SOS: Serious Overload of Series discussion
Archive: Past Team Challenges
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R21: Team #11 ~ Double Serial Slayers
Rosina wrote: "I am really enjoying Clean SweepVictoria I am going to swap out my Free Read with Sweep in Peace..."
No problem! I'm so happy you are enjoying Clean Sweep!!! :D :D
Completion PostWeek 4 - Magic/Magic Users
Book: Signs of Cupidity by Raven Kennedy
Pages: 256
Read: 01/03/2022
Rating: 3,5*
Review:
Worldbuilding:
In hindsight, we actually know a lot less about the world than I thought we did :D And to be very honest, it didn't matter. We knew enough to follow along, first in the human realm and then learning alongside our heroine in the fae realm. All scenes were well written and clear enough to immerse into the story fully.
Character development:
Our heroine Cupid number ML (thousand and fifty) is a tad sick and tired of spreading love and lust and not getting any herself. She has nobody to talk to as she is very... incorporeal, living behind the Veil. Things change for her rather drastically when she gets reassigned to the fae realm. From the start till 3/4 of the story, I loved her. I mean, her inner dialogue was funny. It had me facepalming and laughing out loud so often. Until it got a bit much :( We know a bit of her past, what she has done during the years of being a cupid, we know she longs for love and touch, but apart from that, she feels a bit superficial.
Onwards to the men, Ronak, Evert and Sylred, our banished fae men. I like them, they're diverse, not easily persuaded by a nice looking female (or at least... not all of them), and they are focused on their survival.
The characters in this book feel decently real and believable. Though I feel like we've only scratched the barest surface. I wanted to know a lot more about everyone, but hey, I guess that's why it's a series :)
Pacing and flow:
I read the book in one sitting, so I would say that the pacing and the flow were good. There was enough action to keep me entertained (alas, not that kind of action) and a good balance with all the talking to keep the story moving forward smoothly.
The book:
The book is well written with no (noticeable) errors. While it does say it's a slow burn, it's like.... suuuuuper slow burn. We had one kiss, ladies and gentlemen!
The book has 256 pages, spread over 29 chapters, told from our heroine's point of view.
Final thoughts:
It started fun and very entertaining, but around the 3/4 mark, it got a bit too much on the inner dialogue and too little on the romance... but, who knows, it might get better in the next instalment, which I, of course, will read :D
Completion PostWeek 3 - Favorite Couples
Book: Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead
Pages: 489
Read: 28/02/2022
Rating: 3,5*
Review:
I tried reading this book once before but didn't get far before giving up. This time though, I stuck to my guns, even though it took me a long time to get through it... Why? Even after finishing the book, I have no idea. But oh well, one more book to go!
Worldbuilding:
Rose is back at St Vladimir's and about to do her trials and graduate (if they let her) together with Lissa, Christian, Adrian and more of their friends (and frenemies). The story starts with a bang, we move around a lot during the whole book, but there was never too much info or a lack of details. Very well written!
Character development:
She has changed so much over the series, and while she still is very headstrong and does the most impulsive (and absolutely not thought-through) things, she's still in one piece. Well, ish... since her heart has broken and every time she thinks of Dimitri, it breaks a little more. To be honest, being in a sort of relationship with Adrian is pretty confusing, but she's trying to move on.
Dimitri, once a dhampir and now a strigoi, is hunting Rose. She denied him, and now he wants to kill the one person he feels can destroy him.
Characters feel alive and real. They all have their own stories, broken hearts, hopes and dreams. They have their flaws, but also moments where they shine and try to beat the odds that really aren't stacked in their favour.
Pacing and flow:
As I've said earlier, the book starts with a bang and to be honest, it doesn't slow down. You get dragged from one situation into another because Rose doesn't think before acting. Which can be a good orrrr a horrible thing :D Outstanding balance between all the action and the conversations.
The book:
The book was well written with no (noticeable) errors. There is some sexual content, though no actual sex described (if that is important to you).
The book has 489 pages, spread over 27 chapters and told from Rose's point of view.
Final thoughts:
I have no clue why I had such issues with reading the book because it was a good book, so I'm going to say it's me :D
With one book to go in this series, I will surely finish it! Though when is a whole other question :)
I finally caught up a bit, yay! Now I'll get started on my Free space and read the next shelf straight after.Oh and thanks for all the reviews! I have requested the stamp for week 3! :D
Completion Post Week 4 - Magic/Magic Users
Clean Sweep by Ilona Andrews
Magic - 574 tags
Pages: 235
Read: March 3 2022
Rating: 5 stars
Review: I really enjoyed this story. The writing is so well done. i liked the idea of vampires and werewolfs from space. A different take on their powers and how they were formed. Dina is a great character. i think the best character of all was the inn. The incident in Costco had me lol. A short quick read but so worth it.
Selection PostWeek 5 - Shifter/Shifters
Blameless by Gail Carriger- 355 pages
Marked 91 times as shifters
I'm enjoying my book. So many series on the go, it's crazy how I can go years between books.
Allison Ann wrote: "I'm enjoying my book. So many series on the go, it's crazy how I can go years between books."Yep! I've noticed that too, and when you read one of the books, you're like, 'why haven't I read this so much sooner' :D
My reading plan (a continuation of last year) is re-reading my favourite series and catching up on the books I haven't read yet. Such gems!
So many good books, not enough time!
Completion PostWeek Five
Shelf: Shifter/Shifters
Book:
Blameless by Gail CarrigerHow it Fits: Marked 91 times as shifters
Read: 3/05/22
Pages: 355
Rating: 3 stars
Review: These are enjoyable books that I always forget about when I'm not reading one. The humour is the main attraction, because there honestly isn't much of a storyline. This one had a very abrupt ending also. I assumed I was about 3/4 through the book and then suddenly it was just over.
CONGRATULATIONS, Double Serial Slayers!You now have an updated BINGO card with a stamp on 'favorite couples' and 'magic/users'.
[Your updated BINGO card can be viewed on page 1]
Good Job!! :D
Thanks Steph. Well, our card is kind of all over the place, though FREE SPACE will give us 3 in a row.
Congratulations on the stamps SS!
checking in....I should be done my free space read tomorrow....week kinda got away from me....I noticed a team is1 shelf away from bingo....they need Vampires
could be a quick game or else a bunch are speed reading in 5 weeks time for a win
Completion Post - Free Space
Sweep in Peace by Ilona Andrews
How it fits: Option 3 found on SOS bookshelf.
Read: March 9 2022
Pages: 315
Rating: 5 stars
Review: Oh my gosh what a good book. One thing that stood out to me was the description of items and the colors when decorating the rooms in the Inn. Dina decides to host a peace summit between Space Vampires, the Hope-Crushing Horde, and the devious Merchants of Baha-char. She is holding the summit so that she can save and revive the Inn. I really enjoyed reading about these 3 different species. Another character I really liked was the Chef, Orro and I was glad to see Sean again. Looking forward to #3.
Selection PostWeek 5 - Shifter/Shifters
One Fell Sweep by Ilona Andrews
340 pages
Marked 113 times as shifters
So Urban Fantasy this week. I was hoping to double up on books, because I have a busy week ahead of me. Of course I don't have a #6 in series for any of my UF series. Probably the only number I'm not good with. Figures. So, I will decide later what to read. I'm going to pick something that grabs my interest. I'll let you know.
Allison Ann wrote: "So Urban Fantasy this week. I was hoping to double up on books, because I have a busy week ahead of me. Of course I don't have a #6 in series for any of my UF series. Probably the only number I'm n..."which other challenge are you working on?
Shelf #6 ~ 9 Mar 22: Urban FantasyDIRECT LINK - Urban Fantasy (+ SOS' UF & SOS' UF w/romantic elements)
Happy reading all :)
I've finished my free space one earlier this week, but haven't had the time to actually write the review.... to be continued!
Rosina wrote: "Allison Ann wrote: "So Urban Fantasy this week. I was hoping to double up on books, because I have a busy week ahead of me. Of course I don't have a #6 in series for any of my UF series. Probably t..."SS over in The Challenge Factory and Cozy Mystery Bingo. I skipped UNO this year, just too busy.
Sorry I didn't post my selection, but I'm done now, so .... :DCompletion Post
Week Six
Shelf: Urban Fantasy
Book:
The Visitor by Amanda StevensHow it Fits: Marked 63 times as urban-fantasy
Read: 3/12/22
Pages: 384
Rating: 4 stars
Review: As per usual, everything about these books is great, except the "romance". When the MC spends much of her time thinking about how her lover is hiding things from her, how he doesn't believe her abilities, how he constantly negates things she believes and sees, how he is so much better looking and therefore better than her, and what could he possibly see in her, yadda yadda yadda. That is not love. I'm glad the sex is mindblowing and all, but that sweetpea, is an abusive relationship and I never want to read about that. The man got unhaunted and he's still a dick. The mystery was gripping. Amelia's increase in powers is fascinating, can't wait to see where it goes. Just no to Devlin.
Completion PostWeek 0 - Free Space
Book: Smoke Bitten by Patricia Briggs
Pages: 352
Read: 05/03/2022
Rating: 5*
Review:
Worldbuilding:
A killer bunny (I love Monthy Python, so this had me laughing so much :D), a rogue pack making things complicated and problems in paradise. Yep, all the ingredients to make another great book :D All scenes and environments had a great amount of details, perfect to just let go and enjoy the story.
Character development:
Mercy and Adam have been through a lot, their bond not as solid or open as it should be. So when Mercy notices that it's actually pretty much closed off, she knows something is wrong with Adam, but he's not sharing why... at all.
That, coupled with the current issue they are facing, is really doing a number on her. This instalment dives a bit deeper into how Mercy is feeling about it all, and I'm happy the author took the time to do this, as it helps understand the characters. Which, of course, feel so real and believable they could be your neighbours (though for your sake, I hope they're not :D).
Pacing and flow:
This instalment was filled with action, but I think everything just feels a lot slower compared to the last book :) There was a good balance between the action and much-needed conversation to keep the story moving forward.
The book:
The book's well written with no (noticeable) errors. It has 352 pages, spread over 14 chapters and is told from Mercy's point of view.
Final thoughts:
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book, and all in all
Allison Ann wrote: "Sorry I didn't post my selection, but I'm done now, so .... :D..."No worries Allison Ann, thanks for the review! :)
CONGRATULATIONS, Double Serial Slayers!You now have an updated BINGO card with a stamp on 'free space'.
[Your updated BINGO card can be viewed on page 1]
Good Job!! :D
Congratulations on the stamp SS!
Selection Post:Week: 6
Urban Fantasy
The Gunslinger: Revised Edition by Stephen King
How it fits: tagged 83 times Urban Fantasy
Allison Ann wrote: "Rosina wrote: "Allison Ann wrote: "So Urban Fantasy this week. I was hoping to double up on books, because I have a busy week ahead of me. Of course I don't have a #6 in series for any of my UF ser..."I did SS and Uno and am trying a Team Clue one
LGBTQ or Covid Chaos to increase our line. :D No idea what I will read for either of those.
25 pages and there isn't a single book I want to read on that Swoon-worthy list. This could take a little time.
Allison, well there is the alternate list or you could try other books in the same series if they appealed, which is how I found my book :)
I forgot about the alternate. I've never used it before. I'm sure I can find a pseudo-porn book on the list, just not in the mood. :D
Shelf #7 ~ 16 Mar 22: Swoon WorthyDIRECT LINK - Swoon-Worthy
It seems we have another round of BSB without a winner yay :D
Happy reading!
Allison Ann, yeah I know the feeling! Here is a quick recap for the Alternative choice:
Alternative Reader's Choice Options
(Only 2 allowed per person, per round; 1 teammate per shelf)
~ "Hail Mary" (inspired by Valerie ~Val Hall~) ~ players may read a book that should have been shelved on one of the called shelves, but wasn't found there
~ Third book in a series
~ Book by an Author with F, M or T in first or last name
Selection PostWeek 7 - Swoon Worthy
Dark Harmony by Laura Thalassa
Pages: 436
I don't want this series to end... all the feels :(
Completion PostWeek 6 - Urban Fantasy
Book: One Fell Sweep by Ilona Andrews
Pages: 257
Read: 16/03/2022
Rating: 5*
Review:
I'll just read a chapter or so before going to bed... said no reader ever :D Yeah, I didn't finish it in one sitting, but it was close :D
Worldbuilding:
When a guest arrives, petitioning Dina for help, she knows this is going to be a huge problem. That said, Dina wouldn't be the Dina we all love if she would let someone harm one of her guests, that's just not done. And so begins, I think, one of the most challenging trials she has faced so far. I can't stress enough how good the writing is! From start to finish, you're IN the book alongside the characters. You can easily picture it and flow with the story no matter what happens. Love it!!!
Character development:
In this instalment, Dina is set before some impossible decisions... again. What I like about her is that she's not all-powerful. Dina has considerable power as an innkeeper, but she knows when to ask for help. She's such a great character :D She has a good head on her shoulders, good intuition and people knowledge. She knows what is right and what she needs to do, even if it is the hard way.
I was super happy that we have a lot more of Sean in this instalment, yay :D Our brooding werewolf (are all werewolves broody?) steps up his game, and I could only cheer him on.
Add to that some nifty new characters and our dear Lord Arland, and voila: superb character line-up! They all feel so real and believable *sigh*.
Pacing and flow:
A lot of action but with room to catch your breath in between. Smooth sailing from start to finish, such a joy to read!
The book:
The book was well written with no (noticeable) errors. There is sex described (if that is important to you). It has 257 pages, spread over 14 chapters and is told from Dina's point of view.
Final thoughts:
I can honestly say this is the best book in the series so far. It has it all: drama, love, action, and yes, even some facepalm moments. I really love this series and feel it's not getting the attention it deserves :( I mean, it's a sci-fi/urban fantasy with a dash of romance (not too much though). Who wouldn't love it?!
Completion Post:Week 6 - Urban Fantasy
The Gunslinger: Revised Edition by Stephen King
How it fits: tagged 83 times Urban Fantasy
reply | edit | delete | flag *
Pages: 231
Date Read: March 17 2022
Rating: 4.5 stars
Review: As a teenager in the mid 70s I started reading SK when he was starting out and was so intriged with his writings. When ever a new book came out I would devour it over and over. Then mid 80s I stopped reading SK, now approaching my 60's I am starting to read SK again. I decided I wanted to started with The Dark Tower series as I had read the first 3.
I really enjoyed reading the introduction writer notes as to why he did revisions and what were some of his influences.
As for the story i did enjoy it but I think reading it 40 years later I definitely am able to appreciate it more than I did when I first read it. I really enjoy his descriptive writing and the characters and worlds he builds. For me his style of writing just sucks me in and i lean back enjoy the ride because i know at some point it will all make sense.
Selection PostWeek 7 - Swoon Worthy
Imperfect Chemistry by Mary Frame
Pages: 266
How it fits: Tagged 1 time swoon worthy
So I have a dilemma. I found a book on the list that I owned because of insane levels of free kindle downloading back in the day. :D It is YA, vampires, insta-love with a bad person because you KNOW they are really misunderstood, yadda yadda, everything I hate in a book, but I can suck it up for one book. However, when I went to post here now, I discovered that almost every single copy shows as less than 200 pages. Mine shows as 224, Amazon where I got it shows as 220. The closest I can find on GR is 243. Is this book okay or do we think or should I turf it and find something else.Book - Captured
Allison, as long as 1 edition is over 200 you're good.I'll fix the page number when my computer isn't playing up. I take it your edition is kindle with asin B0087G3U92, which is 220 pages on amazon?
I need to make sure the covers are the same, and at present I can't 'see' covers, due to a problem with my provider (someone dug up a cable they shouldn't have).
Thanks Sandra. I missed the kindle with 220 pages on the list. That one is absolutely close enough to my version, so don't worry about changing anything. I just didn't want to suffer through 200 pages of a terrible book and then find it didn't count. :D
Well, I'll still need to fix it, that's what the Librarians of GR do :DBut you use whichever edition is over 200 pages. For kindles we can only use what Amazon has and page numbers do change.
ETA: And fixed. This is the new one if you want to use it Allison.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Thanks Sandra, I shall.Unfortunately the book isn't getting any better. I have a feeling I will be reading this one all week.
I'm interested in how it goes, I got this one as a freebie, years ago :)
SOS: Serious Overload of Series
Books mentioned in this topic
Blaze (other topics)To Kill A Warlock (other topics)
Undead and Unemployed (other topics)
Succubus Heat (other topics)
Blaze (other topics)
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Authors mentioned in this topic
Suzanne Wright (other topics)H.P. Mallory (other topics)
MaryJanice Davidson (other topics)
Richelle Mead (other topics)
Suzanne Wright (other topics)
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Victoria I am going to swap out my Free Read with Sweep in Peace ...House of Earth and Blood is such a big book that it intimidates me and I want to be able to read it one go instead of interspersed amongst other reads....so I will read that in the summer...
Sweep in Peace Option 3 found on SOS bookshelf.