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Showing posts with label 2016 NetGalley Challenge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2016 NetGalley Challenge. Show all posts

Monday, January 2, 2017

MBS- 2016 Netgalley Reading Challenge - Completed

2016 Netgalley Reading Challenge
hosted by Ariel at Fictively.com;

2016netgalleychallenge
Rules and sign up can be found HERE.

I read 37 books from NetGalley in 2014 and 44 books in 2015 so I am chose the Hardcore level this year to get to 41 titles:

I counted four eTreasure titles that I read as I formatted for NetGalley upload. I hope they count.
At the end of the year I had to add a couple of children's titles to get this completed. (I should have kept better track/count.)

  1. NG-TBR-- Book Review: The Dirt on Ninth Grave (Charley Davidson Book 9) by Darynda Jones; Fantasy; my rating 4.25.
  2. NG-TBR-- Book Review: Jessica's Christmas Kiss: (Christmas Kisses Book 3) by Alison May; Romance, Holiday; my rating 4.5.
  3. NG-TBR-- Book Review: Night Study (Study Series) by Maria V. Snyder; Paranormal, Fantasy; my rating 5.0.
  4. NG-TBR-- Book Review: Brilliance (The Brilliance Trilogy Book 1) by Marcus Sakey; Sci Fi, Suspense Thriller; my rating 5.0.
  5. NG-TBR-- Book Review: Extreme Honor (True Heroes) by Piper J. Drake; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5.
  6. NG-TBR-- Book Review: Steamborn (Steamborn Series) (Volume 1) by Eric R Asher; Sci Fi, Fantasy, Steampunk; my rating 4.25.
  7. NG-TBR--Book Review: Emmy Nation: Undercover Suffragette (The Suffragette Nation Book 1) by L Davis Munro; Historical Fiction, Women's Suffrage; my rating 5.0.
  8. NG--Book Review: The God's Eye View by Barry Eisler; Suspense Thriller, Political; my rating 4.5.
  9. NG-TBR--Book Review: Dear Emma by Katie Heaney; Coming of Age, College Romance; my rating 4.0.
  10. NG-TBR-- Book Review: Path of the Bullet by M C Jacques; Mystery, Crime Thriller; my rating 4.25.
  11. NG-TBR-- Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Breaking the Story (Scottie's Adventures Book 2) by Ashley Farley; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.0.
  12. NG-TBR-- Book Review: Chakana: Encounter In The Sacred Valley by W.E. Lawrence; Action Adventure; my rating 4.25.
  13. NG-- Book Review: The Cracked Spine: A Scottish Bookshop Mystery by Paige Shelton; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.5.
  14. NG-Tour-- Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Nobody But You (Cedar Ridge) by Jill Shalvis; Contemporary Romance my rating 4.0.
  15. NG-- Book Review: What We Find by Robyn Carr; Contemporary Romance, Small Town; my rating 4.25.
  16. NG--Book Review: Much Ado About Highlanders (The Scottish Relic Trilogy) by May McGoldrick; Scottish, Historical Romance; my rating 4.5.
  17. NG--Book Review: Hold Your Breath (Search and Rescue) by Katie Ruggle; Sci Fi, Fantasy; my rating 5.0.
  18. NG-- Book Review: Admiral (An Evagardian Novel) by Sean Danker; Sci Fi; my rating 4.5
  19. eTP-NG 31 Fun Ways to Increase Your Child’s Attention Span by Dr. Jackie Paxton
  20. NG-- Book Review: Laos File (The Shake Davis Series) by Dale Dye; Military Thriller; my rating 5.0.
  21. NG-- Book Review: A Better World by Marcus Sakey; Sci Fi, Suspense Thriller; my rating 4.25.
  22. NG-- Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Ultimate Courage (True Heroes) by Piper J. Drake; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.5.
  23. NG-- Book Review: A License to Wed: Rebellious Brides by Diana Quincy; Historical Romance; my rating 4.25.
  24. NG-- Book Review: Machinations by Hayley Stone; Sci Fi, Suspense Thriller; my rating 4.25.
  25. NG-- Book Review: The Bluebonnet Betrayal, A Potting Shed Mystery by Marty Wingate; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.25.
  26. NG-- Book Review: The Cat, The Collector and the Killer by Leann Sweeney; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.5.
  27. NG-- Book Review: The Crêpes of Wrath, A Pancake House Mystery by Sarah Fox; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.5.
  28. NG-- Book Review: Inquisitor by Mitchell Hogan; Sci Fi, Space Thriller; my rating 4.25.
  29. NG-- Book Review: The Captive Heart by Michelle Griep; Christian, Historical Romance; my rating 4.75.
  30. eTP-NG-- Fractal by Rachel Mannino
  31. eTP NG-- The Handy Dandy Quick Reference Guide For Teachers Working with Children with Academic by Dr. Jackie Paxton
  32. NG--Book Review: The Steam Man of the Prairies by Edward S. Ellis; Vintage Sci Fi; my rating 4.0.
  33. NG--Book Review: Extracted (The Lost Imperials Series Book 1) by Sherry D. Ficklin and Tyler H. Jolley; Sci Fi, Steampunk, Time Travel; my rating 4.25.
  34. NG--Book Review: Written in Fire (The Brilliance Trilogy Book 3) by Marcus Sakey; Sci Fi, Thriller, Dystopian; my rating 4.5.
  35. eTP-NG-- Grandma's Face Tells her Story by Elaine McKay.
  36. NG--Book Review: The Reader by M.K. Harkins; Sci Fi, Paranormal, YA; my rating 4.5.
  37. NG--Book Review: The Wrong Unit by Rob Dircks; Sci Fi, Dystopian; my rating 5.0.
  38. NG--Book Review: Toru: Wayfarer Returns by Stephanie R. Sorensen; Sci Fi, Steampunk; my rating 4.5.
  39. NG--Book Review: The Circuit: Executor Rising by Rhett C. Bruno; Sci Fi, Space Opera; my rating 4.0.
  40. NG--Book Review: Cooked Goose (Big Mike and Minnie) by Susan Amanda Kelly; Romantic Comedy, Holiday; my rating 4.5
  41. NG--Book Review: Mrs. White Rabbit by Gilles Bachelet; Children; my rating 4.0.
  42. NG--Book Review: Reading is for Idjits! by W. W. Rowe; Children; my rating 3.5.

Friday, December 30, 2016

Book Review: The Circuit: Executor Rising by Rhett C. Bruno

This has lots of high tech, action and some interesting characters, but I found the plot a bit confusing.
The Circuit: Executor Rising
by Rhett C. Bruno
File Size: 4070 KB
Print Length: 276 pages
Publisher: Diversion Books (May 19, 2015)
ASIN: B00XAUYRY2
Genre: Sci Fi, Space Opera
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0


"A hard-charging opener to a promising, if bloody, space-opera series." —KIRKUS
Centuries after Earth was rendered an uninhabitable wasteland, humanity was forced from its homeworld and founded the Kepler Circuit, a string of colonies throughout the solar system. These settlements provide resources to the remnants of humankind, the most important resource being the newly discovered element—Gravitum—found only in the Earth’s unstable mantle.
But a powerful religious faction known as the New Earth Tribunal has risen to preside over most of the Circuit. Though there is barely a faction left to challenge them, a string of attacks on the Tribunal’s freighters causes them to suspect their mortal enemies, the Ceresians, of foul play.
Tasked with solving the problem is Sage Volus: Tribunal Executor. Spy.
Sage quickly infiltrates the ranks of a roguish, Ceresian mercenary named Talon Rayne, seeking to discover the truth behind the attacks, but the longer she works amidst Talon and his squad, the more she finds her faith in the Tribunal tested.
While her quest for answers only unearths more questions, a new threat is on the rise, and it plans to bring down the Tribune once and for all.


Review:
Sage Volus is a Tribunal Executor who handles the necessary enforcement against those who violate the rules of the cult-like Circuit Tribunal. She also serves as a spy when so instructed. It is a rough job but she dedicated herself at a time when she had nothing else to live for.

Cassius Vale is a rare commodity. He is an Ex-Tribune and there are those who would prefer to see him dead. Cassius son, Caleb, was married to Sage. Seven years ago, Caleb died while exploring new growth on the husk of old earth. Sage was injured in the explosion too, but Cassius made sure she survived.

Cassius has broken faith with the Tribunal whom he blames for his son’s death. He has put into place a plan to circumvent the control of the Circuit, or at least to create chaos. After all, he is known as ‘creator’ to his Automated Dynamic Intelligence Mech (ADIM).

Sage is directed by the Tribune to investigate the attacks on the Circuit freighters. Some suspect their mortal enemies, the Ceresians, but one or two of the Tribune suspect Cassius. Sage manages to infiltrate the team of a Ceresian mercenary named Talon Rayne. The things Sage discovers begin to test her previously unquestioned devotion to the Tribunal. And facts have only begun to surface.

I really liked ADIM as an AI character, although he is a bit brutal in his approach to his tasks. Sage is a Kick-butt character and I liked that she has feelings even after years of trying to numb her heart. I liked Cassius but honestly, I am not sure if he is good, bad or simply mad.

The story moves at a good pace with lots of action and high tech. It is not one that can be read lightly as it takes concentration to follow what is happening. It didn’t seem totally clear what had happened to destroy earth and why the Circuit had to rely on the Gravitum from earth. Even when finished I felt confused as this seemed like the second book in a series that didn’t pull in all the backstory. There were numerous grammar errors plus the story ends without wrapping up either line of action, for Sage or Cassius. So – I liked the basics but it has some drawbacks. I noted that the reviews on book two are favorable so that is a good sign.

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Thursday, December 29, 2016

Book Review: Reading is for Idjits! by W. W. Rowe

This has great illustrations and a well meaning message; but I have some cautionary concerns.
Reading is for Idjits!
by W. W. Rowe (Author), Charles A Filius (Illustrator)
File Size: 18529 KB
Print Length: 98 pages
Publisher: Charwood Publications (May 26, 2016)
ASIN: B01G87KU0S
Genre: Children
My Rating 3.5 of 5.0


Martin and Morton are identical twins! Which one is which? "Smarty Marty" loves to read. "Morton the Moron" hates it. "Reading is for idjits!" he declares. But Morton's faulty reading gets him into BIG trouble. His entire world falls apart! After a series of humorous disasters, Morton finally learns to read. He even saves the day with his new skill!


Review:
This quick story tells how Morton gets into trouble repeatedly when he misreads signs. The mistakes are funny until they start getting Morton injured. Ultimately his misreading leads to a very dangerous event, at which point his mother punishes him until he learns to read properly.  Finally he learns to love reading too.

I really enjoyed the fun illustrations in this book which are much more creative than the cover might suggest. But the cover did get my attention to look at the rest. 

I had some concerns about calling any child a "moron" as I totally discourage name calling. There are additional negatives, including the "idjit" phrase of course. I am also pretty doubtful that punishing a child to make them read will make them like or enjoy reading. I learned with an oppositional child that it is better to find reward structures than punishing structures.

As humorous as the story is and as cute as the pictures are, the more I thought about reading this with a reluctant reader the more I wondered if it would work. Making reading fun is the goal... and this book does make it fun so it might be worth a try with the right child and an adult to discourage the negatives of name calling.

I received this book through NetGalley. It helped to complete my NetGalley Challenge for 2016.

Tuesday, December 27, 2016

Book Review: Mrs. White Rabbit by Gilles Bachelet

This is delightful especially for fans of the classic Alice in Wonderland!
Mrs. White Rabbit 
by Gilles Bachelet

Age Range: 6 - 10 years
Grade Level: 1 - 4
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
(February 6, 2017)
ISBN-10: 0802854834
Genre: Children's
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0*


A hilarious twist on a classic tale.
Alice in Wonderland is one of the great classics of children's literature, but what does anyone actually know about Wonderland? Through the diary of the White Rabbit's extremely busy wife, readers finally get to see what happens in the background during Alice's adventures.
Mrs. White Rabbit loves her husband and their many children, but with an invisible housecat from Cheshire and a young female visitor who frequently changes size, living in Wonderland comes with a number of challenges.
With an abundance of wit and charm, Mrs. White Rabbit gives Lewis Carroll's famous tale a refreshingly modern twist.


Review:
As the description notes, this is a view into the diary of the beleaguered wife of the White Rabbit. With five children you can imagine she is very busy and doesn't appreciate the addition of a transparent cat and a young woman who can't control her size.

I thought the story was fun and creative. It could be considered a quick read but that would be such an injustice. You can't just read through quickly because there is so much to see on each page. The illustrations are fabulous, creative and many! As a fan of Alice in Wonderland I had to stop on each page and look at the drawings that relate back to the original classic.

This is set out as a children's book and I don't think that is the best audience. Perhaps if a child has recently read Alice in Wonderland, he or she might get the humor and the irony, especially with the help of an adult to point out the scenes and characters that fill this book.

*I didn't give this a 5 star rating only because I am not sure it is fitted to the target audience. However, it would definitely get my recommendation for any mature or adult enthusiast of the classic Alice in Wonderland.

I received this title as a NetGalley pdf. It adds to my NetGalley Challenge.
(I realized I was a few books short for my NetGalley Challenge so I picked up some children's titles to test for my grandchildren... and to enjoy myself!)

Thursday, December 22, 2016

Book Review: Cooked Goose (Big Mike and Minnie) by Susan Amanda Kelly

This is quick, fun entertainment; smiles for $.99!
Cooked Goose (Big Mike and Minnie)
by Susan Amanda Kelly
File Size: 1202 KB
Print Length: 49 pages
Publisher: Gomboc Words (December 6, 2015)
ASIN: B018K27GRE
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Holiday
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


Mistletoe mayhem! Cooked Goose is a hilarious holiday love story filled with sizzle, sugar, and sass...
“Your father called me. He invited me for Christmas. I have a ticket for the same flight as you. Tonight.”
With those words, Big Mike sucked the oxygen out of the room. Minnie intended her father would meet her new man, Big Mike… eventually. Minnie wanted to give Daddy time to get used to the idea that his 'little girl' is embroiled in a serious relationship. A few decades, perhaps. Because Daddy’s not your run-of-the-mill protective father - he's a criminal. But now Minnie is heading home for the holidays with Big Mike in tow.
Big Mike is no delicate violet. He’s quiet and lethal, an ex-Special Forces soldier whose day job involves ‘keeping the Free World safe’. But Big Mike doesn’t want to spoil Minnie’s Christmas and promises not to hurt anyone… His resolve will be tested by Minnie’s father, her psycho brother and three outlaw lieutenants who want his woman.
*This is a 12,000 word story packed with everything needed for a very merry Christmas: love, family, laughter and psychos.


Review:
Minnie’s father is the head of an outlaw motorcycle gang in California. When Minnie was young, her father kept the outlaw ‘lieutenants’ away with strict orders: they could protect her but Not touch her.

Minnie became a super model and moved to New York where she could live her life without her unusual family. Minnie’s brother, Crash, is a bit on the wild side. He knew Mike in the army and introduced Minnie to Mike. She is crazy about the 6’6” hulking, ex-military man who now runs a security business.

Minnie’s father, Snake, unexpectedly invites Big Mike to join them for Christmas. Minnie is fearful that Snake will take Mike into the desert to kill him for being with daddy’s ‘little girl’. Mike is willing to take his chances and promises that he won’t fight anyone. Really – it takes a lot to rile him.

When the pair arrive in California they discover that Snake has also invited three of his lieutenants and removed the earlier restrictions. These circumstances may just lead to situations that rile Big Mike – at least a little.

The entire story is a hoot! The handling of the ‘competition’ by Mike and Minnie is hilarious! The characters are very likeable and the story plot is complete even for a short novella. Maybe it isn’t great literature—but it sure is quick, fun entertainment. This does not need to be limited to Christmas reading although the setting fits the fun. To quote Crash “Best Christmas ever!” I would like to try a longer story by Ms. Kelly. I highly recommended this for readers who want quick laughs and smiles.

I received this ebook through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Saturday, December 17, 2016

Book Review: Toru: Wayfarer Returns by Stephanie R. Sorensen

This is a strong steampunk adventure sharing a tale of patriotism, honor and love.
Toru: Wayfarer Returns
by Stephanie R. Sorensen
File Size: 826 KB
Print Length: 276 pages
Publisher: Palantir Press; 1 edition (February 16, 2016)
ASIN: B01AOWGP9S
Genre: Sci Fi, Alternate History
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


Revolutionary young samurai with dirigibles take on Commodore Perry and his Black Ships in this alternate history steampunk technofantasy set in 1850s samurai-era Japan.
In Japan of 1852, the peace imposed by the Tokugawa Shoguns has lasted 250 years. Peace has turned to stagnation, however, as the commoners grow impoverished and their lords restless. Swords rust. Martial values decay. Foreign barbarians circle the island nation’s closed borders like vultures, growing ever more demanding.
Tōru, a shipwrecked young fisherman rescued by American traders and taken to America, defies the Shogun’s ban on returning to Japan, determined to save his homeland from foreign invasion. Can he rouse his countrymen in time? Or will the cruel Shogun carry out his vow to execute all who set foot in Japan after traveling abroad? Armed only with his will, a few books, dirigible plans and dangerous ideas, Tōru must transform the Emperor’s realm before the Black Ships come.
...
Readers who enjoy steampunk alternate histories more typically set in Victorian England or the American Wild West may enjoy this steampunk story made fresh by the Japanese samurai setting, as well as readers who enjoy historical fiction set in Japan.
(See title link for full description)


Review:
Tōru is a young fisherman from Japan who went was shipwrecked on a fishing trip with his father. Tōru was picked up by Americans and spent two years living with Americans who welcomed him and shared their love of freedom as well as their technology. He returns to Japan in 1852, to a country that forbids the return of anyone who has left the country, even if unwillingly. He hopes to sneak in but is caught and brought to the local Lord. The law says he must be delivered to the Shogun for immediate execution. But the brave, enthusiastic young man tries to convince everyone they must embrace the technology he has brought back so they can prepare to face the enemies that will come – whether British or American. He argues that Japan must prepare itself to prevent being overrun like China was.

The Lord lost his wife at their daughter’s birth and now his lovely young daughter, Masuyo, is an ‘inappropriately’ outspoken, free spirit (doted on by her father). Masuyo finds Tōru’s journal of notes and sketches and is immediately enthralled. She champions Tōru so that her father delays the execution first to allow the young man to return to his home village to see his mother. They proceed to an adjacent Lord’s home and soon the two aristocrats are quietly planning how to enlist others in a rebellion to bring Japan into the steam era.

There are secrets to Tōru’s situation which are a puzzle to everyone, especially Masuyo. He is joined by his childhood friend who is a ‘common’ blacksmith but an uncommon machinist. Soon he is joined by another friend, another Lord’s chief samurai. These friends make an awesome team designing, engineering and building the needed weapons and tools, including railroads and steam dirigibles. The rebellion grows as they find allies in surprising places.

I really enjoyed the intrigue, plot twists, steampunk elements and the political allegory (a country struggling and stagnating under dictated traditions and leaders who lack vision). Ms. Sorenson provides good detail contrasting the living circumstances of the poor, who struggle each day with little hope of ever improving their situation, against the wealthy estates of the Lords and the revered positions of the samurai who have their opportunities as a matter of birthright. Masuyo is a strong, brave and inventive female character who contributes to the visionary team to the point of risking her life and her family. There is tenderness, sorrow, humor, bravery, and danger wrapped up in the story which moves along at a quick pace.

 I was reminded a bit of The Last Samurai, probably because I had watched the movie recently. I liked that the author gives a bit of afterword explaining the political atmosphere and history of the setting. The chapter header quotes are apt to the plot as the author creatively delivers this story of patriotism, honor and love. I recommend this to readers who like alternate history and adventure as well as readers who enjoy steampunk and a young romance that seems impossible but finds a way.

I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Book Review: The Wrong Unit by Rob Dircks

This is a delightful sci fi dystopia – unique in my reading world!
The Wrong Unit: A Novel
by Rob Dircks
File Size: 726 KB
Print Length: 284 pages
Publisher: Goldfinch Publishing; 1 edition (July 2, 2016)
ASIN: B01HWQ1ONG
Genre: Dystopian, Post-Apocalyptic
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0


I DON’T KNOW WHAT THE HUMANS ARE SO CRANKY ABOUT. Their enclosures are large, they ingest over a thousand calories per day, and they’re allowed to mate. Plus, they have me.
An Autonomous Servile Unit, housed in a mobile/bipedal chassis. I do my job well: keep the humans healthy and happy.
“Hey you.”
Heyoo. That’s my name, I suppose. It’s easier for the humans to remember than 413s98-itr8. I guess I’ve gotten used to it.


Review:
Heyoo is the name of a standard robotic farmer helper unit in 'the sanctuary'. The humans often tease him and he got his name because they always call him “Hey You”. He is in for repair of a circular difficulty when a rebellion takes place. It is hard for the computers to understand why humans would want to rebel against The CORE – after all the computer system provides housing, food, work and control all aspects of the human lives so that they can always be happy.

The humans placed something in Heyoo's chest and sent him away in a transporter that he didn’t previously know existed. Before they launch him out he sees the human look at him and say "he's the Wrong Unit!" Heyoo soon discovers that the package he is carrying is a human infant that he quickly names “Wah”! He also has half of a map. Heyoo has no idea how to take care of a messy, hungry infant. But Heyoo has determination to prove he can do the job! He spends the next thirteen years journeying with the map and helping Wah grow as the sole free human in the world. Eventually they uncover other hidden humans and gather a team to advance the release of the humans from 'the sanctuary'.

This dystopian story is truly delightful! It is told in first person by Heyoo. It charmingly moves with his changes as a farmer, a wanderer and even a pirate unit. Over the years of their journey Heyoo discovers the joys of human freedom and the inexpressible enthusiasm of a growing child exploring the wide world with his “Dad” as his best – well only for a long time – friend. Their interaction is adorable and evokes all sorts of human emotions: fear, joy, pain, sorrow, and love. And of course, the story reveals the irony of a perfect utopia world that removes the freedom of choice from the humans. The ending brought tears to my eyes! This is fun and definitely worth reading. I want to read more by Mr. Dircks.

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge and was a selection for November Sci Fi – even though I didn’t get it posted then.

Saturday, December 3, 2016

Book Review: The Reader by M.K. Harkins

I enjoyed this paranormal suspense.
The Reader
by MK Harkins
File Size: 934 KB
Print Length: 260 pages
Publication Date: August 17, 2016
ASIN: B01IM9A6KY
Genre: Paranormal, YA
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


Hunted, shot, and without her memory, eighteen-year-old Ann Baker wakes in shallow water on a deserted Pacific Northwest island. She is soon approached by two young men claiming to be her friends. Something isn’t right, but when gunshots sound, Ann is left with little choice but to allow Devon and Archer to help her escape. Soon she finds herself in their North Bend mountain compound, where the higher evolved humans claim to be mind-readers. While Ann heals, she realizes they believe her to be one of the last and most powerful of all – The Lost One.
She’s welcomed by most with opened arms, but not everyone is happy about her arrival. A jealous adversary has plans for Ann, which spirals the entire Reader community into chaos.
As lies, murder, and betrayal threaten to rip apart the once harmonious mountain dwellers, Ann is thrust into making a decision that could save or devastate not only The Readers, but all of mankind. But there’s just one glitch: by doing so it may require her to make the ultimate sacrifice.


Review:
Ann wakes up on a beach in pain and under gunfire. Two gorgeous men sweep in to hustle her to safety. She has no memory of events or even her name but going with them seems better than being shot… again.

Devon and Archer are “Readers” who believe that Ann is ‘the Lost One’ who can save their race of Readers according to an old prophesy. They are saving her from the ‘enemy’ clan of Hijackers or “Jacks” who are also seeking her as the key element to power under the prophesy. Devon and Archer bring Ann to the Readers’ secret compound where she is helped by a kind doctor and welcomed by almost everyone. It soon is clear that Devon and Archer are attracted to Ann even as she is conflicted by her feelings.

Ann finds peace in the Reader community but also feels she must escape to discover who she really is and what happened to her parents. Her attempted escape has consequences that lead to the beginning of the war between the Readers and the Jacks. Ann discovers her parents are being held captive and she is betrayed by someone she trusted.

The story is told by Ann in first person and got my attention from the very beginning. I enjoyed the conflict of Ann’s emotions and feelings. I especially liked the twists that kept the danger and excitement moving until the end. Although this story has YA elements it has more plot and intrigue than YA angst – which I think is a good thing. The settings and emotions are portrayed with good realism and blend well with the paranormal element. I appreciated that the story was “clean” with no foul language or sexual descriptions beyond kissing. I found the story engaging and would look for more by this author.

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge and was part of my November Sci Fi reading.

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Book Review: Written in Fire (The Brilliance Trilogy Book 3) by Marcus Sakey

This is an exciting conclusion to a gripping dystopian trilogy.
Written in Fire (The Brilliance Trilogy Book 3)
by Marcus Sakey

File Size: 4823 KB
Print Length: 348 pages
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer (January 12, 2016)
ASIN: B00YUICLP0
Genre: Sci Fi, Thriller, Dystopian
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


For thirty years humanity struggled to cope with the brilliants, the one percent of people born with remarkable gifts. For thirty years we tried to avoid a devastating civil war. We failed.
The White House is a smoking ruin. Madison Square Garden is an internment camp. In Wyoming, an armed militia of thousands marches toward a final, apocalyptic battle.
Nick Cooper has spent his life fighting for his children and his country. Now, as the world staggers on the edge of ruin, he must risk everything he loves to face his oldest enemy—a brilliant terrorist so driven by his ideals that he will sacrifice humanity’s future to achieve them.
From “one of our best storytellers” (Michael Connelly) comes the blistering conclusion to the acclaimed series that is a “forget-to-pick-up-milk, forget-to-water-the-plants, forget-to-eat total immersion experience” (Gillian Flynn).
The explosive conclusion to the bestselling Brilliance Trilogy.


Review:
Nick Cooper loves his country. It doesn’t matter if people are normal or Brilliant, he is still fighting to save America for all of them. But the country is on the brink of civil war with the White House and top officials gone up in fire and tensions mounting throughout the country. Nick, Shannon and a few other friends, are racing to stop John Smith, the brilliant terrorist who has spent years planning his own destructive means of changing the world. But Smith, with his followers, seems to always be one move ahead on the dangerous chessboard of his devastating ambitions.

An army of frightened ex-military and preppers are gathering outside of the New Canaan Holdfast with the intent of attacking the Brilliant community. The Holdfast has special, secret and deadly defenses set up to protect against outside attack. But they couldn’t plan for all threats that they soon must face. How much are the sides willing to risk and sacrifice for their position? Is there any chance to deescalate the animosities and try to find a solution that would lead to peace?

Mr. Sakey gives a crisp, pulse pounding, hard-to-put-down conclusion to this gripping dystopian trilogy. He manages to weave social and moral commentary into the fast paced, tense action. The story clearly presents the question “Do you do whatever it takes to win or do you do the right thing?” Although I found the social moralities interesting to contemplate I wasn’t thrilled with Nick’s double standard on the home front as he ‘embraces’ his ex-wife in one scene and his new girlfriend in another. The author manages to resolve the personal issues along with the civil war crisis. Some of the circumstances are a bit contrived but it is still engaging. I recommend the trilogy for those who like exciting, politically-focused dystopian.

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley. This qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Book Review: Extracted (The Lost Imperials Series Book 1) by Sherry D. Ficklin and Tyler H. Jolley

This is a suspenseful and engaging time travel sci fi story with steampunk elements.

Extracted (The Lost Imperials Series Book 1)
by Sherry D. Ficklin and Tyler H. Jolley
File Size: 8963 KB
Print Length: 323 pages
Publisher: Clean Teen Publishing; 2 edition (August 15, 2016)
ASIN: B01H9CXU08
Genre: Sci Fi, Steampunk, Time Travel
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0


Two opposing factions of time travelers vie for control of the future in this thrilling steampunk series opener dubbed "Interesting" and "Unexpected" by Kirkus Reviews.
Lex and Ember—two time travelers with no memories of their lives before being recruited into the time war—are torn between the factions. When Lex accepts a mission that lands him deep within the heart of the Tesla Institute, he meets Ember, and the past that was stolen from them comes flooding back. Now armed with the truth of who they were, Lex and Ember must work together to save the future before the battle for time destroys them once again.
*This special edition contains expanded content and bonus material not found in the first release.


Review:
Ember and Ethan are time travelers with the Tesla Institute. Supposedly they have been trained to ‘protect’ the time line, particularly by stopping the opposition time travel group known as the Hollows. The Hollow travelers are made up of the cast offs from Tesla who have been patched up as best as possible, sometimes with brass or other non-human parts. Each side has different modes of travel although Tesla has more advanced tech. The leaders each claim that their group is protecting the true timeline.

Lex and Stein are two of the Hollow travelers. Stein is lost in a mission and Lex is intent on going back in time to save her. The only way he can do that is to steal some tech from Tesla’s base. Lex and friends sneak into the center of Tesla. All time travelers lose their memories with their first trip in the time stream. When Lex and Ember come face to face they recognize each other and their memories return revealing secrets and lies.

The story is told in the alternating views of Ember and Lex. This provides insight to other characters as well as showing the differences in the team’s methods and motives. I was a little confused on the sides at first but once I identified everyone it became easier to follow. There are numerous interesting secondary characters and there are also Tesla journal entries that add some backstory details. The author blends in an interesting historical mystery. This included a beautiful prayer that I never knew about.

The authors deftly use the steampunk elements to enhance the story. The writing is crisp and moves well. I appreciated the 'clean teen' aspect. I also liked the clothing and dwelling details. The story is engaging with lots of action, suspense and some young romance angst. Although this story has an appropriate ending, the author leaves a last chapter teaser for another installment. I enjoyed the story and recommend it to those who enjoy steampunk, time travel and action.

I received this title through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.



Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Book Review: The Steam Man of the Prairies by Edward S. Ellis

This is an interesting and fun vintage science fiction.
The Steam Man of the Prairies
by Edward S. Ellis


Paperback: 112 pages
Publisher: Dover Publications (July 20, 2016)
ISBN-13: 978-0486806136
Genre: Vintage Sci Fi, Steampunk
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0


One of the earliest examples of steampunk literature, this 1868 story was actually written during the Victorian era and was among the first American science-fiction novels. In fact, the tale features the very first literary instance of a mechanical man, published long before the term "robot" was coined. Extremely popular and much imitated in its day, The Steam Man of the Prairies recounts a teenage inventor's road test of his automaton, in which he conducts a party of gold prospectors across Indian territory.
This book marked the beginning of a genre that came to be known as edisonades — dime novels centered on a young genius and his invention that captivated boys of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Educator and author Edward S. Ellis wrote more than 100 such tales, under his own name and more than a dozen others. In addition to appealing to boys' fascination with engineering and technology, edisonades offered plenty of action and adventure in untamed parts of the world. As Kirkus Reviews noted, "Ellis' works serve as a good window into the attitudes of the time and provide some context for how the future was viewed as well as how much the world was changing."


Review:
Young Johnny Brainerd started being a tinker almost as a toddler. Once bored with standard inventions, he jumps upon his mother’s suggestion to create a mechanical man. He hides it in his garage until one day a strange looking man gets a glimpse. Tracker, frontiersman, Baldy Bicknell, is immediately fascinated by the steam man. He assures Johnny that they can test it out on the prairies where it can be very useful to help another project that he is involved with. Baldy is working with two rough miners seeking gold! But the men have been under constant threat from Indian attacks. Perhaps the appearance of a huge steam man could scare the Indians.

This story was written in 1868 which I think makes it remarkable fun. The steampunk elements are presented with good, reliable detail. The author uses rough accents to convey personalities to the characters. They are not deeply developed but there is enough portrayal to make them interesting and real to the time period. The story is creative and has action with the running steam man and dangerous confrontations with the Indians. The writing is not precise and could have benefited from a good editing. Still this is a quick, fun read. I recommend it to steampunk fans and to those interested in sci fi literature history.

I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley. This qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.


Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Book Review: The Captive Heart by Michelle Griep

This is a 'captivating' American Revolution romance with wonderfully strong characters.
The Captive Heart
by Michelle Griep

File Size: 1318 KB
Print Length: 320 pages
Publisher: Shiloh Run Press (October 1, 2016)
ASIN: B01DQ93D32
Genre: Historical, Christian
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0


Proper English governess Eleanor Morgan flees to the colonies to escape the wrath of a brute of an employer. When the Charles Town family she’s to work for never arrives to collect her from the dock, she is forced to settle for the only reputable choice remaining to her—marriage to a man she’s never met. Trapper and tracker Samuel Heath is a hardened survivor used to getting his own way by brain or by brawn, and he’s determined to find a mother for his young daughter. But finding a wife proves to be impossible. No upstanding woman wants to marry a murderer.


Review:
Eleanor is a proper English woman who had a difficult life with her father. She became a governess who had to reject the advances of her employers. Shevwas helped by her lecherous employer’s wife to escape to America. Unfortunately, the ship’s captain is corrupt and puts Eleanor with other women to be sold when they reach America. Along the way someone steals the money and reference letter that Eleanor was relying on for a new start. Instead Eleanor and two shipmate friends are carried off to a remote community in South Carolina where they each are placed in an 'indentured' situation. Before she can catch her breath, Eleanor is ushered into a marriage of convenience with a rustic man who needs a mother for his young daughter.

Samuel Heath is a multi-personality man. He is a frontiersman, trapper, tracker, friend of nearby Native Americans, a father of a toddler and once a proud British gentleman. Now he looks like a savage living in the wilderness and his loyalties no longer lie with Britain -- but that is a well-guarded secret. Samuel is haunted by memories of his first wife but now he needs a wife for his daughter, Grace. Even though a lovely young Native widow wants to be his mate, Samuel wants a woman who can raise Grace with proper ‘English ways’.

Eleanor and Samuel are an unlikely pair. She has no idea how to live a woodman’s rustic life. But Eleanor adores Grace, she is brave and willing to learn if only Samuel would stay home long enough to teach her. She soon discovers that he is the target of a bitter rival and he has secrets that he holds tight. But she also sees his warm love for his daughter and his steady provision and respect.

I was immediately pulled into this warm story first in England and then in the 1770 American frontier. Ms. Griep gives a vibrant portrayal of frontier living and pre-Revolution tensions. The characters are strong and well developed with a lovely passion that grows between strangers who show respect and care for each other. I enjoyed the faith foundations of both characters which is shown through their struggles and strengths.

This is a clean, American revolution historical romance, not to be confused with the sensual Regency romance genre. I highly recommend this captivating and delightful story. I will definitely look to read more by Ms. Griep.

I received this through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.



Thursday, August 18, 2016

Book Review: The Cat, The Collector and the Killer by Leann Sweeney

This is a purringly fun cozy.
The Cat, The Collector and the Killer
A Cats In Trouble Mystery
by Leann Sweeney 

File Size: 2509 KB
Print Length: 302 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0451477405
Publisher: NAL (August 2, 2016)
ASIN: B01839Q396
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


In the latest mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of The Cat, the Sneak and the Secret, a cat collector is suspected of murder.
Jillian Hart and police chief Tom Stewart are enjoying peaceful, newly wedded bliss in Mercy, South Carolina, until a woman is found wandering the streets one night. She's in her night clothes, disoriented, and carrying a kitten in a tote bag. A search of the woman’s house reveals many more cats, a maze of cardboard boxes—and a dead man.
Although the evidence suggests the frail woman is the killer, Jillian doesn’t believe she’s capable of such a crime. The dead man had many enemies in town, which means finding the real murderer may prove to be its own cat and mouse game...


Review:
Jillian is enjoying her newly married life with Tom. Tom is acting police chief in a small town. Jillian makes cat quilts and cares for her many cats plus the one that Tom brought to the house.

The local animal sanctuary owner, Shawn, calls early one morning asking for Tom’s help. Shawn had been called to come rescue some cats that had gotten out of a neighbor’s house. The cats belonged to Minnie, a widowed lady who collected cats (not a hoarder, though). Shawn was concerned that he couldn’t reach Minnie on the phone but he was afraid to go to her house alone. His reluctance was due to a restraining order obtained against Shawn by his nemesis, Chester, the county animal control officer.

Jillian offers to go with Shawn and they arrived to discover the cats outside and the house open. When they went in, looking for Minnie, they found a dead body instead. Not only that but the house, although clean and orderly, is jammed with boxes of purchased items. A confused Minnie is later found wandering downtown in her nightgown with a kitten in her bag.

Jillian is called in by the hospital to try to get Minnie to release the kitten. Jillian meets the lady psychologist who is trying to help Minnie who has become the prime suspect in the murder. Squabbling family members appear and the lady doctor is in a bad accident. Jillian is determined to prove Minnie’s innocence and to figure out the mystery of the boxes and her new friend’s accident, which wasn’t so accidental after all. Jillian needs to sort out the clues, while taking care of the cats, and keeping herself out of trouble if she can.

I found Jillian, Tom and the secondary characters to be lovely, natural people. The plot provides a couple of suspects and although the clues lead to a fairly clear conclusion there are some twists that are a good reveal late in the story. Of course I liked the cat elements and Jillian’s cat camera to check on her furry babies when she was out of the house for a long time.

The story reads easily and lives up to the genre of “cozy mystery”. This is apparently an eighth book in the series but read fine as a stand-alone. I liked it enough to want to get earlier books to enjoy when I want a light, quick cozy read. I do recommend this to readers who enjoy cozy mysteries… and cats!

I received this title through NetGalley for an honest review. It was a Promo/review reach out from Lori at Great Escapes Book Tours. This qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

Book Review: The Crêpes of Wrath, A Pancake House Mystery by Sarah Fox

This enjoyable 'cozy' has nice imagery, strong characters and an engaging plot.
The Crêpes of Wrath
A Pancake House Mystery
by Sarah Fox

File Size: 6124 KB
Print Length: 257 pages
Publisher: Alibi (August 16, 2016)
ASIN: B01A4ATX58
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


In the debut of a delightful cozy mystery series, Sarah Fox introduces a charming new heroine who finds herself in a sticky situation: stacking pancakes, pouring coffee, and investigating murder.
Bonus content: includes original recipes inspired by the Flip Side Pancake House menu!
When Marley McKinney’s aging cousin, Jimmy, is hospitalized with pneumonia, she agrees to help run his pancake house while he recovers. With its rustic interior and syrupy scent, the Flip Side Pancake House is just as she pictured it—and the surly chef is a wizard with crêpes. Marley expects to spend a leisurely week or two in Wildwood Cove, the quaint, coastal community where she used to spend her summers, but then Cousin Jimmy is found murdered, sprawled on the rocks beneath a nearby cliff.
After she stumbles across evidence of stolen goods in Jimmy’s workshop, Marley is determined to find out what’s really going on in the not-so-quiet town of Wildwood Cove. With help from her childhood crush and her adopted cat, Flapjack, Marley sinks her teeth into the investigation. But if she’s not careful, she’s going to get burned by a killer who’s only interested in serving up trouble.


Review:
Marley has taken a leave of absence to help her cousin Jimmy who is in the hospital with pneumonia. Marley is waitressing and managing Jimmy’s Flip Side Pancake House until Jimmy can get back on his feet. Instead, when Jimmy calls to say he is coming home, he is found murdered on the rocks at the bottom of the cliff near his home.

Marley has run into an old flame, Brett, a fellow she met when she summered on the island as a teen. He hasn’t forgotten her and she remembers him too. Marley discovers some stolen art works in Jimmy’s workshop. Now she is intent on proving that Jimmy wasn’t a thief and she may as well investigate his murder at the same time.

The police think Marley’s co-worker is the guilty party, but several other suspects are soon in Marley’s sights. The criminal activity picks up as someone breaks into the Flip Side office and then Jimmy’s office. When suspects start to disappear Marley focuses on another shady character. Can she determine the right crook before she becomes a victim?

This was an easy and fun read. I enjoyed Marley’s thought process as she reviewed clues. The author did a good job of laying out clues, providing multiple suspects while hiding the true villain. The gentle romance growing between Marley and Brett has a nice warm touch. The settings and imagery are nicely written and the story background is quite natural, life-like.

This was my first book by this author but I expect it won’t be my last. I do recommend this to readers of cozy mysteries or readers who don’t necessarily read this genre but might want an easy, light read.

I received this title through NetGalley for an honest review. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Book Review: Inquisitor by Mitchell Hogan

This is a fast paced, engaging sci fi.
Inquisitor
by Mitchell Hogan

File Size: 1567 KB
Print Length: 305 pages
Publication Date: June 12, 2015
ASIN: B00Z8XDKGK
Genre: Sci Fi, Space Thriller
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0


From the Aurealis Award-winning author of A Crucible of Souls.
Inquisitor Angel Xia, former mercenary turned detective, is used to being the hunter. But on another routine murder investigation the bodies begin to pile up, and Angel finds herself a target of sinister powers determined to conceal the truth.
The hunter has just become the hunted.
Betrayed by those she trusted most, and barely escaping assassination attempts, Angel receives a cryptic message from child begging for her help. Framed for horrific crimes, the only chance to clear her name is inextricably linked to a little girl - but the enemy is on her heels.
Running for her life, Angel races to forgotten places at the edges of known space that hold the darkest secrets of humanity…and the greatest threat to its future.
And all will be determined by what she chooses to do next. That is…if she can stay alive.


Review:
Angel is a prestigious Inquisitor, a space detective licensed to hunt down criminals. She is known for her excellent investigative skills and quick reflexes which keep her out of trouble… well not out of trouble but safe through it. She likes her newest partner, Viktor, and hopes he will make it, unlike prior partners. Angel and Viktor are pursing Genevolves who are humans who have been part of gene experiments and then discarded due to flaws. Though they may be flawed, they usually have extra skills or strengths and are formidable foes.

Angel isn’t happy when her boss pulls her off a death that she suspects is murder, not suicide. Her suspicions intensify when she and her partner seem to be targeted. Soon Angel questions who she can trust in her own ranks as she ducks assassins while being contacted by a young girl through a computer contact. Charlotte-Rose claims that only Angel can save her from the monster corporation who kidnapped her and holds her prisoner because of her incredible intellect. Angel knows she shouldn’t get pulled into this crazy rescue scheme, especially as it has the potential for getting too personal. But Angel remembers the orphans she was raised with and her heart and haunted past won’t let her abandon Charlotte.

Angel agrees to follow Charlotte’s crafted plan of escape. But they aren’t going to get away without hot pursuit. Angel is labeled as a rogue agent and she and Charlotte are running from the authorities as well as the powers that are trying to retrieve Charlotte. Angel begins to worry for her own reputation as well as for Charlotte’s intentions as she manipulates plans for her own purposes.

I enjoyed the intrigue and premise of the story. It jumps into action and, for the most part, doesn’t slow down. I was disappointed by some foul language and the other issue I had was the feeling that dangerous scenarios were repeating, one after another. This got to a point where I was ready for the story to move on to reveal what would happen next.

The story raises intriguing AI questions involving maturity, morality and the possibility of choices. There is an ending that leaves an opening for more adventures. I recommend this to readers who enjoy fast paced action and strong, smart female protagonists.

I received this title from NetGalley for an honest review. It is part of my NetGalley Challenge.

Tuesday, August 2, 2016

Book Review: The Bluebonnet Betrayal, A Potting Shed Mystery by Marty Wingate

This is an easy, delightful cozy mystery with gardening interests and lovely warmth – other than the death of course.
The Bluebonnet Betrayal, A Potting Shed Mystery
by Marty Wingate
File Size: 2129 KB
Print Length: 294 pages
Publisher: Alibi (August 2, 2016)
ASIN: B017QLSIU4
Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0


Bestselling author Marty Wingate “plants clever clues with a dash of romantic spice,” raves Mary Daheim. Now Wingate’s inimitable gardening heroine, Pru Parke, is importing a precious bloom from Texas—and she won’t let a vicious murder stop her.
Pru’s life in England is coming full circle. A Texas transplant, she’s married to the love of her life, thriving in the plum gardening position she shares with her long-lost brother, and prepping a Chelsea Flower Show exhibit featuring the beloved bluebonnets of the Texas hill country. Technically, Twyla Woodford, the president of a gardening club in the Lone Star State, is in charge of the London event, but Pru seems to be the one getting her hands dirty. When they finally do meet, Pru senses a kindred spirit—until Twyla turns up dead.
Although Twyla’s body was half buried under a wall in their display, Pru remains determined to mount a spectacular show. Twyla would have insisted. So Pru recruits her husband, former Detective Chief Inspector Christopher Pearse, to go undercover and do a bit of unofficial digging into Twyla’s final hours. If Pru has anything


Review:
Pru Parke is a ‘transplanted’ Texan living and gardening in England where she now lives with her new husband. Pru and her newly found brother are working to restore the gardens on a country estate. Pru has been asked by a Texan gardening ‘friend’, Twyla Woodford, to help set up a Texas exhibit for the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show in London.

Pru arrives at the exhibit site and begins to meet the various crew: an aloof ‘designer’, Roddy; a competent, if angry, crew boss, Chiv, and his jealous partner, Iris; a mostly absent, wealthy sponsor, Damien; and a young, enthusiastic researcher, Forde, who is convinced the sponsor will buy his special biofuel product. Pru picks up on some tension among these crew members even before she meets the Texas garden society ladies. Pru picks up five of the Texas ladies at the airport only to learn that their fearless leader, Twyla, has been delayed.

Twyla finally arrives and she and Pru hit it off right away. Twyla has some concerns that she has to resolve although she doesn’t fully explain the problems to Pru. This gives Pru fuel for the mystery when Twyla is discovered murdered the next morning. The Chief Inspector immediately warns Pru to keep her nose out of the investigation and to keep her husband, Chris, the former chief inspector who retired and now serves as consultant, out of the way too.

This of course won’t work for Pru who is determined to find Twyla’s killer while she also continues preparing for the exhibit. Pru drags Chris onto the crew to investigate under cover. As they make their inquiries, Pru learns that all four men, and several of the ladies, had relationships with Twyla that might provide a motive for the killing. Now they just have to narrow the field of suspects without getting in the line of fire.

Although there initially seemed to be quite a lot of characters and suspects, Ms. Wingate does a wonderful job of tying all the details together while hiding the true killer until an exciting confrontation at the end. The story brims with gardening background that I found interesting and I loved the gentle humor. Each chapter begins with a tidbit from the fictional ARGS (Austin Rock Garden Society) news or minutes. There is a sweet romantic vibe between Pru and Chris that adds to the story.

There is a rich warmth and easy style (yes, cozy) to the writing which makes this enjoyable entertainment. This is the second Potting Shed Mystery that I have read by Ms. Wingate and I highly recommend this author and series to readers who like cozy mysteries.

I received this title through NetGalley for an honest review. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Book Review: Machinations by Hayley Stone

This story jumps into motion and doesn’t slow down as it speeds along with intense action and emotion.
Machinations
by Hayley Stone

File Size: 1858 KB
Print Length: 343 pages
Publisher: Hydra (July 26, 2016)
ASIN: B018CHA0ZM
Genre: Sci Fi, Dystopian
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


Perfect for fans of Robopocalypse, this action-packed science-fiction debut introduces a chilling future and an unforgettable heroine with a powerful role to play in the battle for humanity’s survival.
The machines have risen, but not out of malice. They were simply following a command: to stop the endless wars that have plagued the world throughout history. Their solution was perfectly logical. To end the fighting, they decided to end the human race.
A potent symbol of the resistance, Rhona Long has served on the front lines of the conflict since the first Machinations began—until she is killed during a rescue mission gone wrong. Now Rhona awakens to find herself transported to a new body, complete with her DNA, her personality, even her memories. She is a clone . . . of herself.
Trapped in the shadow of the life she once knew, the reincarnated Rhona must find her place among old friends and newfound enemies—and quickly. For the machines are inching closer to exterminating humans for good. And only Rhona, whoever she is now, can save them.


Review:
The computers were given a command to stop the fighting around the world. Their solution was to eliminate the humans. Now Rhona Long has become the symbol of the resistance, even if she hadn’t planned it. As this story opens, Rhona suffers a fatal injury on the front lines and is dying in the arms of the man she loves, Camus.

Rhona awakens with her best friend, Samuel, who was the scientist she trusted with her secret orders – to clone her in the event of death! Samuel and a warrior of a man, Ulrich, have to pull Rhona out of stasis and escape the lab before the machines capture them and kill her…again. Ulrich stays behind to give Samuel and Rhona the chance to escape. They are rescued and returned to the main base where the council questions who Rhona is and whether she can be trusted.

Rhona slowly begins to remember her past but quickly remembers her feelings for Camus. Although he is willing to maintain the charade of their affection, he resents the Rhona clone and resists any true feelings towards her. After all, it has taken six months to bury his grief over Rhona’s death. This emotional upheaval has to take place in the background anyway as at least one person on base is openly hostile towards Rhona. The can protect Rhona from the known threat but the secret saboteur is a different story.

Meanwhile, a neighboring base calls on Rhona’s base for help as the Machines have discovered their location and are attacking. Camus goes on the rescue mission which quickly becomes a trap. Now only Rhona’s fast thinking and decisive action can save the man she loves, … not to mention the remaining humans.

I really enjoyed the non-stop, intense action and emotion in this story. The premise is very interesting and makes you wonder: could you, would you, love a clone of your loved one? I liked the well-developed characters, including nerdy Samuel, brusque Ulrich and sweet Hanna who lost her hearing during an attack and speaks primarily in sign language. I recommend this to readers who like end of the world as we know it scenarios with lots of action. I would like to read more by this author and in this series if it continues.

I received this from the publisher through NetGalley. The title released July 26, 2016. This qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Ultimate Courage (True Heroes) by Piper J. Drake

This is wonderful romantic (military) suspense with guard dog.
Ultimate Courage (True Heroes)
by Piper J. Drake
File Size: 895 KB
Print Length: 336 pages
Publisher: Forever (July 26, 2016)
ASIN: B017RQP1X0
Genre: Romantic Suspense, Military Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


LOVE IS AN ACT OF BRAVERY
Retired Navy SEAL Alex Rojas is putting his life back together, one piece at a time. Being a single dad to his young daughter and working at Hope's Crossing Kennels to help rehab a former guard dog, he struggles every day to control his PTSD. But when Elisa Hall shows up, on the run and way too cautious, she unleashes his every protective instinct.
Elisa's past never stays in her rearview mirror for long, and she refuses to put anyone else in danger. But with Alex guarding her so fiercely yet looking at her so tenderly, she's never felt safer . . . or more terrified that the secrets she keeps could put countless people in grave peril. The only way for both to fully escape their demons will take the ultimate act of courage: letting go and learning to trust each other.


Review:
Elisa is on the run from a possessive ex-fiance who views her as his possession. She was flattered by the attention from the wealthy man at first until she realized that she was no longer allowed a career or friends of her own. It took a while but she finally got up the courage to make a break for it. But it seemed that wherever she goes, it isn’t long before he locates her and makes it clear that he is expecting her return. Bad things could happen to anyone who might help her so Elisa remains on the run and tries to stay under his radar sources.

Elisa meets Alex and his spunky daughter at the emergency room. Elisa’s wrist is swollen while Serena, aka Boom, has a broken arm from an accident during martial arts training. Elisa appears at Hope's Crossing Kennels the next day to return a glove that Boom left behind. She shows up just in time to step in as a sorely needed secretary for the office. Alex recognizes that Elisa and is cautious and skittish; behaviors familiar from his own PTSD which he struggles to control. Although Alex doesn’t know Elisa, he is intrigued by the mixture of strength he sees beneath the docile postures. He is willing to step out to help her even as he gives her room to learn to trust him.

As Elisa and Alex grow closer they realize that each has secrets. Can they learn to trust each other and give their growing attraction a chance to deepen? Or will Elisa bolt again as soon as she knows her ex-boyfriend is on her tail?

I really liked these warm characters and was quickly pulled into the story. I also love the dog elements and found Souze, a German Shepherd Dog, to be a great addition. The continuing characters at the kennels provide good support and the addition of the owners of the martial arts academy, a gay couple, are a nice touch too for diversity.

The plot moves along at a good pace with sensual tension and the hint of danger that ultimately appears. This is the sort of romantic suspense/military romance that I really enjoy and I recommend the series and this author. This is the second book I have read in this series and I hope to read more.

I received this title from Hachette, Forever line, through NetGalley for an honest review. This adds to my NetGalley Challenge and "U" in Alphabet Challenge. 

THE TRUE HEROES SERIES
Extreme Honor, #1 -- My Review Link
Ultimate Courage, #2
Absolute Trust, #3

BUY THE BOOK HERE


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Piper J. Drake (or "PJ") spent her childhood pretending to study for the SATs by reading every interesting novel she could find at the library. After being introduced to the wonderful world of romance by her best friend, she dove into the genre.

PJ began her writing career as PJ Schnyder, writing sci-fi & paranormal romance and steampunk, for which she won the FF&P PRISM award as well as the NJRW Golden Leaf award and Parsec award.

PJ's romantic suspense novels incorporate her interests in mixed martial arts and the military. The True Heroes series is inspired by her experience rescuing, owning and training a variety of retired working dogs, including Kaiser, a former guard dog, and Mozart, who was trained to detect explosives.

FOLLOW FOREVER ONLINE
EXCERPT:
   You’ve got to be insane.”
   Elisa Hall took a prudent step—or two—back as she observed the standoff brewing in front of her. A tall man stood between her and the emergency room reception desk, glaring at the woman in scrubs behind it. He stood at an angle to Elisa, so he could see the reception desk to his right and the entirety of the waiting area in front of him.
   He clenched his fists.
   Elisa retreated farther back toward the entrance, releasing her throbbing rist and letting her hands fall to her sides. Harmless. Nothing to see here.
   “I’m sorry, sir, but ambulances take precedence over walk-ins,” the nurse repeated. She was braver than Elisa would’ve been in the face of rage on a level with the man’s at the counter.
   He was dressed in loose fitness shorts and a close-fitting black tee. His hands were wrapped in some cross between tape and fabric.
   “Fighter” might as well have been printed across his very broad, muscular shoulders.
   Actually, now that she was looking, his tee said Revolution Mixed Martial Arts Academy.
   Well, then. Maybe she should just take more ibuprofen and forget about seeing a doctor for her swollen wrist after all. Getting her injury examined wasn’t worth staying anywhere near this guy.
   The nurse glanced quickly at Elisa then returned her attention to the man, her expression softening with sympathy. “As soon as an examination room opens up, we’ll get you in to see the doctor. Please, wait right here and fill out these forms while I help this young lady.”
   Wait, what? The man’s face, and his focus, turned toward her. Oh, great.
   Usually she envied nurses their ability to sympathize with so many patients and make such a difference in their lives. Now was not one of those times.
   Elisa squashed the urge to bolt. Never ended well when she tried it. Better to hold very still, wait until the anger in front of her burned itself out, and pull herself together afterward.
   Instead, she fastened her gaze on the floor and tried to keep her body from tensing visibly. Silently, she sang herself an inane nursery rhyme to take her mind
off the weight of the man’s intense glare. Please, please, let him walk away. They were in public, and even though the emergency room waiting area wasn’t packed, it still had a dozen people scattered around the seats.
   But the expected explosion, shouting, other things . . .never happened. Instead, the man had quieted. All of the frustrated aggression seemed to have been stuffed away, somewhere.
   She swallowed hard. Relief eased her constricted throat, and she breathed slowly for the time being. Leaving remained the best idea she had at the moment.
   But he stepped away from the counter and farther to her right, motioning with a wrapped hand for her to step forward. As she forced her feet to take herself closer to the reception desk—and past him—he gave her room.
   Belatedly, she realized his movement also happened to block her escape route toward the doors. He couldn’t have done it on purpose, could he? But Elisa took a step up to the reception counter and away from him anyway.
   “Yes, dear?” The nurse’s gentle prompt made Elisa jump.
   Damn it. Elisa’s heart beat loud in her ears.
   The nurse gave her an encouraging smile. “Don’t mind him. He’s been here before. I’ve already asked another nurse to bring ice packs as fast as possible. I don’t
mind if he blows off some hot air in my direction in the meantime. I would be upset, too, considering today’s situation.”
   Elisa bit her lip. She could still feel the man standing behind her, his presence looming at her back. He couldn’t possibly appreciate the nurse sharing some of his private information. And he didn’t seem to need ice packs or any other medical attention. He appeared very able-bodied. “It’s none of my business.”
   The nurse placed a clipboard on the counter and wrinkled her nose. “Oh, trust me, the entire waiting room knows what his concern is. Tell me what brought you here.”
   This might be the most personable emergency room reception area Elisa had been to in years, not counting the extremely angry man standing behind her. They were either not very busy—not likely if all the examination rooms were full up—or extremely efficient.
   Efficiency meant she could get in and out and decide what her next steps would be.
   “My wrist.” Elisa held out her left arm, her wrist obviously swollen. “I thought it was just a bad sprain, but it’s been more than a few days and has only gotten worse. I can barely move it now.”
   And if she could have avoided it, she definitely wouldn’t have stopped in to get it treated. An emergency room visit, even with the help of her soon-to-be nonexistent insurance, was still an expense she didn’t need. It’d been six months or so since her last significant paycheck, and she could not afford to extend her insurance much longer. Plus, it might be better not to. One less way to track her.
   “Is that your dominant arm, dear?” The nurse held up a pen.
   Elisa shook her head.
   “Oh, good. Leave your ID and insurance card with me so I can make copies. Take a seat over there to fill out this form and bring it back to me.”
   Okay, then. Elisa took the items and made her way toward the seating area, thankful the nurse hadn’t asked her to give her name and pertinent information verbally. It was always a risk to share those things out loud.
   She’d learned over and over again. There was a chance a slip of information in the unlikeliest of places would find its way to exactly the person she didn’t want
to have it. No matter how careful she’d been over the last several months, it hadn’t been enough yet.
   But it would be. This time. She was learning, and she was free. Every day was a new chance.
   Nodding to herself, Elisa looked for a seat. It might not be crowded, but just about everyone in the room had decided to sit with at least a chair or two buffer between them and the next person. The buffer seats were all that were left, and most of the other people waiting to be seen were either men, or women sitting with men.
   Then she caught sight of a young girl sitting with her legs crossed in the seat next to the big planter in the corner. Slender, but long limbed, the girl had a sweet face and the gangly look of a growing kid. Elisa guessed the girl was maybe eight or nine, could even be ten. Hard to pin down age when the kid had such an innocent look to her. The seat next to her was open, and she was waiting quietly, hugging a big, blue, plush . . . round thing. Whatever it was.
   Elisa walked quickly over, and when the girl looked up at her with big, blue eyes, Elisa gave her the friendliest smile she could dig up. “Mind if I sit next
to you?”
   The girl looked around, her gaze lingering on the reception area behind Elisa for a moment before saying, “Sure.”
   Elisa took a seat.
   After a few silent moments, the little girl stirred next to her. “Are you sick?”
   Well, paperwork didn’t take much of her attention, and it’d been a while since Elisa had been outside of her own head in a lot of ways. Conversation would be a welcome change and a good distraction from the constant worry running in the back of her mind. “Not sick so much as hurt. I won’t give you the plague.”
   A soft, strained laugh. “Same here.”
   Elisa took a harder look at the big, plush toy. It wasn’t for comfort as Elisa’d first assumed. It was supporting the girl’s slender left arm, which was bent at an impossible angle.
   “Oh my god.” Why was she sitting here alone?
   “Don’t worry.” The girl gave her a quick thumbs-up with her right hand. “The doctors are really good here, and I’m in all the time.”
   Such a brave face. She had to be in an insane amount of pain. And here she was encouraging Elisa.
   “Is there someone you should talk to about how often you get hurt?” Elisa struggled for the right tone. It was one she’d heard more than once when people had been concerned for her. Some places had safeguards in place for . . .
   Blue eyes widened. “Oh, it’s not what you’re thinking. Trust me, people ask my dad. And it’s not like that at all. I study mixed martial arts. I get bruised and
bumped all the time, and usually it’s nothing, but Dad always makes me come in to get checked.”
   It was hard not to believe in the earnest tone. But monsters were everywhere.
   The girl gave her a rueful smile, still amazing considering how much pain she had to be in. “This time it wasn’t just a bump.”
   “Which is why they’re going to see you as soon as they can, Boom.”
   Elisa hadn’t heard the man approach. He was just there. He kneeled down in front of the girl then gently tucked an ice pack around her arm while moving it as little as possible. For her part, the girl hissed in pain but otherwise held up with amazing fortitude.
   Elisa would’ve been in tears. The forearm had to be broken. Both bones. It didn’t take a doctor to figure that out. No wonder the man had been mad earlier. She’d want this girl to be seen as soon as possible, too. She dropped her gaze, unable to watch.
   “Here.” An ice pack appeared in her view. “Your wrist should be iced, too. Take down the swelling while you wait.”
   Speechless, Elisa looked up.
   The man’s words were gruff, awkward. His expression was blank. But his eyes—a softness around his eyes—and a . . . quiet in the way he watched her made her swallow and relax a fraction. Her heartbeat stuttered in a fluttery kind of way. A completely different reaction from what she should be experiencing if she were wise. She didn’t know this man and he was probably married. The girl had a mother somewhere. Where? Maybe on her way. This man was just being nice. Maybe.
   Learn from your mistakes. You never know who a person really is.

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