, so it was a good reminder about letting go and making the most out of every day. And it’s an even better reminder when the story is told through the voice and mind of the world’s most arrogant dream traveler. Good times!

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Book Review - Campbell’s Redemption

Highland Pride series #3

Sharon Cullen is the reason why I actually read and enjoy historical romance. That’s not to say that I haven’t read/enjoyed books by other authors, but it wasn’t until I found one of Cullen’s books (The Reluctant Duchess), that I actually knew that there’d be HR books that I would love. Ending the Highland Pride series is bittersweet, as I’ve come to love the characters and rooting for them to overcome the problems they faced. With that being said, I think “Campbell’s Redemption” was Cullen saving the best for last. Cait and Iain’s past is filled with pain and heartache, and finding their way to each other was not at all easy. Both Cait and Iain are very complex characters facing a lot of complications in their desire to save Scotland and their people. When they finally let their guards down, face their history, and get to really know and help each other… it was just amazing. This book and series is amazing. I’m saddened by the end of the series, but eagerly awaiting what’s next by this remarkable author.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Book Review - Crooked Kingdom

Sequel to Six of Crows

I dragged my feet so much on finishing this book; I didn’t want my adventure with the crew to end! Per the usual, Bardugo wrote what I would argue is the perfect book. The characters are all so complex, and when we’re reading about each character (or in my case listening), and knowing the current thoughts and their reflections on the past, you get a greater sense for who each person is. How all the scheming, double-crossing, contingency plans, and plain old educated guesses come together is astounding! I wonder what kind of planning Bardugo had to undertake to make sure that everything weaved together perfectly. There were definitely highs and lows in this story. But overall, I feel very satisfied with the ending. I’m sure all readers like myself want to see more of these characters, and perhaps we will in Bardugo’s future books. And I definitely look forward to what the future holds. I also must recommend listening to the series on audiobook! I had read the first book, and snatched it up on Audible when I saw it on sale. I knew I couldn’t read the second book, yet (I will probably do so in the future). The voice actors for this series is perfect! I can’t encourage everyone enough to listen to the series; do it now! : )

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Book Review - Legend of Love

The Muse Chronicles #2

If you could hear the sigh of contentment I had when I finished this book, you would want to dive right in and read this awesome story for yourself. Book 2 in the “The Muse Chronicles” series does not disappoint or hit a sophomore slump. My eyes were kept to the pages as we discover more about the Muse of Epic Poetry, Callie, and her hunky guardian in the form of Navy SEAL, Hunter. While we’re treated to the unfolding of their intense relationship, more suspense and conspiracy unfolds as we learn more about those “Kronos Krazies” hell bent on destroying our muses and unleashing who knows what onto society. I think my favorite part of this series so far is how the author writes complex characters who you can empathize with and root for; totally swooning for the men in this series. The women aren’t bad themselves, as Callie definitely holds her own against Hunter as we see their bond come together. Kessler leaves us with a bit of a tease as to the next Muse/Guardian combo, and I for one cannot wait!

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A supernatural investigative blogger puts the púca stallions in the limelight, now a new danger threatens the clan. https://hdtk.co/v4ojD

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Book Review - Dragon’s Maiden

Dragon’s Maiden is a novella that plays with history and goes on to tell the story of the last dragon and the maiden that saved him. Reading the story synopsis pretty much explains it all, and knowing that it’s paranormal romance – one can easily predict how the story will end. The details in between were just okay to me. Although I enjoy action and romance as much as the next person, I wasn’t hanging on every word. Dragon’s Maiden is an enjoyable enough read for a long afternoon.

This is my honest review of this advance reader copy and I have not been compensated in any way.

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Book Review - Paradox

Red Rock Alien Mail Order Brides 3 (Intergalactic Dating Agency) 

Please tell me this is not the last book of this series, because it was just too good! As one of three Pact soldiers on earth, Hacker is focused on his mission to align the Verum with the Pact. He did not anticipate meeting his mate in the form of the Verum soldier, Ellen. Ellen already knows who Hacker is and what their relationship is supposed to be. But as a Time Jumper, Ellen would like a little more say so in her future than what the pull of the vortexes are making her feel. Hacker and Ellen may not get the chance to explore their attraction, as information from the future shows there may not be an Earth left in a matter of days.

I was totally engrossed with this story. I’ve already come to care so much about the characters and the story, I knew I needed to devour this book and quick. There’s the action, suspense, and romance that I love, and I know I won’t be disappointed in the plot details. Kellison ends the story in such a way that one can feel closure, but also in a way that opens the door for more. And I, for one, am hoping it’s the latter.

*A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.

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Can an Ex Seal find love and a mate at the THE STABLES, an exclusive mating service for the púca shape shifters? http://thndr.me/ARDbK1

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Book Review - Ride Episode 9; The Stables

Ride (Episode 9) – The Stables, picks up a year after Felicity and Cyn’s former friend, Nathan, exposes the puca to the outside world. Since this has happened, the puca has created a business venture, where they basically play matchmakers between them and humans. Maeliosa agreed to help run “The Stables” in exchange for not having to mate with someone from the clan. While working, she meets Sage and his daughter. Sage needs to find a mate and soon, and Maeliosa wants to help him despite their business’ rules. Meanwhile, an organization is rising up against the pucas, and it seems they have Nathan in their sights as someone who can help.

I really like the direction this series is taking. It’s about time we see Maeliosa show a side of herself that’s not a downright b**** (lol). Sage and his background story had me hooked, and I am eager to see how things work out. Now Nathan… ugh, such a d-bag! We see how his life turns out after he exposed the puca, and I hope he somehow redeems himself (but not likely). Regardless, the intrigue of the “Only Humans” organization should bring even more excitement to the series. One thing that has kind of turned me off is the abundance of English words and phrases… that’s not to see there wasn’t any in the previous stories, but it seemed like it was laid on super thick in this story. That’s just my perception.

Regardless, I really enjoyed this story and series, and am happily looking forward to what’s next.

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Book Review - Resist

Blood Courtesans series

Reading “Resist” reminded me why I’m such a huge fan of the Blood Courtesans series. Lund puts her own twist into the world of vampires and the women who are willing to give their blood and bodies to them. “Resist” wasn’t traditional in terms of the heroine; she was not a courtesan but is searching for her sister who is. Anya meets a vampire, Cam, who agrees to help her, and the sparks fly instantly. “Resist” offers the action, suspense, and steaminess that I’ve come to expect from the series, so I was not disappointed. There were a few plot points that seemed to tie up a bit too conveniently, but overall, I wasn’t bothered. I think I’ve got some Tami Lund books in my e-library, and I know I’ll have to check them out soon!

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Book Review - Chosen by a Dragon

Fallen Immortals #4

Oh, this book was heartbreaking. If you’re reading this book, then you’ve probably already read the first 3 books, so hopefully I’m not mentioning anything spoilery. We already know that Leonidas is a player, cursed to never fall in love or else turn wyvern. So, when the brothers’ plan to find him a mate throws Rosalyn into his life… well, we knew “it” was going to hit the fan. I’ll admit I was not a fan of Rosalyn throughout this book, and the jury’s still out on my opinion about her. But my experience in reading Alisa Woods’ books is that she has a way of turning a character around into someone you can really root for. I found that true for Lucian (in books 1-3), and definitely for Leonidas. I only hope Rosalyn can look beyond herself in the next book of the series so that she and Leonidas (and all of humanity for that matter) can get another chance at happiness. As per the usual books in this series, this one definitely has good paced action, intrigue and romance to keep the story moving. It’s definitely easy for me to get caught up in finding out what will happen next as I read. Looking forward to book 5!

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Book Review - Alpha Dragon

Alpha Bites #3

I've read plenty of Mandy Rosko's stories, but the "Alpha Bites” series is probably my favorite of hers. I love the alpha males and their equally awesome mates. I really enjoy shifter stories, and the action and romance of this series gets me every time. In Alpha Dragon, we finally get to learn more about the relationship between dragon-shifter, Jax, and the object of his affection, wolf-shifter, Katie. Their relationship had been on ice for a long time, and seeing them work through their issues was something I had personally been waiting for. Also in the meantime, we get more information about Anna and her kidnapper, Dennis – as well as the curveball alluded to at the end of book 2. I can’t wait to see what the next book in the series has in store!