Enthralled: Paranormal Diversions

Darkest Powers #includes 3.1 - Facing Facts

by Melissa Marr (Editor), Kelley Armstrong (editor), Rachel Vincent

A journey may take hundreds of miles, or it may cover the distance between duty and desire. 14 original teen paranormal short stories YA talent, united with the common theme of road trips.
Contents:
Introduction by Melissa Marr & Kelley Armstrong
1 Giovanni’s Farewell by Claudia Gray
2 Scenic Route (The Forest of Hands and Teeth #0.5) by Carrie Ryan
3 Red Run by Kami Garcia
4 Things About Love (Genies #1.5) by Jackson Pearce
5 Niederwald (Soul Screamers #4.5) by Rachel Vincent
6 Merely Mortal (Wicked Lovely #5.5) by Melissa Marr
7 Facing Facts (Darkest Powers #3.1) by Kelley Armstrong
8 Let’s Get this Undead Show on the Road by Sarah Rees Brennan
9 Bridge (Shade #2.5) by Jeri Smith-Ready
Skin Contact (The Body Finder #2.5) by Kimberly Derting
10 Leaving by Ally Condie
11 At The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday
12 IV League by Margaret Stohl
13 Gargouille by Mary E. Pearson
14 The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
15 Automatic (The Morganville Vampires: Extras) by Rachel Caine

Genres: Young Adult, Paranormal, Fantasy, Anthologies, Short Stories, Urban Fantasy, Vampires

443 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2011

About the author

Melissa Marr writes fiction for adults, teens, and children. Her books have been translated into 28 languages and been bestsellers in the US (NY Times, LA Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal) as well as overseas. Wicked Lovely, her debut novel, was an instant New York Times bestseller and evolved into an internationally bestselling multi-book series with a myriad of accolades.

In 2024 she released a queer fantasy (Remedial Magic via Bramble), a picturebook about a wee one and his two moms (Family is Family via Penguin), and a DC Comics graphic novel about teen Harley & Ivy (The Strange Adventures of Harleen & Harley).

An Illumicrate edition of 6 Wicked Lovely books will release in 2025.

If she's not writing, you can find her in a kayak or on a trail with her wife.

Reviews

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Maybe this wasn't a good choice for me to read because seven of the sixteen stories were from the author's series, most of which I haven't read.

Let me give you the break-down.

Giovanni's Farewell by Claudia Gray
Original short, as far as I could tell. It was cute and could be turned into a successful full length book (or series) should Claudia decide to pursue it.

Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan
Based in the same dystopian world as The Forest of Hands and Teeth series. It was gritty and sad and a little gory. Since I haven't read her series (although I want to and I own the first two books), I don't know if the characters appear in the series or not.

Red Run by Kami Garcia
Original short. It was alright. Kind of dragged a little.

Things About Love by Jackson Pearce
Part of her As You Wish world. I loved it because I've read As You Wish and thought it was super cute. You'll be able to enjoy it if you haven't read As You Wish, but it holds more meaning if you have.

Nierderwald by Rachel Vincent
Part of her My Soul to Take (Soul Screamers) series. I felt like I was missing something the entire time since I haven't read that series, nor do I want to.

A Mortal Winter King by Melissa Marr
Part of her Wicked Lovely series, which I stopped reading after book 3. I didn't care about Keenan then, so I didn't enjoy this story and ended up skipping it after a couple pages.

Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong
Part of her The Summoning (Darkest Powers) series, which I want to read and own the first book, so I skipped it after reading the first page. It's spoilery if you haven't read the series.

Let's Get the Undead Show on the Road by Sarah Rees Brennan
An original story, as far as I could tell. It was alright. Kind of dragged a little because emo vampires aren't really my thing.

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready
Part of her Shade series, which I haven't read, nor do I plan to. It was written in prose form, so I was already wary of it before I started reading.

Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting
Part of her The Body Finder series, which I haven't read, but I want to. Centered on a character that is introduced in Desires of the Dead. It was sad. Like, I almost teared up sad.

Leaving by Ally Condie
Original story set in a dystopian world. It was a bit strange, but interesting. Ally could turn it into a full length book (or series), if she so choose.

At the Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday
Original story, as far as I could tell. If you don't recognize the title from The Rocky Horror Picture Show or watch Supernatural, then you probably won't like this story. I love Supernatural, so I liked it. Plus, it's set in Texas.

I.V. League by Margaret Stohl
Original story. It was strange. I didn't like it very much.

Gargouille by Mary E Pearson
Original story. I loved this. It was adorable and I wanted more. Mary could easily turn this into a full length book. I'd read it.

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Original story. It was alright. Another one set in Texas, which possibly lead to me liking it more than I would have if it'd been set anywhere else. I liked it having a bit of a conclusion.

Automatic by Rachel Caine
Part of her Glass Houses (Morganville Vampires) series, which I haven't read, nor do I want, so I skipped it. If you've read and like that series, you'll probably like this since it's from Michael Glass' POV.

Final tally:
Loved - 2
Liked - 5
Eh - 3
Didn't Like - 1
Skipped - 4

[Gracie O · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just received my ARC. Can't wait to be enthralled by this book ;) And indeed, I was ^_^

Giovanni’s Farewell by Claudia Gray
It was a sweet, innocent story that melted my heart and kept me wishing for a longer story.

Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan & Red Run by Kami Garcia
These short stories were full of thrilling action-packed scenes and unexpected turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.

Things About Love by Jackson Pearce
Just like the title said, this story was on the things about love that a jinn, like Juliet, wants to understand and learn about. Lawrence, Violet’s gay friend (from the novel As You Wish), wishes for nothing more but to experience his very own fairy-tale romance. However, being involved w/ Juliet, and other jinn for that matter, seems to hinder him from achieving that goal…or not ;) This story was a nice quick read and I’m glad that Pearce used the alternating POVs once again to let us see the different voices of these loveable characters.

Niederwald by Rachel Vincent
After reading the Soul Screamers series, I found myself entirely captivated by Vincent’s mind-blowing writing. And since I fell in love with it, I didn’t expect any less with this short story. This story kinda follows up where My Soul to Steal left off. Told from Sabine’s POV (a character I utterly despise), we see her in a roadtrip with Emma into Niederwald. Here, she seeks a reading with an oracle to ask about her future with Nash. Though we all know that she’s clearly crazy obsessed with him, Sabine still thinks that she has a chance to get him back. Now, that little ‘happy’ news came when the oracle drew a picture of Kaylee wrapped in someone’s arms. Not Nash’s. Though this part intrigued me (and bugged the hell outta me) since it didn’t really verify who the hell it was (Tod or Alec?), this short story was still as action-packed as the whole series was & I loved it! Not Sabine though, I still hate her.

Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr
Having read the Wicked Lovely series-and becoming a huge fan of it- this was a nice quick read that follows up Kennan & Donia’s story(before Keenan became a fey again) from Darkest Mercy. Since I wasn’t really a big fan of Keenan, this short story somehow made me like him (just a little). It also helped me understand the reasons that led him to such decisions earlier in the books. And since I’ve liked Donia from the beginning, I was glad to find out that she’s finally happy and for once, have Keenan’s heart all to herself.

Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong
This one’s probably my least favorite story out of all. The characters felt a little lifeless and I didn’t really feel any connection to them, or the story whatsoever. It would’ve been a good story if it was longer…maybe. So to be frank, it was a tad boring and perhaps the worst story in this anthology.

Let’s Get this Undead Show on the Road by Sarah Rees Brennan
This story made me giggle like a little kid getting high on gummy worms :D It was funny and the characters were so lively they almost felt real.

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready
Logan, who died and is now a ghost, is haunting his older brother Mickey, who blames himself for Logan’s death. This short story takes us back in the world of Shade and we learn more of what happened between these two brothers and on how they came about on making-up & resolving their feelings with each other. This story was written using Logan’s POV and we were able to see how his mind functions around the events of his tragedy and how he tries to cope with it. I liked this story since we were able to see a glimpse of a different/devastated Mickey that we weren’t able to see in the series. Overall, this was a nice sweet story about the bond that these two brothers have that even death couldn’t breach.

Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting
In this story, we learn more about Rafe & his ‘ability’ than the snippets we get from Desires of the Dead, and on how he became to be so guarded about his feelings. This was a tragic story that made my heart break since I’ve come to like Rafe in Desires of the Dead. Though it was sad, yet, we do find out more about Rafe’s past life. However, after the tragedy stroke, he was left with nothing but the feeling of hollowness…and a broken heart. This story was perhaps, one of the most heartbreaking stories I’ve ever read, & it proved just how amazing of a writer Kim Derting is.

Leaving by Ally Condie
Another dystopian story coming through. To be honest, I’m not really big with dystopian stories. So, all I could say is that this story wasn’t really my taste, but it was ok, I guess…

At the Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday
For me, this story felt neutral. It was good, w/ some thrilling scenes, but the plot felt a little dull & perhaps, just too damn simple.

IV League by Margaret Stohl
Again, this was an ok story. If it was longer though, it could have potential. The only part I liked was the end.

*Gargouille by Mary E. Pearson
One word: Etienne ;)
This story made my heart race & ache at the same time. Though it was bittersweet, the story was just made of pure romance from beginning to end. And being such a sucker for a love story like the girl I am, this was my favorite story out of all.

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
This one was full of mysteries and it was very exciting to read. The idea was good & it had a great story that made me crave for more.

Automatic by Rachel Caine
It was an entertaining read that mainly focused on a vampire’s control over their bloodlust. And like the other vampire books I’ve read, it felt all too similar with that whole concept. However, his connection with his human girlfriend, Eve, was affectionate enough to make me like this story. Just a bit.

Overall, this has been the best anthology I've ever read! ^_^

[Elle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since Kelley Armstrong announced this anthology I've wanted to get my hands on it and now that I've finally read it I can say that it more than met my expectations. I'm usually wary of buying anthologies, because they always seem to be a mixed bag - some stories leave you wanting so much more while others leave you wondering why you bothered to read them in the first place. But with such a fantastic line-up of authors, Enthralled was perfection from start to finish. Here's my (non-spoilery!) take on each story:

Giovanni's Farewell by Claudia Grey - A sweet story featuring a handsome, mild-mannered ghost and two twins trying to come to terms with their newfound supernatural gifts. I haven't read any of Grey's work before now, but this story definitely piqued my interest! 4 stars.

Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan - Beautifully dark story of family and loyalty set in the world of Carrie Ryan's The Forest of Hands and Teeth series. As a huge fan of Ryan's zombie apocalypse novels Scenic Route was definitely one of my favourites of the entire anthology. 5 stars.

Red Run by Kami Garcia - A richly atmospheric ghost story in which not everything is as it seems. A lovely addition from one of my favourite YA authors. 4 stars.

Things About Love by Jackson Pearce - Another favourite, although I haven't read As You Wish (the story from which this one originates). Pearce tells the tale of a naive young djinn trying to understand the human condition of love. Very interested in reading more from this author! 5 stars.

Niederwald by Rachel Vincent - A quick detour to Niederwald, a town of Harpies, quickly turns sour for Sabine and Emma of Vincent's Soul Screamers series. Might have to bump this one up a few notches on my to-buy list. 3 stars.

Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr - Perhaps the only story I was underwhelmed by. I've heard great things about Marr's Wicked Lovely series but I wasn't impressed by this snapshot. 2 stars.

Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong - Okay, I admit it. I brought this anthology for Facing Facts alone and I skipped straight to this one as soon as it arrived. And even if the rest of the anthology had been terrible it would've been completely worth it! As a huge fan of Armstrong's Darkest Powers series, this story was everything I could've asked for. Tori's featured heavily in this one. We see Chloe dealing with her guilt over the deaths of Dianne Enright and Dr. Davidoff at the end of The Reckoning. And Chloe and Derek are as adorable as ever. 5 stars!

Let's Get this Undead Show on the Road by Sarah Rees Brennan - A vampire-fronted boy band goes on tour. Yes, it's as hilarious as that summary suggests. 4 stars.

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready - A companion story to Smith-Ready's Shade, told in free verse. I have to admit, I'm not sure the style worked, but the story itself was touching. 3 stars.

Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting - It's hard for me to judge this one, as I haven't read the original story Desires of the Dead. But I'm interested in learning more about these characters. 3 stars.

Leaving by Ally Condie - A very powerful sci-fi/dystopian piece. This story reminded me why I loved Ally Condie's Matched and why I'm looking forward to reading more from her. 4 stars.

At The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday - Can't you just tell from the title that this is a good one? Featuring flesh-eating Girl Scouts and vampires in drag, complete with Rocky Horror references. I wasn't expecting to love this one, as I'm not a fan of Verday's but I was pleasantly surprised. 4 stars.

IV League by Margaret Stohl - A couple of poorly educated vampire teens attempt to trick their way into Harvard. 3 stars.

Gargouille by Mary E. Pearson - A beautifully written story of love and self-sacrifice. Pearson's mythological world is gorgeously atmospheric and I'm looking forward to reading more from her! 5 stars.

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes - This is one of those short stories that I really wish could be made into a full-length story. With multiple sequels. Two sisters take a road trip to San Antonio. They don't know what waits for them at their destination but they know it's vital they make there alive. 5 stars.

Automatic by Rachel Caine - A soda machine full of canned blood is set up to meet the ever-growing demand for the vampires of Morganville. Chaos ensues. 3 stars.

[Jasmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

omg almost all of my favourite authors are involved in this one. I honestly CANT WAIT ... I would have bought it just for kelleys story but no

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just know that Tori has lost more than any of us. First, her mother. Now her father. And although she tries to hide it, a big chunk of her self-confidence is gone, too. She's gone from being the popular girl to the one nobody wants around.

It's sad to find out about the loses Tori has to have in her life.
Her mother did show up again and Chloe had to have the courage to confront her after the murder. It was good for Chloe and I'm proud of her for stepping out of her she'll and giving that old hag what she deserved.

5/5 stars.

[Rachel L]

So, I can't really give this a rating since I only read 2 of the stories inside. I read the one by Kimberly Derting which was about her character Rafe and was disappointed; I was really hoping for a Rafe/Violet story going in. I also read the Kelley Armstrong short story which was kind of cool, but kind of whatever. I won't be reading books like this in the future. Not to say it was bad, it just really isn't for my tastes and liking.

[Ethereal Amorist · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25⭐

16 young adult, paranormal fantasy short stories from 16 different authors, compiled in one book - Enthralled.

Trigger Warning~ blood, violence, deaths, torture, abuse, and cliff-hangers. (This is considering all the short stories. This doesn't mean that each short story has these triggers.)

Now I realize why I don't read a lot of short stories. I don't like the fact that it gives only a part of the story of a set of characters, and they usually end in a cliffhanger. I like stories which go in depth and explain why the author plotted it a certain way by the end of it. Novels give me such satisfaction.

Another reason I did not enjoy this book a lot is because some of them could not make me comprehend the world settings or the plot within the format of a short story, and others were a continuation of an already existing series which I have not read. That made me feel frustrated when I could not understand what was going on in the story.

The only ones I loved were~

LET'S GET THIS UNDEAD SHOW ON THE ROAD by Sarah Rees Brennan
It is about a boy band 4 the One, in which Christia is a vampire and his 3 other bandmates are humans. It shows their journey of trusting each other and overcoming challenges together when they are kidnapped unexpectedly from their tour bus. I loved the narration and the way the characters were represented. If this is based on a series written by the author, I'd love to read it soon.

BRIDGE by Jeri Smith-Ready
This was a very unique story of all. It was in the format of a poem, but nothing actually rhymed. But the story was narrated so well! In a world where the new generation of kids could see ghosts lingering in the world, Logan is a ghost too. Since his siblings and cousin aren't the ones with the power to see ghosts, he sets out to find one who can and ask them to help communicate with his grieving brothers and sister so they can finally move on and he can find peace too. This was a very emotional and touching story, and I enjoyed it a lot.

SKIN CONTACT by Kimberly Derting
Rafe has a unique power to see visions in his dreams. Though he doesn't want to believe they are visions, he goes to the location of his recent vision to try and stop the horrifying images he saw. But what if he was too late? This was such a heartbreaking story. But it was well written and I'm pretty sure it is part of a series, so I'll check it out soon.

AT THE LATE NIGHT, DOUBLE FEATURE, PICTURE SHOW by Jessica Verday
Jane comes from a family of monster hunters, where her role is to be bait for the monsters. Tired of having a lesser role, she sets out to capture a monster on her own and prove to her family she's worth more. But things don't go as she planned. This was a fun story with brave and hilarious characters. I enjoyed the descriptions of the monsters and the situations Jane faced and would love to read more of her character if the author has written books on her.

Overall, it wasn't exactly a good read, but it had its moments. I would have appreciated it more if at the beginning of each story there was a short author introduction and a mention if the story was part of a series were given.

[Eva · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story #1: Claudia Grey - Giovanni's Farewell.
What a crap short story. Insta-sorta-love within an hour and way to fast acceptance of freaky powers. ⭐

Story #2: Carrie Ryan - Scenic Route.
Thrilling! The Walking Dead with a little bit of love. Gripped me immediately. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Story #3: Kami Garcia - Red Run.
Very very short, therefore impressive that Kami wrote a pretty cool plot twist in such a few pages. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Story #4: Jackson Pearce - Things About Love
Not bad, not good. Sweet story. I think I will be reading As You Wish. ⭐⭐⭐

Story #5: Rachel Vincent - Niederwald
Interesting! I will definitely read My Soul to Take. I love (bad) angels! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Story #6: Melissa Marr - Merely Mortal
Not for me. Made me want to barf a little bit. And the story was just not interesting. Will not be reading Wicked Lovely. ⭐⭐

Story #7: Kelley Armstrong - Facing Facts
At first it felt all over the place. Didn't understand what the heck this story was about. But with a little more info it got a bit interesting. Sounds like a decent story and after looking at the ratings my GR-friends and others gave I am willing to give The Summoning a go in the future. ⭐⭐⭐

Story #8: Sarah Rees Brennan - Let's Get This Undead Show On The Road
This one was fun to read! I liked the tiny buts of humour and the characters seemed interesting. A shame that, so it seems, there is not a book/series that could show me more of this world and these characters. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Story #9 Jeri Smith-Ready - Bridge
Wow. I really loved this one. Heartbreaking and very sweet. And I am happy to see that there is a series I can read! Did have to get used to the fact that it was written in prose form.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Story #10: Kimberley Derting - Skin Contact
Sort of intriguing, because the dreams are something I haven't read about in other books. But not special either. ⭐⭐

Story #11: Ally Condie - Leaving
Interesting story! The world they live in is not so new for me, but it still got me curious. Didn't find a series about this one. Maybe in the future? ⭐⭐⭐

Story #12:Jessica Verday - At The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show
Girlscouts on a murderous hunting spree, vampires that are dressed like characters from The Rocky Horror Picture Show and a guy who wears bodyparts of people he killed. This story is all over the place. Really don't get it.... ⭐

Story #13:Margaret Stohl - Ivy League
Uhmm. I think this was about a bunch of vampires trying to mingle in with Breathers (the humans) and one vampire wants to get into Harvard? I don't know....weird! ⭐

Story #14: Mary E. Pearson - Gargouille
Yes! After the last 2 stories, this one is so satisfying! Gargouilles, wings that are being cut-off and memories getting lost. And that ending. So sad to find out that this is not a part of a series, or I'm not searching right. I would have read it! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Story #15: Jennifer Lynn Barnes - The Third Kind
Somewhat intriguing. Surprised to find that there isn't a series, because the story read like it was more of an introduction to a book/series. Can't find it. So, without a series, the story going nowhere and just kinda weird. ⭐⭐

Story #16: Rachel Cain - Automatic
Hmmmz, interesting. I'm not always into vampires, but this story was fun to read. And again, no series.... such a shame! ⭐⭐⭐

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I only read two of the stories out of this book so I'll just give a quickie little review of them.

Neiderwald by Rachel Vincent

I really wanted to learn a little more about Sabine and that is what I got from this story. Sabine and Emma are heading home from an extra credit school assignment when Sabine wants to stop in Neiderwald. A town full of evil harpies. Sabine wants to visit a seer again so she can find out if she and Nash will ever get together. It turns out this seer is how she found Nash in the first place. The seer then shows Sabine a picture of Kaylee being held in a more than a friend kind of way by a boy with curly hair. Really neat to learn how Sabine knew about them all along.

"You broke the rules."
I shrugged. "I'm pretty sure they're going to carve that on my headstone."

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready

This short story takes place during Shift. It is when Logan finally gets a chance to work things out with his brother. He finds a girl that neither of them know so she can talk to his brother for him. Logan is always so sweet and breaks my heart. His thoughts on Aura, their childhood, his brother, everything is so real and sad. A great addition to the Shade series. The format of his story was really unique too.

"Everyone knows
Elvis died in the bathroom.
Thanks to the internet,
everyone knows
that I did too.
But at least I was wearing pants."

[i. · Rating 3 out of 5]

What makes this book interesting is that you can find all sorts of stories about vampires,zombies, faeries and any paranormal thing you can think of. They all have some kind of journey in common.I liked some of them more than others and my favourite one was Leaving by Ally Condie, I wish she had written a whole book instead of just a short story.

In Leaving people live in what they call "shapes" in space,life on Earth is not possible anymore . They think of the past as a Beautiful Time when Beautiful People lived.For Sora the time she is living in is not so beautiful, her mum is dead and her father is gone. She wants to leave as well unless something makes her stay,something powerful, maybe love.

I recommend this book to YA readers who are a bit tired of trilogies and want to read something short .
www.theleisurediaries.blogspot.com

[The Reading Raccoon · Rating 4 out of 5]

5 star stories:
Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan
Niederwald by Rachel Vincent
IV League by Margaret Stohl
Gargouille by Mary E Pearson
The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

4 star stories:
Red Run by Kami Garcia
Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready
Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting
Leaving by Ally Condie
Automatic by Rachel Caine

3 star stories:
Giovanni’s Farewell
Things about Love by Jackson Pearce
At the Late Night, Double Festure, Picture Show

2 star stories:
Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr
Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong
Let’s Get this Undead Show on the Road

[Asia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've only read "Niederwald" so the rating might change when I read the rest of the stories.

[Lauren (Northern Plunder) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was first posted on Northern Plunder,part one here and part two here, if you want to see more reviews please click here.


Well obviously I'd have to tackle this book a little differently due to the fact its an anthology but because of my reading slump I've also decided to review half of it now and half of it later because I seem to be getting nowhere with no book even though I'm enjoying them! How does that work? I have no idea. As each story is only a short one I will try my very best to not give too much away but this will also mean the reviews will be short too - now this makes sense!

Introduction: by Melissa Marr & Kelley Armstrong
I actually really enjoyed this introduction it was handy mostly because whilst I've heard of a few of the authors, I have only read books by Melissa Marr in the past so it was nice to get a background story behind why these authors teamed up for this perfect bundle of paranormal journeys.

Giovanni’s Farewell: by Claudia Gray
Claudia Gray, author of the Evernight series which is on my wishlist, opens the book with a ghostly experience of twins Cairo and Ravenna who are different in the paranormal kind of way! Oh did I mention its set in Rome. I was thrilled this was the first story because I went to Rome last year and could relate to a lot of things being mentioned, particularly the heat that seems to be non stop. For me it was the perfect story to open the book with.

Scenic Route: by Carrie Ryan
Carrie Ryan, author of The Forest of Hands and Teeth (also on my wishlist), provides one of my favourite short stories in this anthology. Its about Zombies but never actually says that word nor refers to them too directly, its one that definitely leaves you guessing whilst giving us insight on the lives of two sisters and how they're trying to survive in the horrible world they've been left in.

Red Run: by Kami Garcia
Kami Garcia is the author of the Caster Chronicles (yep, you guessed it! Wishlist!) and we're given another ghost story, but this one is more of a horror ghost story dealing with the murder of a young boy turned human slaughtering ghost maniac! It has a twist of course.

Things About Love: by Jackson Pearce
You have the Fairytale Retellings on your wishlist too right? Well this isn't about Fairytales but it is about Jinn or Genies or Djinn, however you know them best. I haven't been introduced to these creatures before in a book so I was happy to know all about them over these short pages, I think I also favourite this story because we have a main character who isn't hetero - hooray for breaking the mould.

Niederwald: by Rachel Vincent
For those of you who have read the Soul Screams series you need to check this out because this little treat is 4.5 of the series, if you haven't read it, no need to worry because whilst a few things may start off as confusing you're all cleared up way before the end. I adored this world I visited and will be starting the series soon I hope.

Merely Mortal: by Melissa Marr
Ah. Spoilers. That's all I had screaming through my head the entire tale. I've read the first of the Wicked Lovely series and that was a few years ago, I've been meaning to re-start it this year as I have the first three books but I'm going to have to wait until these characters names are lost in my memory. I still enjoyed it though, and all the description was lovely!

Facing Facts: by Kelley Armstrong
Whilst I have a LOT of Kelley's books on my wishlist I haven't gotten any of them and I struggled a little with this story - due to being way over tired and getting confused with all the characters - but I still enjoyed it a lot, I do think having background knowledge of this series would of helped a lot though.

Let's Get this Undead Show on the Road by Sarah Rees Brennan
What happens when you leave a vampire and three humans in a locked room with only food supplied for the humans? Well this story actually, and boy I loved it.

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready
This short story took a new approach to the ghost story, not only was it written in verse it was also from the ghosts point of view, said ghost was a teenager following the lives of his brother and loved ones from the other side and with the help of a female stranger was able to stop another disaster from happening.

Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting
I think this was easily the most tense and heartbreaking story of them all as it follows a young boy who has dreams of the future, and not good ones either. These are dreams that only provide terror and worry to any who care a lot about their loved ones.

Leaving by Ally Condie
This is the oddest concept I've read for a while, in short everyone lives inside of large globes because the outside is unsafe and one girl plans to leave to a past time, our time. Its rather wonderful really and I highly recommend seeking this story out if not the others.

At the Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday
I only wanted The Rocky Horror Picture Show last year and its a good job I did or all these references wouldn't have made any sense! This was a weird story about a girl hunting cannibal girl scouts, I mean what an odd concept? Now you're like how does TRHPS have anything to do with this, well she then stumbles across a car full of vampires cosplaying for a Rocky Horror event haha.

IV League by Margarent Stohl
I didn't really like this story until the end, it was slow and not as exciting as the other but its about young vampires trying to enrol into schools but struggle due to their vampire state. I'm pretty sure they had a dog vampire at the end...

Gargouille by Mary E. Pearson
This tale was beautiful, its about a Gargouille that was capture and had their wings clipped and is loosing her memory because of it, its really heartbreaking as she's recently fallen in love too! But it has a really lovely ending :3

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
This was also one of the slower ones, it follows a pair of sisters - one who has "pulses" every now and then about certain things she has to do and this time it involves leaving in the very earlier hours of the morning for safety reasons. It turns out to be more complicated than just these pulses as others decided its murdering time!

Automatic by Rachel Caine
Last but not least we have another vampire story but this one is super amusing as its about a vending machine for cans of blood, it really tickled me this one and I really want to read something by Rachel Caine now.

[Analeise · Rating 3 out of 5]

I only read hers 🫣

[M.C. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this anthology of paranormal stories.
I will write my impression on each one of them, and rate them separately, as well as the whole book.
Let me just say before I begin that most of these stories are based on series, or books, previously published by these authors. Of these, I have only read As You Wish by Jackson Pearce and Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr, but I had no trouble enjoying most of the short stories.

Giovanni's Farewell by Claudia Gray
I liked this ghost story, although I wish it was more fully fleshed-out. It has no romance to speak of, although there is a beautiful bond between two twins. 2.5/5

Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan
I absolutely loved this story that has to do with a zombie infested land. It was a bit creepy, but considering how easy I scare, it wasn't scary at all. It was really strong, and it made me think. 5/5

Red Run by Kami Garcia
Also a ghost story, interesting, and a bit more scary than the previous stories, although I thought it moved a bit slow. 2/5

Things About Love by Jackson Pearce.
I am afraid this story was the worst of the anthology. It had absolutely nothing to say to me. It is a continuation of the As You Wish book, so it is about genies, but nothing happens, I am afraid. 0/5

Niederwald by Rachel Vincent
This story about harpies must have something to do with some other books by this author, because I didn't understand a lot. It was beautifully written though, and it had something to say. My rating of this story is valid only for people who haven't read the other books in the series. 3/5

Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr
This story swept me away, completely. I even had a dream about it. (!) It is so romantic and sweet and magical. It feels like Christmas, reading this story. And, although I have only read the first book in the Wicked Lovely series, I had no problem understianding it. I think it is pretty much stand alone. It has to do with fairies, but the rest is a spoiler, so I won't say anything more. 5/5

Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong
A lot of paranormal creatures here, a lot of growing up and coming to terms with one's past and guilt. I would have enjoyed this story more if I had read the other books by this author, still it was really well-written and it had a lot to say. 4/5
Let's Get this Undead Show on The Road by Sarah Rees Brennan
I really liked this story. There is a vampire in it, and humans, and it is very interesting. I loved the relationships between friends, the coming-of-age and the rock music. I think it was a smart story 3.5/5

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready
This is written in verse. I think there is a whole series with the same theme, but I truly loved the short story. It made me think. I couldn't put it out of my head for days. It's about a ghost trying to het in touch with his living brother. It is absolutely amazing in every way. The writing, the characters... It felt like reading a novel instead of just a short story. 5/5

Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting
Again, I don't know if I would have understood this better if I had read more books from this author. This is really scary and violent, and creepy. Some romance, some tragedy. 3/5

Leaving by Ally Condie
I don't know whether this was in the same world as her Matched series or not. But I loved it. It was romantic and deep. I loved the meaning of the whole 'leaving' idea and what it represented. It was also written beautifully. 5/5

At The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday
Ok, this story was just weird. And gory and creepy. And short, thankfully. 1/5

IV League by Margaret Stohl
Creepy. Weird. Vampires. Yuck. ?/5

Gargouille by Mary E. Pearson
This was another amazing story. Romantic and full of meaning. And adventure, too. I absolutely loved it. And it has a new genre of paranormal creatures, which I would love to see more of. 5/5

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
This story was nice, I enjoyed it. Especially the ending. 2.5/5

Automatic by Rachel Caine
This one was romantic, but really short. 3/5

Overall, I read five incredible stories in this book. No matter what the rest of them were, this is enough for me to rate Enthralled four stars.

Rating: 4/5

BLOG http://bookshelfstories.blogspot.com

[Melissa Elsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note: This rating is only based on Kelley Armstrong's story "Facing Facts". I haven't read any of the other authors books so there is not really a point to read the short stories, because I probably wouldn't understand them completely.

A SPOILER... for anyone who hasn’t read Kelley Armstrong’s Darkest Powers trilogy, which in includes The Summoning, The Awakening and The Reckoning.

This is a short story written about what we already have found out in the trilogy, which is that Kit is not only Simon’s father and Derek’s stepfather, but is also Tori biological father. So this story is about Kit, Simon’s father, telling both Tori and Simon that he is Tori’s father too.

I love Kelley Armstrong’s Darkest Powers trilogy, so I love reading the short stories to the series. “Facing Facts” was a really good short story. This story was really interesting. I love reading how Tori found out, how she was going to react and loved reading more about the characters. This story was more than I expected it to be when it threw an unexpected twist.

[Pam Pho · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only anthology I have ever read where not one story made me regret reading it. Full review to come closer to date but know this. It is TOTES worth reading.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short story about Tori finding out who her real father is.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is going to be a long review.

I love anthologies and I don't. It has to do with the fact that those stories are short and sweet. It is commitment free, however short stories can also be poor written and aprupt.

Lets see how this one does. Enthralled is centered on the theme of "journeying". It does not necessarily mean an actual journey or road-trip for every story. It could mean a journey within one's self to change or realization. I wondered how varying this theme could be without using the typical journey as a base.

Oddly, I enjoyed the first few stories but the ones at the back did not do it for me.

Giovanni's Farewell by Claudia Gray
4/5 stars

I have not read much from this author. I read the first two of the Evernight books years ago and as I recall now they were not all that special.

This started on a most interesting premise of a brother sister bond and supernatural powers. Coupled with unique names lime "Cairo" and "Ravenna". I felt that it was short but ended nicely. Okay the kissing the ghost part was corny. I understood Ravenna feelings for wanting to fit in with everyone honestly though.

Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan
4/5 stars

I read another one of Carrie's short stories from another anthologies Shard and Ashes. It was pretty good.

Yay! dystopian! my fave!

I am in love with the genre. However I felt like this did not have as much fleshing out of the world as I would have liked. Another sibling bond which I found myself liking in such a short span. The action came fast and I did not agree with the ending. Mainly because I think Margie agreed to accept Calvin after everything that happened. how old fashion and matronly does that name sound?

Rating is higher because what little Margie described about the world made me fascinated. Surprisingly I just learnt that this story is set in the same world as The Forest of Hands and Teeth series.

Red Run by Kami Garcia
3.5/5 stars

I heard of this story before but not the premise. I liked the setting. It was not as deep as it seemed even though the themes are rather dark. But interesting enough and well written.

Things About Love by Jackson Pearce
3.5/5 stars

My fave author for fairy-tale retellings! This is a novella from one of her books. The concept was good as the world building is already fleshed out in the main book. The genie world did seem interesting but the name was not really special. I liked Lawrence and Juliet. Honestly I thought they would get together but I was far from right haha happy to be wrong as it made the story more interesting.

Niederwald by Rachel Vincent
3.5/5 stars

I was a little on the fence because of the MC in this story. At the starts she seemed kick ass and looked it too but as the story progressed. My perception of her changed. This whole story about her dragging a girl who has no idea what is going on while she risks her skin to ask the oracle whether she will get back with the guy she is obsesses with? Not cool. At all.

This is a novella from Soul Screamers and I have never read one book from the series. Safe to say Sabine is not happy that Kaylee and Nash are together. Get over yourself! What was interesting is what Syrie sees. However not interesting enough for me to want to delve into the 6, 7 books in the series.

Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr
3/5 stars

This is a novella is from Wicked Lovely. I read the first four books a few years ago. I remembered being intrigued by the dark world of faeries. I would think this story come after the fourth book, Radiant Shadows.

Keenan has to deal with being a mortal when he has spent centuries being a faery prince. He is forever in love with Donia the winter queen. They decide to have a short trip to the mountains, just the two of them to spend some quality time without their guards and royal handlers.

I did not like this. Yes, the premise was certainly romantic but all Keenan did was worry, all Donia did was worry and overthink alot. Keenan would reassure her that everything would be okay and she would distract herself with making out and having sex with Keenan.

Seriously, the number of the times that happened in the course of the story was nearly 80%

The only thing I liked about Donia is how sensible she is while she was in her role as queen NOT girlfriend of Keenan. Girlfriend sounds too plain for what Keenan makes her out to be. Ugh it is all "she is my everything, she is so beautiful, I want to be with her forever" kind of thought, on repeat. Then there was the video that went viral. That was actually quite funny.

Not the best novella from a highly acclaimed series.

Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong
3.5/5 stars

This is from a series I actually enjoyed! The Darkest Powers was paranormal and it is a light type of read. Some might not enjoy it though. This is where Tori finds out who her real father and half brother is. Chloe is in a awkward situation because she did not tell Tori about it even though she knew. Things gets complicated when Diane Enright causes trouble in her ghost form.

Lets Get This Undead Show On The Road by Sarah Rees Brennan
2.5/5 stars

This has no female MC and it is about a famous boy band with a vampire as one of their members. The personalities of the other three guys were certainly unique to say the least *cough*Bradley*cough* however this did deal with how Christian felt being a vampire. The vampire lore was loose and not as well done. Not to mention this was also boring.

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready
2.5/5 stars

I was really annoyed with how the was written and printed like a song lyrics. Along with the fact that I had no idea what was going on until a few pages in. This is the story of a boy who died and is a ghost. He is trying to communicate with his brother as there is no closure to their relationship. There is tension there.

He searches for a Post Shifter. Someone who can see ghosts and pass messages. It was interesting but I could not connect with the story. It was boring and MC has mildly inappropriate thoughts about the Post Shifter. Who cares about that, but anyway it is to be expected because he is a guy. It had nothing to do with the story as well.

Apparently this continues in a full novel. No thanks.

Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting
2.5/5 stars

This began rather mysteriously. Rafe is walking on a road in the middle of the desert, alone, in the middle of the night. He has premonitions in his dreams that have a tendency to come true. His current dream has led him here. He is dreading what he will find. While he walks, there are glimpses into his past where it shows Sophie, the girl he loves moving away to take care of her mother. This story felt like it was just a chapter taken from a novel. Not in plagiarism terms but more like the reader is thrown into the story at the beginning and then at the end, left hanging.

It was surprising that Rafe was introduced in Desires of the Dead. One of Kimberly Derting's books. The feeling like this is just a chapter from a bigger story makes sense now. But I am not interested.

Leaving By Allie Condie
3/5 stars

I admit I am rather biased to Allie Condie because I really enjoyed the Matched series. The short story is centered in a Dystopian world where people live in spheres, cubes and pyramids because the outside environment is deemed not liveable. Sora has been shunned by her classmates at school ever since her father disappeared. How does this relate?

I liked the concept of the world and the Heavens Dance in a cool young person way. Then there is Elios, whom she has a fond childhood memory with and is nice to her. Yeah yeah like I have not read it before. The idea of the Beautiful People confused me. Why is Sora so caught up on them? The story raises too many questions about them and gives no answers. Are these people healers, or celebs that people admired and therefore deem unearthly or something else entirely?

Not to mention the ending.

At The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday
3/5 stars

I do not really like long titles but I understand the irony to it lol

Through the story the MC's name is mentioned once. She is from a family of monster hunters and she has always felt left out because she is not really good at it. She hatches a harebrained plan to catch some monsters by herself. I liked that this world was filled with all kinds of paranormal beings from carnivore girl scouts, vampires to resurrectionists. Who are people possessed by demons who force them to cut off body parts of others to try and make a perfect body. I did not know that.

The tone of the story is light hearted and the vampires in this story are not fierce at all. I like that they are in drag and going to the showing of The Rocky Horror Show. But it holds the plot well for a short story.

IV League by Maragret Stohl
3/5 stars

I perk up when I see this author's name because of Beautiful Creatures but then it takes a few moments for me to realize this is the same author who wrote "The Icons" and my bubble burst. The story started out okay. Wren, a vampire goes on a college tour with her best friend Hopper. The dialogue and writing was boring but it got exciting toward the end, right at the end. By then, it was a waste.

Gargouille by Mary E.Pearson
4/5 stars

I thought the pronunciation to this was similar to "gargoyle" however it not.

This is probably one of the only stories not set in modern day. The world building was fascinating and I liked the writing. Yes, the love story is cliche and I wanted to smack Giselle for revealing herself so carelessly. For those who dislike the notion of young people claiming forever love, turn away!

The ending is rather open and it cuts off right where you want to know what happened. Did she remember or not?

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
3/5 stars

I kinda guessed that this would be an alien themed story and at the beginning it did seem that way but I was wrong. Angels who would have guessed? Not the best writing, it did not pull me in and the revelations of what was actually going on was revealed so late. I did not like the ending.

Honestly, more than 70% of the story felt pointless.

Automatic by Rachel Caine
3.5/5 stars

This is from her Morganville Vampires series.

It centers on Michael, a vampire and Eve, his human girlfriend. He is chosen to introduce the new blood in can vending machine to the vampires of the town and they are all skeptical. I did not know that Michael was still coming to terms with himself being a vampire hence his big reaction to the canned blood. I liked that Eve was so unique with her goth image. I loved Eve's utter support for Michael and her guts. Aww!

Overall this anthology had lots of choices, I enjoyed it but some stories I did not. It is to be expected.

[Nicole - Too Weird To Live, Too Rare To Die- · Rating 4 out of 5]

“How many fingers am I holding up?" he inquired. Lucille regarded him blearily and said, "Avocado.”

4.5 even supernatural can find love stars

Have you ever wonder what kind of supernatural was out there, what they did in their spare time, if they hunted or even from your favorite stories came to life through your favorite characters. In our dreams we always wondered what it would be like to have psychic powers, to live forever or even to have powers that come up once in a while. These dreams come to a reality through these short stories and they are amazing. Each author has it's own unique writing style or way of telling a story, you just have to give them a chance and see where it takes you. You might even fall in love with these characters.

Giovanni's Farewell by Claudia Gray. 5/5 This story is about two twins Cairo and Ravenna, who have a special bond that no seem to understand. But during a class trip to Rome, Italy, Cairo develops powers that sense people's emotions and fantasy, while Ravenna, can see ghost and talk to them. Then she meets a ghost name Giovanni, who died in the catacombs. He has a dying wish that only Ravenna can fulfill. I really like this take on a ghost story because its set in a city I really want to visit and the bond the twins have is really unbreakable. I really want Claudia Gray to write either a full length novel or a series because this would be epic.

Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan. 3.5/5 This is based on Carrie Ryan zombie apocalypse series The Forest of Hands and Teeth, when two sisters live in a remote cabin the forest trying to survive a zombie outbreak that occurred in their town. While trying to get ready to go to a another state a stranger puts the girls in danger and now they have to do everything they can to survive. This short story is from her other series which I haven't read yet but heard it was really good and I was invested in these characters to find out what happens but I was also confused to what was going on. Defiantly next on my TBR list is this series.

Red Run by Kami Garcia. 5/5. There is place between the swamp and the town, it's called Red Run Road, it haunted by the ghost who have died there. A girl, who's brother dies on this road decides to go out and visit the ghost that she thinks killed her brother, but once she meets this ghost she realized there is more to the story then she thought. This was a little scary and I love reading books about ghost and what happened to them and what they kill and haunt people, but this had a little twist and I like it and also showed the aftermath of what a family goes through after a child dies.

Things About Love By Jackson Pearce. 5/5 This is a little continuation from her book As You Wish, which follows Violet's best friend Lawrence, and what he has to deal with when a Ginn name Juliet, comes to visit to find out answer about love. But the love she's trying to find only exist in movies, she gets to see hands on the struggles everyone goes through. I liked this story a lot because we get to see Violet best friend take centre stage and his love life of liking guys. Even though I haven't read As You Wish, I never felt confused and really liked the chemistry between the two characters and it was a really cute story.

Niederwald by Rachel Vincent. 3.5/5 Also another short story from her series which I haven't read yet, but want to in the future, it follows a girl name Sabine, who want answers for something in the future and she goes visit a fortune teller she has know for almost all her life in a town called Niederwald, but she has to bring the person she hates the most best friend along which can ruin her plans. Interesting take on supernatural specifically psyche and harpies, and I think this is from her series Soul Screamers, which I have been meaning to read for a long time but never got around to it.

Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr. 4/5 Another short story from her highly acclaimed series Wicked Lovely and it's about fae or fairies, which I love reading about them and this story is about the two main characters the queen of the winter court and the king of the summer court and they go on a vacation to a ski chalet to enjoy some relaxation time before they have to get to serious work. It was cute and I love the chemistry between the two but I was also confused and kind of gave some spoilers but really I liked it and want to read this series really bad.

Facing Facts by Kelly Armstrong. 3/5 This is from her first series she wrote and haven't read and heard really good things about it. It's about the main character has to deal with the aftermath of the things she did in the past and also her friend (there semi close) finds out a big secret about herself and runs away while the main character tries to help her and find her, some serious things happen that affects everyone around her. It was interesting and scary a little but it was a cool way to portray kids that have been genetically modify in a lab. I really want to read this series and fall in love with the characters.

Let's Get This Undead Show On The Road by Sarah Rees Brennan. 5/5 This story is about a band that has a vampire in their group and around the world there is a craze to either be a vampire or get with a vampire. Our main character just wants to be human and never wanted to be a vampire, but when the whole band gets kidnapped, he must choose between saving his fellow band members, or being the monster that everyone thinks he will be. How the characters interact with each other remind me of how the one direction would get along with each other and makes me miss them and this story was really cute and sweet.

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready. 4/5 This book really tugs at your emotional heart-strings and make you cry like no tomorrow. This book is also based on a band but one of the band member dies from a drug overdose and the brother blames himself because he felt he didn't do enough and might be thinking of drastic measures, until the ghost of the dead member tries to find a girl who can see him, help make peace with him and make everything right again. This is from her series called Shade, and it sounds interesting but also reminds me of the Cynthia Hand Novel that is about family and that one is a tear jerker.

Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting. 3/5 This about a character from her body finder series that you meet in the second book which I haven't read but read the first one. His power is how he can sense what can happen to someone in the future by touching something personal with them. He realise something is going to happen to his girlfriend when she leaves to live with her mother before anything bad happens to her. I like this type of power because the other main character in the series can sense when there is a dead body around and I wanna know how these two people intertwine.

Leaving by Ally Condie. 2/5 This was a dystopian story about a girl who's father left to go find the good people to save his world when in reality just wanted to see his wife before she died having the main character, and since the girl witness her father disappearing she is considered a outsider and no one pays attention to her and she wants to save the future and figure stuff out about herself but something shocking happens that might change her mind. This was a okay story, I read her other book where there are twins that live in a underwater city and that was pretty good, but this one I didn't really understand and was confused on the story and where the supernatural is.

The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday. 5/5 The main character is a underdog who is always the bait to her family every time they go out hunting and she wants to prove that she can do this on her own with out their help and kill creatures, but when something happened she runs into defanged vampires who are into The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and get into funny stuff their self's. I really liked this one because we got to see a comedy side to the story and I like how the chemistry between each character was absolutely great and also a little creepy and kick ass. Defiantly want to read more books by her.

IV League by Margaret Stohl. 4/5 This story is about a whole group of vampires that live in a small town and want to leave the dead ass town and make a path of their own instead, when the mayor of the town takes all the kids to Harvard, we see how there kind gets treated regularly and how the main characters are going to face it. I liked this one because we get to see how vampires get treated in this story but also how they are made which is cool and they have different names for the living (breathers) and the dead (drinkers). It would be cool to read more about this world.

Gargouille by Mary E Pearson. 5/5 This is about a girl that was captured by a man who thinks she is a Gargouille and then tears off her wings thinking they will get eternal life and live forever. The only reason why she got captured is because she got mated to a man she has loved ever since he came into their town and now since she got captured she is forgetting who he is and stays with a duke who is very nice and takes care of her until a mysterious boy comes that looks like her mate. I really liked this one because I have never read a story about Gargouille and really like to learn more about it and want to see how they survive. It was a very cute story.

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes. 5/5 This story is about two sisters who have their own unique powers, the oldest one has a sense when ever someone is in danger or they have to go somewhere quickly just to help anyway she can, and the youngest one doesn't realise until later on that she is a warrior for angels and her older sister is there to protect her. When people are after them, the only way to save them is to travel to a desert. I really liked this and loved learning about different type of angels that reside in their world and there bond really was the cutest thing.

Automatic by Rachel Caine. 3/5 This is from her series Morganville Vampire and follows one of the side characters after he was changed into a vampire and the mayor of the town wants to try out this vending machine that sells blood, but when things get out of hand, they have to find a way that gets everything back to normal. I thought it was interesting and love how they have human and vampires living together and I was confused because I didn't read the series, but overall pretty good little story.

“Everything I could want in eternity is possible because of you," he thought, and then he stopped thinking and simply enjoyed being in the arms of the one person in all of forever who made his life complete.”

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unlike all my other reviews I plan on being somewhat helpful in this one, so Im going to review each story seperately with a few dot points. lets do this...

*Probs minor spoilers coming on*

Giovanni's Farewell by Claudia Gray:
- I found this one a little too simple. As in Giovanni's whole reasons for not moving on in his afterlife. Seriously? I thought there would be some dark twist after the kiss but it was just simply that. Meh.
- Characters felt flat and didnt really interest me. I think twins are always an interesting concept, when done right. Not enough time and page length for that I guess.

Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan:
- I liked the idea of this, it was typical post apocalyptic zombie fare, but it was pared down to just two sisters and one remote hiding place. The idea of the atlas and travelling on an awesome trip (which we all know they can never have again) is sweet. But once again the characters were just too cliche. I just dont find it believable that Sally would be such a typical younger sister, babyish in attitude and all that when they are going to be eaten by freaking zombies! Wouldnt everyone toughen up and become crazy ass bitches with guns and not meek?!
The meek die in this scenario!!!
Ok, got dramatic there, but come on! We all know the innocent nice people die first when zombies come out. Either be badass or prepare to become dinner...

Red Run by Kami Garcia:
- Ok, now I liked Red Run. I really, really liked Red Run. A bit too similar to Supernatural (I guess everything is nowdays though huh) with that whole storyline and certain elements (like the boys who were hunters and building the EMF stuff in their garage... hmmm) but at the same time this is what I liked about it. It was familiar but then it had a minor twist. Me likey... and I also liked Edie, she seems fun.

Things About Love by Jackson Pearce:
- This is the typical romantic dribble that would usually put me into a (self) induced coma... but I bloody liked it! Im losing my touch... but seriously, I think this was a small, quirky and fun piece that didnt take itself too seriously compared to the other stories. I think thats what it has going for it, its really nothing like the other stories. Definitely closer to comedic territory (ok more Rom Com... Comedy is much too broad a description) and that works in its favour. And I really liked that Lawrence was gay. And genies, how cool are genies?! Why arent authors using genies more?!!!! People get on that!

Niederwald by Rachel Vincent:
- Now I love, love, love the Soul Screamers series. To its very core. And this short story did nothing for me. Only thing I enjoyed was Emma and thats coz Em is hilarious, but her small appearance wasnt enough to keep me interested. I dont like Sabine. I really dont like Sabine. She is smug, and doesnt give a crap and not in a 'you go girl' way but in a self serving way. Someone who cares nothing about anyone but herself who also happens to embody/be nightmares (dude, she seriously is a nightmare, everytime she pops up in the series)... just cant handle her. This one lost out for the pure fact of it being Sabine's POV for me.

Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr:
- Boring. When did Donia become boring? My God... I wish I hadnt read this one. It didnt add anything to the Wicked Lovely Universe (and I dont care if you argue it gave clearer ideas on whats gonna happen with Keenan. I couldnt care less about Keenan). I want awesome, cold as ice Donia back. This one with massive happy feelings is boring and complacent. (character arc? meh).

Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong:
- Written well and stays true to the world it originates from. All the characters I loved are in here. Yet once again... I was bored. I think I need more Derek. He can bark at me and order me around anytime ;)

Let's Get This Undead Show On The Road by Sarah Rees Brennan:
- Ok, I appreciate what was trying to be done here. Take cliche vampires, keep them cliche but make it hilarious coz its one cliche cluesless vamp in a rock band (hehehe... no). Lestat led a rockband. And he made it sexy. Christian was... boring (Im sorry, Ill get a thesaurus and find some more interesting words so my rambles of boring dont make you as bored as I was while reading...). I think it just needed something more. Sometimes there was a spark, like the drummer (Pez?) not realising the chick was a vamp and just thought she was an over enthusiastic groupie... but yeah, didnt take it far enough.

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready:
- Maybe I didnt get it, but I didnt like that this was written like prose. I think one paragraph/stanza stood out to me and then it just went back to 'huhhh?'. This is the kind of story where you think you're (as the writer) being brillaint by setting it out like a kick ass song or poem, you take it to class to get reviewd by everyone... and then they all say 'we didnt get it.' The teacher tells you the story didnt benefit from the layout in any way whatsoever and if you just go back and write it out normal it will be the exact same story. And thats why I didnt get it. Because for me the prose style didnt add or take away from the story. It just seemed gimmicky and a way to stand out from the rest of the anthology. Or maybe Im just too thick to get it just this once.

Skin Contact by Kimberely Dering:
- Was just starting to get interesting and then it ended! I liked the dark and moody atmosphere. I didnt mind that it seemed like a rehashed scenario Id read before. I'd be interested in reading more about the character. The writing was good.

Leaving by Ally Condie:
- I think me and Ally Condie just arent meant to be. I just dont like any of it. Her dystopian worlds are so... I dunno, flimsy? Not the right word. Squeaky clean, girlie imagined? That doesnt make sense. They just arent gritty! (thats better). And her relationships between main girls and guys just dont work for me.
So simple.
So sickly sweet.
So understanding.
Its like boy and girl share a look and then its all 'I understand exactly what you're going through...ermergherd lets be together in this screwed up dystopian world forever!' I dont like it. Im sorry, Im being condescending. Dont like it at all.

At the Late Night, Double Feature Picture Show by Jessica Verday:
- Someone just rolled over in a grave. For reals people. Im about to say something mind blowing... something I never thought Id say... I...Liked...A story... Written by Jessica Verday. *alarm bells ring... hell freezes over... i willingly eat pumpkin*.
WHAT JUST HAPPENED?! I loved it. Like Holy Guacamole Batman that was AMAZEBALLS (yes, I said amazeballs. Suck it!).
It was sooo good... If you choose to read only one story in this anthology THIS IS THE ONE! Its fun, the characters are goofy but make sense, it has enough random paranormal creatures thrown in without being stupid, it parallels Supernatural without making me think of Supernatural (ignore this reference, it doesnt count!)... It has cannibal Girls Scouts. CANNIBAL.GIRL.SCOUTS. My God, why didnt anyone else thinks of this before?!!!!!!! *runs around screaming like a cannibal girl scout who is hungry*

IV League by Maragaret Stohl:
- This story is very subtle. I think thats why a lot of people would be confused by it. I got it, honestly I did. I liked that it wasnt thrown in the readers faces, but at the same time its nice to be given some clear facts, espesh when it comes to world building. I didnt mind it. It was ok. One low point for me was the Protagonist Wren, for the first half I thought Wren was a boy. Even when it had been made clear he was a she I was still convinced until the last page references Wren possibly kissing Hopper. And even then I STILL had my doubts... Writing wasnt clear enough.

Gargouille by Mary E Pearson:
- Mmmm, half half? I liked the idea. The execution was average. It reminded me of olden fairytales (the proper ones like the Grimm Brothers etc) but still being a bit more family friendly. But it didnt go far enough. More cruelty, more background on the 'gargoyles'? That wouldve been cool. It was just too straight forward and simple in telling. And that was plain and simply due to it being a short story. Could be an aweosme novel though!

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynne Barners:
- Not bad, not bad. Has potential for a continuation. I like that it ended on a funny line between the sisters considering how heavy it all got. Felt like being plopped in the middle of a story though, not the start or the end.

Automatic by Rachel Caine:
- Again. Boring. (a trend here... its all the series' I've read, their short stories arent cutting it). Im pretty much over Morganville and its freaky peeps anyway... I am one of those readers that thinks book six would have been a fine ending and going beyond the original story arc has shown in all novels following. ANYWAY, I like Michael but this was just a boring story. We already know he is struggling with the vamp stuff and its true nature. Thats made clear in the novels. That was the problem, it brought nothing new to that Universe. Thus the boredom.

Wow, I think I did a pretty boring job there but considering Ive read this over a week it was hard to go back and think how'd Id felt with each story. Bottom line, READ AT THE LATE NIGHT, DOUBLE FEATURE PICTURE SHOW!!! It is worth it for that alone.

3/5.

[Lily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Giovanni’s Farewell // Claudia Gray Stand Alone
This story follows Cairo and Ravenna, twins who never had a stable home in one area, but when they go on this trip to Rome with their school, strange things being to happen to both them. This story was interesting but it wasn’t great. I was expecting or rather hoping for a shocker and really didn’t get one. Twins are always said to hold powers so that was nothing new. Still a cute story nonetheless.

3 stars

Scenic Route // Carrie Ryan Stand Alone
This was a really great story. It started off a bit slow and that just made it better. Seemed like in the beginning they were running away from something, and they were it just wasn’t what you originally think. It was only a few pages but Ryan used the right amount of pages to show emotion and truth. This wasn’t one of those stories where it’s all romance in a world where such a thing no longer exists, but the truth of what survivors will do and what they will do to protect the ones they love, sometimes it means taking the scenic route.

5 stars

Red Run // Kami Garcia Stand Alone
Edie is a girl who wants to hunt down the ghost who killed her brother, the only real person who took care of her. This story was written very well, I didn’t want to stop reading it once it got started. The way it went from Edie being in the present, to the past, especially the events that changed her life. Very interesting plot and a lot of the back story was supplied so it made for a great short story with a great amount of suspense.

5 stars

Things About Love //Jackson Pearce Stand Alone
Cute story that focuses around genies and the theory and basic research of love, the whole story flows very well together with just the right amount of information. But, in the beginning and I don’t know why I got the impression both of the narrators were male. Even though one said Lawrence and the other Juliet, but that was solved in the next page as the story got going.

3 stars

Niederwald // Rachel Vincent Series = Soul Screamers
First a question…Is this short story from her Soul Screamers Series because it seemed to have just started in the middle of something that I do not understand. So I have a lot of questions that I would like answered, so I guess I’ll have to read Vincent’s Soul Screamers Series. Which I would assume to be a lot of fun and very interesting, but, this story novella was good and interesting. I would like to know more about this world though.

3 stars

Merely Mortal // Melissa Marr From Series = Wicked Lovely
I didn’t know how much I missed the Wicked Lovely Series until I started reading this novella. It follows Keenan and Donia on a vacation. I really loved Marr’s world and this story, well, for me was well needed. I missed the characters and the storyline and I may read the books again, due to this novella. Very well written and a romantic plot that was just so sweet it made my teeth hurt. Lol. That was cheesy. ^.^

5 stars

Facing Facts // Kelley Armstrong From Series = Darkest Powers Series
Once again I actually missed the relationship between Chloe and Derek. Derek was my favorite character in the Darkest Powers Series, and I’m really glad that Chloe ended up with him. This story focuses on Kit finally telling Tori and Simon that there are step-siblings and things get a little strange from there. This was a really good novella making miss the characters and plot all over again.

5 stars

Let’s Get This Undead Show On the Road // Sarah Rees Brennan Stand Alone
Started out kind of boring and slowly got more interesting, but not very. This story focused on a band that had three humans and one vampire. Christian (the vampire) was attacked and forced to become a vampire and was coerced to join the band. Bradley the lead singer is sort of like a Zen master, with the whole ‘my body is temple’ thing. But the only thing I did enjoy about this story was the fact that there was no romance and it was about the bond that was forged between the four boys.

3 stars

Bridge // Jeri Smith-Ready From Series = Shade Series
Never read anything from the Shade Series, so all of this is new to me. Apparently from what I am gathering from this novella is that Aura, Mickey, and Siobhan lost a brother. He was given a dream, I believe to be in a band and make music but they had him shoot up and he over dosed and only Aura can see him. I do not know how this fits into the Shade Series. Logan is the ghost and he is t and he is trying to help his brother move on with the help of Krista. This novella was written in the form of a poem and was really good. It had lines with just one word and that made it more powerful and made the emotion real. Making me once again want to read the series.

4 stars

Skin Contact // Kimberly Derting Stand Alone
Wow. Now this story was amazing. It was incredibly sad, but to me that is a good thing. If a book or story can make someone scream (out loud I might add) or cry, or laugh, or bring about any emotion then that writer is a great one. This short story focused on Rafe and Sophie and the things that happened to both of them on a particular night. So sad and heart wrenching that my eyes got watery. A must read in this book!!!!

5 stars

Leaving // Ally Condie From Series = Matched Series // Stand Alone
Now I haven’t read Matched or any of the other books but this to me sounds like a good introduction to the series. Because it talks about the Sphere and on the cover Cassia is in a sphere. The main character is Sora and she is a girl who is considered to be an Untouchable because her father left her in search of the Beautiful People, but others think he just died, so she in a way is shunned. But there is a boy, Elio, and there seems to be a connection between Sora and Elio and they have both been Outside.

4 stars

At The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show // Jessica Verday Stand Alone
Really boring. This took legitimate effort to finish reading it, I can honestly say that I skipped over some parts. There were mentions of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, watched it with my boyfriend at the time and it was a totally waste of time. I really liked Verday’s writing and this was just not a show of it. I mean there were cannibal girl scouts who apparently could kill a person in a number of ways, then a Frankenstein wannabe and vampires who had been defanged and dressed in drag. I think was supposed to be funny but it just wasn’t doing it for me.

1 star

Iv League // Margaret Stohl Stand Alone
Ok I read it and quite frankly I didn’t understand it, I kept getting confused and it kind of frustrated me. I really liked the Beautiful Creatures Series and this was just I don’t even know how to describe it…

1 star

Gargouille // Mary E. Pearson Stand Alone
A unique love story between to gargouilles one named Giselle and the other Etienne. Giselle was captured, shot through the leg and put in cage for all the villagers to see. Etienne is in the crowd though and he sees her, and wants to rescue her. I really enjoyed this story it was really good and held my interest from beginning to end. Pearson seems to be a very good writer and I would like to see what else she has written.

4 stars

The Third Kind // Jennifer Lynn Barnes Stand Alone
Too many unanswered questions!!! Ugh, I really got into this story but it just leaves the whole plot with holes that at this point I need answered. From Kissy, to Jess, and even to Ariel. Right now I wish that Barnes would get on her computer and write a whole book dedicated to this plot and storyline. Well written and very intriguing.

4 stars, only because there were so many unanswered questions.

Automatic // Rachel Caine From Series = The Morganville Vampires Series
Michael and Eve are back!!! And a new vending machine is in the blood bank. Will it be a disaster or a savior? This was a really good story I haven’t read The Morganville Series for a while and I missed these characters even though it only contained Michael and Eve. Loved it!!

5 stars

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok. Because this is an an anthology, I'll rate everything individually, and then make an average. Here goes...

Giovanni's Farewell by Claudia Gray: 5 stars
This one I liked because it was a legitimate short story, with developed characters and plot and everything. A lot of the other stories were based on books and really confusing for me, considering I've only read The Body Finder series (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED) by Kimberly Derting, and the Matched series (HIGHLY DISAPPOINTING) by Ally Condie.
Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan: 3.5 stars
It was a good story, but I haven't read The Forest of Hands and Teeth, and the whole "change time" thing wasn't explained in the story. So while I liked the characters and plot, I found some parts vague and/or puzzling.
Red Run by Kami Garcia: 5 stars
Same as the first one. It was an actual short story, but still made sense.
Things About Love by Jackson Pearce: 3 stars
It was okay, just not really my type of story.
Niederwald by Rachel Vincent: 2.5 stars
Again it was okay, just not the kind of thing I usually like to read. Also, the author barely bothered to explain any of the terms from the books (The Soul Screamers series - DEFINITELY not reading anything with a title like that), so I was desperately confused. The one character I did like was Syrie the oracle.
Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr: 3.5 stars
Once again, it just wasn't what I like to read. (I really only read this for Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting, about the Body Finder series - paranormal is not usually my favorite genre.) It was written well, but I just really don't like the whole fairy thing.
Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong: 4 stars
It attempted to explain things, but did not do a great job. However, I admire the attempt, so 4 stars.
Let's Get This Undead Show On The Road by Sarah Rees Brennan: 5 stars
It was hilarious, and I actually understood it. So points for that. My favorite line was, "'How did you get soldiers to turn out, Faye?' asked Bradley...'The man was from an enemy nation.' Faye told him. Bradley hesitated. 'Canada?'"
Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready: 4.5 stars
I actually liked this one a lot, but it was slightly confusing since I haven't read Shade. I actually might read it now.
Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting: 12 KAZILLION STARS
I love anything about The Body Finder . I don't know if other people would understand or like it as much without actually reading the series, but I thought it was AMAZING!!! It was actually really depressing, so I don't know why I'm acting so giddy... I guess I'll stop when I finally realize there's no more Body Finder until April... *sob*
Leaving by Ally Condie: 2 stars
I try to give Ally Condie a chance. Honestly, I do. This is the third time. And it never really gets better. This story was vague, and weird, and confusing, and overall just not that great. Sora's dad gave her a glass globe, her dad left... time traveled... Outside. And her mom's dead, or something... and there used to be Beautiful People in the Beautiful Time, which is 2011, but that's 200 years ago... and also Outside and there are stars. (Because apparently 2011 is made of stars.) Oh, by the way, Outside is outside of the Globe. There are also Cibes and Pyramids, and stuff. When you go Outside, you immediately burn up, for some inexplicable reason. Also, you become an Untouchable by going Outside. This means not just that you are shunned by society, but also that they literally can't touch you for approximately two weeks. Also, there is a school dance called the Heavens Dance, with a sun (equivalent of prom king), moon (prom queen) and stars (princesses). Sora is, for some weird reason, a star. And then her sworn enemy, Mia (we don't know why she's so mean, all she says is "Sora, the assembly is this way") is the moon, and Sora's crush Elio is the sun. (The root helio means sun in Latin. How creative, Ally Condie! You dropped an "h!")Also, Elio has been Outside. Yay, now they are dating. Or something.
That's pretty much the whole story.
At The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday: 5 stars
This story was really funny (cannibal zombie Girl Scouts and cross dressing vampires headed to a Rocky Horror Show convention), and explained everything, so I didn't have to think through every name I came across and go, "Who are they again?"
IV League by Margaret Stohl: 1.5 stars
This was weird and boring and stupid. I did not like it, or the characters, at all.
Gargouille by Mary E. Pearson: 4 stars
It wasn't the bet thing I've ever read, but it was fine.
The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes: 5 stars
I really liked this story. It was interesting, well-written, and I didn't need to read anything extra to understand it.
Automatic by Rachel Caine: 3 stars
While it was okay, I just didn't like most of the characters, and it was about vampires. I am not a person who enjoys vampire novels, so it kind of annoyed me.

Okay, that's it... I'm going to do the star calculation now for the total for the book... (For averaging purposes, Skin Contact will receive 5 stars)

FINAL VERDICT -----
(5+3.5+5+3+2.5+3.5+4+5+4.5+5+2+5+1.5+4+5+3)/16 = 3.84375

So, four stars.
Thank you for your time.
That is all.

[Julie-anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

So my very awesome and Amazing friend, Danielle La Paglia, sent me this book as a surprise. And she even had it signed for me!

I wanted to read this as it has some of my favourite authors in it but with anthologies I'm always wary about buying a full book for a few authors. I thought with this review, I'd give my thoughts on all the stories.

Giovanni's Farewell by Claudia Gray
Very sweet little romance story.
I've never read anything by Claudia Gray before and I really enjoyed my first story by her. I'd be interested in reading more from this world but it seems it's not part of a series or the beginning of a series so I may just pick up her Evernight series to see if I like it.

Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan
Post zombie apocalypse story about 2 sisters surviving.
Another new author for me and I really enjoyed the world she made. Plus bonus: this one is part of a series so I get to read more.

Red Run by Kami Garcia
A haunted road makes a girl seek revenge for her dead brother.
I thought this was a new author but I didn't realise she wrote Beautiful Creatures which I have on my bookcase but haven't read yet. I must bump it up my TBR.

Things About Love by Jackson Pearce
A genie tries to find out about love from a human.
I've never read anything by this author either but I quite liked this short. I liked the idea of genies researching love 'cos they don't feel it.

Niederwald by Rachel Vincent
Based in the Soul Screamers series, this follows Sabine & Emma on a road trip.
I love this series and Vincent's writing so I really enjoyed this little short.

Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr
Based in the Wicked Lovely series, this follows Keenan & Donia on a holiday.
I'm still new to the Wicked Lovely series, having only read the first book so I feel like I've spoilered myself a little by reading this. But Donia was one of my favourite characters in the book so I still liked this.

Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong
Based in the Darkest Powers series, this has Tori finding out about Kit and putting her, and Chloe's, life in danger.
I love Kelley's writing and have recently re-read the whole Darkest Powers series so I was in the right mind frame for this story.

Let's Get This Undead Show On The Road by Sarah Rees Brennan
A vampire is the pulling factor for a boy band.
I didn't really enjoy this one, it was kinda cheesy. Thankfully only one of three that I didn't enjoy.

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready
A ghost finds someone to contact his brother.
The layout of this was a bit weird, it was written like a poem but I enjoyed the story. Unfortunately, the layout really was a put off.

Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting
A young boy has dreams that end up proving to be truth.
Another new author and a story that I really enjoyed. Very descriptive and well written.

Leaving by Ally Condie
A young girl lives in a society under a bubble but has a secret to hide.
Similar world to the Matched series. I really enjoyed this and liked the characters, there's potential for more.

At The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday
Young girl tries to prove to her family she can do the family job but runs into trouble.
Another one of the three that I didn't really enjoy. Again, it was because of the cheesiness - there was just too much of it.

IV League by Margaret Stohl
Two young "drinkers" try to get into college to get out of their dying town.
And here is the third story that I didn't enjoy. The story seemed good but it just didn't come across as well as it could have.

Gargouille by Mary E. Pearson
A gargoyle gets captured and gets her wings cut off, this means she'll lose her memory about being a gargoyle and all she knew.
I enjoyed this one, it was bittersweet but a nice wee read.

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
One sister has impulses that she must follow, the other sister is just along for the ride - until it turns out she's part of the 'pulses.
I really enjoy Jennifer Lynn Barnes' writing and this seems like it could be a good start to a series.

Automatic by Rachel Caine
Based in the Morganville Vampires series, Michael almost loses it when he tries the new canned blood.
Another favourite author of mine so I loved this. Eve is one of my favourite characters as well so I like to see more of her.


So it seems this anthology has just made my Goodreads to-read list that little bit longer. I do like that I've found some new authors to read but I'm pretty sure my bank account doesn't. Oh well, the life of a bibliophile.

[Wealhtheow · Rating 2 out of 5]

A collection of sf/f stories. Generally these stories are at least solidly crafted, but all too many of them rely on the reader being already familiar with the characters. My favorites were probably "Scenic Route" and "Let's get this undead show on the road."

"Giovanni's Farewell," by Claudia Gray. A teenager is afraid her twin brother is going crazy--but then she sees a ghost, and her reality is shaken. I liked the relationship between the twins, but this story was very short and lightweight.

"Scenic Route," by Carrie Ryan. Margie tries desperately to keep her sister safe and innocent, but it's difficult when they're constantly on the run from zombies. Then another survivor turns up, and Margie has to choose between keeping safe and human contact. I really liked the relationship between the sisters, and the revelation that Sally is able to kill for her family as well. The POV goes from limited to Margie to encompass Calvin for a few paragraphs near the end, and it's a jarring misstep.

"Red Run," by Kami Garcia. Edie hunts the ghost who killed her brother. Nice low-grade spookiness!

"Things about Love," by Jackson Pearce. Seems to be a short story follow-up to another story. In that one, a djinn and a human girl fell in love; in this, a djinn researcher tags along behind the girl's bff to discover what "love" is. I did not like the way the POV switches every couple paragraphs, but the story was fine.

"Niederwald," Rachel Vincent. A monster seeks an audience with the oracle to discover whether she ever gets her ex boyfriend back. It's clearly part of a larger story, so it isn't that compelling, but I did like the descriptions of the harpies and their caged oracle.

"Merely Mortal," by Melissa Marr. Two characters from some previously-written story talk about stuff that makes no sense because I haven't read the other work in this 'verse. Not well written, either.

"Facing Facts," by Kelley Armstrong. A continuation of a story about genetically modified magic users on the run from the Cabal that made them. A necromancer faces her feelings about using an undead enemy as a lethal tool. I quite like the characters and Armstrong includes some solid development of the necromancer's ethical position, but if I hadn't read the earlier work this wouldn't have worked for me.

"Let's Get This Undead Show on the Road," by Sarah Rees Brennan. A new vampire is part of a boy band, and hijinks ensue. Quite funny, with a few moments of melancholy or sweet connection.

"Bridge," by Jeri Smith-Ready. A ghost tries to stop his brother from committing suicide. Told in free verse, I presume because the narrator wrote songs, but it adds absolutely nothing to the story. For such heavy subject matter, this doesn't leave much of an impression.

"Skin Contact," by Kimberly Derting. Troubling story about a boy who can sense the past through objects he touches. I'd like to read more about him.

"Leaving," by Ally Condie. In the future, a girl tries to decide what part of the past to travel to. Eventually she realizes that fleeing her present won't solve anything. I liked it.

"At the late night, double-feature, picture show" by Jessica Verday. A young Hunter is out to make a name for herself, but instead of a simple goblin takedown, she gets involved in a cannibalistic Girl Scout Troop, high-kicking vampires, and a resurrectionist. Loopy but not actually funny.

"Ivy League," by Ivy Stohl. A young vampire tries to get in to Harvard. Funny and sad, with a really great narrative voice.

"Gargoille," by Mary E Pearson. When a gargoyle loses their wings, they lose their memories as well. After Giselle is captured and parted from her wings, she makes a new life for herself. Months later, another former gargoyle joins the Duke's court--her former lover let himself get captured so they could be together again, though neither knows why they're drawn to each other. The writing isn't great, but the basic plot is good.

"The Third Kind," by Jennifer Lynn Barnes. Jess is used to her sister having fits and dragging her along on strange missions. This particular quest is stranger than usual, though, and eventually Jess learns that it isn't her sister who has to be protected--it's her. This felt like a great beginning to a cool story, but it cuts off right when it gets truly interesting.

"Automatic," by Rachel Caine. A new vampire tries out the new blood vending machines. Somehow, the automation of it makes him even closer to his bestial side.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This anthology did not disappoint me in the least! I read this around Halloween and it fit into the holiday season perfectly. Every story flowed into the next. When some got too "heavy", along came a story to rescue the mood. Here's my non-spoilery review of each story I read (and didn't read):

Giovanni's Farewell by Claudia Gray - A very sweet, touching short story that had me wishing for more of Ravenna and Cairo's story. I added Claudia Gray to my TBR pile. 4/5

Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan - Intense and generally freakin' outstanding! 5/5

Red Run by Kami Garcia - One of the best Halloween tales in this book. 4/5

Things about Love by Jackson Pearce - As soon as I finished this one, I ran to Goodreads to look at the series and promptly added As You Wish to my TBR pile. Loved the world! 4/5

Niederwald by Rachel Vincent - I couldn't resist reading this one without having read any of the Soul Screamers series. I wanted to see what Ms. Vincent's writing was like. I was able to understand the world in the short amount of time that a short story provides. I really liked the character of Sabine and I questioned if I would like Kaylee when I got into the series. Turns out, I love Kaylee so far (I'm doing the Soul Screamers Challenge right now) so we'll see what happens when Sabine enters the picture. 4/5

Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr - I skipped this story because I'm in the middle of reading the Wicked Lovely series, which this story is from. I believe I may have spoiled the series for myself because I couldn't control my curiosity and I started reading it. That'll teach me! no rating

Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong - I skipped this story, as well, because it's a part of the Darkest Powers world she created and I wanted to wait to read the trilogy before I read this short story. no rating

Let's Get This Undead Show On The Road by Sarah Rees Brennan - This story was okay. It took me a little bit to figure out what was going on. Ms. Brennan had to spend quite a bit of the story setting up the world and dynamics of the characters before getting to the actual "drama" of the story. I may be a little critical of the story because the basic idea behind the story just kind of bothered me. So take my review of this story with a grain of salt. 3/5

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready - This story was in a format I have never read before. The format was a perfect fit for the sad tale. I really enjoyed this story and thought it was very well written. 4/5

Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting - This story comes from the Body Finder series. I think this part of Enthralled is where they decided to put all the sad stories because this one just tore me up. I can't say anything else... 5/5

Leaving by Ally Condie - I was curious about Ms. Condie's writing because I have Matched sitting in my TBR pile waiting for me. I liked this story and I thought she succeeded in writing a very "deep" piece in a short amount of pages. 3.5/5

At The Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday - This was a quirky story that reminded me of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. It was a fun read after all the serious stuff. I would like to see what a series would be like with the main character (if there is a series, I couldn't find it). 3/5

IV League by Margaret Stohl - Meh, this one just wasn't my "cup of tea". It was a well written story, don't get me wrong. But in an anthology, you're bound to run across something that isn't to your tastes. 3/5

Gargouille by Mary E. Pearson - I loved the fairy-tale-ish world of this love story. I just re-read it again and I got chills up my arms the second time, even knowing how it ends! That's a good story! 5/5

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes - This one is peculiar. You just kind of have to go along for the ride. Just a little warning: I didn't find all the closure I needed. Where's the series when you need it?! 3/5

Automatic by Rachel Caine - Finally, I skipped this one but I'm SURE it was outstanding. Why do I know that? Because it's Rachel Caine! Okay, so I'm biased.... I skipped this one because I'm only halfway through the Morganville Vampires series and this story is from that series. You're probably asking yourself, "Why is she such a big fan of Rachel Caine if she's only halfway through Morganville?" Three words: Weather Warden series! One of the first UF series I read non-stop! Brilliant. But I digress... no rating.

[Mary BookHounds · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here are the stories contained in this anthology which all take some form of a detour. For an anthology, it is amazing since I didn't skip any stories! I usually find one or two that I just can't read.

Giovanni’s Farewell by Claudia Gray

This will leave you wanting more: twins develop supernatural powers while in Rome and have an adventure.

Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan

You will be extremely familiar with the post apocalyptic world here if you have read Carrie's previous zombie books. This one is just as creepy and follows two sisters who are barricaded in a remote home and are found by brothers who get quite a surprise by the older sister.

IV League by Margaret Stohl

Southern Gothic moves to the Northeast as a vampire tries to attend Harvard with her "normal" friend.

Red Run by Kami Garcia

Seriously, seriously creepy. A girl is searching for her boyfriend and comes face to face with a ghost who is haunting Red Run Road. The story has a nice and unexpected twist when the ghost turns out to be something else.

Things About Love by Jackson Pearce

Something new! This is a nice little romance with a twist that is told from the point of view of a genie and the boy she is sent to protect. I adored this sweet story.

Niederwald by Rachel Vincent

Ahhh, yes! Sabine and Emma take a road trip from Soul Screamers. Sabine is one of my favorite characters and her bad attitude is almost put in the background in this story. A must read for fans of the series since a bit more about Kaylee is revealed.

A Mortal Winter King by Melissa Marr

Donia and Keenan take a vacation! They try to make it normal, but of course that doesn't work out when Donia tries to be human again. This left me wanting more.

Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong

I haven't read the last book in the series with Chloe but this one brings out a bit more of Derek and explains what happens to Tori when she finds out what happened to her father.



Let’s Get This Undead Show on the Road by Sarah Rees Brennan

ADORED this one! I am a huge fan so to read more words by Sarah Ress Brennan is a pleasure. This one follows a boy band with a vampire lead singer and the corrupt manager that treats him like a second class citizen.

Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready

The first story I immediately turned to was Jeri Smith Ready's Bridge where Logan contacts his brother, who is deeply depressed and considering suicide since he feels responsible in part for Logan's death. The story is told in free verse which is amazing considering the effort it takes to contain a lot of thought in so few words. This is a must read for any Shade/Shift fan.

Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting

I haven't read this series yet, but the story was a nice start for me. I will have to go back and check this one out.


Leaving by Ally Condie

I liked this one as well. I haven't read anything by her before and this was a nice introduction.

At the Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday

Anyone who can take girl scouts and make them into cannibals, a van full of cross dressing vampires and evil ghosts, well, that has my vote! This one is very humorous and amazingly action packed for a quick read. I want more!

Gargouille by Mary E. Pearson

A new type of love story for me in which gargoyles are the main feature. This is a very sweet story about a girl gargoyle who find love. This would be wonderful to be a full feature.

The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Jess' sister Krissy needs to follow her impulses even if that means racing off in the middle of the night. I wish this one had a bit more conclusion.

Automatic by Rachel Caine.

I have Caine's whole series sitting here and I haven't read them. The story goes into detail about Michael and a new machine that dispense blood like a coke machine at Amelie's request. The blood's preservatives have interesting effects on Michael.

[Katie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Merely Mortal By Melissa Marr

I'm not exactly sure why I chose to read this novella. It was quite boring and honestly a complete waste of my time. This can't even be called a novella because it was all of thirty pages long. Therefore it doesn't even count. Melissa Marr should have just left the series where it was at. That would have made this a whole lot better for me. Because there's not much I can say about this to be quite honest. If it was a little bit longer than I suppose I could write more about it. But as it is I'm going to find it extremely difficult to write about it, that's for sure.

This novella, if it's even that, features both Donia and Keenan. Donia is more stressed out than she's ever been before. Not just because she's worried about her people, but because she's also worried about Keenan. Keenan is no longer one of the fae. He's completely mortal and has all the vulnerabilities that go with it. Leaving Donia, a fae Queen, to stress out about not trying to hurt him in anyway. Keenan is more than overjoyed to actually be a part of Donia's life once and for all. He doesn't have to worry about his Court's needs anymore and in the meantime he has Donia all to himself. The only way to have her completely to himself is to go on a vacation with her too. So Donia is now stressing over every little thing Keenan is planning, the only vacation that they'll ever have together. It'll be both their first times at it and Keenan feels like it'll make them grow even closer together. So with all of this in mind Keenan whisk them away to have their own perfect little getaway. Donia is more than happy to do this, because she feels like they need to grow closer as a couple. Now if only Keenan knew how to navigate around the human world. Perhaps if he did things would have turned out differently.

This is the last novella in this series and while it did go with the rest of the series real well, it still sucked majorly. The plot to this novella was very boring and I'm quite honestly not sure what it really was about. I'm assuming it was for them to live happily ever after. If that is the case then Melissa Marr did succeed, but it was still horrible. It's still a young adult fantasy romance novel, but it still lacks that flare that the other ones did. It was more single-minded in this novella and this time it didn't work for them. It was dull and a little unimaginative, which is usually never the case. So while it went along with the rest of the novels, it really wasn't even a part of them. I wouldn't recommend reading this novella at all to be honest. It just wasn't that good.

*Read on January 2nd, 2016

[Faye · Rating 4 out of 5]

First read: 2012
Re-read: November 2015

I originally bought this anthology for the stories by Rachel Vincent, Kelley Armstrong and Rachel Caine and they were the only ones I read at the time. I decided to re-read this in its entirety and I found that I had missed out on a lot on my first read because most of the stories in here are really good.

Giovanni's Farewell by Claudia Gray - 4/5
Scenic Route by Carrie Ryan - 4.5/5
Red Run by Kami Garcia - 4.5/5
Things About Love by Jackson Pearce - DNF

Niederwald by Rachel Vincent - 5/5 - FAVOURITE (re-read)
Niederwald is set in the Soul Screamers series and is told from the view point of Sabine. Sabine is a Nightmare, or Mara and can induce fear and terror into her victims. In the main series she is initially seen as an obstacle to Kaylee and Nash's happiness but here we see how much she loves Nash and how she will risk everything to get him back. When I first read this story it completely changed how I felt about Sabine. It is a good, action packed read and definitely worth reading for fans of the series.

Merely Mortal by Melissa Marr - 3/5

Facing Facts by Kelley Armstrong - 5/5 - FAVOURITE (re-read)
Facing Facts is set after the end of the Darkest Powers trilogy. Chloe is still struggling to come to terms with everything she had to do to survive and when Tori (her frenemy turned ally) learns a secret about her family and heritage Chloe puts aside her own problems to help Tori. This was a good read. I liked re-visiting the Darkest Powers series and this made me want to re-read the trilogy.

Let's Get This Undead Show On The Road by Sarah Rees Brennan - 4/5
Bridge by Jeri Smith-Ready - 5/5
Skin Contact by Kimberly Derting - 3.5/5
Leaving by Allie Condie - 2/5
At the Late Night, Double Feature, Picture Show by Jessica Verday - 3/5
Ivy League by Margaret Stohl - DNF
Gargouille by Mary E. Pearson - 4/5
The Third Kind by Jennifer Lynn Barnes - 4/5

Automatic by Rachel Caine - 5/5 FAVOURITE (re-read)
Automatic is set in Caine's Morganville Vampires series and is told from the POV of Michael, a newly turned vampire. An automatic blood dispenser is set up in the Morganville blood bank and Michael has been asked to test it out in front of the other vampires first. This is another brilliant story in the Morganville series and a really good way to end the anthology.

[Kathy Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This anthology has a theme of journeys, both actual and virtual. The idea of the anthology came from an author tour including quite a group of YA authors. I like anthologies because they give me a chance to sample authors I haven't yet read and also get new peeks into the world of authors I do read.

New to me authors in this anthology were Claudia Gray who wrote a story about twins who discover that they have psychic gifts, Carrie Ryan who writes a story about sisters trying to survive after an event ends life as they know it, and Jessica Verday who writes a story that includes defanged vampires on their way to a Rocky Horror Picture Show convention.

Kelley Armstrong, Rachel Vincent and Rachel Caine write episodes in their long-running series. Jeri Smith-Ready's story takes the form of a poem about a ghost who needs to make things right before he can move on.

I enjoyed all of the stories in the anthology. I liked that they each had interesting takes on the idea of journeys and that they each had their own emotional signature from funny to scary to romantic.