SOS: Serious Overload of Series discussion
Archive: Past Team Challenges
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R12: Team #2 ~ Read or PAIRish
Shelf #5 ~ 12 Aug: DemonsDirect Link: https://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/...
I'm going to read
Happy Reading, Team!
I think I'll read
- although the later books in the series seem to be shelved as 'demons' more frequently, I haven't read any of them so I hope its OK if I start at the beginning?
I checked, NancyHelen, it's shelved as 'demons' by 50 people :)yay b/c I LOVE that series and hope you do too!
Thank you! I really don't like reading series out of order...I've heard much about it, so I am really looking forward to it!
Oh me neither! :D Can't wait to hear what you think of it. They only get better w/each book, IMO.
That series definitely needs to be read in order NancyHelen, enjoy!
My pick for this week is Night Owls. Thanks to the two people who shelved it under "Demons" :)
Oh, I have that too. I'll be interested to hear your thoughts on it, Vivian.
Sorry for the absence guys! School and work has been kicking my backside lately, but it's finally Friday and I can drop by for a bit! Review for Series Catchup coming later tonight! Gotta get that stamp!!
Enjoy the weekend, Mel!
Thanks Steph! I gotta go do some research though, so we'll see how much of it I actually get to enjoy...
NancyHelen, you are a life saver! Here I thought I was behind, when I'm actually on top of it! Thanks for keeping track!
Hi team, hope everyone enjoyed their weekend! I finished my book, will review tomorrow. It's been a tiring weekend though I didn't really do much, must be the hot weather.I have been wanting to re-read Dresden forever now! Since the next one isn't out until next May, I'm hoping to re-read the series before then. After 15 books, there's a lot of stuff I'm not remembering lol.
~JustMel~ wrote: "NancyHelen, you are a life saver! Here I thought I was behind, when I'm actually on top of it! Thanks for keeping track!"Nope, I think the only person behind is me! I am planning on getting both my books finished before the next round. I am loving
but I accidentally started
and I'm hooked. I think I might need to finish that one first...
LOL NancyHelen :)Will post my review shortly. Hope everyone had a good weekend!
Series: Dark Elements #3
Shelf: Demons
Read: 15 Aug
Rating: ✮✮✮☆☆
Review:
Every Last Breath is the finale to Jennifer Armentrout's Dark Elements trilogy. It's a unique mix of gargoyles, which are called Wardens, and demons. The biggest downfall for me was the love triangle, commonly seen in YA series these days. But, as with most lit love triangles and my biggest reason for disliking them, I liked both of the boys in Layla's life, so I stuck with the series anyway.
The first book, White Hot Kiss, introduced us to Layla, the Wardens in her life, including Zayne, who she secretly loves and Roth, the demon Prince, who immediately captures her interest. In the second, Stone Cold Touch, distraught over the events in book one, Layla returns home and to Zayne who surprises her by opening up and sharing his feelings. The final book, Every Last Breath was to not only wrap up the story of how the Wardens and demons would work together to destroy the Lilin - "deadliest of demons" - but also, finally, determine which of these two love interests Layla would choose.
Imagine my dismay when I learned the author did not make this choice. Nope. She left it up to her readers. Late last year, Armentrout posted on her blog, "... I’m still not sure which guy I like better for Layla."
"Zayne’s the one she grew up crushing on, the one she never thought could love her back, but things are changing between them and dreams that once seemed impossible might finally be within her reach. And Roth—oh, Roth. He’s the bad boy she never knew she wanted and now can’t stop thinking about, and he’s gone to incredible lengths to prove the depths of his feelings for her.Uh, yeah, that's why YOU, the one who created the triangle in the first place, should have some idea of where the story was going and who she would ultimately end up with, right??
You can see why I might have a hard time choosing which of these guys will end up with Layla."
The decision ... "the folks at Harlequin TEEN and I decided there’s only one solution - We’re going to do something I don’t think has ever done before. We’re going to leave Layla’s choice in YOUR hands."
From there, she did write an ending of her choice based on the decision of the readers. Odd. Honestly, I'm stuck between thinking maybe this is a unique create-your-own-adventure way to handle a love triangle and a cop-out. Either way, it's done now and the choice was made, albeit in an unconventional manner.
Overall, I ended the series with the same feelings I had when I started it - not great, not bad, some typical YA elements, an entertaining read that blended two supernatural creatures I enjoy.
Shelf: Demons
Date finished: Aug 16
Rating: 3 stars
Night Owls. What do I want to say about you? It took me a few days to get into the book, reading a chapter here and there. I think it's because it is told from a rotating third person point of view which initially kept me from really immersing myself into the story.
There are two "main" characters in this ensemble cast. Elly is a young girl trying to protect a book her mentor died for, Val runs a bookstore while trying to live a low key existence away from the drama of the supernatural world. Their paths cross and with an odd assortment of characters, they work together to fight off the jackals and save a bookstore employee. I like that while Elly and Val have a rocky start to their relationship, it didn't turn into unnecessary drama. Lack of stupidity yay!
While there is a full story with resolution and some fairly fleshed out characters, I feel like this is closer to a prequel than a full book. It's like a teaser into the world but you gotta keep reading to find out more. My biggest issue is probably the lack of information. There is a world rich with different creatures: vampires and their Renfields, jackals (supposedly werewolf like creatures but I totally didn't see it), humans who can work magic. And lesbian succubi thrown in for kicks. It's all interesting but so many things are never explained and if you're going to make the jackals the villains, you gotta give me a little history.
I see potential and I am interested in reading more of this series(trilogy?). There are many loose threads and unanswered questions (view spoiler) that will hopefully be addressed in book 2.
Steph wrote: "the folks at Harlequin TEEN and I decided there’s only one solution - We’re going to do something I don’t think has ever done before. We’re going to leave Layla’s choice in YOUR hands."I remember hearing about that at some point. My first thought is marketing strategy but I'm not sure it is a way to convince me to pick up the trilogy.
And I agree, I would think the author has an idea of who she wants the character to end up with. Stick with your choice or change it, you'll make some people unhappy either way.
Shelf: Demons
by Darynda JonesRead: 18 Aug
Rating: 4*
I wasn't sure what I was expecting with the start of this series, but whatever my expectations, I really liked it. I thought Charley Davidson was the kind of kick-ass, funny, sassy heroine that I just love and there was just the right amount of humour, romance and plot to make the book a great read. I loved the whole concept of Charley being able to talk to the dead. I think one of the funniest parts was when the dead lawyer, Elizabeth, was sitting between Charley and Garrett (although the latter didn't know) and making comments - I could just picture it. I also loved how Charley would talk into her phone so she wouldn't look like a complete nutter talking to thin air. I must admit, the book lost me a bit at the end when we found out all about Reyes, but I have heard that this series just gets better and better, so it must be pretty good.
I have Night Owls TBR, but keep skipping over it. Maybe one day. Yeah, I agree - author knew, or had to know, going in that readers would favor one dude over the other. I expected her to have a plan. Still not sure how I feel about the whole thing, but definitely a different way to handle the resolution/choice.Glad you liked Charley, NancyHelen! IMO, it definitely gets better w/each installment. I can't get enough!
Our next shelf is up!
Shelf #6 ~ 19 Aug: Dark & Stormy
Read a book: featuring 'DARK' or 'STORM' (or any variation of either ~ IE: stormy, darkness, etc) in title, series or author name or a black or grey cover
I've been holding onto
for this shelf, so that's what I'll be reading. :)
That works perfectly! I was in a charity shop yesterday and there on the shelf was a beautiful box-set of the first 10 books of the Sookie Stackhouse series for the bargain price of £8! So I'm going to read the first one which is
:-)
Wow! Great deal! Hope you enjoy some Sookie. :)
Man I've yet to start reading those!! There just sitting on my bookshelf gathering dust...
NancyHelen - that's an awesome deal! It's a fun series :)Steph - Night Owls is fine but you aren't missing out on too much. BTW, having you as a teammate is great, I never miss a shelf announcement lol! Now off to find a book. It's like going on a treasure hunt.
Dark & Stormy pick: Bitten
After the talk about the tv show, I'm finally diving in!
LOL! ;)Hope enjoy the book. I'll be interested to hear how you think it compares to the show.
Series: Allie Beckstrom #4
Shelf: Dark & Stormy
Read: 20 Aug
Rating: ✮✮✮✮☆
Review:
When Magic on the Storm opens, two months have passed since Magic in the Shadows and things are unusually calm in Allie's life. She's made a big decision, one that will change her life, and she's happy. The only pain she's feeling is the result of rigorous magical and physical training. She's also seeing a more relaxed Zayvion, who's smiling and laughing more. But, this peace, this calm cannot last forever ...
"There's a storm coming ... Wild magic ... And it's aiming straight for the city."Portland is in danger, once again. Things didn't go so well for Allie the last time she faced down a wild, magical storm - she lost a lot. This time, the Authority has called in other members, outside of Portland, to help. The hope is that this larger group of Authority members can somehow filter the magic from the storm so that it doesn't obliterate everyone and everything.
There was so much of my past that I'd lost - memories magic had taken away from me - moments I wished I could have back. It was odd to hear someone choose not to remember.One of those called in is Terric Conley, who has history with Zay and Shame. And, after learning the bits that I did, I'm super anxious to get to Monk's spin-off series, Broken Magic, that features Terric and Shame. There's much more to learn about them still and I can't wait. We also learn a bit more about Zay's past though he continues to remain rather tight-lipped about just about everything.
I'm enjoying this series SO much! The action keeps you on the edge of your seat, the side characters are endearing, and the splash of romance doesn't hurt one bit. I seem to fly through each installment no matter how slowly I try to read them. Thankfully, I still have five installments remaining + the two spin-off installments. This one ended in a bit of a cliffhanger, so I'm jumping straight into #5, Magic at the Gate, next!
So I'm definitely behind now, but I'm hurrying to catch up. Here's my pick for the Dark and Stormy shelf:
I've just got back from my Hen weekend. I had the most amazing time, even if I am still recovering (I don't have nearly as much stamina as I did in my 20s and 30s!!)I will do my very best to get caught up by Wednesday. My two books are absolute priority now.
Anxious to hear your thoughts on that one, Mel. I've got it TBR and enjoy some of her other series. LOL NancyHelen! I hear ya! :D
JustMel - I've heard some mixed reviews on that one, looking forward to your thoughts.NancyHelen - sounds like a fantastic weekend and I understand what you mean about recovery and I'm sure my weekend was MUCH tamer than yours. I spent a weekend out of town for a friend's birthday and I was a zombie yesterday. We basically spent our weekend in a pool but even having a drink with each meal for 2 days straight is way more than my body can handle. On the plus side, my legs are now a closer match to my arms in color lol (and yes, lots of sunscreen was used).
I'm slowly getting into Bitten, so far it does seem like the show followed the story pretty closely. I'm enjoying it, just haven't had much time to read.
Steph - I'm going to have to pick up Magic to the Bone at some point if just to see whether or not I've actually read it before lol. It sounds like a series I would like. Glad you're enjoying the books!
Sounds like a fun weekend, ladies! I glow in the dark I'm so pale. My only "suntan" is when my freckles merge together. :DLOL! Maybe read the sample @ Amazon to see if it sounds familiar - or library rental, just in case. ;) Thanks, I'm loving 'um - just can't stop - I'm on #6 now.
Shelf #4 - Series Catch up
by Laini TaylorRead: 25 August
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆
I have been starting so many new series recently, it was really good to move on to the next book in one of the series that I started and this book was just fantastic. I thoroughly enjoyed the first one, but the way the story has developed in this second book is captivating. Of course, I had hoped the love affair between Akiva and Karou would continue, but actually, I think the fact that it hasn't so far and that Karou was so dedicated and committed to the chimera was fabulous. There were definitely times when I was wondering how on earth this was ever going to turn out? When two races are fighting with such violence, what could ever happen to stop it? I always think that one mark of a good book is just how bad the 'bad guys' really are, and the ones in this book were positively evil. Thiago in particular!
The ending was just brilliant and I think this is the first time in my life that I could easily have logged on to Amazon and immediately purchased the next book so I could have kept reading. Fortunately (or unfortunately) it was well after midnight when I finished so I made myself turn out the light and go to sleep!
I really enjoyed listening to that series, NancyHelen. It's very unique and, as you said, captivating. :)Shelf's up!
Urban Fantasy ~ Direct Link: https://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/...
I'll probably read the Kitty Norville finale:
Finished Bitten, moving on to
for Urban Fantasy shelf. Review most likely to come tomorrow.I just looked at the Kitty books last week and saw the series finished! I think I left off around book 10, looking forward to hearing your thoughts Steph. Yet another series to get back into.
Loved Daughter of Smoke and Bone but for some reason couldn't get into book 2, I always think about reading it but never do.
I have never read Dresden. Hubby is current with the series though. I did watch the show while it was on. Oh yeah, this shelf works great for you to keep going with that series, Vivian. :)
I started Kitty late - read 1/2 in 2011, 1/2 in 2012, then stayed current from #10 on. I'm interested to see how it'll all wrap up.
Have you tried listening to the audio of Smoke & Bone, Vivian? I didn't read any of the books, I listened to them all and really enjoyed them. The narration is well done, IMO. Zuzana was my favorite.
CONGRATULATIONS, Read or PAIRish!We now have an updated BINGO card with a stamp on 'series catch-up'.
[Our updated BINGO card can be viewed on page 1]
Yay!! :D
Congrats on the stamp Read or Pairish!
:) Thank ya, ma'am!
Yay Stamp!I read Daughter of Smoke and Bone and I think I listened to the audio as well before trying book 2 for the first time. Most of my audiobooks tend to be re-reads. I will get to it eventually, there are just too many books and I kinda got over the YA thing.
Stolen should be fun, I think I'll enjoy this series :)
Dresden is awesome! A lot of people love the audiobooks (James Marsters does them) and I originally thought he was a little too slow and a bit monotone but gave Storm Front a try again Marsters is definitely growing on me. The plan is now to listen to the whole series, though that might take a really long time...
The tv show was fun too. Different than the books but I enjoyed them, was sad it ended after one season.
So I finally finished paper number 2 in as many weeks AND finally finished Storm Front... I'll post the review before I head off to bed. Then I can finally move on to Darkness Awakened. I'm looking forward to reading that one. Hopefully I won't interrupted as much... Wishful thinking maybe... *le sigh*
Shelf: Demons
Date Finished: 8/26/15
Rating: 5/5 STARS
Excellent read!!! Mr. Butcher had me equal parts shocked and excited. This story was very well written and had me hooked from page 1. Harry Dresden is quite the character. He's funny and sarcastic, yet extremely loyal and kind. And very helpful. He's the type of character that you can immediately get behind and feel right along with. I couldn't help but be outraged at Morgan for his single-mindedness, sad at the outcome of his fallout with Murphy... And very triumphant and pleasantly surprised at the ending. I'm definitely looking forward to reading book 2. I wonder if Morgan will find a reason to come poking around again...
My pick for Urban Fantasy. I've been meaning to read this one for quite some time now... Taking down that TBR pile... :)
JustMel - glad you enjoyed Storm Front! Honestly, this is probably one of the weakest of the series and the books just get better and better:)
SOS: Serious Overload of Series
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And, thanks again! :D