Dark Hope (The Archangel Prophecies #1) by Monica McGurk

Release Date: July 29, 2014
Publisher: Greenleaf Book Group
Series: The Archangel Prophecies, Book 1
Author Website: http://monicamcgurk.com

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
After living with her overprotective, religious father since her parents' separation, Hope thought living with her mother might just be the thing she needed. She was more prepared than the average teen to live with the long absences her mother's job demanded. That was until she was blindsided by Michael, a good-looking, well-talking guy who gave her more attention than she knew how to handle. He became a shield against the guys tormenting her on the bus and throughout her school day.

Once assigned to pair up with another student for a paper, Hope's life turned upside down as secrets about her past surfaced to impact her present. She and Michael set out on a journey to discover the answers before time ran out. Putting their lives on the line to fight prophecy and mankind's own type of evil, they traveled across country on the promise of answer. Can she keep herself safe as she followed her heart? Will they be able to save the world without killing themselves?

Review:
One of my favorite things about NetGalley has always been the emails they send to entice you to read something outside your usual genres. This book, as well as the sequel, were available for reading. These books intrigued me by their delving into the fallen angel theories. I anticipated the teenage hormones and angst that came with the setting of a high school, but was a little surprised to find Hope more mature in some ways and really naive in others due to her upbringing.

The very beginning of the book laid the groundwork for her past - a victim of a child abduction found safe inside a hotel room as the abductor was found dead within the bathroom. The only reminder was a tattoo on her back, near her neck. From that moment her parents took two different paths. Her father went overboard to keep her safe from further harm, going so far as to quit his job and research any and all friends. Hope's mother wanted her to have a normal childhood, unmarred by the abduction. When they couldn't find common ground, they separated. Hope lived a fairly isolated life with her father due to the long work engagements that her mother's job demanded. There weren't very many people in her life, so these characters became distinct, reacting in different ways to the events of the story. Other characters appeared toward the end of the story, impacting the book in slightly-anticipated manner. Still, I found most of the characters held their own as the action moved toward that ending. Hope and Michael's characters began to blend somewhat near the end, but I do think that was in response to some of the events and my remembering that she was a teenager unaccustomed to life as an average teen.

I found the book contained something for everyone - romance, action, hormones, prophecy and angst to spare. However, that wasn't all there was to the book. The author used both Hope's abduction and one of her classes to open the discussion about human trafficking and how widespread the issue grew to include men, women and children here in the United States. While the voices on behalf of these victims grew louder over the past decade, there remained more work to be done in order to help those trapped in some very serious situations. I could tell how passionate the author was about the subject by the way Hope devoured whatever information she found and stood resolute in helping one victim regain her freedom. A portion of the proceeds from the author's book sales goes to helping end human trafficking and the victims left behind.

While I enjoyed a good portion of the book, I did find one aspect of the story more disturbing than entertaining. There were many layers within this story as the author combined theology, prophecy and real life issues to create a world where one teen girl might make a difference. Her rich descriptions of places and people helped Hope's world to come alive and to deliver the emotional roller coaster expected in today's YA books. Despite many good things, I found the relationship between Hope and Michael to be on an abusive collision course. To be honest, I felt disheartened when I reached that point in the book, because I'd enjoyed the story until then. Reading the rest of the book, I understood why some actions were taken, given their situations, but overall, it left me feeling really mixed about the book. I was glad that one character picked up on the same feeling. I'm interested to see how the sequel deals with all the groundwork that's been laid. If you enjoy your YA with a hint of darkness, prophecy and what-the-heck action sequences, then I would recommend this book for your TBR list.

Dark Hope (The Archangel Prophecies #1) by Monica McGurk is currently available at several online retailers including Barnes & Noble, Kobo and Amazon. It can be found in paperback or digital (Kindle) formats. The link provided below is for the book's Amazon page.
Dark Hope (The Archangel Prophecies #1) by Monica McGurk

The Vines by Christopher Rice

Release Date: October 21, 2014
Publisher: 47 North
Author Website: http://www.christopherricebooks.com 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Having wealth, power and privilege didn't guarantee a happy life as Caitlin Chaisson found out when she caught her husband cheating. Rage and desparation drove her to the edge, but something deep within her family's homestead pulled her back. Buried underground were the ghosts of ancient wrongs never made right. They feed on the Caitlin's rage and doling out punishment as they see fit.

Blake Henderson was Caitlin's best friend since they were small children, but he didn't speak to her for over six months when he first tried to tell her about her husband's cheating. With his own share of tragic memories, he returned to her side when there's a terrible accident at her home. Not knowing the source of the accident or the horrible things that had been released, he walked headlong into something out of a nightmare. Can he conquer his own rage and hurt before it consumed him?

Review:
Okay, I admit it. I love creepy books. I saw this novel offered at NetGalley, read the description, and requested to read it because of the creepiness that it promised. Much of the novel takes place on an old plantation near New Orleans where the ancestors of Caitlin Chaisson grew sugar cane and used slave labor. As the story continued, the entire history behind the house, the yard and betrayal was revealed in some pretty head-scratching, gruesome ways. Long buried secrets, no matter how deeply laid to rest, always find a way to return to the surface at some point.

The cast of characters within the novel were a diverse lot. Men and women from both ends of the economic and social spectrum came together in a stereo-typical way for a Southern plantation. In a way the plantation itself and the roles each of the characters take were also main characters at times. Though the events of the novel take place in rapid succession from the very beginning, the author was able to present characters that were unique and very much flawed. Not one was a shining example of true good. Each of them carried the weight of their own darkness, deeply buried secrets and decisions they wished to undo. Yet, I found myself rooting for a few of them to outwit the murderous spirit that threatened to destroy their lives.

From the outset much of the pace was quick - almost non-stop. Once the magic was set into motion, there was no going back. As the vines fed on the blood and rage offered, more and more people became offerings for the sinister source of their power. Soon the forces from the past and the present battled for the future of the plantation and all those who call it home. There were plenty of scenes where the action or revelations propelled the story forward at a steady pace, but I did feel like the story stalled in a couple of places. I'm not sure if it was the repetition of certain information (no spoilers!) or just a lull in the action. Either way, the story quickly recovered each time and moved headlong into the ultimate showdown.

Overall, I enjoyed the book as much as I anticipated. Spooky yet elegant settings combined with emotional whirlwinds that humans bring with them provided a lot for the imagination to digest. Even with its dark, murderous history, there's something rich and decadent about the setting of New Orleans and its oldest buildings. This book brought the right mix of horror, history and drama for me. If you're looking for a glimpse into the dark realm of possibility or a side trip into the supernatural, then this book is definitely one that should be on your TBR list.

The Vines by Christopher Rice is currently available at many online retailers and local bookstores. It can be purchased in paperback, audio-book or digital formats. The link below will take you to the book's Amazon page.
The Vines by Christopher Rice 

Tomes of Terror: Haunted Bookstores and Libraries by Mark Leslie

Release Date: September 27, 2014
Publisher: Dundurn Group

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Libraries and bookstores are much-loved places among those who treasure the written word. As with any place that makes a huge impact on one's life, some chose not to leave once their time on earth is done. This book is filled with tales of those who stay for one reason or another, whether it be the company or a specific and beloved tome.

Mark Leslie combines his love of books with his love of the supernatural to give this listing of places that would delight ghost hunters and bookworms alike. Filled with history and tales of things that go bump in the night, this books gives its readers a taste of local legends from across Canada and the United States. Who knows? You might just find your beloved bookstore or childhood library among them!

Review:
While searching through the titles available for review at NetGalley, I found this gem of a book and had to request it. Not only did the book cover the supernatural, but it also visited a wide variety of both bookstores and libraries. Those places have always held a special place in my heart and probably will continue to do so for as long as I'm alive. After reading through this book, there's hope for my love of books to continue even after my physical years are through.

Whether your love extended to either books, the paranormal, or both, this book explored many places within Canada and the United States which have plenty to offer patrons. Each library or bookstore received its own section or chapter, filled with details such as the building's history as well as some of the ghostly occurrences that were reported by owners and patrons alike. One difference between this particular book and others like it was the author's inclusion of more recent information. I could tell that the author did a lot of research into the histories of the libraries or the bookstores and included the changes in management or location and whether the store is still operating. Many of the chapters ended with the library or bookstore's present contact information.

I liked how the author gave enough information about the paranormal experiences to spark my curiosity, but not enough that it overwhelmed the history or legacy of the area. The reader can visit these places for themselves with some foreknowledge, but their experiences can still be their own. There seemed to be a more personal, conversational feel to the mini-biographies. While I knew that many of the places mentioned in the book, there were a lot that were surprises. It brought to mind that saying I've heard a number of times about walking in the footsteps of another wherever we go on this earth. Bob's Beach Books in Oregon was one of my favorite stories because it's not necessarily a ghost story, but it's still on the creepy side. Of course, the Willard Library in Indiana was one of the stories that I've known about for years. Each time I see the story, it brings back wonderful memories for me. Odd for a ghost story, of course, but I've had some good times looking into the supernatural.

Overall, I liked this book because it did combine two of my favorite things. I also liked it because I could tell the author put his heart into the work. That made a big difference in the style of writing for me, making it much more than just a collection of dry facts and already known legends or myths. The author's enthusiasm came through in the chapters, especially those in which he personally had visited a place that was mentioned. Pictures of the libraries or bookstores helped to frame the information in reality for me, making it seem as though anything could be possible. I have added quite a few of these places on my list to visit one of these days. If you're a lover of either the supernatural or literary treats, this book is the perfect combination.  

Tomes of Terror: Haunted Bookstores and Libraries by Mark Leslie is currently available at many online retailers and local bookstores. It can be purchased in either paperback or digital formats including Kindle. The link provided below will bring up the book's page Amazon.
Tomes of Terror: Haunted Bookstores and Libraries by Mark Leslie

Sworn (Book #1 of the Vampire Legends) by Emma Knight

Release Date: September 7, 2011
Publisher: Emma Knight
Series: Vampire Legends series, Book 1

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
After her family moved from Pennsylvania to New York, Rachel Wood faced the overwhelming challenge of starting a new school and finding new friends. First couple of days in school didn't go as smoothly as she anticipated, but her world brightened when one of the cutest boys in school asked her to go to a party with him. Despite bumps along the way, her first date and house party seemed fun until a group of girls decided she wasn't welcome. Her first week in the new town ended with both sweet and sour notes.

Instead of letting the bad times keep her down, Rachel focused on the happy moments and tried to figure out a way to see Rob, the guy of her dreams, again without all the drama. As her plans unraveled, her path led Rachel straight into a dangerous, life-altering situation. A mysterious stranger appeared from the shadows, rescued her and turned her world upside for the second time since moving to the new town. What do these changes mean for Rachel? Will she be able to figure it all out before it's too late?


Review:
When this book showed up on OHFB and at a sale price, I thought it deserved a chance to be read. It was a little out of my comfort zone since it was labeled YA, but I began reading the book with an open mind.  Right away I got the sense that Rachel was the typical middle child who didn't know who she wanted to be, stuck between the seemingly perfect older sister and easy-going younger brother. Combine that with the trauma of moving from her small hometown into a larger, suburban city and it became a recipe for disaster for the main character.

Many of the characters were the stereotypical teens in high school - the jocks, the popular girls, the goths, the punks and many more. The author did a good job of showing those cliques and their interactions. Rachel's awkwardness as the new girl in school became apparent before she even stepped into the building while her siblings projected their own personalities with ease. Her parents made brief appearances in this book, but they were concerned and interested in their children's lives which I thought was refreshing.

The pacing of the story was a little all over the place for me. The events of the school year happen so quickly that I wasn't sure how much time had actually passed in the story. One moment the family moved into their house. A few weeks later found the school preparing for the Homecoming Dance though there had been no discussion of the dance throughout the scenes at the school. While I thought the story was a good one for YA readers, I also thought there could have been so much more included that would have added more dynamics.

Overall, the story was a good one. I believe the author has the base of a really good series, but there were a lot of editing errors that distracted me. Things happened with little explanation or warning and often left me wondering why or how they impacted the story. I honestly hope the author takes some time to go back through this book and work out some of the listed issues so the story can shine. If you're looking for a YA paranormal to add to your collection or need something to fill an hour or two, this may just be the book for you.

Sworn (Book #1 of the Vampire Legends) by Emma Knight is currently available online at several retailers in both paperback and Kindle formats. Click the link below to visit the book's Amazon page.
Sworn (Book #1 of the Vampire Legends) by Emma Knight

Horns: A Novel by Joe Hill

Release Date: February 18, 2010
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishing

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Ignatius "Ig" Perrish came from a very well-to-do family but often found himself on the fringes of acceptance, both at home and everywhere else. The youngest child who spent many of his days fighting his asthma, Ig wasn't able to continue the family's musical legacy as his father and older did. There seemed nothing special in his life until the day he met Merrin. Inseparable from their first meeting, the young couple appeared to have everything planned with nothing but good futures ahead of them.

So it was until the night Merrin was found dead beneath a tree where everyone used to play as children. With fingers pointed at him, Ig weathered the brutal storm of accusations and prejudice as he struggled to find his way in life without the goodness Merrin brought to his life. After having a horrible hangover on the anniversary of his beloved's death, Ig discovered something about him was different and it directed his feet on the path to discover the truth behind Merrin's death and his new lease on life.

Review:
I have wanted to read Hill's books for some time now, but I wasn't able to afford them for a period of time. When I discovered this book on sale, I wasted no time in picking up a copy for my Kindle. The book's description intrigued me from the first paragraph, so I was excited when I entered Ig's part of the world. There's a sense of something stolen from Ig in the beginning of the book as the foundation of the story was being built. With each passing page it became clear how deeply he felt the absence of Merrin and how much of a toll the loss had taken on Ig and their circle of loved ones.

In the first part of the novel, a small cast of characters were introduced, but the spotlight shone brighter on a trio which included Ig, Merrin and Lee. The story followed the blossoming friendship between the three of them as well as the romance between Ig and Merrin. Even as their lives progressed into adulthood, the ties between the three of them wove their paths in and around one another until the night Merrin was killed. Ig's world shattered in more ways than one. What was good inside him died the night Merrin was murdered. Every day after was one day closer to revealing his true nature and helped prepare him for his biggest test. While not all of the characters were given a lot of time in the spotlight, they did feel real to me. Their emotional reactions to the events in the story made it easy to empathize with them, cheering some along while despising others.

With a steady pace, the story easily carried me along its tracks. Although I did expect it, I found the beginning a little slow until I reached the middle of the first chapter. That's when the first of many, many weird things began to take place and the story had its hooks in me. Each passing chapter introduced another level of either weirdness or background. Around the middle of the book, I thought I had everything figured out and tried to guess what was going to happen in the next chapter. Boy, was I ever wrong to try and do that. Nothing I guessed came to pass how I envisioned it. I'll just sit in the ride and follow along with the next book of Hill's that I read.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. There were a lot of little jokes, cliches and interesting twists that I didn't find myself bored for a moment. I so wanted an ending that wasn't really feasible, but the one given wrapped up all the ends neatly and very creatively. I am looking forward to reading more of Joe Hill's books in the future. If you are a lover of the strange, the slightly outside-the-box or a time-defying love, this book is one you need to look into reading.

Horns: A Novel by Joe Hill is available at many online retailers and local bookstores. It can be purchased in hardcover, paperback, Kindle/e-book and audio book formats. Below is a link to the book's Amazon page.
Horns: A Novel by Joe Hill

The Terminals: Spark (The Terminals #1) by Michael F. Stewart

Release Date: April 15, 2014
Series: The Terminals, Book 1

Rating: 4 out 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Filled with guilt and shame for her act of cowardice, Lt. Col. Christine Kurzow decided to do the world a favor and end her life. She failed and found herself in the hospital. She was then visited by an underground agency, recruiting her to become a handler for a Terminal, someone who goes into the afterlife seeking information to help save countless lives in the living world.

Sending her first Terminal into the afterlife to find information on the abduction of eleven children by a ruthless dead serial killer wasn't going as well as she expected. More and more people are dying with her involvement as questions about the unit's commander began swirling in her mind. Will she be able to save the children in time? Will she find out the real reason she was recruited in the first place?

Review:
Another book that I requested to review from NetGalley, I was really wondering how the author was going to pull off the story without a lot of over-the-top antics. From the moment I began the book, it was clear that the author took the telling of this story seriously. I admit, I ended up liking this story a lot more than I initially thought I would. A great surprise, I really am looking forward to other books in the Terminal series as well as checking out some of the author's other works.

As I mentioned, the beginning chapter of the book got right into the action and why the main character, Christine, found herself in a hospital of sorts. Not all of her motives for her actions were made clear at the outset, but her thought process and beliefs were laid bare. It was easy to measure her feelings about herself from them. Despite her nearly constant desire to die, she was a complicated character with a sharp mind that interacted harshly with the other characters. I liked that not all of the other characters were staunchly good or bad. They each held secrets that made them the way they were and it made the story more interesting, in my opinion.

Under the guise of a secret unit which has to answer only to the top level, there were many avenues open for the story to explore. The characters were able to play fast and loose with the laws of the land as they went about their missions due to the freedom they were afforded by the secret status. Having the ability to move outside the law didn't always play in the unit's favor. In fact, on more than one occasion, it worked against them with tragic results and added more fuel to the fiery desire for death that Christine carried with her. Throw in some ghosts, different afterlives and a psychic and you got yourself a plate full of possibilities.

Speaking of the afterlives, I was impressed by the author's explanations of the different versions featured in the book and the exploration of each. I was able to understand many of the tenets of the different faiths he explored in the books without feeling as though the information was being dumbed down or important information was being left out. The visitations were often used to advance the story and they easily kept the story moving at a steady pace. With so many faiths to choose from, I believe the author has so many paths to walk down. The only question will be which one to explore next.

Despite my early worries, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a departure from other books that mixed the paranormal and serial killers in that it brought up so many things to think about. Whether it was a person's right to die, the weight of a soldier's death upon a commander's soul or the almost fanatical desire to ensure a lasting legacy, the author presented a definite thrill ride of a book. Looking for book with action, adventure, heart and soul, then this is the book for you!

The Terminals: Spark (The Terminals #1) by Michael F. Stewart is now available in Kindle format at various online retailers. Purchase your copy from Amazon by clicking the link below.
The Terminals: Spark (The Terminals #1) by Michael F. Stewart

Doctor Sleep (The Shining #2) by Stephen King

Release Date: September 24, 2013
Publisher: Scribner
Series: The Shining series, Book 2

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Dan Torrance witnessed many horrors as a child, but the worst took place at the Overlook Hotel. The memories and ghosts from that traumatic experience haunted Dan throughout his adolescence.Though his closest friend, Doc, taught him how to cope with some of the monsters, there were many left which drove him straight into becoming an alcoholic. After reaching his "rock bottom," Dan found himself in a small town where he battled his demons and came to terms with some of his past.

A young girl with an impressive "shining" stumbled into Dan's life and into the path of the True Knot, a group of wanderers who seek out those children with the shine and take it from them. Dan did his best to pass down the knowledge given to him by Doc, but when her own life was threatened by the True Knot members, Dan must face down everything from his past in order to keep her and others like her safe.

Review:
Books by Stephen King were among the first books I ever read on my own and will continue to find places upon my shelves. Many of his books are among those I consider my favorites. This book was definitely a treat to read. Not only did it answer many of the questions surrounding the fate of Danny and his mom after the events of The Shining, but it also maintained its own edge and relation to the current generation while visiting the past.

It was a bit difficult to get close to a few of the characters in this book. Some were written with sharp edges like many of the True Knot members. Others were decent people in the core of their being but had made so many bad decisions that the consequences wrapped around them like a thick, prickly skin of sorts. Most of the time, I was rooting for Dan despite the erratic behavior and the dumb decisions. Over the course of the novel, he proved time and time again that he was much more than a guy with a little something extra.

I think a lot of the True Knot members were interesting as well. There's no telling what they would have been if their natures hadn't been destroyed by their "turning" and assimilation into the wandering gang. Many of the members had unique gifts of their own. Rose was the most powerful and possessed many gifts including telepathy, locating others with her mind, invading a person's mind and charming others into doing what she wanted. Snakebite Andi was able to put people into a deep sleep whenever she wanted. Like a traveling carnival of horror, they possessed nicknames and gifts to suit their needs.

For much of the book, there was the typical back and forth between characters in different locations that I've come to expect with King's work. Within one chapter, there might be four or five mini-chapters and the actions of the characters in one affecting the characters in another. It was a little confusing during the middle of the book when there was a lot going on both with the characters and in the world itself. But things became much clearer as the story continued to unfold. The action and steady pace of the novel kept me turning the pages even when I needed to stop!

Overall, this was a really good book. It held many answers for lingering questions as well as new questions for the future generation to answer. I truly hope that we might see one more appearance from Dan Torrance before it's all said and done. If you love a story that's a little more out there than usual or filled with weirdness one expects of Stephen King, don't hesitate to pick up a copy of this book.

Doctor Sleep (The Shining #2) by Stephen King is currently available for purchase at many retailers, both in-store and online. It can be purchased in a variety of formats including hardcover, paperback and Kindle. Click the link below to visit the book's page at Amazon.
Doctor Sleep (The Shining #2) by Stephen King

Asylum (Birch Harbor #1) by Kristen Selleck

Release Date: October 27, 2011
Publisher: Brother Maynard Publications
Series: Birch Harbor series

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Chloe Adams wanted a place to start her life over. After dealing with a less than ideal life at home and school, she picked a college in a little town called Birch Harbor, located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. With no one from her past around, Chloe began to find a place for herself among the other college freshman and became best friends with her dorm roommate. It didn't matter much that the college was once intended to be used as an insane asylum.

Then strange things began happening on her dorm floor. Flickering lights, whispers in the night and strange writings were enough to scare the most practical person. But for Chloe, each instance had a particular meaning - a reminder that she can't outrun her past. Will she flee from Birch Harbor, the only place she felt safe? Will she stand and fight against those wanting to drive her mad?


Review:
I bought this book for my Kindle when I was playing around at Amazon one day. I was intrigued by the synopsis of the book because I wondered exactly what would happen if a woman, formerly of a mental hospital, were to begin classes in a building slated to be a mental hospital. If you tossed a bit of romance, freshman year of college and liberal amounts of paranormal activity, you'd have this book in a nutshell. But that wasn't all the book had to offer, as I found out the further I read.

Part of me identified with Chloe. No, it wasn't the certifiable part either. I was a shy, bookish type of girl in school that found it difficult to make friends. On that level, I related to her very well. Of course, other characters filled the stereotypical cast found at many colleges nowadays including the go-to party girl, the uber jocks, and even the one weird professor that nearly everyone misunderstands. They each brought their individual elements to the book and their interactions kept the story moving forward.

It did take a few chapters for the book to find its footing. I was happy that the pacing of the book slipped into a steady rhythm. I would have devoured this book in a day or two if I had no other obligations to attend to. I still found it to be a fairly quick read that ended with a good resolution. There were some doors left open for the next offering in the series but I felt that there were enough answers to keep me satisfied for the time being.

There were only a few issues that kept me from completely enjoying the book. Within the first few chapters of the book, I came across several grammar mistakes such as using commas in place of periods or not capitalizing the first word of a sentence. While I understand that some of these issues can be explained by their being used within dialogue, it was confusing for me to read four or five sentences connected by commas. It made that part of the conversation seemed rushed, almost like Six, the best friend from Blossom, was trying to speak for the character instead.

Overall, I liked the story and the place where it lead the characters. The idea was a great one for many other stories to come. In my honest opinion, if this book were to have a thorough editing, it would be a much bigger hit. In the end, it was a great way to pass the time. I would recommend this to anyone who loves a good ghost story mixed with a bit of adventure and possibly reliving that dreaded freshman year of college!

Asylum (Birch Harbor #1) by Kristen Selleck is available at several online retailers in either paperback or Kindle form. You can get a copy from Amazon by clicking the link provided below. 
Asylum (Birch Harbor #1) by Kristen Selleck

Marysvale by Jared Southwick

Release Date: September 23, 2010
Publisher: Two Roads
Series: Marysvale Series

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
John Casey moved from town to town for as long as he could remember. Because he possessed a special gift, he found himself in more awkward positions than he cared to count. As he fled from certain death in Syre, he stumbled across a deadly secret hidden in the dark forest to the north.

That wasn't the only secret he discovered when he arrived at a small cabin situated on a lake's shore. The woman who lived there revealed some of the answers to questions about his childhood, thus setting him on a quest to discover the rest when he made his way to Marysvale. Would he survive the journey to a town where no one dared to question authority and walls were built to keep people in rather than danger out? Could he justify protecting himself while others suffered at the hands of beasts?

Review:
This book was a strange and interesting read because it was set in a period akin to Colonial times here in the United States and included the paranormal. It was an eclectic mix that the author was able to blend. I really enjoyed the strange quality of the story, both in terms of John, the main character's, unusual abilities and the weird, otherworldly beasts that lingered in the dark forest. Toss in a tyrannical governor and you have an action-packed story that kept the pages turning.

From the beginning it was clear that John's special talents were both a blessing and curse for him. While it allowed him to evade trouble, his gift also made it difficult for him to turn away from situations that went against his own moral code. This combined with accusations of witchcraft often sent him from town to town. It was during this moment the pace of the book quickened and maintained a steady course. Along his journey, John's true character and memories threatened him as well as those who crossed his path. There was more to the story and I could feel his frustration at discovering the truths at a slower than desired pace.

I enjoyed the introduction of the mythical beings, the Brean, who lived within the forest. At times their presence in the story was unnerving and terrifying, which is what they were meant to be. The evil of the Brean augmented the evil of man within the story. Both made it possible for the people of Marysvale to become prisoners within their own city. The slow progression of freedoms lost became an essential part of John's past as well as the overall story. I was struck by how relevant the topic could be when applied to some of the events happening in this time period. I believe this was what the author was going for and if so, it hit the mark completely.

Overall, the book was a good read. It had a lot of action, pasts being revealed and just a hint of possible romance mixed with some lighter moments. The only thing troubling me about the book was portions of the dialogue didn't seem to fit the setting of the book. From the descriptions of everyday life, tools and clothing, it seemed the book was set in a time before many modern advances. People used muskets and swords, primarily rode horses for transport and wore clothing similar to those in Colonial times. Yet, there were moments when speaking that the characters used words that made them appear to be from more modern times. It was a little confusing but the overall plot and action were sufficient enough to keep me reading. If you enjoy something a bit out of the ordinary, then this is the book for you!

Marysvale by Jared Southwick is available at online retailers in either hardcover or Kindle forms. By clicking the link below, you can purchase a copy from Amazon.
Marysvale by Jared Southwick

The Necromancer's House: A Novel by Christopher Buehlman

Release Date: October 1, 2013
Publisher: Ace Hardcover


Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Andrew Ranulf Blankenship is a handsome, stylish nonconformist with wry wit, a classic Mustang, and a massive library. He is also a recovering alcoholic and a practicing warlock, able to speak with the dead through film. His house is a maze of sorcerous booby traps and escape tunnels, as yours might be if you were sitting on a treasury of Russian magic stolen from the Soviet Union thirty years ago. 

Andrew has long known that magic was a brutal game requiring blood sacrifice and a willingness to confront death, but his many years of peace and comfort have left him soft, more concerned with maintaining false youth than with seeing to his own defense. Now a monster straight from the pages of Russian folklore is coming for him, and frost and death are coming with her. *synopsis provided by Goodreads*

Review:
As with many of the books sitting on my TBR, the description suckered me into giving it a chance. So when I won a free copy from a Goodreads giveaway, I was excited to have it on the list. What I didn't anticipate was how uncommon the book truly was. The writing style was different than what's on the market today in the sense that it was uninhibited, openly brash and at times, crude. Yet, that's exactly why I enjoyed it.

I had some trouble adjusting to the author's style as I began the book, but became more comfortable by the middle. Not unlike stepping into foreign country for the first time, I had to find my footing within the world that the author created because his world allowed for the use of magic in the everyday lives of his characters. Sure, it was similar to the world I currently live with its use of computers and cellphones, but there were also a clear tether to a much older time with the inclusion of myths and legends from centuries earlier.

The characters were very much like modern day people who made a lot of bad choices and yet there was also a spark of hope that they might redeem themselves. Andrew, Anneke, Chancho and others were recovering alcoholics, plagued by the events in their past either directly or indirectly caused by their substance abuse. Not everyone in the story was a magic user. Many were regular people who had no clue what was going on around them. That layer of secrecy gave the users (people who wield the magic) a bond akin to that of a fraternity, sorority and the like. It allowed for some pretty interesting interactions between the two groups, in my opinion.

Now, this story asked me to suspend a lot of belief, but the reward was worth the effort. There were a lot of themes that played out within the story. The use of magic was simply an added element by the time I hit the middle of the book. Mainly the journey of the story covered the principle of Karma, the idea that what you do or put into the universe comes back to you. It was repeated time and again in several of the character's actions. Toward the end of the book, there was a sense of completion, having come full circle.

Not everything that occurred was pretty or filled with rainbows. There were a lot of scenes filled with dark, morbidly occult writing in line with many of the characters being magic users and performing tasks as such. Humor was present in many of the scenes which provided a nice contrast to the darkness. Overall, I enjoyed the book once I found my footing. It was a different way of looking a world filled with people who could use magic and those who couldn't. If you're looking for an off-the-wall, magical journey into something slightly different the world around you, pick up this book. It's a great way to escape the doldrums of normal life for a while.

The Necromancer's House: A Novel by Christopher Buehlman is currently available for purchase at many retailers in hardback, Kindle and audio-book formats. By clicking on the link below, you can purchase a copy from Amazon.
The Necromancer's House: A Novel by Christopher Buehlman

The Grave Artist by Paula Lynn Johnson

Release Date: March 29, 2013
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform  (Kindle version first released on March 12, 2012)

Rating: 4 out 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Still reeling from the divorce of her parents and the subsequent move from her hometown, Clair finds herself struggling with everything. She tries to find her way through the emotional landmines by immersing herself in the only thing she knows that she's good at - her art. But when she begins drawing winged skulls at alarmingly increased rate, Clare is forced to solve the mystery.

She begins to unravel the clues with the help of her only friend, Gollum. As she finds the answers to her questions, Clare must pay a higher price. Driven to the brink, she pushes forward in order to solve the mystery and to keep herself from going insane. But can she do it without the answers taking her life?

Review:
I'll admit that I'm still relatively new to the YA genre. When I began reading this book, I wasn't really sure what to expect from it. It didn't take me very long to figure out that there was a lot of tension between the characters and the paranormal aspect of the story helped to keep the level of tension high throughout the whole story until the mystery was solved. This book is one of those that once you begin reading, it's hard to put down for very long.

From the beginning, the reader is shown the major conflict within Clare's family. Everyone is having a hard time with the divorce. Each of the main characters are giving a chance to reveal the pain and damage that the upheaval in the family has done to them. Written from Clare's point of view, we do see more of her angst and turmoil and yes, it's of the teenage variety. She's sixteen. I wouldn't expect anything less. The author also shows us the hurt and turmoil of her twenty-something sister, her mother and even her father. It's these glimpses that help to make the characters feel real and distinct from one another.

The story doesn't slack off in the pacing department. Once things begin happening in earnest for Clare, they continue until they reach the very end. I expected a few twists and turns and thought I had everything figured out until the last couple of chapters. What I had been envisioning wasn't what happened. It was a pleasant surprise even as it made me sad. There was a nice blend of action sequences and times where the characters paused to catch their breath.

In truth, this book was a good way to spend a chilly evening. I enjoyed the history and scientific lessons included within the hunt for answers. It all added up to a good read that went fairly quick. If you're looking for a good, first step into the YA genre that's not overbearing, this is among one of the books you should try.

The Grave Artist by Paula Lynn Johnson is currently available for purchase in either paperback or Kindle form. You can purchase a copy from Amazon by clicking the link below.
The Grave Artist by Paula Lynn Johnson

Paranormal State: My Journey into the Unknown by Ryan Buell, Stefan Petrucha

Release Date: September 21, 2010
Publisher: It Books

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Go behind the scenes of the founding of the Paranormal Research Society (PRS) and the television show that followed with this book written by Ryan Buell and Stefan Petrucha. Ryan takes through much of the thought process in developing PRS while a student at Penn State. He introduces us to the other founding members and reveals some of the first cases that the group investigated before receiving the call to do the show, Paranormal State on the A&E network.

Not only does he explain the way in which PRS does their investigations, Ryan also goes in depth on the cases in the first few seasons. Research the cases and feel the investigations through his words while learning the reasons behind their actions. Cases gone over include many from the first season as well as the most intense, demonic-laced cases they encountered during their investigations.

Review:
I had seen the show several times before a friend of mine let me borrow this book. Always a fan of the paranormal, I did find the way that the group investigated and helped the clients to be a refreshing change with all the paranormal investigation shows on the various channels. Intrigued by the show, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book.

The thing that stuck with me was the level of honesty in which the book is written. When there were missteps and mistakes made by either PRS or the production crew, it was noted in the book. Even the times when Ryan was full of doubt and wanted to step away from the show forever were talked about in several chapters. It's refreshing to see accept responsibility for the negative things as much as they accept praise for the positive things. All of the investigators showed different levels of growth as the show progressed and this was also documented in the book.

Whether a person has watched the show or not, there is enough information given in all of the chapters to help lead the reader along at a fairly good pace. The way in which the book is written helps to give each member of the PRS family more depth than the television show was able to do. It was really neat to see them as fun-loving, smiling, open-minded people in place of the completely serious, never smiling group that is often shown in the shows.

It doesn't matter if you truly believe the same things as Ryan or anyone in the group nor does being a skeptic take anything away from the book. All possible explanations are ruled out until there's simply one question left. Is it possible that there's something out there? For those who enjoy the television show or behind-the-scenes accounts, this book is definitely one to be picked up.

Paranormal State: My Journey into the Unknown by Ryan Buell and Stefan Petrucha is available for purchase at many major retailers including Amazon and others. It can be bought in either paperback or Kindle form. You can purchase a copy by clicking the link to Amazon.com below.
Paranormal State: My Journey into the Unknown by Ryan Buell, Stefan Petrucha

A Familiar Fate by Hope McLaren

Release Date:  June 19, 2013
Publisher:  Hope McLaren (Kindle), CreateSpace Independent Publishing (Paperback)

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Violet Evans is not the typical sixteen year-old girl. She's an orphan who lives with a foster mom who rarely gives the poor girl a second thought. As questions about her past begin to swirl within her own mind, Violet also experiences strange, lifelike dreams that often leave her with questionable tastes in her mouth and many more questions about herself than before.

A series of events leads Violet to discover that the past she had been told by her foster mom was all a lie. One by one, she finds out the truths of who she is, where she belongs and what is expected of her. Will she buckle under the pressure? Will she be able to free herself from the ties of her past?

Review:
Although I'm still new to the realm of Paranormal YA books, I found myself enjoying this one from the start. Immediately I was drawn into Violet's world and experiencing her emotions. All the confusion and anger at the foster mom for the treatment and then betrayal when secrets were discovered. There were a few times that I forgot Violet was only a teenager because she acted more like an adult than some of the adults in the story. However, I feel that the way in which she grew up made her more adult-like than a regular teen should be.

The story moved in a very comfortable pace. It wasn't so slow that my interest was lost nor was it too fast that I had to backtrack to figure out what was happening. I again felt what the character was feeling when things did get overwhelming for her in a short span of time. With the way the story moved, it seemed as a natural progression of events. I could honestly believe that those things took place as they did.

This book is the author's debut novel, setting things up for an eventual series of books involving the characters and world created. I am looking forward to the next book as I want to see how a few of the characters have dealt with the way things unfolded within the present book. Overall, I truly liked this story and would very much love to give it 4.5 stars.

A Familiar Fate by Hope McLaren is currently available in both paperback and Kindle forms. They can be purchased at Amazon.com at the link below.
A Familiar Fate by Hope McLaren

Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum by Stephen Prosapio

Release Date: May 2011 (first publication)
Publisher: Otherworld Publications LLC

Rating:  4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Ever wonder what it would be like to team up two paranormal research teams and toss them into an area with high paranormal activity? Throw in the fact that each team has their own style of investigating and a few members of the teams have their own unique abilities and you have a volatile mix ripe for twists and turns.

For Zach and his crew, this situation is a reality. As the investigators spend the 48 hours combing through Rosewood Asylum's history and chasing the ghost stories, hidden secrets and betrayals of both the past and present attempt to derail the entire operation. The main worry on Zach's mind is whether or not everyone gets out of Rosewood Asylum intact - mentally and physically - when the secrets are laid bare.

Review:
Right from the beginning, the reader is shown how deeply conflicted Zach is about what he believes he needs to be doing and what the network controlling his show thinks he should do. Whispers of doubt plague him after Zach begins to notice how things aren't adding up. The author does a good job of building the level of anxiety in the character. Although Zach is often a logical thinking, he can be misled by the amount of trust he has in those closest to him.

I was glad to see that all the characters in the book have distinct personalities. When the two groups of investigators merged, I had anticipated a certain amount of blending between the characters. It was great to see each one retain their own flaws and quirks. There are similarities among those that do each type of work in the investigation. The researchers share their passion for accuracy and are determined to find the answers needed. Tech guys seem to have their own common language although they are from different areas and backgrounds. Even Zach and his rival host, Bryce, share leadership qualities though their investigating styles are completely different.

The pacing of the story was well maintained throughout the book. When the story began, the investigation had also started. Things moved slowly before building into a feverish climax. Each chapter brought out a new piece of the puzzle. As both Zach and the reader put them together, it almost seemed as if the reader was a part of the investigation as well. There were a couple of points in the story that I had to go back and reread the passages simply because I had failed to note the date on the entry. Other than those few instances, I had no trouble being carried away by the story.

Overall, I think the author was able to mix present day elements with the known historical events that many people may recognize as they read the book. It was exciting to be able to connect with the story on that level. This book is among those that kept me turning the pages. I wanted, soon needed, to know what happened to the group as events reached their peak. If you are looking for a well-written story about ghost hunting from two points of view with a ton of scares in between, you should consider picking this one up.

Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum by Stephen Prosapio is available in hardback or paperback as well as in Kindle form. It can be purchased at Amazon.com by clicking the following link.
Ghosts of Rosewood Asylum by Stephen Prosapio

Tantra (The Anu Files #1) by Adi

Rating:  4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Anu needed a break in the worst way from her life as a Guardian in New York. Despite all the warnings she had been given, she fell in love and allowed her guard to slip. That lapse in judgement ended badly for Anu and drove her to the land of her ancestors, India, in the hopes of finding vengenance and salvation within each fight she immersed herself into on the city's streets.

Unfortunately for her, the way of life in India is vastly different from that as she had come to know in New York. Her kick-butt-and-take-names-later type of approach doesn't go over well in the area and gets her into more trouble than she first realizes. She soon becomes embroiled in a situation that could impact the lives of everyone in the world. Anu must master herself in order to save those who have become close to her despite the longing to seclude herself from everyone. The only question is will she master it all in time?

Review:
Winning this book in a free giveaway at Goodreads.com allowed me to read a book that I might not have picked up otherwise. Nowadays I'm very reluctant to pick up something that has vampires in because there seems to be a ton of books flooding that particular genre. However this book soon showed itself to be much more than a story about vampires. Though they were present in the story and played a major role, we were also introduced to the spiritual side of India through the story. Ghosts, demons, goblins - they all popped up a time or two to make their presence felt.

Vampires within this story aren't exactly like the vampires we believe them to be. Explained within the view of the Karmic system, they are somehow stuck between incarnations on their way to enlightenment. To me, this was an interesting twist on the usual vampire lore. Combining this with the history of sattvic, tantra, and Indian deities made for a very interesting read.

The story is set at a good pace, neither too fast or too slow. The reader is introduced to the main character, Anu, and the reason for her journey to India early in the story but we're not given all the details. We are just as blind to the way the Guardians work in the Delhi area as she is when she begins her first night in town. The characters' reactions and dialogue seemed truly authentic to the events that happened and each one of the characters maintained their distinct personalities throughout the story.

In addition to all of the problems Anu faced in her working life, we're also given glimpses of the social/home life within Indian society. All of the rules and protocols one must follow to preserve the family's reputation are minefields that Anu must navigate all while keeping her work as a Guardian secret. I really enjoyed seeing the human side of Anu in these situations as they made a definite contrast to her work.

Overall, I loved that the location was somewhere in the world other than the usual locations for vampire lore. It brought a different feel to the story that was really enjoyable. Since this is the beginning of a series, I can't wait to see what other adventures Anu gets herself into. If you like things a little out of the ordinary in strange places, this is the perfect book for you to pick!

Tantra (The Anu Files #1) by Adi is available in both Kindle and paperback forms. The paperback was released in March 2013 by Apeejay Stya Publishing. Both versions can be bought from Amazon.com at the link provided below.
Tantra (The Anu Files #1) by Adi

Unseen by John Michael Hileman

Rating:  3.5 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Jake Paris was a regular, average guy who had a live-in girlfriend and a job that kept him on his toes. He was promoted within the company at regular intervals with high hopes of landing a position near the top of his department. That was his plan until the moment everything changed and his world crumbled around him in every way possible.

After receiving an unexpected visit from a strange old woman, Jake is seeing children in places that children would never be expected. What is more surprising to his the fact that no one else around him can see or hear them. Just Jake. He turns to his friend, Dan, for help but before they can make progress in understanding the reasons why, Jake receives news that his nephew has been abducted.

As the drama surrounding the abduction unfolds, Jake is caught between two worlds. He does his best to manage both but the stress pulls him under. He begins to doubt himself. It's only with a little bit of divine intervention that he's able to find the right thing to do. But will it be in time to not only help himself, but to help Gabe as well?

Review:
This story will not end the way you think it will. Yes, it involves a serial killer. Yes, it has children being abducted and families ripped apart. But man, does it trick you! I thought I had everything lined up and knew where it was heading only to have the rug pulled out from under me! For once, I was genuinely wrong about a plot and enjoyed it.

The characters are well written and draw you into their state of mind easily. The only hard part about the entire book was trying to decipher the dialogue of the youngest children. The author spelled it as the child would have actually said the words. The characters were flawed in a realistic way. I have to say that the only downfall to the book that I could find was that the ending seemed a little rushed. It was more like a quick tying up of loose ends rather than anything. However, the conclusion of the book was very much worth the ride to it.

This is one of those quick-to-read books that takes you on a wild ride through a bunch of twists and turns only to leave you with a good feeling toward the end. Without spoiling the entire book, I will simply say that I had to give it 3.5 stars because it was a good story that didn't drag things out or try to make itself seem larger than it truly was. Although I don't think it's one that I'll read over and over again, I definitely enjoyed it while I had it. If you're looking for something a little out of the ordinary to spend some time with, this is definitely the book to turn to!

Unseen by John Michael Hileman is available in both paperback and Kindle forms. The book was released in August 2012 by Amlin Publishing. John Michael Hileman is the author of several other books including Messages and Voices. His works can be purchased from Amazon.com by clicking the link below.
Unseen by John Michael Hileman

Moon Dance (Vampire for Hire #1) by J.R. Rain

Rating:  4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Six years after being attacked, Samantha Moon's life has seen its fair share of changes. Going from marital bliss to barely knowing herself in relation to her family would make anyone cranky. So would the intense cravings for blood that she could had to contend with alongside PTA meetings, after school activities and laundry. She may be a vampire but she is also a wife and mother.

No longer able to maintain her day job, Samantha became a private investigator. Her latest client is a mysterious defense attorney who wants her to find the person responsible for nearly assassinating him in broad daylight. Accepting the assignment leads her down the path of discovery - both for her client and herself. Are the answers worth her life? Samantha has no choice other than to find out. It's the private investigator in her.

Review:
Not only did I find this book to be enjoyable, it was a quick read that never lost my attention. So many books have explored the vampire genre that I am often times reluctant to pick them up. Not only did this book break out of the usual vampire mold, but it did so while maintaining and paying homage to some of the beloved aspects of the old school vampire mythology such as the blood drinking, daylight issues and possible death on various levels. The author's take on a fledgling vampire's "coming of age" was really refreshing as much as it was entertaining.

Given the life changing aspect of becoming a vampire, the author explores the various what-if questions that come with the transformation. Does one stop living their usual life the instant the change takes place? How does the change affect family and friends? These questions and more are asked and pondered throughout the novel. And while the answers are readily given, the main character is able to do a lot of internal reflection to find the answers which feel right within herself. That's something that anyone in this day and age can relate to on many levels.

With plenty of action, the story takes the reader from high to low and back again. To me, it was definitely a fun ride and possibly a guilty pleasure. If you're looking for something a little bit out of the ordinary in terms of the vampire mythology without crossing completely over, this is the book for you!

Moon Dance (Vampire for Hire #1) by J.R. Rain is available in either paperback or Kindle form. The paperback was originally released in April 2011 by Lulu.com publishing. Both forms are available for purchase at Amazon.com at the link below.
Moon Dance (Vampire for Hire #1) by J.R. Rain

Once Upon a Time is Now by Stephen Carpenter

Rating:  3 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Jacob Grimm discovers that his life as the boy known as Cruise Crubbel has all been a lie. He soon finds out that he had been sent away from his birthplace in order to keep his identity secret from all the things in the world that would seek him out and do him harm. After feeling compelled to return to his birthplace, Jacob is immediately thrust into a world that he only knew to exist between the covers of a book. He has to make a choice to accept the responsibilities placed upon him by his birth family, run from everything for the rest of his life or face the possibility of never seeing a year past his fifteenth.

Review:
When I began reading this book, I had no idea that the television show, Grimm, had been based upon the book. I had gotten the book based on the blurb from ereaderlove.com and thought it would be an interesting and opposite view on the Grimm fairy tales from the book, UnEnchanted that I had read a few months prior. While I like the show a lot, the book differs from the show in a number of ways. My review will be based upon the book only.

The book is written from the point of view of Jacob, the last living Grimm descendent and typical fifteen year-old. With a quick pace set fairly early, the action revs up as Jacob arrives in town and stays constant until he and his companions deal with the first set of obstacles thrown his way. The sense of urgency is felt within the descriptions of the scenes and character movements so it is easy to get lost within the action of the story.

Honestly, it felt as though the poor characters barely had a moment to catch their breath before the next thing happened. I quite liked the fact that it drove me to keep turning the page long after I knew I needed to put the book away for the night. As this is the first in a series, I can't wait to give the others a look. If you're in the mood for something a bit out of the ordinary or a different take on an familiar tale, consider this at the top of your list!

Once Upon a Time is Now by Stephen Carpenter is available in Kindle form. It can be bought from Amazon.com by clicking on the link below.
Once Upon a Time is Now by Stephen Carpenter

Seven-X by Mike Wech

Rating:  4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Eddie Hansen is a reporter who has focused his mind on one thing - scoring the biggest story, the biggest payday. He receives hints and vague insinuations about something drastic going on with the prisoners in Texas but does nothing with it until the husband of a convicted child murderer, Annette Dobson, begs Eddie to find out the truth behind her sudden wish to be cremated. We, the readers, are along for the ride as Eddie discovers the truth about Annette and others like her as well as truths about himself that he had buried deep down inside.

Review:
I was very happy to receive a copy of this book in Kindle form in exchange for an honest and fair review. Reading the blurb alone drew my attention and I couldn't wait to get started. The first few chapters of the story were a little slow but once I became accustomed to the format in which the book was written, the story began to pick up in terms of action and explanations. Most of the book is laid out in a journal-entry style with additions being made by another party.

In the case of this book, it is Eddie's girlfriend who is making the additions and placing the entries in a chronological order. That does help keep the flow of the story together and swiftly sweeps the reader along with it. I was quite thrilled that some of the characters could be seen as playing both sides of the fence. There was never a defined sense of good guys and bad guys within the story. Most of the time, the characters stayed within the grey area with only a few straying into one definite side or the other.

This book was a great read with many twists and turns that I enjoyed. I don't know if the many grammatical mistakes I found along the way were intentional or not. Given the fact that the book was written in the journal style, the mistakes could very well be taken as Eddie's mistakes and not the authors. In all honesty, that was the only thing that threw me off the story whenever I would come across them. Otherwise, great plot, great action and a lot of head scratching! If you're looking for a page-turner that will leave you wondering, this is most definitely the book for you. Just leave a light on while reading at night.

Seven-X by Mike Wech was originally released in March 2012 and is currently available in both paperback and Kindle form. It can be purchased from Amazon.com by clicking the link below.
Seven-X by Mike Wech

Synthetic: Rise of the Siren by Shonna Wright

Rating:  4 out of 5 stars.

Synopsis:
Kora is an expert in synthesizing creatures, real or imagined but she has a rule that she follows, no matter the cost. She refuses to create a vampire - period. While kept locked inside her laboratory, Kora was commissioned to create her greatest synthetic yet, Siren. The creature is beautiful beyond words and soon becomes wanted by a very wealthy client that Kora's boss cannot refuse. The Siren, along with Kora and her faithful squid companion, are whisked away to the home of the client. It is then that the truth behind the commission is revealed to Kora's horror. She must make her prized creation into a vampire or risk never leaving the grounds alive again.

In the midst of this turmoil, forgotten memories and familiar faces beg Kora to remember events best kept buried. She races to find the answers behind all of her questions while trying to save herself, the Siren and many more who come to depend on her.


Review:
Okay, I admit that when I saw that this was another new take on vampires, I inwardly groaned. No, I'm not a fan of a certain trilogy no matter how many chances I'm begged to give it. I pushed myself to give this book a chance. That was a very good decision on my part. The book doesn't try to change the vampire mythos or pretend to be some lost knowledge. Since the vampires are scientifically created, it would not be difficult to imagine that they are somewhat different than what is commonly thought of as a traditional vampire. It was refreshing to see a different way of looking at vampires, to be honest.

The cast of characters in the book also plays a big part in my enjoyment of the book. Each definitely had their own personality. Some I despised and some I felt drawn to almost immediately. I liked how the author wove several smaller storylines into the large storyline and created a fairly good read that kept me entertained for quite a while. If you're up for something a bit out of the ordinary, you should definitely consider picking this book.

Synthetic: Rise of the Siren is currently available in Kindle form. It can be found at Amazon.com at the link below.
Synthetic: Rise of the Siren by Shonna Wright