Posts

Second Chance (The Flowers in December Trilogy, book 3) by Jane Suen – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Second Chance (Flowers in December #3)Second Chance by Jane Suen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Second Chance is the third and final book in Jane Suen’s Flowers in December trilogy. The previous book, Coming Home, saw Connor giving up on the city life that he’d worked so hard for in favour for a healthier, happier life for himself and his cat Tom. Mary Ann struggled to get over Connor when she thought he’d moved back to the city for good and now needs to decide whether to give him a second chance.
This is a warm book that’s easy to enjoy. At times cliché – a chance encounter in the grocery store followed by a snowstorm that forces them to spend time together – but enjoyable nonetheless. There are misunderstandings that the characters need to overcome and over the course of the book they learn to communicate with each other.
It was nice to see Alana and her mother, Mrs Rainer together and see how their relationship has continued to develop after the end of the previous book. Mrs Rainer is one of my favourite characters in this series and is a reassuring presence in the story and Connor’s life.
For me, this is a four star book. A comforting read for a winters evening. It’s definitely worth reading the trilogy in order – the books aren’t very long and it’s good to see the characters and their relationships develop over time.

View all my reviews

Singles and Other Singularities (The woman Scientist Trilogy 2- The Italian Saga Book 8) by Gaia B Amman – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Singles: ...And Other Singularities (Woman Scientist Trilogy 2, The Italian Saga)Singles: …And Other Singularities by Gaia B Amman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Singles And Other Singularities is the second book in Gaia B Amman’s Woman Scientist trilogy, a continuation of her Italian Saga. The Saga follows the life of Italian scientist Leda as she grows up. At this stage in the story, Leda is settled in Buffalo conducting research under the unforgiving guidance of Dr Scrui. Working hard to keep up with the constant demands of her studies, Leda is also involved in an array of romantic dramas.
With a series like this, it is hard not to get attached to the protagonist. The story is told from her perspective, mixing first person narration with epistolary emails and the poetry Leda is writing. This keeps things varied and the emails are a great way of keeping us up to date with what’s going on back in Italy!
Like in the other books, there’s a huge amount of romantic drama in this book. It’s not all Leda’s own drama – with many friends confiding in her she gets tangled up in their dreams and woes as well. With the stress of her academic work, and an ill sister to worry about, Leda really needs stable friendships she can rely on which is hard with all the drama.
For me, this is a four star book. It’s similar in tone to the Adrian Mole series – if you liked that you’ll love this! It was great reading about Leda’s childhood in Italy and seeing her getting to grips with American culture is very entertaining.

View all my reviews

Maggie (Maggie Trilogy Book 1) by Mya O’Malley – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

MaggieMaggie by Mya O’Malley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Maggie is the first book in Mya O’Malley’s Maggie Trilogy. It’s a thrilling ghost story with plenty of mystery and suspense.
Our heroine, Naomi, finally overcomes her writer’s block when a ghost from the cemetery that backs onto her garden starts haunting her. Determined to tell Maggie’s story, Naomi is torn between creating a fictional version of events and uncovering the truth. With spooky dreams giving Naomi and the reader glimpses into Maggie’s fate as the book progresses, we are drawn into her story.
I particularly like Zelda, Naomi’s cat. Zelda plays a hugely important role in the story by first drawing Naomi’s attention to Maggie’s grave, and is always up to various antics. Full of character, Zelda is a great companion for Naomi and a catalyst (CATalyst!) for events.
There’s also a strong cast of (human) secondary characters. I was amused by Naomi’s friend Amy’s unfortunate attempts to set Naomi up with dates. I was entranced by little Holly’s instant affection for Naomi and her father Bryce’s warmth.
For me, this is a four star book. It kept me on edge throughout – a real page-turner. I’d recommend for fans of the paranormal. A great book to snuggle up with on a cold, dark night!

View all my reviews

Misplaced (Joined Book Two) by Mara Gan – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Misplaced: Joined: Book TwoMisplaced: Joined: Book Two by Mara Gan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mara Gan’s Joined series is one that moves between different genres. The first book was science fiction, with a space opera feel to it. The second book, Misplaced, is a mythological fantasy set in Ancient Greece. They are held together by character and story but the world has a completely different feel to it.
I particularly liked Meda in Joined and love how her character is developed in Misplaced. She has woken up in this strange world with no memories of her past, besides her name. She is struggling to survive, going to desperate lengths to protect others and herself. The world she has found herself in is one of corrupt power and unjust rules, where doing what is right can get her into a lot of trouble.
As before, the world building was fantastic. There were plenty of recognisable figures and events from history and mythology, as well as vivid scenes such as markets and forests. I could really picture the environments Meda was in!
For me, this is a five star book. I’d recommend reading from the start of the series if you’re after a rich fantasy that will take you to some wonderful places.
I’m really excited to see where this story goes next, and how it develops further. After Joined and Misplaced, it feels like anything could happen!

View all my reviews

Earl of Darby (Wicked Earls’ Club) (Once Upon A Widow Book 4) by Aubrey Wynne – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Earl of Darby (Wicked Earls' Club) (Once Upon A Widow Book 4)Earl of Darby (Wicked Earls’ Club) by Aubrey Wynne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Earl of Darby is the fourth book in Aubrey Wynne’s Once Upon A Widow series. It’s a historical romance with a bit of tragedy and mystery thrown in. The eponymous hero, Nicholas the Earl of Darby, is haunted by his fateful marriage that ended with his wife’s death on their wedding night. He is seeking revenge, struggling to trust any women after being lied to by his mother, and is generally a bit of a mess.
Hannah is more than a match for Nicholas and, when she is in danger of meeting a similar fate to his wife, his protective instincts kick in. With Hannah’s friendship with Nicholas’ young sister, Mattie, she is more than just a love interest and her character is developed and interesting.
Although part of a series, this book can work as a standalone. The series follows different characters in each book, with the characters then appearing as side characters in each other’s books. But if you enjoy this, you’ll love the others so you might as well read them! This one’s kind of a Christmas story but you could get away with reading it at other times of the year.
For me, this is a four star book. I’d recommend it to fans of regency stories, with a warning that it does feature rape and suicide.

View all my reviews

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Borne (Book 3) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Magic-Borne (The Crown of Stones, #3)Magic-Borne by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Magic-Borne is the third and final book in C. L. Schneider’s The Crown of Stones series. It is an epic fantasy series that centres around Ian Troy, a Shinree whose fate is intertwined with that of the magical Crown of Stones.
This series has fantastic world-building. I’d definitely recommend starting at the beginning to get more of the details. There are many different races and species characters with different motivations and alliances. There is a long history that influences current and future events.
One thing that I particularly like about this series is that all magic comes at a cost. Troy, and others, do not use their powers without careful consideration – the benefits are always weighed up with the consequences. This is particularly true for Troy, whose magic usage is gradually turning him into a monster. As someone who regularly finds himself in situations when lives – his or others – are on the line, he often has to make the choice between saving lives or staving off his seemingly inevitable downfall.
I’ve really enjoyed this series. For me, this is a five star book. Fans of big fantasy series like Lord of the Rings and Eragon will love this magical, action-packed story.

View all my reviews

The Unholy by Paul DeBlassie III – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

The Unholy: A Supernatural TaleThe Unholy: A Supernatural Tale by Paul DeBlassie III
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Unholy by Paul DeBlassie III is a supernatural horror story that draws on a number of spiritual traditions to provide a rich background to the characters and their experiences. The title refers to the antagonist, Archbishop Anarch, whose quest for power and fortune within the church has led him to moral and spiritual corruption.
Claire is one of the few people working at the Ecclesia Dei Psychiatric Hospital who isn’t a member of Anarch’s congregation, and so is outside of his control. She brings to the hospital her in depth knowledge of both natural therapies and mental health work, drawing on her educational background and her upbringing amongst medicine women. She is committed to her patients and critical of some of the hospital’s approaches to caring for them.
As well as her battle against the corrupt Archbishop, Claire is fighting against her own destiny. She is called to follow in her mother’s footsteps to be a medicine woman but has resisted this call as she is afraid that it will lead to her death. Having reached the age of 25, the age her mother was when Claire witnessed her violent death, Claire is increasingly worried about what her future holds.
One of my favourite characters was Francesca, Claire’s spiritual guide and foster mother. I liked how down-to-earth and observant she was, and how often Claire referred to her wisdom.
For me, this is a four-star book. If you’re looking for a battle between good and evil with a deep spiritual background and some interesting characters, this is worth a read!

View all my reviews

Pigs by Daniel James – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

PigsPigs by Daniel James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pigs by Daniel James is an action packed crime novel, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers on their feet. It follows Isaac, newly released from prison and determined to stay away from the life that got him locked up – a life that isn’t going to let him go so easily.

The book opens with a fairly graphic torture scene which sets the tone for the rest of the book. If you find that uncomfortable, you won’t enjoy the book. Personally, I’m not a huge fan of graphic violence but it added to the tension which got me hooked.

This is the kind of book where you can never really relax. Like Isaac, you’re always looking over your shoulder, never feeling safe. Although much of the story comes from Isaacs perspective, occasionally chapters show us what other characters are up to giving us a broader perspective and time to let Isaac stew.

Pretty much everyone in this story is a criminal, but James achieves a variety of motivations and personal morals which make it easy for readers to pick a side. I particularly liked Grace, who prefers to talk people into doing her bidding to avoid having to use her gun.

For me, this is a five star book. A real page turner, with plenty of interest and action to flesh it out. Once I got going, I struggled to put it down!

View all my reviews

Chasing Clay (The DeWitt Agency Files Book 3) by Lance Charnes – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Chasing Clay (The DeWitt Agency Files, #3)Chasing Clay by Lance Charnes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Chasing Clay is the third book in Lance Charnes’ The DeWitt Agency Files series. It’s a thrilling crime mystery, following ex-con Matt as he attempts to complete a mission for the agency that is guaranteed to bring his probation to an early end – either with his freedom or his incarceration.
Like the rest of the series so far, Chasing Clay focuses on art theft. As the name suggests, this book centres around ceramics. This was fascinating to read – I’m pretty sure all of the art crime books I’ve read so far have been about paintings so it was great to learn about a different art form with all of the history and culture surrounding it. Helpfully, Matt is also a bit out of his depth with ancient Asian ceramics so as he studies we get useful bits of information.
It’s a clever, action-packed book. The characters have understandable motivations (and reservations about what’s happening). It’s got plenty of mystery to keep you turning the pages!
I came into the series at this book, and I found I could follow the story well enough. Everything’s and everyone’s introduced to you and you get plenty of background. So if you’re particularly interested in ceramics you could jump in here. Having been captivated by this book, though, I’d now like to go back and read the previous two!
For me, this is a five star read. I’d recommend it to fans of art and mystery, particularly anyone interested in Thailand.

View all my reviews

Goddess of the Wild Thing by Paul DeBlassie III – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Goddess Of The Wild Thing: A Dynamic Spiritual JourneyGoddess Of The Wild Thing: A Dynamic Spiritual Journey by Paul DeBlassie III
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really didn’t know what to expect when I picked up Paul DeBlassie III’s Goddess of the Wild Thing. It stands out from other books I have read as a rich paranormal fantasy that draws on spiritual and psychological ideas to create a fascinating world and gripping story.
DeBlassie’s descriptive writing particularly caught my attention, with the level of detail and vivid language used really painting a picture. At times, I felt this slowed down the progress of the story or made it hard to keep up, but at others it really painted a picture for me.
The central characters are a group of four women – Eve, Shirley, Tanya and Samantha. It’s nice reading a book where the characters are a bit older and have experienced more in their lives. The characters are strong and not afraid to disagree with each other which leads to some interesting conflicts. Although it’s a story about love, it’s good to have such a focus on friendships that outlast the ups and downs of romantic affairs.
For me, this is a four star book. I found it very interesting, and it was good to read something a bit different! I’d recommend it to fans of the paranormal who are after a book that will keep them on the edge of their seat.

View all my reviews

Hidden Tracks by Zoe Lee – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Hidden TracksHidden Tracks by Zoe Lee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hidden Tracks by Zoe Lee is a romance that focuses on the music industry. Seth is a talented songwriter and musician who has re-joined his old band after living a quiet life for half a decade. Astrid is a former actress who used to be married to a rock star and is now a music journalist, writing a piece on Seth’s band.
It’s a sweet, slow-moving story. Both characters have lived. They’ve fallen in love and had their hearts broken. Astrid has a grown-up daughter. They’ve been in the limelight and stepped out of it, and are now on the brink of being pulled back in.
Astrid’s role as a journalist is quite handy in learning about Seth and his bandmates. There are formal interviews, and other occasions where informal discussions include probing questions (or less probing – “Dogs or cats?” is one!).
I particularly like the way Lee talks about sound – both musical and environmental. This struck me from the very beginning where Seth’s acoustic environment is described – “every subtle groan of the three-story house he had grown up in was like a vibrato note sung by a baritone.”. This is effective not only in painting a vivid picture of the scene, but also in giving us an insight into how Seth experiences the world.
For me, this is a four-star book. I’d recommend it to music lovers, particularly anyone who’s ever dreamed of getting together with a rock star!

View all my reviews

Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery, #3)Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Diamonds & Deception is the third book in Ellen Butler’s gripping Karina Cardinal Mystery series. We’ve had art theft, we’ve had assassination, and now we’re onto jewellery theft. Karina seems to get tangled up in everything!
Karina is a lobbyist whose past escapades have built her a network of talented, helpful people who are ready to leap into action when trouble comes. And trouble does always come. She’s resourceful, dedicated and doesn’t take no for an answer. There’s a brilliant scene where she can’t access her apartment as a man (who had the clever idea to get high on a weeknight) thinks there is a dragon in there. She’s tired, wants to go to bed, and so sets the imaginary dragon on him and walks through the door.
In this book we get to see a lot of Karina’s sister, Jillian. It’s good to see the supportive relationship between the sisters, how readily they come to each other’s aid. It is Jillian’s friend, Sadira, who is accused of stealing diamonds. What at first seems to be a simple misunderstanding escalates as the sisters learn more about Sadira and come up with more and more questions.
Diamonds & Deception is a real page-turner! It’s a great mystery, that keeps you on the edge of your seat. This is an exciting series with plenty of variety and brilliant characters – I would recommend starting at the beginning with Isabella’s Painting to enjoy the story as it unfolds. For me, this is definitely a five star book!

View all my reviews

Devil’s Dilemma: Satan’s Devils MC (Colorado Chapter #4) by Manda Mellett – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Devil's Dilemma (Satan's Devils MC Colorado Chapter #4)Devil’s Dilemma by Manda Mellett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Devil’s Dilemma is the fourth book in the Colorado Chapter branch of Manda Mellett’s Satan’s Devils MC series. As I’ve come to expect from the series, it’s an action-packed romance that’s at times tragic and heart-warming.
Melissa is the protagonist of this one. I was particularly drawn to her because of her love of baking – I read a good chunk of this book while waiting for things in the oven! She’s uncomfortable about her weight and worries about her appearance but grows to trust others and how they see her and overcome some of her anxieties.
The path to a happily ever after is rarely smooth, and for Melissa there are some pretty big twists and turns along the way. It’s a real page-turner, and particularly satisfying as things start making sense.
As well as continuing the story of the Colorado Chapter, Devil’s Dilemma gives us an insight into the Vegas chapter of the MC. I really like how the stories link together, allowing us to catch up with familiar characters and introducing us to new characters who we’ll see developing later. There really is a sense of family and it adds depth and makes you care a lot more about the characters.
For me, this is a four-star read. I’d never read any MC books before I started on this series, and it’s got me hooked! There are various places you could start – perhaps at the beginning of the main Satan’s Devils MC series or in the first Colorado Chapter book. Or, you can jump in here and discover the Satan’s Devils through Melissa’s eyes!

View all my reviews

Hitting The High Note (A Four Horsemen Novel Book 3) by C A King – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Hitting The High Note (A Four Horsemen Novel Book 3)Hitting The High Note by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hitting the High Note is the third book in C.A. King’s fantasy series of Four Horsemen Novels. The series takes place in a modern day setting with a beautiful and elaborate mythology at its heart. There are demigods and demons, fighting over the fate of the world. There are horsemen and there are keys – soulmates tied together by their destiny.
As the title suggests, the protagonist of Hitting the High Note is a musician. Bekka has worked in her family music shop all her life, and it seems likely she will continue running it unless she plucks up the courage to audition for an orchestra. I enjoyed how the music was threaded through the plot – I’ve always been a fan of musical magic! I also appreciated Bekka’s taste for tea – the descriptions of her making and drinking tea made my mouth water!
This series is fantastic – the world is well developed and complex and the mythology links in with various familiar mythologies whilst still being unique and surprising. The characters at the centre of each book continue to appear in the background of subsequent books, so it’s great to catch up on them. And Uriel, the horseman this book focuses on, has already appeared in the past so I was eager to learn more of his character.
I would recommend reading the books in order, to get the full story, although King does a good job of reminding readers of what has happened so you could probably get away with reading this on its own if you’re particularly after a fantasy book about music.
For me, this is another five star book. It’s a great series, and I’m particularly excited about having a music-focused book! I’d recommend the series to fans of mythology and urban fantasy. Looking forward to reading the next one!

View all my reviews

Dark Feathers by Natalina Reis – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Dark FeathersDark Feathers by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dark Feathers is a paranormal romance by Natalina Reis. It is a standalone novel, set in the same world as her book Lavender Fields with many characters appearing from the earlier book. It follows Phoenix, a dark angel sent to spy on Joan, a young woman who could see him when he was supposed to be invisible to humans. Joan’s search for a roommate provides the perfect opportunity for Phoenix to keep an eye on her, and (of course) fall in love.
Reis has a well-established system of angels, and Lavender Fields has already given us plenty of insight into the trouble they can get into. Although much of the world-building has been done before, Phoenix being a dark angel gives Reis a chance to explore more of the system and remind or introduce readers to the world from a different perspective.
Joan is a caring, loveable character. Her passion for baking speaks of her commitment to making others happy, and she is quick to note Phoenix’s favourite type of cookies. Phoenix is at times broody and reclusive, and Joan works hard to cheer him up and bring him out of his shell. As someone whose life experience so far has consisted almost entirely of pain and suffering, including sexual abuse, the positive and loving relationship does wonders for Phoenix, who reciprocates by setting out to protect Joan regardless of the cost.
This is an enjoyable page-turner of a book – definitely five stars! I would recommend it to fans of angel romances (and, let’s face it, who doesn’t enjoy a good angel romance?). You can definitely enjoy this book without having read Lavender Fields, but for me it was really great seeing how Caleb and Sky were getting on.

View all my reviews

Journeys Through SpaceTime (Journeys Through Book 1) by James Talisman – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/1 Comment/in /by

Journeys Through SpaceTimeJourneys Through SpaceTime by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Journeys Through SpaceTime is James Talisman’s debut novel, and the first in his Journeys Through series. It sits on the border between sci-fi and fantasy, with a story that transcends an array of times and places.
The story begins with an introduction to the different worlds we will encounter in the book, as characters in every setting have a similar, unsettling experience. Their stories unfold as they seek to understand the experience, and the reader seeks to understand what connects the strands of the story.
Talisman clearly has a passion for world-building, and readers are given a rich and detailed description of the many worlds the story inhabits. For the most part, it is easy to keep track of although there were times when I wished I had a paperback copy so I could refer back to the Dramatis Personae. The settings each very much have their own character, ranging from modern-day Earth to alien worlds that evoke ancient civilisations, each with their own cast of interesting and developed characters.
For me, this is a five-star book. It is a complex story that demands your full attention, and rewards with a rich tapestry of worlds held together by an original and engrossing story. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author!

View all my reviews

Not Fade Away (Interstellar Rescue Series Book 4) by Donna S. Frelick – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Not Fade Away: Interstellar Rescue Series Book 4Not Fade Away: Interstellar Rescue Series Book 4 by Donna S. Frelick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Not Fade Away is an exciting science fiction book by Donna S. Frelick, the fourth in her Interstellar Rescue Series. It focuses on the characters of Del, a retired hero whose limited mobility and dementia means he needs to be cared for by his son, Rescue agent Rafe, and Charlie, a home care nurse in the American town Del and Rafe are hiding in. On the periphery are characters who have been the focus of earlier books, including Gabriel, Lana, Rayna and Sam.
I like how the Interstellar Rescue Series juxtaposes alien worlds and spaceships with normal, everyday Earth. The focus on dementia in this book is particularly poignant and works well within the plot. We get glimpses into Del’s past in the form of flashbacks that leave him disoriented and saying things that Charlie can’t quite make sense of.
Charlie has a dog, Happy, who is a wonderful addition to the cast! Happy and Del develop a very special relationship and Happy comes into his own warning Charlie and Rafe when they are in danger. Space, romance AND a dog – what more could you ask for?
I’ve been enjoying this series so far. The stories kind of work independently but it’s worth starting with the first book, Unchained Memory, to get more of the world-building and start meeting the characters. For me, this is a five star read which I would recommend to sci fi fans who enjoy stories with alien abductions and other interactions between the terrestrial and extraterrestrial.

View all my reviews

OF WAR AND TATERS by Ashley Chappell – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Of War and TatersOf War and Taters by Ashley Chappell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Of War and Taters by Ashley Chappell is a whimsical mystery with an endearing cast of characters. As I started reading the book I found it hard to figure out what kind of book it was supposed to be and where the story was going – it seemed like we were being shown a bunch of relatively unconnected events. But as the story progressed, everything began coming together and making sense (well, a bit of sense at least!).
At the centre of the story is a theme of gossip and misleading journalism that is all too familiar in our “post-truth” world. Stories are blown out of proportion or even fabricated for dramatic effect, and even threaten to become self-fulfilling prophecies.
There are characters for everyone to enjoy. The Upper and Lower Jelly River gangs are rival groups of mischievous, inquisitive children who have been thrust into the spotlight. They remind me of characters in books like Swallows and Amazons – sworn enemies until they find something else to team up against. Then there’s the Sherriff (double “r” intended) who seems to be doing quite well for someone whose usually quiet town has been turned upside down. There’s a circus to rival The Greatest Showman, with some excellent characters like Goliath the giant and Chaz the astigmatic ape. There’s Monty the thespian ghost, who reminded me somewhat of Gordon Way in Dirk Gently. I could go on! It’s an eclectic, endearing cast.
For me, this is a five star book. It’s entertaining, engaging and different. If you enjoy books that are both very clever and very silly, such as the works of Douglas Adams and Tom Holt, I would definitely recommend it!

View all my reviews

Fools Rush In (Interstellar Rescue Series Book 3) by Donna S. Frelick – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Fools Rush In (Interstellar Rescue, #3)Fools Rush In by Donna S. Frelick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fools Rush In is the third book in Donna S. Frelick’s Interstellar Rescue Series. It’s got more of a classic sci-fi feel than the previous two books which I really enjoyed.
A prequel to the previous two books, Fools Rush In gives us the backstories of Sam and Rayna who we’ve encountered before as secondary characters. It’s great to understand more of their motivations and to see them getting to know each other when we already have an idea how things will end up.
I have enjoyed all of the series so far, but Fools Rush In has definitely been my favourite. I felt that the story was more focused, and I could really get absorbed in it. The space ship setting gave it a decidedly Star Trek feel, with enough originality that it has its own character. There are space pirates (space pirates! Pirates! In space!) and plenty of action and mystery to balance out the romance.
For me, this is a five star book. It works as a stand-alone and is an excellent addition to the series. I’d recommend starting at the beginning with Unchained Memory to enter Frelick’s exciting universe from a mundane and relatable Earth, but if you’re after a stand-alone space romance then this is a great choice!

View all my reviews

Trouble in Mind (Interstellar Rescue Series Book 2) by Donna S. Frelick – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Trouble in Mind (Interstellar Rescue, #2)Trouble in Mind by Donna S. Frelick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Trouble in Mind is the second book in Donna S. Frelick’s Interstellar Rescue Series. As the name suggests, it is an action-packed science fiction series. There’s plenty of mystery and excitement, as well as romance along the way.
The Interstellar Rescue Series juxtaposes a rich extra-terrestrial sci fi setting (one can see the influence of Star Trek, amongst others) with modern day earth. As with the previous book, Unchained Memory, we see people trying to come up with mundane explanations for crimes that turn out to be part of something much bigger.
Frelick tells the story from a number of different perspectives at once, showing us how connected events are unfolding. It is always clear where and who we are reading about, so it is easy to follow and the changes in perspective help build suspense.
I enjoyed this book a lot – it gets five stars from me! I’d definitely recommend starting with the first book to get some background. This is a great series if you like sci fi with plenty of aliens, and also like Earth-based detective and mystery stories. It’s very much a page-turner, with some great characters!

View all my reviews

Legacy of Luck (The Druid’s Brooch Series Book 3) by Christy Nicholas – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Legacy of Luck (Druid's Brooch #3)Legacy of Luck by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Legacy of Luck is the third book in Christy Nicholas’ Druid’s Brooch Series. It’s a fascinating series that I’ve been really enjoying. Each book focuses on a character in a different point in (predominantly Irish) history who inherits a brooch, passed down through the generations, and with it gains some magical powers. I love the glimpses into history, and the way the story unfolds throughout time.
In Legacy of Luck, the heir to the brooch is Éamonn. A traveller with a knack for gambling with dice, Éamonn is desperate to save fellow traveller Katie from an arranged marriage she hasn’t consented to. He has to discover how to use his powers to help him on his quest, and how to do so safely.
There are lots of good characters in this story – I particularly like Éamonn’s brother Ruari as he is kind and loyal and uninterested in the romantic drama that takes over most of the other characters. I also like Turlough with his gift for music.
In this book there is a fair bit of violence and domestic abuse, particularly in Katie’s story. It is addressed sensitively and is a relevant part of the story, but at times it is quite graphic and can come unexpectedly.
For me, this is a five star book. I enjoy the series, and this is a great addition to it! The books do not need to be read in order, and indeed the series order doesn’t follow the chronological order of the time periods that the books are set. So I’ve been reading them in a fairly random order and enjoying the story that way! If you’re particularly interested in Irish travellers or 18th Century history, this might be a good place to start.

View all my reviews

Love Me, Dreamy (Love Me Series) by Laura Burton – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Love Me, DreamyLove Me, Dreamy by Laura Burton

Love Me, Dreamy is a paranormal romance by Laura Burton. It opens with Amelia meeting (and being instantly attracted to) Toby and follows their relationship as it develops. It’s a mysterious, complex story with some adventure thrown in.
This is a book you need to be a bit patient with. At first, I thought it was badly written. Events didn’t really flow properly or always make sense, and there’s often a focus on seemingly unimportant details. But as the story unfolds things start fitting together and I realised it’s actually a very clever book!
I enjoyed reading a romance that’s set in both the UK and the US. I can relate to how Amelia felt experiencing the scale of things in America! And it was fun seeing places I recognised from the UK.
This book gets four stars from me. If you’re into romance and after something a bit different, this book will stand out! I urge you to keep reading if you’re not sure about it to begin with – you will be rewarded!

View all my reviews

Unchained Memory (Interstellar Rescue Series Book 1) by Donna S. Frelick – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Unchained Memory ( Interstellar Rescue Series Book 1)Unchained Memory by Donna S. Frelick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Unchained Memory is the first book in Donna S. Frelick’s Interstellar Rescue Series. It is a gripping story, following Asia as she unravels the mystery of the night she lost three hours, as well as her family and home.
Dr Ethan Roberts is dedicated to helping people who are relying on delusions of alien encounters to cope with trauma. When Asia comes to him with vivid dreams that tell of an extra-terrestrial life as a slave known as 1408, he begins to question whether she could really be delusional, leading him to reconsider some of his past patients.
Unchained Memory intermingles scenes from Asia’s dreams (or memories?) with her current life as she works through therapy to try and make sense of that night. The narrative in the present switches between Asia’s first-person perspective and a third-person over-the-shoulder perspective of Ethan. There were a few points where I found this confusing but mostly it was clear.
There’s plenty of suspense in both the past and present timelines – how will 1408 escape from her slavery? Will Ethan be able to help Asia? Who is the man in the white Impala and what does he want? Will Asia and Ethan be able to resist each other for the sake of their doctor-patient relationship?
For me, this is a five star book. It’s different, interesting and entertaining. I’d recommend it to fans of sci-fi and romance who are interested in alien abductions and love big, intertwining mysteries.

View all my reviews

Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily Conjurings by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily ConjuringsEveryday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily Conjurings by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Maria DeBlassie’s Everyday Enchantments is a collection of short reflections on the magic of everyday life. DeBlassie’s writing is wonderfully descriptive – I could often taste and smell what I was reading!
At times I found stylistic inconsistencies a bit jarring. Although most of the book was written in second person, immersing the reader in the scenes described, there were occasional passages in first person and a couple in third. This could be a hangover from the blog posts that inspired this book, but editing could have produced a more consistent, flowing style.
This is a good book for dipping in and out of, although it can also be read cover-to-cover. The reflections remind the reader to appreciate the world around them and make time to look after themselves. It’s an inspiring, comforting read!
For me, this is a three-star book. I enjoyed the descriptive detail in many of the passages but overall found the style a little odd. The second-person narrative would work better if the book was less focused on the author’s personal experiences – whilst there were some that were relatable, the vast majority at least included aspects that I had little or no experience of. A first-person narrative might have been more appropriate.
I would recommend this to readers interested in magic and how it relates to everyday life. If you’re not sure whether or not to get this book, why not start by reading DeBlassie’s blog to get a taste of her style!

View all my reviews

Orion’s Kiss by Claire Luana – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Orion's KissOrion’s Kiss by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Orion’s Kiss is a Young Adult Fantasy novel by Claire Luana. It is based on Greek Mythology, with a modern setting.
The story centres around the characters of Orion and the Pleiades, particularly the youngest Merope. For millennia, the seven sisters and the hunter have been reincarnated only to meet the same, seemingly unavoidable fate. In the 21st Century, Meriah is determined to use her visions to save her sisters from their fate and is prepared to do anything in her power to stop Ryan from filling the role in their deaths he has occupied for so long.
The story is told from Meriah’s perspective in a first-person narrative that often feels like she is talking to the reader. I particularly liked how, at the beginning, she kept pausing relating her backstory to talk about what was happening in the immediate present. It was a great way to introduce the character as an ancient being but also a teenage girl.
There’s a strong team of supporting characters, particularly Zoe and Brandon. Brandon is very down-to-earth and keeps the story, and the characters, grounded in reality with his focus on important things like food and, er, food. Zoe’s loyalty to Mer and sense of humour make her a refreshing aspect of the story.
For me, this is a five star book. I’d recommend it particularly to young adult and teenage readers who enjoy mythology or urban fantasy, such as fans of the Percy Jackson books. It’s a standalone novel, but Luana has written a number of great fantasy books which fans of Orion’s Kiss might enjoy.

View all my reviews

Shattered Melody: A romantic suspense novella by Amy McKinley – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Shattered MelodyShattered Melody by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shattered Melody is a standalone book by Amy McKinley, that ties in with her Gray Ghost series.
I was drawn to it as the protagonist, Emma, is a songwriter. I liked how the songwriting happens regularly throughout the book as Emma processes her grief and other emotions. It reminded me of a character in another of McKinley’s books, Liv, who used sculpture as an outlet. The way the music is described is lovely, but I wish we’d been able to see the lyrics!
Shattered Melody is quite a short book, and so the story is quite fast paced. The ending did feel a little bit rushed – once things started developing they developed quickly! – but generally I found it flowed well.
For me, this is a four star book. If you’ve read the Gray Ghost books and enjoyed them, I’d recommend this as a good expansion of the story with more of a focus on character and romance (but there’s still some action!). If you haven’t read the Gray Ghost books yet, this could be a good way to test the waters and works well as a standalone romance with a bit of mystery and action.

View all my reviews

Moves by John Michaels – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

MovesMoves by John Michaels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don’t often go for thrillers but I found Moves by John Michaels totally gripping. Michaels sets up a mysterious and intriguing murder right at the start of the book and then launches into several chapters of character development that are seemingly only tangentially related. You KNOW it must all be linked in some way and have to keep reading to get more clues as to how.
The protagonist, Robert Jake, is a well developed and interesting character. He struggles with PTSD, depression and grief. He is also a popular radio host and a caring father. We encounter his story, and the stories of those around him, at several points at once as flashbacks and therapy fill in aspects of his past.
I also found the character John Assisi quite interesting. We get to see him develop through Jake’s flashbacks and then through his detective work in the present. Jake and Assisi balance each other well and I like the underlying respect they have from the start in spite of a less than friendly initial encounter.
For me, this is a five-star book. It’s a real page turner, and one you won’t be able to stop thinking about! It’s great if you’re after a bit of excitement and mystery – thoroughly enjoyable!

View all my reviews

Queen of the Warrior Bees (Natural Forces Book 1) by Jean Gill – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

Queen of the Warrior Bees (Natural Forces #1)Queen of the Warrior Bees by Jean Gill
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Queen of the Warrior Bees is the first book in Jean Gill’s Natural Forces series. It tells the story of Mielitta, a young woman struggling to find her place in a tightly controlled world where perfection is prized above all else. Developing magical bee powers doesn’t exactly help her fit in but does at least give her a sense of purpose as she now has to consider the bees’ agenda as well as her own.
Something I particularly enjoyed about this book is the focus on scent in descriptions of characters and places. I don’t think I’ve ever seen this much detail about how everything smells, and I love it! It added an extra dimension to everything and helped me to immerse myself in the scenes.
The world-building is great. There’s so much originality, presented to us in a way that feels familiar. The contrast between the dull Citadel and the vibrant Forest particularly stood out to me – kind of like a Dorothy landing in full-colour Oz.
The story is very intriguing. There are many mysteries to unravel and deceptions to overcome. Mielitta is observant and resourceful, enabling her and us to glimpse the secrets of the Citadel and reveal its corruptions.
This is an enjoyable book – it gets five stars from me! I’d recommend it to Young Adult fantasy fans with an interest in the environment – plenty of trees and bees! I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

View all my reviews

The Embers We Seek: Prequel | War of Giants (A Rebel Princess Serial Book 1) by Acacia K. Parker – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

The Embers We Seek (A Rebel Princess Serial, #1)The Embers We Seek by Acacia K. Parker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

War of Giants is the first book in Acacia K. Parker’s The Embers We Seek story, which is a Rebel Princess Serial. The Embers We Seek is a fantasy retelling of the Cinderella story, told in novelette-length instalments that are released every month.
As the Prequel, War of Giants has a story that establishes key characters including heroine, Wren, and the setting in the world of Heros. It’s a vibrant fantasy world with plenty of conflict, mystery and magic.
Wren is a military captain, seeking to resolve a conflict with as little loss of life as possible. She is willing to disobey her superiors and put her own life at risk to achieve this. She’s helped along the way by her friend Mor and a group of soldiers who have volunteered to undertake a risky mission. I really liked Mor and hope we learn more about her background in the coming books (I was hoping Mor was a love interest but alas, no).
I have mixed feelings about the format. It was nice to be able to get through a whole story in one sitting, but there was a lot I would have liked more time on, particularly around the climax and the consequences of it. It felt like there was a long build up to a quick conclusion. It did leave me wanting more, though, so I’ll have to read the upcoming instalments!
For me, this book gets four stars. I’d recommend it to fans of fantasy and fairy tales, particularly for readers who can’t always get through longer books.

View all my reviews

The Brass Compass: A Novel by Ellen Butler – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

/0 Comments/in /by

The Brass CompassThe Brass Compass by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Brass Compass is a gripping historical novel by Ellen Butler. The heroine, Lily, is an intelligent young American woman whose youth has been spent living all around Europe. Her fluency in a number of languages and her determination to support the Allied Forces mean she is well suited to work as an OSS agent. When she fears her cover may have been blown, however, she must go on the run and fight to survive the winter as she makes her way to France, where she hopes to be safe.
The story is set in 1945, but Lily’s dreams give the reader flashbacks to her past and some of the major events in WWII. Since we have recently celebrated the 75th anniversary of D Day, I was particularly interested in hearing about Lily’s involvement in that, and another character’s description of parachuting onto the beach.
The Brass Compass is clearly well-researched and is very informative, whilst also being an immersive story. Butler goes into plenty of detail both in describing large, significant events and in Lily’s day-to-day life on the run. We pretty much know everything she has to eat from the start of the story and how she gets it. This is both an interesting insight into rationing and a way for us to get into her head.
This book gets five stars from me. It’s a well-written, entertaining book that transports the reader back in time and sheds some light on an often-overlooked part of the history of WWII. I’d recommend it to fans of spies, survival adventures and WWII.

View all my reviews