[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Wild Justice

Kelley Armstrong has been telling stories since before she could write. Her earliest written efforts were disastrous however, in her opinion. If she was asked for a story about girls and dolls, hers would invariably feature undead girls and evil dolls, much to her teachers’ display. All of her efforts to produce “normal” stories failed. Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves and witches, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon.

Kelley is the author of the New York Times bestselling WOMEN OF THE OTHERWORLDparanormal suspense series, the DARKEST POWERS and DARKNESS RISING young adult urban fantasy series, and the NADIA STAFFORD crime series. She also has a newly debuted series,CAINSVILLE , another new book Loki’s Wolves – THE BLACKWELL PAGES book #1 written with Melissa Marr, and another series, AGE OF LEGENDS coming in 2014!

Keep up with Kelley online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Wild Justice, book #3 of the NADIA STAFFORD Series

   by Kelley Armstrong

Buy from Amazon / B&N / Indiebound

Synopsis:

The long-awaited final installment of the #1 New York Times bestselling author’s Nadia Stafford series

Since Kelley Armstrong wrapped up book two of the Nadia Stafford series, fans have been eager to know what happens to the tough-as-nails contract killer. At last, Wild Justice brings Nadia back for the series’ thrilling conclusion—an action-packed tale that will dazzle fans of the series as well as those who are only familiar with Armstrong’s bestselling paranormal books.

In Wild Justice, Nadia is confronted with her most difficult task to date: going after the man who killed her cousin Amy twenty years prior. But when it turns out that someone else has already taken justice into their own hands, she is drawn into a complex situation where everything she knows and loves is thrown into the path of danger. Nadia is forced to take matters into her own hands, ultimately requiring her to confront her darkest secrets—and her deepest desires—in a way that she never thought possible.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:

Wild Justice was an incredible conclusion to a wonderful crime drama series, and worth the wait (even though it sucked to have to...). :)

Our heroine, Nadia Stafford, is a former police officer turned assassin. She also owns and runs a wilderness lodge in Canada. She is independent, tough as nails, and a little quirky. Her moral code is a little different than most assassins, wherein... she has one. She generally only takes jobs that border on vigilantism, righting a wrong where justice wasn't served as it should have been. Her past built her that way, and instead of turning inward, she uses her dark sides to 'help others, while using her double life to live the way she's always wanted.

Wild Justice starts out with a bang. There is a job that goes awry, and it messes with Nadia's head a bit. After this, Kelley fully immerses us in a whirlwind of revelation, mystery, character growth, action, drama, emotion and heat. We learn that things we suspected in previous books about Nadia's past are correct (and even worse than we had imagined), we learn more about the mysterious Jack, the clandestine society that has been courting Nadia is revealed and its true colors are shown, the persons responsible for Nadia's tragic past are heavily involved in the storyline and make for some gripping page time, Jack and Nadia finally stop dancing around the inevitable, and it's all tied up nicely with a bunch of action, drama, and intrigue.

I was very pleased with the conclusion of the series. It felt 'real' to me, and was true to the characters - nothing seemed forced or hurried. Kudos to Kelley for giving us NADIA STAFFORD fans what we had been waiting and hoping for. Still (and probably forever) a Kelley Armstrong fangirl!

Wild Justice

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Born in Blood

Alexandra Ivy is the New York Times bestselling author of the GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY, SENTINELS and IMMORTAL ROGUES series.

Alexandra graduated from Truman University with a degree in theatre before deciding she preferred to bring her characters to life on paper rather than stage. She currently lives in Missouri with her extraordinarily patient husband and teenage sons.

Connect with Alexandra: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

Born in Blood, THE SENTINELS Book #1

   by Alexandra Ivy

Publication Date: 12/31/13

Buy from Amazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM

Synopsis:

In a stunning new paranormal romance series—even edgier than her bestselling Guardians of Eternity books—New York Times bestselling author Alexandra Ivy lures readers into the dark, seductive world of the Sentinels—humans outcast by their hidden abilities, treading the line between life and death, good and evil, pleasure and pain…

Born In Blood

Sergeant Duncan O’Conner has seen it all before. A beautiful erotic dancer is found murdered in her home—no suspect, no motive. But there’s one clue: she’s missing her heart. It’s enough to make the hard-bitten Kansas City cop enlist the help of a necro—one of the dead-channeling freaks who live in the domed city of nearby Valhalla. It’s a long shot, but desperate crimes call for desperate measures.

Unlike the other “high-bloods” in Valhalla, Callie Brown considers her abilities a gift, not a curse. But when she reads the dancer’s final thoughts, she senses a powerful presence blocking her vision. This is no ordinary homicide. This is the work of a legendary necromancer who controls souls. A ravenous force that will put Callie’s skills to the test, O’Conner’s career at risk, and both their hearts on the line…literally.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:
*ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review

--Actual rating 4 1/2 Skulls

Born in Blood was an awesome start to what is looking to be an amazing new series by the ever talented Alexandra Ivy!

This first installment delivers some fabulous characters, an interesting new world, danger, action, intrigue, and just enough romance to keep you flipping pages with rapt interest.

Premise: High-bloods, those with preternatural abilities, are known about, but not overtly accepted. In order to minimize the hostility from the norms, the gifted generally hang out in Valhalla (a parallel dimension). There are times, however, when the 2 worlds must collide, as is the case when our hero Duncan and heroine Callie come together to investigate a string of murders with seemingly supernatural causes.

Born in Blood was dark yet witty, mysterious yet solidly built.. basically the perfect balance between urban fantasy and paranormal romance.

I've been an Alexandra Ivy fangirl for QUITE awhile, and am absolutely loving this peek into the new corner of her imagination. I can't wait for more!

Born in Blood

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Red

Bianca D'Arc is way more than just an author! She is a former chemist with more letters behind her name than we could ever hope to have and an artist. We’re not talking about being an artist just with her pen and computer, though that can’t be disputed! We actually meant with a paint brush and a guitar, since those are 2 of her hobbies when she’s not creating fantastical worlds for us to get lost in. Outside of that, she’s an avid bargain hunter and LOVES to shop!


Her background in science has come in handy in her writing, as she enjoys mixing her real-world knowledge of science with her vast imaginary world library. She writes in many genres and mixed genres, but concentrates most of her work in the paranormal, sci-fi, fantasy and futuristic realms with some contemporary and urban fantasy thrown in for the heck of it. As fans, we can honestly say that we wouldn’t want it any other way!

Bianca’s series include: RESONANCE MATES, BROTHERHOOD OF BLOOD, DRAGON KNIGHTS, TALES OF THE WERE, JIT’SUKU CHRONICLES, STRING OF FATE, GUARDIANS OF THE DARK ARCANA, STARLORDS, and REDSTONE CLAN. She also has single books out categorized under series for future expansion: GEMINI PROJECT, GONE COUNTRY and GIFT OF THE ANCIENTS.

Connect with Bianca online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Red, REDSTONE CLAN Book #1/TALES OF THE WERE Book #5

   by Bianca D'Arc

Buy from Amazon / B&N / Smashwords /Diesel

Synopsis:

A water nymph and a werecougar meet in a bar fight... No joke.

Steve Redstone agrees to keep an eye on his friend's little sister while she's partying in Las Vegas. He's happy to do the favor for an old Army buddy. What he doesn't expect is the wild woman who heats his blood and attracts too much attention from Others in the area.

Steve ends up defending her honor, breaking his cover and seducing the woman all within hours of meeting her, but he's helpless to resist her. She is his mate and that startling fact is going to open up a whole can of worms with her, her brother and the rest of the Redstone Clan.

Trisha's had to hide her special abilities most of her life, but with her brother's Army buddy - the guy they call Red - she's finally free to be herself. He calls to her in a way she's never experienced before and while bad guys keep trying to abduct her, he's her safe port in the storm. But can such dangerous beginnings lead to a life-long love?

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:
--Actual rating 3.75 Skulls

I'm a long time Bianca D'Arc fangirl, and Red was another great read by Ms. D'Arc. It had hot steamy romance, a mystery, some fabulous action, characters you couldn't help but love, etc, but it just felt a little rushed to me, and that's why I couldn't give it the high 4 and 5 skull rating I've come to auto-give Bianca's books.

Basically you have a gaggle of women out for a Bachelorette party in Vegas, but this time, what happens in Vegas can't stay in Vegas as the women are targeted by an unknown assailant. Luckily Trisha, our heroine, has a super overprotective older brother who asks his military buddy Steve (Red) to keep an eye on his little sister. With the help of his brothers, the local wolf pack, and some allied vampires, Steve is able to protect Trisha, get to the bottom of the mystery and save lives, all while finding the one woman made especially for him.

Despite my note that TO ME it felt a little rushed, it was still a great read, and if you're fine with the feel of a PNR Novella as far as pace, but with the gift of more page time, I highly suggest reading Red, especially if you've been a fan of the series since the beginning when it spun off and became it's own beautiful creature.

Red

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[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Believe

USA Today and New York Times Bestselling author Erin McCarthy sold her first book in 2002 and has since written almost fifty novels and novellas in teen fiction, new adult, and adult romance. Erin has a special weakness for New Orleans, tattoos, high-heeled boots, beaches and martinis. She lives in Ohio with her family, two grumpy cats and a socially awkward dog.

Connect with Erin online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Believe, TRUE BELIEVERS Book #3

   by Erin McCarthy

Release Date 1/21/14

Buy from Amazon / B&N 

Synopsis:

Robin used to be a party girl… until she got black out drunk and woke up in bed with her best friend’s boyfriend. Now she’s faced with being THAT girl, and couldn’t be more disgusted with herself. She can’t even tell her friends the reason for her sudden sobriety and she avoids everyone until she meets Phoenix—quiet, tattooed, and different in every way that’s good and oh, so bad…

Phoenix is two days out of jail when he meets Robin at his cousin’s house, and he knows that he has no business talking to her, but he’s drawn to her quiet demeanor, sweet smile, and artistic talent. She doesn’t care that he’s done time, or that he only has five bucks to his name, and she supports his goal to be a tattoo artist.

But Phoenix knows Robin has a secret, and that it’s a naïve dream to believe that his record won’t catch up with them at some point. Though neither is prepared for the explosive result when the past collides with the present…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley

--Actual rating 4.5 Skulls

Third instalment of the True Believers series by this established author and a different type of book from her. Like many readers I am used to her sports romances and have also enjoyed Ms Mccarthy's paranormal offerings but this is very definitely a young adult book with all the trials and angst that can happen when starting out in the world.

Robin is a young woman away from home at college and still learning all about herself. The one thing she's sure about is that she doesn't want to be just a good time girl but staying strong is hurting both her and even her friends. Having spent a drunken night in the arms of her best friends boyfriend Robin is determined to cleanup her act as she hates herself for what she's done. Only problem is no one else knows about her shame and she's trying to keep it that way.

Phoenix is the sort of guy who deserves his bad reputation. Recently released from prison for a violent assault he would be the first to admit that he's not exactly the answer to a maidens prayers but when he meets Robin at his cousins house there's something about her that just calls out to him. Used to hard faced women this strangely haunted young woman just looks so sad and Phoenix never could resist a sad woman. After all she's probably sad because she's a loyal sort and that's an attractive quality in the eyes of Phoenix. What's even better is the fact that she talks to him and doesn't seem to judge him in any way.
What starts out as a mild curiosity quickly grows into something all consuming as Phoenix and Robin begin to connect on so many levels. A friendship isn't enough and finding someone who just accepts Phoenix the way Robin does just blows his mind! Robin can't resist this tattooed loner but she doesn't trust anyone with her dirty secret. Phoenix isn't stupid though and he realises that something dramatic has happened to Robin . He most certainly is not going to rest until he's found out what or who has hurt her! What they have together is powerful but they both carry baggage from their past that could rip their new found happiness apart!

I wasn't really sure what to expect from this book as I hadn't read the previous books in this particular series but I can honestly say that I stayed up and finished it in one go! I found it impossible to put down as the characters just called out to me. The writing resonates with emotion and Robins sense of guilt felt so heartfelt. As for Phoenix well I just wanted someone to love him as he's a character to capture your heart. If anyone deserves a happy ending then it's definitely this troubled guy.

So if you are looking for a book with strong characters and a storyline that drags you in then this could well fit the bill. What starts out as a tragedy of sorts rushes to a well deserved happy conclusion. Nobody said love was easy but these two characters truly fight for theirs.

Believe

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of In A Heartbeat

Josie Cara lives in NYC with her family and two King Charles Cavalier dogs, Zak and Zoe. Her love of books has always been a big part of her life but she never had the time, between working and caring for her children, to concentrate on writing. Now she has the time to take all the stories she's been writing in her head and put them down on paper; something her family and friends have been encouraging her to do for some time. A whole new world has opened up to her and she is enjoying every minute of it.

Connect with Josie: Website / Facebook / Twitter / GoodReads

In A Heartbeat

   by Josie Cara

Buy from Amazon

Synopsis:

When debilitating headaches and strange nightmares start wreaking havoc on budding artist Josie Bryant’s life, she begins a downward spiral into depression and helplessness. Her once heavenly relationship with her fiancé - gallery owner Ethan Donnelly - starts to fall apart, and everything Josie held dear starts to systematically fall away.
After startling information is received about Josie’s past, she and Ethan embark on a quest to gather as much information as possible in a last ditch effort to save their relationship, and possibly Josie’s life.
Unfortunately, sometimes things are better left alone. Will Josie be able to handle the truth? Will her lifelong need for a loving family be realized, and if so, is it worth the cost? Can Josie and Ethan’s love really conquer all, or will it all come crashing down in a New York minute?

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:
*eARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review

I will admit, I don't usually read books like this - contemporary romance, women's literature, etc - but I am really glad that I took a chance on In A Heartbeat. Unlike anything I've read before, and nothing like the reservations I had for this type of fiction, it was emotionally charged and full of surprises. In a word, it captivated.

The heroine, Josie, is so much like me in so many ways it was hard not to get lost in her tale. She suffers from awful migraines that begin to take over her life and cause tension at every turn. Her fiance does his best to be supportive, but when you don't suffer from something like that yourself it's difficult to truly understand, not to mention men who truly love you just begin to feel helpless and frustrated. And he really and truly loves her!

The surprises that Josie introduces in the story are intriguing, interesting, and fresh, and with those surprises we get an antagonist that you want to slap. Repeatedly. :)

With just a touch of paranormal goodness that gets rounded out and explained beautifully in the end as something utterly mundane, Josie Cara delivers a dramatic and fresh new novel, and it's very evident that this story came from a very special place within the author's heart and was a labor of love long in the making.

Take a chance on In A Heartbeat!

In a Heartbeat

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Slashback

Rob Thurman is currently writing three series for Penguin Putnam's imprint ROC FANTASY, as well as a brand-new mainstream series for Simon & Schuster's POCKET BOOKS.
Rob has also written for a Charlaine Harris & Toni L.P. Kelner Anthology, WOLFSBANE AND MISTLETOE. This year, Rob contributed a post-apocalyptic, "grim" faerie tale Western to the anthology, COURTS OF THE FEY.

Rob's work is dark, non-stop action from beginning to end, rife with purely evil sarcasm as sharp as a switchblade - and probably nearly as illegal. If one shoved LORD OF THE RINGS,
THE SHINING, and PULP FICTION into a wood-chipper, the result would be what Rob aims to deliver in a novel or short story.

A member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA), ROB THURMAN lives in RURAL Indiana - land of endless fields, infinite cows and where dialup is still the only soul-crushing option.

Connect with Rob:  Website / Facebook / Twitter / GoodReads

Slashback, CAL LEANDROS Book #8

   by Rob Thurman

By from Amazon / B&N

Synopsis:

Something is skinning humans alive and leaving the remains around New York City for bragging rights. Brazenly confident and competent in their abilities, Caliban and Niko Leandros make a living catching supernatural killers. Yet this particular supernatural killer hearkens back to years before, when Cal and Niko were just children forced to fend for themselves from the serial killer next door, and fend—and kill—is exactly what they did. Now as adults, their childhood nightmare has returned and he wants revenge at any cost.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Alluring Angel – Kathy:
--Actual rating 4.5 Skulls

Slashback, the 8th book in Rob Thurman’s Cal Leandros series, is a gritty, good vs. evil compelling read. The bond shared between brothers Cal and Niko is the driving force that propels this story.

Slashback finds Cal and Niko thrust into the crosshairs of a supernatural killer unlike any that they have encountered before. How do you fight and kill something that seemingly can’t be stopped? Sometimes you just got to take of leap of faith and when the only thing you have faith in is each other, that leap can be a deadly one.

The action in Slashback is nonstop. And the “us against the world” mentality of the Leandros brothers, continues to tighten the brotherly bonds.

Slashback grabs the reader’s attention from the start and doesn’t let go until the end.

Slashback

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of The Havoc Machine

Steven Harper Piziks was born in Saginaw, Michigan, but he moved around a lot and has lived in Wisconsin, Germany, and (briefly) Ukraine. Currently he lives with his three sons in southeastern Michigan.

His novels include In the Company of Mind and Corporate Mentality, both science fiction published by Baen Books. Writing as Steven Harper for Roc Books, he has produced The Silent Empire series. He’s also written books based on Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica, and The Ghost Whisperer, as well as the movie novelization Identity, which he managed under a deadline of only three weeks. His numerous short stories have appeared, among other places, in all but one of Esther Friesner’s Chicks in Chainmail anthologies and in all of her humorous suburban fantasy anthology. Currently he’s working on The Clockwork Empire steampunk trilogy for Ace Book.

Connect with Steven: Website / Facebook / Twitter / GoodReads

The Havoc Machine, CLOCKWORK EMPIRE Book #4

   by Steven Harper

Buy from Amazon / B&N

Synopsis:

In a world riddled with the destruction of men and machines alike, Thaddeus Sharpe takes to the streets of St. Petersburg, geared toward the hunt of his life….

Thaddeus Sharpe’s life is dedicated to the hunting and killing of clockworkers. When a mysterious young woman named Sofiya Ekk approaches him with a proposition from a powerful employer, he cannot refuse. A man who calls himself Mr. Griffin seeks Thad’s help with mad clockwork scientist Lord Havoc, who has molded a dangerous machine. Mr. Griffin cares little if the evil Lord lives or dies; all he desires is Havoc’s invention.

Upon Thad’s arrival at Havoc’s laboratory, he is met with a chilling discovery. Havoc is not only concealing his precious machine; he has been using a young child by the name of Nikolai for cruel experiments. Locked into a clockwork web of intrigue, Thad must decipher the dangerous truth surrounding Nikolai and the chaos contraption before havoc reigns….

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Alluring Angel – Kathy:
--Actual rating 4.5 Skulls

The Havoc Machine by Steven Harper is a steampunk gem. It is the 4th book in his The Clockwork Empire series, but is written in such a way that The Havoc Machine could be read as a stand alone.

A plague has swept across the world, turning it’s victims into slowly dying plague zombies, with a few victims becoming mad geniuses referred to as clockworkers. Thaddeus Sharpe’s son is killed by a clockworker, and so he dedicated his life to finding and destroying clockworkers and their horrible creations. The Havoc Machine is a fast paced, action filled adventure with an unexpected amount of heartfelt emotion.

I truly enjoyed The Havoc Machine.

The Havoc Machine

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Bronze Gods

Ann Aguirre is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author with a degree in English Literature; before she began writing full time, she was a clown, a clerk, a voice actress, and a savior of stray kittens, not necessarily in that order. She grew up in a yellow house across from a cornfield, but now she lives in sunny Mexico with her husband, children, and various pets. She likes books, emo music, and action movies. She writes all kinds of genre fiction for adults and teens.

Connect with Ann: Website / Facebook / Twitter / GoodReads

Bronze Gods, APPARATUS INFERNUM Book #1

   by A.A Aguirre

Buy from Amazon / B&N / BAM / Book Depository / Powell's / iTunes

Synopsis:

Hy Breasil is grimmer than it used to be.

Before the Architect closed the door, there were regular crossings, and a great war decimated both humans and Ferishers. The native fae who refused to treat with the invaders faded; their bodies withered and died, stranding them as hungry, angry spirits that haunt the countryside.

That means there’s always trouble brewing in Dorstaad.

Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko work for the Criminal Investigation Department, keeping citizens safe from things that go bump in the night. He’s a hardboiled cynic with an uncanny sixth sense; she’s determined to justify her promotion as the first female detective in her division. Together, they’re trying to keep a black tide from drowning the city.

But when the second body surfaces, murdered with the same type of infernal device, the entire CID must face the truth. There’s a madman on the loose, twining magic and blood… and only Mikani and Ritsuko can unravel the intricate, lethal conspiracy before the Royale killer completes his macabre plan, unleashing old, forbidden magic on an unsuspecting populace. If the maniac succeeds, it could mean the end of everything…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Alluring Angel – Kathy:
Bronze Gods by A. A. Aguirre is a mix of fantasy, steam punk and crime solving mystery. I liked the story and the two main characters quite a lot, but I must admit that I found some of the plot lines kind of predictable.

Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko are two police detectives. He is a wild card with the ability to read people. She is logical and methodical. They couldn’t be more unalike and yet together they solve more cases than anyone else in the Criminal Investigation Division. When they are assigned a missing persons case, they discover more is at hand that a lost heiress. Following several deaths, the city becomes a powder keg and Mikani and Ritsuko must sift through scant clues and try to stop a magic using killer before mob violence erupts.

The chemistry between Mikani and Ritsuko propels this story. Bronze Gods is the first book in a new series and I plan to read the next installment when it is released.

Bronze Gods

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Generation V

M.L Brennan: My first novel, Generation V, was published by ROC Books and is a work of urban fantasy. I am currently working on the second Fortitude Scott book, Iron Night, which will be published by Roc in January 2014.

I cut my baby bibliophile teeth on my older brother’s collection of Isaac Asimov and Frank Herbert, but it was a chance encounter with Emma Bull’s War For The Oaks as a teenager that led to genre true love. Today, I’ll read everything from Mary Roach’s non-fiction to Brandon Sanderson’s epic fantasies, but I’ll still drop everything for vampires and werewolves in the big city.

I hold an advanced degree in the humanities, and I am currently working as an adjunct professor, teaching composition to first-year college students.

Connect with M.L online:  Website / Facebook / Twitter / GoodReads

Generation V, AMERICAN VAMPIRE Book #1

   by M.L Brennan

Buy from Amazon / B&N 

Synopsis:

Reality Bites

Fortitude Scott’s life is a mess. A degree in film theory has left him with zero marketable skills, his job revolves around pouring coffee, his roommate hasn’t paid rent in four months, and he’s also a vampire. Well, sort of. He’s still mostly human.

But when a new vampire comes into his family’s territory and young girls start going missing, Fort can’t ignore his heritage anymore. His mother and his older, stronger siblings think he’s crazy for wanting to get involved. So it’s up to Fort to take action, with the assistance of Suzume Hollis, a dangerous and sexy shape-shifter. Fort is determined to find a way to outsmart the deadly vamp, even if he isn’t quite sure how.

But without having matured into full vampirehood and with Suzume ready to split if things get too risky, Fort’s rescue mission might just kill him.…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Alluring Angel – Kathy:
--Actual rating 4.5 Skulls

I love it when I discover an author who’s writing captures me from page one. Generation V is M. L. Brennan’s first foray in a full length Urban Fantasy. And what a debut. Generation V introduces us to Fortitude Scott, the good hearted and slightly dorky guy who happens to be a vampire. Well, almost a vampire. M. L. Brennan’s take on the creation of vampires is original and creepy.

When a mother and father are murdered and two young sisters are kidnapped, Fortitude believes that it is the sadistic work of a visiting vampire. But because of vampire politics, Fort’s mother won’t take any action regarding the missing human children. So with the help of a smart mouthed Kitsune, he decides to try to save the girls himself. But taking on a vampire when you are not yet fully vampire yourself, odds are not in your favor.

The author’s deft hand at witty dialogue and snort worthy snark combined with a dark and bloody story line, makes Generation V a book that I would recommend to all fans of Urban Fantasy. Fortitude Scott is a one of a kind hero. Can’t wait to read the next installment.

Generation V

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of The Accidental Werewolf 2

Dakota Cassidy lives for a good laugh in life and in her writing. In fact, she almost loves a good giggle as much as she loves hair products and that's saying something.

Her goals in life are simple, (like really simple): banish the color yellow forever, create world peace via hot rollers and Aqua Net; and finally, nab every tiara in the land by competing in the Miss USA, Miss Universe, and Miss World pageants, then sweeping them in a stunning trifecta of much duct tape and Vaseline usage, all in just under one week. Oh, and write really fun books!

Dakota lives in Texas with her two sons, her mother, more cats and dogs than the local animal shelter and has a husband who puts the heroes in her books to shame.

Connect with Dakota online at her Website on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

The Accidental Werewolf 2: Something About Harrt, ACCIDENTALLY Book #8

   by Dakota Cassidy

Buy from Amazon / B&N 

Synopsis:

He’s in a furry situation.

Accountant Harry Ralph Emerson has always been a by-the-numbers kind of guy. But when he finds himself trapped at work sprouting an obscene amount of hair, he knows his odds for maintaining normalcy are zero to none. After a frantic internet search, Harry goes through the OOPS—Out in the Open Paranormal Support—checklist and comes to a disheartening conclusion: He’s turning into a werewolf and he needs help ASAP.

She might be the only solution.

Werewolf Mara Flaherty has long carried a torch for Pack Cosmetics’s sexy single accountant, even after her attempt to seduce him went down in flames. When her sister-in-law, Marty, shows up to handle Harry’s OOPS emergency, she tasks Mara with showing the hirsute hottie the ropes. But Mara knows Harry’s condition is a result of her lab experiment gone wrong—and the previously mild-mannered object of her affection is about to give her a piece of his mind.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Vivacious Valkyrie – Marta:

*eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Well Dakota Cassidy has done it again and written another hilarious offering in her popular Accidentally Friends series, this one is number 8 I believe and sure to delight her fans.

Shy werewolf Mara Flaherty has carved a career for herself as a chemist at Pack cosmetics but there are just two things she still really wants. One is a child of her own and the second? Well that just happens to be the uber sexy but conservative accountant Harry Ralph Emerson. Only problem is Harry seems oblivious to her fumbling overtures and there's no one else she's that attracted to. Using her skills she creates a serum that could help her get pregnant with her own werewolf cub but problem is it gets drank by mistake and unfortunately the unlucky person is Harry and suddenly he finds himself not just an accountant but an accountant sprouting fur!

Not given to panic Harry goes online and finds an organisation calling themselves Out In The Open Paranormal Support -OOPS- and having done their quiz comes to the worse possible conclusion, that he's turning into a werewolf! Calling them for help he gets more than he bargained for as the snarky vampire on the phone just doesn't seem to appreciate his predicament. When help does arrive Harry quickly learns that not only has he changed but just about everything he believed in was a lie as well.

Finding out he's been working with supernatural creatures is just the beginning . Mara, who he'd secretly liked is responsible for his transformation and he's expected to keep it a secret as she would be in trouble with her pack. Mild mannered Harry suddenly finds himself at the mercy of his inner beast and it looks like he knows just who to unleash it on.

Mara's mortified at what's happened but together with her friends is convinced they will be able to help Harry if only he would let them! Finding out he has two small children at home to look after complicates things and the small matter of Maras libido where Harry's concerned doesn't help, but when the children are threatened Harry and Mara have to work together.

These books are usually a riot and this one was no different. Ms Cassidy writes a delightful contemporary paranormal tale that's full of fun. Not intended as dark or particularly erotic but warm, amusing fantasy. Her rich characters jump off the page and although not always likeable (snarky vampires!)they are vibrant and full of life. Frequent popular culture references had this reader laughing out loud but what remains with me is the loving and close relationships that her characters share. A delightful read to brighten the dullest day!

The Accidental Werewolf 2: Something About Harry

 

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Risky

National Bestselling author Jo Davis is best known for her popular Firefighters of Station Five series written as Jo Davis, and her dark, sexy paranormal series Alpha Pack, written as J.D. Tyler. PRIMAL LAW, the first book in her Alpha Pack series, is the winner of the National Reader's Choice Award in Paranormal. She's also been a multiple finalist in the Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence, a finalist for the Bookseller's Best Award, has captured the HOLT Medallion Award of Merit, and has been a two-time nominee for the Australian Romance Readers Award in romantic suspense.

Jo's books regularly appear on the Neilson Bookscan, Barnes and Noble, BooksOnBoard, and Amazon bestseller lists, among others.

Jo is currently at work on a new contemporary romance series titled SUGARLAND BLUE for NAL/Signet Eclipse, a spin-off of her Firefighters of Station Five series scheduled to debut in April 2013 with the kick-off novella ARMED AND DANGEROUS. Book 1, SWORN TO PROTECT, is being released May 7, 2013. She's also publishing a new FBI series, ARMED AND DEADLY, set to debut in April 2013 with ONE LAST KISS. Jo lives in Texas with her two kids and a cute Boston terrier.

Connect with Jo online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Risky, TORN BETWEEN TWO LOVERS Book #2
by Jo Davis

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Synopsis:
TORN BETWEEN TWO LOVERS is a gripping and sexy romance trilogy with a unique twist: Our heroine needs your help to decide who wins her heart…RISKY is the second novella in this sizzling new series, in which two enticing men will vie for Anna’s heart—culminating in a choice that will be determined by reader vote!

Still hurting badly from Grayson Sloan’s betrayal, Anna Claire meets Joaquin Delacruz—and she is completely won over by the wealthy and sophisticated casino mogul. Joaquin is like no one else she’s ever known—insanely sexy, passionate. . .and extremely dangerous.

Joaquin’s fortune is built on crime; but unlike Gray, he hides absolutely nothing from her. Soon she finds herself ensnared in the web of a powerful, magnetic man who can’t—and won’t—promise her forever.

But Joaquin is used to getting what he wants, and he wants Anna. He is even starting to dream of going legit and living a normal life, with Anna by his side. That is, if Anna's ex, the FBI agent who is his most hated enemy, doesn't get in his way. . .

So, will you join #TeamJoaquin or #TeamGrayson? Make the informed choice: Check out RAW, the first in the series, and REWARDED, where Anna’s decision will be revealed, in February 2014.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Vivacious Valkyrie – Marta:
*eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

The is the second instalment in the "Torn Between Two Lovers " trilogy and follows immediately on from "Raw". It's an interesting concept as the author intends to open up her Facebook page to allow readers to vote and therefore determine the outcome of the trilogy.

Anna Claire felt betrayed by Grayson Sloan, FBI agent at the end of Raw. He had been working undercover at her Manhattan restaurant in a bid to take down a drug ring. Feeling badly used and deceived by him Anna has fled to Aruba to lick her wounds. Nursing her broken heart she is determined to just try and forget about men!

Anna's life is about get more complicated as she has been followed by Joaquin Delacruz, a man who her ex Gray is determined to bring to justice. Joaquin is everything Anna wants in a man except for his families shady past. His family's fortune is built on a bed of crime and although he's trying hard to go legit his enemies fear what he might reveal about them.

Anna is impressed by Joaquin's honesty with her and finds herself falling for his charm. What starts out as a lighthearted affair soon hurtles both Anna and Joaquin into a passionate relationship that can only result in heartbreak and danger!

I found this a very interesting read as I wasn't quite sure how the author could make such a quick change of heart for Anna believable. In the first book she's madly in love with Gray and yet shortly after she's falling for the admittedly gorgeous Joaquin! I think I am convinced but that's only because I thought Anna was quite a shallow character and truthfully didn't really like her as much as I wanted to. Although to be fair to be a winner in business she would have to be completely selfish and dedicated.

So how will it all end and just who will Anna end up with? If honest I have my own idea of what could happen but it's fun to think that the readers get to choose. Third book in this trilogy is Reward and all that's left to say is - are you team Grayson or Team Joaquin?

Risky

 

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Full Throttle

USA Today and New York Times Bestselling author Erin McCarthy sold her first book in 2002 and has since written almost fifty novels and novellas in teen fiction, new adult, and adult romance. Erin has a special weakness for New Orleans, tattoos, high-heeled boots, beaches and martinis. She lives in Ohio with her family, two grumpy cats and a socially awkward dog.

Connect with Erin online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Full Throttle, FAST TRACK Book #7

   by Erin McCarthy

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Synopsis:

Easing into the turns…

As one of only two girls on the tween racing circuit, Shawn Hamby has always run with a fast crowd. But now at thirty-two, she doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone. And she definitely doesn’t need a man bossing her around off of the track…

Putting the pedal to the metal…

But after a silly girls’ night at a fetish club, Shawn can’t get Rhett Ford out of her mind. He’s younger than her, and he’s her best friend’s brother-in-law, which should be red flags. Rhett is looking for someone to lead in bed, but he can’t imagine that Shawn would ever submit to him. Boldly surrendering is more her style. And with Rhett behind the wheel, it’s going to be one wild ride…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Vivacious Valkyrie – Marta:
*eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Full Throttle is the latest offering from Erin McCarthy in her Fast Track series. This series features strong women, determined men and is set within the racing world. This her seventh novel in the series takes the reader on a ride behind the scenes of this male dominated world.
Shawn Hamby has recently lost her grandfather who raised her when her parents broke up. He taught her all he knew about running his racing circuit and at thirty two all she dreams about is keeping it afloat. She's always been a bit of a tomboy and isn't afraid to work hard for what she wants but her world is about to come crashing down when she finds out the conditions in her grandfather's will.

On a wild night out with friends at a local fetish club Shawn meets Rhett Ford, seven years her junior and her best friends brother in law. Fearing the complications and unsure about his obviously dominating nature Shawn backtracks quickly away from him but Rhett has other ideas. Tracking her down he tempts her as no other man has for a long time .Shawn's used to playing by her own rules and she takes him up on his offer of a drink. Whilst enjoying his company she has a crazy idea how to solve her problem over her grandfather's will and offers him a challenge. Rhett is determined to get to know this woman inside and out , both in and out of the bedroom and it looks as if the race is on!

Ok this is my first book by this author but that didn't detract in any way from this read. I don't feel it's essential to have read this series in order to enjoy this book. Whilst I'm not a great fan of books set in the sporting world I found that this tale hardly featured the racing world at all. The action and story are set away from it and it's a completely wild story. Whilst not wishing to give too much away I will say that Rhett has a very kinky side. He's determined to ensure his ladies maximum satisfaction even if she's not sure what she wants. Be prepared for long slow loving from a very dominant man! I liked Shawn as she's a confident woman who deserves happiness and Rhett is written as a very loyal and straight talking character. This is an author who knows how to write and this sensuous romance was a very satisfying read. Sure to delight her fans and I enjoyed it from start to finish!

Full Throttle

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of The Grove

Jean Johnson currently lives in the Pacific Northwest, has played in the SCA for 25 years, sings a lot, and argues with her cat about territorial rights to her office chair. She loves hearing from her readers, and has a distinct sense of humor. Right now she's living in a home with zone heating & decent plumbing, but hopes to some day put turrets and ramparts on it so that it looks like a castle.

Connect with Jean online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

The Grove, GUARDIANS OF DESTINY Book #2

   by Jean Johnson

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Synopsis:

Calm the magics caught in thrall:
Put your faith in strangers’ pleas,
Watcher, Witch, and treasure trove;
Ride the wave to calm the trees,
Servant saves the sacred grove.

At the behest of their leader, the Witches of Darkhana are mobilized. Their mission: gather the most honest, true servants of each deity so that they may respectfully represent their land at the reopening of the Convocation of Gods and Man. For Witch-Priest Aradin Teral, his part in the quest has taken him across the length and breadth of Katan, searching for the best possible representative of an empire bent on preventing that very task.

Ever since the destruction of the last Convocation, the magics of the Grove have been warped, endangering pilgrims and residents alike and requiring the guardianship of the strongest mage the priesthood can spare. Priestess Saleria is now the Keeper of the Grove, and Guardian of the Divine Garden. The arrival of a black-robed stranger bearing the faces of two men brings the promise of change, even peace, to the isolated valley. But it also ushers in an irresistible passion and a threat to Saleria’s control of the wildest magics in the woods...

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION’s Vivacious Valkyrie – Marta:
*eARC received from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

This is my first book by this author and follows on from her previous offering in this series The Tower (Guardans of Destiny). This is a fantasy with a sprinkling of romance and is set to delight fans of her previous Sons of Destiny series.

In a land full of magic we meet the Witch Priest Aradin Teral, he has been sent on a quest to locate a suitable representative of the Kingdom known as Katan to meet with the Gods and Goddesses at the upcoming Convocation of Gods and Man. The Gods that have helped to protect mankind have been missing since the world splintered and now it's vital that humanity entreat them to save the world from the things that live in their Hellworld. Prophecies are starting to come true and the Seers in the world are beginning to see changes that could herald vast destruction.

Aradins journey takes him to Saleria the woman who as a priestess is Guardian of The Grove, a famed, magical garden where a God and Goddess once united. Left far too long the magic the land is imbued with has begun to run wild and strange and dangerous hybrids run amok threatening nearby homes and lives. Saleria struggles on a daily basis to contain the deadly creatures and drain the fearsome magic. Charged with the prayers and petitions for her Gods her life is full of toil and sorely lacking in peace.

Her world begins to change the day she meets Aradin Teral for he is a priest unlike any who have ever crossed her path. The young man Aradin carries the soul and consciousness of Teral and together they form a formidable Witch Priest. Not truly convinced that her path lies away from the Grove Saleria nevertheless allows Aradin access to the Grove in order to learn its secrets. As she slowly begins to trust the unusual pairing her feelings for Aradin grow but leaving the Grove could be deadly. Surrounded by dark magic and at the mercy of those with political ambitions Aradin and Saleria must find a way to control the threat before it's too late.

Wow such an unusual world. A society that follows their Gods and the teachings of their priests. Although a simple outlook in many ways the author manages to imbue her work with a strong sense of humanity and it's petty feelings of jealousy and greed. I loved that Saleria although truly dedicated to her calling still managed to find it possible to fall in love, it would have felt dry and boring without the two(should that be three?) main characters as their personalities lifted this tale .Absolutely adored the conversations between Aradin and Teral as at times they were hilarious but for me Saleria's love of life shone through.

A complicated story that is sure to delight Ms Johnson's fans and a good read for all those who enjoy fantasy and a romance for those like me who are just old fashioned romantics at heart.

The Grove