This series will be the death of me. I can't get anything done because my nose is stuck in the books. I'll try to take The Fiery Cross slowly. I said This series will be the death of me. I can't get anything done because my nose is stuck in the books. I'll try to take The Fiery Cross slowly. I said "try", not making any promises....more
I've never finished an audiobook within hours of starting it, unless it was really short. The narrators brought these characters to life. Full RTC!I've never finished an audiobook within hours of starting it, unless it was really short. The narrators brought these characters to life. Full RTC!...more
This is even cuter than the first book! If you want a quick, fun and sexy holiday romance, Men at Work is the perfect series. I had a lot of fun with This is even cuter than the first book! If you want a quick, fun and sexy holiday romance, Men at Work is the perfect series. I had a lot of fun with this one. Dude, it's a hot DAD. How can you resist? Full RTC!
I haven’t even read the last book in this trilogy but I’m already convinced that this is my favorite. Her Naughty Holiday is just as fun and sexy as Her Halloween Treat, but there’s some seriousness to it as well. I adore Clover, Erick and Ruthie. I could happily read a whole series about them as their lives go on. I can’t recommend this installment enough! This is the second book in a holiday trilogy: Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas – and can be read alone. Previous characters are mentioned but I promise you won’t miss out on anything. Still, I’d definitely read them all just to get in on the fun.
I loved this for a few reasons. 1) Clover reminds me of the old ME, a little. I used to be quiet and very passive – not wanting to make a fuss out of anything but keeping to myself how much my feelings are hurt. Now, I’m just quiet. That passive shit is for the birds. Luckily, I don’t go to my family gatherings anymore and when I do see them it’s hi & bye. Clover’s family are just plain old snobs. The way they talked to her, but tried to sugarcoat it all up, just pissed me off. I’m glad that Erick came along when he did. Which brings me to my next point. 2) Erick has got to be the greatest father ever. It doesn’t hurt that he’s hot, but his bond with his 17 yr-old daughter, Ruthie, is adorable. They bicker like siblings, but he is first and foremost her parent. I love that whole hot-single-dad-contractor thing he has going on. 3) Ruthie is my type of girl. She is all ecofeminism and hooking her boss (Clover) up with her dad. Clover needs someone to play boyfriend for Thanksgiving. I’m so glad that she decided against Sven, the male escort.
Clover and Erick hit it off immediately. It felt right since they’ve been checking each other out for a whole year, but doing nothing about it. Clover has been through so much and she turned out to be a happy person. Well, when her judgmental family aren’t around. This girl runs her own business and could possibly be a millionaire if she sells it. What happens at Thanksgiving? Does Clover sell her business? You have to read to find out. This installment is even better than the first one, so I am eager to read One Hot December.
If you want some fun reads this fall, I highly recommend this trilogy. They are quick, fun sexy and filled with holiday debauchery. You will enjoy every second!...more
I love Dali and Jim. Not as much as Kate and Curran, but more than Andrea and Raphael. I love reading these novellas that feature supporting characterI love Dali and Jim. Not as much as Kate and Curran, but more than Andrea and Raphael. I love reading these novellas that feature supporting characters from Kate Daniels' world. This one is even better than Magic Dreams. Full RTC!...more
Skinny-dipping? Yes, please! Lots of death and destruction going on here. Whether in reality or fiction, humans have always tried to take what wasn't Skinny-dipping? Yes, please! Lots of death and destruction going on here. Whether in reality or fiction, humans have always tried to take what wasn't theirs. The Elders play no games. Loved this, despite all the bad things that happened. Full RTC!...more
*4.5 stars* I'd be very scared right now, if I were living in Thaisia. Or, hell, the world. I kind of feel like this in reality, to be honest. Full RT*4.5 stars* I'd be very scared right now, if I were living in Thaisia. Or, hell, the world. I kind of feel like this in reality, to be honest. Full RTC!...more
Even better than the first! God, what's it gonna take to get Simon and Meg together? RTC!Even better than the first! God, what's it gonna take to get Simon and Meg together? RTC!...more
Wow, didn't expect this to be a 5 star read. I love the way everything connected, and the writing is amazing for a debut. Full RTC!Wow, didn't expect this to be a 5 star read. I love the way everything connected, and the writing is amazing for a debut. Full RTC!...more
*4.5 stars* I absolutely love this story and characters. Well, not all of them. Particularly Julie and Ames, but I'm sure they'll be villainous in my r*4.5 stars* I absolutely love this story and characters. Well, not all of them. Particularly Julie and Ames, but I'm sure they'll be villainous in my review. Full RTC!
I was gonna bring you mini reviews of the last 3 Dessen titles that I read, but decided this one deserves its own post. I have at least 2 more of her books to read (I think), but I’m just gonna go ahead and say this may be my favorite of her books. I absolutely love this story, the characters, and of course the setting of Lakeview. This story covers a lot of stuff that people deal with in the real world, which is why I connected with it so well. Well, not the drunk driving brother who almost killed a pedestrian, but all the other things…..yeah, I got it. I won’t go over the synopsis (please read it), but rather what I liked and disliked.
What I Liked We have another misunderstood teen girl, whose brother is the favorite of the family, it seems. Even with him being in prison, he is front and center of the household. The only way that Sydney can try to cope with what he did is leave her old school (life) behind and start anew. I love how Dessen brings her characters to life. Sydney both made me proud and annoyed me. Only, my annoyance isn’t really warranted because I’ve been there. I realized how hypocritical it was of me to scream at her to open her mouth. She made me proud by making friends and opening up to them; even when she was scared to do those things with her old friends. Layla and Mac get Sydney, and she holds on tight to that feeling of being understood.
The friendships portrayed in this story are pretty much the same in all of Dessen’s novels; two girls from different walks of life become best friends, best friend befriends brother, soon best friend and brother fall in love. I love the familiarity of the writing. I didn’t get many feels from this, since there was really a lot of “heavy” going on, but I do like the direction that it went by the time the end rolled around.
In the end, I love how Sydney and Peyton worked out what was bothering them. And to think, Sydney had the wrong impression of him for so long. I was overjoyed when Peyton finally made his mom see the light a little. I get that she supports her son, but she was acting as if he was away at college and not in prison for paralyzing someone.
Dessen showed how a family cares for each other and it gives readers insight into what may go on in other families. The Chatham family is like a mirror image of my past and present. My mother was my top priority in high school and afterwards, so Layla and Mac became me and my brother. It was really scary to be inside this book, bringing back those memories. Instead of cancer like my mom had, the Chatham family deals with their mom’s MS (multiple sclerosis). I’m not sure how familiar any of you are with Transverse Myelitis, but it is almost identical to MS, and that’s what my sister has. So to say that I know the scares of the complications that the disease causes that family, would be a big understatement. Again, it was scary with how much of my life was reflected in this book. I guess that’s why I love it so much.
What I Disliked Julie, Sydney’s mom, was not a favorite of mine. First of all, I really don’t like the way she rarely paid any attention to the girl. Secondly, she refused to see the damage that her son caused. It was always excuse after excuse. And thirdly, the way she was so keen on letting Ames stay with Sydney while she and her husband went out of town, was the final straw. OMG, guys, this made me so heated! Ames is Peyton’s best friend, and he has Julie wrapped around his finger. Ames is creepy and always staring at Sydney, so she doesn’t want to be alone with him. Of course, her mom doesn’t see any of this because she’s too busy organizing for Peyton’s prison visits! It made me so angry whenever he was in the picture. I just…..I can’t even really get into why this freaked me the hell out. I just really understood Sydney a lot throughout this book. Ames is a slimy snake and I really hate him.
Recommend? Yes. A million times yes! I may be biased because so much of this book reminded me of what I’ve been through. I would like to think that it’s just an amazing story altogether, and Dessen gives you her best. However, if you are a Dessen virgin, I suggest starting with one of her more lighter novels to break you in. This one carries a lot of weight, and it may not be the lighthearted, feel-good story that you are looking for. Still, you should absolutely read this book!...more
*sighs* I knew that I should have bought the other books when I got this one. I wasn't sure if I'd like it, but I can kick myself now. Definitely goin*sighs* I knew that I should have bought the other books when I got this one. I wasn't sure if I'd like it, but I can kick myself now. Definitely going to be one of my favorite series. Full RTC!...more
*4.5 stars* Really love this story! It's more darker than any UF I've read, in terms of the paranormal beings running around. Definitely not your regu*4.5 stars* Really love this story! It's more darker than any UF I've read, in terms of the paranormal beings running around. Definitely not your regular blood suckers, shifters, and elementals. Favorite characters: Meg, Winter, Vlad, Tess, and all the ponies! Full RTC!...more
Being stuck at the convent doesn’t seem so bad. Uncle Bob and Cookie are about to tie the knot, and Charley is about to pop. Guess what? Charley can’tBeing stuck at the convent doesn’t seem so bad. Uncle Bob and Cookie are about to tie the knot, and Charley is about to pop. Guess what? Charley can’t even stop for a moment. She wanders around outside, following a dead nun into the woods, all the while knowing that the Twelve are right there. This one was so tricky. There were twists that I didn’t see coming. I mean, the moment we’ve been waiting for since book one has arrived. However, one twist wasn’t so surprising. If you’ve read this one, then you know what I’m talking about. I’ve been voicing my hatred for that person all along, so I knew something was up.
Big things happen in this installment. Mainly to do with Charley and Reyes. I mean, this wouldn’t be Charley if she didn’t at least try to solve a crime. But everything changes and a character that has been here since the beginning plays a big role. I won’t lie, I always suspected that character was bad, but I was so so wrong. We finally meet the man himself, and it’s like everything falls into place. I actually teared up at the end, because I wasn’t expecting that to happen. Man, that had to be the hardest thing for Charley and Reyes.
I was worried about Charley this whole book. Then, Reyes and Angel were acting all secretive. Reyes isn’t sleeping, and he’s hotter than he normally is. Temperature wise!! So that especially had me concerned. Osh and Garrett are around, and they are determined to keep Charley safe. Cookie is apprehensive about her honeymoon. We find out a little about her past, and I couldn’t help but laugh because she thinks she’s cursed or something. Agent Carson and her partner come to Charlie for help on a case. Charlie goes above and beyond, or shall I say below and beyond, to find a missing girl before it’s too late. Again, Charley does things without thinking that have dire consequences. However, Reyes makes mistakes too, so I can be mad with him as well.
I can’t explain how addicting this series is. There is always something going on that will have you on the edge of your seat. Reyes is hot, Osh is hot, Garrett is hot – do you need anymore incentive to read this series? There are ghosts, missing people, killers, demons, and stalkers everywhere. Sometimes not all is at it seems; which is why I like this series. ...more
You really have to read these books to know why there are so many things that make or break them for me. Charley and her ADD really annoy me. Really, You really have to read these books to know why there are so many things that make or break them for me. Charley and her ADD really annoy me. Really, the girl is on the go and going from case to case every freaking minute. I’ve just decided to go with the flow, because there is no hope of ever changing her. And I’m all caught up, so she has kept me gritting my teeth and laughing (sometimes). Trying to keep Reyes out of her crazy head proves to be hard, no matter what she does.
This installment comes with lots of dead women popping up in Charley’s apartment. Yeah, that freaked me out and had me on the edge of my seat. I wanted to know who killed them and why. Of course, this wouldn’t be Charley if she wasn’t looking into other cases. There’s the arsonist, and a vengeful husband to deal with. It all came about so fast, but Charley learns more about what she can do and it saved her life. Cookie is taking a class for gun safety, but is dead set on dropping it. Garrett is all cloak and dagger again, but we finally get a little more of the mystery that is Charley Davidson. Charley thinks Gemma is in danger, but turns out, that isn’t the case. And, Uncle Ubie is there to connect the dots. And if Reyes had been any more of a gentleman here, I’d have swooned to death. The guy earned major points in my book. Who knew he could be so good with kids. I “awwwwed” by butt off.
I loved everything about this installment. This series is addictive, and I love all the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. I texted one to my sister when I was reading, I think book 8, and she told me to f**k off. LOL! She then called and asked me what the heck am I talking about. Gotta love Charley, she can make even the moodiest person smile. If you haven’t picked up these books, what are you waiting for? They are fun, dark, twisted, and so freaking hot. Seriously, Charley and Reyes can set a room on fire when they’re together. Highly recommend this series!
Me Before You is one of those reads that leave you thinking about life and death. I hope that I won’t spoil this for those who haven’t read it, but it’s hard to make points when the things you want to discuss are so vital to the story. I’m not sure how much I can say that others haven’t already said. And I can totally see a lot of people disagreeing with the choice that was made in this book. Everyone has their views on the subject, but until you have been in such a life altering situation, I’m not sure you can really just….get it. Me personally? I would have made the same choice, so I can’t judge anyone for wanting to do the same.
I connected so much with Lou, that it was like staring in the mirror. I’m a middle child, so feeling like the one to always put the family first is something I get first hand. And to even voice these things makes people think you are selfish. It’s quite the opposite, actually. I’m just so glad that Lou had Will to push her in the right direction. I don’t hate her sister, Treena – no matter how much she played the single mother card. I admire her for going back to school, but I don’t like the way she jumped down Lou’s throat when she was about to quit her job. Sibling rivalry isn’t what I’d say it was between them; but there was this feeling of inadequacy from Lou’s perspective. I really don’t like Patrick. The guy got on my nerves so badly, and I hated every moment that he and Lou spent together. When he met Will, I was just so mad that he manipulated Lou. When Will made a move, Patrick countered. He had to up his game, even though he didn’t want to. He couldn’t stand the thought of Lou with Will. I was screaming for Lou to wake up and cut him loose!
As far as Lou’s parents go, I really like them. Even when her mom did that at the end, I still like her. I get her point, but I also get Lou’s point. It’s like going around in circles. Lou can’t change Will’s mind, Lou’s mom can’t change her mind, Will’s parents can’t change his mind. I don’t really have anything to say about Will’s parents or his sister. That whole charade was just so absurd. Everyone always thinks about what society will think about them. It wasn’t for Will’s benefit, I know that much. I do like Nathan, and was surprised with his lack of presence at the end. Still, I can get why he wasn’t around. I respect everyone’s debates about Will’s situation. There are no right or wrong answers, because no one knows what it’s like. I just knew that he and Lou would be so perfect together. That wedding dance scene made my heart go pitter patter. I’m not sure if I’ll survive this movie that’s about to be in theaters. I’ll make sure that someone is there to hold me up. This is just too hard.
That’s the best I can do without spoilers. This story cracked me open, and I’m not sure if I’ll ever be the same again. I’m not sure how long it’ll take me to read the sequel. Heck, this book sat on my shelf for 3 years, so maybe I’ll wait another three to even read After You. This book is heavy, I won’t lie. But I feel that everyone in the world should read this book. One man’s choice – that’s all you get. I won’t say anything else. Highly recommended!...more
And it has happened…….Mindy McGinnis has finally made me a true fan. I love this book! This may be a trigger for some, as it deals with issues such as: rape,sex, fanaticism, drugs/alcohol abuse, and violence. It took me mere hours to devour this book. I cringed through it. Not because I didn’t like it, but because this is a dark and gritty story that involves teens. I can’t get over how McGinnis just…..went there. I’ll just say it; this book needs to be passed around to teenagers everywhere. It’s not just about how “poverty breeds desperation”- as the preacher said in this book, that makes people do violent things. I’m not going to excuse someone’s actions just because they have had it bad. We are all human beings, and accountable for our actions. Females are always being slammed with criticism for dressing and acting a certain way. And here we have not only those issues, but 3 teens who become forever entwined by their experiences.
Alex: She once had a sister, Anna. Anna was murdered years ago, and her killer walked free. Alex has always appeared to be quiet. McGinnis takes what happened to Anna and gives us an example of how females have the instincts to be dangerous. To put it lightly, Alex let loose. She did it in such a way that it’s hard to swallow that this smart, kind girl can get violent. People see this girl going for runs, volunteering at the animal shelter, and is at the top of her class. But Alex knows herself. I’m not justifying anything that she did in this book, but I do like how the author portrays her. I’m all for the feminist movement, but I don’t condone retaliation for wrong-doing. Still, this is a damn good story!
Claire a.k.a Peekay (PK-Preacher’s Kid): The preacher’s kid who drinks and has sex. She doesn’t want her father’s profession to be her identity. I can’t even imagine being in her shoes. Society expects her to be this perfect girl, and she is far from it. When she starts volunteering at the animal shelter, she learns that there is more to Alex Craft than people realize. Alex tries to make Peekay understand that she is adding to the debasing of females by her words and actions against her ex’s girlfriend. Or to stop adhering to a nickname that you clearly don’t like. I like when they were getting to know each other. You know, girl power and all that jazz. Society is always slut-shaming girls about the clothes they wear, and if the girl is drunk then she is accountable for anything negative that happens to her. The obscene gestures that no one thinks are meant to be sexual, but are. We live in a world where it has only gotten worse as the decades roll by.
Jack: You can find him in any high school across the world. He’s the good looking guy that all the girls want to be seen with, and he is all too happy to oblige. When the search for Anna was underway 3 years ago, he was getting his freak on, only mere yards from where her body was found. To this day, he has felt guilty. He and Alex are both in the running for Valedictorian, but Alex is all too happy to give the title to him since she doesn’t have any desire to even leave town. He sees her now, and he wants to know more about her.
Alex starts forming relationships and is very protective. She is also very perceptive, and doing or saying the wrong thing to her has major consequences. Do all girls need to be more like her, in the ways of awareness and not standing for slut-shaming and inequality in the culture of rape? Yes, yes they do. This book will be detracting for some readers. It is dark and gritty and I couldn’t put it down until the last page. But I hope that this story gets read by all because it is so important to understand everything I mentioned above. This may be the best book McGinnis has written.
I highly recommend reading The Female of the Species if you aren’t adverse to heavy topics. Once you start, you won’t want to put it down until the end; and then you will wonder what it is that you just read. In a good way, of course....more
I’ve been holding on to this book for 6 long years. I remember walking into BAM, thinking that I’d browse and see about some cheapies. This book was dI’ve been holding on to this book for 6 long years. I remember walking into BAM, thinking that I’d browse and see about some cheapies. This book was displayed on a table at the front of the store, and the title and cover immediately got my attention. No matter how much I tried, I couldn’t bring myself to read it. Even when the world was talking about this book and the woman behind it. I knew that it would make me angry. I finally found the courage to read it, and I’m both happy and sad.
Happy because I learned a lot about this woman, Henrietta Lacks; or HeLa to the science community. Happy because of what her cells have done for decades. Happy because without her immortal cells, would there be all the advancements in science and medicine today? No, I don’t think so.
Sad because of what the Lacks family has been through, and didn’t find out until after 20 years, that their mother’s cells have been multiplied and sold, in the name of science. Sad because, if I read correctly, Henrietta contracted HPV- which caused her cervical cancer. And if she wasn’t the sleeping around type of woman, then she got it from her husband. Sad because her last words were for him to not let anything happen to thier kids. He failed. And completely sad because the Lacks family are receiving no monetary gain from the billion dollar industry that HeLa’s cells have boomed.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks is just some history on Henrietta and her family, about the insurmountable experiments that were done with her cells, and the unethical practices of doctors back during a time when black people had no voice to even protest against being violated. They were uneducated, so therefore didn’t know what they were being fed. I’m sure Johns Hopkins has been turning over in his grave since he died in 1873. His vision for that hospital didn’t go as planned. Instead, it was the complete opposite. I’m not surprised, because as I’ve gotten older and learned more Black History, nothing can ever make the wrongs right.
I like the friendship that was formed between the author and Deborah, Henrietta’s daughter. The way the she helped the family, as much as she could, try to get information about their mother’s cells. It was a hard journey. I cried on some parts about the injustice of it all. I cried for Deborah as a child and teen, because no one should go through what she did. I cried for Elsie, Henrietta’s oldest daughter who died a few years after her, in an insane asylum. She may have only been deaf, but was never diagnosed correctly. And as much as the author may want to evoke sympathy from the reader for Day, I have none. I give zero f**ks about that man. Yes, he was Henrietta’s husband and he lost her. But he failed her when he didn’t protect his daughter from a family predator. He stood by and watched silently. And he was a man-whore. I have no love for him.
This is a great book to read if you want to know some black history. What this woman’s cells have done, and continue to do, for the world is amazing. It’s sad that it took decades for her to be acknowledged for her contribution. Even if the consent was never given, they could at least have told the family sooner. Instead, doctors and scientists across the world utilized her cells and sold them by the vile. Now, billion dollar companies far and wide are making money while her family members can barely afford health coverage. The messed up world we live in.
I highly recommend reading this book. It’s real and I connected with the characters right from the start. If this book doesn’t make you feel upset about what HeLa and her family have been through, you are not human. It’s honest, sad, raw, funny (at times), and I am so glad that I finally read it.
I absolutely love this sequel! Okay, I have a few problems with this series so far, and I’m about to start book 7 this weekend. I had planned to combiI absolutely love this sequel! Okay, I have a few problems with this series so far, and I’m about to start book 7 this weekend. I had planned to combine my reviews for books 2-6, but it seemed rather messy in my head, so I called it quits.
This sequel started off with Cookie’s friend, Mimi, missing, and Charley is on the case. Oh, and there’s a dead guy riding around in Cookie’s trunk. Of course, she freaks out when Charley informs her of this little information. Charley calls Garrett in to do some digging on the previous owner of Cookie’s car, While she and Cook try to find Mimi. It becomes pretty clear right off that something fishy is definitely going down, and it involves Mimi’s past. All kinds of stuff happens when Charley is involved. Now, one Reyes “hot-as-sin” Farrow is being tortured by demons who want the portal. That portal being Charley.
I love trying to solve these cases that Charley and Cookie get. I’m on the edge of my seat, screaming at Charley when she almost gets herself killed time and time again. Since I’ve caught up on these books, I’m learning more about Charley as a reaper. Still, she manages to get all messed up in each book. What good is her character if she can’t do cool stuff? Not just in spurts, I’m talking all the time. She showed her power at the end of this book, and pissed Reyes off in the process. I want her to go full disco ball and kick butt on people!
The way that Reyes withholds information from Charley gets on my nerves. I understand that she must figure it out on her own, blah blah blah, but Charley is kind of dumb. Well, maybe not so much dumb as she is silly. She thinks everything is funny. I’m sorry, but I just don’t find myself laughing at anything she says. Since I’m reading these like crazy, hopefully she will meet my expectations by the next book. I’m gonna jump ahead and say that book 6 is my favorite. That cliffhanger, though! Arrgh!
READ THIS SERIES EVERYONE. No matter the little things that irk me, I can’t get enough of Reyes, Garrett, Charley, Cookie, Amber, Ubie – the whole gang!...more
Why? Why has it taken me this long to start this series?!!!! I could kick myself for not starting this Originally posted over at Lekeisha The Booknerd
Why? Why has it taken me this long to start this series?!!!! I could kick myself for not starting this sooner, but I guess now is better than never. Upon first introduction, Charley comes across as a little sarcastic, ghost seeing chick who runs a PI firm. Some of her not-so-funny thoughts and comebacks left me wondering just what the author is aiming for in terms of Charley’s personality. Not everything she thinks and says is funny. I wanted to delve deeper into her character because, well, she came off as one of those offensive comedians. You know, the ones that crack jokes at the expense of others just to get a laugh. Still, I didn’t let that stop me from going gaga over this book. Holy S**t, son of satan, where have you been all my life?!
If you are looking for a grim reaper that kicks butt and forces people to the other side, that’s not exactly the case here. Charley, is more of a case solver. Well, at least in this first book she is. And a big chunk of her history is revealed, but I imagine as the books go on there will be more bombs dropped. She does usher the spirits that linger to cross over – even going so far as to trick some of them. I liked that they could pass through her to get there. I also loved the relationship she has with her uncle Bob. I have to wonder if he loves her so much because she helps him solve cases and looks like the hero to his fellow cops. Not a big deal, either way. Garrett….holy hotness. I love the banter between him and Charley, and I wonder if something more will come out of it. Surely, if Reyes has anything to say about it, there won’t be! F**k, I just can’t get over what/who he is! I hope to get more backstory on him as the books go on. Cookie, Charley’s best friend and assistant, is hilarious. I love how concerned she gets about Charley doing dangerous things and almost getting herself killed everyday.
Aside from annoyance at first meet, I like Charley. I love how she gets info from the dead and uses it for good. She’s not about to let the wrong person get locked up for a crime they didn’t commit. I felt so bad for her at the end, when she received that news. That totally sucked. I hate her stepmother. Yes, I said it. HATE HER. I kinda wish Charley had let Big Bad sever her spine. Who the hell slaps a 5 year old?!! That’s f***ing child abuse! And can we talk about the sexy times? Yeah, total ovary explosion, and it wasn’t even that descriptive. If an author can make you want a being like Reyes to visit your dreams, she’s darn good. I highly recommend this book!...more
My full thoughts will come next week, on the blog. This book is everything that I was told it would be. Although If irked me sometimes with her rash dMy full thoughts will come next week, on the blog. This book is everything that I was told it would be. Although If irked me sometimes with her rash decisions and her feelings of entitlement when it came to relationships (especially Obi), I loved being inside her head. I love her views of Americans (all of them), but I love how in the end it all was the same. Politics, race, religion, class, sex, and everything else under the sun, will always affect how a person is treated in this country and the next. Full review to come....more
Calling all women’s fiction lovers!! Terry McMillan’s latest novel is not to be missed. It’s the perfecOriginally posted over at Lekeisha the Booknerd
Calling all women’s fiction lovers!! Terry McMillan’s latest novel is not to be missed. It’s the perfect summer read to add to your beach bag.
The thing I love most about this novel is the genuineness. There is no sugarcoating Georgia’s reflections about her life, and the things she’s done. Okay, that sounds ominous. She’s not a serial killer or anything like that. What I mean is, her past relationships and how she’s matured over the years, her career, her friends, family, etc… I think the most engaging thing about women’s fiction is the wisdom of the protagonists. I also love the reflections they experience. And, yes, sometimes those reflections lead to regrets. I related to her somewhat on one aspect of her life, so I was really into this story.
Dr. Georgia Young is a successful optometrist, who is twice divorced and is in need of a change. That need only intensifies as she learns that her college love, Ray, has passed away. She starts reflecting on all the men she’s loved throughout her life, and she’s thankful for all that she learned from that relationship. She decides to track them all down and just let them know how much she treasures what they all gave her during their time together. So thus begins the road to self discovery, and there are plenty potholes along the way. As Georgia recalls how she met each one, you can see why she fell in love with him, or why she broke it off. There are lots of laugh-out-loud moments to get through, so this is not a “woe is me” fest. I loved getting to know Georgia and her history. I love the romantic ending; which felt like a younger Georgia falling in love all over again. *sighs*
I love the minor characters, Wanda and Violet. It’s so refreshing to have these 3 ladies still friends for decades. Even those friendships haven’t been all rainbows and sunshine, which really makes this story so much more real. Again, there’s no sugarcoating. I connected with Wanda more, as she was more present. When you are looking for a change in your life, your best friend always has to set you up on blind dates. I also love Georgia’s mom, Earlene. The woman is 81 and still getting around better than some young people. I liked that there was a class reunion, even though it was a little cliche’ with this being women’s fiction. What I loved most about that particular part of the story is the way Georgia didn’t let the snobs get to her. Her mom insisted that she take a date, but Georgia doesn’t really care what her classmates think of her. After 40 years, a lot has changed for everyone. Amidst all the face lift, economy, marriage, divorce, kids/grandkids, death, career talk, Georgia came out a more better person than when she first arrived. The pop culture references also gave this story flare. Georgia’s kept up with the times, in terms of indulging in popular crime shows (I love me some Detective Goren) and knowing the slang of today’s youth (God, help us all). All of that really made this story feel so sentimental, even if you aren’t hip to what’s hot and what’s not. Most of all, it really showed Georgia’s growth; her past, present, and future. Which looks pretty bright to me.
Terry McMillan did an excellent job bringing Georgia to life. I’m still thinking about some of my favorite scenes, and smiling as I type this. If you are into women’s fiction, or if you’re looking to make some changes in your life, I think this book will introduce you to some possibilities on which directions to take and avoid. The journey wasn’t all great, there were bumps along the way. Georgia is a character that I truly enjoyed reading about and I’m glad to have read this. I have no doubt that this will make my top 10 favorites list in December. I highly recommend this book!...more
*snorts* Saiman is just full of himself. I always knew he'd do anything for information, but this takes the cake. He's lucky Kate didn't let the volhv*snorts* Saiman is just full of himself. I always knew he'd do anything for information, but this takes the cake. He's lucky Kate didn't let the volhvs tear him apart....more
This novella packs quite the punch. Or, I may be biased because I love this world and these characters. I never knew just how much darkness is inside Derek. I mean, we’ve gotten some of his history from Kate’s POV in previous books, but to actually be inside his head is something. And this is only a fraction of it! I really enjoyed this, and wish that it had been longer. If Ilona Andrews is trying to sell me this spin-off, I’m down.
As you know, Derek is no longer with the Pack. He’s a lone wolf in that respect, but he’s not alone really. He has Kate, Curran, and Julie. He hero worships Curran, Kate is like a bossy older sister, and I’m just not sure what to make of his relationship with Julie. She used to be viewed as a little sister, but she’s growing into an amazing young woman and…..boy it’s gonna be hard to keep thinking of her as his sister. Derek and Julie end up working together when they come across a murdered family and the ones who killed them. There’s a magic rock to be had, and an evil warlock is keen on getting and using it by any means necessary. This novella is a glimpse into Derek’s darkness, and Julie’s growing power. I really enjoyed it, but want more.
Julie is also spending time with Roland, Kate’s all powerful Father, and it has me on edge. Julie tries to explain why she’s doing it to Derek, but I feel like Roland is aware of her motives and is really messing up her head. Julie has no idea what she’s getting into. Or does she? Only time will tell, and I just hope Roland doesn’t turn her against Kate. That would be bad. She shares the blood, so if Julie becomes a weapon and sides with Roland, Kate doesn’t stand a chance. Julie is also training with the witches, so I just don’t know where all this is heading. I’m scared, guys!
Overall, great novella. Derek and Julie kick butt and save the day. I am just ready for the next book, and if this is to become another series, I’m looking forward to that one as well. If you are a fan of this series, then I think reading this would be beneficial. Especially, if you love Derek and want to know what his struggles are, and take a peak at his thoughts on Julie and their friendship. I love their banter, although Derek pisses her off on purpose because he has to draw a line between them. I’m pretty sure he won’t be able to keep that line between them for long. Julie is not that scared little girl we first me in Magic Burns anymore. Definitely recommend reading this one!...more
The thing I love about this series the most, aside from Kate and Curran, is the mythology. I love how AOriginally posted over at Lekeisha The Booknerd
The thing I love about this series the most, aside from Kate and Curran, is the mythology. I love how Andrews takes something that we’ve read about in other books, and spins a different take on it all. This installment is focused on Arabian Mythology – mainly djinn and ghouls. It’s so refreshing and it’s very detailed to the point that I couldn’t give a crap if it was real or not. If some ghouls rolled up right now and caused a racket, I’d turn on my inner Kate Daniels and kick butt. And then I’d tell the dead carcasses that Ilona Andrews told me how to kill them. Seriously, this was all sorts of cool. And if a djinn ever wants to grant me three wishes, I’d tell him to take a hike.
We are dealing with Kate, Curran, and Julie living in the suburbs. I love the domesticity, but we all know there are creatures that go bump in the night. Kate and Curran still run Cutting Edge, so they have jobs to do. George comes to them for help to find Eduardo, because the Pack won’t help. It’s all bloody fights with giants, ghouls, big-as-all-hell ticks, and a djinn with an ax to grind. Of course, Mahon forbids George to marry Eduardo because he’s not a bear. *rolls eyes* I just can’t get over his outdated notions. He is a master manipulator, and I’m so glad that Curran figured him out a long time ago. Truth be told, the final straw for Curran was in Magic Bleeds, when he was in a coma and Mahon didn’t stand up for Kate when she battled her way through Pack challenges to remain by his side. I’ve never liked Mahon because of his mindset. He needs to stop with the bigotry and start living in the present. You can’t tell someone they can only love, marry, and have kids by someone of the same species. I’m surprised Martha is still with him.
Aside from the Eduardo issue, Kate deals with her father. I’m not sure where all this is going, but he almost makes me want to like him. But then, he’s being too kind for my tastes. Julie is also becoming her own little person. She’ll be a woman soon, and Curran may be breaking a few necks to fend off the boys that are sure to come knocking. Reality sets in for Kate. She is not indestructible. She can die with the best of them. But Julie’s and Curran’s pain through Kate’s voice almost made me tear up. It was just shocking for me because she always bounces back. Derek, Barabas, Christopher, and others are here. Does it surprise anyone with the living arrangements? Not me. I actually laughed because I saw it all coming. I’m ready to see what Curran does with the Mercs. They need a swift kick up the butt. So does the Order.
A lot of messy fights went down, and this installment wrapped nicely. I’m looking forward to the next book, but I’m just hoping to live through the rest of the series. Roland’s presence is starting to make me paranoid. I can’t recommend this series enough. It took me only a few hours to read this book, that’s how engrossed I was. This whole series is addicting, so I am sure I’ll have every book on my shelf by the Summer, to do a reread. It is, hands down, my favorite series. ...more
Have you ever loved a character so much, that it physically pains you if something happens to them? I fOriginally posted over at Lekeisha The Booknerd
Have you ever loved a character so much, that it physically pains you if something happens to them? I felt that the whole time reading this, I think. I was scared for Kate because there was too much going on and not enough pages to make me hopeful of a good outcome. The moment has arrived to meet the man behind it all, and I thought I would s**t bricks. Pardon my French, but it’s the truth. I can only imagine what Kate felt like. First, she had to deal with Hugh and whomever his spy was at the Keep. Was I surprised? Hell, yes! I mean, I knew that character held a grudge, but I didn’t think it would be like that. A lot of stuff went down in this installment. From the moment they stepped into Bernard’s, until the very end; Kate and Company were fighting battle after battle. Some characters felt they were owed explanations about Kate. Some wanted to be in charge. But nothing prepared me for the moment when everything changed. I was “holy-s**tting” with every turn of the page. And “did-that-just-happen” came out of my mouth a lot. Kate is that kick-butt heroine you want with you in a dark alley. She’s powerful and will make you wish you’d never stepped to her. The question is now, do you trust Roland?
Roland. The man we have been conditioned to hate since book one. He’s not at all what I expected. I take that back. His demeanor isn’t what I expected; he’s still the all-powerful being that we’ve read so much about. I just was looking for an epic battle, but what I got surprised me. The writing team that is Ilona Andrews are very meticulous when it comes to this series. I have no doubt in my mind that they are planning something that may stop our hearts soon. Mark my words. Even so, I’m ready for my heart to stop. Not really, but you get my point. I loved everything about this book. Characters from previous books make appearances, and not all ends well. Desandra is showing all what she can do. She’s not that same girl from Magic Rises that we know. This chick has fought her way to the top of Clan Wolf. She has Jennifer spooked! I freaking love Desandra in this book. There are no words for the things that come out of her mouth. Curran and Kate make a big step at the end that I wasn’t at all surprised about. It was expected and I’m ready for the next chapter. Sometimes you just have to say f**k it and go with what life throws at you. They are my favorite couple to sit down with, because those two get each other like no couple before them. Curran knows the fury that’s inside Kate. Kate knows the beast inside Curran. I just hope they both make it to the finish line together.
Loading...
