Review: Arise by Tara Hudson

Arise by Tara Hudson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Amelia finds herself in a dangerous situation as dark spirits pose a threat to her loved ones. Determined to protect them, she resolves to take action. Meanwhile, Joshua, with his own motivations, agrees to meet Amelia at a cemetery in New Orleans. Together, they plan to partake in a significant ritual within the Voodoo Circle, fully aware that this decision will have lasting and transformative consequences.

While I found some aspects of the book engaging, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. One aspect that I appreciated was the continuation of the paranormal elements and the exploration of the ghostly world. The concept of ghostly abilities and the interaction between the living and the dead were intriguing and added depth to the story. The author's descriptive writing style helped to create a vivid atmosphere, immersing me in the supernatural world.

However, I felt that the pacing was inconsistent throughout the book. At times, the story moved at a slow pace, making it difficult to stay fully engaged. Additionally, I found some plot developments to be predictable, which diminished the element of surprise. I had hoped for more twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat.

Character development was another aspect that left me wanting more. While some characters showed growth and had compelling arcs, others felt underdeveloped and lacked depth. I would have liked to see more exploration of their motivations and inner struggles.

Despite its flaws, the book still provided an entertaining read.

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Review: Crescendo (Hush, Hush, #2) by Becca Fitzpatrick

Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In Nora Grey's life, challenges persist despite her encounter with a guardian angel who saved her from danger. Patch, her enigmatic and attractive guardian angel, has been behaving strangely, growing more elusive and spending time with her nemesis, Marcie Millar. As Nora tries to make sense of Patch's distant behavior, the return of Scott Parnell, an old family friend, further complicates her emotions. Although Scott's infuriating attitude draws her in, she can't shake the feeling that he's hiding something.

Haunted by visions of her deceased father, Nora begins to question whether her Nephilim heritage played a role in his murder. Determined to uncover the truth, she risks her safety by delving into dangerous situations. However, as she gets closer to the truth, she realizes that some secrets are best left buried, as they have the power to destroy everything and everyone she holds dear.

I did find the story entertaining with the progression of the facts. Other than that the story did not really do anything for me.  This book did not intrigue me as much as the first one. I felt myself just being annoyed with all of the characters. Nora was her usual whiny self with an annoying attitude and a self-serving attitude. Patch just pissed me off from the beginning I wanted to okay his reasons but he was just a jerk throughout everything. No one communicates with one another and they all just make everything worse for everyone in the long run. If Patch and Nora would actually talk to each other many of their problems really wouldn't be an issue.

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Review: Bad Moon Rising by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Bad Moon Rising by Sherrilyn Kenyon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fang Kattalakis, a powerful wolf and the brother of influential members of the Omegrion, finds himself caught in the midst of a war among the lycanthropes. As alliances shift and enemies unite, Fang's loyalty and love are put to the test. When the woman he loves is accused of betrayal, Fang must decide whether to believe in her innocence and defy his own people. In order to save her, he risks breaking the laws of his kind and betraying his brothers. The consequences of his actions could have far-reaching effects, potentially bringing an end to both their races and forever changing their world.

Bad Moon Rising, the seventeenth installment in Sherrilyn Kenyon's captivating Dark-Hunter series, is a spellbinding roller coaster ride through a world teeming with supernatural beings, intricate alliances, and passionate romances. This book combines the best elements of paranormal fiction, weaving together an enthralling story that will leave readers craving more.

Kenyon's masterful storytelling takes readers deep into the intricate mythology of her universe, introducing us to a rich tapestry of characters that have become beloved fixtures in the series. In Bad Moon Rising, she expertly expands the scope of the narrative by interweaving the storylines of the Dark-Hunters, Were-Hunters, and Hellchasers, creating a seamless blend of action, intrigue, and forbidden romance.

One of the standout features of Kenyon's writing is her ability to create deeply complex and relatable characters. In this installment, she introduces us to compelling new protagonists while also revisiting beloved familiar faces. Each character is distinct, with their own strengths, flaws, and emotional baggage, making it easy to become fully invested in their journeys. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and the romantic relationships are both steamy and emotionally satisfying.

The world-building in Bad Moon Rising is nothing short of extraordinary. Kenyon's attention to detail and her ability to seamlessly integrate supernatural elements into our modern world is truly commendable. From the bustling streets of New Orleans to the treacherous supernatural realms, every setting comes alive with vivid descriptions and atmospheric charm. The action-packed sequences are flawlessly executed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate through battles, treachery, and heart-stopping confrontations.

What sets Bad Moon Rising apart from other paranormal romance novels is Kenyon's ability to infuse deeper themes and social commentary into her storytelling. She tackles issues of prejudice, redemption, and the power of love in the face of adversity, adding layers of depth that resonate long after the final page is turned.

As a long-time fan of the Dark-Hunter series, I can confidently say that Bad Moon Rising does not disappoint. It is a testament to Kenyon's talent and imagination, showcasing her ability to craft a gripping narrative that leaves readers yearning for more. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the series, this book is a must-read for anyone who craves a thrilling and emotionally satisfying supernatural adventure.

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Book Review: City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments, #1)

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


2.5 stars

In the first book of the Mortal Instrument series Clary is astounded to find she can see things other people can’t. With the help of Jace and the rest of the Shadow hunters Clary has to discover her past to protect everyone’s future.

From first reading the Internal Devices prequel series I really expected more from this one. It might be that the Victorian era was more sophisticated than the modern era but I found the writing style in City of Bones to be immature and weak. I was completely surprised by the characters that I found lacking in well-roundedness and knowledge, unlike I found from Internal Devices. I will strive to continue on with the series just to see what happens and I am interested in watching the movie but I was seriously expecting a lot more out of this series that what I am getting.

MOVIE:
I thought the movie was a lot better than reading the actual book. I would recommend skipping the reading and just watch the movies.



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Book Review: Smite The Damned by Zack Kullis

4 stars
Genres: Paranormal, Demons, Violence
Format: Kindle Edition
Published in July 2011
Where to Buy: Amazon, Barnes and Noble
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Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis from Goodreads:

When Keith Da Silva finally confronts the dark circumstances surrounding his mother’s death, his eyes are opened to the darkness that is waging an ancient war against humanity. Keith is violently confronted by demonic forces, shattering his view of reality, and fights for his life with beings of unspeakable evil.

In Smite the Damned, legions of spirits and demons fight alongside an ancient evil, the Nephilim, that have been hiding among their human prey. Keith is asked to help keep the dark forces at bay, and becomes a hunter of the damned. But, his role as a hunter soon brings pain and death to his family and friends. With only a few people to help, Keith takes the battle to the forces of the Dark Lord, and ultimately, is pulled into a fight within a grand demon’s personal realm.

My Review:

I have to say I was utterly amazed by the writing style Kullis set forth to make this book.  It was the perfect mix or creepily unnerving mixed with intriguing.  The descriptions of the plot and characters were fantastic adding another depth to the story as a whole. 

What reader doesn’t love a hero with a tragic past as the main character?  The action scenes were also thrilling and believably written.  It was definitely an entertaining read that I would recommend to people that would like an entertaining and exhilarating story. 

About the Author from Goodreads:

I write horror, dark paranormal, genre fiction, and occasionally fantasy.

My writing is a result of a person that grew up seeking and reading anything dark, scary and full of visceral escapism.

I work full time for the FBI. Please don't ask about it because I can't talk about it.

ARC Review: A Prescription for Delirium (Van Helsing Organization #1) by Noree Cosper

4 Stars

Genres: Fantasy/Paranormal, demon

Format: ebook

Expected publication: December 1st 2012

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

Synopsis from Goodreads:

Ninety years ago, Gabriella di Luca promised to protect the family of her dying lover. She failed to keep that promise. She was too far away to stop the devil that murdered the eldest Van Helsing son. Years later, Gabby learns the devil has resurfaced. She arrives in Hampton, TX, determined to stop the devil before it can lay a bloody hand on the remaining three brothers.

However, madness is spreading through Hampton. She suspects the devil is using this madness to test a drug which has a side effect of demonic possession. Gabby rushes to end the source of the madness only to fall victim to it. For a woman cursed with eternal life, dying is no threat. However, Gabby must stop the devil's plot or risk losing her most precious possession: her mind

My Review:

Cosper displayed a wealth of knowledge about the underworld and supernatural beings.  She was believably able to develop a vast world of different hierarchies and complex creatures.  Although, with her vast amount of knowledge some parts seemed to be lacking the explanation needed for someone that was not so well versed in the subject.

My favorite character throughout the entire work was Gabby.  Even though her life is cursed she has a positive outlook on life and a goal that is getting her through.  She remained dedicated to protecting her family.  Marguerite Devereux was an amazing foil and contrast to Gabby’s character.  Marguerite was a symbol of what Gabby could have become letting revenge consume her. 

On a different level the Van Helsing men, Esais, Adrian, and Tres were complicated and each individual personality was able to show through.  They each had their own burden to bear and while all the characters had the same goal they were not really a team.  The lack of trust between them added new dimensions to their characters and the inner struggles they had to face. 

About the Author