Synopsis:
Extreme circumstances dictate extreme behaviors. In a post-apocalyptic world infested by the undead, cannibalism is not only acceptable, but a necessity. In order to get by, people do whatever they feel they must.
Unwilling to let go, Nathan nostalgically preserves the one remaining relationship that he cherishes by caring for his restrained zombie mother.
An enigmatic young woman, Tempest takes dangerous jobs with the black market while trying to keep ahead of her past.
Meeting at a support group for apocalypse survivors, they discover that each may have what the other needs.
(Synopsis from Goodreads).
My Thoughts:
I've read Flesh Eaters, and Zombie Gras by Alisha Adkins, and loved them both. She is quickly becoming one of my favorite horror/zombie apocalypse survival writers. Therefore I was excited when she gave her approval for me to read a review copy of Making the Best of the Zombie Apocalypse. Unfortunately, I found the book very underwhelming, at least compared to the other books that I've read by her.
Don't get me wrong, I did enjoy most of this book. As much as it was a stupid decision on his part, it was interesting to see how Nathan dealt with the situation with his mother. It was also cool to see the dynamics of the group, and how everyone bonded together, even though they were completely different.
That being said, there was nothing in this book to set it apart from Alisha Adkins' other books. The book had the same scenario as the other zombie apocalypse books I've read by her, rehashed with a couple of different variables. The first time I read one of her books, the cannibalism aspect was new, and intriguing. It was something that I had never seen in a zombie apocalypse book before. However, by this point it's kind of boring. It no longer holds the shock value that it once did. I'm over it. Also, the ending of Making the Best of the Zombie Apocalypse was a letdown. I was expecting something so much better, and shocking.
This is the first one of Alisha Adkins' books that I've read that I didn't love. It completely missed the mark for me. However, I will continue to read her backlog because I've loved most of the books I've read by her. I can see how someone would love this if it was the first book by her that they've read.
I give Making the Best of the Zombie Apocalypse: 2.5/5.
Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://alishaadkins.com/index.html
Blog: http://rhapsodyinlime.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alisha.adkins.90
Twitter: https://twitter.com/alisha_adkins
Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/rhapsodii/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhapsodiii/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/rhapsodii
Polyvore: http://alishaadkins.polyvore.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5831214.Alisha_Adkins
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
Synopsis:
Rafe comes from a long line of shifters. His father is a werewolf, and his mother is a weretiger. As he reaches puberty, he eagerly awaits his First Shift and finding out just what is his animal form. What powerful animal will complete him?
Much to his disappointment, after going through the agony of his First Shift, Rafe discovers that he is not a wolf, tiger, or bear. He is not even a coyote or raptor, forms considered perhaps less prestigious in the tribe, but still acceptable. No, Rafe is a wererat, the only wererat in anyone’s memory.
Events work out to drive Rafe away from the tribe, to live out in the world at large. When he finally comes back for a visit, the tribe comes under attack from a group dedicated to eradicate all shifters from the face of the earth. The question is whether there is anything Rafe can do to help his tribe survive. Does he have value in a tribe of powerful shifters, or is exile the proper place for a genetic regression such as him?
(Synopsis from Goodreads.)
My Thoughts:
Every now and then, I like to step out of my comfort zone, and read books that aren't in my usual genre. I don't typically read books about shifters. It's just not my genre. I typically find them filled with a ridiculous plot, and very awkward sex scenes. However, I found myself drawn to Wererat by Johathan P. Brazee. I'm glad I read it. I ended up loving it.
Wererat was the complete opposite of your typical shifter book. It had an intense plot that kept me intrigued from being to end. The plot was very fast paced. There was so much going on in just under two hundred pages. However, the plot didn't feel rushed at all, which I enjoyed. It felt like the reader got a full story, with no loose ends. I loved seeing how Rafe dealt with being a wererat. He took something that most people would think of as a disadvantage, and used it to help, more than anyone else did. Also, for being a shifter book, there was no sex, which was a nice change of pace. In fact, I think I would consider this book a young adult book.
There were a couple of minor things that did bother me about the book. I wasn't a huge fan of the way it ended. I mean, I understand why Rafe made the decision he did. I wanted him to make the opposite decision though because of the time he spent with his family. Part of that might be because I wanted to read more of the characters though. I would love to see more of his sister. Also, I found it kind of weird that MJ let Rafe borrow her car for that long. Most typical girlfriends wouldn't do that. If I was her, I would have flipped.
Wererat is probably one of my favorite indie books that I've read recently. Even though it's not in my favorite genres, I loved most of the book. I don't know that it will happen, but I really hope that Jonathan P. Brazee writes books about the side characters in this book, especially Tabitha or Trevor. In the meantime, I plan on reading some of his other books. I recommend Wererat to anyone looking for a good book that's outside the realm of normal.
I give Wererat: 4/5.
Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://www.jonathanbrazee.com/index.html
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonathanbrazeeauthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6468805.Jonathan_P_Brazee
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
Synopsis:
With the discovery of a "legendary" pumpkin patch in the dark of the deadwoods, the witch returns in this second installment to the tale of magic and metal. The Land of Iron and Anvil is once again threatened with the dark magic of the witch, and the little robot, Anvil, along with some new and old friends, must venture into the shadowy lands of the realm to stop her wicked ways...and seal her fate.
(Synopsis from Goodreads).
My Thoughts:
For some reason, I've been on a middle grade binge reading session lately. It's all I've been wanting to read. It's unusual for me. Usually I prefer young adult books, or adult fantasy. I read the first book in the Little Orphan Anvil trilogy a couple of years ago, and loved it. Recently, I decided to pick up the sequel, The Shades of Fate. I loved it just as much as the original, if not more so.
There's just something magical about Joseph Beekman's writing style. While reading Shades of Fate, I found myself completely immersed in the story line. The Shades of Fate had a fast paced plot that kept me interested from beginning to end. It was intriguing to see how the kids solved their problems, even when a solution to the problem seemed impossible. At one point, the book even had me biting my nails, worried about how the kids were going to get out of their situation.
I loved Little Orphan Anvil: The Shades of Fate. I've read quite a few of Joseph Beekman's books, and I think this might just be my favorite one so far. He has a way of writing that make the reader feel like he or she is in the story, going on adventures with the main characters. I can't wait to read the final book in the trilogy, The Gravelands of Fate, and see how everything is wrapped up. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a good fantasy story with a twist, kids and adults alike.
I give Little Orphan Anvil: The Shades of Fate: 4/5.
Want to know more about the author?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joseph.beekman
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mesopawtamia
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6452232.Joseph_Beekman
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
Synopsis:
Just what is your cat thinking? As it gazes up at you, are those eyes filled with love and admiration or spite and scorn? From the author of the award-winning 101 Uses of a Dead Kindle and If Dogs Could Swear comes a hilarious insight into the twisted, venal, self-serving psychology of our cutest four-legged sociopaths.
Catology is a psychiatrist's view of your moggy; a brilliant, unforgettable and twisted look at the many bizarre, ridiculous and instantly recognisable scenarios in which cat owners find their beloved pets every day.
(Synopsis from Goodreads).
My Thoughts:
For those that have been following the blog for a while, you know that I'm slightly obsessed with cats. I will read anything about cats. I also love comics. When I saw Catology on NetGalley, I had to request it. It's a book of comics about how cats think. i think it would be hilarious. Unfortunately, i didn't care for it at all.
Catology seemed almost like it was trying too hard to be funny. It completely missed the mark. I was bored throughout most of the book. Also, the synopsis of the book makes it seem like there will be a more educational look at the psychosis of cats. There wasn't at all. It was just a bunch of comics that poked fun at cats particular habits.
The only reason why I am giving this book two stars instead of one is that a couple of the comics made me chuckle. All in all, I was very disappointed with Catology. I think the synopsis is incredibly misleading. I would not recommend this book to anyone. There are books that are a lot better if you wish to read something about cats.
I give Catology: 2/5.
Want to know more about the author?
Website: https://www.theguardian.com/profile/adriansearle
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SearleAdrian?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
I received this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
Synopsis:
What Rose Hennessy had longed for her entire existence was unattainable freedom, first from her oppressive father, then her vampire husband, Vickram; but Rose would not find that freedom until she fell into Connor’s arms…
In 1800s Ireland, Rose Hennessy was on her way to a convent when her human life was ended—and her true life began: as a vampire… Vickram, head of the Clan of Kandor, sired her as a vampire, and she thought herself free of all societal conventions and her father’s stern rule. However, she soon learned that her “freedom” came with a price, and that Vickram’s God complex was stifling, almost as stifling as being forced to endure his icy, dead touch… However, she soon established herself formidable, and rebelled, choosing for herself a mate, Connor Kelly… In his anger, Vickram forces the young lovers to do something drastic— and in so doing unearth one of Vickram’s best-kept secrets, the daughters of Caine himself who sired him, that he had locked away in his greed and lust for power. They become Connor and Rose’s greatest protectors and allies, who always return when truly needed…
Through them they learn that the supernatural world is on the constant lookout for the seven “artifacts of Caine”, items made with his magical staff and given to seven people throughout history, including Vlad the Impaler, Elizabeth Bathory and Sun Tzu, all of whom left their marks upon them. Though they have no desire to search for them, the items continually show up around them, including one that has made a vampire “mortal” again! When they help Mark, the re-mortalized vampire, save his wife Miranda, a wiccan, she is so grateful she gives them a potion that allows them to conceive two children: Violet and Aaron, who later develop powers of their own…
(Synopsis from Goodreads).
My Thoughts:
When I was a teenager, I was obsessed with vampire books, as I think a lot of us were. They were everywhere, and I tried to get my hands on every single one I could, and read them all. I probably read at least one hundred of them. I have to admit, as an adult, books about vampires are still a guilty pleasure from time to time, even though I'm not as obsessed with them anymore. When I read the synopsis of The White Rose of Nightfall, I knew I had to read it. It sounded fascinating. After I finished the book, I thought it was okay.
I did love the plot of The White Rose of Nightfall. I thought it was intriguing, and it kept me turning pages wondering what was going to happen to Rose and Connor. They got into some nasty situations that I wasn't sure they were going to survive. I liked seeing how they fought their way out of it, and how they adapted throughout the years. I especially liked the point in the plot where they were in Baton Rogue, Louisiana. Not only was it a turning point in the book, but Mark and Miranda quickly became my favorite characters.
That being said, I did have a couple of problems with the book, even though I did enjoy it. The author's writing needs a bit of a maturing. At times, I felt like there was things that didn't exactly make sense due to plot holes. The book did drag at times as well. Also, I don't know if it's because the book was short, but the ending felt rushed. It seems like everything wrapped up nice and quick within a couple pages, when there was more that could have been added.
On Goodreads, it says this book is the first book in a series. However, the book ended in a way where it could be a standalone. The book was published in 2011, and as of May 2017 there is no sequel. However, I really hope that the author does write a sequel. It would be interesting to see if her writing has matured since then, which I'm sure it has. I would love to hear more about the kids, and what's been happening in their lives since the ending of The White Rose of Nightfall.
I give The White Rose of Nightfall: 3/5.
Want to know more about the author?
Twitter: https://twitter.com/carlapeele
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6431664.Carla_Peele
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
Synopsis:
Lust. Anger. Hate. Desire. Love. Happiness. Joy. iFeel.
What happens when an unknowing empath meets a pixie who wears leather, a snitch who is repulsive and a fiery angel who can literally set your soul on fire? A whole lot of emotional turmoil and one love story ignited.
Liv Christianni is isolated, alone, tortured and withdrawn, saddled with the torrential downpour of the world’s emotions. Accepting of her providence Liv has lost all hope, until one day fate steps in and spins the course of her life like a spiraling top. Hunted by a Spirit Stalker, Liv is forced to gain control of herself and her surroundings, threatened by the touch of her immortal love; she must find a way to survive both physically and emotionally. Can she find the courage to accept her true self? Can she love unconditionally cognizant of the condemning consequences? Can she rise from the ashes to become the person she was always meant to be?
(Synopsis from Goodreads).
My Thoughts:
Back when it first released, I read Stripped from You and really enjoyed it. After that, I decided I wanted to try more of Marissa Carmel's books. I recently read iFeel, and unfortunately, it was a DNF (did not finish) for me at 12%. It was upsetting to me because the book has such a gorgeous cover that I wanted to love it.
I usually try to give it 50 pages, or 25% (whichever comes first) when I DNF a book. However, I just couldn't force myself to read more of the book. I read it on my Kindle Paperwhite, via Kindle Unlimited, and the formatting of the book was really messed up. There were random numbers everywhere. I think it was supposed to be page numbers, but it made no sense. Sometimes they would be in the middle of the page, sometimes on the top, and sometimes just randomly thrown in. They would repeat a lot too, which is why I said I think they were supposed to be page numbers. I couldn't really tell. Also, there would be random lines in the middle of the page, which made concentrating on the book to read almost impossible. It was distracting, and confusing to read. The pages would also stop in the middle of a sentence, which was also distracting.
I would definitely be willing to give this book another try if the formatting issues were fixed. When I DNF'd the book at 12%, the story was starting to intrigue me, but all of the formatting issues made it so it was hard to concentrate on the plot. I just kind of gave up caring about the plot. As of now, I have so many more books to read that I won't be trying this again, unless I know for certain that everything got fixed.
I give iFeel: 1/5.
Want to know more about the author?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authormarissacarmel/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/marissacarmel
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5211765.Marissa_Carmel
I was in no way compensated for this review.
Synopsis for Rose:
The grand residence of the famous alchemist, Mr Fountain, is a world away from the dark orphanage Rose has left behind. For the house is positively overflowing with sparkling magic—she can feel it. And it’s not long before Rose realises that maybe, just maybe, she has a little bit of magic in her, too. . . .
The first book in an exciting, get-lost-in-the-world series about orphans, alchemy, magical powers and sinister child-catchers.
(Synopsis from Goodreads).
Synopsis for Rose and the Lost Princess:
The second spellbinding adventure with Rose… Turning the worn pages of her spell book, Rose can’t believe how much her life has changed. Once a poor orphan, and now an apprentice to the King’s chief magician! But when the country’s beloved Princess vanishes, everything changes. As rumours of dark magic fly through the city, the King asks Rose for help. She must find the missing Princess – before all is lost.
(Synopsis from Goodreads).
Synopsis for Rose and the Magician's Mask:
A precious mask of unimaginable power has been stolen from the royal palace. Rose suspects that dark magicians are at work – and that danger looms...
The race to stop the evil thieves will take Rose to the mysterious city of Venice, where nothing is quite what it seems... Can Rose use her magic to find the terrible mask, before its true powers are revealed?
(Synopsis from Goodreads).
Synopsis for Rose and the Silver Ghost:
Time has flown since Rose left the orphanage behind, and she loves her new family at Mr Fountain's magical house. But she still can't help wondering - what happened to her real family? Were they full of magic too, like her? Then Rose discovers a clue to the mystery: a silver mirror which once belonged to her mother. A mirror with a ghost...
(Synopsis from Goodreads).
My Thoughts:
Typically, I don't read a lot of middle grade novels. I used to love them when I was younger. As an adult, I feel that I am so beyond the intended audience that the magic and wonder is lost on me. However, I've been on this kick lately where all I want to read is middle grade. I'm glad that I am. I read all of the Rose series by Holly Webb in one day, and I loved it. It brought all of the magic and wonder back into reading middle grade novels.
Holly Webb has a way of writing books that make you believe you are there right beside Rose, in Victorian London, experiencing the same thing that Rose is experiencing. For a middle grade novel, the author created a complex, intricate world that was absolutely beautiful. I love the magic system that she created. It was great to see how Rose, Mr. Fountain, and Freddie explored their talents, and became stronger magic users throughout each book. I loved seeing their progression from the beginning of Rose, to the end of Rose and Silver Ghost. My only problem with the series as a whole was that it was very predictable. By the first few chapters of Rose and the Magician's Mask, the third book in the series, I had already guessed most of the plot twists in the book, and was correct.
The Rose series was full of a fantastic cast of characters. I can't think of a single character that I disliked. Even Gossamer, the main villain in the series, was charming in his own way. Even though I liked all of the characters, my favorite was Gus. This should be no surprise for those of you that have followed my blog for a while, and know how much I love cats. I didn't just love him because he was a cat though. I also loved how protective he was of Rose. He might have seemed harsh, and pushed her to her limits sometimes, but that was because he wanted her to evolve her magic, and grow stronger. I also loved his snarky sense of humor.
I loved the Rose series. Even though it was predictable at times, it provided me with a lot of enjoyment. I noticed on Goodreads that Holly Webb has books with names of some of the minor characters in the Rose series, such as Maisie, and Lily. I'm not sure if the books are related to the Rose series, but I plan on reading them to find out because I want more of this world. I recommend this series for kids looking for a quick, fun fantasy read.
I give the Rose series: 3.5/5.
Want to know more about the author?
Website: http://www.holly-webb.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HollyWebbOfficial
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HollyKateSkeet
I received this series from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
