Interview and giveaway: Jayne Fresina - The Most Improper Miss Sophie Valentine

Author Interview and Giveaway

Jayne Fresina - The Most Improper Miss Sophie Valentine

Today I welcome Jayne Fresina to my blog. There is also a giveaway at the end of the interview. Open to all.

1. Could you tell me a bit about yourself?

JF: I am a crazy writer, a daydreamer and a terrible procrastinator.

2. Your new book is called The Most improper Miss Sophie Valentine; could you tell me about it?

JF: This is romance set in Regency England - but rather than take place in the drawing rooms and ballrooms of London, the action plays out in a small country village, where everyone knows their neighbors' business and if they don't they'll make it up! Sophie has spent ten years trying to live down a scandal that happened in her youth. She is daily reminded of her status as an "old maid" (at nearly thirty - shock horror!) and a burden on her brother, with whom she lives. One day, out of desperation and mischief, she posts an advertisement for a husband, but she doesn't really expect anyone to come in answer to it. Then Lazarus Kane arrives on her doorstep and she's faced with a choice—stay trapped in her cage for the rest of her life, where everything is dull, safe and predictable, or marry a complete stranger with a mysterious past and risk another scandal. 

3. I do love the title because it’s fun. Was it your idea or did you have another title in mind at first?  

JF: My working title was "The Stranger". But the publishers wanted something a bit more fun and light-hearted to go with the humor in the book. I really liked "Tumbled" and we kicked around a few ideas, but in the end we went with THE MOST IMPROPER MISS SOPHIE VALENTINE.

4. Sophie advertises for a husband in a magazine. Where did you come up with this idea?

JF: I had a dream one morning about a woman answering her door to a stranger. That was all I knew about the story when I started writing it, but it stuck there in my mind and I couldn't set it down.  I had no idea who the man was or why he was there, but I knew he'd traveled a great distance on foot. And Sophie seemed very shocked by his arrival, yet there was also something about the way she opened her door that suggested she'd been expecting someone. Just probably not him. Later I happened to catch a commercial for an online dating service and I thought—hey, that's it, Sophie posted an ad for a husband and the man on her doorstep came in answer to it.

5.  Which character in this book was the most fun to write?

JF: I love Finnola Valentine, Sophie's eccentric and scandalous aunt who hides a gin flask under her turban and talks lovingly of her long-ago affair with a dashing sea captain. Much to her straight-laced nephew's horror.

6.  How did you start writing historical romances?

JF: It started with reading them - by the bucket load. I suppose I can trace my love for the genre back to reading Pride & Prejudice for the first time when I was fifteen. After I met Mr. Darcy there was no looking back! Of course I scribbled a lot of stories that I didn't actually finish, before I finally found the plot and the characters that all came together. I'm sure I was an awful writer in the beginning, but I persevered.

7. What’s coming next from you?

JF: The Wicked Wedding of Miss Ellie Vyne - which follows the adventures of Sophie's young and daring friend Mariella Vyne (who readers met in the first book). Mariella was a lot of fun to write and I particularly enjoyed giving a certain gentleman a chance to redeem himself in the second book!

Giveaway.

1 copy of The most Improper Sophie Valentine

1. Open to all, in the entire universe.

2. Ends July 15th

3. Just enter :)

Or you know, ask a question, or tell me what you think about adds in newspapers ;)

THE MOST IMPROPER MISS SOPHIE VALENTINE BY JAYNE FRESINA – IN STORES JUNE 2012

"Wanted: one husband, not too particular. Small dowry, several books, sundry furnishings, and elderly aunt included. Idlers, time-wasters, and gentleman without other attachments need not apply."

—Miss Sophie Valentine

A SCANDALOUS LADY… 

Sophie Valentine knew placing an ad for a husband in the Farmers Gazette would bring her trouble-and she was right. When the darkly handsome, arrogantly charming Lazarus Kane shows up on her doorstep, the nosy residents of Sydney Dovedale are thrown into a gossiping tizzy. After all, it's common knowledge that Sophie is a young lady In Need of Firmer Direction. But even Sophie isn't so scandalous as to marry a complete stranger. .. is she? 

SEEKS HANDSOME STRANGER…

Lazarus Kane has been searching for Sophie half of his life. She may not remember him, but he could never forget her. But the past is a dangerous thing, and it's best if his remains secret if he wants to tempt Sophie with ...

A MOST IMPROPER PROPOSAL…

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Jayne Fresina sprouted up in England, the youngest in a family of four girls.  Entertained by her father’s colorful tales of growing up in the countryside, and surrounded by opinionated sisters— all with far more exciting lives than hers— she’s always had inspiration for her beleaguered heroes and unstoppable heroines. Visit www.jaynefresina.com for more information. 

Review: My Fair Concubine - Jeannie Lin

My Fair Concubine

The Nobleman Who Turned a Tea Girl Into a Princess...

Yan Ling tries hard to be servile—it's what's expected of a girl of her class. Being intelligent and strong-minded, she finds it a constant battle. 

Proud Fei Long is unimpressed by her spirit—until he realizes she's the answer to his problems. He has to deliver the emperor a "princess." In two months can he train a tea girl to pass as a noblewoman? 

Yet it's hard to teach good etiquette when all Fei Long wants to do is break it, by taking this tea girl for his own... 

My thoughts:

I liked this one for the simply reason that it was so different from the historical romance that I have read before. I loved going back to China 800 AD and experiencing something totally new. The clothes, the manners everything needed to transport me there.

The story is a take on my fair lady as Fei Long needs a"princess" and fast. So he takes on Yan Ling and tries to teach her etiquette and everything else needed. She is to be a peace bride and sent away to distant lands. The whole princess part is not really true as the Emperor has found ways to cheat sending his own daughters and instead he can make a high ranking nobleman's daughter a princess. Still Yan Ling has a long way to go, or at least cheat her way through as what would her family know in the end.

Yan Ling saw a way to a new life and who can blame her. She is also strong and speaks her mind. Even if she tries her best not to. While our hero Fei Ling is quiet, strong, proud and wants to the best for his family so they will not be ruined.

And of course they fall in love, but slowly, and it takes time as they are from two different worlds. They are careful about their true emotions as they should be. It's a delicate dance as they both have their duty to fulfill and that is not to love each other.

I really must read more by her after this. I wish all historical romances could be this different, new and wonderful. I fear I have been stuck in regency land way too long, or playing with Highlanders.

Conclusion:

A wonderful story in a rich setting.

Cover:

One of the most beautiful this year

Series: Tang Dynasty #3
Genre: Historical romance
Pages: 280
Published: May 2012 by Harlequin

Review: A Conspiracy of Kings - Megan Whalen Turner + guestblogging

A Conspiracy of Kings

Sophos, under the guidance of yet another tutor, practices his swordplay and strategizes escape scenarios should his father's villa come under attack. How would he save his mother? His sisters? Himself? Could he reach the horses in time? Where would he go? But nothing prepares him for the day armed men, silent as thieves, swarm the villa courtyard ready to kill, to capture, to kidnap. Sophos, the heir to the throne of Sounis, disappears without a trace. 

In Attolia, Eugenides, the new and unlikely king, has never stopped wondering what happened to Sophos. Nor has the Queen of Eddis. They send spies. They pay informants. They appeal to the gods. But as time goes by, it becomes less and less certain that they will ever see their friend alive again.  Across the small peninsula battles are fought, bribes are offered, and conspiracies are set in motion. Darkening the horizon, the Mede Empire threatens, always, from across the sea. And Sophos, anonymous and alone, bides his time. Sophos, drawing on his memories of Gen, Pol, the Magus and Eddis, sets out on an adventure that will change all of their lives forever.

My thoughts:

Sure I liked the book but I was also disappointed. Ok so book 3 was about someone else, but Gen was always there. While this one was about Sophos. The heir to Sounis who gen met in book 1. So it was not Gen's book at all, and yeah, not a fan of that fact. Might be the one I liked the least.

Anyway, Sophos is weak and likes poetry. Sophos is kidnapped, Sophos is a slave, Sophos matures. And then there is fighting. That is this book and every time we saw Gen, not much though, he felt like such a stranger. But the writing is still good and the book so too. And it makes me wonder that if she does write more books..who will have the POV in those books?

As it is now the book ends good and so..for now (there is always a for now). It could have been an end to the series. But who knows.

Conclusion:

Honestly I haven't got much to say. I missed Gen cos he is so fun and weird. But at least I got to see Sophos and Eddis trying to find each other again.

Cover:

Nice, but I'd like to see more

Series: The Queen's Thief
Genre: YA /fantasy
Pages: 336
Published: 2010 by Grenwillow Books
Source: library

-----------

Come on over and say hi :) I am over at VVn32's and talking about how little I do read about France in the end. It's all things France over at her blog

Review: False Covenant - Ari Marmell

False Covenant

A creature of the other world, an unnatural entity bent on chaos and carnage, has come to stalk the nighttime streets of the Galicien city of Davillon. There’s never a good time for murder and panic, but for a community already in the midst of its own inner turmoil, this couldn’t possibly have come at a worse one.

Not for Davillon, and not for a young thief who calls herself Widdershins.

It’s been over half a year since the brutal murder of Archbishop Wil­liam de Laurent during his pilgrimage to Davillon. And in all that time, Widdershins has truly tried her best. She has tried to take care of Genevieve’s tavern and tried to make a semihonest living in a city slowly stagnating under the weight of an angry and disapproving Church. She has tried to keep out of trouble, away from the attentions of the Davillon Guard and above the secrets and schemes of the city’s new bishop.

But she’s in way over her head, with no idea which way to turn. The Guard doesn’t trust her. The Church doesn’t trust her. Her own Thieves’ Guild doesn’t trust her.

Too bad for everyone, then, that she and her personal god, Olgun, may be their only real weapon against a new evil like nothing the city has ever seen.

My thoughts:

First I have to say, evil author alert (in a good way of course!). This time I stopped reading and shouted no!!! (and by now my poor bf is used to me going crazy over a book). So he "listened" while I rambled on and cursed the author and then hurried and finished the rest of the book. I think Marmell might just take the first place for biggest shock in a book this year. *still in shock*. Well done there.

As for the book, I do like Widdershins and her constant companion Olgun, and I am so curious about him. I do want to know more about this Northern God that no one knows about anymore.  And Widdershins is kick-ass and cool. A great thief, not so great at keeping a tavern though. And a knack for getting into trouble, with everyone! This time with the church, among others as things are not good in Davillion at the moment.

There is action, adventure and even a hint of romance, a tiny hint but hey I do not need much and I like Julian who is everything she should stay away from, a Guard. But there is something there and he is also someone she can trust. And of course I like him, he is also a great side character to just have around. Poor Widdershins needs some good people around her.

Now I starting to feel at a loss for words again. Great book, and it sure made me want more. I need more! More please with sugar on top. Like now.

Final thoughts: 

Recommended series that will keep you on the edge of your seats. Widdershins is my kind of heroine. Go forth and read.

Cover:

Cool

Series: Widdershins Adventures #2
Genre: YA / fantasy
Pages: 281
Published: June 26th 2012 by PYR
Source: For review

Review: Stalking the Others - Jess Haines

Stalking the Others

Vampires, werewolves, mages–the Others are very real, and wreaking havoc in Shiarra Waynest’s life. But now, she’s returning the favor…

Once, she was one of the good guys–or as close as a New York P.I. can get. Then Shiarra Waynest was drawn into the world of the Others. Every faction has its own loyalties and agenda. And Shia’s recent betrayal by her ex-boyfriend means that she may be on the verge of becoming a rogue werewolf at the next full moon.

Of course, with all the threats against her, Shia’s not sure she’ll live long enough to find out. The enigmatic vampire Royce wants her back in his clutches, as do two powerful werewolf packs, along with the police. Instead of going into hiding, Shia is enlisting the aid of her enchanted hunter’s belt and every dirty P.I. trick she knows. If she’s going down, she’ll take out as many of her enemies as she can–and hope that in the process, she keeps whatever humanity she has left.

My thoughts:

I read the last line and went wtf..wtf..wtf!? Evil author alert! I sat up and shook my fist, ok so I did not shake my fist but I stared at bf for a while and trying to comprehend that the book had just ended. Now you all think cliffie, but it was not  a cliffie. All was good, sort of good for now you know, it was just what was going on and ..I truly want to spill the beans but you have to read for yourself to find out what made me crave book 5 more than chocolate, and I adore chocolate.

But that was the last page.*giggles* Oh Haines you evil awesome author.

Now see, I got sidetracked yet again, I shall not think about the end. So the book starts with a pissed off Shia and who can blame her. Possibly infected with the were virus and having found out that her boyfriend is an effing bastard. And think I liked him for a while! So the hunt is on and she wants the Sunstrikers to pay. This is really a different Shia in this book. Sure she was always kick-ass but now she is also angry, and you do not want to see her angry.

We meet the white hats again, they are kind of growing on me and we learn, nope, lips sealed again. But we learn something. And then we also meet Royce *happy sigh*. The vampire that made me like vampires again, because he just oozes sex.

Fighting, trouble and one ending that will make you want more. More please :D *puppy eyes* Haines does so well with this book, even if I talk about the end a bit too much but trust me, it was just that good!

Final thoughts:
Recommended series

Cover
Kick-ass, my fav so far

Series: H&W Investigations #4
Genre: Urban fantasy
Pages: 352
To be published: July 3rd 2012 by Kensington
Source: For review

Review: The King of Attolia - Megan Whalen Turner

The King of Attolia

By scheming and theft, the Thief of Eddis has become King of Attolia. Eugenides wanted the queen, not the crown, but he finds himself trapped in a web of his own making.

Then he drags a naive young guard into the center of the political maelstrom. Poor Costis knows he is the victim of the king's caprice, but his contempt for Eugenides slowly turns to grudging respect. Though struggling against his fate, the newly crowned king is much more than he appears. Soon the corrupt Attolian court will learn that its subtle and dangerous intrigue is no match for Eugenides.

My thoughts:

This one was different. Costis was the main character so we never really got under Gen's and Attolia's skin. We never really how they felt. I'll take a step back...

Gen and Attolia are now married (and I still do not know how old he is, sure if I only remembered how old Eddis was I could count but do I know? Arghh, anyway, boyking gets his older bride ....edit: I found someone who had figured it out, so 17/18 at the beginning here). And Gen is not at ease at court. All this we see through Costi's eyes as he grows to like Gen. As people try to kill Gen, as Gen does nothing to make people like him. Poor Gen. The court was not nice to him. And I also kept wondering, does Attolia love him back? But we could not know. Oh the evilness of a POV switch, she sure knows how to keep the readers on our toes.

I liked it, as I wanted more, I wanted to know. I wanted to see Gen do well. And I still do not know how he still could love her...she, well if you are reading this then you might have read book 2, or well, you should know better since this is book 3 and I am obviously gonna mention some things. She cut off his hand when he was in her dungeons. Now that must be true love from his side. That crazy thief.

Conclusion: 

On to book 4 then.

Cover: Ok

Series: The Queen's Thief
Genre: YA / fantasy
Pages: 387
Published: 2006 by Grenwillow Books
Source: library

Review: Lord of the Black Isle - Elaine Coffman

Lord of the Black Isle

WHAT HE NEEDS MOST...

David Murray, Earl of Kinloss, never wanted to be the laird. But the title is thrust upon him, and now the well-being of his clan weighs heavily on his shoulders. He has never felt so alone, until a beautiful healer from another time is brought to the Black Isle...

IS WHAT SHE DOES BEST...

When Dr. Elisabeth Douglas is thrown back into time to sixteenth-century Scotland, she decides to use her modern medical knowledge to save lives. In a time when a healer may be accused of witchcraft, she must keep her secret closely guarded, especially from David, whose uncanny curiosity could destroy them both.

My thoughts:

This is book 3..but not really book "3". Since it's all about book 2 and 3. Book 1 is about a distant ancestor. Those are connected, but book 3 can still be read as a stand alone. We hear that Elizabeth has been  brought back in time and her story to love begin. Book 2 was about her sister and Elizabeth wasn't really in it as she had been kidnapped. But this then is her book.

A highlander book, do I need to say more? A hot hunky highlander who wants to sweep our heroine off her feet. He is a bit brooding too as he has to take over as Earl. the heroine is totally different, but then she is a modern woman who wants to practice medicine just as she did back home. And she speaks her mind, she is also a bit heartbroken, but then the best cure for that is of course said hunky highlander.

The lovestory does not happen at once, it actually has to grow a bit first (even if he totally wants her from day 1 ;) But she takes her time.

If I have to say anything negative it would be that sometimes she thought too much,  and I did not need to know about the proverb in her head right now, or that she has no antibiotics, yeah, we get that. But that is not much in the end.

Conclusion:

All in all a good lovestory about a  modern woman and a 16th century Highlander. They clash, and there is passion.

Cover
Look at him, holding that sword and all..hihih

Series: Black Douglas #3
Genre: Historical romance  /timetravel
Pages: 352
Published: June 2012 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
Source: For review

Review: Shadow Bound - Rachel Vincent

Shadow Bound

If you live in the dark long enough, you begin to forget the light…KORI DANIELS is a shadow-walker, able to travel instantly from one shadow to another. After weeks of confinement for betraying her boss, she’s ready to break free of the Tower syndicate for good. But Jake Tower has one final job for Kori, one chance to secure freedom for herself and her sister, Kenley, even if that means taking it from someone else. The job? Recruit Ian Holt—or kill him.

Ian’s ability to manipulate the dark has drawn interest from every syndicate in the world, most notably an invitation from Jake Tower. Though he has no interest in organized crime, Ian accepts the invite, because he’s on a mission of his own. Ian has come to kill Tower’s top Binder: Kori’s little sister. Amid the tangle of lies, an unexpected thread of truth connecting Ian and Kori comes to light. But with opposing goals, they’ll have to choose between love and liberty….

My thoughts:

First I do have to say that it was not as good as book 1. Sure I still enjoyed the book, but it could just not top book 1. I'd have loved for them all to be kick-ass.

Maybe it was cos this one was darker, no, that was not it, I liked the darkness, it was gritty and real. Kori had gone through so much. I felt so sorry for her. And then we have Ian with his secrets. Could it be that the couple was not as good as in book 1? Don't ask me, truth be told I really do not remember much about book 1 o_O Which is never good either. So even if this was a good book, I fear that it might go into darkness too. In that corner in my mind where forgotten books go.

But hey, I liked the book. It was kick-ass, heartbreaking, any HEA seemed impossible, Tower is so freaking evil! The whole system with bindings makes me so mad too. What a good creation, such a cool world.

Therefore I just can't say why I did not think it was awesome. It was something, just something. Still it was good, it's Vincent after all.

....maybe it was Ian..yes maybe. I just did not fall for him...eh, just something. Whatever, the book was still good :)

Conclusion:
Dark, very dark, these peeps need to be happy.

Cover:
Eh

Series: Unbound #2
Genre: urban fantasy
Pages: 448
Published: May 2012 by Mira
Source:; My own

The Most Improper Miss Sophie Valentine - Jayne Fresina

"Wanted: one husband, not too particular. Small dowry, several books, sundry furnishings, and elderly aunt included. Idlers, time-wasters, and gentlemen with other attachments need not apply."

Scarred in a childhood accident, Sophia Valentine doesn't expect any takers on her ad for a husband in the Farmer's Gazette, until the mysterious Lazarus Kane shows up at her door. To Sophia, he is an exciting, enigmatic stranger. But Lazarus has known Sophia for years and has come a long way to find her. Things are about to get complicated for the mischievous Miss Valentine.

My thoughts:

Sophie was sure a different sort of heroine and even if she regretted it later, I sure loved that she placed an add for a man in a paper. She had spirit.

Sophie is turning 30 soon, she has an annoying sister-in-law, she has a scar which other young lady says ruins her, and she caused a great scandal when young so now she is rotting away. She tries to be proper but a hussy is hiding inside of her, though she wont let her wild side free. She also climbs trees, and I liked that, cos hey I loved trees. So if she want to hide in one then you go girl. I just liked her because she was real to me. And I liked to see her find that wild side again.

The romance then, yes a man shows up. A man who has wanted her for quite some time. A man who does not take no for an answer, a man who is totally wrong for her (class and more), but a man who makes her heart soar. And I do love a man who does not give up, he wanted her, and for all the right reasons.

Then we have a cool aunt, the tiresome sister in law, Sophie's idiot brother, and, well more. I'll leave it at that.

I guess I should have been annoyed at a few places, you know me and my suddenly prudish historical romance side but here I just said, you go for it girl! ;)

Conclusion:

A cute and fun romance that turned passionate, very passionate.

Cover:

Cute

Genre: Historical romance
Pages: 384
Published: June 5th from Sourcebooks Casablanca
Source: For review

Review: Wonder Girls - Catherine Jones + guestposting

Don't follow the crowd,' she'd be telling schoolgirls at the swimming baths. 'Follow your own star and when you have achieved your goal you will have that with you for the rest of your life...'

In 1928, a plucky young Welsh girl named Ida Gaze swims the Bristol Channel with the help of her best friend Freda and the inspiration of her heroine Amelia Earhart. In 1937, on the instructions of the matron, a young skivvy at a grand maternity hospital in London smuggles out an orphaned baby on one of the coldest nights of the year.

Now, in a small town in Wales, an old lady named Ceci pieces together these stories and is about to discover the surprising ways in which they link to her own. It begins with two girls in the twenties who left their small Welsh village for the Big Smoke, feeling that the world was changing and everything was possible…

My thoughts:

This book takes place in modern times when Cecily thanks to a new friend starts to wonder who a girl in a photo is. All things will come together in the end but the question was how. And that had me wondering.

In 1928 Ida and Freda are 16 and thinking about their futures. Or more like it trying not to think too much about it as parents nag. Ida loves to swim and wants to be free, but being like this she still seems to be the one who has the most to lose. While Freda is a bit more guarded, but at the same time she does not care at all what others think and is free with her emotions and feelings. Feelings towards her friend too. They are quite opposites in a way but they are both outsiders and friendship blossom. We follow them through trying times.

From the start I know that Cecily knew Freda, but she never knew Ida. So this old lady is trying to put the pieces back together. All while I am wondering about 1937 and the baby, but we get to that again and slowly the story unfolds. What really happened. And it's both sad and heartbreaking.

The title comes from the wonder girl that Ida was and that Freda too was. And they were go-getters in their own ways. But the book also shows that even if you have everything then something might still be missing. It's also a beautiful tale about friendship, first Freda and Ida, and then how a young woman named Sarah befriends Cecily and starts asking questions. Friendship through the ages is what the book is about, and how people can change. And of course it's also about those early women who broke boundaries and went where only men had gone before.

Conclusion:

A good story about now and then, and quite the mystery too as the story comes to us as the years go by.

Genre: Fiction (historical)
Pages: 416
Published: June 7th 2012 by Simon and Schuster UK
Source: For review

......................................
I am a guest over at Layers of Thought today so come on by and say hello :) I am being interviewed about books and writing :)

Flash Fiction friday on Saturday

Every Monday Dottie over at Tink's Place posts a picture and then on Friday (Flash Fiction Friday) we post a story to go along with the picture. The story has to be about 350 words, give or take.  


(pic has been removed: couple dancing)



The Last Dance by Blodeuedd


She went to see him as he was training. She stood by the pillars and looked at him for what seemed like hours. He spun around with a sword in hand and it seemed liked he was dancing all by himself. She knew that he sensed her presence but he said nothing and she stood still. She smiled for a moment but it died out on her lips. Her heart raced in her chest and she closed her eyes. She wanted to remember him just like this.


“Elene.” 
She had not heard him and suddenly she felt his hand on her chin. She did nothing and gasped for air. It hurt her soul to be so near him. He pulled her into his arms and kissed her fiercely. She melted away and clung to him with all she got. But then she stepped back and broke the spell.
“I can’t.”
He looked at her with those sad eyes and her heart broke just a bit more.
“One last dance?”
How could she refuse him? She let him lead her out and they danced until their feet hurt. Neither wanting it to end, neither wanting to let go, or get any closer as that would burn away any strength they had left. Time seemed to stop as he held her on his arms and she thought her feet lifted from the floor at one time. Love gave her wings, but love also burned away those wings.


Footsteps echoed in the hallway and he let her go with a sigh. He turned away and picked up his sword and started his practice again. She stood in the middle of the room and tried to compose herself. Not to let anything show. To be the ice princess she could be, that she had to be.


“Ahhh, there you are.” 
Why did he have to sound so cheerful?  She slowly turned. “My prince,” she quickly kneeled and he came up to her and kissed her hand as he helped her up. “I thought you would be here, “ she explained and his just smiled.
“No, I have better things to do the evening before my wedding.” His eyes were so kind, his smile so sweet and she did her best to smile a bit too. 
“Yes, and so do I,” she softly said and they walked out. She wanted to look back, but could not. Tomorrow she would marry, and her husband’s brother would be forbidden and forgotten.


............


Sad :(

Review: The Queen of Attolia - Megan Whalen Turner

The Queen of Attolia

When Eugenides, the Thief of Eddis, stole Hamiathes's Gift, the Queen of Attolia lost more than a mythical relic. She lost face. Everyone knew that Eugenides had outwitted and escaped her. To restore her reputation and reassert her power, the Queen of Attolia will go to any length and accept any help that is offered, she will risk her country to execute the perfect revenge.

Eugenides can steal anything. And he taunts the Queen of Attolia, moving through her strongholds seemingly at will. So Attolia waits, secure in the knowledge that the Thief will slip, that he will haunt her palace one too many times. When Eugenides finds his small mountain country at war with Attolia, he must steal a man, he must steal a queen, he must steal peace. But his greatest triumph, and his greatest loss, comes in capturing something that the Queen of Attolia thought she had sacrificed long ago...

My thoughts:

At the moment I can't remember why something bothered me in book 1..did something bother me * checking review* Aha it was not knowing how old Gen was, well that does still bother me but not as much. But closer do the second half it did bother me again, I honestly want to know if he is a boy or a man? 13 or 18? What is he?

Anyway, I think I liked the book more than the last because it's something with the way she writes. A flow of words, a certain ease and way to it that makes it more than fiction. With the rich history, mythology and stories she tells.

I also learnt more about the state of affairs in the world and war is still coming. Not to mention the shocking beginning at the start of the book. She had me shaking my head in disbelief. The first half is darker but it gets lighter and it was heartbreaking.

Conclusion:

It made me wonder how book 3 will be and I hope to read it soon and see how Gen is doing and...hihi, no spoilers from me. But I am sure curious.

Cover:

Nice

Series: The Queen's Thief #2
Genre: YA, fantasy
Pages: 362
Published: 2006 by Eos (2000)

Review: Queen by Right - Anne Easter Smith

History remembers Cecily of York standing on the steps of the Market Cross at Ludlow, facing an attacking army while holding the hands of her two young sons. Queen by Right reveals how she came to step into her destiny, beginning with her marriage to Richard, duke of York, whom she meets when she is nine and he is thirteen. Raised together in her father’s household, they become a true love match and together face personal tragedies, pivotal events of history, and deadly political intrigue. All of England knows that Richard has a clear claim to the throne, and when King Henry VI becomes unfit to rule, Cecily must put aside her hopes and fears and help her husband decide what is right for their family and their country.

My thoughts:

If I am gonna be totally honest I never liked the Neville clan, so to read about Cecily was interesting, and I did like her, most of the time.

Cecily Neville is in this book quite lucky as her arranged marriage was wonderful and filled with awesome sex. Got lots of babies too (though maybe she should have kept a closer eye on her brother killing babies.) But this book does not deal with that, it deals with her upbringing, her marriage and up to the point when her son Edward is made king.

The book is interesting even if I have heard the story so many times before, but still I can't keep track of every Somerset, Beaufort and everyone else. So it does always feel new because of that. Quite the tale and I enjoyed the rich setting.

But some things did annoy me. Her obsession with Joanne d'Arc and how Joanne gave her a prophecy. And the biggest issue was how she met Jacquetta Woodwille and disliked her at once. Jacquetta did not do anything but every time they met Cecily looked down on her with her snotty proud nose. This was put there so that when Edward married Elizabeth Cecily own feelings = "prophecy" would ring true, Jacquetta is no good and not the others either.. But the truth was that every time it happened it made me dislike Cecily, she was such a bitch and it always took pages for me to get over it. And she thought something about high airs too, but if J really would have wanted to be high up then wouldn't she have gone for something better than Woodille? But in this book Cecily has her feelings and yup, bitchy. She distrusted the queen's kindness in the beginning too cos of Jacquetta. I can go on and on. Cecily was called proud Cis and cos of those things that sure made me see it, even though the reader was not supposed to see it like that. We were surely supposed to see that aha Woodwilles = evil scheming lot. Just like every Lancastrian in this book were bad, you know babykilling bad (not that they did, but you get the point) and Yorkists are Gods. Not that I mind, I am a bit of a Yorkist...at a point in the war.

Sheesh, how I went on! But it just annoyed me every time. Still it lasted only for a few pages and then I could enjoy the book again. I just wished there had been a reason and not a feeling. Sure feelings are good, but here it was just put so it could be showed later on to ring true.

Conclusion:
A nice historical, recommended to fans of the era.

Cover:
Nice :)

Genre: Historical fiction
Pages: 494
Published: 2011 by Touchstone
Source: Won :)

Review: All I Ever Wanted - Kristan Higgins

One Happily-Ever-After Rocking Chair... 

and no sign of any forthcoming babies to rock in ol' Georgebury, Vermont. For Callie Grey, turning thirty means coming to grips with the fact that her boss (and five-week fling) is way overdue in his marriage proposal. And way off track because Mark has suddenly announced his engagement to the company's new Miss Perfect. If that isn't bad enough, her mom decides to throw her a three-oh birthday bash in the family funeral home. 

Bad goes to worse when she stirs up a crazy relationship with the town's not so warm and fuzzy veterinarian, Ian McFarland, in order to flag Mark's attention. So Ian is more comfortable with animals.... So he's formal, orderly and just a bit tense. The ever-friendly, fun-loving and spontaneous Callie decides it's time for Ian to get a personality makeover. But dang, if he doesn't shock the heck out of her, she might actually fall for Vermont's unlikeliest eligible bachelor.... 

My thoughts:

Edit:This review was written 2 weeks ago when I had that little reviewing funk.

I am still feeling the urge to review in another way. Maybe the same old same old just wont cut it for me anymore.

The Good:

Callie was real, she was warm and she was nice and I liked her. And yes Ian was the opposite, cold, hard to get close to and guarded. But that is why I liked him because he was real too. Everyone is not open and cheerful and willing to fall in love, even willing to go around kissing people. Together they seem like a mess that wont happen, but it's a romance book and it happens and I felt it.

The story:

Crushing over someone who seems like an ass. Trouble at work. Family time and family drama. And taking the step to meet someone else. That is what this book was about and I enjoyed it.

The Bad:

I don't know here. There wasn't anything bad about the book. It was fun, it was cute and at one point it even made me want to cry. So nothing bad. But hey I needed the category anyway.

Recommended for:

Fans of romance and small towns.

Genre: Contemporary romance
Pages: 409
Published: 2010 by Harlequin
Source: My own

Review: To Turn Full Circle - Linda Mitchelmore

Set in Devon the first novel in a trilogy. 

Life in Devon in 1909 is hard and unforgiving, especially for young Emma Le Goff, whose mother and brother die in curious circumstances, leaving her totally alone in the world. While she grieves, her callous landlord Reuben Jago claims her home and belongings. His son Seth is deeply attracted to Emma and sympathises with her desperate need to find out what really happened, but all his attempts to help only incur his father’s wrath.

When mysterious fisherman Matthew Caunter comes to Emma’s rescue. Matthew is kind and charismatic, but handsome Seth is never far from Emma’s mind. Whatever twists and turns her life takes, it seems there is always something – or someone – missing. Can Seth persuade Emma that they can overcome their past?

My thoughts:

Poor Emma, she sure lived in a village filled with bitches and bastards. People can be so cruel, but then they can be so kind too and not ask for anything in return. It kind of reminded me of the Catherine Cookson stories, her heroines always have a hard time before finding their way and luck.

Emma is 15 when her parents die and the crappy village she lives in does not make things better. She is on her own, but she is strong and wont let anyone push her around. That is what I liked about her, her will do go on and try. Even if I had run away and lived in the woods, cos I just could not take all those people talking behind my back. She tries to build a new life and that is not easy.

The romantic interest is Seth, he does try to do his best by her, but when he stands up someone always pulls him down (his family is horrid.) These two does not have an easy way to each other and sometimes I wondered if they ever would end up together (I will of course not tell you). It's a love that grows and matures. Other people in the book are of course Seth's horrible father and brothers. And Matthew who shows up like a knight in shining armor. He was one of the nice ones.

I really can't say more as a few years go by and things happen in the book. There is heartache, happiness and it's a story about a courageous young woman.

Conclusion:

It's a book that promises drama, romance and even a mystery behind the scenes. After a bit of a heartbreaking beginning the book just flows on and is truly easy to read.

Genre: Historical romantic fiction
Pages: 300
Published: June 7th 2012 by Choc Lit
Source: For review
Kindle UK /US/ Print

Author guestpost: Anne Mendel and the Apocalypse

Anne Mendel is on my blog today with a guestpost about what to do when the apocalypse is over.

Etiquette for an Apocalypse, which Book Girl of Mur-y-Castell kindly reviewed and reviewed kindly, is a post-apocalyptic/ mystery/thriller/comedy. I had many reasons for writing a “harrowing and hilarious” (at least this is what some reviewers say) book. I wrote an apocalyptic book, not because I believe in any particular Apocalypse, but because 64% of Americans aren’t ready to deal with just a three-day emergency. So, not many people are ready to deal with long emergencies. And I do believe that we are headed towards some hard times. That’s why learning skills, like how to tie a good knot and plant a garden are so important now. And of course building personal resilience and making friends with your neighbors (remember to take them chocolate chip cookies today) are key.

Many of us have lost our survival instincts. I would probably last for two or three days in an apocalyptic scenario. It’s a kind of ‘do as I say, not as I do’, thing. I’m the Clark Kent that never figures out how to turn into Superman. My protagonist, Sophie, is my alter ego. She is street smart, practical and resilient. I do know how to waterproof matches and make a fire with pocket lint. I’ve learned how to shoot a gun. I’m very good at reading books on survival. Actually, writing books on survival. But no one, I mean no one, knows who they are until they are faced with a dire situation. The better you are prepared emotionally and physically, and the more flexible you are about working with other people, the more likely you can survive and possibly thrive, which I think my main character does.

Most of my main characters are women but I really think that men and women bring different strengths to a dire situation. It depends on the crisis. If it has to do with competition, violence and aggression I’ll probably choose a man. They have 50% more upper body strength than women and a mass of testosterone. I have a growing appreciation of that. But if we’re talking about compromise and negotiation, cunning and improvisation, I’ll take women. That’s not to say there aren’t remarkable men and women who can do all these things.

Hard times can push all of us to be our best or worst selves. Men, women, families and communities can bond or they can tear apart. That’s where learning resilience skills comes in. For example, I’m working on upping my tolerance for people who drive me crazy. I’m trying to grasp what puts certain people on the short list to extinction. Figure out the skills that make a person valuable in hard times. You know how we make fun on Basketweaving 101 and think Intro to Philosophy 101 is important. Knowing how to basketweave will bond you to your tribe—Knowing about Descartes and existentialism or being charming or beautiful, not so much.

And why did I make Etiquette for an Apocalypse a comedy in the middle of such tragedy. While not as important as clean water and gorp, laughter is a major component of resilience. Going back to bonding with your tribe…if you can make people laugh, they will keep you around, even if you can’t grow things or make a bug catcher for termite soup.  

You can read more about my take on emergency preparedness on my survival guide blog, annemendel.com

.........................

Thanks Anne! I am pretty sure I will not do so well when disaster strikes.

Friday Flash Fiction as always Saturday style

Every Monday Dottie over at Tink's Place posts a picture and then on Friday (Flash Fiction Friday) we post a story to go along with the picture. The story has to be about 350 words, give or take. 


(pic has been removed: a face
)

Waiting by Blodeuedd

She was all dressed in white, even her body was painted white and her hair colored. All do show purity and innocent. All to prepare her for her upcoming wedding. She let them put on the veil and she cried a single tear. She would not let them see her sad. She was supposed to be happy, glorious and, no, she hid behind the veil and felt her heart racing. It felt like it was going to jump out of her chest. If only it would. Blasted heart!


She feared what was to come; she feared it more than death itself. She knew the stories; she heard the whispers of the women around her. Broken and bruised. She lifted her head high and followed the women out. They lead her to an empty chambers and she heard cheering outside. The men were drunk and she shivered. The king’s men would come, take her and break her and then she would burn with the king. An offering to him on his funeral pyre. Now when she was alone she cried and wondered how fate could punish her so. What had she done to deserve this?! She had been a good daughter, she had made offerings to the Gods. She had done everything she was supposed to.


The door opened and she braced herself. A figure came inside and she clenched her hands. Would fate be so cruel? She sat still until he came up to her. She loved him, she always had loved him and these last few months when he father had been ill they had grown closer. She knew they had no future, him being a prince and all but she cared not. He had felt the same but obviously not enough.
“Hurry!”
She wrinkled her forehead and look up.
“Damn it Sassa, I have not come for that. But they will come soon.” He offered her his hand and she took it. He smiled for a moment and then showed her the way out. Together they ran, the prince and the Handmaiden of Death.


.....................


Haha a HEA ;)

Review: A kiss at midnight by Eloisa James

Miss Kate Daltry doesn't believe in fairy tales . . . or happily ever after.

Forced by her stepmother to attend a ball, Kate meets a prince . . . and decides he's anything but charming. A clash of wits and wills ensues, but they both know their irresistible attraction will lead nowhere. For Gabriel is promised to another woman—a princess whose hand in marriage will fulfill his ruthless ambitions.

Gabriel likes his fiancée, which is a welcome turn of events, but he doesn't love her. Obviously, he should be wooing his bride-to-be, not the witty, impoverished beauty who refuses to fawn over him. 

Godmothers and glass slippers notwithstanding, this is one fairy tale in which destiny conspires to destroy any chance that Kate and Gabriel might have a happily ever after.

Unless a prince throws away everything that makes him noble . . . Unless a dowry of an unruly heart trumps a fortune . . . Unless one kiss at the stroke of midnight changes everything.

My thoughts:

Still trying new formats :)

Once upon a time:
There was a woman named Kate. She was strong willed, wanted the best for her dead father's tenants and was treated like a servant.

She had a stepmother who swam in jewels and pretty dresses and a step-sister who was a silly little thing.

Then one day she was bullied to save her sister's reputation and met a prince. This prince was as princes are and they bickered and sized one another up. That is how love began.

But alas no, the prince needed to marry for money and told her so. Good old Kate did a silly thing that the reader did not approve of. Let that be a lesson to all. She threw away virtue and all. Now you dear reader tell me what else is new? But I shall tell thee. In some stories this may work, but here is another story. These two were starcrossed lovers. She knew so, he knew so. They told each other so. Still she went for a night of passion, still he seduced that which was not his to take. She should have been ruined for all but as we all also know, this is love and love always finds a way. I still say nay.

And that was the story of how Cinderella found a prince. A historical romance with a fairy-tale story. Since so many names were utterly silly and the whole story had the right fairy-tale vibe.


Conclusion:
A cute little story.

And oh how this format was wrong. So not trying it again!

Cover: Eh

Series: Fairy tales #1
Genre: Historical romance
Pages: 304
Published: 2011 by Piatkus
Source: From a great blogger :D

Review: Hunting Ground - Patricia Briggs

Anna Latham didn’t know how complicated life could be until she became a werewolf. And until she was mated to Charles Cornick, the son — and enforcer — of Bran, the leader of the North American werewolves, she didn’t know how dangerous it could be either...

Anna and Charles have just been enlisted to attend a summit to present Bran’s controversial proposition: that the wolves should finally reveal themselves to humans. But the most feared Alpha in Europe is dead set against the plan — and it seems like someone else might be too. When Anna is attacked by vampires using pack magic, the kind of power only werewolves should be able to draw on, Charles and Anna must combine their talents to hunt down whoever is behind it all — or risk losing everything...

My thoughts:

Edit: Now this is the problem with actually posting the review here later, this review is one of those from last week when reviewing and I just did not seem to work. I think there is one or two more to come ;)

I am feeling the loss of my reviewing mojo at the moment, I just do not know..it feels like I have nothing to say. Like I have said it all before. Like the same old style just wont cut it anymore.

Characters:
Anna, I just do not know. I know she has been hurt, I know she is an omega. But even if she flashes her teeth she still feels like a little rabbit. She is so tame.

Charles, no I just can't fall for him like I did with Bran *sighs* Bran, mmmm nom nom. Or like with Sam. Charles I do like, but I do not fancy him and I would not like to be his friend.

Love:
These two have issues, that I do like. How he tries to take it slow. As a couple I get them more. As a couple I like them.

Story:
The wolves are coming out and are having a summit. There were bad wolves, good wolves and the hunt to find killers. Throw in a few surprises, a few phone calls to Bran (damn it, I want more BRAN!) and you got quite an exciting story.

Final verdict:
The book was good and so short and easy. Just what I need as my reviewing mojo has decided to leave. Still I like it nowhere as much as the Mercy series.

Series: Alpha & Omega #2
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 286
Published: 2009 by Ace
Source; My own

Interview and giveaway: Joanne Kennedy and Cowboy Crazy

Today Joanne Kennedy is visiting my blog for an interview, and at the end of it there is a giveaway of her new book Cowboy Crazy. Open worldwide.

1. Tell me 3 fun things about yourself…

JK: Let’s see… (1) I have absolutely no sense of direction, to the point where I practically get lost in my own driveway. (2) Although I write about cowboys, I’m terrible at horseback riding. (3) I’ve never outgrown my childhood fear that there are monkeys in the closet.

2. Your new book is called Cowboy Crazy, could you tell me about it?

JK: My new heroine is Sarah Landon, a small-town girl who kicked the country dust off her boots and built herself a new life as a publicity manager for Carrigan Oil. The Carrigan family’s black sheep, rodeo cowboy Lane Carrigan, isn’t about to let her forget that she’s a cowgirl at heart, and when the two of them clash over the fate of Sarah’s old hometown of Two Shot, the secrets she’s tried to leave behind come back to haunt her. It’s up to Lane to help her return to her roots.

3. Why will readers fall helplessly in love with Lane Carrigan, your hero?  

JK: Lane is as wild as any rodeo cowboy could be, but behind carefree façade is a cowboy who genuinely does care—about his friends, about his community, and about Sarah. He was born to wealth, but he wants nothing more than to be a regular guy—a cowboy, a rancher, and a family man.

4. What made you write in this particular genre?

JK: It just came naturally. I started out writing a mystery, but every time I submitted to editors they told me it was “too romancey.” So I bowed to fate and my own mushy heart and turned it into a romance. I’ve never looked back! I really do believe in love and happy endings, because I’ve found my own :)

The whole cowboy thing came naturally, too. I’m originally from back East but I’ve always been fascinated by the West, and I when I moved West twenty years ago I knew I’d found my spiritual home as soon as I saw the big sky. I’m also a horse lover; I’m fascinated by the way cowboys form working partnerships with their horses through understanding and cooperation.

5.  Which character in this book was the most fun to write?

JK: I love Gloria, Sarah’s wild-child friend and roommate. She’s a coffee shop barista with trophy wife ambitions, and she never saw a party she couldn’t liven up with a little table dancing. She’s the kind of person who makes you tear your hair out in frustration even as she’s helping you find the joy in life.

6. Do you know a lot about oil or rodeo? Or do you do a lot of research? Like watching hot cowboys? ;)

JK: I don’t know a lot about oil, but I know the effects the boom-and-bust cycle has on Wyoming’s small towns. When the drilling starts, populations double. Massive trucks roll in and destroy the roads as new residents create a challenge for schools, housing, and law enforcement. Ranchers often don’t own the minerals beneath the soil, so companies that own those minerals can come in and leave their land unfit for grazing without giving them a dime. I support domestic energy production, but I think the companies that profit should work with communities to make sure the old Wyoming and the new can live in harmony.

Okay, I’m climbing off my soapbox so we can talk about the fun stuff. I love rodeo! There is nothing better than a summer day in the rodeo stands, watching your favorite cowboys show their skills. And I love doing research, because it gives me an excuse to hang out behind the chutes where the cowboys get ready to ride. This year, I’m hoping to spend some time with the barrel racers, since I’m working on a book about that side of rodeo.

And of course, I watch hot cowboys whenever I get the chance—and in Wyoming, that’s pretty often!

7. What’s coming next from you?

JK: I just finished Cowboy Tough, about a rodeo cowboy who’s forced to return home when his family turns their cattle operation into a dude ranch. Their first guests include a big-city artist who’s leading a group of painters into the back country to paint landscapes. She likes gallery openings and fine wines; he likes rodeos and shooting beer cans off fence posts. It’s definitely a clash of cultures!

Writing Cowboy Tough has been a real pleasure because Mack Boyd and Cat Crandall, the hero and heroine, have been with me for so long. They were the ones who put an end to my mystery career by being so danged ”romancey” all the time, and I’m happy they finally got their own story and found their happy ending.

Thanks!!

To purchase Cowboy Crazy by Joanne Kennedy, please visit ganxy.com/p/62834. 

GIVEAWAY

2 copies

1 international winner / 1 US or Canada winner

1. Open to all, all over the world

2. Ends June 20th

3. Just go ahead and enter.

If you want to then ask a question, or perhaps tell me if you have seen a real life sexy cowboy ;)

COWBOY CRAZY BY JOANNE KENNEDY – IN STORES JUNE 2012
Sparks fly when sexy cowboys collide with determined heroines in a West filled with quirky characters and sizzling romance. Acclaimed for delivering “a fresh take on the traditional contemporary Western“ Joanne Kennedy’s books might just be your next great discovery!

From stable to boardroom…

Sarah Landon’s Ivy League scholarship transforms her from a wide-eyed country girl into a poised professional. Until she’s assigned to do damage control with the boss’s rebellious brother Lane, who’s the burr in everybody’s saddle. He’s determined to save his community from oil drilling, and she’s not going back to the ranch she left forever. Spurs will shine in this saucy romp about ranchers and roots, redemption and second chances.

Click on the cover for a preview :D Lots of pages to read (still poor cover, it got this weird color when I put it here :(

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joanne Kennedy is the author of four contemporary Western romances for Sourcebooks: Cowboy Trouble One Fine Cowboy, Cowboy Fever, and Tall, Dark and Cowboy. She brings a wide variety of experience, ranging from chicken farming to horse training, to her sexy, spicy cowboy stories. She is a 2011 finalist in the prestigious Romance Writers of American RITA© Awards, for One Fine Cowboy. Joanne lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where she is working on her next book, Cowboy Tough (Fall 2012). For more information, please visit http://joannekennedybooks.com/. To purchase Joanne’s latest release, Cowboy Crazy, please visit ganxy.com/p/62834. 

Cowboy Crazy - Joanne Kennedy

She kicked the country dust off her boots a long time ago…Sarah Landon’s Ivy League scholarship transformed her from a wide-eyed country girl into a poised professional. Her job at the Carrigan Oil Company has given her the sophisticated life she longed for, but when she meets her boss’s black-sheep brother, she realizes her roots are showing.

But he’s ready to remind her she’s a cowgirl at heart. Rebellious rodeo cowboy Lane Carrigan is determined to save the Wyoming community of Two Shot from the ravages of energy development, but Sarah’s convinced her old hometown needs a swift kick in the pants from the march of progress.

When a lapsed cowgirl collides with rodeo royalty, it’s bound to be a wild ride—and somebody’s going to end up in the dirt.

My thoughts:

A bit of cowboy loving, I should not say little. These two sure wanted each other at once and went for it. The trouble was the loving part, the passion was easy ;)

Sarah, I could understand her. Who wants to live in a dying town and with memories like that, so she left and created a new persona. Someone successful and from a good background, but she never lied. She is what Lane should be, but again also re-invented himself and threw away he privileged rich boy and tried his best to become a rancher and a cowboy. So they are opposites, however you look at it. But then does Sarah really want to be all prissy?

After having read 2 other books by her I did expect a bit of drama or something, but this was not that kind of book. This was all about the romance. Sarah struggles with her attraction as he is her boss's brother. And Lane really wants her. But she puts up quite the fight, good for her, he should work for it.

There is also a bit about her getting over something in the past and going back home. The town she never wanted to see again. She does have a few issues to deal with.

Conclusion:

All in all making this a sweet (and passionate) cowboy romance. Boy meets girl, the oldest story in the world, and just as lovely as always.

Cover:

Ok

Genre: Western romance / contemporary romance
Pages. 384
Published: June 1st 2012 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
Source: for review

Review: The Spirit Thief - Rachel Aaron

Eli Monpress is talented. He's charming. And he's a thief.

But not just any thief. He's the greatest thief of the age - and he's also a wizard. And with the help of his partners - a swordsman with the most powerful magic sword in the world but no magical ability of his own, and a demonseed who can step through shadows and punch through walls - he's going to put his plan into effect.

The first step is to increase the size of the bounty on his head, so he'll need to steal some big things. But he'll start small for now. He'll just steal something that no one will miss - at least for a while. Like a king.

My thoughts:

Sure it was good and all and I liked it, but I am feeling negative today. It's just one of those days. (edit: well it was one of those days last week or whenever I wrote this. It all goes together with those other reviews:)

I liked Eli, sure he was a bit too, dunno really, he was just a bit too much of something. Maybe it was the obsession with getting a big bounty on this head, now that just feels silly.

Josef I did not get, he was all I shall fight and not lean on my sword that has been given me (long story.) Nice though, their other partner, she has something. Must be the demon she is fighting inside of herself.

After them comes Miranda..*shrugs*. That was everything about her. Ok I am coming to the bottom of things now. I see. I liked the story, Eli is gonna steal a king, people want to catch him, something big is brewing and there is a cool system of magic. Everything, I mean everything has a spirit. But what the book was lacking was a well built world. A world can't stand on magic alone and I did not feel the world around me. Neither do I know if I want to meet these characters again. They did not make a long lasting impact on me. They worked for a book, but more *shrugs again*.

Conclusion:

Still I enjoyed the ride cos it was light and easy to read. That makes a book more than ok for me. I never struggled with anything, I was swept along. But, yeah, there could have been more. Very light fantasy.

B's cover snark:

Wipe that smug look off your face! Yes it just makes me want to slap him

Series: The Legend of Eli Monpress #1
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 310
Published: 2010 by Orbit
Source; Bookshelf