A very Austen Valentine Anthology

Six beloved authors deliver romantic Valentine novellas set in Jane Austen's Regency world. Robin Helm, Laura Hile, Wendi Sotis, and Barbara Cornthwaite, together with Susan Kaye and Mandy Cook, share variations of Pride and Prejudice, Persuasion, and Sense and Sensibility, featuring your favorite characters in sequels, adaptations, and spinoffs of Austen's adored novels. 

Experience uplifting romance, laugh-out-loud humor, and poignant regret as these authors deftly tug on your heartstrings this Valentine's Day. 

Kindle Edition, 479 pages

Published December 29th 2018

Series: Austen Anthology #2

Jane Austen variation

Own

I Dream of You by Robin Helm

A P&P sequel

Darcy is working too much, I should have written this review when I finished this short. I guess ok?

Sir Walter Takes A Wife by Laura Hile

A Persuasion sequel and P&P variation

This was interesting, Sir Walter is courting Lady de Bourgh. LOL. Funny

My Forever Valentine by Wendi Sotis

A P&P sequel variation

A rather sweet story

Pretense and Prejudice by Barbara Cornthwaite

A P&P variation

They both think the other one is a spy, I also liked that they met during other circumstances 

My Valentine by Mandy Cook

A P&P and a S&S sequel

This one was really dull, and was about lizzy and Darcy's kid

The Lover's Ruse by Susan Kaye

Persuasion Variation

Another boring one.

Some good, some not so good. You know, like all other anthologies.

Audio: How the Dukes stole Christmas - Anthology

A Holiday Romance Anthology

By: Tessa Dare, Sarah MacLean, Sophie Jordan, Joanna Shupe

Narrated by: Justine Eyre

Historical romance

Release date: 12-04-18

• Publisher: HarperAudio
• Thank you Harper for this review copy!

My Thoughts

"Meet Me in Mayfair" by Tessa Dare

Louisa Ward needs a Christmas miracle. Unless she catches a wealthy husband at the ball tonight, the horrid, heartless Duke of Thorndale will evict her family from their beloved Mayfair home. But when her friend begs to switch dance cards, Louisa finds herself waltzing with the enemy: the horrid, heartless--and unexpectedly handsome--Thorndale himself. Now the duke's holding her future in his hands...and he's not letting go.

This takes place under a rather magical night. Louisa meets her bitter enemy and shares a dance. And then they are sort of stuck with each other and get to know each other better. He is no ogre after all. No, James is a hardworking man who never wanted to be Duke. And Louisa just wants to save her family. 

It was a fun little story and I knew a little drama was coming but they handled it well.

"The Duke of Christmas Present" by Sarah MacLean

Rich and ruthless, Eben, Duke of Allryd, has no time for holidays. Holidays are for whimsy and charm--the only two things his money cannot buy. Lady Jacqueline Mosby is full of both, even now, twelve years after she left to see the world. When Jacqueline returns for a single Christmas, Eben can't resist the woman he never stopped loving...or the future that had once been in reach. It will take a miracle to convince her to stay...but if ever there were a time for miracles, it's Christmas.

I was not that keen on this one. It was rather depressing for a Christmas story. Eben is lonely and does nothing else but work. Once upon a time he wanted to marry Jaqueline, but he was busy saving his Dukedom to be worthy of her so he forgot her. I mean idiot much!

Jack loved him for the 12 years she was away and now she is back.

It just left me with the feeling that if he forgot about her once he will do so again. Rather depressing yes.

Heiress Alone by Sophie Jordan 

When Annis Bannister's family leaves her behind in the rush to escape an impending snowstorm, she finds herself stranded in the Highlands, left to fend off brigands terrorizing the countryside, robbing homes locked up for winter. Her only hope falls on her neighbor, a surly hermit duke who unravels her with a look, then a kiss ... until she fears the danger to her heart outweighs the danger of brigands and snowstorms. 

I liked this one. The Duke is so grumpy, and Annis is well normal! She wants some peace and quiet to read and garden. Her family gives me Pride and Prejudice vibes. Mum wants to marry off the daughters and they are so loud ;)

Then it becomes Home alone and she is left behind and there are bandits. Luckily for her a grumpy Duke is nearby and sparks fly as they spar and fall in love.

Of course I would have ADORED an epilogue when her mum comes back and is all omg wasn't it great we forgot you so you could catch a Duke. All loud and such.

Christmas in Central Park by Joanna Shupe. 

Women all over America devour Mrs. Walker's weekly column for recipes and advice. No one knows Rose, the column's author, can't even boil water. When the paper's owner, Duke Havemeyer, insists she host a Christmas party, Rose must scramble to find a husband, an empty mansion, and a cook. But Duke is not a man easily fooled and she fears her perfect plan is failing--especially when Duke's attentions make her feel anything but professional. To save her career will she give up her chance at love?

What? No real Duke, just a guy named Duke? Blasphemy!

Wow, the theme really is that all these Dukes are grinches. This one works works and works some more.'

In romance, all romance is plausible. But here it did stretch a bit, they had not spoken a lot. They fell in love, but really it was just lust since he thought she was married after all. But hey love is love and then they lived happily ever after.

Conclusion.

A nice little anthology with Dukes who are grinches for different reasons and need a bit of Christmas joy and a beautiful woman to get all merry with it.

Narrator

Justine Eyre

I do like her stuff! She is great fun as a narrator! She make her characters come alive.

Seasons of Sorcery anthology

Kindle Edition, 370 pages

Published November 13th 2018 by Brightlynx Publishing

Fantasy romance/UF

for review

My Thoughts and Synopsis

WINTER'S WEB BY JENNIFER ESTEP

An assassin at a renaissance faire. What could possibly go wrong? Everything, if you’re Gin Blanco. This Spider is trapped in someone else’s icy web—and it seems like they don’t want her to leave the faire alive . . .

The story was ok and all, but, I have only read one Gin book and that was ageeees ago. I never read more. And I did feel like fans would love this so much more. While I was all, ok she is an Assassin. I guess those are her friends and BF. So she kicks some ass and saves the day

A CURSE FOR SPRING BY AMANDA BOUCHET

A malevolent spell strangles the kingdom of Leathen in catastrophic drought. Prince Daric must break the curse before his people starve. A once-mighty goddess trapped in a human body might be the key—but saving his kingdom could mean losing all that he loves.

This was a nice fantasy romance. Leathen grows up with the former Goddess of Spring. Oh I would have liked more of that. I know that this was only a novella, but still! This would have been a great book.

The country is dying. Can Leathen and Rain save the day? There are baddies trying to stop them and well obvi these two will have feelings for each other. Took them long enough!

Nice story

THE DRAGONS OF SUMMER BY JEFFE KENNEDY

As unofficial consort to the High Queen, former mercenary Harlan Konyngrr faces a challenge worse than looming war and fearsome dragons. His long-held secrets threaten what he loves most—and he must make a choice between vows to two women.

I know I often say that everything works as a stand alone, but here, well you really should read the rest.

As for what happened...FINALLY! OMG I HAVE WAITED FOR THAT. Happiness is something all should have.

Also, when will we meet Jenna again? Is she still alive? Arghhhh

A WILDERNESS OF GLASS BY GRACE DRAVEN

The stretch of sea known as The Gray rules the lives of those in the village of Ancilar, including widow Brida Gazi. In the aftermath of an autumn storm, Brida discovers one of the sea's secrets cast onto the shore—a discovery that will change her world, mend her soul, and put her in the greatest danger she's ever faced. 

I did not expect that and I did learn something I always wondered about, well at least Draven came up for one explanation lol.

I have read a story set in this world before, or two? Interesting little town and now it is Brida's turn, a widow, to find something and oh I can not say too much! Spoilers.

Like maybe there is some romance *whistles*

Conclusion:

Two of these are stand alone and worked great as that. Another one does work on it's own, but I feel you get more for your money if you know the series. And the final one really should be read in its series. How else can you love Harlan and Essla!

Audio: Dangerous to know Anthology

"One has all the goodness, and the other all the appearance of it." —Jane Austen

Jane Austen’s masterpieces are littered with unsuitable gentlemen—Willoughby, Wickham, Churchill, Crawford, Tilney, Elliot, et al.—adding color and depth to her plots but often barely sketched. Have you never wondered about the pasts of her rakes, rattles, and gentlemen rogues? Surely, there's more than one side to their stories. 

It is a universal truth, we are captivated by smoldering looks, daring charms ... a happy-go-lucky, cool confidence. All the while, our loyal confidants are shouting on deaf ears, “He is a cad—a brute—all wrong!” But is that not how tender hearts are broken...by loving the undeserving? How did they become the men Jane Austen created?

In this romance anthology, eleven Austenesque authors expose the histories of Austen’s anti-heroes. "Dangerous to Know: Jane Austen’s Rakes & Gentlemen Rogues" is a titillating collection of Georgian era short stories—a backstory or parallel tale off-stage of canon—whilst remaining steadfast to the characters we recognize in Austen’s great works.

Audible Audio, 14 h
Published April 24th 2018 by The Quill Ink
Jane Austen variations
For review

My thoughts

And here come the tales of all those rakes and rogues you find in Austen. Some that I like, some that I detest and some that are fun to hate. 

“Willoughby’s Crossroads” (John Willoughby, Sense and Sensibility) by Joana Starnes

Oh Willoughby, I so saw you there and then you went and made a mess of things. It is a look at what happened before he ever met Marianne, and the choices he made.

 “A Wicked Game” (George Wickham, Pride and Prejudice) by Katie Oliver

I actually liked Wickham! He was just a young fool, who later in life made so many mistakes. Poor guy. And then he married Lydia in the end, I mean poor guy will pay for that his entire life. 

 “Fitzwilliam’s Folly” (Colonel Fitzwilliam, Pride and Prejudice) by Beau North; 

Fitzwilliam has a bit of a rep with the ladies, but he is an honorable rake, and here he meets his match

“The Address of a Frenchwoman” (Thomas Bertram, Mansfield Park) by Lona Manning;

MP is the one I have seen the least, or read. I really can not recall anything of Thomas, but I liked how he was here and how he fell in love.

 “Last Letter to Mansfield” (Henry Crawford, Mansfield Park) by Brooke West;

Oh Henry, you dug your own grave. I still liked him

 “An Honest Man” (Frank Churchill, Emma) by Karen M Cox; 

Nope, I will never like Frank. It was not a good thing he did, and here we see how he and Jane fell in love, or lust.

“One Fair Claim” (Sir Walter Elliot, Persuasion) by Christina Morland; 

Oh he was such a pompous fool!

“The Lost Chapter in the Life of William Elliot” (William Elliot, Persuasion) by Jenetta James;

I found myself liking him as he fell in love and I felt sorry for him

 “As Much as He Can” (General Tilney, Northanger Abbey) by Sophia Rose;

Yes, NA is another one that I do not know that well, but I take it from this that the General was not a good guy ;) But here, awww, I get man, I get it

 “The Art of Sinking” (John Thorpe, Northanger Abbey) by J. Marie Croft; 

Well this guy is just an idiot. Interesting to hear about, but what a rogue! You had it coming

“For Mischief’s Sake” (Captain Frederick Tilney, Northanger Abbey) by Amy D’Orazio

.THis even had me snorting. At first I was not sure what to make of him, but I guess I get it in a way, and then when he finds love. All is forgiven.

Conclusion:
All these rakes and rogues. Some I can not forgive, some are shown in such a good new light here, that I am inclined to forgive them. But they are all interesting to hear about. What made them into rakes and how it shaped their lives.

Narrator Andre Refig

I like his rake voice ;) They sound so very snobbish at times (in a good way) cos it is just so fitting.

Anthology review: Amid the Winter Snow

THE DARKEST MIDNIGHT, by Grace Draven

The mark Jahna Ulfrida was born with has made her a target of the cruel and idle all her life. During the long, crowded festivities of Deyalda, there’s nowhere to escape. Until a handsome stranger promises to teach her to save herself…

THE CHOSEN, by Thea Harrison

In her visions, Lily sees two men fighting for her tiny country’s allegiance: the wolf and the tiger, each deadly, each cunning. One will bring Ys chaos and death, one a gentler path—but she’s destined to love whichever she chooses. The midwinter Masque is upon them, and the wolf is at her door…

THE STORM, by Elizabeth Hunter

When her soul mate died in a massacre of the half-angelic Irin people, Renata thought she’d never feel happiness again. She’s retreated to the snowy Dolomites to remember her hurts—until determined, irrepressible Maxim arrives to insist on joy, too. And before she can throw him out, they discover a secret the Irin have to know…

THE SNOWS OF WINDROVEN, by Jeffe Kennedy

As a blizzard threatens their mountain keep, the new Queen Amelia of the Twelve Kingdoms and her unofficial consort Ash face their own storm. Ash knows a scarred, jumpy ex-convict isn’t the companion his queen needs. But when a surprise attack confines them together in their isolated sanctuary, the feast of midwinter might tempt even Ash into childlike hope… 

ebook, 431
Expected publication: December 12th 2017 by Brightlynx Publishing
Fantasy romance
For review

My thoughts:

The Darkest Midnight by Grace Draven

Oh it took me a while to realise where the story took place. It has been too long since I read that awesome book of hers! And this takes place in the same world, but another country.

I like Jahna, I felt sorry for her too, but she was great and knew what she wanted. To be a chronicler, you go girl.

And yes it is a romance, even if there is not a lot of romance. Just a dance between two people, but there will be  a happy ending even if I could not see it. But then, oh perfect for sure.

The Chosen by Thea Harrison

I never did see that other suitor, disappointed. But yes Lila meets the Wolf, they flirt. They will try to save her kingdom and live happily ever after. Nice story, nice setting and i would like more from this world.

Though her country sounds weak, sorry but true. No wonder someone wants to conquer it.

The storm by Elizabeth Hunter

Man meets woman, fall in love, and the story takes forever to end. 15 years! Damn he never gave up. I liked the story and the world, but at the same time it felt a bit too long. Maybe cos I had to charge the battery and it was uncomfortable, lol.

Jeffe Kennedy

I had not realise how much tension there was still between Ami and Ash. I mean I knew they were not married, I knew why, but poor Ash. I get it, half blood, ex convicts do not marry queens. And that is why this story was so needed, these two needed a conclusion. So what we have are two people, tired, and just wanting to be with each other but arguing instead. All while midwinter draws close. Oh and the kids are hilarious!

Conclusion:

I liked the xmas feel, even though there is no xmas since 3 of 4 takes place in fantasy world. But hey people celebrated before xmas and that is what they do here. Midwinter celebrations. I liked it.

Cover

Nice

Carole's Monday Review: Skies Over Tomorrow - Constellation - Kelly B Johnson

Author: Kelly B Johnson

Title: Skies Over Tomorrow - Constellation

Genre: Sci-Fi & Short Stories

Pages: 286

Published: July 2004

Where I Got It: My Shelf (Given to me by the author/publisher for my honest and unbiased opinion)

The revised version of the entertaining and astute anthology. Preluding an epic adventure, six short stories highlight the Galactic Federation of Mars as the superpower of the future and showcase life under its rule, and together, reveal an adversity of the imagination with a looming alien invasion.

This is an anthology of six short stories about the future on Mars. For this review, I'll review each short story:

Sailing Home

This one follows Simone. She is ordered to kill this guy and his wife. She has a lot of internal conflicts especially when she finds something out. She is a soldier during the war, but she also is human and taking a life is still not easy for her. However, Burke is right...you gotta do what you are told to do especially during war. I loved the internal conflict tho and it really made me like Simone. This was a good intro into the world. 

5 stars

Alien Femme

This one follows Naomi who is a B human was created by Carmichael in his dead daughters imagine. B humans, at least from my understanding, are pretty much Androids who were created to be human slaves and workers. Naomi is an exception of sorts. I really liked Naomi. At the beginning, I was worried she was going to be weak and be "helpless" when she is separated from her love, but she is actually a badass, so yayy there. Now, I was really confused for the majority of this, but I was intrigued to learn and understand more. I especially want to learn more about B humans. Gah! I hated the ending...I must know what happens next!!!!!!!!

3 stars

Mars Conspiracy

This one mainly follows Felix and Wilkes. Poor Felix and Hoku. I just wanted them to be together. So sad. This was decent at the beginning until the end. The end was so good. I do want to learn more and see what happens next with these characters. I do feel like they are going to play a big role in the future. I do wish this had been a little shorter - it felt too long. 

3 stars.

The Ritual

This story follows Chiera and her gang. I had a hard time following this particular story. I wasn't a huge fan of Chiera...she annoyed me SO much. There was a lot of action going on, which I did enjoy, but the characters and story were meh to me. The ending was intriguing though. 

2 stars (the action-y bits added an extra star).

The Encounters

Now, this one follows Rehana, Vincent, and their crew. I liked Rehana and I am curious to learn more about her. There seemed to be a lot going on externally and in-between the lines. I was confused a lot of the time, but a good confused (if that makes sense). My confusion made me curious to want to know more and see what everything means for the characters. I wish it had been longer so I could get more a better understanding.

3 stars. 

Of Lords and Ladies

This one follows Lady Ayame. This country/society on Mars seems to be different than the other cultures on Mars. It felt more Japanese and more rigid. This society seems to be tougher and more strict on its people. Poor Lady Ayame. It was really sad, but it was really good. I do want to read more about this side of Mars. 

4 stars. 

**Prologue/Epilogue/Art**

First, the prologue was decent. It was a nice way to start. However, I really liked the epilogue and I feel that would've been a good intro to the short stories. Carmichael, I feel, is going to be the main baddie in future stories/books. 

Now..let's look at the art. The author provided some additional drawings at the end of the book. They are pretty good. Better than I can ever do, so I can't be a good judge on this aspect. They are basic and does a good job bringing to life some of the characters and technology of this futuristic world. 

Conclusion

In the end, this was a fun read. I liked the stories and they all showed interesting glimpses of the Mars society. I liked the first and the last stories the best. The rest were okay. I do encourage checking this out if you like Sci-Fi stories. After doing the math, the overall rating I shall give this is....3 stars. 

About Carole the Reviewer

What is there really to say? I am of course a lover of books, poetry, movies, plays, and music. Nothing is better than enjoying a cup of tea and immersing yourself in another world and forgetting about the world for just a little bit. My cat and chinchillas keep me entertained over here in Michigan (the mitten state of the USA). I'm game for any genre of book or movie. You can find me over at Carole Rae's Random Ramblings.

Four weddings and a sixpence Anthology

“Something Old”

Julia Quinn’s prolog introduces her heroine Beatrice Heywood and the premise for Four Weddings and a Sixpence.

My thoughts:

Just an introduction to the women and the coin.

“Something New”

In Stefanie Sloane’s unforgettable story, an ever-vigilant guardian decrees that Anne Brabourne must marry by her twenty-first birthday. But love finds her in the most unexpected of ways.

Thoughts:

Anne needs to marry. She meets a Duke. They form a friendship while she hunts for a man.

Nice little story

“Something Borrowed”

Elizabeth Boyle tells the tale of Cordelia Padley, who has invented a betrothed to keep her family from pestering her to wed. Now she’ll need to borrow one to convince them she’s found her true love.

Thoughts:

I liked Cordelia. What an idiotic idea of hers, but it paid off. I liked that how much he really did love her.

“Something Blue”

In Laura Lee Guhrke’s story, unlucky Lady Elinor Daventry has her sixpence stolen from her and must convince the rake who pilfered the coin to return it in time for her own wedding.

Thoughts:

I was not sure about this hero, and even at the end. Hmm, I just do not know. But then her father was evil. Dilemma! Still a good story.

“... and a Sixpence in Her Shoe”

Julia Quinn finishes with the story of Beatrice Heywood, who never believed that the sixpence was anything but a tarnished old coin—until it led all of her friends to true love. But her faith in the coin is tested when it keeps sending her to the wrong man! 

Thoughts:

I do believe this to be my favorite. Bea lived a quiet life. Her hero wanted a quiet life after all the looks his eye gave him. People can be so cruel! A lovely story how they fell in love.

Conclusion:
This was an anthology that worked and all stories were strong. Cute, romantic and short.

ebook, 1st edition, 384 pages
Expected publication: December 27th 2016 by Avon
Historical romance
Edelweiss

Anthology: A Winter Wonderland

“A Winter Wonderland” by Fern Michaels

Angelica Shepard left New York for Christmas in Colorado to relax and unwind—but an out-of-control snowboarder almost had her laid to rest. When she wakes up in the hospital, all she remembers is the handsome angel who saved her…

“The Joy of Christmas” by Holly Chamberlin

Not all happiness is good for you—or that’s what Iris Karr thinks when she decides to move away instead of marrying her sweetheart Ben. Even years later, living with that decision isn’t easy—until a familiar face comes to call her home for the holidays…

“The Christmas Thief” by Leslie Meier

Elizabeth Stone is ready for a white Christmas in Tinker’s Cove, Maine—until a fancy Yule ball at the Florida hotel where she works dumps snow on her plans. The sponsor’s jewels have gone missing and the police are asking about her ties to a cute mystery guest. Good thing Elizabeth’s mother, Lucy Stone, flew down to surprise her. ‘Tis the season for a little investigating…

“The Christmas Collector” by Kristina McMorris

Estate liquidator Jenna Matthews isn’t one for Christmas nostalgia. But when one grandmother’s keepsakes suggest a secret life, unwrapping the mystery leads Jenna—and her client's handsome grandson—to the true heart of the holiday spirit… 

My thoughts:

“A Winter Wonderland” by Fern Michaels

Wow, talk about instalove! I know it's a novella, but wait..they met...they talked for a few secs the next day...then they were in love?

Omg so insta.

This one had a case of needed to be longer. Needed some meat on the bones. It could have made a cheesy hallmark movie for sure.

“The Joy of Christmas” by Holly Chamberlin

Sad fact, but it was so boring, snooze alert.

“The Christmas Thief” by Leslie Meier

She should change jobs and make new friends...just saying.

A theft at the hotel!....at the end, so before that the book is about man meeting woman.

“The Christmas Collector” by Kristina McMorris

I finished this one yesterday...and I have forgotten what it was about. It must have been really bad

ConclusioN:
All in all a meh anthology

Paperback, 471 pages
Published October 30th 2012 by Zebra
Contemporary romance
Own

Anthology: Teeth long and sharp

A collection of tales sharp and pointed.

IVORIES by Aria M. Jones - Eleanor resents the afternoons sacrificed to piano lessons and a disagreeable teacher who gloats over her failures and humiliations. Today, it’s Mrs. Lundemann’s turn for a sacrifice of a very different nature…

NIGHT TIDE by Grace Draven - Something hunts the surf at night, luring villagers to their deaths with a lullaby of sorrow and the torture of nightmares. Blessed with the gift of water-sight, Zigana Imre senses the presence of an ancient predator possessing a taste for human flesh sweetened by grief. With the help of a child of earth, she will battle a spawn of the sea to protect a loved one and save a man who will one day save a world. 

THE NOISE OF FUR by Jeffe Kennedy - The first time, it came at night…

In the forest, a Thing prowls, picking off members of young Raven’s tribe. If they flee their home, they face starvation. If only Raven can answer the question of what kind of fur makes that noise.

VENETRIX by Antioch Grey - A merchant and a poet come to the City, seeking justice for the murder of a relative, and if justice cannot be found, they will have revenge. They collude with vampires, negotiate with mermaids, share ale and meat pies with gargoyles and navigate the prisons, waterways and court system of a city ruled by a Master possessing long life and even longer teeth.

The City will make you a fortune, or it will kill you, but it will always change you.

THE VAMPIRES OF MULBERRY STREET by Aria M. Jones - Living the simple life in small town Indiana, Mrs. H has everything she could possibly ever want: a cozy house, peace and quiet, and a garden that is the envy of Mulberry Street. But when sinister outsiders disrupt the tranquility of her neighborhood, it might be time for her to come out of retirement and take up tools more deadly than pruning shears and a trowel.

VOICE OF THE KNIFE by Mel Sterling - Biologist Charles Napier doesn’t mind getting lost in a Florida swamp—it’s part of a scientist’s job. Logic and training will get him out safely. Except lurking in this swamp, there’s a monster Napier’s science can’t explain...a lonely, exquisite, desperate monster.

My thoughts:

This anthology has a couple of novellas in it. Scary? Not really. Just you know, stories. With some creepy paranormal vibes.

IVORIES by Aria M. Jones

A kid hates playing the piano. And something strange will happen during the lesson. To be honest I am still not sure what happened. I must have missed something.

NIGHT TIDE by Grace Draven 

I liked this one. Something is out there in the water, our heroine has water sight or what it was called, and something needs to be done. We also learn about her village and family. But there was one thing that rubbed me the wrong way, certain feelings she had. It just made me dislike her at the end.

THE NOISE OF FUR by Jeffe Kennedy - The first time, it came at night…

There is something hunting in the forest killing. What is it? 

I was reading and noticed 3 names that means Raven in other languages, so I checked, and yes it was a theme. I liked that, very cool. Nice twist too.

VENETRIX by Antioch Grey 

It has promise, but it went on too long. Which is a weird thing saying about a novella. I just wish they had cut to the chase. But the world was interesting and it would be a good fantasy novel.

THE VAMPIRES OF MULBERRY STREET by Aria M. Jones - 

This one was a bit, what is happening? The whole X thing came around so what? Anyway vampires, a nice old lady next doors. What will happen?

VOICE OF THE KNIFE by Mel Sterling - 

This one had a really slow beginning, but then it picked up as the guy goes further into the swamps, and there is something there...there it did get interesting.

So yes, not scary. Just paranormal stuff with no happy endings. Bad things will happen, bad things are out there and want blood. Some good, some got better. As always then.

Interesting stories .

Kindle Edition 276
Published October 4th 2016
Paranormal, fantasy
For an honest review

Sword and Sorceress Anthology

They roam through fantasy landscapes - women who wield a sword in their sisters' defense or work magic passed down through generations. They are many heroines of SWORD AND SORCERESS - brave women who have adopted the daring roles so often deemed to be the exclusive province of men.

Join Diana L Paxson, Esther M Friesner, Rosemary Edghill, Leslie Fish, Dorothy j Heydt and their fellow spell-weavers as they carry on Marion Zimmer Bradley's proud, feminist tradition in the twenty-three original, swashbuckling and magical stories of SWORD AND SORCERESS XXI, where:

A family of thieves is sorely disappointed by their daughter's wizarding ambitions...

A warrior with amnesia is taught a lesson she could never have learned if she remembered her past...

A girl is turned down by a school of magic because of her sex, only to become the disciple of a far more powerful mentor...

An arrogant mage is taught that even the most powerful of sorcerers sometimes needs the help of material weapons...

My thoughts:

Most were pretty boring and I could have dnfed, but then you never know if there will be a good ones since they are all shorts.

I honestly do not remember anything or any names, I only wrote down thoughts after the two fist ones. I did remember like 2 other ones only cos they were good.

"Dawn and Dusk," by Dana Kramer-Rolls

I liked this one, a nice feel to it

"Spell of the Sparrow," by Jim C. Hines

Meh

"The Woman's Place," by Susan Urbanek Linville; "Kin," by Naomi Kritzer; "Ursa," by Jenn Reese; "Red Caramae," by Kit Wesler; "Parri's Blade," by Cynthia McQuillin, = I can't even remember these

"Sun Thief," by K. A. Laity,

Ohh, Finnish mythology. No it was not only cos of that that I liked it, but I did. It was a good short that had me hooked.

"Lostland," by Rosemary Edghill; No memory of this one

"Plowshares," by Rebecca Maines, 

This one I remember having promise

"Step by Step," by Catherine Soto; "Favor of the Goddess," by Lynn Morgan Rosser, "Rose in Winter," by Marie M. Longhin, "Kazhe's Blade," Terry McGarry, =what?

"The Skin Trade," by Heather Rose Jones, 

This one could have been a good fantasy book, it had an interesting concept.

"Multiple Choice," by Leslie Fish, "Oulu," by Aimee Kratts, "A Kind of Redemption," by John P. Buentello, and "Journey's End," by Dorothy J. Heydt. The one two-page poem, "Sword and Sorceress," is by Jennifer G. Tifft. =yup, nothing

Conclusion:
I honestly skimmed most. The good ones did not outweigh the bad ones. So...90% bad. I do not recommend it, except for the few good ones.

Paperback, 308 pages
Published November 2nd 2004 by DAW
Sword and Sorceress #21
Fantasy
Own

Mash Up - Gardner Dozois

Pride and Prejudice meets Macbeth by way of Moby Dick and a dollop of the speculative, in this hugely entertaining anthology where authors such as John Scalzi get inspiration for short stories from the first lines of famous works of literature. Edited by hugely respected anthologist Gardner Dozois, the collection includes stories by John Scalzi, Tad Williams, Elizabeth Bear and many others. 

My thoughts:

A collection of stories inspired by first lines, and I will do it as always do. Talk a bit about every story. So let us begin.

Fireborn (Rootabaga stories) by Robert Charles Wilson

Set in the future where a war tore mankind apart, I guess. It was interesting and good, and I'd read more from this author. Though I have no idea where that first line is from. 

The evening line (Pride and Prejudice) by Mike Resnick

The story is from Resnick's world, and frankly the whole story was meh.

No decent patrimony (Edward II) by Elizabeth Bear

A son talks about his dead father. Set in a world where the rich can live forever. Interesting premise. Would make a good movie when I think about it

The Big whale (Moby Dick) by Allen M Steele

A Moby Dick story about a PI. Good story and was set in the actual world of it so...

Begone (David Copperfield) by Daryl Gregory

A man is usurped by another. Great story, I should try more from this author.

The red menace (The communist manifesto) by Lavie Tidhar

An alternative history where Soviet became Soviet first in the 30s. Maybe they did not kill 50 mil of their own people then, one can always hope. It was a scary world filled with bombs.

Muse of Fire (Henry V) by John Scalzi

A man and his strange girlfriend. I liked the twist of it all.

Writer's block (Paul Clifford) by nancy Kress

A writer with a messy life, that takes a turn for the worst. This one got interesting.

Highland Reel (McBeth) by Jack Campbell

A historical about the Highlands. Awesome story, my fav of them all.

Karen Coxswain (Huckelberry Finn) by Paul Di Filippo

A captain in hell tells her story, and I was bored.

The Lady Astronaut (The wizard of oz) by Mary Robinette Kowal

People settled on Mars and an Astronaut gets another chance. Nice story, I liked how it all tied together.

Every fuzzy beast of the earth, every pink fowl of the air (Bible) by Tad Williams
Amazing story about the creation of the world...ok so this is my second fav of these stories. it was fantastic and funny. Hilarious.

Decleration (the decleration of independence) by James Patrick Kelly

Kids wants to live in virtual reality. I did not really get it

Some good, some funny, some kind of meh,  some, well you get the point. They were all different genres.  I also liked how it was a  fast read

Conclusion:
A good anthology 

Paperback, 432 pages
Published June 7th 2016 by Titan Books
Anthology
For review

Review and Giveaway: A Fine Stout Love - Renee Beyea

Discover what happens when Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy meet fancy and fantasy in this novella-length ensemble of Regency stories. 

- What if two inexplicable trails of words led to the Meryton churchyard on the same blustery morning? 

- What if Darcy stumbled across suggestive lines of verse following Elizabeth’s stay at Netherfield?

- What if a rumored engagement so thoroughly shocked Lady Catherine that she could not interfere?

- What if Elizabeth learned the last man she would ever marry was the only man she could marry?

- What if every Bennet family member read the love poem Darcy intended only for his bride? 

My thoughts:

This was a short anthology with 5 stories in it. So let us start.

'Words in the Wind'

A cute story where Lizzy follows notes left for her and well duh, she meets Darcy and they fall madly in love. But who put the notes there? Ohhh spooky.

'A Fine Stout Love'

A short one where Lizzy is the poet and they have a meeting.

'Neither Slumber Nor Sleep'

I liked this one and the humour at one part. Lizzy and Darcy meets, talk some and finds themselves in a situation.

'Gold, All Gold'

Freaky stuff where she has some weird powers and they see a bit more than they bargained for.

'Eden Unashamed'

Awww oh Darcy. He writes poetry to her and everyone else sees it before. I liked how it changed the whole household.

All in all, sweet stories, short stories, but in all she and him got to know each other in different ways, at different times, and also saw how they were always meant to be.

Conclusion:

Cute. 

Kindle Edition, First Edition, 214 pages
Published January 6th 2016 by Oakham Press
Pride & Prejudice Petite Tales #1
Pride and Prejudice variation
For review

GIVEAWAY

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Details: 8 books, open internationally (including up to 4 paperback)

AUTHOR BIO

Renée Beyea holds an undergraduate writing degree from Taylor University and a Master of Divinity from Fuller Seminary. She serves as full-time wife, mother to two sons, and ministry partner with her husband, an Anglican priest and chaplain. Her free time is devoted to crafting stories and composing poetry that delight the senses and touch the soul. (Photo attached separately.)

AUTHOR CONTACT and SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

• Email: renee.beyea@gmail.com
• Website: www.reneebeyea.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/reneebeyea
• Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27147359-a-fine-stout-love-and-other-stories?from_search=true&search_version=service

BLOG TOUR SCHEDULE

5/2: Excerpt & Giveaway at From Milton to Pemberley

5/3: Guest Post & Giveaway at So Little Time…

5/4: Excerpt & Giveaway at Half Agony, Half Hope

5/5: Review & Giveaway at The Calico Critic

5/6: Guest Post & Giveaway at Austenesque Reviews

5/7: Guest Post & Giveaway at Babblings of a Bookworm

5/8: Review & Giveaway at Delighted Reader

5/9: Review & Giveaway at Austenesque Reviews

5/10: Interview & Giveaway at Savvy Verse and Wit

5/11: Review & Giveaway at Diary of an Eccentric

5/12: Review & Giveaway at Just Jane 1813

5/12: Excerpt & Giveaway at Laughing with Lizzie

5/13: Review & Giveaway at Book Girl of Mur-y-Castell

5/14: Excerpt & Giveaway at My Kids Led Me Back to Pride and Prejudice

5/15: Excerpt & Giveaway at Best Sellers and Best Stellars

5/16: Review & Giveaway at Margie’s Must Reads

BUY LINKS (US)

• Retail price: $2.99 e-book and $8.99 paperback (bit.ly links included for convenience)
• Amazon.com: http://amzn.to/1MJo9od or http://www.amazon.com/Fine-Stout-Love-Other-Stories-ebook/dp/B016E6VKXO/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8
• Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/FSLnook or http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-fine-stout-love-and-other-stories-renee-beyea/1122782686?ean=2940152402568
• Smashwords (ebook only): http://bit.ly/FSLsmash or https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/583950
• 
  

Shifting Shadows - Patricia Briggs

Mercy Thompson’s world just got a whole lot bigger…

A collection of all-new and previously published short stories featuring Mercy Thompson, and the characters she calls friends…

Includes the new stories…

“Silver”

“Roses in Winter”

“Redemption”

“Hollow”

My thoughts:

Some good, some meh, like all anthologies then ;)

“Silver”

I always loved Sam, I did want Sam and Mercy to be together. I know I know, he was desperate and she and Adam was so meant to be.

Back to the story....this is about Sam way way back when he was trapped by his evil grandmother and met Ariana for the first time.

“Roses in Winter”

A story about Asil and Kara. This was a good one. And we got Bran! Any story with Bran is a good one ;)

“Redemption”

I really like Ben. He is funny in his scary weird way.

“Hollow”

Mercy hunts a ghost.

“Fairy Gifts”

Since I did just read the last book I had Thomas and Margaret in mind. But the best part was the FInnish mythology

“Gray”

Some vamp and a ghost. Meh

“Alpha and Omega”

I re-read it. I remember not liking it the first time, and it did take me until book 3 to like this couple But suddenly this time around the story of how Charles and Anna met was so good.

“Seeing Eye”

I had totally forgotten this one even though I just read it...not a good sign

“The Star of David”

A wolf helps his daughter.

“In Red, with Pearls”

Warren does some investigating. Good but still eh

Conclusion:

Made me want to re-read the series

Hardcover, 450 pages
Published September 2nd 2014 by Ace
Mercy Thompson 0.1/0.6/0.8/1.5/4.5/5.5/7.4, Mercy Thompson World - Complete, Alpha & Omega 0.1, 0.5 .....
Urban fantasy
Own

A Gentleman for All Seasons Anthology

The tiny village of Hemshawe is the sort of place where nothing ever happens…until a handsome ex-soldier and his matchmaking sister let the imposing manor house at the edge of town. The friendly Londoners shake up the staid people of Hemshawe, and villagers see each other in a new and oh-so-appealing light. 

Suddenly long-sparring enemies become lovers, a town festival heralds a new start for a fallen woman and a dandy, and a man who has given up on love gets a second chance with the woman he never forgot. And the matchmaker herself? She won’t rest until she finds her own happily-ever-after… 

A Madness in Spring by Kate Noble 

Adam Sturridge has made Belinda Leonard’s blood boil since childhood, and the feeling is mutual. But when a would-be matchmaker arrives in the village of Hemshawe, she’d determined to erase the thin line between love and hate. Now, Belinda and Adam are faced with falling for someone they’ve always considered an enemy — can they overcome old prejudices and discover how to rub each other the right way? 

The Summer of Wine and Scandal by Shana Galen 

When viscount’s son and dandy Peregrine Lochley is temporarily exiled from London to the country for his misdeeds, the last thing he expects is to encounter an intriguing woman. But Caroline Martin has a secret to hide, and it just might be too scandalous for even this debauched rogue. 

Those Autumn Nights by Theresa Romain 

Ten years ago, wealthy Eliza Greenleaf broke lowly soldier Bertram Gage’s heart—but the last decade brought changes in fortune to them both. Now that he’s made his mark on the world, a twist of fate brings the Greenleaf family under his power. Will this war-hardened officer triumph over his former lover…or will Bertie and Eliza give love a second chance? 

The Season for Loving by Vanessa Kelly 

Miss Georgie Gage, matchmaker extraordinaire, is resigned to life as a spinster—almost. When notoriously aloof bachelor Fergus Haddon arrives from Scotland to spend Christmas with the Gage family, Georgie thinks she’s finally found her own perfect match—if, that is, she can get the handsome Highlander to agree! 

My thoughts:

A Madness in Spring by Kate Noble 

Enemies to lovers, yay. Yes I adore that. They were enemies for silly childhood reasons though, but enemies none the less. Belinda and Adam has teased each other for 15 years, but then a matchmaker shows up. Haha, good for her, they obviously liked each other behind all that you are so annoying. So let's make them realise that.

I liked her, I liked him, I liked the dance between them. A nice spring story.

The Summer of Wine and Scandal by Shana Galen 

Here comes the summer story. Peregrine, a real dandy, meets Caroline, who is not worried when she gets muddy. She thinks him a dandy (duh), he likes her. But she has a secret, and trust me this was a SECRET. It made me sad, I felt so sorry for her. Cos it is a SECRET. But it's also a romance and they lived happily ever after. Nice

Those Autumn Nights by Theresa Romain 

Autumn comes and Bertie meets Eliza, the woman he used to love. Who chose her family over a poor soldier. But then he rented her family home cos they got poor, and he was all, ha, look at me now.

But again, this is a romance, so they will end up together after some drama. And all is well.

The Season for Loving by Vanessa Kelly 

The last one is one for Christmas. Georgie, who helped all previous couples end up together, wants freedom of her own. But then this sexy brooding Scot shows up. And she likes him, but he is all my past! Alas, we cannot. But then they lived happily ever after.

Oh I enjoyed this! I liked that it was set in the same village, the same people were around, sure new people showed up so they could find love, but the it was like I knew the village and those in it. I also liked that it was one story for each season.

Conclusion:
A sweet anthology, that does not feel like an anthology as everything is connected and continues :)

Kindle Edition, 356 pages
Expected publication: November 10th 2015
Historical romance
For review