Page by Tamora Pierce

Genre: Young Adult
Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Protector of the Small
Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Summer is over and Keladry of Mindelan is back in training at the royal palace – no longer on probation, but an official page now. Three more years of instruction lie before her. She know that each year the training will be more grueling and that she will have to prove herself over and over. She will have to battle bullies – including her archenemy, Joren – and her nearly crippling fear of heights. Kel also knows that she has a circle of solid friends, from the funny Neal to the teasing Cleon, and the support of her ill-tempered gelding, Peachblossom. What Kel doesn’t know is that the years will hold many surprises. She will make new friends, draw the attention of the King, and save several lives. She will also be thrown into a situation in which she must take control – an act of courage skill, and intuition that will affect how everyone sees her and change forever the way that pages are trained.

This is the second book in the Protector of the Small series. After her first year she is finally a page. Dealing with bullies is just one of the many things that she tackles. The great thing about this story is not only is Kel a strong character but so are all the supporting ones. It’s another great adventure for this group and well worth the read. You see even more of the characters that you love from her past series set in Tortall. I love this book and can’t wait to read the next book in the series, Squire.

Publisher: Laurel LeafISBN: 0679889183
Pages: 268
Series: Protector of the Small
Volume: 2

Things To Do In Denver When You’re Un-Dead by Mark Everett Stone

Genre: Urban Fantasy; Vampires, Ghouls, Zombies, Demons, Mythical Creatures, Magic, Magicians, Ghosts
Sub Genre: Fantasy; Paranormal, Horror
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: For ten years Kal Hakala has been the Bureau of Supernatural Investigation’s top man, the longest surviving agent in its blood-soaked history. The World At Large has no idea that The World Under exists. And its vampires, demons, zombies, and mythic monsters are growing increasingly restless. In all Kal’s time with the Bureau, there has been no case he couldn’t crack, no monster he couldn’t kill. Then a plague of zombies comes to Denver, along with a vicious serial killer dubbed The Organ Donor. A childhood encounter with a legendary monster has left Kal with an endless supply of rage and hatred for all things Supernatural. But now the target is on his forehead, and the Un-Dead don’t die easy. The Bureau has a few aces of its own—a few magicians, a cyber-ghost. Unfortunately Kal is a perennial loner ... And the World Under is wise to His tricks.

This is the first book from the Files of the BSI. It follows Kal while he is on a mission in Denver with flashbacks from when he started with the Bureau and other parts of his past. When I started to read this book it had me from page one. The way that it is written sucks you right in almost as if you are standing there. The story is engaging and though it jumps from present to past it flows so well. That to me is great storytelling. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading the next in the series, What Happens in Vegas Dies in Vegas.

Publisher: Camel Press
ISBN: 978-1603818599
Pages: 318
Series: From the Files of the BSI
Volume: 1

Out Through The Attic by Quincy J. Allen

Genre: Science Fiction; Steampunk; Fantasy; Horror; Cross-Genre; Short Story
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Thirteen fantastic tales from the cavorting, twisted mind of Quincy J. Allen, Out Through the Attic covers everything from steampunk and fantasy to sci-fi and horror. It’s a cross-genre smorgasbord that’s sure to hit the right spot, with a dose or two of straight-up genre fiction for the meat-and-taters appetite.

This is a collection of short stories that are all different types of genres and is brilliantly written. These thirteen tales are so full of life and have a depth to them that isn't always shown in short story collections like this one. Each tale creates a world that sucks you in, the writing is imaginative and compelling. Since this is a book of short stories I don’t want to go into what each tale is about for fear of giving away to much. I will say that my favorite stories where 17 and Baby WEI. The book kept me on the edge of my seat and once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more of Quincy J. Allen’s work.

Publisher: 7DS Books
ISBN: 978-0692204566
Pages: 252
Series:
Volume: 

First Test by Tamora Pierce

Genre: Young Adult
Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Protector of the Small

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Keladry (known as Kel) is the first girl to take advantage of the decree that permits girls to train for the knighthood. The only thing that can stop her is Lord Wyldon, the training master of pages and squires. He does not think girls should be knights and puts her on probation for one year. It is a trial period that no male page has to endure and one that separates the friendly Kel even more from her fellow trainees. But Kel is not someone to underestimate. . .This is the first book in the Protector of the Small series. Kel is the first girl since Alanna to try and openly become a knight. But as she is not hiding who she is they have decided to make her go through one year of probation before letting her be a page. This is the first character that doesn’t have any magical ability. And has quite a few flaws. She is a strong character who makes some amazing friends. I liked the story. Getting to see some of my favorite characters all grown up was amazing. I can’t wait to read the next book, Page.

Publisher: Laurel LeafISBN: 0375829059
Pages: 240
Series: Protector of the Small
Volume: 1

Starman by Sara Douglass

Genre: Fantasy; Magic
Sub Genre:
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Axis is the StarMan of prophecy and legend, destined to lead the three races of his world to unite as one people. The Prophecy foretold that Axis would defeat his half-brother, reclaim the land of Tencendor, and find a traitor in his camp. The Prophecy has also foretold of many a choice that Axis must make in order to fulfill his destiny…but neglected to mention that one of those choices would be to choose the love of either the beautiful and courageous Faraday or the feisty and hauntingly enchanting Azhure. To Faraday he had pledged his love and a place by his side as ruler of Tencendor; to Azhure he had given his children, his time, and his devotion. While Azhure explores her newfound powers as an Icarii Enchantress, and Faraday replants the ancient forests of the Mother, the evil Goragel is plotting Axis’s downfall, invading the sky with ice and terror and the flesh-hungery Gryphons. His most daring move is to follow prophecy, to taunt Axis with the pain of his beloved. But which beloved woman will Goragel choose… and will she be the one whose death will distract Axis from saving the world.

This is the third book in the in the Axis saga. Axis is trying to figure out which women he will choose Faraday and Azhure. While these two strong women have their own parts to play they within the Prophecy. The story takes you on a magical ride that keeps you guessing on what will happen next. Once I started this book I couldn’t put it down. The characters are so well written being full and dynamic. While the book almost seems to complete the story there is another book in this saga, Sinner, which I can’t wait to read.

Publisher: Tor Fantasy
ISBN: 978-0765342812
Pages: 688
Series: Axis
Volume: 3

The Farthest-Away Mountain by Lynne Reid Banks

Genre: Young Adult
Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Witches
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: This is the tale of the young heroine Dakin, who sets out on a terrifying journey through wicked woods and haunted mountain paths to find the farthest-away mountain and break the spell by which it's been bound for two hundred years.

Dakin is a young woman who hears the call of the farthest-away mountain. She goes to find out what is there. As this is a short book I worry about giving to much away so I will not go in depth over this story. It is brilliantly written and keeps you guessing what will happen through out the story. I loved Dakin and how strong she is. This is one of my favorite stories that I have ever read.

Publisher: HarperTrophy
ISBN: 978-0380713035
Pages: 144
Series:
Volume:

Destiny by Elizabeth Haydon

Genre: Fantasy, Magic, Dragons
Sub Genre: Science Fiction, Time Travel
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: To stand against the F'dor--an ancient, vile being intent on destroying the world--a fellowship has been forged: Rhapsody, a Singer of great talent and beauty; Achmed, an assassin with unearthly talents; and Grunthor, a giant of jolly disposition and lethal skill with weapons. Driven by prophetic visions, the three know that time is running short, know that they must find their elusive enemy before his darkness consumes them all. But after their final, brutal confrontation with the F'dor, their world crosses the threshold of disaster and faces utter oblivion. The action reaches a fevered pitch, achieving a crescendo of tragedy, love, and triumph of human spirit over world-shattering cataclysm. With death at hand and the world crumbling at their feet, these three will finally discover their true Destiny.

This is the third book in Symphony of Ages series. Rhapsody, Achmed and Grunthor have gone through so much and yet there is so much more to come for them. The epic fantasy of this series I more than I can convey. Many things that you have been wondering about are answered here. I can’t wait to see where this world will go from here as it seems like it wrapped up beautifully. The next book in this series is, Requiem for the Sun.

Publisher: Tor
ISBN: 978-0812570830
Pages: 864
Series: Symphony of Ages
Volume: 3

Tris’s Book by Tamora Pierce

Genre: Young Adult
Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Circle of Magic
Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: It has been centuries since pirates dared to attack Winding Circle Temple, a renowned center of magic. But after a recent earthquake, the community’s defenses are perilously weakened. For the four young mages studying at Winding Circle – Briar, a former street thief whose magic is with plants; Daja, the outcast Trader honing her powers in metalcraft; Sandry, a noble whose magic lies in weaving and other threadcraft; and Tris, the “weather witch” rejected by her family- the pirates threaten the first real home the four have known. The enemy, led by the pirate queen Pahua and her mage brother Enahar, has a devastating new weapon. Can the four young mages risk using their fledgling powers against such strong opponents? At stake for Daja, Briar, Sandry, and especially Tris are not only their own futures, but the fate of the entire Winding Circle community.

This is the second book in the Circle of Magic series. The characters are still getting used to having their magic tied to one another. But then pirates come to their home and now they have to figure out how they can save it. The book has many twists and turns. Tris is the main character but you get to see other sides of the other children. With their magic not reacting the way it has in the past they must figure out what they can do. I liked this book as it is more than just about saving the day. Seeing the different sides of the characters as they are growing is also one of the things that keeps bringing me back to this series. I look forward to reading the next book in the series, Daja’s Book.

Publisher: Scholastic Press
ISBN: 0590554093
Pages: 272
Series: Circle of Magic
Volume: 2

The Realms of the Gods by Tamora Pierce

Genre: Young Adult
Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Fantastical Animals, Dragons, The Immortals, Tortall
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: During a dire battle against the fearsome Skinners, Daine and her mage teacher Numair, are swept into the Divine Realms. Though happy to be alive, they are not where they want to be. They are desperately needed back home, where their old enemy, Ozorne, and his army of strange creatures are waging war against Tortall. Trapped in the mystical realms, Daine discovers her mysterious parentage. And as these secrets of her past are revealed so is the treacherous way back to Tortall. So they embark on an extraordinary journey home, where the fate of all Tortall rests with Daine and her wild magic.

This is the final book in the Immortals quartet. In this book we finally learn of Daine’s father. This story at first was a little confusing as we get to see more of the gods and goddesses in their own setting. Their trials to getting back to their friends brings both Numair and Daine closer, which I loved. I also enjoyed the interaction with the dragons. There is a lot that Daine has to take in and choose as this story goes on. But she ends up returning to Kit and her friends with Numair. I really liked this a lot and was happy with the out come. For another series by Tamora Pierce this was great to have someone who is more of an average girl who becomes extraordinary. The world that started in the Song of the Lioness series has grown rich with the addition of these books, and I love how they just billed on one another. I look forward to reading the next quartet, Protector of the Small which starts with The First Test.
Publisher: Simon PulseISBN: 141690817X
Pages: 368
Series: The Immortals
Volume: 4

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J. K. Rowling

Genre: Young AdultSub Genre: Urban Fantasy; Fantasy; Magic, Witches, WizardsRating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Harry, an orphan, lives with the Dursleys, his horrible aunt and uncle, and their abominable son, Dudley. One day just before his eleventh birthday, an owl tries to deliver a mysterious letter the first of a sequence of events that end in Harry meeting a giant man named Hagrid. Hagrid explains Harry's history to him: When he was a baby, the Dark wizard, Lord Voldemort, attacked and killed his parents in an attempt to kill Harry; but the only mark on Harry was a mysterious lightning-bolt scar on his forehead. Now he has been invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where the headmaster is the great wizard Albus Dumbledore. Harry visits Diagon Alley to get his school supplies, especially his very own wand. To get to school, he takes the Hogwarts Express from platform nine and three-quarters at King's Cross Station. On the train, he meets two fellow students who will become his closest friends: Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger. Harry is assigned to Gryffindor House at Hogwarts, and soon becomes the youngest-ever Seeker on the House Quidditch team. He also studies Potions with Professor Severus Snape, who displays a deep and abiding dislike for Harry, and Defense Against the Dark Arts with nervous Professor Quirrell; he and his friends defeat a mountain troll, help Hagrid raise a dragon, and explore the wonderful, fascinating world of Hogwarts. But all events lead irrevocably toward a second encounter with Lord Voldemort, who seeks an object of legend known as the Sorcerer's Stone.

This is the first book in the brilliantly written Harry Potter series. Most people already know a lot about this story but for those of you who don’t it is about a boy, Harry who finds out that he is magical. It takes place in England and crosses from the world we know to a beautiful and dangerous magical one that we get to see through a young boy. The first time I read this book I was shocked at how much I loved it. The characters where dynamic and well developed for being so young. I can’t get enough of reading this book and can’t wait to read the next book Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

Publisher: Scholastic
ISBN: 978-0590353427
Pages: 320
Series: Harry Potter
Volume: 1

Sandry’s Book by Tamora Pierce

Genre: Young Adult
Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Circle of Magic
Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Trapped in a dark cellar, a noble girl waits hopelessly, for the door of her prison is sealed with magic… Third time unlucky: a thief who has again been caught stealing will be sentenced to a short, brutal life of hard labor… The lone survivor of a shipwreck, a young trader is pronounced an outcast by her own people… A girl whose strange connection to the weather unsettles everyone, including herself, has run out of refuges… Four young people – all possessing powers they do not understand, all in dire need of rescue, of training, of a home, maybe even of each other – meet up with the one man who can help. The mysterious Niklaren Goldeye takes them, one by one, to Winding Circle, a temple community. There they are installed in a cottage called Discipline. Are they being punished? Or does Niko have some other reason for bringing them together?

This is the first book in the Circle of Magic series. It is about four young children who are all orphans with something special. And together they are amazing. Sandry has grown up as a noble. While Tris has been moved from school and family to many times. Daja has lost everything and is even scorned by her people for surviving. Briar is a thief and can’t run anymore. But in while they are dealing with all this there are things that are also coming and they must work together. I really like this story even though it is for a younger audience. The characters are well developed and you get to watch as each one discovers themselves. It is another amazing magical world that Tamora Pierce creates. I look forward to reading the next book in this series, Tris’s Book.

Publisher: Scholastic Press
ISBN: 0590554085
Pages: 272
Series: Circle of Magic
Volume: 1

Emperor Mage by Tamora Pierce

Genre: Young Adult
Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Fantastical Animals, Dragons, The Immortals, Tortall

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Sent to Carthak as part of the Tortallan peace delegation, Daine finds herself in the middle of a sticky political situation. She doesn’t like the Carthaki practice of keeping slaves, but it’’s not her place to say anything – she’s just there to heal the emperor’s birds. It’’s extremely frustrating! What’s more, her power has grown in a mysterious way. As the peace talks stall, Daine puzzles over Carthak’s two-faced Emperor Ozorne. How can he be so caring with his birds and so cruel to his people? Daine is sure he’s planning something. Daine must fight the powerful Emperor Mage, knowing that the safety and peace of the realm depend on stopping Ozorne’s power-hungry schemes.

This is the third book in the Immortals series. Daine travels to Carthak to help the emperor’s birds. Only things are not what they seemed. Ok first and for most I do not like Ozorne at all. Well I guess your not supposed to but he’s just evil. I did like the power that Daine was given for the book. I found that it was great when she handled it quite nicely. I love the relationship between Numair and Daine. But I loved this book as there is so much going on and it just add more to the world of Tortallan. Numair going back to the city that he used to live and go to school. Daine making friends with the heir to the throne. It was very well done. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series of the Realms of the Gods.

Publisher: Simon PulseISBN: 1416903372
Pages: 358
Series: The Immortals
Volume: 3

Talking to Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Dragons, Witches, Wizards, Magicians

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Magic and wizards and dragons – oh my! Daystar never thought he’s be walking through the Enchanted Forest with a magic sword, a fire-witch, and a baby dragon. He never dreamed his mother, Cimorene, would tell him to leave their home and not to return until his “task” was complete. Or that he alone held the power to release King Mendanbar and the Enchanted Forest from the wizards’ evil spell. He doesn’t even know who Kin Mendanbar is. But Daystar learns quickly – and that’s good, because he’s about to encounter magic and wizards and dragons. A deadly combination…

This is a brilliant conclusion to this series. Daystar is just as compelling as Cimorene. He has no idea about why he has to do the things that are being asked of him. This is one ending that you’re not going to be disappointed in at all. It is one of my favorite stories I’ve ever read. Patricia C. Wrede is a very imaginative writer. That never leaves you wanting. Her writing is so beautiful. I loved this series.

Publisher: Sandpiper

ISBN: 0152046917

Pages: 272

Series: The Enchanted Forest Chronicles

Volume: 4

Dragon Lovers by Jo Beverley, Mary Jo Putney, Barbara Samuel, Karen Harbaugh

Genre: Fantasy; Dragons, Shifters, Magic

Sub Genre: Paranormal Romance

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: The flames of desire can burn…Romance and fantasy collide in these enchanting stories featuring dragons-and love-in all their many forms. Four of today's most popular authors bring to life mythical creatures, otherworlds of yesterday and today, and the passionate melding of hearts. From a virgin princess's first love to a shape-changing samurai bridegroom, from a young widow and her sexy handyman's secret project to a knight and his distressed damsel, the courage, beauty, and strength of dragons inspire the most unforgettable stories ever told.

This anthology brings four stories of dragons. Each story brings its own little twist. Most of the stories are set in an older more mythical time while there is one contemporary tale. I thought that the stories where good but not as good as they could have been. It’s a great book if you need something to kill some time. The stories are slightly predictable. I don’t think I will read this book a second time.

Publisher: Signet Eclipse

ISBN: 0451225368

Pages: 368

Series:

Volume:

Lips Touch Three Times by Laini Taylor

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Demons, Goblins, Curses

Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: Everyone dreams of getting the kiss of a lifetime – but what if that kiss carried some unexpected consequences? A girl who’s always been in the shadows finds herself pursued by the unbelievably attractive new boy at school, who may or may not be the death of her. Another girl grows up mute because of a curse placed on her by a vindictive spirit, and later must decide whether to utter her first words to the boy she loves and risk killing everyone who hears her if the curse is real. And a third girl discovers that the real reason for her transient life with her mother has to do with belonging – literally belonging – to another world entirely, full of dreaded creatures who can transform into animals, and whose queen keeps little girls as personal pets until they grow to childbearing age.

This book has 3 very different stories that are very imaginative. Each one seems to take place at a different time with different magic. I don’t normally read books that have short stories in them but this book was very good. It took me to new places. I enjoyed reading this book.

Publisher: Arthur A. Levine Books

ISBN: 0545055857

Pages: 272

Series:

Volume:

Wolf-Speaker by Tamora Pierce

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Fantasy; Magic, Fantastical Animals, Dragons, The Immortals, Tortall

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: When Daine is summoned by the wold pack that saved her life a year earlier, she knows she has to go. She and Numair travel to Dunlath Valley to answer the call. But when they arrive, Dain realizes with a shock that it’s not just the animals whose lives are threatened; people are in danger too. Dunlath’s rulers have discovered black opals in their valley and are dead set on mining the magic these stones embody. Daine learns that Dunlath’s lord and lady plan to use this power to overthrow King Jonathan – even if it means irreversibly damaging the land and killing their workers. On a mission to save both her animal friends and her human ones, Daine has to master her wild magic in order to fight for the kingdom and triumph over the would-be usurpers.

In this story you get to meet the wolves from Daine’s old village. After learning what has been going on in Dunlath Valley Daine must save everyone. And at one point even have to learn to do some magic on her own. As her powers grow and she learns what she is capable of she has to find away to help those innocent people. I love the way the animals are portrayed in this book. They bring a new light to how the characters don’t have to be human to be significant. I loved the way the wolves interacted together and how they were different from other packs. I also liked the friends that Daine makes here with Maura. She starts to see more of what she can do which at first scares her. But she takes it in strides. It’s a great story can't wait to read the next book, Emperor Mage.

Publisher: Simon Pulse

ISBN: 1416903445

Pages: 368

Series: The Immortals

Volume: 2

Fire by Kristin Cashore

Genre: Young Adult

Sub Genre: Fantasy; People with Abilities, Prequel to Graceling

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Back Cover: It is not a peaceful time in the Dells. Young King Nash clings to the throne, while rebel lords, in the north and south, build armies to unseat him. War is coming. The mountains and forests are filled with spies and thieves. This is where Fire lives, a girl whose startling appearance is impossibly around her. Everyone…except Prince Brigan.

This is the second book that is in the Graceling Realms. This is even more then what I was expecting. Being a prequel did not do anything to this. The story is amazing and Fire is the perfect heroine. She is always scared to be used and becoming her father. Brigan is the man that others have made him and yet he is so good and tries to help everyone. Archer is so multi-dimensional being the best friend, lover and almost clown at times. I loved reading this book and found it to be a great addition to this world. I can't wait to read the next book in this series, Bitterblue.

Publisher: Dial Books

ISBN: 014241591X

Pages: 480

Series: Graceling Realms

Volume: 2