ARC Review: Stray Magic by Kelly Meding

Stray Magic is the first book in Kelly Meding’s new series. It centers on a half djinn/half human U.S. Marshal in the Paranormal Investigations Unit, Shiloh Harrison; which quickly brings to mind two of my favorite authors Shiloh Walker and Kim Harrison. The whole book reminds me of different elements of other Urban Fantasy series and its own unique elements wonderfully blended together to make a very addictive world. There were also moments that brought to mind a movie and I was screaming at the book, “What’s in the BOX!” knowing full and well what was in the box and another part that had me thinking of the show Lost Girl which had me bemoaning the main character cause I knew what would happen. It was a fast paced story something is always happening and as it is in first person this all happens to Shiloh. It takes me a bit to adjust to first person especially if I haven’t read one in a while but I quickly adjusted to this one, it definitely feels like she’s showing me that story rather than telling me, which for me is a good thing. The book starts and it kind of just throws you in and vaguely explains things along the way, she explains enough without over explaining. I understand that there is a short story that predates this one I really think it needs to be re-released.

Shiloh was supposed to start her long weekend after a long stakeout but instead of spending some time with her boyfriend she gets called onto a case. Shiloh’s teammates: the incubus Novak, the dhampir Kathleen, the skin walker (and ex-boyfriend) Jaxon and their boss Julius, human. A bunch of vampires took a trailer park hostage, they can’t find their boss, and the vampire master Tennyson has asked for help regarding a bunch of vampires and werewolves that have gone missing. Shiloh spends the whole book trying to figure out what’s going on and getting closer to Tennyson who asked for help and is also helping Shiloh in her investigation. Along the way other things happen and her mom and dad get sucked into the mess as well. The story really takes you on a ride that doesn’t let up.

The characters were wonderfully done and the plot was fantastic. I love that while Shiloh is a badass, tough U.S. Marshal she’s also very emotional. She’s emotionally invested in the whole case the case becomes very personal to the whole team and she’s not afraid of her emotions or embarrassed by them. It also gives the reader a better insight into the other characters and how she perceives them helps them seem more real. Overall, it’s a very addictive story that left me cursing at the end because while this case ended there were some loose string left open for the next book.

**ARC provided by Publisher**

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Audiobook Review: Third Grave Dead Ahead by Darynda Jones, Narrated by Lorelei King

My love affair with Charley Davidson continues with Third Grave Dead Ahead. Maybe it is not so much love as it is idol worship. Charley is smart, sexy and hilarious. She is such a smart alec and always says the perfect thing in each situation. Even if I could think of that perfect wise-ass comment, I'd never be brave enough to utter it when faced with a knife-wielding criminal. Maybe that is one of Charley's many grim reaper superpowers – a smart comment for every occasion.

In Third Grave Dead Ahead, a guilty doctor hires Charley to find his wife. When I say guilty, I mean that Charley uses her empathic ability to determine the doctor can't be trusted. The hunt for his wife takes both supernatural and natural detective skills and is marked with several twists. Nothing is what it seems.

I have to mention Artemis. Artemis is one of the motorcycle gang's guard dogs. Guard dog – yeah right. If you have ever had a Rottweiler for a pet, you know how sweet and playful they can be. Unfortunately, they get too much bad press. So thank you Ms. Jones for your portrayal of this wonderful breed.

After reading Third Grave Dead Ahead, here is what I have decided:

1. Charley's dad cannot be trusted. He proved that in Second Grave on the Left and does nothing to disprove that opinion in this story.
2. Cookie is a sweetheart.
3. Uncle Bob always comes through.
4. Garrett always comes through.
5. Reyes (aka Son of Satan) is an ass. I mean it. I don't care if he is gorgeous. He is mean, manipulative and pissy. Really, what does Charley see in him?

In Third Grave Dead Ahead, there were a lot of things that happened that I did not like. See numbers 1 and 5 above. Also, a main character dies. However, upon further reflection, I have come to the conclusion that these events are a necessary part of the Charley Davidson lore and will come to be important to the ongoing story.

Reading the Charley Davidson series in order is the best way to enjoy them. But if Third Grave Dead Ahead is your introduction to the series, it can still be enjoyed. There is enough background provided to avoid getting lost.

My favorite way to enjoy the Charley Davidson series is by listening to audiobooks. As usual, Lorelie King delivers a narration full of nuance and heart. Her interpretation is perfect and I really can't imagine this series being experienced in other way other than audiobook.

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ARC Review: House of the Rising Sun by Kristen Painter

In 2068, New Orleans is overrun by vampires. Olivia Goodwin, Augustine Robelais’ adopted mother figure, has been killed by them. Her estranged daughter, Harlow, comes to town to collect her inheritance. She needs almost a million dollars to pay a fine and stay out of jail. The sticking point between mother and daughter is Harlow’s father’s identity. None of the court papers mention him. She and Augustine inherit equal halves of the house and require them to live together. Both of them are fae. Harlow’s powers are so strong she wears gloves and avoids touching people. She can read memories. When the Guardian of the city is killed, Augustine is tapped to fill the post. He reluctantly accepts and recruits a collection of other spirited beings to help him. In the meantime, Harlow is contacted by her father and realizes her mother was right to keep him a secret. He is a raptor and an evil man. He tries to blackmail Harlow into helping him. Living in the close quarters adds to the attraction between Augustine and Harlow. They have a shared history because of Olivia. She has brought them together. The witches hate living under fae rules and some have aided the vampires. Olivia lives in a mirror and talks to Augustine. She is able to offer some insight into what they are up against with the vampires. I was ready for the big showdown and the story ended. To be continued…

Augustine is a compelling character. Abandoned by his father and disowned by his mother, he’s found by Olivia. He has to master his powers without any help. He takes on responsibilities for the safety of the city and his kind. There’s no payment, it’s expected of him to risk his life. He’s honorable toward Harlow out of respect for her mother, but some hot kisses hint of his resolve may break soon.

Harlow is interesting because her power is so strong. She can relive the history of objects as well. Knives, black magic crosses, and clothing are brought to her to read. Her goal to find her father back fires big time and makes her sorry for the time lost with her mother. She decides to use her gift to find her mother’s killers.

Augustine and Harlow make an excellent couple. Their talents play off each other and their banter is full of special meanings. There are many interesting secondary characters which will populate the future books. Plus the title is a hat tip to the Animals' classic song.
Make yourself at home.

**ARC provided by Publisher**

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Review: Summoning the Night by Jenn Bennett

After a thirty year hiatus, the Sandpiper Park Snatcher is back. Cady Bell and her boyfriend, Lon Butler, have been recruited to track him down. The head of the Hellfire Club, Ambrose Dare, wants the Snatcher found because he’s targeting children of the secretive demon club. Lon’s son, Jupe, is in danger too. Jupe is a coming of age demon. His knack is persuasion. An interesting talent for a teenage boy to possess. He and Cady are becoming friends. Jupe even has her symbol tattooed to his back. The manhunt centers on those in search of the transmutation spell, becoming half human and half demon. Demons have the ability to travel over space and time. Cady has acquired ancient powers as well. As a magician and moon child, she can bind demons and send them away. They find one person who escaped the Snatcher. She offers up an important clue, he has two different color eyes. The Hellfire Club employed a magician with that attribute. Cady and Lon find him, but he’s just a pawn for a more powerful demon. Children continue to be taken and Halloween is coming. Plus a traitor inside the Hellfire ranks increases the risks for everyone. Will Cady and Lon be able to stop the Snatcher?

This is the second book I have read in this series. The story line continues to be strong. Cady and Lon are becoming a family. Jupe is welcoming and hopeful Cady stays with his dad. The relationship isn’t rushed. Lon listens to her opinion and recognizes her strengths. They are a couple still getting to know each other and experimenting with how to use their powers together. Cady’s friends add humor and rivals for Lon. Cady is on a learning curve about her strength against others’ talents. She would make any man a force to be reckoned with and everyone knows it.

Cady doesn’t see her allure. Her otherness has been her burden and her gift. Lon accepts all, encourages her, and never takes advantage. They make good role models for Jupe, a formidable front against evil, and a cute couple. Highly recommended.

**Copy provided by Publisher**

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ARC Review: Dancing With the Devil by Keri Arthur

Dancing With the Devil is one of Arthur’s earlier works and while finding this book not as cleanly written as her later titles it was still a very entertaining beginning to her Nikki and Michael urban fantasy series.

Nikki James grew up on the streets. A tough life made even more so by her telekinetic gift. Working as a PI now gives her the opportunity to use her power for good. Accepting a case from a wealthy father looking for his daughter Nikki quickly discovers that she’s passed through a door into a world in which her idea of evil pales exponentially to the reality that threatens to take her mind, body, and soul.

Michael Kelly is a vampire, of the non-human blood drinking sort. Being three centuries old and working endlessly to curb his bloodlust has left him in control of his urges, but in turn viewing the world in dim interest. Hunting down a dangerous and vicious vampire named Jasper was one of the drivers in his existence to keep him going. Working for the Damask Circle, a ruling body over being of a paranormal nature, generally let him be. However seemingly times were changing and he found himself tasked with keeping a particular woman with powerful psychic gifts alive.

Drawn together by danger, duty, and simmering chemistry Nikki and Michael work together to solve the case of the missing girl Monica Trevgard. Both carry their fair share of baggage and trust issues. This plus the several obstacles the outside world throws between these two coming to realize and accept what their feelings for each other mean is a long and arduous process. There are a few moments of sizzle and brief glimpses of emotions that lead me to believe that their romance beginning at a slow burn will grow to something solid and steamy as the series progresses. Personally in urban fantasy laced with romance I prefer the natural build up and though there were several moments when I wanted to scream at these characters to ‘get over it already’ I truly did enjoy reading their journey so far and continue to wish for their happiness in the future.

If you are a fan of Keri Arthur and urban fantasy in general I definitely suggest you check out this book. It’s not as well fleshed out and crisply written as her later works but it was a really good read. Also, it is always a treat for me to see how authors grow in depth and skill throughout their career and for being one of her first I think it is great to get such a sense of potential in early publications. I am looking forward to reading the next installment in this series and see how these characters grow.

**ARC provided by NetGalley**

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ARC Review: Vicious Moon by Lee Roland

Vicious Moon is the third book in the Earth Witches series by Lee Roland. The story centers around Nyx Ianira. An ex-mercenary who found work in the field of private investigations. She’s also an Earth Witch, but not having much interest in devoting her life to mastering her craft as a child, and therefore a poor reaction from the local Coven leaving her with a sour taste in her mouth she tends to keep herself as far from that particular group of people as possible. All this however blows up in her face as out of the blue she finds herself being hauled home against her will by the Sisters of Justice. The police force of the Witch World.

Upon reaching her childhood home she learns from her Grandmother that her sister has gone missing. Gran trusting only her to locate her and bring her home safe she quickly makes her way to Duivel, Missouri. A town which keeps many secrets. Being home to a couple Sisters of Justice, a handful of Earth Witches, a troublesome gang, an organized merc unit, and oh...a demon. Just to name a few. Nyx struggles against the maelstrom of characters and obstacles thrown into her path fighting to keep her away from finding her. Eventually she discovers that if she wants to get out of Duivel with her sister safe and sound, she’ll have to work to master her magic use the tremulous ties she’s made in the community.

One of these ties is Etienne. Head of the mercenary group who had taken it upon himself to keep an eye on her, and try to steer her clear of danger. If nothing else he was there to help her out of perilous situations. Etienne was also the love interest of our heroine and though there were some steamy moments, for the most part what I witnessed was his non-subtle hatred and mistrust of witches, as well as cold indifference to our heroine’s plight. Don’t get me wrong. I enjoy experiencing characters grow throughout a story. Transcend their scars from the past and become the better for it, but for me this didn’t happen here. The romance was seemingly an afterthought to the main plotline that drove this story. It didn’t seem to connect our heroine and hero in anyway other than being in the right place at the right time to itch a particular scratch. I would have liked to see these two come together a little more naturally. Maybe then it wouldn’t have been such a struggle for these two to find some common ground to grow from.

There were some really interesting aspects in this story revolving around the world this town exists in. Magical practices and beings, portals to other dimensions and the creepy crawlers that call those places home, and a feeling of much more to come from this author in the future. If you are a fan of Urban Fantasy of the magically witchy variety then I can easily suggest you pick this one up and give it a go. If you like your reads to rate a little higher on the romance scale then this may not be the one for you.

**ARC provided by NetGalley**

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ARC Review: A Cursed Embrace by Cecy Robson

A Cursed Embrace was not a read for the faint of heart. It’s been a while since an author was able to pull me in and wrap me around the hearts of the main characters. I experienced both the highs and lows as Celia and Aric faced off against their feelings for each other, demon attacks, and various other obstacles thrown at them. I always try my best to avoid spoilers, so I’ll just warn you that if you are like me and get emotionally invested in well written characters...it’s going to be a rollercoaster.

Picking up just a few days after the previous novel, Sealed with a Curse, the Wird sisters are spending time with each other, their love interests, and trying to get back to their not so ordinary...ordinary life. After almost losing their lives fighting to help the Vampire Master Misha save his Family a brief respite is all they’re looking for. Well, except for Taran and Celia who’s Wolves of interest are leaving them in sour moods complete with stretched nerves and in Celia’s case...itchy claws. No word from Aric, Pack Alpha and Celia’s love interest, was truly eating her up and had her questioning whether there’d been anything there at all. Though the stint of silence ends ubruptly as a rather shady were-raccon ends up dead on the Sisters’ front porch.

We find that this occurrence has been linked to several murders in which Aric and his Pack were investigating. The Wolves being severely protective over the sisters decide that it is time for them to stick close and make sure those they care for are kept safe. Though, it isn’t just the Wolves who’ve decided it their responsibility to take care of the girls...but Misha and the local Vampire Family stand more than ready to take things into their own hands if the situation grows to require it. At this point in the story it became clear that there is a slight love triangle between Aric, Celia, and Misha. As far as triangles go however this one doesn’t stay staring you in the face through the entire book.

From this moment on the book picks up pace as danger and demons lash out at the gifted gals working to capture, use and abuse them for nefarious plans to wreak havoc on the world at large. With both Family and Pack at their sides they face each obstacle with strength, courage, and concern for their family and friends. I read this book in one sitting and though the ending left me with little closure, it surely had me itching to get my hands on the next installment. Also, I’m looking forward to reading the first book so that I can learn how this series began, how the characters I’ve grown to care for came together, and basically just have the opportunity to spend a little more time in the world Robson created.

If you are a fan of Urban Fantasy loaded with action, alpha males and kick butt females, and enough emotional turmoil for any romance junkie to sink their teeth into I suggest you pick up this title.

**ARC provided by Publisher**

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ARC Review: Fifth Grave Past the Light by Darynda Jones

Fifth Grave Past the Light is the fifth installment in Jones’ Charley Davidson series. While reading I asked myself over and over how it’s taken me so long to find this series? This book grabbed my attention from the start and is still refusing to let go. So of course I will now be heading straight over to my book dealer of choice to locate and purchase the previous installments.

Charley Davidson was born a Grim Reaper. Though life expectancy for one of her kind tends to run low she’s lived to see her mid-twenties and still kicking. Being a major feat in itself she still manages to be a walking trouble magnet to the Nth degree as well as a sense of humor that leaves those she meets with only two choices, love her or hate her. Personally I was immediately on team love as she had my cheeks aching from grinning like an idiot from one well placed ridiculous comment to the next. She keeps the power on by working as a PI and consultant to the local authorities. Cook, her quirky and also hilarious assistant, keeps her on schedule and generally coaxed into a positive mood with an endless supply of caffeine.

On top of Reaper duties, criminal investigations, and staking out cheating spouses she’s also got a man on her mind that won’t seem to stop leaving post-it notes on her door. Easy for him as he’s taken up residence in the apartment next door. Troublesome for her him not only being the son of Satan himself, but also a current person of interest in an arson case her Uncle brought her in on. Reyes is one sexy sonofa- well, let’s just say he’s hot in more ways than one. And to Charley’s delight seems just as fixed on her as she is on him. The chemistry between these two was scorching and left me extremely interested in going back to read the previous books to see how this relationship began and grew to the point I got to experience in this story.

From what I gathered there were several recurring supporting characters from the previous books. All of whom added a great amount of depth into Charley’s character as well as flesh out the varying plotlines sprinkled through the story.

This was an extremely entertaining read. A complete package containing a steamy-as-hell romance, mystery surrounding an apartment full of ghosts, danger, action, and enough quirky quips to leave the most stoic of readers with aching sides. If you have read Jones’ previous works then I am more than willing to bet this will be another must-read for you. For those new to Jones’ writing...if you are a fan of super quick witted strong female leads, and an alpha male that can make you melt this is a definite title to get your hands on.

**ARC provided by the Author**

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ARC Review: Roaring Midnight by Colleen Gleason

Roaring Midnight was a definite treat to read and a great addition to her urban fantasy series the Gardella Vampire Chronicles, though this is the first book in which we meet Macey Denton a.k.a. Macey Gardella on which this book in centered. This was my first opportunity to read Gleason’s writing and I’m delighted to say that I will definitely be checking out her other novels as well as the upcoming additions to this series.

The time period is set in Capone’s era. Flappers, spiffy spats, gangsters, and vampires. Gleason did an excellent job pulling you into the world she’s created including setting descriptions, clothing, and slang-filled dialogue. It was as if I could taste the boot-legged whisky and smell the cigar smoke as I followed Macey’s story.

Macey Denton began this tale as a small town girl who’d realized her dream and moved to the big city of Chicago. Working her dream job at the University Library and spending her evenings dancing the night away with her friends. She was in love with the city she called home, and pretty happy in general where her life was concerned. Then an extremely old book managed to end up in her hands, inside of which she read of vampires and those who hunted them. A far cry from the classic Dracula story which held her interest, then in turn gave her night terrors about all those creatures who go bump in the night. A few short days later a stranger approached her at the library asking for Macey Gardella, Gardella being the family name the untitled old book had centered around, and from that point on her life was irrevocably changed.

Macey was faced with many trials in this story and you were given the opportunity to see her grow in strength and character in both her failures and successes. She’s stubborn, loyal, and strong-willed yet remains aware of her weakness and has no problem admitting to them. She’s human, and her compassion and hopes and dreams for her future work to keep her grounded in her new world full of monsters. I really liked this heroine and am truly looking forward to seeing how she’ll grow into in the next installment and what affects it will have to her life and calling.

There were several male characters in this story that caught Macey’s eye. Sebastian and Chas were both drool-worthy in my opinion but Grady was the one who ended up stealing her heart. Their romance had the perfect recipe of banter, chemistry, and steam for a successful set-up to an on-going series. Immediately after finishing this book I had to go look to see when the next book would be released as I am definitely looking forward to reading more about these two.

To sum up I found Roaring Midnight to be a refreshing take on the ‘Vampire Hunter’ theme. I’ve always had a bit of interest in the twenties and Gleason did an excellent job bringing the city ran by Capone to life in my mind. If you enjoy relatable characters, vampires, those who hunt them, a sweet yet complicated romance, and of course gangsters toting tommy-guns I highly recommend you pick this title up.

**ARC provided by Author**

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ARC Review: Bitter Disenchantment by Shawntelle Madison

This novella focuses on Aggie McClure, the outspoken red-headed sidekick of Natalya Stravinsky, the main character of Coveted. This story is written as a prequel to the series letting the reader in on the events surrounding Aggie’s arrival in South Toms River, New Jersey.

Having not read Coveted yet this was my first time experiencing these characters as well as Madison’s writing. I am looking forward to checking out the series now since I found this book to be a quick tease leaving me curious to discover what happens next to the characters I was introduced to.

Aggie was looked on as having it all. Being the only offspring of the Alpha werewolf of the Manhattan Pack and destined heir. Though in reality she was faced with many obstacles that some readers could connect to. Having been born with her father wishing she was a boy, dealing with the unhappy separation of her parents, as well as being forced into an arranged marriage.

Determined to face the trials set before her and emerge the victor Aggie takes her life into her own hands and makes some incredibly difficult choices. She’s fighting for everything she holds dear, including a future where she gets to live her life in a manner of her own choosing.

Madison has created a very strong heroine both in body and mind. This story was a smooth read, full of plots that added in the growth of Aggie’s character. Allowing the reader the opportunity to see what adversities and choices she had to face to become the person she is in the Coveted series. Action, romance, and mystery are all combined to give you a well fleshed out story. If you are a fan of Madison’s Coveted series I definitely suggest you read this as I think it will add to the overall experience. If like me you are new to this author I still say go ahead and check this title out. It could quite possibly turn you onto a new series to follow as it happily did for me.


**ARC provided by NetGalley**

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ARC Review: Runes by Ednah Walters

Runes is the first novel in Ednah Walter’s Runes series. Being a young adult urban fantasy novel I was a little hesitant to pick this title up seeing how the synopsis appeared far too similar to the many recently released books in this genre. But, after the first few pages I was hooked and after finishing it, so thankful that I gave this story a chance.

One thing that stood out at the beginning of this story was our leading lady, Raine Cooper, was written with seemingly more maturity than the rest of her friends and classmates. I feel this worked for the story as she was still in the process of dealing with her feelings surrounding her missing father. Her mother working crazy hours to keep the family business afloat often leaving her home alone to care for herself. Anyone dealing with family issues of this sort would tend to age rather quickly, and her focus on her schoolwork and favorite extra-curricular activities as a means of coping was very believable.

Out of the blue Raine meets her new neighbor Torin. Handsome, mysterious, amusingly arrogant, and an immediate thorn in her side from that point on. From their first meeting she can’t deny that there’s something about him that pulls her towards him, calls to her, but he is a stranger and her trust is hard won. Though, try as she might to keep her distance Raine is quickly drawn into a world of magic, danger, and hidden secrets from her own past that will forever leave her life changed.

This story had a mostly even pace and kept me reaching for the next page. Lots of twists and turns, and a little Norse mythology that added originality to the main plot line. Raine and Torin’s relationship grew throughout the book and it was a joy to watch them recognize and come to terms with the feelings they had for each other. Enough angst added to get you more than a little frustrated at the two for fighting what they wanted from each other, but more than enough to take them out of insta-love territory and little enough that the story did not drag and leave you wanting to give up on them altogether.

I really liked the fact that this story was set in my own backyard, so to speak. Just outside of Portland, Oregon, and one scene in particular taking place at Multnomah Falls which is one of my favorite places to visit on a warm summer day. The relationships Raine has with her mother and two best friends were well written and added a lot of depth in the story, as well as Raine’s character growth in general. It was nice to see them brought along for the ride, and always there for their friend.

I found this book to be an enjoyable read. The ending was not to my particular taste, quite a cliffhanger, but did create a need for me to pick up the second installment in this series upon its release. The writing was well done and I truly found myself wanting to know what comes next for these two characters that I grew to care about. If you enjoy a sweet young adult romance sprinkled with a little magic and myth I suggest you check this one out.

**ARC provided by NetGalley**


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ARC Review: Werewolves Be Damned by Stacey Kennedy

I have to say that I liked this book, but I didn't love it. For me it is on the higher side of 3 stars. Nexi is thrust into a world filled with things that she never knew existed when her adopted parents are suddenly murdered. She finds out that she is the daughter of a guardian and a witch and she is half of each, as well as the fact that there are werewolves and vampires. As she begins to learn and train to be a Guardian, she is on a single minded quest to find the werewolves that killed her parents and have her revenge.

Kyden the son of the most powerful guardian, agrees to oversee her training and from the beginning it is clear that he is interested in more than just training Nexi. He is strong and confident, and has an intense urge to protect Nexi. Nexi on the other hand was more impulsive and immature. She was always running off thinking that she would be fine on her own, even without training to use her new found abilities. I felt like the two of them could have had more interactions and built a stronger connection. To me, it was almost as if the book tried to rush through everything and could have been longer. I would have liked to see more of Kyden and Nexi really getting to know each other and go through the beginning stages of their relationship. Their bond and relationship seemed to almost be just a side story in her quest for vengeance.

I did however really enjoy the world that Stacey Kennedy has created! She did a wonderful job introducing the reader to the Otherworld and setting up the series for future books. I am really intrigued by the different groups and hope that she expands on those as the series progresses. I'm especially interested in the werewolves and the witches. I think that she has really opened up a ton of possibilities for those two groups!

Overall, this book was action packed and those scenes were great! The author really seemed to excel in that aspect. If you are looking for supernatural and action, this is a must read! But if you are looking for a well developed romance and an all consuming relationship, I probably wouldn't recommend it. Most of the relationship really seemed to take place in the last few chapters of the book, instead of over the entirety. I would say this is a promising start to a new fantasy series with a little romance thrown in.

**ARC provided by Publisher**

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Review: Frost Burned by Patricia Briggs

Frost Burned is the seventh book in Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series. I have been a fan of Mercy’s since it all began in the first book ‘Moon Called,’ so I was really excited for the opportunity to return to her world and see what new adventures/adversities she would be presented with this time. Being a Walker, or coyote shifter, Mercy is like an extra-heavy duty trouble magnet.

On top of being a coyote shifter Mercy is married to Adam Hauptman, alpha werewolf of the local pack. The story begins with an innocent ‘Black Friday’ shopping trip with her step-daughter Jesse. However the outing ends quickly as they get in a fender-bender that totals Mercy’s beloved VW Rabbit. This occurs at about the 4% mark of the book, after which this novel quickly picks up the pace as Mercy discovers that her mate, and entire pack have seemingly disappeared leaving very little trace for her to follow.

Knowing that Adam would never leave her on his own accord, and would definitely never do so to his daughter, Mercy immediately sets out to discover what has caused their disappearance and do whatever is necessary to bring her family home safe and sound. She may not be as strong as a werewolf, but in this book we truly get to see her do more than bare her teeth and snarl. Living up to her role as Alpha’s mate she acts with intelligence, cunning, and a vicious ferocity that has been glimpsed in previous installments but never to this degree. There are several returning characters from the previous novels which were a total delight. Also, some very interesting new tricks arise in regards to Mercy and Adam’s mate bond.

I have really enjoyed reading this series. Mercy is a strong female lead and not only survives but thrives in this world full of danger without being written in as top dog in the food chain. She lacks in strength, magic, and other traits that the other non-human characters possess, but she’s swift in mind and body and has surrounded herself with a great support system of friends and family.

In summary this was a great fast paced read. Mystery, action, and a loving couple who will do anything in their power to keep each other, and their loved ones safe. Though this book can be read stand alone I do recommend you first read the previous ones in the series to get the full back story on these characters and how they’ve grown to be who they are and what they mean to each other. I loved this book and can’t wait to read the next in the series.

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