Succubi Like It Hot by Jill Myles

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Succubi, Vampires, Angels, Serim, The Succubus Diaries, Warlocks, Voodoo, Demons, Incubi

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Nobody said sucking was easy. With a hot new figure, her dream job as an archaeologist, and two gorgeous boyfriends to scratch her seductive Itch -- an angel and a vampire -- Jackie Brighton is totally getting the hang of life as a succubus. Then she accidentally knocks the pizza guy unconscious with her touch. Great -- she's cursed. After striking a deal to get the curse lifted by a crafty demon, Jackie and her best friend Remy take a road trip to deliver a cryptic message to the nation's oldest succubus. Unfortunately, neither of her jealous lovers is talking to Jackie right now, and due to the curse, she's desperate to get her Itch scratched very soon. Their journey gets weirder with every mile -- demonic possession, a charming stalker, a cryptic warning -- and when they get to New Orleans, Jackie discovers a dangerous catch to her supernatural bargain. Someone wants her dead -- again. Can a brainy vixen in a miniskirt outsmart the forces of evil?

This is the second book in the Succubus Diaries. Jackie is getting things together with her work but her personal life isn’t doing so well. But when her powers start doing some weird thing she has to figure things out. And it seems that she has to do it on her own as the men in her life have kind of having issues. So she and Remy go on a road trip to find a cure. This book takes place about a month after the first one. The characters are still trying their best in the situation that they find themselves. The story is fun and you are trying to figure out who is causing the most trouble. I really like this book and can’t wait to read the next book in the series, My Fair Succubi.

Publisher: Pocket Star Books

ISBN: 141657283X

Pages: 335

Series: Succubus Diaries

Volume: 2

City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy; Angels, Demons, Vampires, Werewolves, Hunters

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: To save her mother's life, Clary must travel to the City of Glass, the ancestral home of the Shadowhunters -- never mind that enter-ing the city without permission is against the Law, and breaking the Law could mean death. To make things worse, she learns that Jace does not want her there, and Simon has been thrown in prison by the Shadowhunters, who are deeply suspicious of a vampire who can withstand sunlight.As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadow-hunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadow-hunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her newfound powers to help save the Glass City -- whatever the cost? Love is a mortal sin and the secrets of the past prove deadly as Clary and Jace face down Valentine in the final installment of the New York Times bestselling trilogy The Mortal Instruments.

This is the third book in the Mortal Instruments series. The way the perspective change from Clary to Jace and back was not confusing, as some stories can be. The imagery of the glass city is beautiful. The world of the Downworlders and Shadowhunters and how they must learn to live together to save everyone. I absolutely loved this. I don't know where they are going to go from here but I can't wait to read the next book in the series, City of Fallen Angels.

Publisher: McElderry

ISBN: 1416972250

Pages: 576

Series: Mortal Instruments

Volume: 3

Blood Bound by Patricia Briggs

Genre: Urban Fantasy; Werewolves, Walkers, Shapeshifters, Vampires, Witches, Magic, Fae, Mercy Thompson

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Under the rule of science, there are no witch burnings allowed, no water trials or public lynchings. In return, the average law-abiding, solid citizen has little to worry about from the things that go bump in the night. Sometimes I wish I was an average citizen… Mechanic Mercy Thompson has friends in low places – and in dark ones. And now she owes one of them a favor. Since she can shapeshift at will, she agrees to act as some extra muscle when her vampire friend Stefan goes to deliver a message to another of his kind. But this new vampire is hardly ordinary – and neither is the demon inside of him…

This is the second book in the Mercedes Thompson series. In this story Mercy shows us more of the vampires of this world. While the werewolf Alpha and Sam are still trying to get Mercy’s attention. Everything moves so well in this story. Just when you think that things are going to slow down the story goes into turbo. It’s like everything I love about adventure films all rolled into a book. So much to see that you can’t put the book down till you finish the last page. I can't wait to read the next book in this series, Iron Kissed.

Publisher: Ace Books

ISBN: 0441020070

Pages: 352

Series: Mercedes Thompson

Volume: 2

Lament: The Faerie Queen’s Deception by Maggie Stiefvater

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy; Faerie, Magic, Fairy, Books of Faerie

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Don’t you know what happens to cloverhends who cannot control the fey? Sixteen-year-old Deidre Monaghan is a prodigiously gifted musician. She’s about to find out she’s also a cloverhand – one who can see faeries. Unexpectedly, Deirdre finds herself infatuated with a mysterious boy named Luke who enters her ordinary life, seemingly out of thin air. But his interest in her might be something darker than summer romance. When a sinister faerie named Aodhan shows up with deadly orders from the Faerie Queen, it forces Dee right into the midst of Faerie. Caught in the crossfire with Deirdre is James, her wisecracking but loyal best friend. Deirdre had been wishing for summer weren’t so dull, but taking on a centuries-old Faerie Queen isn’t exactly what she had in mind.

This is the first book in the series Books of Faerie. It is the kind of Faerie that was told long ago. It’s darker than the ones that you normally grew up with. Deirdre is a great harp musician who turns out to also be a cloverhand. Luke is the mysterious male that Deirdre can’t stop thinking about. As time goes own strange things keep happening. This story is amazing. There are so many twists and turns that takes your breath away. It’s dark and beautiful and I love the story. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series, Ballad.

Publisher: Flux

ISBN: 0738713708

Pages: 325

Series: Books of Faerie

Volume: 1

On the Prowl by Karen MacInerney

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Werewolves, Witchs, Demons, Tales of an Urban Werewolf

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Talk about a bad-hair day! Sophie Garou is a master at taming her inner beast, which comes in handy since she’s a werewolf. With a big promotion at work and a supersexy boyfriend, Heath (whom she recently spotted leaving a jewelry store with a beguiling ring box), she’s one happy girl. But when Heath starts spending long nights at the office with his new associate – a dead-ringer for Career Day Barbie – Sophie smells trouble. And when her professional relationship with her big new client – who also happens to be Texas’s brilliantly blue-eyed most eligible bachelor – begins to sizzle, she wonders if her animal instincts are leading her in the wrong direction. Just when it seems that things can’t get any more complicated, they do. The Houston werewolf pack has sniffed Sophie out, and their message is chillingly clear: you’re either with us or against us. And unless she can prove that she’s with them, the next full moon may just be her last.

Sophie’s story continues, and now Houston knows about her. They send her on a quest to find someone or at least information on what is going on with another pack. While a group of made females beg Sophie to be their Alpha. I felt for Sophie as her relationship with her boyfriend seemed to just go downhill. But she was surrounded by Tom and Mark. Mark was a little over the top but at the same time very mysterious. I didn’t know what to make of him until closer to the end. He’s something not sure what but something for sure. I still wish that she was with Tom but oh well. I thought the whole pack fighting was well write. With bringing in old sacrifices to gain power. And then you had Lindsey find out that her best friend is a werewolf. Something I didn’t expect at all. I really loved this, again just couldn’t put it down. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series, Leader of the Pack.

Publisher: Ballantine Books

ISBN: 0345496264

Pages: 384

Series: Tales of an Urban Werewolf

Volume: 2

The Devil’s Due by Jenna Black

Genre: Urban Fantasy; Demons, Magic, Morgan Kingsley, Exorcists

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Possession was never this much fun… Trust me or die…That’s the choice Morgan Kingsley, exorcist, is given by the gorgeous rogue demon who’s gotten inside her. The truth is, Morgan has dozens of reasons not to trust anyone, from the violence that torched her house and killed her father to a love life that’s left her questioning her relationship with her erstwhile boyfriend, Brian. But Lugh, a king among demons, won’t take no for an answer. He’s prying into her body, her mind, even her sex life. And he’s just pulled Morgan into a power struggle that could have devastating consequences for both the human and demon worlds. But Morgan still has a job to do: investigating the highly bizarre possession of the son of a wealthy Philadelphia couple. That hunt leads Morgan into a realm of sexual depravity, then a terrifying kidnapping.… Now a woman who makes her living prying demons from their hosts finds her day job colliding with the night: a darkness that is attracting demons of the damnedest sort, including the one who’s about to demand his ultimate due.…

This is the third book in the Morgan Kingsley series. Things don’t seem to be going well for Morgan. She isn’t sure who to trust or how to keep those that she cares about safe. And when the line between her day job and night one blur things really hit the fan. This book there seems to be a lot more going on. Every time you think you have a handle on what will happen next it gets turned on its head, but it’s in the best way. I felt like I was on the edge of my seat the whole time reading this book. Morgan is one of the best characters even with everything she is going through. I really enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to read the next one in the series, Speak of the Devil.

Publisher: Dell

ISBN: 0440244927

Pages: 336

Series: Morgan Kingsley

Volume: 3

The Woman Who Rides Like a Man by Tamora Pierce

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Tortall, Song of the Lioness

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: “Let her prove herself worthy as a man.” Newly knighted, Alanna of Trebond seeks adventure in the vast desert of Tortall. Captured by fierce desert dwellers, she is forced to prove herself in a duel to the death – either she will be killed or she will be inducted into the tribe. Although she triumphs, dire challenges lie ahead. As her mythic fate would have it, Alanna soon becomes the tribe’s first female shaman – despite the desert dwellers’ gave fear of the foreign woman warrior. Alanna must fight to change the ancient tribal customs of the desert tribes – for their sake and for the sake of all Tortall.

This is the third book in the Sond of the Lioness series. Alanna gains not only a tribe but a new father that loves her in Sir Myles. Which was one of the characters that I loved from the first time you meet him. This was great as Alanna finally totally embraced her magic and learns along with the young youths that are also gifted. She must train them until they can take over and protect their tribe. She does have a falling out with Prince Jonathan that at first I was very unhappy about. But I realize that I don’t think Alanna would ever be happy as the Queen of Tortall. I did enjoy the growing relationship between Alanna and George. Beautifully written story that I couldn’t put down. I can't wait to read the next book in this series, Lioness Rampant.

Publisher: Simon Pulse

ISBN: 0689878583

Pages: 304

Series: Song of the Lioness

Volume: 3

The Devouring by Simon Holt

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy; Vours, Nightmares, Boogyman

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The Vours: Evil, demonic beings that inhabit human bodies on Sorry Night, the darkest hours of the winter solstice. When dark creeps in and eats the light, Bury your fears on Sorry Night. For in the winter’s blackest hours Comes the feasting of the Vours. No one can see it, the life they stole, Your body’s her but not your soul.

This story is one that gave me Goosebumps. Reg is a lover of horror stories and finds a journal in the used bookstore that she works in. She reads to her little brother from it as well. Not paying mind to what she is reading thinking it is just a story, she learns first hand that some things are real weather you believe or not. With her friend, Aaron’s help she is able to save her brother. I found that it was a compelling story, one that makes you think twice about the bogeyman. Wondering where the series will go from here in, Soulstice.

Publisher: Little, Brown

ISBN: 031602712X

Pages: 256

Series: Devouring

Volume: 1

Rogue by Rachel Vincent

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Werecats

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Okay, so cats don't always land on their feet. I know that better than most. Since rejoining the Pride, I've made big decisions and even bigger mistakes: the kind paid for with innocent lives. As the first and only female enforcer, I have plenty to prove to my father, the Pride, and myself. And with murdered toms turning up in our territory, I'm working harder than ever, though I always find the energy for a little after-hours recreation with Marc, my partner both on and off duty. But not all my mistakes are behind me. We're beginning to suspect that the dead are connected with a rash of missing human women and that they can all be laid at my feet--two or four, take your pick. And one horrible indiscretion may yet cost me more than I can bear...

This is the second book in the Werecats series. Faythe is at home trying to do what her family wants of her. But then bodies start to pile up and they are all connected. Also Marc seems to want a promise of something more in the future. While everything is going on it all seems too much. The way the characters discover what is going on makes for very dynamic story telling. I found it a great read and couldn’t get enough of it. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series, Pride.

Publisher: Mira

ISBN: 0778329143

Pages: 400

Series: Werecats

Volume: 2

The Candidates by Inara Scott

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance; People with Abilities, Delcroix Academy

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Dancia Lewis is far from popular. And that's not just because of her average grades or her less-than-glamorous wardrobe. In fact, Dancia's mediocrity is a welcome cover for her secret: whenever she sees a person threatening someone she cares about, things just...happen. Cars skid. Structures collapse. Usually someone gets hurt.  So Dancia does everything possible to avoid getting close to anyone, belieiving this way she can supress her powers and keep them hidden. But when recruiters from the prestigious Delcroix Academy show up in her living room to offer her a full scholarship, Dancia's days of living under the radar may be over. Only, Delcroix is a school for diplomats' kids and child geniuses--not B students with uncontrollable telekinetic tendencies.  So why are they treating Dancia like she's special? Even the hottest guy on campus seems to be going out of his way to make Dancia feel welcome. And then there's her mysterious new friend Jack, who can't stay out of trouble. He suspects something dangerous is going on at the Academy and wants Dancia to help him figure out what.  But Dancia isn't convinced. She hopes that maybe the recruiters know more about her "gift" than they're letting on. Maybe they can help her understand how to use it...But not even Dancia could have imagined what awaits her behind the gates of Delcroix Academy.

This is the first book in the Delcroix Academy series. Dancia has been trying to just get by and not be noticed. She knows that there is something very different about her and she doesn’t want others to know about it at all. But after something that happened at the hospital she has gotten the attention of the Delcroix Academy. Now things are changing and fast. Dancia isn’t quite sure what to make of everything that is going on. But she has friends and she isn’t sure what to make of that. Dancia is a great character who you can’t help but feel for. And the supporting characters are brilliant. Jake is your bad boy that you can’t help but love. There is so much going on that you won’t want to put this book down once you start reading it. I truly love this book and can’t wait to read the next one in the series, The Marked.

Publisher: Hyperion Book

ISBN: 1423116364

Pages: 304

Series: Delcroix Academy

Volume: 1

Megan's Mark by Lora Leigh

Genre: Paranormal Romance; People with Special Abilities

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Cursed with the extraordinary power to feel other peoples' emotions, Megan Fields has tucked herself away in a remote corner of New Mexico, working as a small-town sheriff's deputy. She finds solace in the silence and heat of the desert. But when Breeds begin dying on her watch, Megan realizes that the secrets from her past can't stay buried forever. Someone is out for blood—her blood. An arrogant Feline Breed, Braden Arness broods with feral intensity. His mission to solve the mysterious murders brings him to Megan, a woman who accosts his senses like no other. Only with him can she let down her guard—and surrender to the insatiable hunger that wracks her body. But as they team up to hunt the elusive killers, Braden and Megan find themselves becoming the prey...

This is the first book in the Breed’s Series. Megan lives in the desert so she doesn’t have to deal with people all the time. When she comes across two dead breeds she is then saddled with Braden. Both feel an attraction to the other but Megan is set against it. That is until one very hot kiss from Braden. And on top of that they have to figure out why these two Breed’s where coming to the desert. This is a very captivating story. It is one that had me on the edge of my seat to see what was going to happen next. I really enjoyed this read. I look forward to reading the next in the series, Harmony’s Way.

Publisher: Berkley

ISBN: 0425209644

Pages: 304

Series: Breeds

Volume: 1

Walk of the Spirits by Richie Tankersley Cusick

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance; Ghosts

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: No rest for the weary. When Miranda Barnes first sees sleepy St. Yvett, Louisiana, with its moss-draped trees and aboveground cemeteries, she realizes that life as she knew it is officially over. Almost immediately, there seems to be something cloying at her. Even at school and in the group project she’s been thrown into, she can’t escape it. There are shadows when no one is there to make them, the haunting smell of roses, and a distant pleading voice that wakes her from sleep. The other members in Miranda’s group, especially handsome Etienne, can see that Miranda is in distress. She is beginning to understand that, like her grandfather, she has a special gift of communicating with spirits who still walk the town of St. Yvette. But this “gift” feels more like a curse, and Miranda has no one to confide in. Etienne is willing, but is he really as trustworthy as he is sultry? Now, no matter where Miranda turns, she feels bound by the whispered pleas of the spirits around her…unless she can somehow find a way to bring them peace.

A ghost story that is intriguing and full of mystery. Miranda is the new girl in town that doesn’t know anything about her own family history. When she is finally forced into being social with some of her classmates she begins to hear things about her grandfather. Her life seems to change overnight, with her meeting her grandfather and hearing voices that aren’t there. The whole thing is something that she doesn’t k now how to explain. When Etienne offers to help she begins to confide in him, only to feel betrayed by him when he tells her friends. This is a very well written story that I could read over and over again. I love how all the characters interact with one another. They all help to mold the story to its climax. I hope that there is a second book that has them all working together again. I really loved reading this book and can't wait to read the next book in this series, Shadow Mirror.

Publisher: Speak

ISBN: 0142410500

Pages: 336

Series: Walk

Volume: 1

Dragon Actually by G. A. Aiken

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Dragons, Magic, Witches

Sub Genre: Romantic Fantasy

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: It’s not always easy being a female warrior with a nickname like Annwyl the Bloody. Men tend to either cower in fear – a lot – or else salute. It’s true that Annwyl has a knack for decapitating legions of her ruthless brother’s soldiers without pausing for breath. But just once it would be nice to be able to really talk to a man, the way she can talk to Fearghus the Destroyer. Too bad that Fearghus is a dragon, of the large, scaly, and deadly type. With him, Annwyl feels safe – a far cry from the feelings aroused by the hard-bodied, arrogant knight Fearghus has arranged to help train her for battle. With her days spent fighting a man who fills her with fierce, heady desire, and her nights spent in the company of a magical creature who could smite a village just by exhaling, Annwyl is sure life couldn’t get any stranger. She’s wrong… [And just wait until you meet the rest of the family…]

This is the first book in the Dragon Kin series. It is the story starts with Annwyl fighting for her life at the mouth of Fearghus’ cave. He takes her in and helps to heal her from her wounds. Over the course of many conversations and training their relationship grows. The dynamic between these two is one that catches you from the start. They are both stubborn and strong willed. It is such a great mix. I really enjoyed this story. What was even better was at the end there was a short story about Fearghus’ parents and their claiming. Which only added more depth to the magical world that G. A. Aiken has created. I loved both stories and can’t wait to read the second book in this series About a Dragon.

Publisher: Zebra Books

ISBN: 1420103733

Pages: 352

Series: Dragon Kin

Volume: 1

Lover Avenged by J. R. Ward

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampires, Soulless Humans

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Caldwell, New York, has long been the battle ground for the vampires and their enemies, the Lessening Society. It’s also where Rehvenge has stacked out his turf as a drug lord and owner of a notorious nightclub that caters to the rich and heavily armed. His shadowy reputation is exactly why he’s approached to kill Wrath, the Blind King and leader of the Brotherhood. Rehvenge has always kept his distance from the Brotherhood, even though his sister is married to a member. Because he’s a symphath, his identity is a deadly secret – the revelation of which could result in his banishment to a colony for sociopaths. As plots within and outside the Brotherhood take their toll on Rehvenge, he turns to the only source of light in his darkening world – Ethlena, a vampire untouched by the corruption that has its hold on him – and the only thing standing between him and eternal destruction.

This is the seventh book in the series of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. This is Rehvenge and Ethlena story. You get to see more behind the scenes with what Rehvenge does. And I’m not just talking about the drug dealing or his council work. While you have Ethlena who is a nurse and someone that everyone truly likes. But that’s not all that the story is about. We get to see more to Wrath and Beth. As well as John and his boys. I  love that this story just builds from one book to another making a more compelling story. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series, Lover Mine.

Publisher: Signet Eclipse

ISBN: 1616798807

Pages: 544

Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood

Volume: 7

Valiant by Holly Black

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy; Faeries, A Modern Faerie Tale

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: When seventeen-year-old Valerie runs away to New York City, she's trying to escape a life that has utterly betrayed her. Sporting a new identity, she takes up with a gang of squatters who live in the city's labyrinthine subway system. But there's something eerily beguiling about Val's new friends. And when one talks Val into tracking down the lair of a mysterious creature with whom they are all involved, Val finds herself torn between her newfound affection for an honorable monster and her fear of what her new friends are becoming.

This is the first book in the Modern Faerie Tale series. I’ve always loved books on Faeries. So when I found that Holly Black wrote her own Modern Faerie tale I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. She didn’t disappoint at all. Valerie and her friends are trying to forget their pasts. Val is one of those great characters that you feel like you're going through everything with her. It has amazing visual descriptions. I loved this story and can't wait to read the next book, Tithe.

Publisher: Simon Pulse

ISBN: 0689868235

Pages: 314

Series: A Modern Faerie Tale

Volume: 1

Dark Prince by Christine Feehan

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampires, People with Abilities, Dark Series

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: He came to her in the night, a predator -- strength and power chiseled his features. The seduction was deep and elemental; he affected her soul. His need. His darkness. His terrible haunting loneliness. Her senses aroused, she craved the dangerous force of his body. Burned for him. And he had only touched her with his mind. She came to him at dawn, his bleakest hour. As the beast raged inside him, threatening to consume him, he vented his centuries-old despair in an anguished cry that filled the waning night. And she answered, a ray of light, piercing his darkness. A beautiful angel. Her compassion, courage, and innocence awakened in him an exquisite longing and tenderness. He knew he must possess her, for only she could tame his savage side and lift the dark shadow from his soul. Apart they were desolate, bereft. Intertwined physically and spiritually, they could heal one another and experience an eternity of nights filled with love.

This is the first book in the Dark Series. Mikhail is falling into darkness. He is becoming more alone every day. Then when he finally starts to think of ending it he hears someone telling him that isn’t the way. Raven has come to heal and she finds another wounded person in need of her. The story is one that moves fast and you will be on the edge right along with it. Raven is a modern American woman with her own view. While Mikhail is a bit more old fashioned. It doesn’t help that he also is the leader of his people. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading the next one in the series, Dark Desire.

Publisher: Leisure Books

ISBN: 0843955287

Pages: 447

Series: Dark

Volume: 1

Rampant by Diana Peterfreund

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy; Magic, Unicorns, People with Abilities, Killer Unicorns

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Forget everything you ever knew about unicorns… Real unicorns are venomous, man-eating monsters with huge fangs and razor-sharp horns. Fortunately, they’ve been extinct for a hundred and fifty years. Or not. Astrid had always scoffed at her eccentric mother’s stories about killer unicorns. But when one of the monsters attacks her boyfriend – thereby ruining any chance of him taking her to the prom – Astrid finds herself headed to Rome to train as a unicorn hunter at the ancient cloisters the hunters have used for centuries. However, at the cloisters all is not what it seems. Outside, the unicorns wait to attack. And within, Astrid faces other, unexpected threats: from the crumbling, bone-covered walls that vibrate with a terrible power to the hidden agendas of her fellow hunters to – perhaps most dangerously of all her growing attraction to a handsome art student… an attraction that could jeopardize everything.

Ok how can you go wrong with a new take on unicorns. Especially when it turns them into “venomous, man-eating monsters with huge fangs and a razor-sharp horn!!!!” When I first came across this I thought of the killer rabbits in Monty Python’s Holy Grail. But I’m getting off topic, this story is taking place in current times. We learn a lot about the history or unicorn hunters and their abilities. Astrid never wanted to be a hunter she only wanted to help people. To one day even become a doctor. But her mother has other plans for her. After going to Rome she learns a lot about what she is capable of, as well as her own family history. The other girls are very different in why they are hunting. As time goes on they all become stronger. The imagery that is used wraps you up in how Astrid feels, as you follow her through her decisions. She is a great role model for girls. As she is strong willed and has as true sense of honor. You understand the why behind all her decisions. I love her relationship with her cousin, Phil. They make a great team. I really enjoyed it and hope that there will be another story where we see what happens to the characters later on.

Publisher: Harper Teen

ISBN: 0061490040

Pages: 432

Series: Killer Unicorns

Volume: 1

The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Paralell Reality, His Dark Materials

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Here lives an orphaned ward named Lyra Belacqua, whose carefree life among the scholars at Oxford's Jordan College is shattered by the arrival of two powerful visitors. First, her fearsome uncle, Lord Asriel, appears with evidence of mystery and danger in the far North, including photographs of a mysterious celestial phenomenon called Dust and the dim outline of a city suspended in the Aurora Borealis that he suspects is part of an alternate universe. He leaves Lyra in the care of Mrs. Coulter, an enigmatic scholar and explorer who offers to give Lyra the attention her uncle has long refused her. In this multilayered narrative, however, nothing is as it seems. Lyra sets out for the top of the world in search of her kidnapped playmate, Roger, bearing a rare truth-telling instrument, the compass of the title. All around her children are disappearing—victims of so-called "Gobblers"—and being used as subjects in terrible experiments that separate humans from their daemons, creatures that reflect each person's inner being. And somehow, both Lord Asriel and Mrs. Coulter are involved.

This is the first book in His Dark Materials series. Lyra is a very smart mouthed character that does what she wants when she wants to. I love characters like her. This story is set in an alternative universe. I love the talking animal and not just the souls, but the ice bears as well. They did make this book into a movie. Only it wasn’t nearly as good as this is. There were a lot of scenes that were left out. I love this book as it is a great adventure. As Lyra is going along she is learning more about herself and who she really is. This was a great twist for the story to take. I can't wait to read the next book in the series, The Subtle Knife.

Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf

ISBN: 0375838309

Pages: 432

Series: His Dark Materials

Volume: 1

Stargazer by Claudia Gray

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampires, Ghosts, Wraiths, Vampire Hunters

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The vampire in me was closer to the surface…Evernight Academy: an exclusive boarding school for the most beautiful, dangerous students of all – vampires, Bianca, born to two vampires, has always been told her destiny is to become one of them. But Bianca fell in love with Lucas – a vampire hunter sworn to destroy her kind. They were torn apart when his true identity was revealed, forcing him to flee the school. Although they may be separated, Bianca and Lucas will not give each other up. She will risk anything for the chance to see him again, even if it means coming face-to-face with the vampire hunters of Black Cross – or deceiving the powerful vampires of Evernight. Bianca’s secrets will force her to live a life of lies. Yet Bianca isn’t the only one keeping secrets. When Evernight is attacked by an evil force that seems to target her, she discovers the truth she thought she knew is only the beginning…

This is the second book in the Evernight series. As another year starts at Evernight there is more mystery as again there are things the characters are hiding from one another. Bianca is still seeing Lucas although infrequently. While everyone else believes that she and Balthazar are a couple. Which I found to be a little weird as Balthazar seemed to be in love with Bianca, but that whole side of the story was a little weird. Claudia again through in a little spin with adding the wraiths. I thought that this was a great twist on the vampire legend. I couldn’t put this down from the moment I started reading it. I love new and innovative takes on stories. I can't wait to read the next book in this series, Hourglass.

Publisher: Harper Teen

ISBN: 0061284467

Pages: 352

Series: Evernight

Volume: 2

The Taste of Night: The Second Sign of the Zodiac by Vicki Pettersson

Genre: Urban Fantasy, Super Heroes, Sign of the Zodiac

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Equal parts Light and Shadow, Joanna Archer must fulfill a destiny she never wanted. Once a photographer and heiress to a casino fortune, she is now dedicated to the cause of good . . . but susceptible to the seductions of evil. A deadly virus is descending on Las Vegas-a terrifying plague unleashed by the powerful overlord of Zodiac's dark side: Joanna's father. Chaos and panic grip Sin City as agents of Light fall prey to the terrifying epidemic. Death reigns supreme-and Joanna stands at dead center of an epic and terrible war long foretold, the last hope of a damned world. But first she must somehow conquer the malevolence that grows all around her . . . and within.

This is the second book of the Sign of the Zodiac series. Joanna’s story continues to bring up old wounds. Even though she is becoming more comfortable in her role both in her new life and with her troop, she still has much to learn. Again Vicki brings a new look to Sin City. I love how dark that it can seem. And the scenes at the Comic shop remind me of my high school days when I used to hang out at my local comic shop. I loved reading this book as I could really put myself into the story. I am really looking forward to reading the next book in this series, The Touch of Twilight.

Publisher: EOS

ISBN: 0060898925

Pages: 448

Series: Sign of the Zodiac

Volume: 2

Bad Blood by Mari Mancusi

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampires, Werewolves, Vampire Slayers, Sidhe, Fairy, Blood Coven Vampire

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Sunny McDonald is in the ultimate forbidden relationship. Her boyfriend Magnus is a vampire, and the leader of the Blood Coven. Their differences have never been an issue, until now… When the Blood Coven decides that Magnus needs a mate to be his co-ruler, Sunny’s humanity puts her out of the running. The Coven’s chosen candidate is Jane Johnson, a magna cum laude graduate of Oxford University who just happens to look like a vampiric supermodel. Sunny is suspicious of a Rhodes Scholar who can’t answer the most basic poly-sci questions, but Magnus brushes it off as petty jealousy. Still, when the Blood Coven goes to Las Vegas for a vampire convention—where Magnus and Jane’s bonding ceremony will be the main event—Sunny and her sister Rayne secretly tag along. And Sunny’s not going home before she learns the truth about Jane. Because not everything stays in Vegas—especially bad blood…

This is the fourth book in Blood Coven Vampire series. Sunny feels that Magnus has betrayed her. But she still goes to help him because her gut tells her that something is wrong. I truly don’t want to say too much about as this series as I love this series. This is a great story that adds more to the series. I can’t get enough of these books and can’t wait to see where the series is going to go from here.

Publisher: Berkley Books

ISBN: 0425232646

Pages: 240

Series: Blood Coven Vampire

Volume: 4

Sea Witch by Virginia Kantra

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Selkies

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Her spell cannot be broken… From the water… For year, Margred has gone without the touch of another. Now, her need has driven her beyond her own world. For she is a selkie – a legendary being of the sea, able to shape-shift into seductive human form. Finally, she has found the one she wants… From the land… A burned-out veteran of the big-city streets, Caleb Hunter was only too happy to take the job as police chief on the peaceful Maine island of World’s End. Nothing ever happens in this tiny community surrounded by the sea – until he meets a woman who’s everything he’s ever dreamed of. And more… To each other… Their passion is undeniable. Irresistible. But when a murderer begins targeting women in World’s End, Caleb must face the terrible possibility that the killings are somehow connected to the mysterious Margred – and that the power of their love may change the fate of humankind…

This is the first book in the Children of the Sea. It is a book that is a bit mystery, paranormal, and romance. Margred isn’t looking for anything long term. Her heart is with the sea and she just is in her need and Caleb is perfect for that. While Caleb doesn’t know much about Margred he feels the need to be with her and hopefully keep her with him. The story is one that I found to be a quick read. We get sucked into the drama that is surrounding Caleb and his past while hoping that Margred will stay with him. It was something that I thought is a good story with characters that you do care about. But it didn't captivate me like I would have thought.  I will see where this series will go from here in the next book, Sea Fever.

Publisher: Berkley Sensations

ISBN: 0425221997

Pages: 304

Series: Children of the Sea

Volume: 1

Briar Rose by Jane Yolen

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy; Retelling Sleeping Beauty

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Ever since she was a child, Rebecca has been enchanted by her grandmother Gemma’s stories about Briar Rose. But a promise Rebecca makes to her dying grandmother will lead her on a remarkable journey to uncover the truth of Gemma’s astonishing claim: I am Briar Rose. A journey that will lead her to unspeakable brutality and horror. But also to redemption and hope.

This story has been reprinted. It originally was part of Windling's Fairy Tale series. This is a great retelling if not a very dark one. The story is about a granddaughter searching out her family’s origins after the death of her grandmother. It takes her to Poland. There isn’t really a happily ever after. But there is survival. I found this to be a story that captivated me. I have always liked to learn about the past and where people come from. In this story the character is learning about her roots. It is a little sad but sometimes even though we want everything to end well it doesn’t always work out that way. But then that is the way life is.

Publisher: TOR Teen

ISBN: 0765342308

Pages: 224

Series:

Volume:

Not Quite a Husband by Sherry Thomas

Genre: Historical Romance; 1800’s

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Their marriage lasted only slightly longer than the honeymoon—to no one’s surprise, not even Bryony Asquith's. A man as talented, handsome, and sought after by society as Leo Marsden couldn't possibly want to spend his entire life with a woman who rebelled against propriety by becoming a doctor. Why, then, three years after their annulment and half a world away, does he track her down at her clinic in the remotest corner of India? Leo has no reason to think Bryony could ever forgive him for the way he treated her, but he won't rest until he’s delivered an urgent message from her sister—and fulfilled his duty by escorting her safely back to England. But as they risk their lives for each other on the journey home, will the biggest danger be the treacherous war around them—or their rekindling passion?

This is yet another good historical romance by Sherry Thomas. Bryony has run away from everything. Most assuredly Leo Marsden. Leo must come to deliver a message and bring her back to her sick father. Only things seem to keep getting in the way. The story is well put together. I really like that Bryony is a doctor in the late 1800’s. It makes the story quite compelling to read. The dynamic between Leo and Bryony is very entertaining. I really enjoyed reading this book.

Publisher: Bantam

ISBN: 0553592432

Pages: 352

Series:

Volume:

The Fathomless Caves by Kate Forsyth

Genre: Fantasy; Witches, Magic, Dragons, Mer-people, Shapeshifters, Fae, Magical Folk, The Witches of Eileanan

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The final war is waged land against sea… In Eileanan, victory has finally been won, and those of faery kind – from the mighty dragons to the mysterious nyx – have sworn their friendship and aid. Only the sea-dwelling Fairgean have refused to sign the Pact of Peace. Driven by ancient hatreds, they have devoted themselves to destroying all who dwell upon the land. Troubled by the darkness that that may lie ahead, Lachlan agrees to release his beloved Iseult from the sacred oath that binds them together. It will then be for Iseult to decide whether she will remain in the mountains to resume life with her own kin, or return to the man who let her go. To help bring peace to Eileanan, Iseult’s flame-haired twin, Isabeau, must also face her most difficult challenge yet. But before she can prove herself worthy of both the scar of the Soul-Sage and the ring of the sorceress, she must first find a way to heal her own wounded spirit.

This is the final book in the Witches of Eileanan. So much is happening in the conclusion to this great saga. They must fight the mer-people. Save their way of life from the seas rising. Lachlan nearly looses Iseult. Isabeau questions herself. They nearly loose the Lodestar. Like I said a lot is happening. But it’s a page turner and you’ll want to read it to see what happens to everyone.

This is one of those great fantasy sagas that has it all. Kate Forsyth brings to life a very rich and beautiful world that you can’t help but wish to be in. This six part saga is amazing and I have read it several times over and will again. I think that it is one that anyone who reads fantasy will love this saga.

Publisher: ROC Fantasy

ISBN: 0451459024

Pages: 400

Series: The Witches of Eileanan

Volume: 6

The Chosen Sin by Anya Bast

Genre: Paranormal Romance; Vampires

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: In this sensuous and lust-filled otherworld, the Chosen are vampires fighting for their very existence. It is Daria’s destiny to become one of them… Daria Morris is a special forces agent with one obsession: to wreak vengeance on the brutal vampire who nearly destroyed her. Now she’s finally about to get her chance, on one condition. She must become something she detests: a vampire. Her fate rests upon one man’s lethal bite. His name is Alejandro Martinez, and he can help her infiltrate a highly guarded group of the Chosen. But Alejandro is also a distraction for Daria. Because thirteen years ago, they shared a scorching night of passion neither has forgotten. Now, while Daria struggles against her newfound bloodlust, the two must slip into the shadows to bring a monster to justice—even as their desire threatens to consume them. But under the cover of night, they’ll discover that it’s the darkness within that may stand in the way of their hunger for retribution…

This book is a standalone novel. Daria who has been hurt and has lost a very dear friend because of a former lover is out to get her man. But to do so she has to become a vampire. And to do that she must team up with a man that makes her very hot and bothered, Alejandro. He also has his own mission hoping to prove to Daria that he is the only one for her. The story is a great page turner.  The main character was well written with all of her flaws. But her growth along the way is what takes you on a great ride. I really enjoyed reading this book and liked to see a futuristic world that was created which is much different than her other works that I have read.

Publisher: Heat

ISBN: 0425223566

Pages: 320

Series:

Volume:

Ash by Malinda Lo

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Fantasy; Retelling of Cinderella

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Pushed into indentured servitude for her stepmother in the City to pay off her father’s debts, Ash is consumed with grief. She misses her family and her happy life at the edge of the Wood where old magic used to linger in the air like fairy breath. Her only joy comes from the brief, stolen walks in the woods with the dark and dangerous fairy Sidhean. Ash’s single, unspoken hope is that someday he might steal her away, as fairies are said to do. But on the day that Ash meets Kaisa, the King’s Huntress, her heart begins to change. Instead of chasing fairies, from Kaisa she learns the are to the hunt, how to ride and track. Their friendship is as delicate as a new bloom, but it grows and changes, and with it, Ash reawakens her capacity for love – and her desire to live. Entrancing and romantic, Ash is an empowering retelling of Cinderella about choosing life and love over solitude and death, where transformation can come from even the deepest grief.

This was unlike any retelling of a fairy tale I have ever read. One that I found to be inventive and new. Ash is almost a whisper of a person practically begging Sidhean to take her away from her life. Not even caring that she would be dead. But Kaisa changes everything, and she doesn’t even know why she is so drawn to Ash. I loved the hunting aspect that was added along with the talk of the old magic, making the world seem more real and mysterious. Now this book is not due out till September, but it is something that I know I will read again. I enjoyed this very much.

Publisher: Little, Brown

ISBN: 031604010X

Pages: 272

Series:

Volume: 

Blue Moon by Alyson Noel

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Urban Fantasy; Immortals, People with Abilities

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Just as Ever is learning everything she can about her new abilities as an immortal, initiated into the dark, seductive world by her beloved Damen, something terrible is happening to him. As Ever’s powers increase, Damen’s begin to fade after he is stricken by a mysterious illness that threatens his memory, his identity, his life. Desperate to save him, Ever travels to the mystical dimension of Summerland, where she uncovers not only the secrets of Damen’s past – the brutal, tortured history he hoped to keep hidden – but also an ancient text revealing the workings of time. With the approaching blue moon heralding her only window for travel, Ever is forced to decide between turning back the clock and saving her family from the accident that claimed them – or staying in the present and saving Damen, who grows weaker by the day…

This is the second book in the Immortals series. I loved this story. Ever is trying to learn about well, everything she can do. As well as work on her relationship with Damen. But as the new boy enters its almost as if Damen checks out of his body. Things keep going wrong and it just gets all twisted as you can’t figure out who to trust. But its so compelling you can’t put the story down. I loved how Ever was wary of Roman from the beginning. I just wish she had trusted her instincts. The twins where a little creepy, but in a good way and made Summerland more rounded. I loved how imaginative this was. Alyson’s writing is beautiful and I can’t seem to read enough and can't wait to read the next in this series, Shadowland.

Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin

ISBN: 0312532768

Pages: 304

Series: Immortals

Volume: 2