Review: Don't Kill the Messenger by Eileen Rendahl

Title: Don't Kill The Messenger

Author: Eileen Rendahl

Series: Messenger #1

Publisher: Ace

Publication date: 28 Feb 2012

Format: Paperback | 336 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

Melina Markowitz is a Messenger, a go-between for the paranormal forces and supernatural creatures that move unseen among 'normal' human beings. Problem is, when a girl's an intermediary, it's hard not to get caught in the middle…

If Melina doesn't deliver, the stakes are life and death. So when ninjas steal an envelope from her, she must find it at all costs. It contains talismans created by Taoist priests to control the kiang shi - Chinese vampires unearthed from tombs beneath the Bok Kai Temple - who are attacking rival gang members in an attempt to spark a street war.

He may look more like a surfer than a cop but Ted Goodnight is dead serious about investigating the surge in gang violence, only he doesn't believe in the supernatural. It's up to Melina to change his mind - without blowing her cover…

My thoughts:

I'm a big fan of urban fantasy so I was very excited when I came round to reading this. In the more enjoyable reads, there's a whole lot of world building involved where I can get lost on the best of days. Then there's a ton of great characters that make me wish they were real and we could have big hangouts where we share the latest gossip. Who needs real friends right?

Unfortunately though, Don't Kill The Messenger fell short on quite a few things. It became a little bit of a chore to sit and read it after a while. I didn't find it a bad read necessarily, it was still an okay read, but it fell short of the mark to make it one of those books I can keep coming back to.

What it came down to, for me, was the characters. I couldn't take Melina seriously half the time. I really liked her at first - she had the whole hard done by attitude but she still did what she had to in order to get by. She seemed really mature, working three jobs, avoiding things that go bump in the night and giving an all round great impression. But when it came down to her making decisions that would essentially affect every character in the story, she had the common sense of a teenager. Even a teenager is pushing it to be honest.

I also don't understand what point in the story vampires and werewolves became her best friends. It was yet another case of me getting the wrong impression. I was excited by the prospect of reading a book where the vampires and other creatures typical to this type of read were not of the friendly and 'I'm a normal person I just happen to feed on arteries or turn into a big cuddly dog' variety. That all changed though when they turned into the 'I'm a normal person I just happen to feed on arteries or turn into a big cuddly dog' variety. I had none of the feel of spine tingly goosebumps I usually associate with urban fantasy reads.

The plot wasn't anything special. There were no twists that pulled me further into the story, nor were there characters in mortal peril to make me anxious for their wellbeing. It was okay - the gangs and the police aspect of the plot was a little cliched for my liking but there was plenty of action to keep me going.

What I did like about this book was the general idea of it. I really loved the idea of a Messenger going between vampires and werewolves e.t.c. It made a lot of sense and I thought it had so much potential. It wasn't really developed until the plot got underway, so that was a little disappointing, but I enjoyed that aspect of the story. Especially the imp with the flute - that was really funny.

Overall, I thought this book was okay. If you're new to the urban fantasy genre, I definitely wouldn't recommend starting off with this book but as usual, this is just my opinion, you may really enjoy this read.

 

My rating: 5/10

 

Eileen Rendahl:

Goodreads 

 

Messenger:

1. Don't Kill The Messenger
2. Dead on Delivery
3. Dead Letter Day

Review: Spell Bound by Kelley Armstrong

Title: Spell Bound

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Series: Women of the Otherworld #12

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 26 Jun 2012

Format: Paperback | 352 pages

Genre: Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Savannah Levine is in danger. That's not usually a problem. But, caught in the grip of a disturbing and violent murder case, Savannah swore to give up her unique gifts if it would save an innocent young girl. Little did she know that someone - or something - was listening… Now she has no idea how to restore her powers, just when she needs them the most.

In this compelling, fast-paced new thriller. Savannah has to face a host of deadly enemies bent on destroying not only her but the very fabric of the supernatural world. As dark forces gather, Savannah isn't just fighting for her life, but for everything and everyone she loves.

My thoughts:

Spell Bound picks up where Waking the Witch left off, Savannah realises she's lost her powers. As well as dealing with a witch hunter and a supernatural group hell bent on ruling the world and putting humans in their place, Savannah has to race to find out how to get her powers back before she puts everyone she loves in danger. Oh and Adam… FINALLY!

I loved this one. Savannah has finally come into her own as a character. All of her faults were made evident, some by herself and some through others saying so - she admitted to them and she tried her best to change them. She was made all the better for it and it was brilliant.

While this book did sometimes feel like a 'filler' book for the series, I loved the hints that the author gave of things to come. The last couple of books in the series have had a completely different feel to them in that you can tell things are coming to a close and there's going to be some kind of big fight or a war to round everything off. This book pretty much just made me very, very excited to read the last book in the series and I think that may have been the intended goal.

Overall there isn't really much to say about this one. It was a typical Armstrong novel with plenty of action and suspense but it had a new twist with more character development than a complex plot. That being said, the plot is most definitely going to carry on to the last book so I can't wait to see how it's resolved.

My rating: 9/10

Kelley Armstrong:

 

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

  Women of the Otherworld:

 

1. Bitten
2. Stolen
3. Dime Store Magic
4. Industrial Magic
5. Haunted
6. Broken
7. No Humans Involved
8. Personal Demon
9. Living with the Dead
10. Frostbitten
11. Waking the Witch
12. Spell Bound
13. Thirteen

Review: Waking the Witch by Kelley Armstrong

Title: Waking the Witch

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Series: Women of the Otherworld #11

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 07 Jul 2011

Format: Paperback | 336 pages

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

When three young women are found dead - apparent victims of ritual murder - the small, fading town of Columbus is shaken to its core. But things are about to turn even more strange and sinister…

Pivate investigator Savannah Levine can handle 'strange and sinister'. As the daughter of a black witch, she has a lot of power running through her veins, and she's not afraid to use it. But her arrival in town has not gone unnoticed. Savannah may think she's tracking down a murderer, but could she be the killer's next target?

My thoughts:

Waking the Witch features Savannah Levine, the ward of Paige and Lucas. In previous books we've slowly been able to read about Savannah growing up, but now she's let loose as an adult, going solo and taking on her first murder case without Paige or best friend Adam breathing down her neck.

 

I love Savannah's character. I always have done. She's feisty, angry at the world and she doesn't care what anybody thinks of her - apart from Paige maybe. I love the strong heroine who puts up a front but knows she has so many flaws. Savannah is that girl - she offends people with no problem afterwords, but for her to disappoint those she loves? The guilty feelings come rushing out when she's alone with her thoughts. I love it.

 

What I enjoyed most about this read was the fact that it was the first book told through Savannah's eyes - in her point of view. I enjoyed reading how she got in trouble occasionally when she was younger and she did help out Paige a couple of times, but this book took it to a new level. She's 21 now where before she was too young to do much investigative work. I enjoyed her in the adult world where she voiced her opinions without anybody to tell her any different. She got her chance to shine and I loved reading all about it.

 

The plot was pretty much what makes a Kelley Armstrong novel. It was very heavy on the crime solving side of things which did have a couple of new twists involved and of course, full of supernatural elements. Also, par for the course, it was packed full of suspense and nail biting action. 

 

All in all I liked this addition to the series. I hope there's a lot more of Savannah to come.

 

My rating: 9/10

 

Kelley Armstrong:

 

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

  

Women of the Otherworld:

 

1. Bitten
2. Stolen
3. Dime Store Magic
4. Industrial Magic
5. Haunted
6. Broken
7. No Humans Involved
8. Personal Demon
9. Living with the Dead
10. Frostbitten
11. Waking the Witch
12. Spell Bound
13. Thirteen

Review: Frostbitten by Kelley Armstrong

Title: Frostbitten

Author: Kelley Arsmtrong

Series: Women of the Otherworld #10

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 06 May 2010

Format: Paperback | 416 pages

Genre: Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

After years of struggle. Elena Michaels has finally accepted her life as a werewolf, and learned how to control her wild side.

At least, that's what she believes when she sets off to investigate a series of gruesome murders outside Anchorage. The truth, however, is more complicated. Trapped in a frozen, unforgiving terrain, Elena is forced to confront a deadly secret, and her own, untamed nature…

My thoughts:

A routine mission for the Pack soon throws Elena Michaels in the deep end as she travels to Anchorage, Alaska to apprehend the mutt responsible for multiple killings. Alaska soon turns out to be more than it seems when strange lights appear in the forest and talk of strange beast sightings has the resident werewolves talking. 

After reading 10 books in this series I have to say, Elena is by far my favourite character. I love her relationship with Clay, the rest of her Pack and the other 'women of the otherworld'.  I love her flaws and insecurities and how she hides them from most but is completely honest with her mate. She is what most readers love in a heroine - especially in urban fantasy. She's strong, knows how to kick butts and she's loyal. She is what made me fall in love with this series.

Because I was a little iffy on the last two books in the series, I was seriously excited when I saw the next book featured Elena. It really didn't disappoint me and it brought back to light all the reasons I love this series.

The plot made evident Kelley Armstrong's strengths in writing. The suspense and action had me reading this book only in two sittings - I only put it down to eat and then got right back to it! I loved how this book features something new in the supernatural community and how the world of werewolves and all things that go bump in the night is steadily getting bigger and bigger. 

All in all this was essentially a reminder of why I started reading this series. I loved it. There was a brilliant plot, amazing characters and action that has you biting your nails in anticipation. 

My rating: 10/10

 

Kelley Armstrong:

 

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

 

 

Women of the Otherworld:

 

1. Bitten
2. Stolen
3. Dime Store Magic
4. Industrial Magic
5. Haunted
6. Broken
7. No Humans Involved
8. Personal Demon
9. Living with the Dead
10. Frostbitten
11. Waking the Witch
12. Spell Bound
13. Thirteen

Review: Magic Breaks by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Breaks

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #7

Publisher: Ace

Publication date: 3 March 2015

Format: Paperback | 416 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

As the mate of the Beast Lord, Curran, former mercenary Kate Daniels has more responsibilities than it seems possible to juggle. Not only is she still struggling to keep her investigative business afloat, but she must now deal with the affairs of the Pack, including preparing her people for attack from Roland, a cruel, ancient being with godlike powers.

As Roland's long shadow looms ever nearer, Kate is called to attend and gathering of leaders from Atlanta's supernatural factions. When one of the Masters of the Dead is found murdered by a shapeshifter, Kate is given less than twenty-four hours to hunt down the killer. And this time, if she fails, she'll find herself embroiled in a war that could destroy everything she holds dear…

My thoughts:

I have yet to find a series that manages to make me fan girl like this one. It took me so long to get my hands on Magic Breaks, but I would find myself thinking about it every day at the very least. What was going to happen to all my favourite characters? Will Kate finally meet her Dad? Will he be evil enough? And will there be a final, epic showdown with Hugh? It was constantly running through my mind. And then I read the book and boy, it exceeded any expectations I had.

What I really have to point out straight off is that Ilona Andrews has no fear when it comes to fleshing out every single character so each one is just as entertaining to read about as Kate and Curran. I love all of them. The thought of any of them dying makes my heart skip a beat…not in the good way.

But of course, no one compares to Kate and Curran. As individual characters they take the biscuit and even while apart they are more than able to stand on their own. But together, that's where the story really starts to get going. When they fight together you bite your nails in anticipation, when they put their heads together you're in awe of what they can accomplish and the sexy times are a lovely bonus that make you root for them as a couple to the ends of the Earth and back.

I loved how I was kept in the dark with what would happen throughout the story. I had no clue as to what would end up going on and I loved the not knowing. The anticipation was killing me even whilst reading. I wanted to get to the end to finally find out what happens to the Pack but when I did, I wished I could read it for the first time all over again. I wish I didn't have to wait for the next book…sigh.

What more do I need to say? If you haven't picked up this series yet, please do, because you're seriously missing out on some deliciousness. This was my favourite one yet!

My rating: 10/10

Ilona Andrews:

 

 Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

 

 Kate Daniels:

 

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises
7. Magic Breaks
8. Magic Shifts
9. Untitled
10. Untitled

 

Review: Living with the Dead by Kelley Armstrong

Title: Living with the Dead

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Series: Women of the Otherworld #9

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 03 Nov 2011

Format: Paperback | 384 pages

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

Robyn Peltier has never done anything out of the ordinary. So when her new boss is murdered and she is named prime suspect, she finds herself way out of her depth. As friends and colleagues abandon her, only two people remain loyal - best friend Hope Adams, and Hope's spooky but charismatic boyfriend Karl.

What Robyn doesn't realise is that she has accidentally stumbled into a bloody and escalating supernatural turf war. She's also completely unaware that Hope is actually half-demon, and her 'spooky' boyfriend is a powerful werewolf. Now the only way Hope can keep her friend alive is by introducing her into a world she's safer knowing nothing about…

My thoughts:

Living with the Dead is so far the only book in the Women of the Otherworld series with a non-supernatural as the protagonist. The book follows Robyn Peltier as she tries to clear her name after becoming the prime suspect in a murder investigation that soon turns incredibly nasty. With a little help from Hope, the half-demon journalist and her werewolf boyfriend, Karl Marsten, Robyn sets out to solve the murder case of her boss and absolve herself of the case once and for all. 

So for this review, I'm going to get all the negative, ramblings going on in my head out of the way first and then move on to the good stuff. I was pretty much split right down the middle with this book. I liked it, but as usual in any series, I couldn't help compare it to the previous books. I can't get on with Hope as well as the other characters for some reason. I don't know if it's because she wasn't introduced until quite a bit later on or if I just don't like her personality. Either way, pair that with a completely random, non-supernatural protagonist as well as a bucket load of new characters, safe to say I got a little muddled with where the author was going with this one.

I did, however, recognise that this book may be a turning point for the series. There were hints of things to come - big Cabal secrets revealed, unrest between supernaturals and the like. I have to admit, that side of the plot was incredibly interesting. Maybe the previous books were just an introduction into a final, intricate plot? Maybe Armstrong was leaving a trail of hints all along? I certainly hope so at least!

Aside from the characters, I enjoyed the book. There was the usual suspense present in the rest of the series that made me desperate to find out what happens. I didn't want to put the book down and for me, that essentially says it all. I wasn't disappointed in this read, it just didn't seem on par with the rest of the books in the series.

My rating: 6/10

Kelley Armstrong:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

Women of the Otherworld:

1. Bitten
2. Stolen
3. Dime Store Magic
4. Industrial Magic
5. Haunted
6. Broken
7. No Humans Involved
8. Personal Demon
9. Living with the Dead
10. Frostbitten
11. Waking the Witch
12. Spell Bound
13. Thirteen

Review: Unclean Spirits by M.L.N. Hanover

Title: Unclean Spirits

Author: M. L. N Hanover

Series: The Black Sun's Daughter #1

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 05 Jan 2012

Format: Paperback | 400 pages

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

When college student Jayné Heller's uncle is murdered, she goes to Denver to settle his estate and mourn the loss of the only member of her family who has always been on her side.

She discovers that her uncle has left her quite a legacy: a string of property across the world, several very full bank accounts - and an extremely unconventional business. It turns out Uncle Eric has been secretly fighting to rid the world of supernatural 'riders' - demons, vampires, werewolves and all sorts of other nasty parasites - since before Jayné was born.

Now it's up to Jayné to avenge her uncle's death and continue his work - if she can survive her first week on the job.

My thoughts:

After receiving a huge fortune from her uncle Eric after he died, Jayné finds more than she bargained for when she heads over to deal with Eric's estate. Jayné's uncle lived in a world filled with spirits of werewolves, vampires and all the things that go bump in the night. These spirits, known as 'riders', wait for the right moment to take over and infect a human body to do with what it wills. Jayné has to decide between carrying on her uncle's legacy or packing up and taking the money.

I liked this read. There were some really great characters that I enjoyed reading about and getting to know. Especially Ex - to be fair, he wasn't featured as much as the others throughout the book, but he was one of the more mysterious characters and I just can't help but want to know more about him. He had moments that gave a little insight to his intentions or motives in the next few books I think, at least I hope so, and they were such sweet awww moments. I love Ex. Jayné was also a great character but she has a lot of growing to do over the rest of the series. I took Jayné with a pinch of salt just because it's usually the case in the first book of a series that the heroine doesn't reach her potential as a character and I really saw that here. She starts to realise what she's got herself into by the end of the book but at the beginning she was a whole different person. 

Aubrey on the other hand, I didn't get on with so much. It's not that I didn't like his character, I just found him a bit lacking in the personality department. He didn't really do anything for me or stand out enough that I cared about what happened to him. So far, unless it changes over the next books of course, I wouldn't care if he was pushed aside in the story and just disappeared. He didn't make a huge difference to the book in my opinion. 

As for the plot of the book, I thought it took a while to get going action wise but once it did I was completely captivated. I did think, at times, that some of the action scenes, especially towards the end, were too simplistic for what was supposed to happen. I don't want to give anything away but if someone's so powerful he shouldn't be too easy to get rid of. Aside from that, I liked the originality to the idea of 'riders' and I enjoyed reading another book where werewolves and the like are genuinely the bad guys no questions asked. There aren't too many of those nowadays. 

Overall I enjoyed this book and I will be sure to pick up the next in the series when I can, if only to get some more of Ex. I really do hope what I want to happen does in fact happen!

My rating: 7/10

M.L.N Hanover:

Goodreads | Website 

Review: Magic Rises by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Rises

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #6

Publisher: Ace 

Publication date: 30 Jul 2013

Format: Paperback | 368 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Mercenary Kate Daniels and her mate, Curran, the Beast Lord, are struggling to solve a heartbreaking crisis. Unable to control their beasts, many of the Pack’s shapeshifting children fail to survive to adulthood. While there is a medicine that can help, the secret to its making is closely guarded by the European packs, and there’s little available in Atlanta.

Kate can’t bear to watch innocents suffer, but the solution she and Curran have found threatens to be even more painful. The European shapeshifters who once outmaneuvered the Beast Lord have asked him to arbitrate a dispute—and they’ll pay him in medicine. With the young people’s survival and the Pack’s future at stake, Kate and Curran know they must accept the offer—but they have little doubt that they’re heading straight into a trap…

My thoughts:

I have no idea what to think about what just happened. I've just been taken on one hell of an emotional roller coaster. This is most likely going to be a really short review just so I can stop myself from fangirling all over the place. 

I didn't think this series could get any better but this book blew every book before out of the water completely. There was so much action - and amazing action at that - I couldn't take it all in at once and ended up reading over the best fights over and over just to take in the sheer awesomeness that just happened. I'm hardly making any sense right now in all the excitement.

Magic Rises makes a huge step forward in terms of plot development. Everything pretty much changes in this book and I have a feeling it will carry on changing throughout the rest of the series. The cat is definitely out of the bag.

Overall I seriously enjoyed every moment of this read and I can't fault it for the life of me. I loved Curran and Kate's every moment together, all the action, the new characters and all the emotions this book has made me feel. Please, please, please read this series - you won't regret it.

My rating:  10/10

 

Ilona Andrews:

 

 

 

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

 

 

 

 

Kate Daniels:

 

 

 

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises

Review: Gunmetal Magic by Ilona Andrews

Title: Gunmetal Magic

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #5.5

Publisher: Ace

Publication date: 31 Jul 2012

Format: Paperback | 448 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Some people have everything figured out—Andrea Nash is not one of those people. After being kicked out of the Order of the Knights of Merciful Aid, Andrea's whole existence is in shambles. All she can do is try to put herself back together, something made easier by working for Cutting Edge, a small investigative firm owned by her best friend, Kate Daniels. 

When several shapeshifters working for Raphael Medrano—the male alpha of the Clan Bouda, as well as Andrea's former lover—die unexpectedly at a dig site, Andrea is assigned to investigate…and must work with Raphael. As her search for the killer leads her into the secret underbelly of supernatural Atlanta, Andrea knows that dealing with her feelings for Raphael might have to take a back seat to saving the world…

My thoughts:

I was pleasantly surprised by this read because I initially thought it would be another novella type deal and not a full blown novel. I soon noticed the number of pages it contained on goodreads though and immediately got excited - anything more of Ilona Andrews is a good thing in my book.

So…Andrea. I never thought I could like her any more than I already did from her appearances in Kate's life, but reading this book from her perspective was a breath of fresh of air. I loved getting to know her better and I have to say, she seems like a completely new character now - I definitely won't see her in the same light in the next Kate Daniels book. Andrea used to be so much meeker in the past books, partly because of the Order she was a part of, but also because she was so unsure of herself: her identity and who she wanted to become. Everything changes in this book though and her story is not an easy one.

But of course, I still have to mention my favourites, Kate and Curran. I adored seeing their relationship through Andrea's eyes. It was beyond adorable. I also feel a need to mention Raphael - is it just me, or did anybody else start to really dislike him at the beginning of this book? He did redeem himself towards the end, but I find myself unable to really forget what he did and said - he went a little too far in my eyes. 

As usual for a Kate Daniels novel, the plot was a perfect mix of humour, romance and amazing action that has you biting your nails in anticipation. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.

My rating: 9/10

 

Ilona Andrews:

 

 

 

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

Review: Magic Slays by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Slays

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #5

Publisher: Ace

Publication date: 31 May 2011

Format: Paperback | 320 ages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Kate Daniels may have quit the Order of Knights of Merciful Aid, but she's still knee deep in in paranormal problems. Or she would be if she could get someone to hire her. Starting her own business has been more challenging than she thought it would be - now that the Order is disparaging her good name. Plus, many potential clients are afraid of getting on the bad side of the Beast Lord, who just happens to be Kate's mate.

So when Atlanta's premier Master of the Dead calls to ask for help with a vampire on the loose, Kate leaps at the chance of some paying work. But it turns out that this is not an isolated incident. Kate needs to get to the bottom of it - and fast, or the city and everyone dear to her may pay the ultimate price…

My thoughts:

Even with my high expectations, this book still managed to impress me. It was another brilliant addition to the Kate Daniels series.

What I enjoyed most about this read was the fact that I knew where Curran and Kate stood from the beginning of the book. The time of the two characters playing games with each other for affection is over for the most part - they still have their moments, but this book is more focused on how well they work together as a team now that they're sharing all aspects of their lives with each other. It brought something completely new to the table and kept the series interesting. I loved seeing how the couple started to develop their relationship and eventually trust each other completely to the point that one would allow the other to risk their life for someone they both love. 

The new characters introduced were both hilarious and endearing. I love Ascanio and I can see myself having a real soft spot for him, especially with how he played a part in this plot. He reminded me of Julie in a way, like a lost child in need of a helping hand. I also really liked the witch and volhv family involved - they really made me laugh and I can see them playing a big part in the future Kate Daniels books. Most of all though, I loved Kate's development as a character - she learns even more about her family in this book, some of which is pretty painful, so I loved how she dealt with it. There's a huge, noticeable difference between how she deals with family secrets in this book compared the first couple in the series - Kate has grown a huge amount.

As for the plot, it was a typical Kate Daniels novel in terms of action, humour and romance. There was loads of action to keep things thrilling with a bucketload of suspense thrown in towards the end where someone's life is in the balance. Just like the past books, I adored every single Kate and Curran moment and there were plenty in this read - about three quarters of the way in, Curran gives a heartfelt confession which almost had me burst into tears. I didn't think I could love Curran any more than I did already but I digress.

Overall I thought this book was pretty much perfect. It had everything I could ask for in a book and then some. If you haven't checked out this series yet, please do.

My rating: 10/10

 

Ilona Andrews:

 

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

 

 

Kate Daniels:

 

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises

Review: Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Bleeds 

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #4

Publisher: Ace

Publication date: 25 May 2010

Format: Paperback | 384 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Kate Daniels works for the Order of Knights of Merciful Aid, officially, as a liaison with the mercenary guild. Unofficially, she cleans up the paranormal problems no one else wants to handle - especially if they involve Atlanta's shapeshifting community.

When she's called in to investigate a fight at the Steel Horse, a bar on the border between the territories of the shapeshifters and the necromancers, Kate quickly discovers there's a new player in town. One who's been around for thousands of years - and rode to war at the side of Kate's father.

This foe may be too much even for Kate and Curran, the Beast Lord, to handle. Because this time Kate will be taking on family…

My thoughts:

Wow! This writing duo certainly kicked it up a notch with this one!

What can I say about this book other than I loved it so, so much. I'm normally a little anxious about reading on in a series - especially urban fantasy series - just because I get so disappointed when they go downhill after a great start. The first book in the Kate Daniels series was brilliant, so I couldn't imagine it getting any better. Boy was I wrong!

 What got me most was the humour. There were little funny moments here and there in the past three books of this series but this one just took the biscuit. Every time Curran and Kate are in the same room together, something happens that makes me laugh, no exception. Quite a few moments in this book will make any reader realise that those two are really made for each other. It made for some really hilarious reading let me tell you.

In the past three books there has been mention of romantic interest between Curran and Kate but it never really got anywhere. In this book there was about equal focus on the paranormal problems of Atlanta Kate has to deal with, and Kate's relationship with Curran. Normally I don't like romance to take a huge chunk out of the book, but I love the two characters so much that I welcomed it. If anything, it added to the overall plot of the story since Kate had more to worry about than ever.

The new characters introduced in this book were amazing. Kate's new enemy was pretty much an overpowered creep. She really led to some thrilling action throughout the read where I got seriously worried for some of the characters involved. Plus a shapeshifter that turns into a crocodile warrior? Awesome!

Overall I thought this was the best book yet - I'm starting to think that I'll be saying that for every new Kate Daniels book I read but I don't want to let my expectations get too high.

My rating: 10/10

Ilona Andrews:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

Kate Daniels:

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises

 

Review: Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Strikes

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #3

Publisher: Gollancz

Publication date: 11 Nov 2010

Format: Paperback | 320 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

When magic strikes and Atlanta goes to pieces, it's a job for Kate Daniels…

Drafted into working for the Order of Merciful Aid, mercenary Kate Daniels has more paranormal problems than she knows what to do with these days. And in Atlanta, where magic comes and goes like the tide, that's saying a lot.

But when Kate's werewolf friend Derek is discovered nearly dead, she finds herself with a personal stake and a whole new level of problem. As her investigations lead her to the Midnight Games - the invitation-only, no-holds-barred, ultimate preternatural fighting tournament - she uncovers a dark plot that may forever alter the face of Atlanta's shapeshifting community…

My thoughts:

This series is just getting better and better in my opinion - this was my favourite so far.

I seriously love how far Kate has come already. A lot more of her past is revealed in this book and her character is tested to the limits. She was everything I love in a heroine - strong, witty and the cool sword skills are a definite bonus. 

This book is the kind of read that is more or less impossible to put down. It's full of so much suspense that I couldn't bear to stop reading just so I could find out how everything was going to end. I was so worried for the characters the whole way through which is a definite testament to the great writing.

If you haven't read this series then I seriously recommend you start. So far it's what any fan of urban fantasy looks for in a series - it's hilarious, full of action with a bit of heart stopping romance thrown in and it has amazing characters that you can't help but grow to love. 

 

My rating: 10/10

 

Ilona Andrews:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

Kate Daniels:

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises

Review: Magic Burns by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Burns

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #2

Publisher: Penguin

Publication date: April 2008

Format: Paperback | 260 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Down in Atlanta, tempers – and temperatures – are about to flare…

As a mercenary who cleans up after magic gone wrong, Kate Daniels has seen her share of occupational hazards. Normally, waves of paranormal energy ebb and flow across Atlanta like a tide. But once every seven years, a flare comes, a time when magic runs rampant. Now Kate’s going to have to deal with problems on a much bigger scale: a divine one.

When Kate sets out to retrieve a set of stolen maps for the Pack, Atlanta’s paramilitary clan of shapeshifters, she quickly realizes much more at stake. During a flare, gods and goddesses can manifest – and battle for power. The stolen maps are only the opening gambit in an epic tug-of-war between two gods hoping for rebirth. And if Kate can’t stop the cataclysmic showdown, the city may not survive…

My thoughts:

If this series carries on the way it has so far, I'm going to love every book more than the last. 

Somehow, I've managed to fall in love with Kate Daniels even more as well as all the supporting characters. I don't even know what to say about them without fangirling all over the place.

 

I pretty much loved everything about this book and that's all there is to it. I loved the writing, I loved that it made me laugh and smile and get tears in my eyes. I loved the crazy plot with all of the hints of things to come. I just seriously can't wait to get my hands on the next book.

 

My rating: 10/10

 

Ilona Andrews:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

Kate Daniels:

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises

Review: Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews

Title: Magic Bites

Author: Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #1

Publisher: Orion

Publication date: April 1st 2007

Format: Paperback | 288 pages

Genre: Adult | Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

Atlanta would be a nice place to live, if it weren't for the magic…

When the magic is up, rogue mages cast their spells and monsters appear, while guns refuse to fire and cars fail to start. But then technology returns, and the magic recedes as unpredictably as it arose, leaving all kinds of paranormal problems in its wake.

Kate Daniels is a down-on-her-luck mercenary who makes her living cleaning up these magical problems. But when Kate's guardian is murdered, her quest for justice draws her into a power struggle between two strong factions within Atlanta's magic circles.

The Masters of the Dead, necromancers who can control vampires, and the Pack, a paramilitary clan of shapechangers, blame each other for a series of bizarre killings—and the death of Kate's guardian may be part of the same mystery. Pressured by both sides to find the killer, Kate realizes she's way out of her league—but she wouldn't have it any other way…

My thoughts:

I'm a big fan of this genre so of course that would mean I read a lot of it. It's started to take a lot more for me to fall in love with a series like this one, but I found myself impressed very quickly.

I felt a little out of my depth when I first started reading - the author didn't waste any time with introducing a load of characters and information about the world this book is set in. It didn't take long to get used to though and I steadily grew to love being able to figure out the ins and outs of this 'version' of Atlanta by myself. It made things a little more interesting.

What I loved most of all was the characters. Kate has a load of flaws - more than most protagonists - and she knows it, she doesn't cover them up. She also has her moments where her strength shines and that's where the read gets very exciting. I don't really know what to say about Curran. I actually didn't like him at first, I found him to be really brash and slightly too arrogant but he's really, really grown on me. I really enjoyed the way he and Kate interacted - it made me laugh at times, and at others I got incredibly excited to find out what was going to happen between them. Kate brought him back down to earth with how much she challenged him, so their relationship really worked. 

Overall I loved this book - it was full of action and suspense, but most of all, the romance was put aside for the most part so it wasn't the main focus of the story which was great. 

My rating: 8/10

Ilona Andrews:

Goodreads | Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

Kate Daniels:

1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
4. Magic Bleeds
5. Magic Slays
6. Magic Rises

Review: The Reckoning by Kelley Armstrong

Title: The Reckoning 

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Series: Darkest Powers #3

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 03 Mar 2011

Format: Paperback | 400 pages

Genre: YA | Urban Fantasy 

Goodreads

Chloe Saunders is fifteen and would love to be normal. Unfortunately, Chloe happens to be a genetically engineered necromancer who can raise the dead without even trying. She and her equally gifted (or should that be 'cursed'?) friends are now running for their lives from the evil corporation that created them.

As if that's not enough, Chloe is struggling with her feelings for Simon, a sweet-tempered sorcerer, and his brother Derek, a not so sweet-tempered werewolf. And she has a horrible feeling she's leaning towards the werewolf…

Definitely not normal.

My thoughts:

This is my favourite book out of the trilogy for more reasons than one. For a start, I have to say Derek is probably one of my favourite characters of all time. I love how original and refreshing he is. He fits Chloe perfectly and above all, he is one of the most realistic love interests in a paranormal read I've come across. He's dreamy in his own way, but not in the 'faultless, sexy and beyond handsome' sense. He has his own problems and I really loved that about him. 

I loved the conclusion to the trilogy. Everything came together perfectly. All of my questions were answered, I was definitely surprised by some of the answers too - it all led to a really intense read that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.

The characters all came into their own in this book, especially Tori. I loved how she overcame her past problems and, as a result, became a little more integrated into the group.

If you haven't read this series, I strongly urge you to - you won't be disappointed. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book by Kelley Armstrong.

My rating: 10/10

 

Kelley Armstrong:

 

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

 

 

Darkest Powers:

 

1. The Summoning
2. The Awakening
3. The Reckoning

Review: The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong

Title: The Awakening

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Series: Darkest Powers #2

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 03 Feb 2011

Format: Paperback | 368 pages

Genre: YA | Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

Chloe Saunders used to be a normal teenage girl - or so she thought. Then she learnt the shocking truth - she is a walking science experiment. Genetically altered at birth by a sinister team of scientists known as the Edison Group. Chloe is an aberration - a powerful necromancer who can see ghosts and even raise the dead, often with terrifying consequences. Even worse, her growing powers have made her a threat to the surviving members of the Edison Group, who have decided it's time to end their experiment - permanently…

Now Chloe is running for her life with three other supernatural teenagers - a charming sorcerer,  troubled werewolf and a temperamental young witch. Together they have a chance for freedom - but can Chloe trust her new friends?

My thoughts:

When I started this book for the first time, I was worried it wouldn't live up to my expectations based off of how much I loved the first book in the trilogy. I was worried it would be one of those 'filller' books just to bridge the gap between the first and third book. It turned out to be just as good as the first book, if not better, so I had nothing to worry about.

What I loved most about this one was how much more intense the plot got right from the beginning of the book. I guess the ending of the first book was partly to blame, but it certainly meant that this book started off with a bang. I really couldn't get through this book fast enough, just to find out the answers to the questions that had been bugging me since finishing The Summoning. It was as gripping and full of suspense as the best of them - it really had me worrying for the characters more or less throughout the read.

And of course I have to mention how great the characters were. Chloe grew a lot in this book, both in terms of her powers and in character. A lot of secrets were revealed in this book that caused Chloe to doubt her trust in characters that she previously counted on. I loved how she steadily worked through her problems without relying on others as much as she did in the first book. I also really enjoyed how much more I got to know the other characters, especially Derek. Derek is a really refreshing, original character that's continually grown on me  - I would read about him forever if I could.

 

Overall, I really love this read. I seriously recommend this trilogy to any fan of this genre - or even any of Kelley's books. They won't disappoint.

 

My rating: 10/10

 

Kelley Armstrong:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

Darkest Powers:

1. The Summoning
2. The Awakening
3. The Reckoning

Review: The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong

Title: The Summoning

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Series: Darkest Powers #1

Publisher: Atom

Publication date: 20.01.2011

Format: Paperback | 392 pages

Genre: YA | Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

All Chloe ever wanted was to be normal. But when she starts seeing ghosts at school, she knows that life will never be normal again. When she finally breaks down, she's admitted to Lyle House - a group home for disturbed teenagers.

As she gets to know the other students - charming Simon and his ominous, unsmiling brother Derek; obnoxious Tori and Rae, who has a 'thing' for fire - Chloe begins to realise that something strange and sinister binds them all together…

My thoughts:

This was probably my third time reading this book before realising I never posted a review for it, so here ya go.

I love, love, love anything to do with Kelley Armstrong but this series is my absolute favourite and one that I could happily read over and over.

The Summoning  is the first book in a trilogy that's full of amazing characters, intense plot lines and brilliant writing that doesn't fail to have you on the edge of your seat throughout the entire read. 

 

What I love most about this book is the range of fantastic characters. I instantly fell in love with Chloe and I fell in love with the other, supporting characters, just as quickly as they were being introduced. They all offered something completely different to the story whilst having well rounded personalities and enough mystery about them to keep me interested.

 

Overall this is a fantastic read and one of my favourites. It has no end of great writing, loveable characters and enough suspense to have you flipping through pages as fast as you can.

 

My rating: 10/10

 

Kelley Armstrong:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

Darkest Powers:

1. The Summoning
2. The Awakening
3. The Reckoning

Review: Touch the Dark by Karen Chance

Title: Touch the Dark

Author: Karen Chance

Series: Cassandra Palmer #1

Publisher: Penguin

Publication date: 28 Jun 2007

Format: Paperback | 320 pages

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

Cassandra Palmer can see the future and communicate with spirits—talents that make her attractive to the dead and the undead. The ghosts of the dead aren’t usually dangerous; they just like to talk…a lot.

The undead are another matter.

Like any sensible girl, Cassie tries to avoid vampires. But when the bloodsucking mafioso she escaped three years ago finds Cassie again with vengeance on his mind, she’s forced to turn to the vampire Senate for protection.

The undead senators won’t help her for nothing, and Cassie finds herself working with one of their most powerful members, a dangerously seductive master vampire—and the price he demands may be more than Cassie is willing to pay....

 

 

My thoughts:

I'm just going to dive straight in and say this book was pretty much average for me, if that.

The biggest problem I had that prevented me from really loving this book, was that it was incredibly long winded at times. It was the kind of read where, whenever something had to be explained in detail, it was a chore to read. It happened quite a few times too, so it was definitely something that really put me off. I was mostly frustrated because most of it, in my opinion, was completely unnecessary - I could have figured it out on my own.

The only other thing that bothered me was the romance aspect to the book. It was creepy. I was fine with it until Mircea started bringing up his memories of Cassandra when she was twelve. I can't even tell you how much it put me off.

Aside from that, I liked the book. It just wasn't something I would pick up again - everything else was pretty much average. The characters were okay, apart from Tomas, I don't know what happened there. The plot wasn't original but still mediocre and the writing was alright aside from the aforementioned long windedness.

Overall, it was nothing to add to my favourites list and I don't really recommend it, but it was okay.

My rating: 5/10

Karen Chance:

Goodreads | Website 

Review: Tempest's Fury by Nicole Peeler

Title: Tempest's Fury

Author: Nicole Peeler

Series: Jane True #5

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 05 Jul 2012

Format: Paperback | 352 pages

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

Supernatural halfling Jane True is not happy. She's been packed off to England to fight a war when she's much rather be getting busy with her boyfriend Anyan. Unfortunately, Jane's enemies have been stirring up some major trouble and attracting a lot of attention - making it rather tricky for Jane and Anyan to get any alone time.

Catapulted into the role of Most Unlikely Hero Ever, Jane must lead the supernatural races in a desperate battle to combat an ancient evil. But she'll also have to fight her own insecurities, as well as the doubts of those who don't think she can live up to her new role as Champion - the most powerful supernatural leader of all…

My thoughts:

Wow I did not expect an ending like that. It's going to drive me crazy until I can get my hands on the last book.

As usual, I loved this book. I love everything about the Jane True series - the characters, the story lines, the writing and most of all the ability Nicole has to inject humour into any situation. 

What was different about this one was Jane herself. She has so many burdens to bear and she really took it like a champ. I adore books/series where there is clear development in the characters in some way or another. Jane, since the beginning of the series, has gone from not knowing anything about supernatural creatures apart from being the stuff of fairytales, to realising she is one, to being part of a huge war that could change everything as she knows it. She's slowly coming into her own whilst still being true to who she was at the start.

The plot was also great. There was an abundance of suspense with the idea that everything is at stake no matter who the character. Jane's usual enemies played a huge part with the added bonus of demons coming into play and the prospect of world annihilation. 

Honestly, I kind of regret reading this without having the last book already on the shelf.

My rating: 10/10

Nicole Peeler:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

Books in the series:

1. Tempest Rising
2. Tracking the Tempest
3. Tempest's Legacy
4. Eye of the Tempest
5. Tempest's Fury
6. Tempest Reborn

Review: Eye of the Tempest by Nicole Peeler

Title: Eye of the Tempest

Author: Nicole Peeler

Series: Jane True #4

Publisher: Orbit

Publication date: 06 Oct 2011

Format: Paperback | 352 pages

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Goodreads

 

Nothing says "home" like being attacked by humans with very large guns, as Jane and Anyan discover when they arrive in Rockabill. These are professionals, brought into kill, and they bring Anyan down before either Jane or the barghest can react. Seeing Anyan fall awakens a terrible power within Jane, and she nearly destroys herself taking out their attackers. 

Jane wakes, weeks later, to discover that she's not the only thing that's been stirring. Something underneath Rockabill is coming to life: something ancient, something powerful, and something that just might destroy the world. 

Jane and her friends must act, striking out on a quest that only Jane can finish. For whatever lurks beneath the Old Sow must be stopped...and Jane's just the halfling for the job.

My thoughts:

I adore the Jane True series. I just can't get enough.

What I love most about them is that they are chocked full of humour. I seriously feel there isn't enough humour in books and there can never be enough.

 

I thoroughly enjoyed reading the point of view of such a quirky character. Jane constantly makes me laugh, but she is also pretty vulnerable at times. She doubts herself and counts on people around her for some things. She really is starting to come into her own the further I get in the series though - she seems to be giving advice and orders more than taking it, at least more than she did in the first few books.

 

I thought the plot wasn't as good as the previous books. It felt a lot like the book was just filling in gaps in the bigger plot between books. It was definitely interesting and I loved the idea of it, but it wasn't as exciting that's all.

 

All of the characters were amazing. I loved getting to know Blondie better, she was a really mysterious, captivating character. Anyan was just beyond yummy and the rest of the supporting characters were really well written and well rounded.

 

Overall I really loved this read. I really recommend this whole series, especially to fans of urban fantasy, you really do need to pick these books up and give them a try.

 

My rating: 9/10

 

Nicole Peeler:

Goodreads | Website | Twitter | Facebook

 

Books in the series:

1. Tempest Rising
2. Tracking the Tempest
3. Tempest's Legacy
4. Eye of the Tempest
5. Tempest's Fury
6. Tempest Reborn