Book Review: Foretold (The Demon Trappers, Book 4) by Jana Oliver

Title: Foretold

Author: Jana Oliver

Series: The Demon Trappers #4

Pages: 352

My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

In FORETOLD, the fourth Demon Trappers novel by Jana Oliver, Riley faces the final battle for humanity and Beck's heart—and Hell is the least of her problems

Now that Riley’s managed to (just barely) fend off Armageddon, everything’s changed. Well . . . most things. After their passionate kiss before the big battle in the cemetery, Beck is back to treating her like a little girl, as if nothing ever happened. While she’d love to just tell him off and move on, Riley vowed to take care of Beck the way he’s taken care of her since her father’s death—but she’s about to get a whole lot more than she bargained for. When she’s commissioned to go with Beck to his hometown and help him care for his dying mother, they stumble too close to a dark and murderous secret, one that Beck fears will drive Riley away from him forever. As chaos breaks loose, Riley may be Beck's only hope for redemption . . . and survival.

Meanwhile, up in Atlanta, it’s quickly becoming clear that Heaven may have won a battle, but the war is far from over. Riley and Beck face a stormy future, as Lucifer's ex-right-hand-man, Sartael, proves himself to be more resilient than anyone thought. He has Atlanta in his grip and is about to begin a brutal war with the prince of Hell. As the seconds tick down toward a final confrontation, it's up to Riley and the man she loves to finally defeat their old enemy, or lose everything they've fought for.

Based upon the premise and what had happened in the series thus far, I had high expectations for Foretold. For the majority of the book, I was very happy with how the story progressed; however, there were some portions that I felt were kind of unnecessary or odd to me. I absolutely loved the entire plot about Beck and Riley back in his hometown. It was full of mystery, intrigue, and even had a little character depth development. This storyline had me instantly reeled in and made me want to keep reading. Once that was wrapped up I was ready for some more action! I'm happy to report, that there was some more action, I mean in a world filled with demons there had to be!

Usually I do not have a problem with reading YA, and I haven't really had a problem with this series until this book specifically. It may have something to do with how sometimes I forget Riley's age, since she has such major "end-of-the-world" stuff going on. Or it could have something to do with how it was written. I honestly have no idea, but this entire concept in the story just rubbed me the wrong way.

I don't know if this would be considered a major spoiler or anything, but if you don't want any spoilers, skip ahead! ** Okay, so the portion of the story that just seemed so out of place was the prom. It was sweet that Beck asked, but at the same time, him asking her on a nice date or setting up something special for her would have made me feel a bit better. I know Riley is still a teenager and thus, it's appropriate that she goes to prom, but still....it was all a bit weird to me. Additionally, the dress described was no way near what I would have pictured Riley in. It had little rosettes...on the neckline...rosettes!!**

Okay, now that I'm done with that little rant, I will sum up by saying that overall, I did really enjoy the Demon Trappers series as a whole thus far! I know that originally Foretold was to be the final book in this series, but I am happy to see that there are actually two additional books (besides novellas) that will enable us to see more of Riley and Beck's story. Although their story didn't pull me under and have me enthralled in the ups and downs, it truly was a sweet story. They were two people that have been through so much and were able to find comfort and support in one another. I'll have to check out the next two books to see what else is in store for them!

Book Review: Forgiven (The Demon Trappers, Book 3) by Jana Oliver

Title: Forgiven

Author: Jana Oliver

Series: The Demon Trappers #3

Pages: 354

My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

Riley has made a bargain with Heaven, and now they've come to collect.

Lucifer's finest are ruling the streets and it seems that Armageddon might be even closer than Riley imagined. But with her soul and her heart in play it's all she can do to keep herself alive, let alone save the world. Riley's not afraid of kicking some major demon butt, but when it comes to a battle between Heaven and Hell, she might need a little help...

If you're wanting a superficial bubblegum book where everything is hunky dory, this is definitely not the book...make that series, for you! Instead, if you want a book with an intriguing plot that is beautifully orchestrated and one where the characters are multi-layered, then this may be the series for you!

I have to say that I enjoyed this installment even more so than it's predecessor. Oliver was able to jam pack this book with plenty of action, mystery, some snarky humor, and moments that make you just go aww. I am not joking on that last one...not at all. There were times I, probably just like majority of the more secondary characters, was like, okay, we know exactly how you two feel...can you just let each other know already?! If you've read the previous books you definitely know which two I'm talking about too! The funny thing is, I'm not even mad about it either. Sometimes I want the love interests to just hurry up already and get it over with; however, I really am enjoying seeing Riley and Beck's dynamic. It's pretty stinkin' sweet and adorable. 

Additionally, another dynamic I am enjoying is that of the demon trappers and the hunters, and how they view their relationships with heaven and hell. I just really find the concept super interesting. The angels and Lucifer are definitely not what you would traditionally expect. Things are not always so black and white. 

As with the previous book, I am eagerly going to start the next one in the series. There are still so many questions that need to be answered! Furthermore, I just need to see more of my favorite characters!

Book Review: Soul Thief/Forbidden (Demon Trappers Book 2) by Jana Oliver

Title: Soul Thief (also known as Forbidden)

Author: Jana Oliver

Series: Demon Trappers

Pages: 339

My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

Riley Blackthorne is beginning to learn that there are worse things than death by demon. And love is just one of them...

Seventeen-year-old Riley has about had it up to here. After the devastating battle at the Tabernacle, trappers are dead and injured, her boyfriend Simon is gravely injured, and now her beloved late father's been illegally poached from his grave by a very powerful necromancer. As if that's not enough, there's Ori, one sizzling hot freelance demon hunter who's made himself Riley's unofficial body guard, and Beck, a super over-protective "friend" who acts more like a grouchy granddad. With all the hassles, Riley's almost ready to leave Atlanta altogether.

But as Atlanta's demon count increases, the Vatican finally sends its own Demon Hunters to take care of the city's "little" problem, and pandemonium breaks loose. Only Riley knows that she might be the center of Hell's attention: an extremely powerful Grade 5 demon is stalking her, and her luck can't last forever...

After reading the first installment of Oliver's Demon Trappers series, I knew that I absolutely loved the characters; however, I also wanted a little more depth, a little more emotion to them...just a little. And wow, I have to say that Oliver definitely delivered!

In Soul Thief we gain a bit more insight into Beck. Not a ton, but just enough to make you see that he is absolutely adorable and has so much to offer. I am by no means a crier when it comes to reading books, don't get me wrong, I'll get emotional, but tears don't typically fall. At one certain point in the book, a certain "revelation" involving Beck literally made me tear up. I couldn't help it! I just wanted to reach through the pages and give him a hug so bad. I mean come on, he has had some major struggles in his life and this particular moment just was the thing that made me feel for him even more, just because it is an issue that people still face, and something he is striving to overcome. I won't give away any spoilers, except just be ready for a very sweet, vulnerable Denver Beck. 

So, besides containing one of the most touching scenes, Soul Thief was also full of a little mystery. I really enjoyed getting to know one of the more friendly necromancers as Riley set out to find more information about who exactly reanimated her dad. It was interesting to dive a bit deeper into that world. 

Okay, so now onto Riley. As much as I love her, she makes some questionable decisions. Which, technically I can see why she makes the decisions that she does. She has just been through so much and I really just want to see her happy, which she actually is for a brief second in this book. On that note, I will say that Soul Thief is full of surprises, and not ones that I really saw coming. I was actually thrown for a loop a time or two! 

"The end is near!" The man shouted again
"Is there still time for hot chocolate?" Riley Asked.
The End Times guy blinked. "Ah, maybe; I don't know."
"Oh, good," she said. "I'd hate to take on Hell without fueling up."

Book Review: The Demon Trapper's Daughter/Forsaken (The Demon Trappers, Book 1) by Jana Oliver

Title: The Demon Trapper's Daughter

Author: Jana Oliver

Series: The Demon Trapper's Book #1

Pages: 340

My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

RILEY BLACKTHORNE JUST NEEDS A CHANCE TO PROVE HERSELF - AND THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT THE DEMONS ARE COUNTING ON . . . .

Seventeen-year-old Riley, the only daughter of legendary demon trapper Paul Blackthorne, has always dreamed of following in her father's footsteps. The good news is, with human society seriously disrupted by economic upheaval and Lucifer increasing the number of demons in all major cities, Atlanta’s local Trappers Guild needs all the help they can get – even from a girl. When she’s not keeping up with her homework or trying to manage her growing crush on fellow apprentice Simon, Riley’s out saving distressed citizens from foul-mouthed little devils – Grade One Hellspawn only, of course, per the strict rules of the Guild. Life’s about as normal as can be for the average demon-trapping teen.

But then a Grade Five Geo-Fiend crashes Riley’s routine assignment at a library, jeopardizing her life and her chosen livelihood. And, as if that wasn’t bad enough, sudden tragedy strikes the Trappers Guild, spinning Riley down a more dangerous path than she ever could have imagined. As her whole world crashes down around her, who can Riley trust with her heart – and her life?

I read The Demon Trapper's Daughter a few years ago, but don't remember ever finishing the series. I came across this book again and remembered that I did enjoy the book, so I thought I'd pick it up again and try finishing the whole series! I am really glad that I did too!

Each character was dimensional. They all had their own unique roles to play throughout the novel and I enjoyed seeing new truths revealed about them as the storyline unfolded. Riley has gone through so much in her life and is continuing to face obstacles currently. Although I hated that it seemed as if she never got a break, I loved seeing her overcome every obstacle that she was faced with. She is a very strong, kick-ass heroine and she fit perfectly in the world that Oliver created.

Additionally, the story was told between differing perspectives, which I absolutely love! Getting Beck's perspective greatly added to the story. It gave me more insight into his character and I cannot help but love him. It's obvious that contrary to Riley's beliefs, he does indeed have a heart.

There is so much more I NEED to know about these characters and what's in store with Atlanta's demon problem!

"That’s when she’d learned that male egos and fruit had a lot in common: Both bruised easily."

Book Review: Monster (Cassidy Edwards Book 1) by Carmen Caine

Title: Monster
Author: Carmen Caine
Series: Cassidy Edwards #1
Pages: 282
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤

Revenge. It’s all I've lived for. Revenge against those who stacked the cards against me from the start. But I’m changing the deck now. I’m getting even. Born to a vampire, I wasn’t supposed to survive—but I did.

My name is Cassidy. Cassidy Edwards. And I’m the first of my kind.

The Job
Trapping a sixteenth-century Scottish Highlander of a vampire who just might be seduction itself.

The Team
A firedrake with an attitude, a werewolf with a problem, and an imp in dire need of rehab.

The Boss
A dangerously powerful warlock as handsome as sin.

My Problem:
Bluffing my way into a job, my first mission into the Charmed world opens a Pandora’s box of betrayal and secrets... along with attractions of the most lethal kind.

Monster turned out to be a really interesting and funny read! From the moment I opened the book, I was sucked in and just had to keep reading it. The overall world and story created by Caine was very intriguing! I especially loved the inclusion of Ricky, the rehab-Imp. He was super funny! I really enjoyed the part where he took over 1000 selfies!! He truly was some great comic relief! Additionally I enjoyed Cassidy’s story. She had no choice in a situation that forever changed her. I would be wanting a little revenge myself! She is a super snarky character that knows what she wants and goes after it. I can’t wait to see what trouble she can get into next, especially under the employ of the mysterious Lord Rowle...

Book Review: Savage (Wolf Springs Chronicles Book 3) by Nancy Holder & Debbie Viguie

Title: Savage
Author: Nancy Holder & Debbie Viguie
Series: Wolf Springs Chronicles #3
Pages: 336
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤

Who do you run to?

Out in the forest, tensions are blazing like forest fire. The ancient rivalry between the Fenner and Gaudin packs has reached fever pitch, and only a battle will quell the blood lust.

Katelyn is caught in the middle, her pack loyalties tested like never before. The person she needs the most - strong, sexy, loyal Trick - has no idea about her dark secrets. And while werewolf wars are raging, the Hellhound is still out there, stalking her every move.

It's time to take control. It's time to get savage.

After finishing Hot Blooded, I had a TON of questions that I desperately needed answers to. I was really hoping to get the answers I wanted in Savage, and boy did I! The book was AMAZING!

Holder & Viguie really know how to test my willpower! They had so completely enamored with the story that I couldn’t wait to see how everything unfolded! I constantly had to stop myself from flipping to the last page! Through sheer force of will I was able to make it to the end without giving in and taking a peek! 😊

I’m so glad that I didn’t spoil the ending for myself, because it was AMAZING!!! There were several twists and turns that I wasn’t expecting! I was literally on the edge of my seat for the last half of the book! Katelyn’s journey was intense, entertaining, and full of surprises! I’m so happy with how everything in the story turned out, and that ALL my questions got answered!

Book Review: Unleashed (Wolf Springs Chronicles Book 1) by Nancy Holder & Debbie Viguie

Title: Unleashed
Author: Nancy Holder & Debbie Viguie
Series: Wolf Springs Chronicles #1
Pages: 382
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤

Katelyn McBride’s life changed in an instant when her mother died. Uprooted from her California home, Katelyn was shipped to the middle of nowhere, Arkansas, to her only living relative, her grandfather. And now she has to start over in Wolf Springs, a tiny village in the Ozark Mountains. Like any small town, Wolf Springs has secrets. But the secrets hidden here are more sinister than Katelyn could ever imagine. It’s a town with a history that reaches back centuries, spans continents, and conceals terrifying truths. And Katelyn McBride is about to change everything.

Broken families, ageless grudges, forced alliances, and love that blooms in the darkest night—welcome to Wolf Springs.

When I came across Unleashed, I knew that I had to read it for a number of reasons.

1) The book is set in Arkansas

2) It's about werewolves

3) Nancy Holder & Debbie Viguie are AWESOME

4) There's a bit of eye candy 😉

With reasons like that, how could I not pick it up, I mean it's got to be good right? Well, at least that's what I thought. Much to my chagrin it was awesome! Being from Arkansas, I loved how I felt as if I could picture the scenery better. The book would have gotten bonus points if it would have taken place in my hometown, however, I did know some of the towns, and I have actually been to the airport in Bentonville. Score one for me!

I especially enjoyed how such a big city girl like Katelyn called Arkansas "banjo land." She is by no means alone in thinking that! I've traveled places before and people have looked at me funny when I tell them that I'm from Arkansas. Not everywhere in Arkansas is "banjo land," just like not everywhere in California is Hollywood.

Despite her trepidations about Arkansas, Katelyn comes to learn that there is actually a lot of interesting stuff in her little town. Just like with any small town in the woods, Wolf Springs is full of legends. Katelyn learns all about them, and ends up a little too close for comfort with one in particular...

Not only is Katelyn intrigued by the legend of the hellhound, but I am as well! I can't wait devour the next installment. There's way too many questions that I need answers to! Such as, what's up with Trick? What's the connection between Katelyn and Justin? What is Mike's deal (seriously, he has got to be one of the biggest jerks EVER)?, and the question on everyone's mind What is going on in Wolf Springs?

Book Review: Bloodrage (Blood Destiny Book 3) by Helen Harper

Title: Bloodrage
Author: Helen Harper
Series: Blood Destiny #3
Pages: 237
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

Mack begins her training at the mages' academy in the hope that, by complying, the stasis spell will be lifted from her old friend, Mrs. Alcoon. However, once there, she finds herself surrounded by unfriendly adults and petulant teenagers, the majority of whom seem determined to see her fail.

Feeling attacked on all fronts, Mack finds it harder and harder to keep a rein on her temper. Forced to attend anger management classes and deal with the predatory attentions of Corrigan, the Lord Alpha of the shapeshifter world, her emotions start to unravel. But when she comes across a familiar text within the walls of the mages' library, which might just provide the clues she needs to unlock the secrets of her background and her dragon blood, she realises that her problems are only just beginning...

Mack seems to have an incredible talent of getting into trouble literally everywhere she goes. Bloodrage is definitely no different. Due to the events in both Bloodfire and Bloodmagic, Mack finds herself to be the newest initiate at the mages' prestigious academy, much to both the students and the teachers dismay.

She knows that if she doesn't succeed in passing all of her lessons at the academy, that poor Mrs. Alcoon will never be released from stasis. She also knows that to actually succeed, she will need to keep that little temper of hers in check, which is way easier said than done. Despite her predicament, Mack does try her hardest and even makes some actual friends!

Just as with the previous books, Bloodrage is full of action and there is a little bit of Corrigan thrown in there too (wink, wink). The suspense is killing me! We all know that Corrigan keeps popping up in Mack's life for a reason, but of course, Mack is emotional, temperamental, and stubborn. However, those same qualities, the temper, emotions, and stubbornness is also why we love her.

Sigh, we will just have to wait, because i am one hundred percent sure that Corrigan and Mack will happen. Hopefully, the next book in line, Blood Politics will not disappoint. I'm keeping my fingers crossed!

"His back was ramrod straight, exactly as if the metaphorical poker up his arse reached through his spine and into his skull. That probably accounted for the lack of brain cells, I figured sardonically."

"Wonders would never cease. It would appear that I may have made another, if perhaps rather taciturn, new friend."

"Good teachers don't seek to train their students to be as good as they are, they seek to make them better." 

Book Review: The Phoenix (Daughters of Destiny Book 4) by K.R. Grace

Title: The Phoenix
Author: K.R. Grace
Series: Daughters of Destiny #4
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤

Star Allistar:

I always felt out of step with everyone else. I never dreamt it was because I was some sort of mythological freak.

My whole world has been flipped around with Drake’s return, Brighton’s aloofness, and my Phoenix-thing going on, but instead of having time to adjust to the latest developments in what has become the saga that is my life…I have to save the world once again.

Only this time, I have to save it from me.

K.R. Grace, you are an absolute rockstar! I am so glad I came across The Loner, because it introduced me to a world I absolutely love. The entire concept behind Star's story was amazing, I mean coming up with the idea of having a book dedicated to each suitor was pure genius! This series is definitely in my top ten!

The Phoenix was so much more than I hoped it would be, and that's saying a lot, because I had super high expectations. The pace of the story was absolutely perfect! Things were happening quickly, yet slowly at the same time, which made for some extreme anticipation building. At one point I just decided I couldn't stop until I finished the book, I was that into it!

The built up anticipation and suspense really got to me. There were so many twists that I think my face may have froze in a position of shock for a while. Don't worry, it wasn't permanent. Eventually my expression changed from one of shock to one of pure happiness.

Even with all the shock-worthy moments and constant action, the story did manage to wrap itself up in a perfect package, complete with the perky bow and all. The ending had me grinning from ear to ear. I probably looked like the cheshire cat, but who cares! The story was just perfect. It's as simple as that. Perfect.

If you haven't read this series yet, do yourself a favor...READ IT!

"...and yes that was meant to be interpreted in a sarcastic bubblegum tone complete with clapping and jazz hands."

"Babe, I hate to break it to you, but you're one messed up mess."
"I know!" I exclaimed before breaking off into a fit of laughter. "I ought to be admitted or put on some serious medication or something."

"I invited Onyx to be my plus one. Of course she was all in when I added that Grandma A had a massive swimming pool and was within a short driving distance to a two-story bookstore."

"Seriously, why was it tradition to stand when the bride came in? It blocked her from seeing her groom, who was the only reason she was there in the first place."

Book Review: Blood Politics (Blood Destiny Book 4) by Helen Harper

Title: Blood Politics
Author: Helen Harper
Series: Blood Destiny #4
Pages: 220
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

You'd think that life would finally be dealing Mack Smith a kind hand. Living in London, and with the opening of the new improved city version of Clava Books mere days away, things appear to be settling down. Other than the terrible nightmares about dragons, that is. Or the fact that she's being constantly tailed by a string of mages, shifters and faeries, all of whom are constantly demanding her attention. And that's without even bringing the temptation of Corrigan, Lord Alpha of the Brethren, into the equation.

Then, when a local dryad asks her for some help, things really start to fire up. There are some long hot summer days ahead...

All I could think about while reading Blood Politics was just how perfect the title was for the book. It is extremely political, and no, there is no campaigning, but the rest is still there. Power struggles. Lies. Deceit. Manipulation. Greater Good. You know, the messy part of politics. Even though in school I have always hated politics (and preferred to happily daydream during those particular lectures...), I found myself extremely invested in the politics of the Otherworld. By far, this is one of my favorite books in the Blood Destiny Series!

I cannot help it, I love books that are filled with action and Harper does not disappoint! There were just so many twists in this one and I happily just read along, sometimes I sported a big goofy grin, while others I had my lips squished together trying not to cry (what can I say, I am an extremely expressive reader). Harper just has me way to invested in Mack's life, and at this point I don't think I can go back. I have definitely already committed. My favorite little dragon better have a happy ending.

Also, for those of you that have already become just as invested in Mack's life as I have, I will go ahead and tell you that the moment happened. It actually happened! This is one of those times I referred to earlier, you know where I had a cheesy grin on my face. However, I will warn you, Harper just absolutely loves twists and turns...

"Great, now he'd woken up the neighbours. I'd only moved in four days ago; it was hardly time to start pissing them off just yet."

"Another car drove past, horn blaring as its occupants caught sight of me. Some guy leaned out and wolf-whistled. Solus didn't look at them, but he jerked his wrist and there was a loud bang as the rear tyre burst and the car skidded off to the side, slamming into the side of a nearby building. I smirked"

Book Review: BloodMagic (Blood Destiny Series Book 2) by Helen Harper

Title: Bloodmagic
Author: Helen Harper
Series: Blood Destiny #2
Pages: 228
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

After escaping the claws of Corrigan, the Lord Alpha of the Brethren, Mack is trying to lead a quiet lonely life in Inverness in rural Scotland, away from anyone who might happen to be a shapeshifter. However, when she lands a job at an old bookstore owned by a mysterious elderly woman who not only has a familiar passion for herbal lore but also seems to know more than she should, Mack ends up caught in a maelstrom between the Ministry of Mages, the Fae and the Brethren.

Now she has to decide between staying hidden and facing the music, as well as confronting her real feelings for the green eyed power of Corrigan himself.

BloodMagic picks up a few months after the events that took place in Bloodfire. Mackenzie/Mack/Kitten/Red (for someone that doesn't like nick names she sure has a lot of them!) essentially left her family. Now she is on the run, just picking up odd jobs and making enough cash to stay alive. Eventually, she thinks she has found the solace she is looking for in a little town in Scotland. However, her past, and what she is has a way of catching up with her.

During this whole being on the run ordeal, she is starting to learn more about herself and her mysterious dragon blood (well 1/8 to be exact). But, as it would go, the more she learns about herself and her "powers," the more questions pop up that just need to be answered.

As with the first installment, Mackenzie has some major character development. She is actually somewhat complex. She has dimension! Her emotions and thoughts are often conflicting and she tries her best to do what is right by those that she cares about. Including those who, somewhere along the way have managed to wiggle their way into her heart without her consent...

Book Review: Bloodfire (Blood Destiny Book 1) by Helen Harper

Title: Bloodfire
Author: Helen Harper
Series: Blood Destiny #1
Pages: 246
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

Mack might be, to all intents and purposes, a normal looking human, but she lives with a pack of shapeshifters in Cornwall in rural England after being dumped there by her mother when she was just a young child. She desperately wants to be accepted by her surrogate family, not least because a lot of them hate her for merely being human, but for some reason her blood just won't allow the transformation to occur.

With a terrible temper to match her fiery red hair, Mack is extraordinarily useful in a fight, and when her pack alpha is brutally and abruptly murdered, she swears vengeance. Unfortunately, his murder also draws in the Brethren - the leaders of the shapeshifter world - who will slaughter everyone in Mack's small rural pack if they discover her true identity. Unfortunately Corrigan, the green-eyed muscle-bound Lord Alpha of the Brethren, doesn't let much slip by him...

Bloodfire isn't just another shifter book. It actually has everything! Vampires, gods, demi-gods, werepanthers, werewolves, and even werehamsters. Oh, and that's definitely not all, Harper manages to come up with all kinds of different creatures. Her imagination is just out of this world, and the descriptions are absolutely amazing!

There were definitely some crazy parts in Bloodfire, but the way Harper described things and the imagery developed actually made it believable (crazy, I know)! Her character Mackenzie is extremely developed. She is a fiery hot-head with a temper, but is also extremely loyal and caring. She will risk anything and everything to protect those that she loves. I dare you to read this book and not root for her!

I wish that I had gotten to know the other characters in the book better, but I guess I'll just have to read the next book to find out more. I mean it is a series, everything can't just be revealed in book 1. You need to be kept on your toes, and Harper does just that! I can't wait for more!

"I silently apologised to John for the lie but kind of also applauded myself for my genius."

"There were nineteen of us in total...It felt like a goddamn school outing. I wouldn't have been surprised if Staines had pulled out a little flag and started waving it around for us all to follow." 

Book Review: Second Grave on the Left (Charley Davidson Book 2) byDarynda Jones

Title: Second Grave on the Left
Author: Darynda Jones
Series: Charley Davidson #2
Pages: 316
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

If you hang around with dead people, life can get pretty complicated. Take it from Charley Davidson, part-time private investigator and full-time Grim Reaper. Complicated is her middle name. The deceased find her very sparkly. Demons find her irresistible. And one entity in particular wants to seduce her in every way possible.

When Charley and Cookie (her best friend/receptionist) have to track down a missing woman, the case is not quite as open and shut as they anticipate. Cookie's friend Mimi disappeared five days earlier. Mimi then sends Cookie a cryptic message telling Cookie to meet her at an nearby coffee shop. The coffee is brewing, but Mimi's still missing. There is, however, a clue Mimi left on the bathroom wall: a woman's name. Mimi's husband explains to them that his wife had been acting strange since she found out an old high school friend had been murdered. The same woman whose name Mimi had scribbled on the bathroom wall.

Meanwhile, Reyes Alexander Farrow (otherwise known as the Son of Satan. Yes. Literally) has left his corporeal body and is haunting Charley. He's left his body because he's being tortured by demons who want to lure Charley closer. But Reyes can't let that happen. Because if the demons get to Charley, they'll have a portal to heaven...well, let's just say it wouldn't be pretty.

Can Charley handle hot nights with Reyes and even hotter days tracking down a missing woman? Can she keep those she loves out of harm's way? And is there enough coffee and chocolate in the world to fuel her as she does?

Here is your signpost for the most hilarious read of the year: Second Grave on the Left.

In the second installment of the Charley Davidson series, Charley is up to her usual shenanigans. You know, drinking coffee, getting injured, and as always providing some snarky commentary.....the usual. After wrapping up the case she solved in First Grave on the Right, Charley has only a week to recuperate before she is dragged, and I mean literally dragged out of bed...in her bunny slippers, into another case.

With this new case, the stakes are even higher, because the missing person just so happens to be one of Cookie's friends. And she is in some major trouble. I couldn't even keep up with how many different men in suits were involved with this case!

However, if that's not enough, she still has the tall, dark, and mysterious Reyes Farrow to worry about. To put the icing on the cake so to speak, her dad is acting strange (stranger than usual anyway).

The case about Cookie's friend, Reyes Farrow, and a dad exhibiting abnormal behavior all caused Charlie, your favorite grim reaper, a ton (and I mean a TON) of problems. Which, of course made for an action packed story! I actually enjoyed this case a lot more than I did the case from the first book! This case had a few twists that I was definitely not expecting!

I found one quote from the book that just perfectly sums up Charley's attitude, "Is it sexy in here or is it just me?" Charley Davidson lives up to the name (crazy, I know!) and is most definitely my favorite grim reaper. I mean, come on, who knew the grim reaper had a sense of humor?

"Chocolate and coffee? Together? Whoever came up with that combination should have won a Nobel Peace Prize. Or at least a subscription to Reader's Digest."

"You're doing that weird thing you do."

"Sorry. I just can't seem to help myself. My brain is freaking out. Two predawn mornings in a row. It doesn't know what to think, how to act. I'll have a talk with it later. Perhaps get it into counseling."

"Denial really wasn't just a river in Egypt."

"...saying no to coffee would be like saying no to world peace."

"We were venturing into Denialville again, which was not really as fun as Margaritaville."

Book Review: First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson Book 1) by Darynda Jones

Title: First Grave on the Right
Author: Darynda Jones
Series: Charley Davidson #1
Pages: 310
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

This whole grim reaper thing should have come with a manual. Or a diagram of some kind. A flow chart would have been nice.

Charley Davidson is a part-time private investigator and full-time grim reaper. Meaning, she sees dead people. Really. And it's her job to convince them to "go into the light." But when these very dead people have died under less than ideal circumstances (like murder), sometimes they want Charley to bring the bad guys to justice. Complicating matters are the intensely hot dreams she's been having about an entity who has been following her all her life...and it turns out he might not be dead after all. In fact, he might be something else entirely. But what does he want with Charley? And why can't she seem to resist him? And what does she have to lose by giving in?

With scorching-hot tension and high-octane humor, First Grave on the Right is your signpost to paranormal suspense of the highest order.

Charley Davidson is definitely someone you do not want to mess with, and know I'm not talking about who you think I am. I am referring to Charley Davidson, Grim Reaper Extraordinaire. From an early age (a VERY early age) Charley has been able to not only see ghosts, but have actual conversations with them. Although she has yet been forced into an institution, she has made quite the reputation for herself.

Instead of avoiding the police, she works with them. She helps solve murders, kidnappings, you name it! Technically she runs her own private investigation company (consists of her & her best friend Cookie) and works with the police department as a consultant. It makes things easier.

As for the book, I had an absolute blast reading First Grave on the Right! One review I saw explained that stringing a bunch of wise-cracks together does not make a novel. Well I do agree with that review, stringing a bunch of wise-cracks together does not make a novel, it makes a HILARIOUSLY FUN novel!! I laughed my way through the entire book. And, it's not just one character that gets all the good one-liners, instead, quite a few of the characters have an actual sense of humor. In other words, not everyone is severely serious, stoic, and unemotional.

Charley Davidson herself is one of the funniest characters...and she absolutely LOVES coffee. Yay, I found my soul-sister!! I too feel like I need a caffeine drip! This book definitely kept things interesting, it was you usual who-done-it, but with a quirky supernatural twist! I mean grim reaper, come on! I cannot wait to just tackle the rest of the series (It's ten books and counting)! I'm really hoping to see a little more of Garrett, I just think there's a little more to him than what Charley thinks.

"I did that thing where you scratch your eyebrow and flip someone off at the same time. I'm good at multitasking like that."

"Sorry, Uncle Bob, I thought you were someone else."
"I'm often mistaken for Tom Selleck."

"I stood and walked around the desk so I could stand over him. Menacingly. Like Darth Vader, only with better lung capacity." 

Book Review: Opal (The Lux Series Book 3) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Opal
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: Lux Book 3
Pages: 382
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤

No one is like Daemon Black.

When he set out to prove his feelings for me, he wasn't fooling around. Doubting him isn't something I'll do again, and now that we've made it through the rough patches, well... There's a lot of spontaneous combustion going on.

But even he can't protect his family from the danger of trying to free those they love.

After everything, I'm no longer the same Katy. I'm different... And I'm not sure what that will mean in the end. When each step we take in discovering the truth puts us in the path of the secret organization responsible for torturing and testing hybrids, the more I realize there is no end to what I'm capable of. The death of someone close still lingers, help comes from the most unlikely source, and friends will become the deadliest of enemies, but we won't turn back. Even if the outcome will shatter our worlds forever.

Together we're stronger...and they know it.

What if I told you that Daemon gets even better? You're probably thinking no way that's impossible. But, in Opal, Daemon does just that. He is full of surprises that make you wish you had your very own Daemon more and more.

In Opal, Katy learns even more about the secret organization that has interest in the Luxen and their healing abilities. She has to learn all she can and prepare herself for what is to come to truly protect those she cares about. Along the way, she, Daemon, and the other Luxen finds themselves working alongside an unlikely character. The stakes are high and everyone is on edge, but Katy is no longer the timid person she used to be.

Usually when I read a series, the first book automatically becomes my favorite, but while reading Opal, I discovered that when it comes to the Lux series, that is definitely not the case. The things that Katy has went through have left their mark and she is no longer the same person that she previously was. She now knows that she will do anything to keep her loved ones safe, which actually kind of frightens her. So, in addition to seeing this new fierce Katy, you also get to see a different side of Daemon. He still has his jerk moments, but he has this gentler side that only those he truly cares about gets to see. I loved how much depth this gave his character. There is so much more to him than just the protective jerk you have come to know and love. He has a huge heart that only a select few get to see.

The fact that Armentrout made a reference to Dean Winchester just solidified Opal as my favorite. When I saw that name in the book I had to put the book down, pick it back up, do a double take, and then proceed to just repeat "Oh my God!" over and over again. Until I get my hands on Origin (the next book in this awesome series) I can only wonder how Armentrout is even going to top this book!

"Daemon was beautiful but prickly, like a Christmas cactus."

"Andrew never liked me. I don't even think he liked people in general. Or puppies. Or bacon."
"I preferred ones with cute kittens and llamas. And Dean Winchester." (there was no way I was not putting the Dean Winchester sentence on here!)

"Thought she said to leave the door open."
"It is. It's cracked. That's Open."

Book Review: Onyx (Lux Series Book 2) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Onyx
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: Lux Book 2
Pages: 366
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤

Being connected to Daemon Black sucks…

Thanks to his alien mojo, Daemon's determined to prove what he feels for me is more than a product of our bizarro connection. So I've sworn him off, even though he's running more hot than cold these days. But we've got bigger problems.

Something worse than the Arum has come to town…

The Department of Defense is here. If they ever find out what Daemon can do and that we're linked, I'm a goner. So is he. And there's this new boy in school who's got a secret of his own. He knows what's happened to me and he can help, but to do so, I have to lie to Daemon and stay away from him. Like that's possible. Against all common sense, I'm falling for Daemon. Hard.

But then everything changes…

I've seen someone who shouldn't be alive. And I have to tell Daemon, even though I know he's never going to stop searching until he gets the truth. What happened to his brother? Who betrayed him? And what does the DOD want from them--from me?

No one is who they seem. And not everyone will survive the lies…

If all aliens were easy on the eyes, and strangely both arrogant and caring, then I really don't think that I would object to an invasion. In other words if there is a group of aliens that are exactly like Daemon, then I would say come on in!

In Obsidian, Daemon was mostly the jerk that we all loved, and we rarely (just like Katy) got to see the more caring/sweeter side of him. But now, Daemon and Katy have some alien connection that Katy thinks could explain certain feelings. Daemon does like a challenge though, and will just have to prove Katy wrong!

Then a new guy with surfer good looks comes to town, and Katy thinks he may just have the normalcy that she craves, much to the dismay of our favorite jerk alien. But, normal may be just what Katy needs, because the big bad DOD has come to town, and their black Expeditions are everywhere.

There is no way you can go wrong with such a great plot, and Armentrout certainly does not. She instead goes one step further and completely knocks it out of the park! In addition to the great book that is Onyx, I was surprisingly blessed with a bonus scene! It's not really an extra scene, but at the end of the book, one of my favorite parts was retold...in Daemon's view! That right there only made me love this book that much more!

"Dog-eared pages were Antichrist of book lovers everywhere."

"Are you cold? Where's your jacket?"
"I don't like jackets."
"Did they do something terrible and unforgivable to you, too?"

"You have anger management problems. It's like a disease."
"There's a cure and it's called kicking your ass."

Book Review: Obsidian (Lux Series Book 1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Obsidian
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: Lux Book 1
Pages: 335
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤

Starting over sucks.

When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I'd pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring...until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.

And then he opened his mouth.

Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something...unexpected happens.

The hot alien living next door marks me.

You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon's touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I'm getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades.

If I don't kill him first, that is.

After a lengthy discussion with a girl in my Anatomy class, I decided I had to read Obsidian again. We talked about that book for a while, and I asked her if the rest of the series was good, and she said that it was pretty great. Over Christmas break my freshman year, I read both Obsidian, and the second book in the series, Onyx. I remembered that I really enjoyed it, it's just for some reason I never got around to finishing the series. And after talking to her about it, I knew that I had to. So, while I am still on hold for Just One Drop at the library, I decided to pick up and start Obsidian again.

Obsidian involves Katy, a girl who has just made the move from sunny Florida to some one stoplight town in West Virginia. Her mom decided that it was finally time to have a fresh start. After a very interesting encounter with one of her new neighbors, Katy is left fuming and decides that Daemon is practically the spawn of satan. As luck would have it though, he is one of the most attractive guys she has ever seen, and cannot help but become best friends with his sister, Dee. The more Katy gets to know them, the more she starts to think something is off about them. Turns out Katy is not as crazy as she thought, and they are actual aliens, from a galaxy far far away...

I cannot give enough praise for this book!! Armentrout created a very kick-ass character that is absolutely without a doubt one of my favorite characters...ever. Not only does Katy love books, but she is very witty and not afraid to put Daemon in his place. She stands up for what she believes in and will do whatever it takes to save the people she cares about. The tension between her and her favorite jerk, Daemon is undeniable. They have some major chemistry! I loved how they got under each other's skin and was often left laughing at their little arguments. I cannot be more disappointed in myself for not having this series as a priority and finishing it when I read Obsidian the first time. Oh well, I just had to re-read it again. Hmm, the things I do for good books...

"The day my internet was hooked up was better than having a hot guy check out my butt and ask for my phone number."

"Yeah, it's kind of a hobby. What's yours? Kicking puppies?"

"To Daemon, my arrival was the beginning of the end. The apocalypse. Kat-mageddon."

"Oh, you're an expert in crazy people now?"
"A month with you and I feel I have a master's degree in the subject."