Julie's Flight to 50 and Beyond (2009)

[Julie]

, Book 1 of the Wicked Lovely series(?) by Melissa Marr

This book focuses on the world of Faerie being intertwined with those in the "mortal world." An enjoyable read with love and loyalty themes...plus hottie humans and hottie fairies. Liked it enough to read the 2nd one.

[Julie]

, book 2 of the Wicked Lovely series (?) by Melissa Marr

Read this baby in one afternoon...enjoyable as well, but focuses on Aislinn's friend, Leslie, and her battle with an abusive druggie of a brother and her unknowing attachment to Irial, Lord of the Dark (Faerie) Court. While these books mostly focuses on the internal struggles of the lead characters...a faerie war seems to be brewing in the background. I'm not sure that that is the author's main goal and it kind of gets overlooked with the mortals and humans always falling for each other...so we'll see how #3 goes.

[Julie]

by Janet Evanovich (Stephanie Plum series)

This is yet another great addition to the Plum series. Absolutely hilarious...I was laughing out loud with tears in my eyes over the hot dog scene closer toward the end. Lovable characters and crazy plot - makes for yet another fun read.

[Julie]

by Kelley Armstrong, Book 1 of the Darkest Powers series ( I think that's its name)

Wasn't sure about this one at first...I haven't read ghost stories for a long time, but after Chloe, the main chica, goes to Lyle House, things start picking up with the other characters she meets. Magic, shapeshifting, necromancy, friendships, and danger all combine for a increasingly interesting read. I have requested the 2nd book!

[Julie]

Book 2 of the Queen Betsy "Undead and ..." series

Super quick, witty read, much like the first - I was still cracking up while reading. I love Betsy and her friends.

[Julie]

by Maria Snyder, Book 1 of the "Study"(?) series (trilogy...)

Slow at first and a little hard to get into, but after Yelena becomes the official food taster in the castle and meets more characters who are either friend or foe, the story def. starts picking up. The story could stand alone but luckily, there are 2 more to read!!

[Julie]

, Book 3 of the Queen Betsy series by Mary Janice Davidson

Enjoyable, quick lil' read...not too heavy on a main conflict or plot...more like a continuation of character development and seems like the previewed conflict with Betsy's sister, Laura, will possibly continue on through the series because it isn't exactly dealt with in full in this one. Still a cute read with plenty of humor...I will continue the series.

[Julie]

, book 2 of the Study series by Maria Snyder

I'm enjoying these books even more after reading this one!! Faster pacing and more character chaos made this an appealing read. Yelena's increased confidence really adds to the story. I am currently reading the next book.

[Julie]

, Book 4 of the Queen Betsy series by Mary Janice Davidson

Still enjoyable and humorous little read...it's light reading with laughs. I love the characters and look forward to more of these books.

[Julie]

[image error] , Book 2 of the Darkest Powers series(?) by Kelley Armstrong

Wow! I loved this book! Just a little slow at the beginning, but still interesting...once the chase is on, nonstop action and suspense ensues (along with great character development and connecting - Derek is my favorite). I was crestfallen once I got to the last chapter and realized it was only a page and a half and then it ended! I want more!! I'm excited to see how her next novel will carry the story.

[Julie]

, Book 5 of the Queen Betsy series by Mary Janice Davidson

This was my least favorite book in this series so far. I still enjoy the characters, but there was too much bickering/bantering/cliche language back and forth between them, and not enough actual plot/action/mystery...anything else meaty there holding it all together. Some of the books in this series are very segwayish...humorous and entertaining, but light on main plot.

[Julie]

, Book 6 of Queen Betsy series by Mary Janice Davidson

The hodgepodge of characters usually surrounding Betsy are mostly missing from this one. I actually liked this twist because it created room for a bit of a mystery/decent plot to grow. Betsy had to think for herself and the somewhat obnoxious bickering between characters was kept to a minimum. I did think the whole wedding was wrapped up nice and tidy - a little too quickly, especially since Betsy had been planning it and leading up to it for several books now. No big deal, wedding done and over, and sex as usual for Betsy and Sinclair. I wonder if the author has a length limit, because she seems to keep things short and not develop out as much as there could be. The fix for Jessica's crisis was a quick, relatively unexplained little trick too. For serious subjects and events, the solutions were a little too light and glossy. I enjoyed the introduction of the werewolf pack and their crazy interactions with Betsy.

[Julie]

, Book 3 of the House of Night novels by the Casts

Once I was able to skim/dig my way past the teenage babble (which is "like, totally, over-the-top valley-girl/boy, dude", the story itself was actually decent. I am curious to see how things turn out for the characters. Caution on this series: each one is a bit more explicit and the sexual encounters have just upped a a whole rung with Chosen. While fun to read, the latest sex situation disappointed me with the lack of Zoey's supposed "goodness" in character. I guess that was the plan - boo, Zoey.

[Julie]

[image error] by Anne Osterlund

I read this in one sitting. Very enjoyable and satisfying tale. Would be interesting as a series continued on with the adventures of the 2 lead characters.

[Julie]

[image error] (The Demigod Files) by Rick Riordan

Entertaining short stories and snippets with Percy and the rest of the lovable cast of characters from the original series. Provides main characters profiles with illustrations and several character "interviews" are included. Very cute!!

[Julie]

[image error] Untamed, Book 4 in the House of Night series by the Casts

After skimming my way through the mounds of teenage babble that continues to plague this series, I did enjoy the basic story with its suspense, mystery, and character development. I like that Zoey is becoming better friends with her former enemy/nemesis and I hope that this friendship is genuine and continues. I liked that Zoey was NOT such a "ho" in this one, but I figure it's only a matter of time. {Every time she's around a new guy she's head over heels for the guy and swooning, only to go jump the next hot guy's bones she sees. Get a grip, girl.} Anyways, I am looking forward to the next one to see how the impending good vs. evil thingy turns out.

[Julie]

Fire Study, Book 3 of the "Study" Trilogy by Maria V. Snyder

I am glad I stuck with these books. Very satisfactory conclusion to the trio. This was a little difficult for me to get into, at first, (probably because I have a huge stack of books that I'm hopping back and forth between) but the development of the characters - especially Yelena, the lead, made for a great adventure. I would recommend this trio. to anyone who likes adventure stories with strong heroine leads and magic.

[Julie]

Undead and Unworthy, Book 7 of the Queen Betsy series by Mary Janice Davidson

Enjoyable and slightly suspenseful with regard to the fiend situation...kind of petered out towards the end, but I think the author probably just continues the story right into her next book. Humorous, light read, and fun.

[Julie]

by Mary Janice Davidson

Very enjoyable, funny and entertaining - a nice dose of paranormal stories.

[Julie]

by Mary Janice Davidson

Also very enjoyable! Nice taste of paranormal stories for quick reading.

[Julie]

(Various authors)

Short stories about vampires and their birthdays. I enjoyed reading the different points of view on vampirism and found some authors I'd like to pursue further.

[Julie]

, Book 1 of the Sword of Truth series by Terry Goodkind

Wow! Yay! I finally finished it! I really liked this book. I've been catching "Legend of the Seeker" episodes Sunday nights based on this series, so I had some background knowledge about the story (which I think helped me enjoy the book more). I'm not sure if I'll continue with the series or not, because this first book really could stand alone as a satisfying and completed tale of adventure, though it hints that not all is as well as it may seem...leading to future perusal. If you enjoy fantasy/adventure reads and a whopper of a love connection, this is a must read.

[Kathy]

Julie wrote: " Book 1, by Suzanne Collins
This book really surprised me. Visual culture that we are, the cover was unappealing (I know, don't judge by that) and the title did..."

Julie, I have been surprised by this book, too. I'm almost finished with it, and I can't believe that I like this book so much.

[Julie]

Undead and Unwelcome, Book 8 of the Queen Betsy series by Mary Janice Davidson

The author took awhile to actually get into the plot...did a lot of summarizing events from previous books and Betsy, airhead that she is, kept repeating these tangents in her mind, while the new main plot was supposed to be happening. Very distracting...eventually, the plot picked up its pace and was more enjoyable. The author did try some different techniques this time...with Marc's point of view from his diary. This angle helped the plot some, but sometimes, interrupted me when I was really getting into a part of the story. Still made me chuckle out loud...so I still like the series and will try the next one when it comes out.

[Julie]

Sleeping with the Fishes by Mary Janice Davidson, Book 1 of the Fredericka Bimm series/trio (?)

While similar to the vampire Queen Betsy's flippant and sarcastic attitude, Fred, the mermaid. Very funny, with a slight mystery to boot, and sprouting romance. Enjoyable...will read the next one!

[Julie]

Swimming Without a Net, Book 2 of the Frederika Bimm series

Very quick, clever read...finished in one sitting. Continues to be funny and enjoyable...I'm into Fred and her crazy attitude and romance dilemmas.

[Julie]

Storm Glass by Maria V. Snyder

Ooooh, I loved this book. Written from Opal Cowan's point of view, the young glass maker who puts a magical glow into each of her creations, I found myself gratefully back in the world of Yelena and the Poison Study trilogy. I recommend reading Poison Study, Magic Study, and Fire Study before trying this one out. It will make this story all the more enjoyable with the familiarity of the landscapes, culture, and characters of Ixia and Sitia. The book moved quickly with suspense, mystery, magic, and adventure...and a lil' romance here and there. Some loose ends were left upon finishing the novel, but it seems there will be more to this one (of which I am very excited for!!). Yay!

[Julie]

by Rachel Caine, Book 1 of the Morganville Vampires series

Very fun...some suspense...favorable characters.

[Julie]

by Rachel Mead, Book 1 of the VA series

Loved this book, too! Another nifty vampire series to try out! Yay! Plus, even though it centers around older teenagers, most of the cliche guppy teen lingo is kept to a bare minimum and was easier to keep my interest.

[Julie]

by Janet Evanovich (Stephanie Plum series)

Very light, enjoyable read...made me chuckle often. I couldn't figure out the purpose of the title for this one...maybe just because it's her 11th book and Stephanie Plum mentions being "on top" of Morelli?? I don't know...regardless, very funny.

[Julie]

by Gerry Bartlett, Glory St. Clair series

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. The lead lady, Glory, is intelligent, opportunistic, funny, and a little sassy. The story has hottie vampires, humor, a bit of getting down and dirty, and a bit of mystery/suspense. Very fun...I'm going to try the next one in the series.

[Julie]

by Julia Golding, Book 2 in the Companions Quartet

These books just keep getting better. I continue to enjoy the plot and the likeable characters. I was glad to meet a few new characters in this one, like Aunt Godiva, Cassandra (Col's mom), and most interesting, "Rat" (a potential Society member). I continue to wonder how hold these kids really are...as they seem fairly mature, but also seem to still be in elementary school...no interest in the opposite sex except as friends...but big into the environment. Maybe 6th grade age? I'm ready for the next one!

[Julie]

by Janet Evanovich, #1 in the Stephanie Plum series

Hilarious and suspenseful all in one. Great to go back to the beginning of it all and meet the characters. I'm going to try reading more of the series in order and see how that changes my perspective on things.

[Julie]

by Janet Evanovich, #2 in the Stephanie Plum series

I was cracking up out loud while reading this...with my husband looking at me like I was crazy. He came over to me a couple times to see what was so funny in the book, but ya have to read the whole thing to get it. Another great mystery filled with hilarity, suspense, and witty, lovable characters. Always fun.

[Julie]

, Book 2 of the Morganville Vampires series, by Rachel Caine

Another fast-paced, suspenseful read in the world of the Morganville vamps and the humans they basically rule. Ready for the next one!

[Julie]

, Book 2 of the Glory St. Clair series, by Gerry Bartlett

Light on plot, heavy on sex/the sensual...enjoyable read..but very lightweight.

[Julie]

[image error] Book 3 of the Companions Quartet by Julia Golding

These books continue to get better. I am bummed that there is only one more to go...this would have been an increasingly enjoyable series with more books. I found out the age of the kids in this one...early teens. The adventure and character relationships kept growing and changing through this installment...and there's even the briefest hints of slight romance possibilities with the kids. Cute stuff.

[Julie]

, Book 5 in the House of Night series by the Casts

I forced myself to get through the teenage drudgery and romance triangles until the last quarter of the book...when, for the most part, things finally got moving. (i.e. Once they went back to the House of Night...more interesting from there on out). I really like Stark...since he has that attractive potential to be "good" and to be a good match with Zoey. It is driving me crazy how all Zoey needs to do is see/be with one of her male minions for her to forget about the other guys in her life and just "want to be with only that guy". Out of sight, out of mind. Ok, maybe its because they're vampires/fledglings, maybe because they're hormonal teenagers, but regardless, just choose one boyfriend already!! Jeesh! It distracts a bit from the story with all her ho-humming about her hot man admirers. Gag me. I might try the next one, but I'm ready for this series to end.

[Julie]

Book 3 in the Morganville Vampires series by Rachel Caine

This is an increasingly enjoyable series...suspense, mystery, action, and a little love. I really enjoyed the suspenseful, yet somewhat endearing "friendship" that developed between Claire and her "teacher," Myrnin. I hope she is able to go back and help him later in the series. And while I like the spicy, budding relationship with Claire and Shane...he is a bit of a spazz temper-wise. I was not happy to see the parent surprise that happened at the end of this book...parents always get in the way of fun for main characters (who should technically be living with their parents anyways). The tension in the town is definitely increasing...along with Claire's new knowledge of the town and its vampy inhabitants. Things are going to get crazy, I think. I look forward to devouring the next one!

[Julie]

Book 4 of the Companions Quartet by Julia Golding

I am so bummed that this story has come to an end. It's a delightful crew of characters, both creatures and people, to be attached to and I am sad to not read about them anymore. I read this in one sitting and was satisfied with the ending to the quartet, except that I want more!! Very enjoyable.

[Julie]

[image error] by Janet Evanovich

Another humorous, enjoyable read for the Stephanie Plum series. I'm attempting to backtrack and start from the beginning...lotsa fun to see how places and people in the stories got their start.

[Carol]

Julie, it took me awhile to realize that very thing, that it would actually be better, and more fun, to see 'how people and places in the stories got their start'. Now if I find a new author that clicks with me I Google them and find out the chronology of their books and try to start with the first one. I got on an Ellery Queen kick and luckily my library had the first dozen, so I could read them in order, but EQ (a pseudonym, by the way) had so many books and anthologies in print since the 1930's that along the way, the road has gotten less clear about what's coming next...it looks to me, by the series you've mentioned that you like a lot of fantasy/horror stories, n'est ce pas?
Carol

[Julie]

Hi, Carol. Google is always handy for checking on author book lists...but we also like to use www.fantasticfiction.com here at the library. It's a great site to see the books (with covers) that an author has written and if they are in a series or not. I enjoy fantasy/paranormal books, but not horror. The stories have to be a little light on any grotesque stuff or violence...and include more humor and endearing characters.
I have not heard of Ellery Queen...what type of books does she write?
I do not mean to sound like an ignorant fool, but I've only had some Spanish, not French(?)...while looking familiar, what does "N'est ce pas" mean?

[Julie]

by Janet Evanovich (A Between-the-Numbers Stephanie Plum story)
I love Stephanie's 3rd male "interest/predicament", Diesel, and always enjoy his wily character showing up in these between-the-number books. Lula, Grandma Mazur, Diesel, Stephanie and a few other oddball characters - including a huge horse - make this a chuckle-out-loud story of wild mystery and humor. Hilarious.

[Julie]

By Rachel Caine, Book 4 of the Morganville Vampires series

Another fast-paced, suspenseful addition to this YA series. Claire's character is increasingly enjoyable as her confidence and...importance...grow in this series. Shane and Michael continue to be steamy roomies with their gals, while I'm hoping that Eve will one day go without the chalked on goth makeup. Sure, that's her character, but now that she's dating vampalicious Michael, what's the point?? I enjoyed how various "sides" in Morganville had to stand together against a common enemy, Bishop, uber-evil vampire of them all. The "war/game" continues into the next installment, so we'll see how their forces combine (human and vampire) to hopefully defeat a true evil. Seeing as Morganville is already dreary enough....

[Arlene]

Julie wrote: "Hi, Carol. Google is always handy for checking on author book lists...but we also like to use www.fantasticfiction.com here at the library. It's a great site to see the books (with covers) that a..."

Julie, Ellery Queen is the pseudonym for a pair of cousins who wrote a series of books staring Ellery Queen as a character. He was the son of a police detective who did some detecting on his own. The 1st novel was published in 1929. The series was very popular in the 30's and 40's. The cousins also were editors and created a short story, mystery magazine, also called "Ellery Queen". The magazine is still publishing today (I subscribe to it and enjoy reading it.)
Arlene

[Carol]

Julie, "N'est Ce Pas" means "Right?" or "Isn't that right" or "Don't you agree?" and is pronounced "nes pah"...sorry, didn't mean to be obscure with the reference. It's very basic French and consequently used by English-speaking people in publications, etc. I wonder, do they still teach that in HS? It's been many years since I graduated, 1960 to be exact. In regard to Ellery Queen, I was really into that series last year and was astounded to learn that the name is indeed a pseudonym for cousins and not just one person. They wrote the first book as a contest submission (which they won) and from that sprang a very prolific writing career for both of them. Books, magazines, radio, anthologies...and even though they are both deceased now their descendants are carrying on the tradition of quality mystery/crime writing. Since the characters have spanned quite a time period, it is interesting to see how they have changed, although the main characters have aged very little since inception.

[Julie]

, Book 2 of the Hunger Games

A fast, flurry of action and suspense...left me on the edge of my seat, ready for the next one!

[Julie]

Hmm, this was definitely a different read. Imaginative, but somewhat disjointed and a lil' hard to follow. Some major plot pieces were left hanging completely unresolved, as the main characters prepare for their outdoor adventure...so I'm assuming there will be a follow-up to this...but who knows...

[Julie]

I really liked this story...navy blue print (how cute), prosy writing, fast-paced but kept me emotionally attached to the characters, suspenseful, and of course, romantic. The ending was a little...abrupt, I guess (the resolvement part) but happy, if not iffy. There are a few ends left a little loose but the rumor is that there may be more books after this one. Reminded me somewhat of Twilight, but only with the angsty, hard-core love you or I could just die, type of connection between the lovers. Interesting take on "werewolves"...hoped to see more develop with Grace's long-hidden abilities, but we'll see...