Book Review: A License to Wed: Rebellious Brides by Diana Quincy

This is an enjoyable, character driven, sexy, second chance historical romance.

A License to Wed: Rebellious Brides
by Diana Quincy

• File Size: 4809 KB
• Print Length: 226 pages
• Publisher: Loveswept (July 5, 2016)
• Sold by: Random House LLC
• ASIN: B016GRO8T4
Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Perfect for readers of Madeline Hunter, Lisa Kleypas, and Sabrina Jeffries, the Rebellious Brides series continues with a sizzling tale of forbidden love between a socialite and a scholar—who might just be an infamous spy.
Lady Elinor Dunsmore made the mistake of falling for her older brother’s best friend, who vanished after a night of unbridled passion. Six years and a lifetime later, their eyes meet across a Paris salon. Her friends and family believe she’s dead, but Elle is very much alive. She’s now associated with a ruthless general, who wants her to seduce the man who broke her heart in order to learn his deepest secrets. Is Will a mild-mannered scholar—or the notorious agent they call The Razor?
The bastard son of an earl and an actress, Will Naismith always knew he was an unsuitable match for Elle Dunsmore, no matter how powerfully he ached for her. And yet he almost allowed his desires to spoil her glittering future. After the agony caused by Elle’s supposed death, Will has devoted himself to the Crown, but his entire life has been leading up to this unexpected reunion. As much as he still wants her, though, he must not succumb to lust once again. For his mission is delicate—and Elle is delectably dangerous.
Includes a special message from the editor, as well as an excerpt from another Loveswept title.

Review:
Lady Elinor was only a young girl when she determined that she would marry her older brother’s best friend, Will. During the celebration of her eighteenth birthday, Elle manages to break Will’s defenses down. After their joint passion he offers to marry her but she refuses as it sounds like he is offering out of duty.

Will is enthralled with Elle but he has stayed away from her as he knows she is a lady of station who deserves better than a nobelman’s bastard son. When Elle refuses his offer, he takes off to town and then gets called away for a work related task. When he returns a few months later, Elle has married a wealthy French aristocrat.

Six years later they meet unexpectedly in Paris. Will thought Elle was dead and she is shocked to see him in Paris. They each felt abandoned or rejected from their earlier encounter. They are both hiding secrets and begin a reluctant relationship filled with distrust and misunderstandings. They actually work at cross-purposes because they don’t confide in each other although there are glimpses of hope from each that keeps the relationship moving forward.

I do not know enough to know if the description of Parisian fashions in the time period are accurate but they are described as quite risqué. These details are part of the sensual leaning that runs through the book. This is a character driven story and I enjoyed the secrets, tension and danger in the storyline. There is a strong emphasis on the attraction between the main characters and there are several sexual encounters. The later scenes are fairly explicit but not in an unpleasant way. At least the reader knows they really care for each other even if the characters haven’t discovered that yet.

This is a new author for me. The writing flows well and this is easily read as a standalone. I enjoy historical romances and liked the second chance theme of this tale. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy sexy romance.

This title released on 7/5/16. I received this from the publisher through NetGalley for an honest review. This qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Book Review: Kiss of Midnight: A Midnight Breed Novel (The Midnight BreedSeries Book 1) by Lara Adrian

This has crisp writing, compelling characters and a good plot with intrigue and danger. There is just a bit too much sex for my tastes.
Kiss of Midnight: A Midnight Breed Novel (The Midnight Breed Series Book 1)
by Lara Adrian

File Size: 969 KB
Print Length: 434 pages
Publisher: Dell (May 1, 2007)
Sold by: Random House LLC
ASIN: B000QCQ8XK
Genre:Paranormal Romance, Vampires
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

He watches her from across the crowded dance club, a sensual black-haired stranger who stirs Gabrielle Maxwell's deepest fantasies. But nothing about this night--or this man--is what it seems. For when Gabrielle witnesses a murder outside the club, reality shifts into something dark and deadly. In that shattering instant she is thrust into a realm she never knew existed--a realm where vampires stalk the shadows and a blood war is set to ignite.
Lucan Thorne despises the violence carried out by his lawless brethren. A vampire himself, Lucan is a Breed warrior, sworn to protect his kind--and the unwitting humans existing alongside them--from the mounting threat of the Rogues. Lucan cannot risk binding himself to a mortal woman, but when Gabrielle is targeted by his enemies, he has no choice but to bring her into the dark underworld he commands.
Here, in the arms of the Breed's formidable leader, Gabrielle will confront an extraordinary destiny of danger, seduction, and the darkest pleasures of all. . . .

Review:
Gabrielle is a photographer who is drawn to the lonely, abandoned and shadowy images of buildings and other aspects of life. One night she reluctantly goes to a club with friends where she shares glances across the room with a dark, brooding man. As she leaves the club she witnesses a savage murder. She manages to get a few pictures on her cell phone as she flees the alley. The police only mock her when they find no evidence of the gruesome scene. But someone heard her and believed her and now she is a target of those dark forces.

Lucas Thorne is a man of darkness and violence himself. But unlike the Rogue killers of his kind he is a Breed Warrior – one of a few specially chosen vampires who are committed to protecting their race by keeping the evil element under control and hidden from public exposure. A few of his closest brethren have Breed mates, the specially marked human females who become bonded with their vampire mate and produce children. Lucas has never been interested in finding a mate as his duties as a warrior protector has been his driving force for hundreds of years.

Lucas saw Gabrielle escape from the Rogues he was hunting. He needs the images on her phone and he suspects the Rogues will come after her too. He is drawn to her sensual beauty and then is alarmed to discover secrets even she is unaware of. Now there are multiple reasons to protect her and bring her to his compound even though he is facing a Rogue uprising and her nearness causes him confusion that brings him near the edge of his own control.

Gabrielle and Lucas are both conflicted characters and I found their struggle and story compelling. They sense they shouldn’t be drawn to each other but the pull is irresistible. I loved the background story with danger, action, tension and the intrigue of betrayal. There are some different vampire aspects that added interest. However, I was a little wary of this title as I suspected it might be pretty graphic sexually. My suspicions were right as it is full of sexual scenes that were just a bit too many and too erotic for my tastes. The writing is crisp and fast moving and if it wasn't so edgy I might have continued with the series. Those paranormal romance readers who enjoy fast-paced tension and a steamy, sexual ride should enjoy this book and the series.

This is from my free Kindle Library as a free book downloaded in 2009. It is part of my 2015 TBR Pile Challenge list and "K" for the Alphabet Soup Challenge.

I owe a copy of this ebook or a $5.00 GC to LILLY based on my Giveaway back in December 2014. Sorry it took so long for me to get around to reading this one! I had to laugh at myself when I went back and found the giveaway post. I don't think I even got beyond posting that first group of 23 books although I plenty more to go! I may host a few more "help me pick" giveaways over the next three months as I prepare title for next year's TBR pile list.

Book Review: The Red Book of Primrose House by Marty Wingate

This is a thoroughly warm and engaging cozy mystery.
The Red Book of Primrose House
by Marty Wingate

• File Size: 1890 KB
• Print Length: 273 pages
• Publisher: Alibi (November 4, 2014)
• Sold by: Random House LLC
• ASIN: B00KAFXBHE

Genre: Cozy Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: November 4, 2014
In Marty Wingate’s charming new Potting Shed Mystery, Texas transplant Pru Parke’s restoration of a historic landscape in England is uprooted by an ax murderer.

Pru Parke has her dream job: head gardener at an eighteenth-century manor house in Sussex. The landscape for Primrose House was laid out in 1806 by renowned designer Humphry Repton in one of his meticulously illustrated Red Books, and the new owners want Pru to restore the estate to its former glory—quickly, as they’re planning to showcase it in less than a year at a summer party.

But life gets in the way of the best laid plans: When not being happily distracted by the romantic attentions of the handsome Inspector Christopher Pearse, Pru is digging into the mystery of her own British roots. Still, she manages to make considerable progress on the vast grounds—until vandals wreak havoc on each of her projects. Then, to her horror, one of her workers is found murdered among the yews. The police have a suspect, but Pru is certain they’re wrong. Once again, Pru finds herself entangled in a thicket of evil intentions—and her, without a hatchet.

Review:
Pru Parke has landed a great job as head gardener to restore the garden at historic Primrose House in Sussex. An extra special bonus is that they have discovered the valuable “Red Book” of the historic landscape artist who detailed and sketched the garden plans for the manor house. Pru is excited about the impressive restoration opportunity even if it means that she is separated from her new “fellow”, London Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Christopher Pearse. Pru will also have the chance to meet other Parkes as she has a lead in her desperate search for connections to her mother’s English family.

Pru has to work with a mixed crew which consist of two brothers who provide brawn, a special, handicapped young man who provides gentleness and holes, and a difficult old gardener who begrudgingly provides history. Pru also has to resist the suggestions of her employer who sends in changing ideas by email or notes every few weeks and wants to host a grand open house in seven months. Things are going on fairly well until accidents happen and it appears there is sabotage in the garden. Then one of the staff is found murdered. The local Detective Sargeant (DS) is a nice officer and a friend of Christopher. However the local DCI is loud and rough and doesn’t want Christopher sticking his nose into his case.

Christopher was glad when Pru did not return to Texas after they met over another murder case. (See The Garden Plot.) He drives up for weekends to visit and is anxious to keep her safe, especially now that troubles are increasing. He suspects that Pru will have a hard time staying impartial in the investigation as she will want to protect her friends/staff and make inquires on her own.

I totally enjoyed the gardening details and life issues that were shared until the mystery began. There were several side interests that kept the book moving along well, including the mature romance between Pru and Christopher with their warm, and often lightly humorous, dialogue. The primary and secondary characters are well developed with distinct traits that add depth to the story. There are clues threaded in different encounters that help Pru (and the observant reader) to figure out the murderer, but will it be in time?

The length was good to make this an easy, fast read. This is a fine cozy mystery and I will soon return to Ms. Wingate to read The Garden Plot (Potting Shed Mystery Book 1) which I happen to have in my Kindle Library. I highly recommend this to fans of cozy mystery and to those who enjoy working in a garden!

I received this book from Random House through NetGalley.

Book Review: The Night Visitor by Dianne Emley

This is a strong mystery with good twists.
The Night Visitor
by Dianne Emley

• File Size: 1340 KB
• Print Length: 272 pages
• Publisher: Alibi (September 16, 2014)
• Sold by: Random House LLC
• ASIN: B00IWTTPMK

Genre: Mystery, Paranormal Thriller
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 16, 2014
In bestselling author Dianne Emley’s chilling new paranormal thriller, a beautiful woman’s romantic past comes back to haunt her in the form of an otherworldly visitor seeking justice.
Gorgeous and successful, Rory Langtry seemed to have it all. Daughter of a movie star and sister of a supermodel, Rory was engaged to sexy artist, Junior Lara. But her bright future went dark one terrible, bloody night that left her sister dead and the accused murderer—Junior—in an extended coma.
Now, five years later, Rory appears to have put the past behind her. She has a wonderful new fiancé and heads a successful cosmetics company. Yet dark secrets threaten. Across town, Junior lies close to death but before he departs he seeks to clear his name.
It starts with a feeling. It turns into a vision. Soon Rory is having sensations that only Junior could experience—from the horrifying to the erotic. Then she learns details about the awful night that only Junior could know, newfound knowledge with potentially fatal consequences. When another act of violence rocks her family, Rory plunges deeper into the unsolved mystery, led by an inexplicable visitor to a dangerous time and place where all will be revealed at last. But until then, Junior will not let her go.

Review:
Junior was an extraordinary artist and was happily looking forward to his life with his beautiful fiance, Rory. Rory is a beauty in her own right but she feels overshadowed by her movie star mother and supermodel sister, Anya. Junior did a gorgeous painting of Rory and Anya insisted that he paint her too. Junior was reluctant but Rory encouraged him to do it for the exorbitant fee Anya agreed to pay. But the night the painting was finished Anya and Junior are found lying in a pool of blood. Anya is dead, her painting is slashed, another unknown painting is missing, and Junior is severely injured.

Junior spends the next five years diminishing in a coma. His brother, Daniel, develops a strange affinity as he cares for Junior. Junior’s family is bitter and angry not only at Junior’s suffering but because Junior was accused of murdering Anya before attempting suicide.

Rory is devastated by the death of her sister and the rumors that swell around the alleged murder/suicide tragedy. She begins a foundation to help “the other victims,” TOV. Rory is engaged to a new love and preparing for a special foundation fund-raising. But Rory experiences some strange dizziness and visions.

The primary detective thought there were holes in the conclusion that Junior was the killer but the victim’s wealthy family put pressure on closing the case quickly. When Daniel tries to assassinate Rory during her speech the murder investigation is brought alive again and the detective begins to uncover some very strange events.

This story drives a strong punch. It is upfront and crass in some ways. At first I wasn’t sure if I liked the characters and I didn’t like some of the ugly language. However, as the story progressed, I became more engrossed in the mystery, the eeriness and the twists. Bit by bit the author reveals details and family secrets through emotional memories. I actually had another culprit in mind for most of the book so I enjoyed the surprise when the facts were disclosed. Ms. Emley does a great job combining the mystery and paranormal elements in this taunt thriller. I recommend this to readers who don’t mind a bit of paranormal in a strong mystery with good twists.

I received this thriller through NetGalley.

Book Review: Half a King by Joe Abercrombie

This is a engaging, fast paced fantasy with good twists.
Half a King
by Joe Abercrombie

• File Size: 1770 KB
• Print Length: 354 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0804178321
• Publisher: Del Rey (July 15, 2014)
• Sold by: Random House LLC
• ASIN: B00HBQWGYO

Genre: Fantasy Adventure
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: July 15, 2014
“A fast-paced tale of betrayal and revenge that grabbed me from page 1 and refused to let go.”—George R. R. Martin
“I swore an oath to avenge the death of my father. I may be half a man, but I swore a whole oath.”

Prince Yarvi has vowed to regain a throne he never wanted. But first he must survive cruelty, chains, and the bitter waters of the Shattered Sea. And he must do it all with only one good hand.

The deceived will become the deceiver.
Born a weakling in the eyes of his father, Yarvi is alone in a world where a strong arm and a cold heart rule. He cannot grip a shield or swing an axe, so he must sharpen his mind to a deadly edge.

The betrayed will become the betrayer.
Gathering a strange fellowship of the outcast and the lost, he finds they can do more to help him become the man he needs to be than any court of nobles could.

Will the usurped become the usurper?
But even with loyal friends at his side, Yarvi finds that his path may end as it began—in twists, and traps, and tragedy.

Review:
Prince Yarvi is a younger son and not expected to become the King. He was born with a deformity and has always been a disappointment to his father, brother and those who value the warrior brawn over brain. Only his mother, his uncle and his tutor, Mother Gundring have shown love and encouragement. Yarvi has trained to become a minister but right before he is to test as a noble scholar his father and brother are ambushed. Yarvi is troubled to become King (or half a King as many consider him) but, with the encouragement of his Uncle, he accepts. As one of his first acts he vows vengeance on those who murdered his father.

Yarvi and a small army go to face the alleged enemy. Although they didn’t find the leader of the clan, his men slaughtered many innocent villagers. As they were returning to their ship to go home Prince Yarvi meets betrayal and is left for dead in the carnage. Unexpectedly he lives and falls into the hands of his enemy. He can’t tell them who he truly is so he claims to be a ship’s cook and he is sold to a slaver.

Yarvi ends up as an oarsman with other slaves. His companions help him to learn to do one stroke at a time. Yarvi struggles to row, managing to grow muscles and strength as he plots escape and reclaiming his throne.

Yarvi’s learning comes in handy and he gains a promotion to supply officer. He manages better than his predecessor and provides better food and conditions for the other slaves who appreciate his efforts. Eventually Yarvi and some of his friends escape. Of course they face more hardships as they try to stay ahead of the ship’s Captain who pursues. Yarvi finally reveals his identity and a group of his friends agree to help him sneak into the castle to capture the false king. Clues picked up along the way reveal how extended the betrayal was and, before the band faces the impostor king, there are more secrets and twists to surprise everyone and to challenge Yarvi once again.

Yarvi is not the usual handsome, strong hero. Instead he is a deformed, weak, scholarly nerd who is scorned in his society of warriors. But Yarvi is shrewd and remembers the wisdom shared by his teacher. His friends are a wonderful mix of characters who have suffered through hardships and share different talents for the obstacles they face. I enjoyed the characters, the fast paced adventure and was pleased with the twists at the end. I recommend this to those who enjoy engaging fantasy.

I received this from Del Rey through NetGalley.

Book Review: The Escape (Survivor's Club) by Mary Balogh

This is a delightful historical romance with wonderful characters.

The Escape (Survivor's Club)
by Mary Balogh

• Print Length: 416 pages
• Publisher: Dell (July 1, 2014)
• Sold by: Random House LLC
• ASIN: B00HP3POEC

Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: July 1, 2014
In this poignant novel of longing and salvation, a hopeful widow and a resilient war hero discover the promise of love’s magic and new beginnings.
After surviving the Napoleonic Wars, Sir Benedict Harper is struggling to move on, his body and spirit in need of a healing touch. Never does Ben imagine that hope will come in the form of a beautiful woman who has seen her own share of suffering. After the lingering death of her husband, Samantha McKay is at the mercy of her oppressive in-laws—until she plots an escape to distant Wales to claim a house she has inherited. Being a gentleman, Ben insists that he escort her on the fateful journey.
Ben wants Samantha as much as she wants him, but he is cautious. What can a wounded soul offer any woman? Samantha is ready to go where fate takes her, to leave behind polite society and even propriety in her desire for this handsome, honorable soldier. But dare she offer her bruised heart as well as her body? The answers to both their questions may be found in an unlikely place: in each other’s arms.

Review:
Samantha is a young widow who has spent most of her marriage nursing her injured, unfaithful husband. She feels suffocated by her in-laws and their strict propriety. She longs for freedom, or even just a walk in the meadow to get fresh air.

Sir Benedict Harper was a career officer, a respected major in the Napoleonic Wars, until he almost lost his legs. The doctors said he would never walk again. Ben has struggled through rehabilitation with the help and encouragement of six other friends, all members of the Survivor’s Club.

Ben is out riding when he almost jumps on a young woman dressed in severe black with an ugly hound dog. He learns from his sister that the mourning lady is Samantha. Ben and Samantha begin a slow friendship which is encouraged by Ben’s sister but shocking to Samantha’s sister-in-law, Matilda. Matilda storms home and a few days later servants of the Earl, Samantha’s father-in-law, arrive to announce they will take Samantha back to live with the Earl in his strict household. Samantha is faced with returning to a dismal life, caged by her in-laws, or traveling alone to claim the small, perhaps dilapidated, cottage in Wales which she has inherited from her mother’s estranged aunt.

Ben insists on escorting Samantha on the trip to Wales and their friendship and companionship grows. They are reluctant to part ways when they arrive. But Samantha has inherited more than she expected and Ben needs to find a new meaning for his life since he can no longer be an officer.

Ms. Balogh has the wonderful ability to draw me into the lives of her characters and to weave a totally believable love story. These are wonderful, warm characters of strength and integrity. I loved the gentle growth of their attraction. I also enjoyed the independent philosophies that spurred them to seek more from life. The story is rich in detail and sweet, emotional moments of sorrow and joy. I found this story charming and delightful.

If you like historical romance and haven’t read Ms. Balogh you are missing a real treat. I recommend this story and highly recommend this author.

I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley.

Book Review: A Most Devilish Rogue by Ashlyn Macnamara

This is a warm story, rich in romance.
A Most Devilish Rogue
by Ashlyn Macnamara

• File Size: 1099 KB
• Print Length: 352 pages
• Publisher: Ballantine Books (August 27, 2013)
• Sold by: Random House LLC
• ASIN: B00BO4GSVG

Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: August 27, 2013
Fans who adore Julia Quinn, Eloisa James, and Sabrina Jeffries will savor Ashlyn Macnamara’s sensual new novel, which proves that two hearts are better than one.
Years ago, when Isabelle Mears was still a young miss too infatuated to know better, she surrendered her innocence to a dishonorable man. Though ruined and cast out from society, she has worked hard to shelter her illegitimate son, Jack. Having sworn off men in her quiet but dignified life, Isabelle is unprepared for the deep longing that rips through her when a handsome stranger rescues her rambunctious six-year-old from the pounding ocean surf.
George Upperton is a man in trouble with debts, women, and a meddling family. He is, by all accounts, the last gentleman on earth Isabelle should be drawn to. But loneliness is a hard mistress, and caution gives way to desire . . . even though Isabelle is convinced that happiness can’t be found in the arms of such a devilish rogue. Only when Jack is kidnapped does Isabelle discover the true depth of George’s devotion—and how far a good man will go to fight for the woman whose love is all that matters.

Review:
George Upperton appears at first to be a rather offensive aristocratic man who has built up debt through gambling and supporting a mistress with costly tastes. When his mistress announces bad news – she is pregnant – George escapes town to join his family at a country party of a good friend.  He hopes to find some friendly card games where he can win enough to bring his debts current, complete plans for a revenge he is seeking for a friend and make provisions for his ladybird. Meanwhile he has to dodge his mother who is pushing him towards a suitable marriage.

George strolls down to the beach just in time to rescue a young boy. Jack, a precocious lad of six, clings to George and decides that the waves and George are fun. Jack’s mother, Isabelle, is understandably distressed. She is grateful but wary considering her past experience with a man of ton who took advantage of her innocence leaving her pregnant, ruined and outcast by her family.

George and Isabelle are drawn to each other even though he doesn’t need complications in his life and she doesn’t need to be used or scorned by anyone new. She gets enough disdain even from the locals who look down their noses because of her circumstances.

When Isabelle gets a threatening note about Jack she ends up seeking George’s help to find the boy. Then Isabelle’s house servant/companion, Biggles, disappears the next day. George enlists the help of his male friends to try to find her son. At first Isabelle is welcomed into the manor house until her own haughty cousin steps in the room and proclaims her shame.

Most of the town see George as he describes himself: “A simple man who plays too deep, drinks too much, and enjoys too many ladies outside the bonds of marriage.” (Location 3299.)  But Isabelle sees beyond the shallow facade to the man of sensitivity, gentleness and kindness.

I didn’t like George at first but as his sensitive nature was revealed he became much more likeable. I did like Isabelle, especially for her strength in the face of being outcast to raise her son with little help. I liked the rich warmth of the story and the kidnapping plot. However I was a little disappointed that the kidnapping occurs and then the majority of the book proceeds to share the developing romance and passion between George and Isabelle. It seemed quite a long time before the hunt for Jack and Biggles led anywhere.

I had issues with playing the piano at midnight and not disturbing anyone in the manor. Also I felt like there were unanswered questions with Isabelle’s relationship with her father. Even with these issues I did enjoy the book. I would only wish for less focus on the sensual romance and more on the substantive plot. But for readers who love a sensual romance - this should fill that craving very nicely.

I received this for an honest review for Random House and the author as part of a Blog Tour. Please see Author Guest Post and Giveaway for more about the book and a chance to win.

Audible Book Review: White Picket Fences by Susan Meissner, with Print Giveaway

This is a family drama with intrigue and historical touches from the Holocaust as added interest.
White Picket Fences 
    UNABRIDGED
    by Susan Meissner
    Narrated by Bernadette Dunne

LENGTH 9 hrs and 19 mins
RELEASE DATE 10-06-09
Program Type Audiobook
PUBLISHER Random House Audio
Genre: Christian Fiction
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
When her black sheep brother disappears, Amanda Janvier eagerly takes in her 16-year-old niece, Tally. The girl is practically an orphan: motherless, and living with a father who raises Tally wherever he lands - in a Buick, a pizza joint, a horse farm - and regularly takes off on wild schemes. Amanda envisions that she, her husband Neil, and their two teenagers can offer the girl stability and a shot at a "normal" life, even though their own storybook lives are about to crumble.

Seventeen-year-old Chase Janvier hasn't seen his cousin in years, and other than a vague curiosity about her strange life, he doesn't expect her arrival will affect him much - or interfere with his growing, disturbing interest in a long-ago house fire that plagues his dreams unbeknownst to anyone else.

Tally and Chase bond as they interview two Holocaust survivors for a sociology project and become startlingly aware that the whole family is grappling with hidden secrets, with the echoes of the past, and with the realization that ignoring tragic situations won't make them go away.

Will Tally's presence blow apart their carefully-constructed world, knocking down the illusion of the white picket fence and reveal a hidden past that could destroy them all - or can she help them find the truth without losing each other?
©2009 Susan Meissner; (P)2009 Random House

Review:

Tally’s father is off on one of his many adventures having left her in the care of her grandmother. This is nothing new except that her grandmother has died and no one can reach her dad. Tally is suddenly brought home to live with her Aunt. Tally doesn’t want to tell Aunt Amanda where her dad has gone but she is becoming more concerned the longer he is out of touch. Amanda worries about her brother but also is worried for Tally’s state of mind.

What may appear at first to be a stable, normal home setting, complete with the “white picket fence”, turns into a stressed filled home. Everyone is keeping secrets and they are disrupting the family peace.

Chase has repressed memories from a traumatic fire when he was a child. Aunt Amanda wants to speak openly about the memories and get counseling help if needed. Uncle Neil doesn't think Chase remembers and he doesn't want to bring it up. Neil spends more and more time in the garage working on nice woodwork projects for others without recognizing that his wife and children feel that he has abandoned them.

Chase actually is struggling with the memories seeking to remember portions which have been blocked. While he tries to cope with this, he, Tally and Chase’s best friend work on a school project interviewing two men in a nursing home who lived through the Holocaust and helped to sneak babies out of the Ghetto.

There is very interesting history provided through the interviews of the delightful characters. Although the story starts a bit slowly, it twists with the intensity of Chase’s emotions, some not so appropriate choices by Amanda and some delightful connections that tie the characters. 

I particularly liked a section where Chase has an epiphany and a new beginning. I also enjoyed the history of the German Ghetto which was new to me. My ladies book club all enjoyed the book but we felt there were some issues left unresolved. Reading through the author’s notes at the end of the print and Kindle version gave some perspective on this. The notes were not part of the Audible file. 

The book is Christian fiction but not at all preachy and the characters are far from perfect. I recommend this story to those who enjoy intrigue in a family setting.

Audio Notes: I was very impressed with the narrator’s ability to capture the different ages, voices and emotions for the characters. It enhanced the story for me and made it move more quickly than reading would have.

I read this for my local Ladies Book Club. I downloaded it on Audible to speed my "reading" time.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY FOR PRINT COPY.

ENTRY FORM HERE

For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.

* This contest is open US Only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on March 22, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on March 23, 2013.
Winners are asked to respond by email or the linked winners form within 72 hours of the announcement.

Random at Romance Book Offerings AND a Giveaway!

Random House has some great new romance titles to share and a Giveaway for me to Host. :-)
Stay up to date on all of their latest romance news and enter to win books at:  https://www.facebook.com/RomanceAtRandom

Two titles on sale this week – CLICK the title for an Excerpt!

Edge of Dawn 
by Lara Adrian

A Most Scandalous Proposal

by Ashlyn Macnamara

(Check my 4.5 rated review HERE!)

Books you can read now:

HOW TO MISBEHAVE by Ruthie Knox


And,

THE NOTORIOUS LADY ANNE by Sharon Cullen, "a swashbuckling romance fans of Johanna Lindsey will adore."


Coming soon:

Along Came Trouble by Ruthie Knox


And,

Hero of My Heart by Megan Frampton

CHECK OUT THE NICE FLASHY COVERS IN THESE WIDGETS!

Ruthie Knox’s Camelot Series:
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 Toni Aleo’s Assassins Series: --> -->

And, Loveswept Historical Romances: --> --> 

 AND NOW - FOR THE GIVEAWAY!!

Thank you to ROMANCE AT RANDOM for offering a Galley Print for One US Commenter on this post for Debbie Macomber’s next release, STARTING NOW – a Blossom Street novel.

ENTRY REQUIRES COMMENT

FOR ENTRY:
a) Share why you would like to win Starting Now.
Extra entry:
b) Visit RomanceatRandom Facebook page and tell me something you find of interest  and/OR
c)  -- if you don't do FB -- visit the eBook Romance pages at Random House and share a title of an ebook you would like to read. [I might just pick a name for a RAK ebook :-)]
2 Extra entries if you share the giveaway in any fashion - FB, Twitter, blog sidebar or even email a friend. Share the link in a comment below or email me with the info if you don't want to share all of it in a comment. Send to mesreadsATgmail.com

(Total possible entries per person = 4)
* This contest is open US Only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on March 15, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER(S) WILL BE ANNOUNCED on March 16, 2013.
Winners are asked to respond by email or the linked winners form within 72 hours of the announcement.

Book Review: A Most Scandalous Proposal by Ashlyn Macnamara

I really enjoyed the male heroes in this story.
A Most Scandalous Proposal 
by Ashlyn Macnamara

• File Size: 1116 KB
• Print Length: 354 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0345534743
• Publisher: Ballantine Books (February 26, 2013)
• Sold by: Random House Digital, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B00957T76W

Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: February 26, 2013
In Ashlyn Macnamara’s stunning romance debut—perfect for fans of Julia Quinn, Eloisa James, and Sabrina Jeffries—two childhood friends in Regency England discover love with the most unlikely of partners: each other.
“A tale of high-stakes scandal and heartfelt passion . . . a most delicious treat!”—New York Times bestselling author Tessa Dare
After watching her beloved sister, Sophia, pine over the ton’s golden boy for years, Miss Julia St. Claire has foresworn love and put herself firmly on the shelf. Unfortunately, her social-climbing mother and debt-ridden father have other ideas, and jump at the chance to marry Julia off to the newly named Earl of Clivesden . . . the man of Sophia’s dreams.
Since resigning his cavalry commission, Benedict Revelstoke has spent his time in London avoiding the marriage mart. But when he discovers that the Earl of Clivesden has his sights set on Julia, Benedict tries to protect his childhood best friend from the man’s advances—only to discover that more than friendship is driving his desire to defend her. He surprises them both with the force of his feelings, but when Julia refuses him, and her father announces her betrothal, Benedict fears he’s lost her forever—until Julia approaches him with a shocking scheme that will ruin her for all respectable society and lead them into an exquisite world of forbidden pleasures.
Includes a preview of Ashlyn Macnamara’s next novel, A Most Devilish Rogue.

Review:
Miss Julia is only two-and-twenty and she isn’t interested in the pain she perceives comes with love and marriage. She has watched her seemingly indifferent parents and she has seen the tears and sadness that her older sister, Sophia, has experienced while nurturing a crush on a handsome, womanizing rogue, for the past five years.

Suddenly the rogue, Ludlowe, is to inherit the title of Clivesden and he wants a beautiful, cold-hearted wife to produce children and not embroil him in emotions so he can continue his rakish ways. Julia is rumored to be just such an ‘ice queen.”  Ludlowe pursues Julia even though she makes it clear she isn’t interested in him and tries to move his attentions to her sister.

Julia’s childhood friend, Benedict, is alarmed when he sees that Ludlowe is betting that Julia will be the next Countess of Clivesden.  Benedict goes to warn Julia and soon realizes that he doesn’t want to lose her to anyone else. Before he can convince her that love and marriage have a lot to offer, entanglements occur.

Circumstances, partially contrived by Ludlowe, force Sophia into an engagement with the reclusive Earl of Highgate who has a bitter history involving Ludlowe. When the engagement is announced at a ton ball, their father also announces that Julia will wed Ludlowe. Julia is shocked and upset but that is only a mild reaction compared to the betrayal that Sophia feels and the anger she aims at Julia.

Julia feels betrayed and manipulated by her parents. She sneaks off to make a scandalous proposal to Benedict seeking a way out of the unwanted engagement. What can be done to resolve the mess that is tumbling around Sophia and Julia?

I really enjoyed this story and liked the male characters particularly. Julia is a conservative young woman trying to protect her heart because of a tragic loss she witnessed as a child. Benedict is a strong, honorable, young man who just needed a nudge to realize his feelings. Sophia is a terribly self-centered and silly young woman who has wasted five years pining for an unworthy man. I love how her new betrothed, Highgate, gently but firmly sets out to show Sophia how much he can offer her in support and affection. You actually get two romances in one story and the development of the relationships for both is warm and sensual.

The story moves along very well and I enjoyed the engaging writing style. Although it is straight romance, with no mystery or intrigue, there is good conflict that keeps it interesting. I look forward to reading more in the future from Ms. Macnamara. I recommend that historical romance fans grab this title when it releases and enjoy.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sophia enjoys learning from tender kisses:

The tenderness of gentle nips pressed to her skin tugged at her heart and demanded she return in kind, softness for softness, heat for heat.  Location 2746.

Benedict wants to touch Julia’s passion:

Within the next hour, he planned to cure her of that reserve. He wanted to touch her at such a depth that she could no longer hold her passion in check. Location 4018.

I received this ebook from Random House Digital through NetGalley for an honest review.

Book Review: The Escape Diaries: Life and Love on The Lam by Juliet Rosetti

Outrageous escapades make this story a delightful reading escape!
The Escape Diaries: Life and Love on the Lam
(A Loveswept Contemporary Romance)
by Juliet Rosetti

• File Size: 2019 KB
• Print Length: 316 pages
• Publisher: Loveswept (December 10, 2012)
• Sold by: Random House Digital, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B008ENAWJ4

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: December 10, 2012
Introducing the hilarious new heroine, Mazie Maguire, in Juliet Rosetti’s irresistible debut novel that follows the outrageous adventure of a woman on the run.

Wrongly convicted of killing her philandering husband, Mazie Maguire is three years into her life sentence when fate intervenes—in the form of a tornado. Just like that, she’s on the other side of the fence, running through swamps and cornfields, big box stores and suburban subdivisions. Hoping to find out who really murdered her husband, Mazie must stay a few steps ahead of both the law and her mother-in-law, who would like nothing better than to personally administer Mazie the death penalty via lethal snickerdoodle. With the Feds in hot pursuit and the national media hyping her story, Mazie stumbles upon a vast political conspiracy and a man who might just be worth a conjugal visit—if she survives.

Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: The Devil’s Thief, Paradise Café, and The Perfect Catch.

Review:
Mazie Maguire was a high school  music teacher when she was swept off her feet by a gorgeous, wealthy, socialite, Kip Vonnerjohn. Overwhelmed by the life of the rich and famous and blinded by immature hero worship of the suave man, nine years her senior, Mazie agreed to marry the charmer before she realized his proclivities toward idleness and women. She also hadn’t met his social queen of a mother who hates everything 'low life' about Mazie and will later send her poison cookies in prison! Vengeful Vanessa cut off the purse strings as soon as Kip married Mazie and things headed into trouble from there.

Mazie is accused of killing her philandering husband who was serving divorce papers. Although Mazie slept through the event, supposedly she was caught doing the crime by a nanny camera. The trial was pretty swift and Mazie ended up with a life sentence in Taycheedah prison.

A freak tornado hits while Mazie is in the garden and she leaps at the unexpected chance to escape. Mazie goes through some horrendous, but funny, scenarios as she stumbles one step ahead of the dogs and the Federal Marshall.  Just as they catch up to her she jumps into a manure pile to slip away again.  Mazie hides in a journalist’s van until the big tough driver coaxes her out and forces her into a bathtub. Mazie soon finds herself telling her tale to Labeck who believes that she was framed.

They break into her mother-in-law’s home to get the video tape that convicted her. Too bad Vanessa had laid a trap and Mazie barely escapes electrocution.  Mazie runs again taking Muffin, one of Vanessa’s pampered and ill tempered shih tzu-bichon frise pets, with her.

Mazie doesn’t know who to trust but thinks she has one person she can count one. As Mazie is running from the Feds, her crazed mother-in-law and a relentless killer, she discovers that she has become a super-star escapee in the eyes of the public. It will take several more near death experiences before Mazie gets some help from two enamored teen boys and learns who her real friends are.

This story is laugh-out-loud funny. The characters are brash and zany. There is a totally sassy and irreverent tone to the writing that is different but fun. The escapades that Mazie goes through are almost beyond belief but clearly Ms. Rosetti has a wickedly wild imagination. My final note on this book is: “hilarious!” If you’re ready for a mystery with a whole lot of laughter treat yourself to this fun escape.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mazie and Labeck have trust issues:

“Move a single eyeball toward that knife block,” he growled, “and I tie you to that chair.” Location 1261.

A description of Vanessa’s little dogs:

...suddenly a tide of snarling fur balls engulfed us, growling, snapping and clearly stating in dog language: We’re going to tear you to kibble and gnaw your ears like they’re dried apricots. These were the fiends from hell. Location 1578.

I received this eBook from Random House Digital, through NetGalley, for an honest review.

This story is set in Wisconsin for my 2013 Where Are You Reading Challenge.

Interview with Wendy Vella, Author of The Reluctant Countess

Please help me welcome Wendy Vella, author of The Reluctant Countess, to Reviews by Martha’s Bookshelf.

M:  First, let me say "Congratulations" on your debut novel, The Reluctant Countess.
Wendy: Thanks so much and thank you for having me on your wonderful blog site.

Q1.  I'm always interested to discover the story behind the story. Where did the inspiration for The Reluctant Countess come from?
Wendy:  I was actually looking online for a competition to enter and found one that gave you a scenario for the opening scene; handsome Earl, mysterious Countess and they were both in a ballroom. I’ve never written a story from someone else’s idea before it was quite an interesting exercise and, ‘The Reluctant Countess’ grew from there. I never entered the competition but the book turned out well.

M: Yes, the book turned out well! I’m glad you expanded on the opening scene.
Q2.  What inspired you to write this genre??
Wendy:  The first book I read was Georgette Heyer, These Old Shades, and I was pretty much hooked from the opening page. I loved the idea of writing about an era that I knew so little about and that I or nobody I have ever known has lived in. You do get a certain amount of freedom too, because we know only what we’ve learnt in books not through our own experiences. It’s important that it’s historically correct of course but you can let your imagination run riot. 

M: Georgette Heyer is classic for Historical Romance, especially with that touch of mystery that you brought to The Reluctant Countess.
Q3.  Is there an ancillary character in this book that you had a lot or fun with? Might they appear in a future book?
Wendy:  Lord Sumner was great fun to write.  He’s Patrick, the hero’s, best friend and also finds love in ‘The Reluctant Countess.’ He’s the opposite of Patrick, he laughs often and jokes a lot and has some great one liners in the book. Unfortunately he won’t get his own book because his romance is tied up neatly in the end too. I love his relationship with Patrick, he’s probably the only one in the book who doesn’t give Patrick an inch, and he’s always challenging him.

M:  Yes. Stephen, Lord Sumner, was a great sidekick and provided lots of added color and fun.
Q4.  What would you say makes a romance novel a great love story?
Wendy:  I think a romance novel has to have several elements to make it great; humor is big for me and characters that are not quite perfect. I love sharp dialogue but most of all I love a bit of intrigue. I like stories where the hero and heroine finally get together despite the obstacles they had to hurdle to find each other.

M:  All of those are good elements and I like how you worked them together well in your story.
Q5. Would you please share a surprising thing about your experience writing this book, or about your research?
Wendy:  I didn’t end up using it in the book, but I was researching shops in London and came across the Cow Keepers Shop in Golden Lane in the city of London. The shop was the ground floor of his house where the cows were kept in well ventilated stalls.  People and the milk maids could come and purchase their milk, I thought this was ingenious!

M: Very interesting and thanks for the image!
Q6.  Is any of your writing from your own experiences or is it completely your imagination?
Wendy:  No it’s all my imagination. I do use some traits in my characters from people I know, but mostly it’s just inside my head. It can get a busy in there at times.

M: I appreciate a busy imagination especially when it gets shared in writing!
Q7.  Do your work career/hobbies/interests influence your writing?
Wendy:  Probably only in so far as they limit my ability to write as often as I would like. I work full time and write in the evenings but I’m also a road cyclist so that takes up a bit of time as sometimes my husband and I can be out on the roads for a few hours. I’ve always found the time to write each day and usually fit in 2 to 3 hours most nights.

M: I’m glad you fit the writing time in and share with readers like me.
Q8.  When you get time to read what authors do you read?
Wendy: I have my favorites; Eloisa James, Lisa Kleypas, Julia Quinn and Nora Roberts, but there are so many more who I enjoy, but these are the ones whose books I read as soon as they come out.

M: I agree with several of these… I just have been busy reading “new-to-me” authors like you. J
Q9.  What do you hope your readers get out of your book?
Wendy: I hope my readers enjoy Patrick and Sophie’s journey as much as I did writing it. I hope they laugh and cry and sigh, but most importantly I hope they can’t put it down.

M:  Success - As I noted in my review it does keep you glued and not wanting to put it down.
Q10.   If you could have readers finish a sentence what would it be?

***Wendy: She picked up her skirts and ran towards him as he came through the door, she was distraught and his blood ran cold as he heard her say…

M: Thank you for taking time to share.

Wendy Vella is a lover of all things romantic. She started reading her first Georgette Heyer book at a young age and instantly fell in love with the Regency era. Writing is something she has always found time for; she penned her first novel at eighteen though she says it will never make an appearance further than the closet in which it currently resides.

After having her two children Wendy then joined RWNZ and started honing her chosen craft by entering competitions with some success and attending conferences. Her Clendon and Readers Choice award-winning historical romance The Reluctant Countess will debut in Jan 2013 with Random House in their Loveswept line.

She has an addiction to reading and loves a wide range of genres while her first love will always be historical. She relishes novels steeped in Romance and excitement with feisty heroines and delicious heroes, especially when they are set amongst the treacherous waters of London society.

Wendy is a sucker for a happy ending having secured her own. She has been married to her own dark brooding hero for 28 years and shares her home with two wonderful children, two dogs and anyone else who happens to be visiting at the time. Born and raised in a rural area in the North Island of New Zealand, Wendy loves the beaches and lush green rolling hills of her homeland and is proud to call herself a very patriotic Kiwi!

Visit my website: http://www.wendyvella.com/
Facebook: http://facebook.com/AuthorWendyVella
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/wendy_vella
Email: wendy@wendyvella.com

“THE RELUCTANT COUNTESS” can be purchased from Random House Inc. http://www.randomhouse.com/book/221633/the-reluctant-countess-by-wendy-vella

From Wendy Vella comes a Cinderella story of whirlwind passion between a dashing earl and a beautiful countess—and the secret that threatens to tear them apart.

Regal, poised, and elegant, Sophie, Countess of Monmouth, is everything that a highborn lady should be. But Sophie is hiding a past that is far from royal. When Patrick, Earl of Coulter, realizes that her story doesn’t add up, he resolves to find out the truth of what Sophie and her sister-in-law are concealing. Although Sophie has every reason to avoid him, the handsome and charismatic Patrick awakens something wicked deep within her soul . . . a powerful need that Sophie must stifle in order to protect her place in society.

Despite Sophie’s humble background, the raven-haired beauty has won Patrick’s heart. But what Sophie needs now is an ally. Viscount Myles Dumbly, the disgruntled former heir of Monmouth, is determined to expose Sophie as a fraud to recapture his lost inheritance. Soon Patrick is drawn into a fight for both their lives. Somehow he must find a way not only to rescue Sophie from poverty once and for all, but to keep her in his arms forever.

Scribd FREE Excerpt available:Vella ReluctantCountess Final

Thank you to Random House for allowing me to Host a 

GIVEAWAY

1 print book and 3 Net Galley Preview copies.

ENTRY FORM HERE

3 Extra Bonus entries: Comment with an answer to the question from author Vella in violet block and red text above (marked ***).
2 Extra Bonus entries: Comment on my Review - Previous Post.

* This contest is open: US ONLY for Print and 3 Net Galley copies open to ALL.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on January 18, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on January 19, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: The Reluctant Countess by Wendy Vella

This is a light, fun historical that I really enjoyed.

The Reluctant Countess: A Loveswept Historical Romance
by Wendy Vella

• File Size: 1989 KB
• Publisher: Loveswept (January 14, 2013)
• Sold by: Random House Digital, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B008WOUNIK

Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: January 14, 2013
From rising romance star Wendy Vella comes a Cinderella story of whirlwind passion between a dashing earl and a beautiful countess—and the secret that threatens to tear them apart.

Regal, poised, and elegant, Sophie, Countess of Monmouth, is everything that a highborn lady should be. But Sophie is hiding a past that is far from royal. When Patrick, Earl of Coulter, realizes that her story doesn’t add up, he resolves to find out the truth of what Sophie and her sister-in-law are concealing. Although Sophie has every reason to avoid him, the handsome and charismatic Patrick awakens something wicked deep within her soul . . . a powerful need that Sophie must stifle in order to protect her place in society.

Despite Sophie’s humble background, the raven-haired beauty has won Patrick’s heart. But what Sophie needs now is an ally. Viscount Myles Dumbly, the disgruntled former heir of Monmouth, is determined to expose Sophie as a fraud to recapture his lost inheritance. Soon Patrick is drawn into a fight for both their lives. Somehow he must find a way not only to rescue Sophie from poverty once and for all, but to keep her in his arms forever.

Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: The Escape Diaries, The Devil’s Thief, and The Magic.

Review:
Sophie is thought of as an ice maiden. The truth is she is a former maid trying to be accepted as a Countess. She has to concentrate on dancing and small talk and staying in control. Sophie, with her young child Timmy, and her sister-in-law, Lady Letitia Carstairs, are protecting their interests and positions as widows.

Patrick suspects something isn’t quite right with Sophie’s behavior.  He is determined to break through her walls to discover her secrets.  Sophie tries to resist Patrick’s charms but he upsets her composure and she loses focus every time he’s near.  But she brings emotions to him that he has never felt either – warmth, craving.

Sophie is threatened by Viscount Myles Dumbly who would have inherited Monmouth if it weren’t for Sophie and Timmy.  Now she is receiving blackmail threats that she thinks are from the power hungry and evil man she rejected before she moved to Monmouth.

Although Sophie tries to handle the blackmail on her own she has to seek Patrick’s help when Timmy is kidnapped.  Patrick, his good friend, Stephen, and Sophie manage to rescue Timmy and his maid. Now Patrick knows her secrets and she knows some of his so they feel safe with each other. But Sophie is still threatened and Patrick has taken on to be her protector and more.

This is the sort of historical romance I really enjoy. There is mystery, conflicted attraction, a dangerous threat and ultimately an acknowledged love and safety. Ms. Vella immediately begins to build the physical, sensual interest and the mystery between the primary characters. There is a fun side kick in Stephen who gets his own romance interest in the story too.

The writing flows very easily making this a quick read which I practically read in one sitting. There are strong descriptions of setting and attire that create a vividness to the action. The plot moves along well and the romance is warm and sexy without being too much.  If you enjoy historical romance with mystery and a strong, protective hero, you should like this one.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sophie’s sister-in-law, Letty, describes Patrick:

“Calls to mind a large jungle cat, all feral grace and beauty,” Letty whispered. Location 211.

Patrick’s friend, Stephen, teases him:

“Why don’t you just throw her over your shoulder and be done with it?” Location 778.

I received this for an honest reviewing from Random House. Please see the next post for Author Q&A and Giveaway!

Book Review: Darksiders The Abomination Vault by Ari Marmell

If you like action, and don't mind some darkness in the story, then you should try this book.

Darksiders The Abomination Vault

by Ari Marmell

• File Size: 2101 KB
• Print Length: 370 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: B008O3ITWG
• Publisher: Del Rey (July 24, 2012)
• Sold by: Random House Digital, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B0074CLJDO

Genre: Fantasy

My rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: July 24, 2012

Ride with the Horsemen of the Apocalypse as they seek to unearth a plot that could plunge all of Creation into chaos!

Ages before the events of Darksiders and Darksiders II, two of the feared Horsemen—Death and War—are tasked with stopping a group of renegades from locating the Abomination Vault: a hoard containing weapons of ultimate power and malice, capable of bringing an end to the uneasy truce between Heaven and Hell . . . but only by unleashing total destruction.

Created in close collaboration with the Darksiders II teams at Vigil and THQ, Darksiders: The Abomination Vault gives an exciting look at the history and world of the Horsemen, shining a new light on the unbreakable bond between War and Death.

Review:

This was a very enjoyable fantasy read! I didn’t realize that it was connected with some gaming world. When it began I wasn’t quite sure how I felt about the obvious complete fantasy world with Death as the main character. Soon the action began and I was drawn into the story.  I found Death was not all horrible and wicked even though he is rather formidable.  Later he is joined by his brothers, War and Strife, and sister, Fury.  Although Death doesn’t want them to interfere in his battle, War comes along and helps Death in a battle against two renegades who would unleash destruction, pain and hate in the world.

Death is given an assignment by the Charred Council. They are the group who stands at the pivot point of all Creation, protecting the Balance between the Angels of Heaven and the Demons of Hell. The investigation reveals that a renegade angel is involved in the threat to unleash destruction. I loved how Death teams up with Azrael, an Angel of the White City, to face the danger. Sort of “the enemy of my foe is my friend” alliance.

Death is a one man army; full of action. His skills, beyond killing, include pulling last memories from dying souls. There is great imagery in characters and settings. Even the horses of Death and War have their own personalities.  The adventure involves dark, twisted creatures in dark, bloody places and almost nonstop battles.  I was glad the rough language was stopped at ‘damn’ and there was nothing uglier than that.

Even in the world of Death it is heartening to know that good can defeat evil. I really recommend this story if you like full on action.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fun dialogue:

“What do you mean, no?”
“I wasn’t aware the word had multiple meanings,” Death said. Location 326

Good Imagery:

The saddle on which War sat was as much steel as leather; the bridle, like Death’s, was a chain, though this one was thick and free of blemish or rust. Location 1325.

I picked this up through Random House on NetGalley.