Undeadly by Michele Vail

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal; Egyptian Mythology, Reapers, Magic

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The day I turned 16, my boyfriend-to-be died. I brought him back to life. Then things got a little weird… Molly Bartolucci wants to blend in, date hottie Rick and keep her zombie-raising abilities on the down-low. Then the god Anubis chooses her to become a reaper—and she accidentally undoes the work of another reaper, Rath. Within days, she's shipped off to the Nekyia Academy, an elite boarding school that trains the best necromancers in the world. And her personal reaping tutor? Rath. Life at Nekyia has its pluses. Molly has her own personal ghoul, for one. Rick follows her there out of the blue, for another…except, there's something a little off about him. When students at the academy start to die and Rath disappears, Molly starts to wonder if anything is as it seems. Only one thing is certain—Molly's got an undeadly knack for finding trouble….

Molly turns 16 and her whole life changes. First she as a dream of Anubis and she excepts to be his. But she doesn't quite know what that means. At her birthday party the boy that she cares for dies and she brings him back using her powers. She then learns about family she didn't even know that she had and gets sent to Nekyia Academy. And then things really begin to change. This is a great interpretation of Egyptian mythology. The world is filled with people who can be necromancers and magic. I found this book to be inventive and well written. I look forward to reading the next book in the series, Unchosen.

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

ISBN: 978-0-373-21046-6

Pages: 272

Series: The Reaper Diaries

Volume: 1

Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampire, Magic, Ghouls

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Flirting with the grave…Half-vampire Catherine Crawfield is going after the undead with a vengeance, hoping that one of these deadbeats is her father – the one responsible for ruining her mother’s life. Then she’s captured by Bones, a vampire bounty hunter, and is forced into an unholy partnership. In exchange for finding her father, Cat agrees to train with the sexy night stalker until her battle reflexes are as sharp as his fangs. She’s amazed she doesn’t end up as his dinner – are there actually good vampires? Pretty soon Bones will have her convinced that being half-dead doesn’t have to be all bad. But before she can enjoy her newfound status as kick-ass demon hunter, Cat and Bones are pursued by a group of killers. Now Cat will have to choose a side…and Bones is turning out to be as tempting as any man with a heartbeat.

Cat dose not take anything from anyone. She goes out every night to kill vampires to make her mother happy. But once she and Bones get together she gets a new perspective on vampires. Heck she even totally falls for Bones. But then I can’t say I blame her. Cat is nothing like you expect. Bones is one of those characters that you just love. I got so captivated by this I was shocked when it was over. And not just how it ended. I'm just glad I have the more of this series as I can't wait to read the next book, One Foot in the Grave.

Publisher: Avon Books

ISBN: 0061245089

Pages: 384

Series: Night Huntress

Volume: 1

Dark Lover by J. R. Ward

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampires, Soulless Humans

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: In the shadows of the night in Caldwell, New York, there’s a deadly turf war going on between vampires and their slayers. There exists a secret band of brothers like no other – six vampire warriors, defenders of their race. Yet none of them relishes killing their enemies more than Wrath, the leader of the Black Dagger Brotherhood… The only purebred vampire left on the planet, Wrath has a score to settle with the slayers who murdered his parents centuries ago. But when one of his most trusted fighters is killed – orphaning a half-breed daughter unaware of her heritage or her fate – Wrath must usher the beautiful female into the world of the undead…Racked by a restlessness in her body that wasn’t there before, Beth Randall is helpless against the dangerously sexy man who comes to her at night with shadows in his eyes. His tales of brotherhood and blood frighten her. But his touch ignites a dawning hunger that threatens to consume them both…

This is the first book in the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series. A friend of mine introduced me to this series, and I thank her every time I see her. Wrath is your reluctant hero, who not only is to lead the Brotherhood but also his people. How the story changes from character to character is very fluid. I love Beth and Wrath together, even though I did feel bad for Butch. How both him and Beth had to give up the lives that they knew. But I think that it was a good thing all in all. I just fell in love with this story. A new take on the vampire legends that is inspiring. I can't wait to read the next book in this series, Lover Eternal.

Publisher: Signet Eclipse

ISBN: 0451216954

Pages: 416

Series: The Black Dagger Brotherhood

Volume: 1

How to Seduce a Duke by Kathryn Caskie

Genre: Historical Romance; 1800’s, Royal Sisters

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Who are the Royle sisters? All of London is whispering about the beautiful triplets. Could they really be the "secret" daughters of the highest prince in the land? As for the oldest... Why is the notorious Duke of Blackstone ruining Mary Royle's well-laid plans to marry his brother, the handsome Viscount Wetherly? Every time she turns a corner, he is there--tantalizing her, teasing her...and the more she tries to ignore him, the more insistent he becomes. Mary knows she must make an advantageous marriage, but Blackstone is the wrong man for her. Isn't he? Blackstone is not about to let his brother become bewitched by some wily blueblood pretender...even one as deliciously tempting as Mary Royle. But until she came along, no woman has ever resisted his smooth, well-practiced seductions. Could it be that he has actually fallen in love with this infuriating miss?

This is the first book in the Royal Sisters trilogy. Mary is the oldest of the triplets. And she wants to marry the Viscount Wetherly. Rogan believes that Mary is just after his brother’s money and decides that he must put an end to it. As the two play a game of wits they keep misunderstanding the other. I really love the game of wits in this story. There is also a bit of mystery in them trying to figure out the girls origins. The story is very imaginative and entertaining. I found it to be a book I couldn’t put down and can’t wait to read the next book in the trilogy, How to Engage an Earl.

Publisher: Avon

ISBN: 0061124567

Pages: 352

Series: Royal Sisters

Volume: 1

Silver's Edge by Anne Kelleher

Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Shadowlands, Sidhe, Fey

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Through the Shadowlands: where the touch of silver was protections, power and peril. Unwillingly entwined . . . There is more danger than usual in the Otherworld of the Sidhe and the mortal world of the Shadowlands. An unlikely group of conspirators -- both mortal and Sidhe -- plot to overthrow both thrones. They'd stolen the silver caul that protected the borders between the realms -- and set into motion a most perilous war. A blacksmith's daughter, a Sidhe lady, a mortal queen. Three women stand against the encroaching evil. All they have is a girl's love for her father, a lady's for her queen -- and a queen's for her country. Nessa, Delphinea and Cecily are each driven by a personal destiny, yet share a fierce sense of love, justice and determination to protect what is theirs. Will the spirit and strength of these women be enough to turn back the tide of the goblin hordes waiting to overrun the kingdoms? Perhaps. But the battle must still be fought . . .

This is a complicated story that follows three different women. Each has a roll to play and not one that they ever thought of. But they must follow their destiny or the world as they know it will fall. The idea behind the story is very good but the follow through for it isn’t great. There are some times that the change from one character to the other isn’t very smooth. And I didn’t feel a great connection between the characters. I didn’t like this story very much.

Publisher: Harlequin

ISBN: 0373811144

Pages: 544

Series: Shadowlands

Volume: 1

Warrior Ascended by Addison Fox

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Immortals, Gods, Abilities, Magic, The Sons of the Zodiac

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Millennia ago, the Goddess of justice created a race of fierce warriors, each imbued with a special power if the Zodiac and charged with protecting humanity from the darkest of evils. Charming, proud, and impulsive, Leo Warrior Brody Talbot is fighting what may be his final battle. Enyo, the Goddess of War, plans to fulfill an ancient prophecy to destroy humanity by harnessing the dark power of the Summoning Stones of Egypt – and there’s only one person who knows enough about the stones to help Brody diminish their strength. Since her father’s murder, museum curator Ava Harrison has continued his research of Egypt’s ancient treasures. She’s just landed the exhibit of the century: displaying the Summoning Stones at New York’s American Museum of Natural History. Used to working alone, Ava is suspicious of the arrogant archaeologist who’s been brought in to ensure the stone’s safekeeping, but his presence ignites an unexpected blaze of attraction. Never in all his centuries has Brody met a woman who enthralls him as Ava does. But, bound to protect her, he struggles to deny his passion as they are drawn into a dark and dangerous final reckoning between good and evil.

This is the first book in the Sons of the Zodiac series. Brody is on a dig in Egypt only to have to deal with fighting a Destroyer and losing a friend. He then goes to protect Ava. Ava is so wrapped up in her work that she doesn’t even notice Brody following her. This only annoys Brody. But then things change and Ava is attacked. Now they must work together to retrieve the Summoning Stones. The story is filled with adventure and danger as well as magic and romance. The whole aspect of the warriors and the zodiac is very imaginative. I love the twist on the old mixing in with the new. The strong emphasis on the zodiac was great. I really loved this book and can’t wait to read the next one in the series, Warrior Avenged.

Publisher: Signet Eclipse

ISBN: 045122938X

Pages: 384

Series: Sons of the Zodiac

Volume: 1

Night Life by Elizabeth Guest

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampires, Magic, Pharaohs Rising

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: He returned from death…Venerable pharaoh and ancient god of the Nile, Adrian King once sat upon his throne and led his people nobly, only to be betrayed. But a sacred ritual has allowed him to reawaken thousands of years after his death – as a vampire. Now the owner of the Royal Palace, a hotel and casino in Las Vegas, he is haunted by dreams of a beautiful woman – and by the dawning of an evil presence. …and brought her fantasies to life. Egyptologist Christine Day is drawn to the Royal Palace by its breathtaking authenticity. She is the woman Adrian has been dreaming of, the only one who can evoke real sensual passions in this fierce warrior and leader. Compelled to share his well-kept secret with Christine, he puts her at great risk. For others have awakened who will not rest until Adrian is destroyed again, even if it means taking the only true love he’s ever known…

This is the first book in the Pharaohs Rising series. Adrian King was once one of the great pharaoh. A warrior king in fact. But he had no great love and died young. Christine Day is an Egyptologist who has a true passion for her work. When the two meet there is true magic. This is one of those novels to take with you on a long plane ride or if you want something light to read on a vacation. There is action and romance mixed in with a bit of danger. I liked it and will look for the second book in the series, Night Hunger.

Publisher: Berkley Sensation

ISBN: 0425214826

Pages: 304

Series: Pharaohs Rising

Volume: 1

Song in the Silence by Elizabeth Kerner

Genre: Fantasy; Dragons, The Tale of Lanen Kaelar, Demons, Magic

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Lanen Kaelar has dreamed of dragons all her life. But not just dreaming, for Lanen believes in dragons. Her family mocks her that dragons are just a silly myth. A legend. But Lanen knows better. And she means to prove it. One day she sets out on a dangerous voyage to the remote West to find the land of the True Dragons. What she discovers is a land of real dragons more beautiful-and surprising-than any dream she could have imagined.

This isn’t like your average dragon story. Lanen Kaelar is one of those female leads that does what she wants after realizing that she can. She is such a strong character and very intelligent.  The relationship that she has with the dragons is brilliant. I love how they interact with one another. The build up on this story is amazing. I told everyone about it the first time I read it. This was a great story and I can't wait to read the next in the series, The Lesser Kindred.

Publisher: TOR

ISBN: 0765342685

Pages: 352

Series: The Tale of Lanen Kaelar

Volume: 1

Once a Witch by Carolyn MacCullough

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy; Witches, Magic, Time Travel

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: “Your daughter will be one of the most powerful we have ever seen in this family. She will be a beacon for us all.” Tamsin Greene comes from a long line of witches, and on the day she was born, her grandmother proclaimed she would be one of the most Talented among them. But Tamsin’s magic never showed up. Now, seventeen years later, she spends most of her time at boarding school in Manhattan, where she can at least pretend to be normal. But during the summers, she’s forced to return home and work at her family’s bookstore/magic shop. One night a handsome young professor from New York University arrives in the shop and mistakes Tamsin for her extremely Talented older sister. For once, it’s Tamsin who’s being looked at with awe and admiration, and before she can stop herself, she agrees to find a family heirloom for him that was lost more than a century ago. But the search – and the stranger – prove to be more sinister than they first appeared, Ultimately sending Tamsin on a treasure hunt through time that will unlock the secret of her family, and unleash a power so strong and so vengeful that it could destroy them all.

This is one of the first urban fantasy stories about witches, that is written for young adults that I have seen. Tamsin is a beautiful character who feels like she’s not in the right family. That they even like to, through the fact that she doesn’t have magic in her face. Then things begin to change for her very fast, and they come one right after another. Soon not only is she treasure hunting but also trying to save her sister without destroying timelines. Gabriel is a brilliant love interest/partner for Tam. The two of them want to pursue their growing feelings for one another, but at the same time have to fix the problems that they have created. This is one of those stories that keeps you guessing what will happen. Tam's whole world changes after a chance encounter. And it just runs, but in a brilliantly written way. The characters are great and you really get a feel for them very quickly. I can't wait to see what happens next in Always a Witch.

Publisher: Clarion Books

ISBN: 0547417306

Pages: 312

Series: Witch

Volume: 1

Unbound by Kim Harrison, Melissa Marr, Jeaniene Frost, Vicki Pettersson, Jocelynn Drake

Genre: Urban Fantasy; Super Heroes, Pixies, Nymphs, Magic, Vampires, Glaistigs

Sub Genre: Paranormal

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Five master of dark fantasy cross the borders between our world and others. Not all hunters are bound by human laws… Revisiting the paranormal realms they’ve made famous in their wildly popular fiction. New York Times bestselling authors Kim Harrison, Jeaniene Frost, Vicki Pettersson, and Jocelynn Drake – plus New York Times bestselling YA Melissa Marr with her first adult supernatural thriller – unleash their full arsenal of dark talents, plunging us into the shadows where the supernatural stalk the unsuspecting… and every soul is a target. Get ready for the ride of your life – because the widest magic has just been unleashed… and evil is about to have its day.

This is an anthology of some of the bestselling authors in Urban Fantasy. We get to have a short story for Jenks, Bones, J.J., and Mira. I’m not going into them only as they are short stories and I don’t want to give anything away. These stories also fall under other series like the first in the Night Huntress - Complete World by Jeaniene Frost, 7.5 for the Hollows by Kim Harrison, 4.5 Signs of the Zodiac by Vicki Pettersson,  0.7 Dark Days by Jocelynn Drake. One of the things that I really liked was that there are some that are connected to the series that the writers have already begun. I really love this book and hope they do another one.

Publisher: EOS

ISBN: 0061699934

Pages: 368

Series:

Volume:

Enchanting the Lady by Kathryne Kennedy

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Shapeshifters, Magic, Relics of Merlin

Sub Genre: Historical Romance; 1800’s

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: In a world where magic ruled everything, Felicity Seymour couldn't perform even the simplest spell. If she didn't pass her testing, she'd lose her duchy--and any hope of marriage. But one man didn't seem to mind her lack of dowry: a darkly delicious baronet who had managed to scare away the rest of London's Society misses. Sir Terence Blackwell knew the enchanting woman before him wasn't entirely without magic. Not only could she completely disarm him with her gorgeous lavender eyes and frank candor, but his were-lion senses could smell a dark power on her--the same kind of relic-magic that had killed his brother. Was she using it herself, or was it being used against her? One needed a husband, and the other needed answers. But only together could they find the strongest magic of all: true love.

This is the first book in the Relics of Merlin series. Felicity has grown up being forgotten and can’t perform any magic. Sir Terence is a were and when he first sees Felicity knows something is going on with her. To get closer to her he starts to court her. As they get to know each other he learns that there is more to what he originally thought after a visit to her home. The story is a great mix of Paranormal and Historical Romance. The characters are well written with great interaction. I liked this story and can’t wait to read the second book in this series, Double Enchantment.

Publisher: Love Spell

ISBN: 1428510885

Pages: 304

Series: Relics of Merlin

Volume: 1

Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley

Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Arthurian Legend

Sub Genre: Romance

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Down from the high hill of Camelot, across the lake and through the mists, lies the shrouded isle of Avalon. It is here that the mystical story of King Arthur begins… In Marion Zimmer Bradley’s brilliant reworking of the powerful Arthurian epic, we see the tumult and adventures of Camelot’s court through the eyes of the women who bolstered the king’s rise and schemed for his fall. There is Morgaine, an intense woman gifted with the Sight, who has sworn to keep the old religion alive against the growing tide of Christianity that threatens her way of life – even if it means fighting a deadly battle against her beloved brother. And the devout Gwenhwyfar, married to Arthur out of a sense of duty, determined to bring Britain into the light of her God. From their childhoods through the ultimate fulfillment of their destinies, we follow these women and the diverse cast of characters that surrounds them as the great Arthurian epic unfolds stunningly before us. As Morgaine and Gwenhwyfar struggle for control over the face of Arthur’s kingdom, as the Knights of the Round Table take on their infamous quest, as Merlin and Viviane wield their magics for the future of Old Britain, the Isle of Avalon slips further into the impenetrable mists of memory, until the fissure between old and new worlds – and old and new religions – claims its most famous victim.

This is a great retelling of the Arthurian Legend, told from a women’s perspective. The story shows each of the woman as they grow into the powerful characters that we know. I don’t want to go too much into as the twists to this are very well written. And even if you know the legend there are surprises that will keep you reading for more. I love this book. I’ve read it so many times that I really feel like I’ve been there. This is one of those books you have to read. I look forward to reading the next book in this series, The Forest House.

Publisher: Del Rey

ISBN: 0345441184

Pages: 912

Series: Avalon

Volume: 1

Betraying Season by Marissa Doyle

Genre: Young Adult

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

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Penelope Leland has come to Ireland to study magic and prove to herself that she is as good a witch as her twin sister, Persy. But when the dashing Niall Keating begins to court her, Pen can’t help being distracted from her studies. Little does Pen know Niall is acting upon orders from his sorceress mother. And although it starts as a sham, Niall actually falls deeply in love with Pen, and she with him. Even if he halts his mother’s evil plan, will Pen be able to forgive him for trying to seduce her into a plot? And what of Pen’s magic, which seems to be increasingly powerful?

In this story we get to follow Pen to Ireland. Soon after arriving she meets Niall Keating as well his scheming mother and sister. As she grows in her magic studies she gets pulled towards the Keatings. She falls in love not only with Niall as well as with Ireland. There is so much more to this story but I don’t want to ruin it for anyone. I really loved this story it has court intrigue and romance. It’s so imaginative. I have to say that I actually like this book even more then the first one. But you really should read both as they are very good and I will definitely be reading the next book Courtship and Curses.

Publisher: Square Fish

ISBN: 0312629168

Pages: 336

Series: Leland Sisters

Volume: 2

The Elite by Kiera Cass

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Science Fiction; Romance; Future, Class System

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Thirty-five girls came to the palace to compete in the Selection. All but six have been sent home. And only one will get to marry Prince Maxon and be crowned princess of Illea. America still isn’t sure where her heart lies. When she’s with Maxon, she’s swept up in their new and breathless romance, and can’t dream of being with anyone else. But whenever she sees Aspen standing guard around the palace, and is overcome with memories of the life they planned to share. With the group narrowed down to the Elite, the other girls are even more determined to win Maxon over—and time is running out for America to decide. Just when America is sure she’s made her choice, a devastating loss makes her question everything again. And while she’s struggling to imagine her future, the violent rebels that are determined to overthrow the monarchy are growing stronger and their plans could destroy her chance at any kind of happy ending.

This is the second book in the Selection series. America is still working to stay in the selection for Maxon. But every time she feels that she understands what is going on the rug is pulled out from under her. The addition of Aspen at the palace adds another complication. When tragedy strikes it makes America really question if she still wants to be a part of this selection or even be with Maxon. The story keeps you guessing the whole time. I love that we see more of our favorite characters and more sass from America and Maxon. I can't wait to see where this story is going to.

Publisher: HarperTeen

ISBN: 978-0062059963

Pages: 336

Series: The Selection

Volume: 2

Stolen Night by Rebecca Maizel

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampires, Magic,

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Lenah Beaudonte should be dead. But having sacrificed herself to save another, she finds herself awakening with strange powers that are neither vampire nor human—and a new enemy on her trail. In her vampire life, Lenah had thought that being human was all she ever wanted; but the human heart suffers pain, heartbreak and loss. With her new powers growing and the dark force of the Nex after her soul, Lenah faces a choice: between the mortal love of gorgeous Justin, whose passion fed her human soul, and taking a different path to become the mistress of her own destiny, wherever that may lead...

Lenah discovers that she is human again and Rhode is back. But there are conditions on her new found humanity. It's all a matter of choices. This story is very complicated and well written. I love how there are so many twists. Lenah really impressed me. As your pulled more into their world you see more of the Lenah and Rhode's past. I really loved reading this book and hope that there will be more to this series as I really enjoyed it.

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

ISBN: 978-0312649920

Pages: 320

Series: Vampire Queen

Volume: 2

Green Eyes by Karen Robards

Genre: Historical Romance; 1800’s

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: He would steal her greatest jewel…Anna Traverne will never forget that evening back in England when a bold intruder stole into her chambers -- a dark and daring jewel thief who came for treasures and inflamed her passions with a brazen caress. She thwarted the dashing rogue then. But now Julian Chase has followed her halfway around the world. Julian has come to take what he believes is rightfully his. And he has vowed to have his tender, sensuous revenge on the enchanting, silver-blond angel who robbed him of his birthright ... and purloined his heart in a single, unparalleled moment.

Anna is having to come to terms with her life when she comes across Julian Chase while he is trying to steal something. After all the commotion she leaves with the very thing that Julian needs. As she is running from her brother-in-law back to the place that she considers home, with Julian soon to follow. The story is interesting as it is fast paced and keeps moving. It’s one of those books that you can pick up for a quick read. I liked it but there were a few times that I didn’t understand why something  was going on. It didn’t add anything to the story. But if you’re looking for something historical it’s a good read.

Publisher: Avon

ISBN: 038075889X

Pages: 400

Series:

Volume:

Glimmerglass by Jenna Black

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal; Faerie, Faeriewalker, Magic, Avalon

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Normal: It’s all she’s ever wanted to be, but it couldn’t be further from her grasp… Dana Hathaway doesn’t know it yet, but she’s in big trouble.  When her alcoholic mom shows up at her voice recital drunk, again, Dana decides she’s had enough and runs away to find her mysterious father in Avalon: the only place on Earth where the regular, everyday world and the captivating, magical world of Faerie intersect. But from the moment Dana sets foot in Avalon, everything goes wrong, for it turns out she isn't just an ordinary teenage girl—she's a Faeriewalker, a rare individual who can travel between both worlds, and the only person who can bring magic into the human world and technology into Faerie.  Soon, Dana finds herself tangled up in a cutthroat game of Fae politics. Someone's trying to kill her, and everyone seems to want something from her, from her newfound friends and family to Ethan, the hot Fae guy Dana figures she’ll never have a chance with… until she does.  Caught between two worlds, Dana isn’t sure where she’ll ever fit in and who can be trusted, not to mention if her world will ever be normal again…

This is the first book in the Faeriewalker series. Dana thought nothing could be worse than living with her mother who is an alcoholic. She runs away from home to go and find her father. But once there she is there, nothing seems to be going right. With an unwelcoming aunt, people trying to kill her and she doesn’t know who to trust. This is a very fast paced book but instead of feeling like your hair is on fire trying to keep up it written brilliantly. I have to say that as much as I liked the main characters it’s the supporting ones that truly make this story shin. This is a book that I absolutely love and can’t wait to read the next book in the series, Shadowspell.

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

ISBN: 0312575939

Pages: 304

Series: Faeriewalker

Volume: 1

Big Bad Wolf by Christine Warren

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Magic, Shapeshifters, Vampires, The Others, Witches

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Missy Roper’s fantasies have revolved around Graham Winters since the moment they met. But the imposing leader of the Silverback werewolf clan always seemed oblivious to Missy’s existence. At least he was, until Missy collides with him at a party and then abruptly runs away – arousing Graham’s interest … and wild desires. Big Bad Wolf. Lupin law decrees that every Alpha must have a mate, and all Graham’s instincts tell him that the sensual, beguiling Missy is his. Trouble is, Missy is human – every delectable inch of her. Convincing his clan that she’s his destined mate, and keeping her safe from his enemies, will be the biggest challenge Graham has ever faced. And now that he is determined to have her – as his lover and his mate – Missy’s world is changing in ways she never imagined…

This is the second book in Christine Warren’s The Others series. Even though it is the most recent in publication. This story follows the kindergarten teacher Missy Roper and Alpha of the Silverback werewolves, Graham Winters. Missy is almost a meek woman who doesn’t have the best self image, while Graham is your very typical Alpha character. But as this story goes on we see that Missy can hold her own against the other werewolves. She grows as a character from beginning to end. The perspective changes between Missy and Graham but it is done in such a way that you feel like you’re getting the whole story and not just one side of it. I really loved this book and can’t wait till Christine finishes her rewrites on the next book in the series, originally names Faer Fetched.

Publisher: St. Martin’s

ISBN: 031294795X

Pages: 320

Series: Novels of the Others

Volume: 2

Demon Princess: Reign or Shine by Michelle Rowen

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance; Urban Fantasy; Demons, Magic, Shadows, Demon Princess

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: For Nikki Donovan, being a teenager can be hell. Literally. As if trying to fit in at a new school and navigating the social scene isn’t enough stress for her, sixteen-year-old Nikki Donovan just found out that her long-lost father is, in fact, the demon king of the Shadowlands – the world that separates and protects us from the Underworld. When she is brought there by the mysterious – and surprisingly cute – messenger Michael, she learns that her father is dying, and that he wants her to assume the throne. To complicate matters, a war is brewing between Shadowlands and the Underworld, her half-demon qualities are manifesting, and her growing feelings for Michael are forbidden. Ruling a kingdom, navigating a secret crush, and still making it home by curfew – what’s a teenage demon princess to do?

This is the first book in the Demon Princess series. Nikki is just learning about her father and herself while being the new girl at school. But there is a plus side Michael. I found this book to be very entertaining. I thought that Nikki took all the information about her father and herself rather well. Michael was a great character to have he is smart and powerful, and technically a prince in his own right. I love how Nikki also throws him off with how she treats him. There are a few great plot twists in this story as well. You get to meet lots of different people. And I also like how Nikki’s mom stood up for herself. I recommend this book as something that you should read. I can't wait to read the next book in this series Demon Princess: Reign Check.

Publisher: Walker Books

ISBN: 080279534X

Pages: 288

Series: Demon Princess

Volume: 1

The Pillars of the World by Anne Bishop

Genre: Fantasy; Witches, Faerie, Magic, Tir Alainn Trilogy

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The Trees Whisper of Danger…The youngest in a long line of witches, Ari senses that things are changing – changing for the worse. For generations, her kin have tended the Old Places, keeping the land safe and fertile. But with the Summer Moon, the mood of her neighbors has soured. And Ari is no longer safe. The Fae have long ignored what occurs in the mortal world, passing through on their shadowy roads only long enough to amuse themselves. But the roads are slowly disappearing, leaving the Fae Clans isolated and alone. Where harmony between the spiritual and the natural has always reigned, a dissonant chord now rings in the ears of both Fae and mortal. And when murmurs of a witch-hunt hum through the town, some begin to wonder if the different omens are notes in the same tune.

Ari is a great character who is strong and one that learns fast of the Fae around her home. She is befriended by The Huntress. As well as the lover of the Lightbringer. Neall who has always been in love with Ari, just didn’t have the courage to tell her. The Fae are great but I love the dynamic between Neall and Ari. They just seemed to fit from the start. The whole thing with the witch-hunters was well written. I loved how this world just unfolded and look forward to reading the next book in the series, Shadows and Light.

Publisher: ROC Fantasy

ISBN: 0451458508

Pages: 432

Series: Tir Alainn Trilogy

Volume: 1

Rebel Angels by Libba Bray

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Historical Fantasy; Faire, Magic, Gemma Doyle

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Gemma Doyle is looking forward to a holiday from Spence Academy—spending time with her friends in the city, attending balls in fancy gowns with plunging necklines, and dallying with the handsome Lord Denby. Yet amid these distractions, her visions intensify—visions of three girls dressed in white, to whom something horrific has happened that only the realms can explain. The lure is strong, and soon Gemma, Felicity, and Ann are turning flowers into butterflies in the enchanted world that Gemma takes them to. To the girls' great joy, their beloved Pippa is there as well, eager to complete their circle of friendship. But all is not well in the realms—or out. Kartik is back, desperately insisting to Gemma that she must bind the magic, lest colossal disaster befall her. Gemma is willing to comply, for this would bring her face-to-face with her late mother's greatest friend, now Gemma's foe—Circe. Until Circe is destroyed, Gemma cannot live out her destiny. But finding Circe proves a most perilous task. . . .

This was a little different as they where not at school and getting to see the different parts of England. I didn’t like what happened with Ann. And felt very sorry for Felicity how society treated her and her mother. Gemma also seems a little full of herself and the power that she wields, believing that she can save her father from himself with magic. I found the story was still lacking but I did enjoy the intrigue with the peers of society. I will still read the final book in this series, The Sweet Far Things.

Publisher: Delacorte Press

ISBN: 0385733410

Pages: 592

Series: Gemma Doyle

Volume: 2

Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal; Vampires, Witches, Warlocks, Werewolves, Shifters, Magic, Faeries, Demons

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father--an elusive European warlock--only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters. By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect. As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.

This is the first book in the Hex Hall series. Sophie has moved around many times so while she is trying to make friends she does one little spell that turns out to go very wrong. Now she is being sent to Hex Hall. Where she learns more about others like her. But she doesn’t seem to be making very good friends. Sophie is a great character that you really connect with early on. The other characters are just as well written. I really loved this book and can’t wait to see where this series is going. I can't wait to read the next book in this series, Demonglass.

Publisher: Hyperion

ISBN: 1423121392

Pages: 352

Series: Hex Hall

Volume: 1

The Wild Wood by Charles de Lint

Genre: Urban Fantasy; Faerie

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: “You must remember…” Back in Print for the first time in ten years, this original novel stands among the finest of Charles de Lint’s early works. Eithnie is a young painter who is acclaimed by the art world until the critics start noticing that her work has lost the animating passion that had set her apart from the crowd. She returns to her cabin in Canada’s remote woods, hoping to find a place where she can seek solitude and focus on her art. At first, Eithnie’s muse remains elusive, but then beautiful and disturbing creatures start slipping into her sketches unbidden. The following days bring strange visitors bearing cryptic messages indicating that Eithnie may be bound by a promise made in a forgotten, magical childhood. The world of Faerie is clearly reaching out to her for help, and her ability to figure out what they need may mark the difference between their survival…and their doom.

This is one of those stories that is extremely visual. You can’t help but feel like you are a part of the story. The imagery is so strong that after reading this I dreamed of magical forests for two weeks strait. Charles has a way of making you feel that when you read one of his stories its not just a story but an experience that you are going through. And you come out the other end changed in some fashion. The character Eithnie is at first scared of this dark strange creatures that she keeps on seeing and soon interacting with. But she realizes that she must help them to survive. This was a story that I can’t count how many times I have read it, but it is one of my favorite ones. I think that everyone should at least read it once.

Publisher: Thom Doherty Associates

ISBN: 0765302586

Pages: 208

Series:

Volume:

Three Days to Dead by Kelly Meding

Genre: Urban Fantasy; Magical, Magical Creatures, Vampires, Shape-shifters, Trolls, Dreg City
Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: She's young, deadly, and hunted—with only three days to solve her own murder… When Evangeline Stone wakes up naked and bruised on a cold slab at the morgue – in a stranger’s body, with no memory of who she is and how she got there – her troubles are only just beginning.  Before that night, she and the other two members of her Triad were star bounty hunters -- mercilessly cleansing the city of the murderous creatures living in the shadows, from vampires to shape-shifters to trolls. Then something terrible happened that not only cost all three of them their lives, but also convinced the city’s other Hunters that Evy was a traitor . . . and she can’t even remember what it was. Now she’s a fugitive, piecing together her memory, trying to deal some serious justice – and discovering that she has only three days to solve her own murder before the reincarnation spell wears off. Because in three days, Evy will die again – but this time, there’s no second chance…

This is the first book in the Dreg City series. Evy wakes up in the morgue. Now she has to figure out how she got there and why she can’t remember anything. And she soon learns that those she has worked for before believe that she is a traitor. Now she only has to prove that she isn’t. Oh and she only has three days to do it. Evy is a great character. Smart, fast, and can kick but when she wants. There are so many twists and turns throughout the story. Once I started reading this one I couldn’t put it down. I really enjoyed it and I can’t wait to read the next one in the series, As Lie the Dead.

Publisher: Dell
ISBN: 0553592866
Pages: 416
Series: Dreg City
Volume: 1

Rhapsody by Elizabeth Haydon

Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Dragons, Immortals, Time Travel

Sub Genre: Science Fiction

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Rhapsody is a woman, a Singer of some talent, who is swept up into events of world-shattering import. On the run from an old romantic interest who won’t take no for an answer, Rhapsody literally bumps into a couple of shady characters: half-breeds who come to her rescue in the nick of time. Only the rescue turns into an abduction, and Rhapsody soon finds herself dragged along on an epic voyage, one that spans centuries and ranges across a wonder-filled fantasy world – a world so real you can hear the sweet music of Rhapsody’s audade and smell the smoldering forges deep within the Cauldron.

This is the first story in an ongoing epic fantasy series. Rhapsody is someone who can use her words to mean something. After an unexpected encounter with Achmed and Grunthor she is now run for their lives, not entirely of her own free will. But it is the beginning of a great adventure through the world. The way this book takes you in is unlike any that I have ever encountered. There are many more characters in this brilliantly written epic story. As you follow their journey you can’t help but to fall in love with them. I love this book and look forward to where the story will go from here. I can't wait to read the next book, Prophecy.

Publisher: TOR

ISBN: 0812570812

Pages: 672

Series: Symphony of Ages

Volume: 1

Urban Shaman by C.E. Murphy

Genre: Urban Fantasy; Magic, Fae, Myth

Sub Genre: Mystery

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Joanne Walker has three days to learn to use her shamanic powers and save the world from the unleashed Wild Hunt. No worries. No pressure. Never mind the lack of sleep, the perplexing new talent for healing herself from fatal wounds, or the cryptic, talking coyote who appears in her dreams. And if all that's not bad enough, in the three years Joanne's been a cop, she's never seen a dead body—but she's just come across her second in three days. It's been a bitch of a week. And it isn't over yet.

Joanne has shamanic powers which is news to her, but she has to learn how to use them fast. The good part is that she is a cop as well as being good at figuring things out. The story is a bit of a mystery as well, which I found very refreshing. I thought that the interaction between Joanne and Coyote was brilliantly written. I like the book and I look  forward to reading the next book in this series, Thunderbird Falls.

Publisher: Luna

ISBN: 0373802986

Pages: 416

Series: Walker Papers

Volume: 1

Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Historical Fiction; Paranormal Romance; France, 15th Century, Gods, People with Abilities, Magic

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf? Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others. Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart.

Ismae is brought to the convent of St. Mortain and learns that he is actually her father. She agrees whole heartedly to join the convent and server. When she is sent on her mission to assist the high court of Brittany she learns that there are two sides to things. She feels unprepared. Under the care of Gavriel Duval, she doesn't know if she can trust him or kill him. This is a great book of intrigue. Ismae is a very dynamic character who is devout to her convent. Gavriel is one of those characters that you can't help but fall for. I loved reading this book as it kept you on your toes. I can't wait to read the next book in the series, Dark Trumph.

Publisher: Graphia

ISBN: 978-0544022492

Pages: 576

Series: His Fair Assassin

Volume: 1

Queen of the Darkness by Anne Bishop

Genre: Fantasy; Witches, Magic, Demons, Winged People, Warlords

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The Dark Court has been formed. Jaenelle Angelline has made her Offering to the Darkness, and reigns as Queen of Ebon Askavi. No longer will the corrupt Blood slaughter her people and defile her lands. But where one door has been closed, a windo may be opened…or broken through. Even Witch cannot protect the Shadow Realm alone. Somewhere, long lost in the madness of the Twisted Kingdom, is Daemon, her promised Consort. His unyielding love for Jaenelle will complete her court and secure her power. Yet, even together, their strength may not be enough to stave off their enemies. In the end, only a terrible sacrifice can save those Jaenelle loves…

This is the third book in the Black Jewels series. And it is so far my favorite. The way Daemon was so unsure of himself and where he stood with Jaenelle was brilliantly played out. The intrigue between the characters and what side everyone was on, made you sit on the edge of your seat. The climax of this story had me at tears thinking that not only was Daemon going to lose Jaenelle but also his mind again. I loved it all.

Publisher: ROC Fantasy

ISBN: 0451461711

Pages: 416

Series: The Black Jewels

Volume: 3

Kushiel’s Chosen by Jacqueline Carey

Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Angels

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Mighty Kushiel, of rod and weal Late of the brazen portals With blood-tipp'd dart a wound unhealed Pricks the eyen of chosen mortals. The land of Terre d'Ange is a place of unsurpassed beauty and grace. The inhabiting race rose from the seed of angels and men, and they live by one simple rule: Love as thou wilt. Phèdre nó Delaunay was sold into indentured servitude as a child. Her bond was purchased by a nobleman, the first to recognize that she is one pricked by Kushiel's Dart, chosen to forever experience pain and pleasure as one. He trained Phèdre in the courtly arts and the talents of the bedchamber--and, above all, the ability to observe, remember, and analyze. When she stumbled upon a plot that threatened the very foundations of her homeland, she gave up almost everything she held dear to save it. She survived, and lived to have others tell her story, and if they embellished the tale with fabric of mythical splendor, they weren't far off the mark. The hands of the gods weigh heavily upon Phèdre's brow, and they are not finished with her. While the young queen who sits upon the throne is well loved by the people, there are those who believe another should wear the crown... and those who escaped the wrath of the mighty are not yet done with their schemes for power and revenge.

This is the second book in the series. And sometimes when you read an ongoing series the second book is almost a throw-away. This is so not one of those times. This delves into deeper intrigue. Phèdre again must step up to help her Queen and country. Her old enemies have new plans and hope to hurt her with them as well. This just keeps getting better where you can’t wait to see where this is going to go next. High adventure that just won’t stop. Jacqueline is one of those writers that you can’t wait to read her next book, Kushiel’s Avatar.

Publisher: TOR

ISBN: 0765345048

Pages: 704

Series: Phèdre's Trilogy

Volume: 2