Time of the Witches by Anna Myers

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Historical Fiction; Salem Witch Trials, 1692

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: An orphan named Drucilla finally has a place to call home with the Putnam family in Salem. Although her adopted mother is strange – haunted by a troubled past – Dru feels drawn to her as the mother she never had. When a new reverend and his family move into town with their servant Tituba, life takes a strange turn as young girls begin to fall ill and accusations of witchcraft begin to swirl. Reluctant to turn her back on the Putnams or her peers and overwhelmed by the power of groupthink among the other girls in town, Dru becomes one of the accusers herself. But when the boy she loves, Gabe, is accused, she must find a way to end the hysteria, or risk losing him forever.

                                  

The story starts from the main character’s birth and goes through to the end of the Salem witch trials. Dru is looking for the love of a family when she is placed with the Putnams. Goody Putnam is in her own world many times from bouts of depression. Dru seems to be one of the only people that can make her feel better. But Dru changes her tune when she is made to accuse Gabe. I liked the relationship between Dru and Gabe. It was a good story in how things happened in Salem. It also is a great show for peer pressure. I think that young adults in high school should read this just for that point alone. I really liked reading this book.

Publisher: Walker Books

ISBN: 0802798209

Pages: 208

Series:

Volume:

First Rider’s Call by Kristen Britain

Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Time Travel, Ghosts

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Ghostly Riders. Karigan G’ladheon had been a Green Rider, one of the king of Sacoridia’s elite magical messengers. But a Green Rider was more perilous than Karigan had ever imagined, for a rogue Eletian had cracked the magical D’Yer Wall which had protected Sacoridia for a thousand years from the evil influence of Blackveil Forest – the arboreal prison of Sacoridia’s ancient enemy Mornhavon the Black – and had brought the threat of dark magic back into the land. In the messenger service she had been caught up in a world of deadly danger, and though she had defeated the Eletian, she had nonetheless been tainted by his wild magic. Exhausted in body and spirit, and determined to be the mistress of her own destiny, Karigan had returned to her home in Corsa. But Karigan’s determination was no match for the Rider’s call. Ghostly hoofbeats echoed in the deep regions of her mind, and when she awoke to find herself on horseback halfway to Sacor city – in her nightgown – she finally gave in. Back at court Karigan found the Green Riders weakened and diminished. Rider magic was becoming unreliable, and she herself was having ghostly visions – visions of a strong woman with wild flowing hair and a blue and green tartan draped across her shoulder, pinned with a golden brooch. This woman was no stranger to Karigan nor would she have been to any Green Rider, for she was Lil Ambriodhe, First Rider, and founder of the Green Rider corps. But why was she appearing to Karigan? And would Karigan be able to seek the help of a woman who had been dead for a thousand years?

This is the second book in the Green Rider Series. Karigan starts off by trying not to be a Green Rider, but finds herself drawn to it. Once she decides to go back she finds things a little leaner within the Green Rider ranks. There is a lot going on in this story but it is well worth the read. The relationships that Karigan has with the other characters are brilliant. I found the story to be compelling and one that sucks you right in. I can’t wait to read the third book in this series, The High King’s Tomb.

Publisher: Daw

ISBN: 0756405726

Pages: 656

Series: Green Rider

Volume: 2

Dragons of Winter Night by Margaret Weis & Tracy Hickman

Genre: Fantasy; Dragons, Magic, Elves, Kender, Dwarves, Gnomes, Goblins, Minotaurs, Gods

Sub Genre: Dragonlance

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Now the people know that the dragon minions of Takhisis, Queen of Darkness, have returned. The people of all nations prepare to fight to save their homes, their lives, and their freedom. But the races have long been divided by hatred and prejudice. Elven warriors and human knights fight among themselves. It seems the battle has been lost before it begins. The companions are separated, torn apart by war. A full season will pass before they meet again – if they meet again. As the darkness deepens, a disgraced knight, a pampered elfmaiden, and a rattlebrained kinder stand alone in the pale winter sunlight. Not much in the way of heroes.

This is the second book in the Chronicles series of Dragonlance. It just adds so much more to the series. There is so much that is going on but we get to know the characters so much better. Tasslehoff Burrfoot the Kender is still my favorite character. I cried when I finished this book. This is a great book and it makes you go through all these ups and downs. I loved this book and can’t wait to read the finish the last book in this trilogy,  Dragons of Spring Dawning.

Publisher: Wizards of the Coast

ISBN: 0786916095

Pages: 400

Series: Dragonlance Chronicles

Volume: 2

Pastworld by Ian Beck

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Science Fiction; Amusement Park of the Past, London, Victorian Times

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: A dream of the past, a nightmare of the future in the greatest theme park ever devised. What if all of London were really an amusement park – a whole city returned to Victorian times to entertain visitor from the twenty-first century? That’s the wildly original premise of Ian Beck’s Pastworld, a high-stakes mystery set in a simulated past. Eve is a lifelong resident of Pastworld who doesn’t know she’s living in a theme park until a mysterious threat forces her to leave home. Caleb is a visiting tourist who finds the lawlessness of the past thrilling – until he suddenly becomes a fugitive from an anticquated justice system. And in the midst of it all, in the thick London fog a dark and deadly figure prowls, claiming victim after victim. He’s the Fantom, a creature both of the past and of the present, in whose dark purpose Caleb and Eve will find their destinies combined.

This is a story that mixes the old world with Science fiction. Think of it as being a world that people can go and visit the old Victorian London. The people there do not know that they live in an amusement park. Then they through in the element of murder, a killer that scares those who live there. This is such a page turning mystery. I felt like I was there running in the streets trying to work things out with the other characters. I really enjoyed this story. It was very imaginative and well written.

Publisher: Bloomsbury Children’s Books

ISBN: 1599905299

Pages: 368

Series:

Volume: 

Birthright by Mari Freeman

Genre: Erotic Romance

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance; Angels, Demons, Witches, Vampires, Shape-Shifters, Magic, Elves, Gnomes, Imps

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: A seemingly random attack by mysterious creatures in long cloaks forces Mary Hughes to face the shock of her life – she isn’t human. Well… not just human. With Witch and Demon blood running through her veins, she is Keena, Priestess of the Wild. As her magic emerges, Keena is thrust headlong into the world of the Kith, a world that includes a Gnome stylist, a cat guardian and a kitchen Imp for a best friend. Oh and then there’s her destiny – an ancient battle of birthright with an evil half twin she didn’t even know she had. As she fumbles with potions and spells and unwittingly stumbles into one foible after another, Keena’s also fighting her all-consuming lust for a hot Vamp Lord as well as the Kith’s half-Demon head of security. And Managing her body’s newfound urges isn’t her only battle. Danger is everywhere and enemies are mounting. Certain Kith would love nothing more than to destroy the human race – and its up to Keena to stop them. If she can stay alive long enough…

Mary goes from living a normal unseeming life to learning that she is not even Mary. She is Keena, Priestess of the Wild. Oh and she has a half twin sister who she is destined to battle for her birthright. But she does have help all around her, Tynan, the vampire and Jordan, the half-demon. While Keena is trying to learn and understand her role she also is struggling with her moral compass. All of this makes for one very enjoyable read. Yes it is hot but at the same time there is so much more to this than just the heat. I really loved this book and hope that Mari will revisit this world that she has so beautifully created.

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave

ISBN: 1419958852

Pages: 356

Series:

Volume:

Infatuate by Aimee Agresti

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance; Angels, Demons

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Haven Terra is still recovering from an internship that brought her literally to the brink of hell when a trip to New Orleans leads to more trouble. There, while taking part in a student volunteer program, Haven and her friends Dante and Lance run across an enclave of devils known as the Krewe. These shape-shifting devils are more reckless and vicious than any Haven, Lance, and Dante have encountered. Yet the friends soon discover that their French Quarter housemates are also angels in training, and together they must face off with the Krewe in their quest for wings. But Haven’s resolve is tested when Lucian, the repentant devil with whom she was infatuated, resurfaces and asks her for help escaping the underworld. Can he be trusted? Or will aiding him cost Haven her angel wings—and her life?

Haven and her friends have graduated and to fill the time before going to collage they head down to New Orleans to volunteer. Only it isn't at all as it seems. This is more like angel in training camp. Oh and the devils are around again too. And this is how are story starts. I like the change in the characters as they are discovering how to deal with everything. Haven has to deal with more than just relationship issues but also new friends that are getting hurt. I really love reading this story, and can't wait to see what is going to happen in the next book.

Publisher: Harcourt Children's Books

ISBN: 978-0547626154

Pages: 416

Series: Gilded Wings

Volume: 2

Heir to the Shadows by Anne Bishop

Genre: Fantasy; Witches, Magic, Demons, Winged People, Warlords, The Black Jewels Novel

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Dreams Made Flesh. The Blood have waited centuries for the coming of Witch, the living embodiment of magic. But Jaenelle, the young girl singled out by prophecy, is haunted by the cruel battles fought over her – for not all the Blood await her as their savior. Some dismiss her as myth. Some refuse to believe. And still others look forward to using her, making her a puppet to their whims. Only time and the love of her guardians have healed Jaenelle’s physical wounds. But her mind is still fragile, barely able to protect her from the terrible memories of her childhood. Nothing, however, and keep her from her destiny – and the day of reckoning looms near. When her memories return… when her magic matures… when she is forced to accept her fate. On that day, the dark Realms will know what it means to be ruled by Witch.

As the story continues we see Jaenelle grow. Meeting many of her friends who come and stay with her to learn and share along side Jaenelle. I was very happy when Lucivar found her again. But sadden that Daemon was in the Twisted Kingdom forgotten by Jaenelle. The story is starting to take on a darker path. As you meet more characters there are those that we loose. The way this is written you can’t help but to wonder what will happen next. How will it all turn out? I loved this book and am looking forward to reading the next book, The Queen of Darkness.

Publisher: ROC Fantasy

ISBN: 0451461517

Pages: 432

Series: The Black Jewels

Volume: 2

The Season by Sarah MacLean

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Historical Romance; 1800’s

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Seventeen-year-old Lady Alexandra Stafford doesn’t fit into the world of Regency London – she’s strong-willed, sharp-tongued, and she absolutely loathes dress fittings. Unfortunately, her mother has been waiting for years for Alex to be old enough to take part in the social whirlwind of a London season so she can be married off to someone safe, respectable, wealthy, and almost certainly boring. But Alex is much more interested in adventure than romance. Between sumptuous balls, lavish dinner parties, and country weekends, Alex, along with her two best friends, Ella and Vivi, manages to get entangled in her biggest scrape yet. When the Earl of Blackmoor is killed in a puzzling accident, Alex decides to help his son, the brooding and devilishly handsome Gavin, uncover the truth. It’s a mystery brimming with espionage, murder, and suspicion. As she and Gavin grow closer, will Alex’s heart be stolen in the process? Romance and danger fill the air, as this year’s season begins!

I quite enjoyed this story as it was set in London during Jane Austen’s time. I like all the old world charm that this has, balls and dinner parties. As well as fact that these girls are all ones that have their own opinion and show that there is more to them then just a pretty face. Alex and her friends are great characters who almost seem smarter than the male counterparts at times. Gavin is dashing as well as a bit of a rouge, falling for his best friends little sister. But the conversations between Gavin and Alex are brilliant. I love their interactions together. I highly enjoyed this book and look forward to any more books by Sara MacLean.

Publisher: Orchard Books

ISBN: 0545048877

Pages: 352

Series:

Volume: 

A Gentleman Always Remembers by Candace Camp

Genre: Historical Romance; 1800’s, Willowmere

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Married young to a charming but improvident army officer, Eve Hawthorne was widowed with little left except for a few extravagant trifles. Desperate to avoid her domineering stepmother, she accepts employment as chaperone to the Earl of Stewkesbury’s American cousins. Who better than a levelheaded widow to remind these young girls that they no longer live on a frontier? But when she flirts with a handsome stranger who turns out to be the earl’s brother Fitz, Eve worries she’s given the wrong impression. Trying to prove herself responsible—with Fitz challenging her at every turn—is hard enough, but a blackmailer with an interest in Eve’s prior marriage proves far more troubling. With the earl away, Eve can turn only to Fitz for help. But dare she confide in him, when getting too close to this confirmed bachelor might risk her heart to his alluring ways?

This is the second book in the Willowmere series. Eve is a widow that has been hired to help with Stewkesbury’s remaining American cousins. Fitz goes to collect her and bring her back to Willowmere. But he’s in a surprise as everyone is expecting that Eve is a middle aged widow and not so young. Soon they both find themselves drawn to one another. But mysterious letters start arriving that are threatening to Eve and her previous husband’s character. The story has a great twist to it. I actually enjoyed this story even more then the first on. Maybe it was that some of the characters where already known but I really like this story. Fitz also changes from the character that we knew and takes on responsibility. I found this to be a very good book and I am looking forward to the conclusion to the series in An Affair Without End.

Publisher: Pocket Star

ISBN: 1439117985

Pages: 384

Series: Willowmere

Volume: 2

Almost to Die For by Tate Hallaway

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampires, Witches, Vampire Princess of St. Paul

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: On her sixteenth birthday, Anastasija Parker learns that her so-called deadbeat dad is actually a vampire king. And he wants Ana to assume her rightful position at his side, in spite of the fact that she has witch's blood running through her veins-from her mother's side. Too bad witches and vampires are mortal enemies. And now Ana's parents are at each other's throats over her future. It's up to Ana to make a choice, but deciding your eternal destiny is a pretty big deal for a girl who just wants to get through high school.

This is the first book in the Vampire Princess of St. Paul series. Ana has been trained for years to become initiated into her coven. On the night of her initiation a man shows up at her home claiming to be her father. There is a lot more going on than her mother is telling her. The story is fast paced but very well written. Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down. I really like the Ana and how she wants to understand who she is as well as what she is capable of doing. I loved this book and can’t wait to see where this series will go. The next book in the series is Almost Final Curtain.

Publisher: NAL Trade

ISBN: 0451230574

Pages: 256

Series: Vampire Princess of St. Paul

Volume: 1

Emerald House Rising by Peg Kerr

Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Wizards

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The wizard of gems. A gemcutter’s daughter, Jena yearns to create jewelry for the Diadem Court – until the night a mysterious noble appears, wearing a ring only Jena can see. Its touch transports her to a distant fortress, where Jena learns that she possesses incredible, undreamt-of magical powers. Now, faced with a murderous plot for control of the Adamant Throne, Jena must master two sources of wonder. For only a wizard can wield the magic able to save the Diadem, and only a gemcutter can cleave the facets of sorcery that threaten to shatter the world. But only a woman can see the truth through a binding prism of ambition and fate…

This is one of those great fantasy stories that sticks with you. It has all the great plot twists, with magic, intrigue, and court dynamics. Jena is your unlikely heroin who is learning all about magic on the fly. Her only dream was to be a gemcutter and marry her tailor boyfriend. Then she finds herself far from home and not quite sure how she got there or how she is going to get home. She also has to find Lord Morgan, which turns out to be quite an interesting feet. But with the help of her new allies they are able to work wondrous magic. I loved this story the first time I read it. I found that it was one of those books that you just couldn’t put down. And have recommended it to many people who love fantasy.

Publisher: Aspect

ISBN: 0446603937

Pages: 336

Series:

Volume: 

A Kiss in Time by Alex Flinn

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Fantasy; Fairy Tale, Retelling, Sleeping Beauty, Fairies, Magic, Magical Sleep

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Talia fell under a spell… Jack broke the curse. I was told to beware the accursed spindle, but it was so enchanting, so hypnotic…I was looking for a little adventure the day I ditched my tour group. But finding a comatose town, with a hot-looking chick asleep in it, was so not what I had in mind. I awakened in the same place but in another time – to a stranger’s soft kiss. I couldn’t help kissing her. Sometimes you just have to kiss someone. I didn’t know this would happen. Now I am in dire trouble because my father, the king, says I have brought ruin upon our country. I have no choice but to run away with this commoner! Now I’m stuck with a bratty princess and a trunk full of her jewels…The good news: My parents will freak! Think you have dating issues? Try locking lips with a snoozing stunner who turns out to be 316 years old. Can a kiss transcend all – even time?

I had to read this retelling after reading Alex Flinn’s Beastly. This is the story of Sleeping Beauty. And it is beautifully written. It has all the magic of the original tale with the added brilliance of a modern twist. Our hero Jack is from Miami, FL and doesn’t think that his parents care about his opinion. Talia our princess has been so sheltered that she truly believes that her father hates her. The two together learn about themselves and each other in this tale. I loved reading it. It made me want to go explore Europe to find a magically asleep country. If you love Sleeping Beauty or even just a good love story you have to read this book.

Publisher: Harper Teen

ISBN: 006087421X

Pages: 400

Series:

Volume:

Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Historical Fantasy, Gothic Romance; Magic, Angels, Lost Souls

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Sixteen-year-old Lia Milthorpe has just recently lost her father, leaving her parentless. But when a strange mark appears on her wrist, she realizes she is being branded with much more than her newfound title of orphan. Lia and her twin sister, Alice, are part of an ancient prophecy that has turned generations of sisters against each other. Lia hides this discovery from Alice and even her beloved, James, but to escape from the burden this secret bestows she must end the prophecy – before her sister. Only then will she understand the mysterious circumstances of her parents’ deaths, the true meaning of the mark on her wrist, the lengths to which her sister will go to defeat her, and the downfall the prophecy could bring.

                                   

This story starts off with the death of Lia’s father. You can see how this is an older world but also slightly different from the one that we live in. The whole prophecy was quite well written, making it a puzzle for the characters to figure out. There is very few male characters in this story but it does not bring it down. Lia is a smart girl who is full of life and realizes that she has a very heavy burden. I thought this was very well written. I look forward to reading the next book in this series, Guardian of the Gate.

Publisher: Little, Brown

ISBN: 0316027413

Pages: 368

Series: Prophecy of the Sisters

Volume: 1

The Courage to Love by Samantha Kane

Genre: Erotic Romance

Sub Genre: Romance

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Kate Collier is still recovering from a vicious rape and trying to make a success of her dress shop when Jason Randal and Anthony Richards return to London from the Continent, intent on winning her. She's known them for years, ever since they served with her late husband in the Peninsula against Napoleon. She'd been in love with them for almost that long. To discover they feel the same is a shock, but Kate isn't ready to turn her life back over to a man, or men. Jason and Tony prove hard to resist, however, especially when their close friendship blossoms into desire for each other as they make Kate's body burn with passion. The combination of their insatiable desire for her and their journey into a sexual relationship with one another is irresistible to Kate. A nightmare from her past tries to keep them apart, but the three long for a life together in spite of society's censure, and they will not be denied. Reader advisory: Contains male/male sex scenes.

Now this book is for adults, it is very hot. This is a tale that has some great characters. Kate is someone who wants to try and make it on her own as she has a young girl to take care of. She does not trust herself with Jason and Tony even though she wants them both. She has been hurt and is dealing with her own hurt. Jason and Tony just want to take care of her and love her. They now just have to prove it. This is a very hot book but I couldn’t put it down once I started reading it. The story is really good and I really enjoyed reading this book. It is the first book in the Brothers in Arms series and I can’t wait to read the next one, Love Under Siege.

Publisher: Ellora's Cave

ISBN: 1419955349

Pages: 208

Series: Brothers in Arms

Volume: 1

The Plague by Joanne Dahme

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Historical Fiction; 1300’s

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Fifteen year-old Nell’s uncanny resemblance, to King Edward the Third’s daughter Princess Joan, brings the orphan and her brother George from the murky streets of fourteenth century London to a grand calling – a means of protection for the Royal Family by acting as a body double in times of danger. But as the plague that claimed the lives of Nell’s parents continues to ravish England and France, and eventually takes Princess Joan herself, Nell is forced by Joan’s brother, the Black Prince, to take on the princess’s identity for real. Nell must carry out a plan to expand the empire by marrying the Prince of Castile. Knowing she could never permanently play the role of the Princess, Nell is determined to return to England and report the truth of the Princess’s death to the King. With the help of a number of surprising characters – including a Spanish minstrel, a monk, a gravedigger, a band of merchants – and most devotedly by her brother and the young soldier Henry, Nell must escape not only the Black Prince and his army of rats, but the plague as well…

I haven’t read many historical novels. I got this book while I was at the Book Expo America. I couldn’t help but be curious about it having read the back cover. I thought that the character Henry was a brilliant one as he is seen at the beginning as a small youth and then we meet him again as a young man. Nell I found to feel as though she was week and yet she was able to stand up and protect those that she loved. She even tried to help those who where dieing of the plague. I really liked this story.

Publisher: Running Press Teens

ISBN: 0762433442

Pages: 272

Series:

Volume: 

Bleed by Laurie Faria Stolarz

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Fiction

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Nicole has a not-so-secret crush on her best friend’s boyfriend. Robby would kill for true…love he’s done it before. Joy hates boys, and today they’re going to pay. Derik can get any girl, except the one he wants. Kelly has two boyfriends, but one’s in jail. Sean just wants to do the right thing…or does he?

I thought that this was a interesting story. Every chapter is a different person’s point of view, and it all is taking place in one day. This was something that I wasn’t exactly expecting. My favorite story in this grouping is the one between Nicole and Sean. I would read another book about this world to see what happened with all the characters after this day. But I’m not sure that I will read this again, as there is a lot of jumping around. 

Publisher: Hyperion Paperbacks

ISBN: 0786838558

Pages: 240

Series:

Volume:

The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Genre: Fiction

Sub Genre: Science Fiction; Time Travel

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: A most untraditional love story, this is the celebrated tale of Henry DeTamble, a dashing, adventuresome librarian who involuntarily travels through time, and Clare Abshire, an artist whose life takes a natural sequential course. Henry and Clare’s passionate affair endures across a sea of time and captures them in an impossibly romantic trap that tests the strength of fate and basks in the bonds of love.

This is one of those stories that you will always remember reading. Henry who has no choice in when he travels or even where he travels through time, feels lost till he finds Clare. Who excepts him and what he can do after so many have never been able to. At times you can tell that they both have many questions about destiny and predestination. But they both seem to just work. And as much as Henry hates to make Clare wait she can’t help herself. She is totally his. I really loved this book.

Ok so I’ve also seen the movie. As the movie compares to the book, I will always say that the book is better then the movie as there is only so much that you can put into a movie. Not to say I didn’t like the movie. There just isn’t enough time for you to put all that happens into a two hours or even two and a half hours. For a movie rendition I liked it. But I did find that I like the book more. There are a few changes so that everything fits together. They also have slightly different endings. But all in all it is a good portrayal of the book, and I did enjoy it.

Publisher: A Harvest Book

ISBN: 0547119798

Pages: 560

Series:

Volume: 

Guardian of the Realm by Krystal George

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal; Magic, Fairy

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The Darkness - Taken when she was just seven years old, Esmeralda has very little memory of her life before the Realm. Power has always been her constant companion, protection has been her only goal, and acceptance by the magic she guards has always been her only wish. That is until the darkness comes... and with it comes the one person who can give her the greatest power of all... love. The Light - Losing his mother at a young age, Eric has always been the responsible one; the strong one. He'd had to be. His sister Kaitlyn had needed him. Now with Kaitlyn missing he is thrown into a world of secrets and deception. A world that until this moment he knew nothing about... a world that he is more a part of than he could have ever known. With darkness descending and time running out, can he become the man he is destined to be? Or will he fail and lose the girl he has come to love? The Realm - Beyond the doorway is a World of Enchantment and Myth. A world that once entered will grant you any wish your heart may desire... but only if you can get beyond... the Guardian.

The book is one of those great stories that pulls you in from the beginning, filled with magic and mystery. It is told in two different perspectives of Esmeralda and Eric. Flipping back and forth between them, and the way it is written it has a very smooth transition. The description of the way of life of the fey is brilliant. I liked the self discovery of the two main characters. This is a great story and I really enjoyed reading it.

Publisher: Dragonfly Publishing

AISN: B00BKS3KEY

Pages: 172

Series:

Volume:

Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister by Gregory Maguire

Genre: Fantasy

Sub Genre: Re-telling of a Fairy Tale

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: We have all heard the story of Cinderella, the beautiful child cast out to slave among the ashes. But what of her stepsisters, the homely pair exiled into ignominy by the fame of their lovely sibling? What fate befell those untouched by beauty… and what curses accompanied Cinderella’s looks? Set against the backdrop of seventeenth-century Holland, Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister tells the story of Iris, an unlikely heroine who finds herself swept from the lowly streets of Haarlem to a strange world of wealth, artifice, and ambition. Iris’s path quickly becomes intertwined with that of Clara, the mysterious and unnaturally beautiful girl destined to become her sister. While Clara retreats to the cinders of the family hearth. Iris seeks out the shadowy secrets of her new household – and the treacherous truth of her former life. Far more than a mere fairy tale, Confessions of an Ugly Stepsisteris a novel of beauty and betrayal, illusion and understanding, reminding us that deception can be unearthed – and love unveiled – in the most unexpected of places.

This was one of the first re-telling fairy tales I ever read. Now Gregory Maguire is best known for his renditions of the Wizard of OZ, Wicked. But I think that this is one story that gets over looked. It shouldn’t it is a good story. Told from the Ugly stepsister who is more then what the stories say she is. It also has a different look at Clara, aka Cinderella here. The way it is told gives all the characters more depth. I enjoyed it as more of light reading then anything. IF you enjoy re-telling stories then you should read this.

Publisher: Harper Collins

ISBN: 0061960551

Pages: 384

Series:

Volume:

Daughter of the Blood by Anne Bishop

Genre: Fantasy; Witches, Magic, Demons, Winged People, Warlords, The Black Jewels Novel

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The once and Future Queen. Seven hundred years ago, a Black Widow witch saw an ancient prophecy come to life in her dazzling web of dreams and visions. Now the Dark Realm readies itself for the arrival of its Queen, a witch who will wield more power than even the High Lord of Hell himself. But she is still young, still open to influence – and corruption. Whoever controls the Queen controls the Darkness. Three men – sworn enemies – know that. And they know the power that hides behind the blue eyes of an innocent young girl. And so begins a ruthless game of politics and intrigue, magic and betrayal, where the weapons are hate and love…and the prize could be terrible beyond imagining…

A world that has three different levels, where women rule. The men do most of the fighting as the women are more dangerous. This story is very well done. It’s a flip of our world with some added elements. Even our religious views are turned on their head. I loved how the world is described. The teaching of magic to the prophesied queen and how she comes in and out of the picture is very interesting. I thought that this was a great start for this series. It was so dynamic with the character view point changing, with it not causing any confusion. Great book and enjoyed reading it.

Publisher: ROC Fantasy

ISBN: 0451461487

Pages: 384

Series: The Black Jewels

Volume: 1

The Host by Stephenie Meyer

Genre: Science Fiction, Aliens

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. The earth has been invaded by a species that take over the minds of their human hosts while leaving their bodies intact, and most of humanity has succumbed. Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, knew about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the too vivid memories. But there was one difficulty Wanderer didn't expect: the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind. Melanie fills Wanderer's thoughts with visions of the man Melanie loves-Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body's desires, Wanderer yearns for a man she's never met. As outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off to search for the man they both love. Featuring what may be the first love triangle involving only two bodies, THE HOST is a riveting and unforgettable novel that will bring a vast new readership to one of the most compelling writers of our time.

This is Stephenie Meyer’s first adult book. I wasn’t sure if it was going to be any good as there have been some authors that once they write one outstanding series the rest of their books just can’t compete. This is not one of those times. The Host was well thought out with amazing character development. I thought the inner dialogue between Wanda and Melanie was great. The relationships that are created between all the characters made this a delightful to read. This is more than just a story about aliens or love. It's about the human condition. Our own inner strength. I loved reading this book, and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. The movie that will be out 3/29/2013, which I'm looking forward to see.

Publisher: Little, Brown

ISBN: 0316068055

Pages: 656

Series: Host

Volume: 1

A Shimmer of Angels by Lisa M. Basso

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance; Angels, Fallen Angels

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Sixteen-year-old Rayna sees angels, and has the medication and weekly therapy sessions to prove it. Now, in remission, Rayna starts fresh at a new school, lands a new job, and desperately tries for normalcy. She ignores signs that she may be slipping into the world she has tried so hard to climb out of. But these days, it’s more than just hallucinations that keep Rayna up at night. Students are dying, and she may be the only one who can stop it. Can she keep her job, her sanity, and her friends from dying at the hands of angels she can't admit to seeing?

The story starts with Ray thinking that she is losing her mind and will be locked away, again. We learn that Ray can see angels and has always been told that she was crazy for it. But not only can she see angels she can see fallen angels, which is something neither side can do. This is a well written story. Ray is very dynamic and fast thinking. The supporting characters felt real and well rounded. Kade and Cam are such opposites and yet so similar. It's fun to watch them fight. I really enjoyed reading this book, and look forward to reading the next book in the series, A Slither of Hope.

Publisher: Month9Books, LLC

ISBN: 9780985029432

Pages: 321

Series: Angel Sight

Volume: 1

Bewitching Season by Marissa Doyle

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Historical Paranormal Romance; Magic, Witches, London, Ireland, Leland Sisters, 1837-1838

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Magic or Marriage? Twins Persephone and Penelope Leland are anticipating their first London season with mixed feelings. Pen can’t wait to flirt with handsome young men at parties, but Persy would far rather stay home and continue her magic studies. When the twins discover that their governess has been kidnapped as part of a dastardly plot to enchant the soon-to-be queen, they’re determined to find and save them both. Along the way, Persy learns that a good lady’s maid is hard to find, that one should never cast a love spell on anyone after drinking too much brandy punch at a party, that pesky little brothers can sometimes come in handy, and that husband-hunting isn’t such an odious task after all, if you can find the right quarry.

This is a very imaginative book where a set of twins are in search of love and magic, and end up saving the soon to be queen. It changes character perspective throughout the story but in such away so that you can see what is going on. Persy is a beautiful girl who feels that she is a toned down version of her identical twin. She is also very much into her magic studies and doesn’t want to deal with her first season. But all the other characters also come into play throughout the story, which makes for a brilliant story. I couldn’t put it down and am looking forward to reading the next book, Betraying Season.

Publisher: Square Fish

ISBN: 0312596952

Pages: 368

Series: Leland Sisters

Volume: 1

A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Valkyries, Vampires, Werewolves, Immortals After Dark

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: A mythic warrior who’ll stop at nothing to possess her… After enduring years of torture from the vampire horde, Lachlain MacRieve, leader of the Lykae Clan, is enraged to find that predestined mate he’s waited millennia for is a vampire. Or partly one. This Emmaline is a small, ethereal half Valkyrie /half vampire, who somehow begins to soothe the fury burning within him. A vampire captured by her wildest fantasy… Sheltered Emmaline Troy finally sets out to uncover the truth about her deceased parents – until a powerful Lykae claims her as his mate and forces her back to his ancestral Scottish castle. There, her fear of the Lykae – and their notorious dark desires – ebbs as he begins a slow, wicked seduction to sate her own dark cravings. An all-consuming desire. . . Yet when an ancient evil from her past resurfaces, will their desires deepen into a love that can bring a proud warrior to his knees and turn a gentle beauty into the fighter she was born to be?

This adds a new element to the paranormal, the Valkyries. Emma goes in search of her parents but what she finds is Lachlain. There is a lot of action going on as vampires are trying to get to Emma so they can claim leadership. The Valkyries are involved as Emma is their niece. It’s one of those books that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. I found the story to be very inventive putting together different paranormals that we haven’t seen together. The way Emma matures from being a very sheltered individual to someone who takes charge of her own life was brilliant. I enjoyed reading this book very much.

Publisher: Pocket Star Books

ISBN: 1416509879

Pages: 384

Series: Immortals After Dark

Volume: 1

The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Historical Fantasy; Magic, Wonderland, Retelling, Fairy Tale

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Alyss of Wonderland? When Alyss Heart, heir to the Wonderland throne, must flee through the Pool of Tears to escape her murderous aunt Redd, she finds herself lost and alone in Victorian London. Befriended by an aspiring author named Lewis Carroll, Alyss tells the violent, heartbreaking story of her young life. Alyss trusts this author to tell the truth so that someone, somewhere will find her and bring her home. But he gets the story all wrong. He even spells her name incorrectly! Fortunately, Royal Bodyguard Hatter Madigan knows all too well the awful truth of Alyss’ story and he is searching every corner of our world to find the lost princess and return her to Wonderland so she may eventually battle Redd for her rightful place as the Queen of Hearts. The Looking Glass Wars unabashedly challenges our Wonderland assumptions surrounding mad tea parties, grinning Cheshire cats, and a curious little blond girl to reveal an epic battle in the endless war for Imagination.

This is the first book in the trilogy of the Looking Glass Wars. It isn’t the Alice and Wonderland that you read as a child. This is a dark story that is what really happened to Alyss Heart. The tale takes from Wonderland to Victorian London and back. There is much adventure and treachery. I found this story to keep me on my toes and I enjoyed it’s every twist and turn. The story sucks you right in and transports you back in time and to Wonderland as well. The writing is brilliantly done. This is one of those books that you won’t be able to put down. I can’t wait to read the next book in the trilogy, Seeing Redd.

Publisher: Dial

ISBN: 0142409413

Pages: 400

Series: Looking Glass Wars

Volume: 1

Breath of Fire by Tammy Kane

Genre: Fantasy; Dragons, Magic

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: When the dragon came to claim him, Karl knew his great plan had gone horribly wrong. If he had known the creature was real, he wouldn’t have scoffed at the villagers…and he certainly wouldn’t have been so quick to let them chain him to a rock. Mattaen Initiates trained as warriors, but no man could defeat a dragon. “My name is Elera daughter of Shane. And you, Initiate, are my virgin prize.” She had vanquished the beast and named her price: one night with the virgin sacrifice she’d saved. He’d taken a vow of chastity, but Karl still had a man’s needs – and Elera’s sultry curves made him ache to taste his first woman. With a scorching kiss she shattered his defenses…and led him into a world of deception and seduction, where he’d be forced to choose between the brotherhood that had raised him and the woman whose courage set his heart on fire.

Its been some time since I have read a good fantasy. Breath of Fire is one of those that you can tell is starting up as what could be a great saga. Karl and Elera’s relationship starts off rocky, to say the least. He’s the damsel in distress and she is the knight in shinning armor. Or so she leads him to believe. She is as strong willed as the bull that she rides. I love this character. She has her girly moments but they are outweigh the times when she speaks her mind. I thought that it was a beautiful story and look forward to the next one.

Publisher: Love Spell

ISBN: 0505528169

Pages: 291

Series:

Volume: 

Imzadi (Star Trek: The Next Generation) by Peter David

Genre: Science Fiction; Star Trek, Space

Sub Genre: Romance

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Years before they served together on board the U.S.S. Enterprise, Commander William Riker and ship's counselor Deanna Troi had a tempestuous love affair on her home planet of Betazed. Now, their passions have cooled and they serve together as friends. Yet the memories of that time linger and Riker and Troi remain Imzadi - a powerful Betazoid term that describes the enduring bond they still share. During delicate negotiations with an aggressive race called the Sindareen Deanna Troi mysteriously falls ill and dies. But her death is only the beginning of the adventure for Commander Riker, an adventure that will take him across time, pit him against one of his closest friends, and force him to choose between Starfleet's strictest rule and the one he calls Imzadi.

This is a Star Trek: The Next Generation novel. The story takes us through Deanna and Will’s relationship from the begin. But it doesn’t go the way you would think. Now if you are a Star Trek fan you will know a lot more about these characters. And this book was written before the movie in which they had gotten married in takes place. So there may be some differences. But the story is solid and well written. I’m not that big on reading these books but a friend told I had to at least read this one. I have to say I’m very glad that I did. I really enjoyed the twist on the characters. Even with the differences it made for a great read.

Publisher: Star Trek

ISBN: 0671867296

Pages: 342

Series: Imzadi

Volume: 1

A Lady Never Tells by Candace Camp

Genre: Historical Romance; 1800’s

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: When Mary Bascombe’s stepfather tries to sell her and her sisters to the highest bidder after their mother’s death, she resolves to take drastic action. Although their British mother was estranged from her family, Mary decides the four will flee to London and take their place in society as granddaughters of the Earl of Stewkesbury. Dashing Sir Royce Winslow doubts the honesty of the young women’s claim—despite their charms, they seem to be hiding something. His attraction to feisty Mary, however, is no ruse, so when the sisters are shipped off to Willowmere, the earl’s country estate, to acquire some polish, Royce is quick to join them. When an unknown villain attempts a kidnapping, Royce and Mary are thrown together as they confront the danger . . . and Royce learns that while high society may sing the praises of proper behavior, it is a most improper American who is winning his heart.

This is the first book in the Willowmere series. Mary comes to England with her three sisters to find a grandfather that her mother had to leave. When things start going badly they are rescued by Sir Royce. As things unfold we find that they keep getting thrown together. The two keep have such a dynamic conversations that keep the story going. The side characters are just as well written. With the twists and turns in the story just keep it that much more exciting. I really liked this book and can’t wait to read the next book, A Gentleman Always Remembers.

Publisher: Pocket Star

ISBN: 1439117977

Pages: 480

Series: Willowmere

Volume: 1

Dragons of Autumn Twilight by Margaret Weis & Tracy Hickman

Genre: Fantasy; Dragons, Magic, Elves, Kender, Dwarves, Gnomes, Goblins, Minotaurs, Gods

Sub Genre: Dragonlance

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Life-long friends, they went their separate ways. Now they are together again, though each holds secrets from the others in his heart. They speak of a world shadowed with rumors of war. They speak of tales of strange monsters, creatures of myth, creatures of legend. They do not speak of their secrets. Not then. Not until a chance encounter with a beautiful, sorrowful woman, who bears a magical crystal staff, draws the companions deeper into the shadows, forever changing their lives and shaping the fate of the world. No one expected them to be heroes. Least of all, themselves.

This is a story of a band friends who come together to fight for the fate of the World. It is the first book in a trilogy, which follows these not so likely heroes. While weaving a tale of magic and mystery. I found the story to captivate and suck you in. Once I started it I couldn’t stop. Of all the different characters I loved Tasslehoff Burrfoot the Kender. This is one of those epic fantasy novels that you can’t get enough of. It is a brilliantly written book that I loved.

Publisher: Wizards of the Coast

ISBN: 0786915749

Pages: 448

Series: Dragonlance Chronicles

Volume: 1