[Review]: Urban Enemies- Anthology Edited by Joseph Nassise

Title: Urban Enemies
Author: Jim Butcher, Kelley Armstrong, Jeff Somers, Craig Schaefer, Lilith Saintcrow, Kevin Hearne, Caitlin Kittredge, Joseph Nassise, Carrie Vaughn, Jonathan Maberry, Faith Hunter, Jon E. Merz, Diana Pharaoh Francis, Steven Savile, Seanan McGuire and Sam Witt
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Anthology
Release Date: August 1, 2017

I received the book from Simon & Schuster, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  Villains have all the fun—everyone knows that—and this anthology takes you on a wild ride through the dark side! The top villains from sixteen urban fantasy series get their own stories—including the baddies of New York Times bestselling authors Jim Butcher, Kevin Hearne, Kelley Armstrong, Seanan McGuire, and Jonathan Maberry.

For every hero trying to save the world, there’s a villain trying to tear it all down.

In this can’t-miss anthology edited by Joseph Nassise (The Templar Chronicles), you get to plot world domination with the best of the evildoers we love to hate! This outstanding collection brings you stories told from the villains’ point of view, imparting a fresh and unique take on the evil masterminds, wicked witches, and infernal personalities that skulk in the pages of today’s most popular series.

The full anthology features stories by Jim Butcher (the Dresden Files), Kelley Armstrong (the Cainsville and Otherworld series), Seanan McGuire (October Daye), Kevin Hearne (The Iron Druid Chronicles), Jonathan Maberry (Joe Ledger), Lilith Saintcrow (Jill Kismet), Carrie Vaughn (Kitty Norville), Joseph Nassise (Templar Chronicles), C.E. Murphy (Walker Papers), Steven Savile (Glasstown), Caitlin Kittredge (the Hellhound Chronicles and the Black London series), Jeffrey Somers (The Ustari Cycle), Sam Witt (Pitchfork County), Craig Schaefer (Daniel Faust), Jon F. Merz (Lawson Vampire), Faith Hunter (Jane Yellowrock), and Diana Pharaoh Francis (Horngate Witches).

Thoughts: I loved it. Reading the stories actually made me miss the main characters of the series. This is a pretty perfect anthology, many amazing storytellers.

The Naughtiest Cherub- Kevin Hearne
This is part of Iron Druid Chronicles and takes place after Book 8, Staked. Loki visits Lucifer to ask for help. I love this series and really enjoyed this one.  For some reason I found the this idea funny.  The God of Mischief and the Lord of Hell meeting, Loki must be pretty desperate.

Even Hand- Jim Butcher
This story features John Marcone from The Dresden Files. Since Marcone wants to kill Harry, he's not one of my favorite characters. That being said this was still an enjoyable story. It felt a bit different compared to the other Dresden short stories.

Bellum Romanum- Carrie Vaughn
It's been a while since I read the Kitty Norville series, Though I do recall Roman/Gaius Albinus. He is very old and quite the evil charmer. I loved this one as well. Intriguing read, but then again most the Kitty's world is.

Score: 4 Stars

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

[Review]: The Drafter by Kim Harrison

Title: The Drafter
Author: Kim Harrison
Series: The Peri Reed Chronicles
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Science Fiction
Release Date: September 1, 2015

I received this book from Simon & Schuster, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  Detroit 2030. Double-crossed by the person she loved and betrayed by the covert government organization that trained her to use her body as a weapon, Peri Reed is a renegade on the run. Don’t forgive and never forget has always been Peri’s creed. But her day job makes it difficult: she is a drafter, possessed of a rare, invaluable skill for altering time, yet destined to forget both the history she changed and the history she rewrote.

When Peri discovers her name is on a list of corrupt operatives, she realizes that her own life has been manipulated by the agency. Her memory of the previous three years erased, she joins forces with a mysterious rogue soldier in a deadly race to piece together the truth about her fateful final task. Her motto has always been only to kill those who kill her first. But with nothing but intuition to guide her, will she have to break her own rule to survive?

Thoughts: Great Read!  This thing that Peri is/does... Drafting in a way is a sad thing. To lose memories and time is violating, your heart goes out to her.  But despite all that Peri is a kick ass character that I just love. The Drafter is unique, fast paced and action that keeps you turning the page. I love the futuristic setting. I think fans who loved Harrison's Rachel Morgan series,  will love Peri Reed. I wasn't sure at first, but after a couple chapters I was hooked.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://kimharrison.net/

The Peri Reed Chronicles:
Sideswiped
The Drafter
Waylaid (featuring Rachel Morgan)
The Operator- November 22, 2016

[ARC Review]: Waylaid by Kim Harrison

Title: Waylaid
Author: Kim Harrison
Series: Hollows/Drafter crossover
Genre: Urban Fantasy/Science Fiction
Release Date: April 4, 2016

I received this book from Simon & Schuster, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  Worlds collide when Rachel Morgan of The Hollows meets Peri Reed of The Drafter in this exciting new short story from #1 New York Times bestselling author Kim Harrison.

The magic of the Hollows runs full force into the technological sophistication of The Drafter when a device capable of carrying a city’s data stream pulls Rachel, the bounty hunter witch of the Hollows, between realities, marooning her in a world where the supernatural holds no sway.

To get Rachel and Jenks home, Peri, the dangerous renegade of 2030, must decide what will chart her future: her blind trust in those who grant her power, or her intuition telling her to believe.

Thoughts: I haven't read Peri Reed's story in The Drafter, but love the Rachel Morgan books. I was excited to see there was gonna be a crossover story.  Excellent read. Peri & Rachel are quite different, but it was interesting to see them interact. I loved the story, a fast fun read. I would love to see Peri come visit Rachel in her world, that be be a trip.  Reading this novella makes me want to know more about Peri and her world. Definitely a must read for fans of both series.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://kimharrison.net/

Peri Reed Series:
The Drafter
The Operator

Rachel Morgan Series:
Dead Witch Walking
The Good, the Bad and the Undead
Every Which Way But Dead
A Fistful of Charms
For a Few Demons More
The Outlaw Demon Wails
White Witch, Black Curse
Black Magic Sanction
Pale Demon
A Perfect Blood
Ever After
The Undead Pool

Spotlight: 9mm Blues by Keith Melton

9mm Blues
Thorn Knight #1
By: Keith Melton

Out Now!

Flesh-eating ghouls. A kidnapped child. A knight's honor caught in the crossfire...

Christopher Hill is a knight in the Order of the Thorn—the sacred order of soldiers armed with submachine guns, swords, and magic. Their mission is simple: destroy the ancient, profane evils that prey upon humanity.

But that mission becomes far more complicated when a young boy is kidnapped by flesh-eating ghouls, turning a routine search-and-destroy mission into a nightmare standoff. Barricaded inside a run-down house, the ghouls gain a deadly upper hand, and while the body count rises, Hill finds himself caught in a power struggle within the order that puts his life, and his honor, at risk, and threatens both the mission and the boy Hill has vowed to see home safe, no matter what... 

Available at Amazon

Author Links:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

[Review]: Day Shift by Charlaine Harris

Title: Day Shift
Author: Charlaine Harris
Genre: Mystery/Urban Fantasy
Release Date: May 5, 2015

Summary:  There is no such thing as bad publicity, except in Midnight, Texas, where the residents like to keep to themselves. Even in a town full of secretive people, Olivia Charity is an enigma. She lives with the vampire Lemuel, but no one knows what she does; they only know that she’s beautiful and dangerous.

Psychic Manfred Bernardo finds out just how dangerous when he goes on a working weekend to Dallas and sees Olivia there with a couple who are both found dead the next day. To make matters worse, one of Manfred’s regular—and very wealthy—clients dies during a reading.

Manfred returns from Dallas embroiled in scandal and hounded by the press. He turns to Olivia for help; somehow he knows that the mysterious Olivia can get things back to normal. As normal as things get in Midnight…

Thoughts:  Excellent Read! I loved the first book, so I was eager to jump into this one. Of course Ms. Harris doesn't disappoint. She has created another great group of interesting and diverse characters. In this installment the reader learns more about each of the residents of Midnight. I feel there is a lot more to learn about these characters so I can't wait to read the next book. Fans of Charlaine Harris will be happy to know there are a couple familiar faces from the Sookie Stackhouse-verse. Day Shift is an exciting read with a great mystery to piece together.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://charlaineharris.com/


Midnight, Texas:
Midnight Crossroad
Day Shift
Night Shift - 2016

[Review]: Red Dogs by Keith Melton

Title: Red Dogs
Series: Zero Dog Mission
Author: Keith Melton
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: February 3, 2015
Purchase Links: Amazon | BN

I received this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  Mercenary pyromancer Andrea Walker has just saved the world from bloodthirsty hagworms and is late for her Valentine's date with Jake. Until she hears that Jake has already left her house...with her...

Thoughts: I loved this one. My first valentine themed story. Andrea Walker  is one kick-ass heroine, even when she's taking down herself. I love reading about her. Red Dogs is a fast, fun read.  Excellent valentine's story. Unique, filled with great action. For those wondering, this book can be read as a stand alone. Although I do recommend reading the previous books in the series. Andrea and her team are great.

Red Dogs is featured in the anthology Valentine Heat I, which also features stories by Ally Shields, Nessie Strange and C.L. Bledsoe.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: https://keithmelton.wordpress.com/

Zero Dog Missions:
Zero Dog War
Dark Ride Dogs
Red Dogs

[Review]: Dog with a Bone by Hailey Edwards

Title: Dog with a Bone
Series: Black Dog
Author: Hailey Edwards
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: October 31, 2014

I received this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  Half-bloods with Thierry’s skill set are given two options. They can join the conclave’s marshal program, or they can pack their bags. Turn down the job offer, and you’ve just shredded your residency pass for the mortal realm and booked yourself a one-way ticket to Faerie.

Texas is the only home Thierry has ever known, and she’s not going anywhere. Even if it means following in her notorious father’s footsteps as a peacekeeper. But pinning on the badge opens her eyes to the fact sometimes fae need protection too, and that sometimes humans are the real monsters.

Thoughts: Thierry is a half-blood fae, who calls Texas home. Being a half-blood she either can join the marshal program or back to Faerie she will go. No way is Thierry leaving Texas so she becomes a peacekeeper and learns some hard truths along the way.

Good read! Thierry is a fun character to read. Shaw and Thierry have a interesting partnership. They are good together. I look forward to reading more about their growing relationship.  I can easily tire of fae stories, but Dog with a  Bone was different and refreshing. A fast read but, action filled. Ms Edwards has a way of grabbing the reader and throws them right into her worlds. I love it.

Score: 3 Stars

Author Website: http://haileyedwards.net/

Upcoming Releases:
A Veil of Secrets (Araneae Nation #5) - December 30, 2014
Heir of the Dog (Black Dog #2) - January 30, 2015

Other Series by Hailey Edwards:
Araneae Nation
Daughters of Askara

[Review]: Premonitions by Jamie Schultz

Title: Premonitions
Author: Jamie Schultz
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: July 1, 2014

I received this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  It’s the kind of score Karyn Ames has always dreamed of—enough to set her crew up pretty well and, more important, enough to keep her safely stocked on a very rare, very expensive black market drug. Without it, Karyn hallucinates slices of the future until they totally overwhelm her, leaving her unable to distinguish the present from the mess of certainties and possibilities yet to come.

The client behind the heist is Enoch Sobell, a notorious crime lord with a reputation for being ruthless and exacting—and a purported practitioner of dark magic. Sobell is almost certainly condemned to Hell for a magically extended lifetime full of shady dealings. Once you’re in business with him, there’s no backing out.

Karyn and her associates are used to the supernatural and the occult, but their target is more than just the usual family heirloom or cursed necklace. It’s a piece of something larger. Something sinister.

Karyn’s crew and even Sobell himself are about to find out just how powerful it is… and how powerful it may yet become.

Thoughts: Exciting read! I hadn't heard of Premonitions until the author emailed me, but I'm glad I decided to read it. I really enjoyed the crew, especially Anna (and not just because we share a name), she's a great character. I actually liked Anna more than the main character Karyn. Premonitions is dark and gritty. A mixture of suspense and fantasy.  The heists will have you on the edge of your seat. Set in Los Angeles, made for a nice change of scenery.  I think urban fantasy fans will loved this one.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://www.jamieschultz.net/

Upcoming titles:
Splintered - July 2015

[Review]: Midnight Crossroad by Charlaine Harris

Title: Midnight Crossroad
Author: Charlaine Harris
Series: Midnight, Texas
Genre: Mystery/Urban Fantasy
Release Date: May 6, 2014

Summary:  Welcome to Midnight, Texas a town with many boarded-up windows and few full-time inhabitants, located at the crossing of Witch Light Road and the Davy highway. It's pretty standard dried-up western town.

There's a pawnshop (someone who lives in the basement is seen only at night). There's a diner (people who are just passing through tend not to linger). And there's a new resident Manfred Bernardo, who thinks he's found the perfect place to work in private (and who has secrets of his own).

Stop at the one traffic light in town, and everything looks normal. Stay awhile, and learn the truth...

Thoughts: Manfred Bernardo is the newest resident of Midnight, Texas. He settles in easily and makes friends with the other residents. At first it seems like an ordinary little town, but Manfred soon learns that Midnight has it share a dark secrets.

I was excited to hear that there was a new series coming from Ms. Harris. I'm so glad I picked it up. It was an excellent read for me. Set in a small town, with curious cast of residents. New characters are introduced, plus some familiar faces that appear/mentioned  from the Harper Connelly series, the Lily Bard Series and even the Aurora Teagarden series.  Midnight Crossroad is fantastic read filled with mystery and intrigue. This is a first in a trilogy and I can't wait to go back to visit Midnight again. If you are a fan of previous series from Charlaine Harris, you won't want miss this one.

Score: 5 Stars

Author Website: http://charlaineharris.com/

Other series:
Sookie Stackhouse
Harper Connelly
Lily Bard
Aurora Teagarden

[Review]: Dark Ride Dogs by Keith Melton

Title: Dark Ride Dogs
Author: Keith Melton
Series: Zero Dog Missions
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: May 2, 2014

I received this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  Death prophecies, ghost clowns, homicidal redcaps…this town has really gone to the dogs.
Zero Dog mercenary Andrea Walker used to love fortune cookies—until the day she received a death prophecy inside one. Of course, believing a mass produced fortune from a baked good would be insane—until a berserker shows up on her doorstep claiming he’s been sent by an infamous oracle to save her life. She must hire him or die.

Hell really breaks loose when the Zero Dogs are contracted to stop a ghost-summoning goblin’s plan to bring his Eternal Malevolence Carnival and Incredible Show of Evil to Portland, starring a company of ghost performers—clowns, acrobats, and nefarious balloon-twisting mimes. Meanwhile, Andrea’s normally shy succubus friend seems to be falling for the mysterious berserker. Too bad a malfunctioning charm spell has the redcap goblin yearning for her as well.

Now Andrea must elude a death prophecy, discover if her new-hire berserker can be trusted, and avert the looming ghost clown apocalypse. Just another mad mission for the Zero Dogs.

Thoughts: Great read! It had been quite a while since I read the first book, (The Zero Dog Wars) but I was able to jump right back in and catch up with the gang. From page one you are pulled into the high-octane action. I loved it. It was fun revisiting all the different characters. It has something for everyone. The group is made up of a succubus, vampire, werewolf, magic users, demon, empath and leading the pack is pyromancer Andrea Walker. Dark Ride Dogs is a fast paced, gitty and exciting read. I recommend this one, especially if you love Urban Fantasy.

Dark Ride Dogs can be read as a stand along story. 

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://keithmelton.wordpress.com/

Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

Titles by Keith Melton:
Blood Vice (Nightfall Syndicate #1)
Ghost Soldiers (Nightfall Syndicate #2)
Run, Wolf (Nightfall Wolf Clans #1)
The Zero Dog War (Zero Dog Missions #1)
Dark Ride Dogs (Zero Dog Missions #2)
9mm Blues

[Review]: Beach Blanket Bloodbath by Mark Henry

Title: Beach Blanket Bloodbath
Author: Mark Henry
Series: Amanda Feral
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: April 7, 2014

I received this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  After a few years away from the Urban Fantasy genre, the dark and dementedly funny Mark Henry is back with the first installment in a new trilogy of hilariously gruesome novellas featuring everyone's favorite undead socialite, Amanda Feral.

In Beach Blanket Bloodbath, Amanda, Wendy and Gil descend on an idyllic seaside village for some rest, relaxation and consumption of cute coastal townsfolk but their plans are derailed when they become embroiled in a mystery at the Miss Sand Flea Pageant involving overtly perky go-go dancers, the inevitable wereshark attack and an annoying octogenarian sleuth/writer.

Thoughts: Amanda Feral is back! With her friends by her side, she is headed to the beach. Not really a hot spot for zombies, But then Amanda isn't your average zombie.  An excellent installment to the series. So, glad to see Amanda is back. Beach Blanket Bloodbath is a fast, fun read. Mark Henry is one the most unique writers I've come across. His stories always have wonderful mix of gore, mayhem and humor. I recommend this one, and the whole series really.

Score: 4 Stars

Purchase Link:
Amazon

Author Website:
http://burlesqueofthedamned.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/glamazombies

Amanda Feral Series:
Happy Hour of the Damned
Road Trip of the Living Dead
Battle of the Network Zombies
Beach Blanket Bloodbath
A Night to Dismember TBA


Other titles:
Vermillion (as Daniel Marks in Kiss Me Deadly)
Seafoam
The Sweeter the Juice (featured in Carniepunk)
Velveteen (as Daniel Marks)
Parts & Wreck

[Review] - Kitty in the Underworld by Carrie Vaughn

Title: Kitty in the Underworld
Author: Carrie Vaughn
Series: Kitty Norville
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: July 30, 2013

I received this book from Tor/Forge, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  As Denver adjusts to a new master vampire, Kitty gets word of an intruder in the Denver werewolf pack’s territory, and she investigates the challenge to her authority. She follows the scent of the lycanthrope through the mountains where she is lured into a trap, tranquilized, and captured.

When she wakes up, she finds herself in a defunct silver mine: the perfect cage for a werewolf. Her captors are a mysterious cult seeking to induct Kitty into their ranks in a ritual they hope will put an end to Dux Bellorum. Though skeptical of their power, even Kitty finds herself struggling to resist joining their cause. Whatever she decides, they expect Kitty to join them in their plot . . . willingly or otherwise

Thoughts: Kitty Norville doesn't necessarily go looking for trouble. But whether she's at home in Denver or traveling, trouble always seems to finds her. This time she is kidnapped and held underground.  Her captures believe she is the Regina Luporm and that she will put an end to the evil vampire Roman.

Trouble does find Kitty and it's not the worst she's been in, but its bad and a bit traumatic. Ms. Vaughn never fails to draw me into Kitty's world with humor and intense situations. Kitty in the Underworld was an engaging story filled with action and suspense. I really liked new character Samira, I hope we get to see more of her. The one thing that frustrates me is the storyline of vampire Roman. It's getting old, kill him already!  That was the only con for me, other wise it was a good read.

Score: 3 Stars

Author Website: http://www.carrievaughn.com/

Kitty Norville series:
Kitty and The Midnight Hour
Kitty Goes to Washington
Kitty Takes A Holiday
Kitty and the Silver Bullet
Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand
Kitty Raises Hell
Kitty's House of Horrors
Kitty Goes to War
Kitty's Big Trouble
Kitty's Greatest Hits (short stories)
Kitty Steals the Show
Kitty Rocks the House
Kitty in the Underworld

[Review] - Hearts of Shadow by Kira Brady

Title: Hearts of Shadow
Author: Kira Brady
Series: Deadglass
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Release Date: May 7, 2013

I received this book from Kensington Books, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary: Grace Mercer's unmatched wraith-killing ability made her the unofficial defender of a city shattered by supernatural catastrophe. So there's no way she'll allow the new regent of Seattle's most powerful dragon shifter clan to "protect" her from a vicious evil stalking the ruined streets --and keep her from the freedom she's risked everything to earn.

Leif's science-honed instincts tell him Grace is the key to keeping shifters and humans safe. But helping this wary fighter channel her untapped power is burning away the dragon's sensual self-control and putting a crucial alliance at risk. Soon the only chance Leif and Grace will have to save their world will be a dangerously fragile link that could forever unite their souls. . .or consume all in a storm of destruction. 

Thoughts: Grace Mercer is special. She has an ability that kills wraiths. An ability that comes in handy to protect her city. Dragon shifter Leif senses how special Grace really is and will do anything to protector her, even while having to save the world.

Hearts of Shadow is an excellent read that will have you on the edge of your seat. Grace & Leif make a great pair.  Loved all the Norse mythology. I especially enjoyed dragon shifter Leif. Sexy!! It's a real shame he is just fiction.  Full of paranormal delights in this gritty setting. Ms. Brady has written an exciting follow up to Hearts of Darkness, you won't want to miss this one.

***For those who don't have an ereader will be happy to know the prequel to this series (Hearts of Fire) is available in this paperback as a bonus novella.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://blog.kirabrady.com/

Deadglass
Hearts of Fire (novella)
Hearts of Darkness
Hearts of Shadow
Hearts of Chaos - February 2014

[ARC Review] - Rogue Descendant by Jenna Black

Title: Rogue Descendant
Author: Jenna Black
Series: Nikki  Glass
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: April 30, 2013

I received this book from Simon & Schuster, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  No longer the leader of the Olympians, Konstantin has now gone into hiding. Konstantin is vulnerable, and Anderson believes now is the perfect time to destroy his nemesis. He orders private eye Nikki Glass to use her powers to locate Konstantin, and she balks at the idea until a series of attacks leads her to believe that Konstantin is gunning for her and Anderson instead of remaining safely in hiding.

Nikki’s search is complicated by Cyrus—Konstantin’s son and the new leader of the Olympians—who threatens retribution should his father be killed. The complications mount up as Nikki begins to suspect that Konstantin might not be behind the attacks after all. The only person who hates Konstantin more than Anderson does is Anderson’s estranged wife, Emma, who has joined the Olympians. And Nikki knows Emma would be more than happy if Anderson and his people embroil themselves in an all-out war against the Olympians—a war they cannot hope to win.

As Nikki tries to figure out who the true enemy is, she deals with her tumultuous relationship with Jamaal, who struggles to control his death magic. But being loved by a descendant of a death goddess is the least of Nikki’s worries…

Thoughts: The time to strike is now.  Konstantin is no longer leading the Olympians and is in hiding.  Anderson is urging Nikki to use her descendant powers to track down Konstantin. But she knows it will be a revenge killing and that tastes bad in her mouth, but when there are strikes made against her and those she loves, she knows that she needs to take action and end this once and for all.

I love this series! Each book that comes out keeps getting better and better.  Jenna Black's writing is wonderful. She has ensnared me with vampires, fae and now descendants of gods and goddesses.  Rogue Descendant is a great addition to this series. I love the fast pace of the story and the different mythologies. I really enjoy the relationship between Nikki and Jamal, but have to say Jamal has some major issues that makes him quite frustrating at times.  I highly recommend this one. If you love mythology, this is definitely a must read.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://www.jennablack.com/

Nikki Glass series:
Dark Descendant
Deadly Descendant
Pros and Cons (enovella)
Rogue Descendant

Upcoming Releases:
Replica - July 16, 2013

[Review] - Sharp by Alex Hughes

Title: Sharp
Author: Alex Hughes
Series: Mindspace Investigations
Genre: Science Fiction/Urban Fantasy
Release Date: April 2, 2013

I receive this book from Roc, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  HISTORY HAS A WAY OF REPEATING ITSELF, EVEN FOR TELEPATHS.…

As a Level Eight telepath, I am the best police interrogator in the department. But I’m not a cop—I never will be—and my only friend on the force, Homicide Detective Isabella Cherabino, is avoiding me because of a telepathic link I created by accident.

And I might not even be an interrogator for much longer. Our boss says unless I pull out a miracle, I’ll be gone before Christmas. I need this job, damn it. It’s the only thing keeping me sane.

Parts for illegal Tech—the same parts used to bring the world to its knees in the Tech Wars sixty years ago—are being hijacked all over the city. Plus Cherbino’s longtime nemesis, a cop killer, has resurfaced with a vengeance. If I can stay alive long enough, I just might be able to prove my worth, once and for all…

Thoughts: Good read! A great installment to the series. Alex Hughes has a fascinating writing voice. Lead character Adam is just plain fun to read about. Still not a fan of Cherabino's, but she is growing on me. Sharp is a thrilling read. Intense, dark and suspenseful. The world building is pretty amazing. I wouldn't want to live in Adam's world, but it's definitely an interesting place to visit.  I love the mixture of science fiction and crime scene stories.  If you are reading Jim Butcher and Kevin Hearne you'll love Alex Hughes too.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://www.ahugheswriter.com/

Mindspace Investigations:
Clean
Payoff (enovella)
Sharp

[Review] - Kitty Rocks the House by Carrie Vaughn

Title: Kitty Rocks the House
Author: Carrie Vaughn
Series: Kitty Norville
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: March 26, 2013

I received this from Tor/Forge, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary: On the heels of Kitty's return from London, a new werewolf shows up in Denver, one who threatens to split the pack by challenging Kitty's authority at every turn. The timing could not be worse; Kitty needs all the allies she can muster to go against the ancient vampire, Roman, if she's to have any hope of defeating his Long Game. But there's more to this intruder than there seems, and Kitty must uncover the truth, fast.

Meanwhile, Cormac pursues an unknown entity wreaking havoc across Denver; and a vampire from the Order of St. Lazaurus tempts Rick with the means to transform his life forever.

Thoughts: Kitty is back from London and she is quickly getting back into her normal routine. It isn't long before werewolf Darren strolls into town looking to join the pack. Plus Master Vampire of Denver, Rick starts acting weird after meeting with a strange vampire.  If they are to defeat Roman, they need all the help they can get. But as each day goes by things for Kitty get more chaotic.

Excellent story! I liked seeing Kitty back home in Denver. Kitty Rocks the House is a riveting read, with humor and fast action which makes the writing flow.  Ms. Vaughn out does herself with every book. I can't wait to see what is next for Kitty & the gang.  If you are a fan of Urban Fantasy and not reading this series, you really are missing out on some great stories.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://www.carrievaughn.com/

Kitty Norville series:
Kitty and the Midnight Hour
Kitty Goes to Washington
Kitty Takes a Holiday
Kitty and the Silver Bullet
Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand
Kitty Raises Hell
Kitty's House of Horrors
Kitty Goes to War
Kitty's Big Trouble
Kitty's Greatest Hits (short stories)
Kitty Steals the Show
Kitty Rocks the House
Kitty in the Underworld - July 30, 2013

[Review] - Crimson Flames by Ashley Robertson

Title: Crimson Flames
Author: Ashley Robertson
Series: Crimson
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: February 22, 2013

I received this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  Half-vampire Abby Tate is determined to learn more about the sorceress powers that were awakened inside her when she was turned into a vampire—making her a whole new hybrid species. There’s a group of rogue vamps banding together and forming a Resistance against the vampire governing body, The Head Council, and Abby’s newly discovered powers are the key to the Council’s victory.

Now the Resistance will do anything possible to remove the hybrid threat, and with no other options, Abby is forced to rely on the aid of the Council, yet can she trust the very vampires that hunt for her human lover? And even worse, can she fight the unwelcome attraction that’s growing between her and one of those ancient vampire rulers?

Thoughts: It's been two months since the vampire, Bronx kidnapped and turned Abby Tate. She is now an hybrid vampire and eager to learn about her  sorceress bloodline. But she encounters complications, like the head council and the resistance who would love nothing more than to destroy her.  She loathes putting trust in the council, but it's her only option. Plus, if they can really reunite her with her real mother she believes the risk will be worth it.

Excellent read!  Robertson has written a stellar follow up to book one, Crimson Groves. The story had a darkness to it that makes for an exciting change of pace.  Crimson Flames has a great energy to it and it's wonderfully paced. With intense, sensual scenes.  I loved both Tristan and Stone, Trace as well. The sexiness just rolls off of them. It's a miracle that Abby even remembers her human lover with them around. If you're looking for a bloody good vampire story, then you should check this one out.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://ashleyrobertsonbooks.com/

Books by Ashley Robertson:
Crimson Groves
UnGuarded
Crimson Flames

[Review] - Wicked Circle by Linda Robertson

Title: Wicked Circle
Author: Linda Robertson
Series: Persephone Alcmedi
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: December 27, 2011

I received this book from Simon & Schuster, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:  Is a little time alone with the man you love too much to ask?

Well, it may be—when you’re Persephone Alcmedi, Lustrata of the witches, and your lover is Domn Lup of the wærewolves. For once, however, the disturbance is not Seph’s foster daughter, Beverly, her wacky grandmother, or her newly rediscovered mother. This time, it’s the ancient and incredibly sexy vampire Menessos, bearing bad news: because the vampire council fears he is plotting a power grab, Menessos is being hunted by a trio of truth-seeking vampire sisters so dangerous they are usually kept locked in stone.

His dreams imperiled, Menessos needs Seph more than ever . . . and she needs him. Now, Seph has magical promises to fulfill for the wæres, multiple mundane family challenges to meet, vampire politics to confront . . . and into the bargain she’s balancing two sexy supernatural males. It’s enough to drive any woman insane, especially when you throw in a dragon and—even worse—a government investigator. As danger threatens, Seph isn’t sure she can stay alive for the rest of the day . . . let alone long enough to accomplish all that needs to be done.

Thoughts: The great multi-tasker... Persephone Alcmedi. She is use to dealing with all sorts of issues, usually at the same time. But this time around, it is vampire Menessos, bringing bad news that he is being hunted down and the vampire council is behind it and he needs her help.

Good Read!  The triangle/bond between Persephone, Johnny and Menessos is quite delicious.  I like both Johnny and Menessos, but loved seeing more of Seph and Menessos. Can't wait to read the next book to see where things are going go.  The different POVs in this installment were a nice change. Wicked Circle is full of magic and action. Persephone is a fantastic heroine. She is constantly in danger, but manages one way or another to hold her own.  This wasn't my favorite in the series, but still an enjoyable read and worth checking out.

Score: 3 Stars

Author Website: http://www.authorlindarobertson.com/

Persephone Alcmedi series:
Vicious Circle
Hallowed Circle
Fatal Circle
Arcane Circle
Wicked Circle
Shattered Circle

Review: Arcane Circle by Linda Robertson

Title: Arcane Circle
Author: Linda Robertson
Series: Persephone Alcmedi
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: December 28, 2010

I received this book from Simon & Schuster, in exchange for an honest review.

Summary:   Even magic can’t solve everything. . . .

After facing down the forces of Fairy in mortal combat, Persephone Alcmedi still must deal with the aftermath. Not only does Seph now possess deadly secrets she must hide from the arcane and mundane world alike, but the dozens of magical creatures who’ve taken up residence behind her cornfield need food and shelter, and there’s still her foster daughter Beverly’s tenth birthday party to plan.

And that’s not all. . . . Seph’s boyfriend Johnny has revealed himself as the wærewolf Domn Lup, and the ruler of the wære world is en route from Romania to make sure Johnny really is the “king” he claims to be. But Johnny’s hiding a dangerous secret: his magic is locked in his mysterious tattoos. He and Seph must find a way for him to reclaim it—fast—despite those who have no intention of letting Johnny gain his full powers. Seph knows that, in the arcane world, strength is always a necessity and power must be constantly proven, but how far is she willing to go to succeed . . . and at what cost?

Thoughts: Persephone is dealing with the aftermath from the battle with the Fairies. She's dealing with her injured boyfriend Johnny, a party to plan and to top it off a bunch of magical creatures are camped out in her backyard.  Talk about some crazy stress, when will they girl get a break.

I enjoyed this story. The cover art really popped. I loved the greens and blues.  In the last book Persephone was dealing with the fairies and now she is dealing with the aftermath of the battle. To say poor Persephone has her hands full is an understatement. Arcane Circle was good story, an excellent addition. Action packed story, I definitely enjoyed this one more, compared to the last book. I think Urban Fantasy fans will eat this one up!

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://www.authorlindarobertson.com/

Persephone Alcmedi series:
Vicious Circle
Hallowed Circle
Fatal Circle
Arcane Circle
Wicked Circle
Shattered Circle

[Mini-Review + Giveaway] - Persephone Alcmedi Series, Book 1-3

Vicious Circle
Persephone Alcmedi #1
By Linda Robertson

Book Description: Being a witch doesn't pay the bills, but Persephone Alcmedi gets by between reading Tarot cards, writing her syndicated newspaper column, and kenneling werewolves in the basement when the moon is full -- even if witches aren't supposed to mingle with wolves. She really reaches the end of her leash, though, when her grandmother gets kicked out of the nursing home and Seph finds herself in the doghouse about some things she's written. Then her werewolf friend Lorrie is murdered...and the high priestess of an important coven offers Seph big money to destroy the killer, a powerful vampire named Goliath Kline. Seph is a tough girl, but this time she bites off more than she can chew. She needs a little help from her friends -- werewolf friends. One of those friends, Johnny, the motorcycle-riding lead singer for the techno-metal-Goth band Lycanthropia, has a crush on her. And while Seph has always been on edge around this 6'2" leather-clad hunk, she's starting to realize that although their attraction may be dangerous, nothing could be as lethal as the showdown that awaits them.

Thoughts:  This one got put on to my tbr list just for the cover alone. I instantly fell in love with it and the story definitely lived up to the awesomeness of the cover art. I loved the story and Persephone (Seph) Alcmedi was an excellent character to read about. I loved the group of friends that  she surrounds herself with. Especially werewolf Johnny.  The sexiness just rolls off of him. This series has a bit of every creature... witches, vampires, werewolves. I highly recommend this one.
------------------------------------------------------------

Hallowed Circle
Persephone Alcmedi #2
By Linda Robertson

Book Description: Persephone Alcmedi has been persuaded to compete for the position of High Priestess of the Cleveland, Ohio, coven — now that the former priestess, Vivian Diamond, has strangely gone missing. Unfortunately, there are a few small problems with the idea. Not only does Seph know rather more about Vivian's disappearance than the other witches realize, but the epic struggle she's just survived has left her with some highly unusual powers — ones that could be dangerous to reveal. Despite her reluctance, she agrees to participate, if only to prevent snooty Hunter Hopewell, an obnoxious but talented witch, from ending up in the winner's circle. Can Seph hide her secrets — including her connection to the master vampire-wizard Menessos — from the terrifyingly wise judges? Plus, there's her rock 'n' roll werewolf boyfriend, Johnny, and some angry fairies to deal with....

Thoughts: Again I love this cover, although I'm not sure why they put a guitar in the picture. A stellar second installment, and pretty much starts where Vicious Circle ends. Hallowed Circle was fast paced and fun read. Persephone takes on the position of High Priestess of the Coven. She has to deal with the annoying Hunter Hopewell and her growing attraction to Menessos.

------------------------------------------------------------

Fatal Circle
Persephone Alcmedi #3
By Linda Robertson

Book Description: There was a time when Persephone Alcmedi thought her life was hard to manage, what with wondering how to make sure she took adequate care of both her grandmother and her foster daughter, Beverley, whether she'd end up in the unwanted position of high priestess of a coven, and whether her werewolf lover, Johnny, would resist the groupies who hang around his band Lycanthropia.

But that was before the fairies started demanding that Seph's frightening, unpredictable ally - the ancient vampire Menessos - be destroyed . . . or the world will suffer. Seph and Menessos are magically bonded, but that's a secret she dares not reveal to her fellow witches lest they be forced to reject her and forbid her use of magic. And, despite the strain this casts on her relationship with Johnny, as a showdown with the fairies nears, she and Menessos badly need the werewolves as allies.

Life, death, and love are all on the line, but when destiny is calling, it doesn't help to turn away. With the individual threads of their fates twisted inextricably together, can Seph, Johnny, and Menessos keep the world safe from fairy vengeance?

Thoughts:  The third book in the series. While I enjoyed this one, it was a slow read for me. In this one Persephone is dealing with fairies. Now she thought she had a good management of her new life, but that was before the fairies. My favorite part of this installment was Persephone's every growing connection with the sexy vamp/wizard Menessos. Now this one wasn't my favorite, but I would definitely still recommend you check it out.

http://www.authorlindarobertson.com/

GIVEAWAY

Thanks to Simon & Schuster I have a set of these three books to giveaway to one lucky winner. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to U.S. Residents. The winner will be announced on January 14th. Good Luck!