Midnight Awakening

I enjoy vampire novels just as much as the next reader. There are some that over the top and other that are simply enjoyable to read. And one the newer series (at least for me) that I find satisfying (especially if you're in the mood for hunky, macho vampires) is Lara Adrian's Midnight Breed.

I finally got around to reading the third book of the series, Midnight Awakening:

With a dagger in her hand and vengeance on her mind, Darkhaven beauty Elise Chase prowls Boston’s streets in search of retribution against the Rogue vampires who took from her everything she cherished. Using an extraordinary psychic gift, she tracks her prey, well aware that the power she possesses is destroying her. She must learn to harness this gift, and for that she can turn to only one man—the deadliest of the Breed warriors, Tegan.

No stranger to loss, Tegan knows Elise’s pain. He knows fury, but when he slays his enemies it is with ice in his veins. He is perfect in his self-control, until Elise seeks his aid in her personal war. An unholy alliance is forged—a bond that will link them by blood and vow—and plunge them into a tempest of danger, desire, and the darkest passions of the heart. . . .

I really enjoyed the first two books of the series, and my expectations for this book were high. And I was not disappointed.

I was hooked right from the beginning...I couldn't and wouldn't put down the book. I can't pin-point exactly what made this book so great. The characters, old and new, were wonderful to read; both the hero and heroine of this book have suffered tremendous loss, but they're both willing the avenge their loved ones, regardless of what may happen to them. The setting: we have a warehouse is Boston, a beautiful house in Berlin, a questionable hospital, and a glimpse of Prague. It has the darkness that appeals to me without becoming too disturbing. And then there's this cliffhanger at the end....I need to get my hands on the next book.

I highly recommend this book.

Midnight Awakening by Lara Adrian (4.5/5) Contemporary Romance; Paranormal: Vampire; Published: Dell (12/2007); Series: # 3, Midnight Breed; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (34); 2009 Support Your Local Library (29);

Devil of the Highlands

They call him the Devil . . .

He is the most notorious laird of Scotland: fierce, cold, deadly . . . and maybe even worse. Yet Evelinde has just agreed to wed him. Anything, she thinks, is better than her cruel stepmother. Though Evelinde should be wary of the rumors, she can't help but be drawn to this warrior . . . for the Devil of the Highlands inspires a heat within her that is unlike anything she has ever known.

They may call him whatever they wish, but Cullen, Laird of Donnachaidh, cares only for the future of his clan. He must find a wife, a woman to bear him sons and heed his commands. He has no need for beauty or grace, but one taste of his lovely bride's sweet lips and the sultry feel of her skin arouse an untamed passion. Perhaps there's more to marriage than he thought . . .

To get rid of her step-daughter, Edda, is willing to do anything. Even agreeing to marry her to a rumored murderer. But Evelinde doesn't think that the "Devil" is a murderer and she will prove it.

Lynsay Sands is a hit or miss author for me, and for me it was a miss. In my opinion the author had the opportunity to make the plot more enticing but it was not done. The characters seemed shallow and boring, the story was very much a one sided deal, I felt like I didn't to know Cullen. And the investigation of the "crimes" was a tad to simplistic. But it just my opinion....

And it wasn't so bad that I would consider it a waste of my time. Well, I guess that's the silver lining!

Devil of the Highlands by Lynsay Sands (2.5/5) Historical Romance; Published: Avon (2/2009); 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (33); 2009 Support Your Local Library Challenge (28); 2009 Pub Challenge (8);

Corked by Cabernet

What's not to love about A Wine Lover's Mystery series? It's set in the Napa Valley, more presicely in a winery, it has fiesty and funny heroine, a sexy hero and it has recipes!

Here's the blurb for Corked by Cabernet by Michele Scott:

Nikki Sands is exactly where she wants to be as the Manager of the Malveaux Estates in Napa Valley—and "shacking up" with the owner, her boyfriend Derek Malveaux. But she starts to lose control when some self-helpers arrive and steal her peace of mind...

Nikki couldn't be happier settling into the vineyard with her boyfriend Derek. But when a guru and his followers check into the winery's boutique hotel and spa for a retreat, she feels far from enlightened as she's forced to take on the role of event coordinator. Their first outing on the famous Napa Valley Wine train reinforces her doubt when a member goes missing. The guru's devotee is found in the wine storage car where someone quite literally—and fatally—put a cork in him. It's up to Nikki to stop a killer who's developed a real taste for murder...

In the fifth installement of the series, we find Nikki organizing a retreat for guru Sansibaba and his followers - S.E.E. (Source of Enlightened Elite) the newest pet project of Simon and Marco. Derek is out of town for business. The first event Nikki finds the body of one of the members of S.E.E.. Detective Yummy, excuse, Robinson asks Nikki to keep her ears open, basically he asks for her help.

The book has the usual fast pace that I expect for a Michele Scott book. There's also the comic relief of Simon and Marco, I love those two, but they've also grown on me...there's a depth in each of them that I hadn't seen yet. We're also given a little info on Robinson's life, which explains a lot for me. And then there's Derek, although we don't see him all that much in this book, he does put on quite a performance at the end.

Getting to the murder, and the motive behind it, it just doesn't make sense, to me at least. It was explained, but it felt like a weak excuse.

Corked by Cabernet by Michele Scott (4/5) Mystery; Published: Berkley Prime Crime (2/2009); Series: # 5, A Wine Lover's Mystery; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (32); 2009 Support Your Local Library (27); 2009 Pub Challenge (7);

Mayhem in High Heels

I've been hooked on Gemma Halliday's High Heels series right from the first book, Spying In High Heels. I love the heroine, Maddie and her leading man Ramirez. I've been looking forward to this book for a long time.

Here's the blurb for Mayhem in High Heels:

Maddie Springer is finally walking down the aisle with the man of her dreams. And she's got the perfect wedding planner to pull it all off in style. Well, perfect, that is, until the woman winds up dead—murdered in buttercream icing. Suddenly Maddie's hope of a dream wedding melts faster than an ice sculpture at an outdoor buffet. And when her groom-to-be is assigned the detective in charge of the case, there goes any chance of a honeymoon. Unless, of course, Maddie can find the murderer before her big day.

With the help of her fellow fashionista friends, Maddie vows to unveil the cold-blooded killer. Is it the powerful ex-husband, the hot young boy toy, a secret lover from the past, or a billionaire bridezilla on the warpath? As the wedding day grows closer, tempers flare, old flames return, and Maddie's race to the altar turns into a race against time.

Maddie and her main man are finally getting married. Being her usual busy self, Maddie gets help from the best wedding planner she can find. But there's a little hitch, that said planner has met an unfortunate accident - buttercream frosting and a knife.

I really enjoyed this book. It had the usual fast paced, humor and just plain fun that I expect when I read Gemma Halliday. Maddie, Dana and Marco, their own version of Charlie's Angels is hilarious, but Dana and Marco are doing double duty...not only are the helping to solve the murder but they are also planning Maddie and Ramirez's wedding. I was truly surprised at the end when they caught the murderer. I was expecting someone else, but it did make sense, after it was explained to me...I was having a moment.

I was expecting a twist at the end. I truly was...Don't get me wrong, I loved the ending, but I've been spoiled with the previous books, there's always a twist or a big cliffhanger, and it didn't happen in this one. Which makes me wonder if this will be the last High Heels book in the series. I certainly hope not.

Mayhem in High Heels by Gemma Halliday (4/5) Mystery; Published: Dorchester (1/09); Series: # 5, High Heels Mystery; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (30); 2009 Support Your Local Library (25); 2009 Pub Challenge (6);

Wives and Daughters

I just finished reading Wives and Daughters by Elizabeth Gaskell, and what a wonderful experience it was. Although I've heard of the author beforehand - I'm a huge fan of the BBC mini series North & South, I had never read her. I also have N&S on my nightstand waiting for its turn. But Wives and Daughters was a library book, I decided to read it first.

Wives and Daughters was the last novel that Elizabeth Gaskell wrote, actually she never finished the book. She dies while writing it. But by no means is the book unfinished, a lot of the issues were finalized, and the editor/publisher wrote a brief epilogue.

Wives and Daughters is the story of Molly Gibson. She a sweet, sincere, and at times boring character, but she's so lovable. Her father, a widowed doctor, is concerned about his daughters upbringing he sends Molly to the Hamley's for a visit.Molly is warmly received at the home of Squire Hamley and his disabled wife. The Hamley's have two sons, Osborne and Roger. Molly befriends them both, although Osborne is considered the favorite, it is Roger that Molly eventually falls in love with. While she's there, Mr. Gibson, marries Hyacinth Clair Kirkpatrick, a charming but petty, manipulative widow and former governess in the household of Lord Cumnor.

Although Molly does not like her stepmother, she adores her stepsister Cynthia. They are both very different people but they get along together beautifully. There were times that I felt that Mrs. Gibson resented the relationship between Cynthia and Molly. Cynthia has her own issues, she has a distant relationship with her mother, and she openly says that she doesnt love her because she never had a chance to know her. She is also secretly engaged to Mr. Preston, whom she avoids at all costs.

Although I didn't care much for either Cynthia and Osborne, I felt they they were both selfish, and cowards. They had one redeeming quality, they were truly sorry for the wrongs they did.

I absolutely loved the book! I thought it was beautifully written and it was believable. I think I've found an author that I love as much as Jane Austen. I highly recommend this book!

Wives and Daughters by Elizabeth Gaskell (5/5) Classic Literature; Published: Cornhill (1866); 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (29); 2009 Support Your Local Library (24); 18th & 19th Century Women Writers' Reading Challenge (3); Romance Reading Challenge (3)

What I Did For Love

How did this happen? Georgie York, once the costar of America's favorite television sitcom, has been publicly abandoned by her famous husband, her film career has tanked, her father is driving her crazy, and her public image as a spunky heroine is taking a serious beating.

What should a down-on-her-luck actress do? Not go to Vegas . . . not run into her detestable former costar, dreamboat-from-hell Bramwell Shepard . . . and not get caught up in an ugly incident that leads to a calamitous elopement. Before she knows it, Georgie has a fake marriage, a fake husband, and maybe (or not) a fake sex life.

It's a paparazzi free-for-all, and Georgie's nonsupporting cast doesn't help. There's Bram's punk-nightmare housekeeper, Georgie's own pushy parent, a suck-up agent, an icy studio head with a private agenda, and her ex-husband's new wife, who can't get enough of doing good deeds and saving the world—the bitch. As for Georgie's leading man, Bram's giving the performance of his life, but he's never cared about anyone except himself, and it's not exactly clear why.

Two enemies find themselves working without a script in a town where the spotlight shines bright . . . and where the strongest emotions can wear startling disguises.

I really hate when this happens. I've been looking forward on reading a new Susan Elizabeth Phillips book for ages, and I kept What I Did For Love on my nightstand for a while before reading it. I've been anticipating this read, imagining it to be wonderful like the previous book I read of hers, Natural Born Charmer. So, I begin the book, and after 10 minutes I came to the conclusion that the book is based on the Jennifer Anniston/Brad Pitt/Angelina Jolie media circus. I kept on reading, hoping that it would be a good experience.

A good experience? Well, not all that good. I found Georgie to be a wet noodle, she needed to grow a spine, but I liked her...eventually she found what she wanted and didn't give a heck what her father/manager thought. I didn't like Bram, he was ass. The one character that I really enjoyed was Chaz. She was the saving grace of the book.

I probably should have stopped reading the book halfway through but I didn't because of the author. Well, because of her previous books, I was hoping that the end would redeem the book. It didn't, I'm afraid to say...Just my opinion.

What I Did For Love by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (2.5/5) Romance; Published: William Morrow (1/2009); 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (28); 2009 Support Your Local Library (23); 2009 Pub Challenge (6); Romance Reading Challenge (2);

The Illumination

Natalie Landau, a museum curator with an expertise in Mesopotamian protective amulets and magical beliefs, has received a puzzling gift from her sister Dana--a necklace with a blue evil eye pendant on it. The Evil Eye is a symbol of protection common throughout the world, with a history connecting it to many religions.

When Natalie learns Dana was murdered only hours after sending the gift, she begins to think her evil eye amulet had something to do with her sister’s death. As she races to discover the origin of the pendant, Natalie is sucked into an international battle between powerful religious factions, each battling for the eye, which turns out to be far more valuable—and far more powerful--than she could ever imagine.

When Natalie receives a small gift from her sister, from Iraq where Dana is a reporter for a major news station, Natalie feels like there might be hope to salvage their shaky relationship. But when she finds out that Dana was killed, and her cameraman is missing, Natalie cannot rest until she finds the truth behind the antique necklace and pouch. And she's hoping that Joe D'Amato will be able to help her.

I'm a sucker when it comes to action/adventure/intrigue type of stories, and mix religion into it I'm a very happy reader. I absolutely love the genre, and truth be told, I don't think I'll tire of it anytime soon. So it isn't surprising that I was hooked right from the beginning. I couldn't put the book down...good thing it was a P.A. day and the kids kept busy with video and board games...because I needed the time to read.

Compared to the authors' previous book, The Book of Names, is was more violent. Which within the context of the story I found that it wasn't out of place, but in my opinion there was a little too much of it. I think it may have helped my need to finish the book, I wanted the good guys to win. I enjoyed the explanation of the Light, the way it was created and the reason behind the various groups wanting it. I liked both Natalie and Joe, they made a good partnership, but it would have been nice to have more background on other characters.

The Illumination by Jill Gregory and Karen Tintori (4/5) Suspense; Published: St. Martin's Press (2009); 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (27); 2009 Support Your Local Library (22); 2009 Pub Challenge (5);

Ghost at Work

Bailey Ruth Raeburn has always been great at solving mysteries. Why should a little thing like her death change anything? In fact, being dead gives her more of an opportunity to be on top of events. Bailey Ruth is delighted that her unique position as a ghost makes it possible for her to lend a helping hand, sometimes seen and sometimes not. And if anybody needs a little help, it's Kathleen, the pastor's wife. There's a dead man on her porch, and once the body is discovered, the pastor is sure to become a suspect.

Uncharitable people might call it meddling, but Bailey Ruth knows Kathleen needs her help! As a member of Heaven's Department of Good Intentions, Bailey Ruth goes back to earth to extricate Kathleen from a dire situation. If Bailey Ruth has to bend a few rules to help Kathleen save her family, Wiggins, her fussbudget supervisor, will make sure it all turns out right in the end.

Although I have heard of Carolyn Hart's Death on Demand and Henrie O series, I have never read her books. Well, until I picked up Ghost At Work at the library recently.

The concept is different from the other ghost/spirit mystery series. The ghost is this one is the actual heroine, although a tad annoying at times, but nevertheless she is entertaining. I found the book fast paced and interesting, although times I found it to be a little out there in certain areas, it was still a good read.

I enjoyed the fact that Bailey Ruth had been absent from earth for a while, and she had to learn about certain technologies. And also I found that the rules or precepts that she was given by her superior vastly entertaining, expecially when she was trying to bend said rules. The persons of interest of the investigation of the murder were interesting, or least the way that Bailey Ruth did the "snooping", or the way she tried to the help the police chief.

Overall I found the story charming and I will be looking forward on reading more books by this author.

Ghost at Work by Carolyn Hart (4/5) Mystery; Paranormal: Ghost; Published: William Morrow (2008); Series: # 1, Bailey Ruth Raeburn; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (26); 2009 Support Your Local Library (21);

The Wednesday Letters

They died in each other's arms. But their secret - the letters - did not die with them. True love keeps no secrets.

Jack and Laurel have been married for 39 years. They've lived a good life and appear to have had the perfect marriage. With his wife cradled in his arms, and before Jack takes his last breath, he scribbles his last "Wednesday Letter."

When their adult children arrive to arrange the funeral, they discover boxes and boxes full of love letters that their father wrote to their mother each week on Wednesday. As they begin to open and read the letters, the children uncover the shocking truth about the past.

In addition, each one must deal with the present-day challenges. Matthew has a troubled marriage, Samantha is a single mother, and Malcolm is the black sheep of the family who has returned home after a mysterious two-year absence. The Wednesday Letters has a powerful message about forgiveness and quietly beckons for readers to start writing their own "Wednesday Letters."

I read this book a few days ago, and I've been putting off writing my thoughts on this book. I can't seem to express my thoughts coherently. I have mixed thoughts on this book.

I love the concept of the story. A couple whose love is enduring and forgiving, who die in each others arms. They leave their children a amazing gift, love letters written each Wednesday night during their marriage. Beautiful thought, isn't it. Anyway these letters are read by the children, within a day or two, which I found to not to be realistic, and the letters jump back and forth in the years. Maybe it's just me, but I like the idea of reading letters chronologically.

Each one of the children deals with the grief and the reveal of the "secret" differently, which makes perfect sense. But the issues and the resolve just seemed to be rushed in my opinion.

The book comes down to love, acceptance and forgiveness. And the author does a good job on showing it in the book, but (and it's a huge one) is was just so rushed. Personally I would have wanted more information on the children lives, the couple's everyday life in B&B, you get the point.

The Wednesday Letters by Jason F. Wright (3.5/5) Fiction; Published: Shadow Mountain (2007); New Author; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (25); 2009 Support Your Local Library Challenge (20);

Devil May Ride

I been waiting to read the second book of A Ghost Duster Mystery series since I read the first book, Remains of the Dead, last year. Yep, it's one of those series...at least for me, that is.

The heroine of the series, Sadie, has a special gift. She has to ability to see and talk to ghosts. And in her line of business it comes in handy, she's crime scene cleaner, when ghosts/spirits aren't quite ready to cross over she helps them out.

Here's the blurb for Devil May Ride:

Sadie Novak is blessed with the gift of second sight. More of a curse, really, since she's the owner of a crime scene cleanup company and can't get through a job without the ghost of a murder victim popping in for a chat.

Sadie and her sexy partner, Zack, find themselves knee-deep in trouble on their latest job when they stumble over evidence of a cult ritual in an abandoned meth lab, and Sadie comes face-to-face with an evil spirit unlike any she's seen before. And it's no coincidence that a depleted hoard of stolen cash turns up at her next crime scene just in time to convince a gang of meth-deprived motorcyclists that Sadie made off with their money.

With a hell-raising band of bikers hot on her heels, Sadie has to act fast. She knows the threats are all connected, but how? It's a shock to discover that everything is linked to her own family - a secret so dark it makes gossiping with ghosts look like child's play.

What is a girl to do when she has a gang of bikers, an evil ghost, and satanic cult after her? Rely on her family and friends for help. And that exactly what happens. That's one of the thing I enjoy in this series, she doesn't work alone, she has a number of willing helpers.

Like the first book, this one is fast paced. The storyline moves along quickly without having those awkward moments - as if you are missing something. We get more information on Sadie's brother Brian and the possible reasons for his suicide. We also learn about her uncle Gary, who everyone believed to be schizophrenic. We're also introduced to a new character her aunt Lynn, I'm hoping to see more of her. Like in the previous book there's a very emotional ending with a special ghost crossing over. Good thing I had the tissues close by, it was a definite tear jerker.

My only complaint, is that I now have to wait until December for the next book of the series.

Devil May Ride by Wendy Roberts (4.5/5) Contemporary Mystery; Paranormal: Ghost/Psychic; Published: Obsidian (12/08); Series: # 2, A Ghost Dusters Mystery; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (24); 2009 Support Your Local Library (19);

Fireside

Fireside is the latest novel in the Lakeshore Chronicles by Susan Wiggs. In this book we see Bo Crutcher again, he was in the previous book, Snowfall at Willow Lake.

Here's the blurb:

Baseball hopeful Bo Crutcher is about to get his shot at the majors. That is, until life throws him a curve ball. When AJ, the son he's never met, lands on his doorstep, Bo's life becomes a whole new ball game. He needs help—fast.

Enter Kimberly van Dorn. Hired to smooth Bo's rough exterior for the media, she expects the kind of shallow pro athlete she's used to handling. But Bo is willing to sacrifice everything for his vulnerable son. Kim can train him to hit a home run with the press, but over a breathtaking winter on frozen Willow Lake, she realizes he has far more to teach her about the game of life…and putting love first.

In Fireside he gets an opportunity that he never thought he would get, to play Major league baseball. But at the same time, he gets a frantic call from the mother of his son, and it may just be life changing. For the first time in twelve yea rs he'll have a chance to spend time with son. But he knows next to nothing on raising children.

Kimberly van Dorn, left LA after a rocky relationship with a pro athlete. Not only did the jerk breakup with her, he also fired her. She comes to Willow Lake for some much needed TLC, and her mothers kind support.

Kimberly and Bo soon find that they can help each other. Bo needs help with his imagine, and to get media savvy. And Kimberly wants to get back on her feet. Along the way she helps Bo connect with his son, and loses her heart to both Bo and AJ.

I found myself glued to the couch. I was engrossed. It was fast paced and entertaining. The characters (as usual) were interesting and familiar. It's great to see some of the characters from the previous books. And the newly introduced characters weren't too shabby either. I liked Kim. Her wanting, her needing a change but also her willingness to help Bo not only with his media training but also with his son, spoke volumes in my opinion. Bo grew from a self centered bachelor to caring single father. But the scene stealer of the book was AJ, he was such a courageous boy and it showed with everything he did.

Fireside by Susan Wiggs (4/5) Romance; Published: Mira (2/09); Series: # 5, Lakeshore Chronicles; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (23); 2009 Support Your Local Library (18); 2009 Pub Challenge (4);

Camilla

I read Evelina last month, and this month's selection was Camilla - a selection for the 18th & 19th Century Women Writers' Reading Challenge. I've had this book on my nightstand for a couple of weeks. I tried several times, but the length of the book kept me from starting it. It's a big book, the total pages are 956. Yikes. And because of its length I'm also reading it for the Chunkster Challenge.

Here's the synopsis of the book (taken from Barnes & Noble):

First published in 1796, Camilla deals with the matrimonial concerns of a group of young people - Camilla Tyrold and her sisters, the daughters of a country parson, and their cousin Indiana Lynmere - and, in particular, with the love affair between Camilla herself and her eligible suitor, Edgar Mandlebert. The path of true love, however, is strewn with intrigue, contretemps and misunderstanding.. "An enormously popular eighteenth-century novel, Camilla is touched at many points by the advancing spirit of romanticism. As in Evelina, Fanny Burney weaves into her novel strands of light and dark, comic episodes and Gothic shudders, and creates a pattern of social and moral dilemmas which emphasize and illuminate the gap between generations.

It took me a while to get into this novel, I found that it started off a little slow but it gained my full attention after the first hundred pages. Like the synopsis says it's the story of Camilla, her sisters and her cousin Indiana and their pursuit of matrimony. I enjoyed the way the author described the events and the way each individual girl took in that experience.

Like any other novel, I had my favourite characters. I enjoyed Camilla but my favourite was Eugenia - Camilla's younger sister. Her character, she was intelligent and soft spoken but also a reliance on her own thoughts and ideals, and not being persuaded too easily was so different in comparison to Indiana and even Camilla. But she also easily taken by an unscrupulous character, which didn't demean the story at all for me, but added to the whole storyline.

Camilla and Edgar's choice to take other people's advice and not to listen to their own feelings left me a little cold, but I do understand the reason for them to do so. The people, were to them their confident and mentors, and what would be their reason on giving bad advice. It seems that their relationship revolved around a series of misunderstandings.

I came to the conclusion of two things. First, the book should have been called Eugenia, she really was the one character that shone. Secondly, the novel was very long, and personally I didn't think that much of the goings-on were needed.

Camilla by Frances Burney (4/5) Classic Literature; Published: 1796; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (22); 2009 Support Your Local Library (17); 18th & 19th Century Women Writers' Reading Challenge (2); Chunkster Challenge (1);

The Ghost and the Haunted Mansion

I'm on a roll with the paranormal mystery and I can't seem to stop. Not that I'm complaining...I just wonder how long it will last?

Here's the blurb for The Ghost and the Haunted Mansion by Alice Kimberley:

Bookshop owner Penelope Thornton-McClure didn't believe in ghosts - until she met the ghost of hard-boiled 1940s private investigator Jack Shepard. And when Pen's friend and mailman, Seymour Tarnish, gets into deep trouble, Pen not only believes in her ghost - she also thinks he can help...

An elderly lady of leisure has been found dead on posh Larchment Avenue, her will recently - and suspiciously - revised to name Seymour as heir of her mansion. Just as eyes turn to him as the murdered - and Seymour gets busy settling into his ritzy digs - the mansion's ghosts begin plaguing him. So he hires a team of parapsychologists to exorcise all the spirits from the Quindicott - and that includes Jack. Pen must act fast, because losing Jack scares Pen more than rattling chains and cold spots...

So far all the book of the Haunted Bookshop series have been fun to read, and I think it's what keeps me coming back to more. I love the main characters and their banter. And I also enjoy their friendship and the way they need to be together.

I also enjoy the secondary characters. Seymour Tarnish for instance is one of my favorites and I was happy to see him take a "lead" role in this mystery, even if he was a "person of interest". But when he brings in the people to exorcise the ghosts he had me worried...well not overly much...you cannot have Haunted Bookshop without a ghost.

The Ghost and the Haunted Mansion by Alice Kimberly (3.5/5) Contemporary Mystery; Paranormal: Ghosts; Published: Berkley Prime Crime (1/2009); 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (21); 2009 Support Your Local Library (16); 2009 Pub Challenge (3);

No Rest for the Wiccan

Maggie O'Neill loves her job at Enchantments as much as she loves being Indiana's newest witch. But when her family needs her, she's still willing to lend a hand—even if she has to reach beyond the grave...

It's a long, hot summer in Stony Mill, and Maggie is busy watching TV reruns, minding the store, and figuring out her love life. Then she reluctantly volunteers to care for her bedridden, oh-so-perfect sister, Mel, and her beautiful nieces. But Mel isn't the only focus of Maggie's attention. There are some strange spirits hanging about the area—and it looks like a job for Maggie and the N.I.G.H.T.S. ghost hunting team.

And even as she tries to deal with the long-dead, Maggie must cope with the recently-deceased. A friend of Mel's loses her husband to a dreadful fall, and the police are calling it accidental death. Maggie's not so sure, and sets her second sights on finding a first-degree murderer...

Another good quick read. I can devour one easily enough in a day. I just wished I had more time to do it...

In this book Maggie and her possy investigate not only a ghost/spirit possession of her sister's house but also a bizarre murder. And neither these two take too much of the book. It's more about her involvement with NIGHTS and it coming to the public. There's also this love triangle going on between Maggie, Marcus and Tom.

I'm hoping that the author won't prolong the triangle, I really hate when a heroine cannot make up her mind. Maggie needs to make up her mind and stick to her decision. Although I like Tom, I find him a little boring and lately I've found that the only time they talk is regarding "police business", plus he's not a fan of her gift. On the other hand there's Marcus, super sexy, and interesting and he's also involved with the paranormal investigations, but something about him makes me not trust him.

No Rest for the Wiccan by Madelyn Alt (3.5/5) Contemporary Mystery; Paranormal: Ghost/Psychic; Published: Berkley (2008); Series: # 4, A Bewitching Mystery; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (20); 2009 Support Your Local Library (15);

Aunt Dimity Beats the Devil

With rain crashing down on her Range Rover, as it climbs up a steep embankment on the Northumberland moors, Lori Shepherd is beginning to doubt the wisdom of her decision to evaluate a rare book collection at Wyrdhurst Hall.

The grim, neo-gothic hall that greets her upon arrival is full of surprises-including a charming, secretive stranger, and a cache of World War I letters that tell a tale of doomed love and hint at a hidden treasure. It will take all of Dimity's supernatural skills to help Lori solve the puzzle and restore peace to a family haunted by its tragic past.

The main reason I come back to read the Aunt Dimity series, is the simplicity. Not that the story is simple, but the way it's written and the way the author just grabs you, and keeps you entertained without suspense (the thriller kind) and gore. The author is an entertaining story teller.

As usual I found it very easy to get into the story and lose track of time. This time around we don't see Bill, Lori's husband. She's taking a working vacation away from the twins and Bill, to catalogue a collection of rare books for an old friend. And as usual Lori has the knack of finding trouble, this time around she accidentally drives through a military road, and, um, you should read the book.

It has the humour and the warmth that Aunt Dimity provides. Also cannot forget the wisdom. But there's a tiny problem, there's another ghost who needs Lori's help and she's not taking no for an answer. There's love letters between two young people that are divided not only because of war, but because of a cruel man.

Love it, and cannot wait to read the next book of the series.

Aunt Dimity Beats the Devil by Nancy Atherton (4/5) Contemporary Mystery; Paranormal: Ghost; Published: Penguin (2001); Series: # 6, Aunt Dimity; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (19); 2009 Support Your Local Library (14);

The Ghost and the Femme Fatale

Here's the fourth installment of A Haunted Bookshop Mystery by Alice Kimberley, The Ghost and the Femme Fatale:

Haunted by her past...

The Movie Town Theater is holding its first ever Film Noir Festival, with Penelope Thornton-McClure handling book sales for the guest speakers, including screen actress Hedda Geist. The legendary femme fatale has been out of the spotlight for decades. Unfortunately, the moment she steps back into it, she's nearly killed. Then other guests start to die, and Penelope wants to know why her little town's film noir weekend has taken a truly dark turn.

With local police on the wrong track, Penelope enlists the help of Jack Shepard, PI. Okay, so Jack hasn't had a heartbeat since 1949, when he was gunned down in what is now Pen's store. But the hard-boiled ghost actually remembers Hedda's dark past and Penelope is sure he can help solve this case--even if he and his license did expire more than fifty years ago.

The reason I come back to this series for more is Jack, the ghost. I love his character. He has a great sense of humor, a comedic flare and the banter between Jack and Pen is hilarious. I love the way that Pen tries to bring up to speed with the twenty-first century, and the way Jack tries to "doll" Pen up. And I just love the way that Jack takes Pen back to his time through her dreams. The usual "helpers" are in the story, we see alot of Seymour and Brainert, but not too much of Spencer, Pen's son, which I found strange. I like the kid and his fascination with old mysteries, especially P.I.'s. And one of the town's favorite business owner has had enough of the evil councilwoman.

But getting to the crime(s), I didn't figure out. Surprising, I thought all along that it had been Hedda, or even Dr. Pepper (yes, that's his name!), but no way did I think it was who it was. It was interesting how the author intertwined the crime that Pen was investigating with the one Jack was investigating back in 1948.

Needless to say I enjoyed this book. It was a wonderfully written cosy mystery, and I can tell you that I'll be coming back for more.

The Ghost and the Femme Fatale by Alice Kimberley (4.5/5) Contemporary Mystery; Paranormal: Ghost; Published: Berkley Prime Crime (6/08); Series: # 4, A Haunted Bookshop Mystery; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (17); 2009 Support Your Local Library (13);

Dawnkeepers

I had this book on my nightstand for over two weeks. I wanted to read it as soon as possible but every time I picked it up to start, I would set it down. My problem, was that I loved, absolutely loved the first novel of The Final Prophecy series, Nightkeepers, and I was having second thoughts about the second book, Dawnkeepers. Would it be just as good as the previous book? Or would I end up feeling like it was a waste of my time?

Here's the blurb for Dawnkeepers by Jessica Andersen:

The countdown to the end of days has begun. According ancient prophecy, on December 21, 2012. Mayan demons from the underworld will trigger an apocalypse. Only the Nightkeepers, mortal descendants of a race of magic-wielding-warrior-priests, can prevent the annihilation of all mankind

Nate Blackhawk can't help but resent the demands of his bloodline. Unlike his fellow Nightkeepers, he isn't about to let the gods determine his destiny - especially when it comes to love. Which means he refuses to submit to the unquenchable desire he feels for Alexis Gray, the shockingly beautiful trainee who first appeared in his visions. But that's easier said than done, considering that Nate needs Alexis's help in uncovering the seven Mayan artifacts inscribed with clues on how to defeat the demons.

Alexis is willing to do whatever is necessary to prove herself as a Nightkeeper. She believes in the life she was born into and the future the gods have written for her - even when it comes to Nate, who seems intent on ignoring the intense passion between them. But as she and Nate test their powers in a race to recover the seven statuettes before the demons do, Alexis finds it impossible to deny her feelings for the one man who's destined to be hers.

Let me start by saying that it was not a waste of time reading this book. I enjoyed it. Now, that being said, I didn't think it was as good as the first book. But from experience, seconds books never are.

The beginning of the book had an action/adventure feel to it, and that got me hooked. I was so enthralled with it that I read uninterrupted for several hours. The setting was amazing (as usual), the characters are believable (their feelings) and likable (well, some of them at least), the rituals and beliefs were interesting and gripping and they kept me turning the pages.

The main characters, Nate and Alexis, were good, I liked the way Nate grew to understand his feelings towards the Nightkeepers, his family and eventually his feelings for Alexis. Alexis on the other hand, I didn't care too much for her, a romantic lead. She had this need to be as powerful, as needed, and respected as her mother was previously, her winikin Izzy really got on my nerves, always pushing her, and manipulating her (in my opinion). Anyway back to romance, I didn't think it was there, well, at least not like the first book. The chemistry/lust was there but the little things that would make this a "romance" wasn't there in my opinion.

I also think that I might have been more interested on what was going on with the rest of the Nightkeepers. Rabbit, still dealing with the death of his father, and understanding and experiencing his gifts. Anna, basically being forced to come home and help, even it's the last place that she wants to be. Lucius, his curiosity got the better of him, so now he's enslaved and possessed by evil magic. And the search for missing Sasha continues...I'm sure they'll find her next book.

Speaking of which, Skykeepers, will be released in the summer.

Dawnkeepers by Jessica Andersen (4/5) Paranormal Romance; Mayan Mythology; Published: Signet Eclipse (January 2009); Series: # 2, The Final Prophecy; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (16); 2009 Support Your Local Library (12); 2009 Pub Challenge (2);

Looking for Anne

I am a huge fan of Anne of Green Gables, I have read the book many many times, and each time I discover something new. As much as I love Anne and her books, I didn't know much about the author, L.M. Montgomery. I knew she was Canadian, from Prince Edward Island, and that she was married to a pastor, and later lived in Toronto. When I saw Looking for Anne: How Lucy Maud Montgomery Dreamed Up a Literary Classic on the staff recommendations shelf at the library, I couldn't resist adding it to my bag.

I'm not a huge fan of biographies. Let me rephrase that,I enjoy them but most of the biographies that I've read have bored me to tears. The difference of this biography is that is somewhat a dual one, it's about Anne and Maud. The character and her creator. How Anne came about. What made Maud write about an red headed orphan girl?

I'm surprised that I read it so quickly. I read it in two days, with biographies I can go on for week struggling along. But I found the way the author set out her information, even if it's all theory, because we really don't know what was going through Lucy Maud Montgomery's mind. It definitely shows that the author went to great lengths to get previously unknown information on the author.

I was also surprised on finding out certain things about Maud, some are understandable and others just seem far-fetched. But the traits that make sense are shyness; her need to be loved and accepted; feeling more comfortable with women then with men; her feeling of abandonment (her mother died when she was very young, and her father left her with her maternal grandparents); her ability to "live" in her dream world; her need for independence. I won't go into detail on the far-fetched ideas, because you really need to read this book.

Now that this book has wet my appepite for Lucy Maud Montgomery I'll be looking out for more on this author, and maybe I'll just re-read the series again.

Looking for Anne: How Lucy Maud Montgomery Dreamed Up a Literary Classic by Irene Gammel (4/5) Biography/Cultural History; Published: Key Porter Book (2008); New Author; Canadian Author; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (15); 2009 Support Your Local Library (11);

Salvation In Death

I love visiting old friends. But visiting Roarke, Eve and gang is a special treat.

Here's the blurb for Salvation In Death by J.D. Robb:

In the year 2060, sophisticated investigative tools can help catch a killer. But there are some questions even the most advanced technologies cannot answer...

When Detective Lieutenant Eve Dallas confirms that the consecrated wine contained potassium cyanide, she’s determined to solve the murder of Father Miguel Flores, despite her discomfort with her surroundings. It’s not the bodegas and pawnshops of East Harlem that bother her, though the neighborhood is a long way from the stone mansion she shares with her billionaire husband, Roarke. It’s all that holiness flying around at St. Christobal’s that makes her uneasy.

A search of the victim’s sparsely furnished room reveals little— except for a carefully hidden religious medal with a mysterious inscription, and a couple of underlined Bible passages. The autopsy reveals more: faint scars of knife wounds, a removed tattoo—and evidence of plastic surgery, suggesting that “Father Flores” may not have been the man his parishioners had thought. Now, as Eve pieces together clues that hint at gang connections and a deeply personal act of revenge, she believes she’s making progress on the case. Until a second murder—in front of an even larger crowd of worshippers—knocks the whole investigation sideways. And Eve is left to figure out who committed these unholy acts—and why.

I know when I pick up a JD Robb book I will be entertained. And this book didn't disappoint.

The usual characters were all there, but mostly down-played, what really took centre stage was the crime, the need to discover who/where/why really ruled the book. I admit I missed some of the usual moments, Sommerset and Eve's banter, Nadine's need to get info first no matter what, Eve and Feeny's friendship, Dr. Mira's counseling, but the book was so fast paced that it didn't need all the fillers. And some of the characters introduced in this book were very interesting, especially Father Lopez. And I'm hoping that we'll see him in future books.

The issue of a layman impersonating a Catholic priest caught my attention, and I was hoping that Lino did it for the right reasons (even it's so wrong), but throughout Eve's investigation I was floored to know that he did it for selfish reasons. That he wasn't making up for the wrongs that he once did, it was just one big con. I also thought it was poetic justice in the end for both Lino and Penny.

After 29 full length novels with Eve Dallas, I wonder what the author can give us next. Good thing I don't have to wait too long, Promises In Death will be out next. I can't wait to get my hands on it.

Salvation In Death by J.D. Robb (4.5/5) Romantic Suspense; Alternate Future; Published: G.P. Putnam's Sons (08); Series: # 29, Eve Dallas; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (13); 2009 Support Your Local Library Challenge (10);

The Mistress Diaries

He told me he would treat my heart with great care. He was lying, of course, for it was all a very clever, skillful seduction...

The night I met Lord Vincent Sinclair, son of the Duke of Pembroke, was the night I lost control. I never imagines that I, Cassandra Montrose could engage in such wicked, wanton behavior with a man I hardly knew. But in that fateful moment, alone in his coach, the passion I felt for him was undeniable, even though I knew after my surrender, I was unlikely to ever see my lover again.

Until a fateful secret brought me to his door...

I always believed my pride would prevent me from becoming any man's mistress - especially a rogue like Vincent, who cares for nothing but his inheritance. Yet I have a very good reason to remain in Vincent's life. If only he did not tempt me so...

I enjoyed the story, but something was lacking in my opinion. I'm a huge fan of Julianne MacLean's, I remember reading To Marry The Duke and falling instantly in love with both the main characters, and wanting them to "live happily ever after". I know that it doesn't always happen but I was so expecting it with this book. The previous books haven't been up to snuff to certain readers, and some of those books I've enjoyed, and others that I haven't. But I still haven't found that spark that I found with To Marry The Duke.

I found that the book revolved more around the hero, Vincent. Cassandra seemed more of a secondary character. I found their friendship very believable but their love wasn't so, they lacked chemistry. That spark that I mentioned before, just wasn't there for them. I really wanted them to have it. I liked Vincent, he was proud of his rakeness (is that even a word?), he was always upfront with this emotions or lack thereof. Cassandra I found boring.

There were two characters that I really enjoyed. The first was the Duke, let's just say he suffers from illusions, yep, he's crazy, he does have his lucid moments. But he had a kind of comic relief for me. The other, was Letitia, she's spoiled, self centered, cruel and manipulative. I loved her! She was a wonderful villain.

The Mistress Diaries by Julianne MacLean (3.5/5) Historical Romance; Published: Avon (8/08); Series: # 2, Pembroke Palace; 2009 100 + Reading Challenge (12); 2009 Support Your Local Library (8);