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chanzie

Mean Who You Are

I love reading and writing. I read most genres but my favourites would be paranormal romances and inspirational/motivational books. I have mostly started this blog because I love to read so much and want to share my reviews and thoughts with the world or anyone who wants to read it, giving my little bit of input to the world as well as any topics of light that would help and motivate you. I am also an aspiring author, in between reading books and reviewing them, I am writing two separate books, one fiction and one non-fiction. I have too many books and Ebooks, enough to last me probably 2 lifetimes! You can never have enough books... he he

Mini Book Review: Voodoo Moon (Charmed #5) by Wendy C Staub & Constance M Burge

Voodoo Moon - Wendy Corsi Staub

Series: Charmed #5
Publisher: Pocket Books
Publication Date: 1999
Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy
Source: Bought
Audio or Book: paperback
Length: 192 pages

Overview:
The Halliwells are on holiday in New Orleans. But on Prue, Piper and Phoebe's first night in the Big Easy, Phoebe has a dream filled with images of strange, violent rituals under a full moon. Soon after, a friend of Prue's disappears.

Previous reviews:
The Power of Three (Charmed #1)
Kiss of Darkness (Charmed #2)
Crimson Spell (Charmed #3)
Whispers from the past (Charmed #4)

My Review:

 

This quick pocketbook read freaked me out... Voodoo + Zombies = Nightmares. Weird I know.. This doesn't normally happen. There was something really intense about this book! I loved the adventure - what can you expect when the Charmed ones take a vacation to New Orleans... trouble and magic! There was 1 twist I expected & 2 I didn't see coming! 

 

Final Thoughts: 

I really enjoyed this quick read even though it gave me some nightmares - Bring on the next one!

 

Love

 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/08/mini-book-review-voodoo-moon-charmed-5.html

Book review: Angel Astrology 101 by Doreen Virtue & Yasmin Boland

Angel Astrology 101: Discover the Angels Connected with Your Birth Chart - Doreen Virtue, Yasmin Boland

Publisher: Hay House
Publication Date: 13 March 2014
Genre: Spirituality
Source: NetGalley / Publisher (In exchange for an honest Review)
Audio or Book: eBook
Length: 288 pages

Overview:
Learn about the archangels who work with your birth chart in Doreen Virtue’s Angel Astrology 101. Co-authored by the widely published astrologist and Angel Therapist Yasmin Boland, this is the first book to combine angelology and astrology. The 12 beautifully illustrated and easy-to-understand chapters describe the personality characteristics of each of the sun, moon, and rising signs, as well as which archangels to call upon in association with them. Angel Astrology 101 is perfect for anyone who is new to these subjects—but it also offers plenty of fresh insights and material for those who have long worked with either astrology or the angels.


My Review 

 

When I saw this book it grabbed my attention for so many reasons... I love angels, I love astrology and that is a gorgeous cover *cover junkie moment*!

 

This is a very colourful book with an awesome layout and stunning pictures throughout the book. It took me a while to get into it but only because I needed to find my chart so I could read the relevant sections which it made it that much more interesting. I enjoyed the small things about the books as well like how they included the star constellation and each Angel's specialties. 

 

Angel Astrology 101 is a very interesting read. Personally I would prefer this in paperback so that I can refer to it when I need to. It can be read from cover to cover but I think it is more interesting when you can apply it to something or someone you know. 

 

Final Thoughts: This is a beautiful book and it will probably end up on my bookshelf!

 

Love

 

Chanzie

 

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/07/book-review-angel-astrology-101-by.html

Book Review: Nightshade (Nightshade #1) by Andrea Cremer

Nightshade: Book 1 - Andrea Cremer

Series: Nightshade #1
Publisher: Philomel
Publication Date: 01 January 2010
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Source: Purchased
Audio or Book: Paperback
Length: 452 pages

Overview:
Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything- including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

 

 My Review

 

Nightshade is one of those books I picked up on sale (at Bargain Books - Buy 3 for R99) and have been on my bookshelf for about 2 years! I didn't really  have any expectations going into the book after it won my book of the month poll for July. If you haven't voted for August... Go vote now.. please :). 

 

Initially I sighed thinking.. Another werewolf book. I have read quite a few of them lately, but boy was I wrong! This was not just another werewolf book, it was a werewolf book with many twists! Take your werewolves and throw in a mix of magic! What made it even more fun is that Niki from The Obsessive Bookseller joined in and made it a read-a-long!

 

Nightshade kicks off with an intense opening scene that just throws you into the thick of things. I could already tell it was werewolves with a difference, there blood heals humans and Calla has had an arranged marriage since birth. There are quite a few layers to the story which definitely kept it interesting!

 

Characters & Story line: 5/5

 

Andrea creates all types of characters in Nightshade. The ones you love that creep into your heart and stick like glue, the ones who just creep you out and ooze evil, and the ones that just plain annoy you! Yes Nightshade also has a love triangle... but there are lots of other elements that come into play that make it interesting.

 

Calla - Calla is not your typical heroine. She is actually more of an anti-heroine (in my opinion) but will do anything to protect her pack. Calla is your grungy kick ass warrior, not your finesse princess that some people want her to be. Since the day she was born she was arranged to marry Ren. Then she saves Shay from a bear attack (this all happens within the first two chapters so this is not a spoiler) and everything changes for her. I do think that Andrea kept all the love angels interesting. All in all Calla is a great main character!

 

Ansel - Ansel is Calla's younger brother and I loved him immediately! His protectiveness towards Calla even though he is the younger one is adorable. There is just something so pure and sweet about him that I just wanted to eat him up! 

 

Ren - Ren Ren Ren *sigh* as much as I like Shay I am total Team Ren!!! Yes - he comes across as a womanizer and all that but there is something underneath it all that just appeals to me. He has such a tenderness for Calla that he covers up because he is an alpha but it creeps through when they are alone! I think Ren was made to break the rules even though they have been drilled into all of them from birth. I really hope to see more of him in Wolfsbane and Bloodrose!!

 

Shay - Shay is a great character. He challenges Calla and isn't scared to fight for want he wants (within limits). I knew from the beginning that there was some twists coming when it comes to Shay but I still have a few unanswered questions. I can see why everybody loves Shay but unfortunately in the Ren versus Shay battle.. you know who I choose!

 

Fey & Sabine - There are always characters that get on your nerves and for me, it's these two!! Just thought I'd put my two cents in there... 

 

The pack - The pack is great and I enjoyed seeing the Nightshades and Banes trying to gel together and make it work before the Calla and Ren union. There are few more characters that add flavour to the story but I will let you meet them on your own!

 

Plot, Pace, Writing style: 4/5  


Nightshade catches your attention from page 1. I was not 100% hooked from page 1 but was extremely interested and drawn into the story slowly. The chapters were nice lengths, I don't know if it's just me but long chapters make the book feel a bit drawn out. These ones were just perfect, not too short and not too long. 

The plot is unique and the writing style is easy to follow. The pace is perfect! So Nightshade does end on quite a big cliffhanger... Thank goodness I already picked up Wolfsbane a few days ago so that I can just dive straight into the next book!!

Cover talk: 4/5 
I really liked the cover and it is what made me grab the book in the first place. 


Final Thoughts: 
Nightshade is an unexpected enjoyable completely unique read! It has a refreshing take on werewolves without losing any of the magic and adding plenty of excitement

 

Author Bio:
Andrea Cremer is the author of the internationally bestselling Nightshade series. She spent her childhood daydreaming and roaming the forests and lakeshores of Northern Wisconsin. 


Andrea has always loved writing and has never stopped writing, but she only recently plunged into the deep end of the pool that is professional writing. Before she wrote her first novel, Andrea was a history professor at Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota. In her books, she strives to bring together her two passions: history and fantasy. Andrea now lives in New York and writes full time.


Author Links: Goodreads l website l twitter

 

Love

 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/07/book-review-nightshade-nightshade-1-by.html

Mini Book review: Whispers from the Past (Charmed #4) by Rosalind Noonan

Whispers from the Past  (Charmed) - Rosalind Noonan

Series: Charmed #4
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication Date: 2000
Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy
Source: Library
Audio or Book: Paperback
Length: 179 pages

Overview:

Phoebe Halliwell is having a very bad day. A demon has pulled her back centuries into the past and she has no way of telling her sisters, Prue and Piper, what has happened to her.


Previous reviews:
The Power of Three #1
Kiss of Darkness #2
The Crimson Spell #3


My Review:

This was such a fun read - Whispers from the past is one of my favourite Charmed reads so far. The story is about all three sisters, but for me it was mostly about Phoebe. I could picture the adventure exactly like it would happen in the TV show. 

 

You get to see the darker side of Prue and Piper... Let me tell you they are bad-ass! Phoebe gets sucked into a time portal while chasing a demon and gets stuck in the 1600's... The time of the witch hunts! You can just imagine how things can go wrong on both ends as Phoebe tries to get home and her sisters start turning evil slowly but surely. 

 

Final Thoughts:


I can honestly say I am addicted to these quick reads! Too bad I am 10 years to late and am having trouble locating some of the books. 

 

Love

 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/07/mini-book-review-whispers-from-past.html

Tour Stop & Book Reviews: Crimson Beat & Indigo Dawn by Elle J Rossi

Crimson Beat - Spring Equinox (The Celtic Tapestry Collection, Book 1) - Elle J Rossi Indigo Dawn (The Josie Hawk Chronicles, Volume 3) - Elle J Rossi

Hello Everyone!! Welcome to my stop for the Josie Hawk Chronicles tour! To see the full schedule click here or on the banner above. I have been soooooo excited about this tour since I read the novella Alabaster nights in May this year. 


Previous reviews:
Alabaster Nights (#0.5)

Series: Josie Hawk Chronicles #0.6
Publication Date: 21 March 2013
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Source: Dark World Books (In exchange for an honest Review)
Audio or Book: ebook
Length: +- 13k words

Overview:

The Spring Equinox brings a slew of nasties to the streets of Nashville. Huntress Josie Hawk is determined to get her arch enemy to sign a treaty, whether the Assembly is behind her or not. But when Keller O'Leary--sexiest vampire alive--returns, will Josie learn to be a team player, or will she stake the heart that has captured hers?

 

(Originally part of the anthology A Celtic Tapestry)

 

My Review:

 

I loved this Novella!! I could just eat up Josie & Keller or squish them with love. This story is a great connector between Alabaster Nights & Indigo Dawn. You find out how Josie & Keller finally find a way to 'work' out their issues. This novella is all from Josie's point of view and I just love how her mind works.

 

Final Thoughts: 
This is a great read that just whets your appetite and gets your ready for book 1!

 

Series: Josie Hawk Chronicles #1
Publisher: Moon Rise Publishing
Publication Date: 25 March 2014
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Source: Dark World Books (In exchange for an honest Review)
Audio or Book: ebook
Length: 144 pages

Overview:

Vampire Lust and Pixie Dust.

 

Josie Hawk is a Huntress. A killer devoted to protecting the humans of Nashville from the shadows that lurk in the night. But the shadows are gaining ground.

 

When an infamous pixie tricks Josie into a drug-induced nightmare, Josie envisions the death of her vampire lover, Keller O'Leary. Was the vision a threat ... maybe even a promise? But from whom?

 

Desperate to track down the source of the toxic psychedelic pixie dust, Josie kicks and punches her way toward the truth. But her efforts backfire, provoking a deadly attack at Wolfie’s—the bar Josie co-owns with her sister-in-arms, Sage.

 

Tag. You’re it.

 

Haunted by the threat to Keller, Josie scrambles to outwit her elusive opponent before the deadly game escalates and claims more lives. But in saving Nashville, will Josie lose those she loves?

 

Or will she be too late to stop the deadly game of tag?

 

My Review:

Indigo dawn is a fun fantastic read filled with pixies, witches, vampires, attitude, love and friendship! You cannot help but be drawn in from page one. I definitely think that reading the novella's helped set the scene for Indigo Dawn and this book did not disappoint! 

 

I love the explanation of the title Indigo dawn - it really is beautiful. You'll need to read it to appreciate it. It's one of those passages that you can picture so clearly and it touches your heart. 

 

Characters & Storyline: 4/5

Every single character is easy to connect to and easy to love. Elle creates interesting characters that are fun and crawl into your heart. 

 

I really enjoyed the fact that Josie and Keller were already a couple. They didn't need to figure it all out and were not trying to save each other, just protective and possessive. They are already a team and that adds so much more to the story for me. 

 

Josie - Josie is so kick ass! I love her feistiness & attitude. Yes - she is stubborn, but it is not that annoying pull out your hair stubborn. She holds out just enough and knows when she is being unreasonable. I love being in Josie's mind and her attitude made me laugh so many time. Josie's character is written from the first person pov. 

 

Keller - Keller us so cool, calm, collected & passionate! He just oozes smexiness and is head over heals in a good way for Josie. Their banter cracked me up and the romance is intense with a few steamy scenes. What's not to love.. Keller is a sexy vampire who is crazy about Josie and is the drummer in a band? Keller's character is written in the third person pov. 

 

Crimson Beat - Crimson beat is Keller's band that plays at Wolfie's in the evenings. They also help Josie keep the streets of Nashville safe. Each member adds flavour to the story and all adore Josie to bits - they would do anything for her! 

 

Plot, Pace, Writing style: 4/5  

Elle has an easy writing style and the story flowed easily. The plot was good, even if I did figure out a few things before the time - I enjoyed the ride. The change in pov style didn't bug me in the least. I enjoy Elle's writing style and it just works for me! I was annoyed  that I kept getting interrupted when reading this story, this had nothing to do with the story though. 

 

Elle ended Indigo Dawn on a rounded note with lots to work on in books to come - no cliffhanger here.  

 

Cover talk: 5/5 

I love this cover! I love it so much I want a copy for my bookshelf one day... It would look so beautiful <3

 

Final Thoughts: 

I love this series! It is easily one of my new favourite and I will be following it closely. 

 

(Unfortunately I lost all my favourite quotes when I originally wrote the post because it didn't save!)


Author Bio:
Elle J Rossi is a writer of Dark Paranormal and Fantasy Romance. Overly fond of the happily ever after, Elle lets her characters take control as they lead her down dark and twisted paths on their haunting journey toward love.


When not writing, you'll more than likely catch her hanging with her husband, two kids and a cat who truly does rule the roost, or stealing the mic from her friends as the duel over country karaoke.


Author Links: Goodreads l website l twitter


Love

 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/07/tour-stop-book-reviews-crimson-beat.html

Book Review: Ever Shade (A Dark Faerie Tale #1) by Alexia Purdy

Ever Shade - Alexia Purdy

Series: A Dark Faerie Tale #1
Publisher: Lyrical Lit. Publishing
Publication Date: 05 July 2011
Genre: YA, Fantasy
Source: Amazon Freebie
Audio or Book: ebook
Length: 282 pages

Overview:

For Shade, a chance meeting with a powerful Teleen faery warrior who wields electrical currents and blue fires along his skin, has her joining him on a treacherous mission for the good Seelie Faerie Court across the land of Faerie. Magic and malice abound and nothing is what it really seems to be. The evil Unseelie Queen and her treacherous allies are around every corner as Shade makes her way across the breathtaking landscapes of the world of Faerie, which exists alongside the mundane human world.

 

Shade discovers her own uncharted magic and meets some of the most powerful warriors in Faerie while battling evil dryads, conniving Teleen guards and challenges on her life with every step in a world where nothing can be taken for granted.


Previous reviews:
The Withering Palace (0.1) & Evangeline (0.5)

My Review:
This was a very spontaneous read for me! I decided to go back down the list of my freebies (And yes there are too many...) and I went to the very first freebie I grabbed which happened to be this one!! 

 

I cannot remember the last time I read a fantasy novel about faeries. Ever Shade has a Hobbit/LOTR type feel, (I have watched the movies but am yet to read the books.. this really is just to set the scene), where a volunteer group is put together to assist Shade on her to retrieve some water from a magical fountain which will help prevent a faerie war which could over flow into the human world. Along the way they have overcome obstacles and challenges.

 

Honestly this was such a refreshing read after all the paranormal romances and dystopian books I have been reading lately. I really just enjoyed the adventure - there was no love plot angle complication.. yet. There is a hint of romance to come possible. 

 

Characters & Story line: 3/5

This was a great change for me to have a character that was not focused on saving her one true love or visa versa. The characters are interesting and unique. I am not sure if it is annoying or funny that everyone tries their magic out on Shade and is surprised with the results!

 

Shade - I love this name! I found Shade very easy to relate to and easy to understand - especially when it comes to her decisions. Shade has always been different and I like that she has accepted the voices in her head and as a part of who she is, (being that she is not crazy), she is ok that she is different. 

 

Jack - Jack is the first magical being that Shade meets and he takes her to his oracle. Jack is so calm and nice. He protects Shade before he even realises she is important. Jack is fun and responsible. 

 

Soap - Really Soap? What a nickname. The story where he got it is quite amusing but really.. Soap?? He is so witty and mischievous. I like him. He is definitely a character I would love to read about more. 

 

Dylan - hmmm... Dylan what a complicated character. I didn't really like him at first because of his attitude towards Shade. I only really warmed up to him a little bit in the last third of the book. I think he has a lot of potential. 

 

There are so many characters in the group but these are the main ones that are worth a mention. So who was the character that really irritated me... Sylphi! You going to need to read this book to find out who she is and why... I was so happy with the little stunt Shade threw at the end.. *tee hee* I was grinning from ear to ear!

 

Plot, Pace, Writing style: 4/5  

Ever Shade is easy to get into. The pace seems moderate and it is such a great adventure story. I like that romance doesn't play a big role and hints only comes in later. Honestly, I didn't know who Shade might like until after halfway into the book - first hint - but it is still not certain. I am #TeamSoap

Ever Shade had a great ending. No cliffhanger but there is a lot to work with in the books to follow. 

Cover talk: 3/5 

The cover is nice. I like the blues and the font is catchy. 


Final Thoughts: 

This is an enjoyable adventure read and I will most probably carry on with this series to see how it all goes down. 

 

Favourite Quotes

"She can't really fly, it's more like, float gracefully." ~ Jack

 

Author Bio:

Alexia currently lives in Las Vegas, Nevada–Sin City! She loves to spend every free moment writing or playing with her four rambunctious kids. Writing has always been her dream and she has been writing ever since she can remember. She loves writing paranormal fantasy and poetry and devours books daily. Alexia also enjoys watching movies, dancing, singing loudly in the car and Italian food. 


Author Links: Website l Twitter l Goodreads

Love

 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/07/book-review-ever-shade-dark-faerie-tale.html

Book Review: Portals - A fantasy anthology

Portals: A Fantasy Anthology - Christy Thomas, Echo Shea, Anna Simpson, Havva Murat, Laurie Treacy, Michael Siciliano

Publisher: Roane Publishing
Publication Date: 05 June 2014
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Competition Win - ARC from Publisher
Audio or Book: ebook
Length: 220 pages

Overview:
No matter what world you call home, and what your station in life, there are just some paths that weren't meant to be tread.

1 - Maronda’s Quest by Christy Thomas

The Grand Wizard has decreed Maronda enter the Portal of Life to embark upon a quest of great importance, but despite her Ma’s claims it is a blessing, premonitions of danger persist.

 

Lenox works to prove his worth to wed her, his true love, but it appears a wizard plots to remove him from Maronda’s life forever. To secure their future together, Lenox decides to accompany her on the quest, even if forbidden. He must ultimately choose between using his dragon fighting skills which could lead to his death, or give Maronda her greatest desire.

In the end, it’s Maronda who must learn to live with the consequences of his decision.

 

Mini Review

I loved this quick short story. Maronda is brave and beautiful. Christy takes you on a quick roller coaster ride of emotions with Maronda & Lenox.  This is everything a short story should be

 

2 - Mexmur, the Huntress by Anna Simpson

Long ago a dragonkeeper betrayed his charges. To bring back magic, to set things right, Mexmur is sent through the portal. Can she succeed armed with only a poem, talon and blade?

 

Mini Review

Initially I wasn't too sure about this short story but the moment Anna introduced Grrr I fell in love with it. I love the Dragon twist in it! 

 

3 - Entrance of Lost Souls by Echo Shea

A guardian to the entrances between worlds, Gladys has been called to bring a little girl back from Fairyland. Passing through the Entrance of Lost Souls is no fun, neither is hunting down a deranged banshee, but what is a guardian to do?

 

And, is the banshee really kidnapping the girl...or saving her from something else?

 

Mini Review

This was an interesting story that had all types of paranormal characters from trolls too banshees and demons. It was a good quick fantasy adventure. 

 

4 - Where Once were Hearts by Havva Murat

After losing both his parents, his entire fortune and his childhood sweetheart, Master Bartholomew Battlesby sets out into the wilds of Northern England to make the acquaintance of his only surviving relation, the landed recluse, Mr. Horatio Grimsby who has an eerie penchant for both tinkering and clockwork. But, on finding his relation dead, with a gaping hole in his chest, and the beautiful, but scornful, Miss Evangeline Witherop ruling in his place, Bartholomew learns there is more than one way to lose your heart.

 

Can Bartholomew reignite the spirit of love and mercy within Miss Witherop, or will he suffer the same fate as his poor, heartless cousin?

 

Mini Review:

I enjoyed the humor that Havva brings to this short story. This is quite an entertaining read. It was a short sweet story about righting a wrong and it has an element of love.

 

5 - Ordinary World by Laurie Treacy

Imagine a new neighbor moves next door, a creepy guy who gives fifteen year-old Amy Silva the willies? Amy wonders what the stone archway in the backyard is for. Her life becomes even more stressful when her family reveals they’re witches. Could Amy’s new neighbor have anything to do with a local girl’s disappearance or be a threat to her magical loved ones?

 

Mini Review:

This was a very nice read but maybe a bit too predictable for me. I really liked each character and do think that Laurie could maybe make this a great full length story, adding elements that she only just touched on here.

 

6 - The Lunatic Queen by Michael Siciliano

The land of Mershinka has been thrown into perpetual night. Their King is dead and a moon witch, known as The Night Queen, rules from the royal palace in Grosnov. An endless fog shrouds the land, killing crops and starving the populace. Cold-eyed enforcers put down rebellions while volksa, twisted wolf-creatures, roam the mists looking for prey. Many have given up hope and wait for the inevitable end. All seems lost.

 

Two teenagers, Pavel and Tamara, devise a plan to kill Vazya the Night Queen when the moons Kainsk and Seresnya are down, end the stifling enchantment, and bring the sun back to their dying land. But, they need a watch to tell time, a compass to guide them through the mists, weapons to fight off Vazya’s minions, and all the courage they can muster.

 

Mini Review:

The Lunatic Queen is an interesting adventure filled with great mini twists. I enjoyed the weird creatures Michael creates like the volksa's. I actually enjoyed that the love relationship between was already in place between Pavel and Tamara. 

 

Cover talk: 5/5 I love that cover. It is gorgeous! 


Final Thoughts: I really enjoyed this Anthology. It is filled with great mini adventures. 

Favourite Story: Maronda's Quest 

Favourite Character: Grrr 

 

Love

 

Chanzie

 

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/07/book-review-arc-portals-fantasy_3.html

Book Review: Bitten (WotO #1) by Kelley Armstrong

Bitten - Kelley Armstrong

Series: Women of the Otherworld #1
Publisher: Orbit
Publication Date: 25 September 2001
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Source: Bought
Audio or Book: Paperback
Length: 448 pages

Overview:
Elena Michaels is a werewolf. She tries to be human, but the man whose bite changed her existence forever, and his legacy, continue to haunt her. Thrown into a desperate war for survival that tests her allegiance to a secret clan of werewolves, Elena must reconsider who and what she is.

 

My Review:

This was one of those books I bought on a whim... I was at the book exchange and I had some credit that I needed to use up before I lost it. I have heard so many good things about Kelley Armstrong so I just added it to my ever increasing TBR pile. While browsing some blogs that night I saw a great review on The Geeky Bloggers Book Blog.Yay... A good reference.. So I added it to my Book of the Month Poll for June. Then Niki @ The Obsessive Bookseller totally convinced me I needed to read this book soon.... And it won book of the month.... See it was all meant to be! I was shocked when I got to the end of the book about discovered that this was Kelley's first novel.. wow really??? It was so well written, if I didn't read it for myself at the end of the book I'm not sure I would have believed it. 

 

This book is amazing. It is filled with love, friendship, heartbreak, adventure and fun! If you love werewolf books... this one is for you! As far as I can tell all the books in this series can be read as stand alone novels. 

 

Characters & Storyline: 4/5

Kelly creates well rounded and interesting characters. 

 

Elena -  Elena is an outcast trying to fit into the human world.  I like love her to bits. What I loved most about her is that she is not perfect! She is strong, broody and unpredictable. She is not an anti-heroine but she has so many flaws and resists what she thinks doesn't work for her around every bend. She grows throughout the story and I was throwing a party when she realised what she needed to realise without compromising herself - if that makes any sense without giving away any spoilers. There were times when I wanted to smack her over the head when it came to Clay but the journey was worth it. 

 

Clay - Clay Clay Clay... Clay is awesome! He is who he is and he feels how he feels and that's it! He is one of those characters that just made the story for me. By the end of it he became my favourite character. He is so devoted to Elena and such a wild card. If I haven't convinced you to read this book... read it to meet Clay.

 

Jeremy, Nick, Antonia, Logan, Peter - (The Pack) - What a beautiful bunch of characters. They each add their own flavours to the story. I would have liked to get to know Logan a bit better but alas his role in the story is one that drove the plot further. 

 

Plot, Pace, Writing style: 4/5  

There is no doubt Kelley writes well and is brilliant at world building.  I enjoyed the history Kelley includes of this story. Her plot was exciting and she tugs at your heart strings with heartbreaking and tender moments. The pace was a little bit slow at some places but Kelley used this to fill us in with some of Elena's past. 

 

The ending was perfect. I love it. The only sad part to me is that there is no Clay and Elena in the next book. Or not from what I can tell in the blurb of book 2. 

 

Cover talk: 3/5 

The cover is OK. It was the colour and the font that drew me to the book in the first place. 


Final Thoughts: 

This was an awesome read and I will definitely be looking into reading the rest of this series.

 

Favourite Quotes

'You know, I couldn't imagine living somewhere without seasons.'

'Yeah?'

'Real seasons, I mean.I couldn't live without spring. Days like today are worth every snowstorm and slush puddle. By March, it seems like winter will never end. All that snow and ice that seemed so wonderful in December is driving you crazy. But you know spring is coming. Every year, you wait for that first warm day, then the next and the next, each better than the last. You can't help but be happy. You forget winter and get the chance to start over. Fresh possibilities.''A fresh start.''Exactly.'~ Elena & Clay

 

 

Author Bio:

Kelley Armstrong has been telling stories since before she could write. Her earliest written efforts were disastrous. If asked for a story about girls and dolls, hers would invariably feature undead girls and evil dolls, much to her teachers' dismay. All efforts to make her produce "normal" stories failed.

Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon. She's the author of the NYT-bestselling "Women of the Otherworld" paranormal suspense series and "Darkest Powers" young adult urban fantasy trilogy, as well as the Nadia Stafford crime series. Armstrong lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and far too many pets. 


Author Links: Gooreads l Website l Twitter

Love

 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/06/book-review-bitten-woto-1-by-kelley.html

Audio Book Review: The Drive-By Wife by Mike Wells

The Drive-By Wife - Mike Wells

Publisher: Smashwords
Publication Date: 06 September 2013
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Source: Author via Audible (In exchange for an honest Review)
Audio or Book: Audiobook
Length: 9 hrs 16 mins
Narrator: Mark Torres

Overview:

In this explosive psychological thriller, Allen and Cynthia Hunt are a well-educated, upper middle-class San Francisco couple who experience the ultimate domestic nightmare. A deranged, seedy truck driver barges into their lives, blackmailing Cynthia into becoming his "drive-by" wife. Billy has led a lonely, bleak existence on the road and has always dreamed of “having him a beautiful, lovin’ woman to come home to.” Unable to go to the police, Allen and Cynthia desperately try to fight off the twisted stalker, who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. But the two have serious problems of their own. The story spirals into a tangle of deceit, deception, and murder. Can Allen and Cynthia unite and defeat the diabolical maniac from the hills, or will he destroy them both?


Previous reviews by Author:
Lust, Money & Murder

My Review:

When Mike contacted me to review this book I was so excited because I absolutely loved his previous audio book I reviewed, and have been a fan of his work since. Mike's LLM audio book was also my first audio book that I received for review and it will always hold a special place in my heart. 

The Drive-by wife was a great listen. Mike starts off with an intriguing captivating scene that gets you intrigued and keeps you listening from the word go. 


Narrator 3/5: 

Mark has a very nice voice to listen too. His flow was steady while reading but I found his transitions to be a bit rough - sometimes within the same chapter. I could hear when it was a different recording as his voice a different pitch when he started the next sentence / paragraph. I think he got more into character as the book went a long. My favourite character he perfomed was Billy, probably because he really differentiated his voice so well compared to Alan and Cynthia. 

 

Characters & Story line: 3.5/5

 

As I have come to expect from Mike, he starts off with a great hook to kick off the book. 

 

The characters are well rounded, each with their own ways which makes them interesting. I enjoyed the character development throughout the book, as Mike peeled away the layers of each character in different ways. 

 

Cynthia & Alan - What an interesting couple. Cynthia is sweet, caring and smart, and Alan just got on my nerves for the first half of the book. I just wanted to smack him over the head and tell him to wake up and see what a gorgeous amazing smart wife he had. The whole mess began because Alan was a workaholic and neglected his wife which led her to be somewhere she should not have been and ended up getting attacked. I think for me, Alan had the most development throughout the story and I really warmed up to him by the end. Cynthia I connected to really easily and her love of books and working in a book store made her that much more awesome to me. Overall Watching them grow as individuals and a couple was an enjoyable journey. 

 

Billy  - I actually really liked Billy in the beginning. I felt so sorry for him initially (even though what he was doing was wrong). Over the course of the story you see how messed up he really is as his true colours started showing. It was quite an emotional roller coaster as I liked him, loathed him, was disgusted by him and then ended up feeling really sorry for him all over again. All in all BIlly is a great and entertaining characters. 

 

Plot & Pace: 3.5/5  

Mike writes romantic suspense quite well and keeps you guessing where the story might go - with a great twist in the last third of the book that I did not see coming. I enjoyed the last 3rd of the book the most. I am not sure if the pace was slow of if Mark just read slowly but I notched up the speed on my audible app to x1.5. The plot was good. I really enjoyed how the story came together at the end and we start to get answers about Billy. 

Cover talk: 2/5 

The cover is OK. I can see the connection to the story elements not after I have listened to the book but it wouldn't initially grab me.

 

Final Thoughts:  

The Drive-by Wife was an enjoyable listen, although I preferred Lust, Money & Murder. This is a great book for people who enjoy suspense with a dash of romance. 

 

Author Bio:

Mike Wells is an American bestselling author of over 20 "unputdownable" thriller and suspense novels, including Lust, Money & Murder and Passion, Power & Sin. He is also known for his young adult books, such as The Mysterious Disappearance of Kurt Kramer, The Wrong Side of the Tracks, and Wild Child, which are used by English teachers in high schools and colleges worldwide. Formerly a screenwriter, Wells has a fast-paced, cinematic writing style. His work is often compared to that of the late Sidney Sheldon, with strong and inspiring female heroes, tightly-written scenes, engaging action/dialogue, and numerous plot twists. He currently lives in Europe and teaches part-time in the Creative Writing program at the University of Oxford.

 

Author LinksGoodreads l Twitter l Facebook l Blog


Love

 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/06/audio-book-review-drive-by-wife-by-mike.html

Mini Book Review: The Crimson Spell (Charmed #3) by F Goldsborough & Constance M Burge

The Crimson Spell - F. Goldsborough, Constance M. Burge

Series: Charmed #3
Publisher: Pocket books
Publication Date: 01 April 2003
Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy
Source: Library
Audio or Book: Book
Length: 181 pages

Overview:

Evil thoughts and dark desires
Boil and burn in a wicked brew!
Throw hate and fear into the fire
May friends and lovers both be true

Prue, Piper, and Phoebe don't know that a coven of warlocks is hunting them. They don't know that one of the warlocks has entered their lives disguised as a friend. And they don't know the coven's mission—to drain them of their magical powers, even if it means destroying them to do it!

Now the Charmed Ones must figure out which of their friends is really their enemy. Because sometimes what you don't know—can kill you.


Previous reviews:
The Power of Three (#1)

Kiss of Darkness (#2)


My Review:

Once again I loved this quick read! I love the adventures of Prue, Piper & Phoebe. Every book I love them more and more. Connection with the characters is easy and you really get drawn into the story. The pace of the story was fast and the storyline was fun. I felt like I was watching the series while reading this book, you know exactly what you are going to get. Prue yearns for friendship, Phoebe yearns for love while Piper tries to be a mentor at a shelter. 


Final Thoughts:
This was a great read. I haven't been disappointed yet!!

 

Love 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/06/mini-book-review-crimson-spell-charmed.html

Book Review: Benton - A Zombie Novel by Jolie du Pré

Benton: A Zombie Novel (Book 1) - Jolie du Pre

Series: A Zombie Novel Volume #1
Publisher: Precious Monster Press
Publication Date: 18 May 2014
Genre: YA, Paranormal, Horror
Source: Chelsea's Author Promotions (In exchange for an honest Review)
Audio or Book: eBook

Overview:
Zombies have killed everyone in the Benton household--all except twenty-something Jennifer. She's escaped her bedroom, but what now? Waterbank, Illinois is overrun. Where can she go?

A chance encounter with seven other young survivors points towards Texas. A charismatic, handsome young man named Mark says he can lead them all to his family's ranch, where he's sure they'll be safe. Jennifer wants to trust him - with her life and possibly her heart.

There's no place else to go, there's no way to escape the zombies but through, and there's no telling if Jennifer and Mark will live long enough to act on the emotions building between them.

My Review:

I wanted to try out a zombie novel for quite some time. I do have some on my TBR pile, and have won a few that are just waiting to be read! When I saw this novel I figured I could squeeze it into my schedule and it really was a quick read! Zombies freak me out... I don't normally touch anything with zombies especially movies, so this was venturing into new territory for me. In some ways, this was a very young read and it fits into the YA category very well. 

Characters & Story line: 2.5/5

I had to do some thinking when it came to this review. Since this is not my normal type of book. I tried to come from a neutral perspective. I felt that the characters needed some development, and I did not always understand what motivated their actions and decisions. 

There was a conversation between Jennifer & Mark about God & religion that seemed a bit out of place. I can understand why it came up but it was just kind of out of the blue and very short and not necessary. 

 

Jennifer - Jennifer is sweet & a survivalist.  I'm not sure if I would stay sane if I saw what she saw and went through what she did. Jennifer needs a little bit fire to her personality. She seems to be a natural at everything.  I want to know more about her as a person, and her history. I don't understand some of the things that she says or decisions that she makes. 

 

Mark is such a sweet character. I liked him. Gary is such an ass. He is the one who got under Jen's skin. Katie is annoying. I think all she does is scream and get paralysed every time she sees a Zombie.

 

Plot, Pace, Writing style: 2.5/5  

The writing style is kind of staccato and doesn't flow smoothly. The pace is good and the plot is interesting, but also a bit predictable in some ways. I would have liked to know more about how the apocalypse happened and just some more story-building in this regard - it is briefly mentioned initially and had such an intriguing unique take on Zombies. I think if this was elaborated on, it would have given the story some 'juice'. 

 

Jolie brings quite a hectic twist into the story near the end, which sort of saved it for me. 

 

Cover talk 4/5: 
I actually really liked this cover. It gives a creepy kick-butt type feel to it. 


Final Thoughts: This was an OK read for a Zombie novel and I would like to know what happens in book 2. 

 

Author Bio:
JOLIE DU PRE is a full-time published author, editor, article writer, blogger, and monster lover. The first book in her zombie series - BENTON: A ZOMBIE NOVEL, VOLUME ONE - is available now at Amazon. ~~ Visit her blog Precious Monsters. Finally, don't forget to " like " Jolie on Facebook.


Author Links: Website l Twitter l Goodreads

Love 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/06/book-review-benton-zombie-novel-by.html

Mini Reviews: The Withering palace (#0.1) & Evangeline (#0.5) - Dark Faerie Tale Novella's

Evangeline - Alexia Purdy

** I read these novella's after I read book 1 - Ever Shade **

~ The Withering Palace ~


Series: A Dark Faerie Tale #0.1
Publication Date: April 2014
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Amazon
Audio or Book: ebook (Part of Anthology)

Overview:

This is Aveta's story.

 

 

Untold darkness rules the Unseelie realm of the Land of Faerie. Hidden in this vast area, Aveta, the future queen of the Unseelie Army perfects her gifts over lifetimes. Learning that magic isn't the only way to manipulate the world around her, this naive girl grows into a woman of strength, cunning and ultimately becomes one of the most feared leaders in Faerie.

 

 

Underneath her hardened exterior, lies a woman who has known the darkest of hearts, the agony of love, the pull of the consuming power coursing through her veins and what it takes to be ruler of the Unseelie within the walls of The Withering Palace.


My Review:

 

Do you ever wonder what happened to a character that made them evil. This is one of those stories. By no means did I think Aveta was a pure soul from the beginning but I do think she was destined to end up the way she did. It was written in her destiny. I do think she had the potential to let go of all the darkness that consumes her but then she wouldn't be the evil queen would she?

 

Alexia transports you back in time beautiful and she quickly sucks you into the tale of Aveta.

 

Final Thoughts: This quick read was enjoyable and heartbreaking. 

 

My Rating:

4 stars

 

~ Evangeline ~

 

Series: A Dark Faerie Tale #0.5

Publication Date: 15 September 2012
Publisher: Crushing Hearts & Black Butterfly Publishing
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Amazon
Audio or Book: ebook
Length: 29 pages

Overview:
The Land of Faerie is calling. 

There are places unknown, magic lures you in and love spans lifetimes. 
Don't resist. It's in the blood...
Evangeline is a short story prequel to Ever Shade.


My Review:

Evangeline is a great prequel that helps put a few puzzle pieces together for you with regards to Evie & Shade. It doesn't explain how Evangeline ended up with the Unseelie, but it does help understand where her heartache began. 

 

I laughed when I saw where her latest nickname came from. It went from Evie to Vange in Ever Shade. 

 

I am not sure if it holds any future significance but it feels like I know a secret about Shade that is yet to be revealed!!

 

Final Thoughts:  Evangeline is a great quick prequel read!

 

My Rating:

3.5 / 5 stars

 

Author Bio:

 

Alexia currently lives in Las Vegas, Nevada–Sin City! She loves to spend every free moment writing or playing with her four rambunctious kids. Writing has always been her dream and she has been writing ever since she can remember. She loves writing paranormal fantasy and poetry and devours books daily. Alexia also enjoys watching movies, dancing, singing loudly in the car and Italian food. 


Author Links: Website l Twitter l Goodreads

Love

 

Chanzie

 

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/06/mini-reviews-withering-palace-01.html

Book Review: Son of Set (Descendants of Isis #2) by Kelsey Ketch

Son of Set - Kelsey Ketch

So I know my review is a little late but OH MY GOODNESS... this book is worth it! I reviewed book 1 on Monday and totally fell in love with this series... 

 

Series: Descendants of Isis #2
Publication Date: 02 May 2014
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy
Source: Dark World Books (In exchange for an honest Review)
Audio or Book: ebook
Length: 292 pages

 

Overview:

 

“. . . the Sons would never just let him go—alive.”


Seth O’Keefe has broken the laws of his god. He never thought he would sacrifice his own future to protect a Daughter of Isis. But when the Sons of Set discovered Natti is the Secret Keeper, he had no choice. Now, Seth and Natti are on the run from his father, who wants nothing more than to see Seth dead. With no allies, Seth turns to the Daughters of Isis for help, hoping they would protect Natti. But when they meet the Daughters, he discovers a secret that puts both their lives in more danger. Low on options, Seth sees only one possibility for survival. He must help Natti solve an ancient puzzle and find the secret name of Ra. 

 

Natara “Natti” Stone is having a hard time swallowing the truth. She can’t believe what she has learned in the past twenty-four hours: Seth is a Son of Set blessed with charm; she is a Daughter of Isis blessed with a sliver of Ma ‘at; the locket her grandmother gave her holds an ancient Egyptian secret linking to Osiris and Isis. That along with being tortured and brutalized by the Sons of Set, she can hardly hold herself together. Thank God for Seth’s touch! That warm, tingling sensation that drowns it all out. Yet her heart struggles to stay focused. She must quickly embrace her destiny before the secret name of Ra falls into the wrong hands.

 

*Note: Content for Upper YA*


Previous Review: 
Daughter of Isis (#1)

 

*Please note:There might be spoilers for book 1 in this review I will try my best to avoid them*

 

This book was AMAZING.... It was so good I have already tweeted to find out when the final book, The Name of RA, is going to be released. This book has everything in it: friendship, love, loyalty, heart-break, adventure, puzzles, challenges and so much more. 


Characters & Storyline: 5/5

Son of Set picks up right where Daughter of Isis ended. You dive right into Seth and Natti being on the run - things are tense and there are so many unanswered questions floating around. 

 

Seth and Natti are stuck with each other. Seth realises over the course of the story exactly what he feels for Natti and Natti is trying to figure out what is going on, what she feels and if it is real or just Seth's charm swirling around in her head and heart. 

 

I really felt like we got a lot more from Natti this time round. Things are tense between her and Seth, which keeps it exciting! Kelsey tugs at your heart strings at every step of this journey and you cannot help but fall in love with these characters every step of the way. 

 

Seth is such an amazing swoon-worth character that he deserves his own little segment... He has grown so much and has sacrificed more than we realise initially! He stole my heart in this book and I think Kelsey has a few secrets and twists up her sleeve. 

 

Natti is an amazing character! I connected with her so easily and loved her from the beginning. She is reasonable, reliable and honest. Natti really starts coming into her 'role' from about half way through the book and I cannot wait to see where this goes in 'The Name of Ra'. 

 

Plot, Pace, Writing style: 5/5  

The plot is intense and the pace is perfect. Kelsey has an easy writing style that just sucks you in at every turn. I can definitely see and appreciate how much hard work and research went into this series. Kelsey has such a beautiful way of weaving the Egyptian mythology theme with the modern day storyline. Kelsey throws in so many great twists that keep you on the edge of your seat!

The ending... wow... it had me going: YES FINALLY! 

 

Cover talk: 5/5 
I love the covers in this series. The cover models are exactly how I picture Seth & Natti. Hmm wonder who will be on the next cover... both of them?


Final Thoughts: 
This is an awesome series and has definitely made my list of top reads for 2014 so far. If you love Egyptian Mythology and adventure.. Get this series now!!!


Author Bio:
During her high school years, Kelsey Ketch could always be found tucked away in a little corner of the hall or classroom, writing her fantasy worlds and creating illustrations and maps. Today is no different, except now she’s writing in the break room at her office building or at the tables of the Barnes and Noble Café in Cary, North Carolina. She is also an avid reader, a part-time book blogger at Ketch’s Book Nook, and lives with her two orange tabbies and awesome and humorous flat-mate. Daughter of Isis is her debut novel.

Author Links: Goodreads l Website l twitter


Love

 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/06/book-review-son-of-set-descendants-of.html
Reblogged from Tired of Spamlikes :

Topic of Light Book Review: Angels of Abundance by Doreen Virtue and Grant Virtue

Angels of Abundance: Heaven's 11 Messages to Help You Manifest Support, Supply and Every Form of Abundance - Grant Virtue, Doreen Virtue

Publisher: Hay House Publishing
Publication Date: 01 May 2014
Genre: Motivational, Spiritual
Source: NetGalley / Publisher 
(In exchange for an honest Review)
Audio or Book: eBook
Length: 224 pages

Overview:
In their travels around the globe, Doreen Virtue and her son Grant (the best-selling authors of Angel Words) have met thousands of talented people who dream of being healers, spiritual teachers, or writers, or of opening healing centers or schools. They also long to be able to afford organic food, vitamin supplements, exercise instruction, trips to spiritual power places, and wonderful homes. However, they don’t move forward because they don’t understand how to attract the financial resources that are the basis for how the physical world operates.

Doreen and Grant wrote this book to show you how Heaven can give you material and emotional support as you strive to attain your life purpose and manifest everything you desire. Each of the 11 chapters features a message from the Angels of Abundance—the specialty angels who ensure that your Divine mission here on Earth isn’t hampered by lack. Whether you wish to have more money, time, ideas, or opportunities, the Angels of Abundance will hold your hand and help you over the hurdles that have kept you from realizing your dreams—until now!

 

Angels of Abundance is a really great feel good book, and one that I'm sure I will read a few times in my life, when I need to get back onto the motivational manifestation path. This is a great book for reminders when getting back to basics, or for a beginner's read. 

I enjoyed the messages that Doreen and Grant gave, as well as the gentle reminders of the simpler steps in manifesting abundance - like remembering to ask for help! You wouldn't believe how often this simple tip is forgotten. We always think we are alone and have to carry our loads by ourselves, but we don't...  

 

All the tips and messages are easy to relate to, follow, and implement into your life. Whether you have 5 minutes to spend a day or an hour, these tips are great. You can read this book beginning to end in one sitting ,or a chapter at a time from week to week. 

 

Final Thoughts: 

This is a great, light read and easy to connect to - whether it is a new concept to you or a refresher read. This is definitely a book I would like to add as a physical copy to my book shelf. 


Love

 

Chanzie

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/06/topic-of-light-book-review-angels-of.html

Tour Stop: Guest Post, Giveaway & Book Reviews: Daughter of Isis (#1) & Son of Set (#2) by Kelsey Ketch

Daughter of Isis - Kelsey Ketch

Series: Descendants of Isis #1

Publication Date: 26 October 2013

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy

Source: Dark World Books (In exchange for an honest Review)

Audio or Book: ebook

Length: 272 pages


Overview:

“Her mouth parted slightly, waiting for Seth to breathe life into her own body, just like in the story. She wanted him to awaken her senses.”

 

 

Their worlds collide in California’s high desert.

 

The last thing Natara “Natti” Stone wants to do is to start anew at Setemple High School. She wished she had never left London. Yet the brutal murder of her maternal grandmother has made her life very complicated. The only clue related to her murder is an ancient, encrypted necklace Natti discovered after her grandmother’s death. And if trying to adjust to American life is not enough, Natti is being stalked by a mysterious, charming high school senior, Seth O’Keefe, who is annoyingly persistent in his attempts at seduction.

 

 

 

Seth O’Keefe is secretly a member of the Sons of Set, an order that worships the Egyptian god of chaos. Seth’s blessing from Set, his “charm,” never failed, except with one person: Natti Stone. Her ability to elude him infatuates and infuriates him, and he becomes obsessed with the chase. But the closer he gets to her, the more his emotions take a dangerous turn, and he risks breaking one of the most valued covenants of his order. The punishment for which is a fate worse than death.

 

The adventure this unlikely couple becomes engulfed in could cost them their lives and their souls.

 

 

 

*Note: Content for Upper YA*

 

Official Trilogy Book Trailer

 

 

 

 

 

 


My Review:

Wow what a book! I first saw The Daughter of Isis a while ago and though, I must try read this book sometime. Then I saw the tour for Son of Set and jumped at the opportunity to be a part of the tour! I love books with strong Egyptian themes and this book did not disappoint. 

 

Characters & Storyline: 4/5

Kelsey does a wonderful job creating unique, strong and interesting characters. Natti & Seth were the most well developed out of all the characters. They were easy to connect to and care about. I enjoyed the fact that Natti could resist Seth's charm and see what a jerk he was initially, but I also enjoyed the fact that she could see the person beyond the facade. I was initially a bit frustrated that Natti knew so little about her heritage but it is definitely worth the wait to find out more. I do wonder why her grandmother did not leave her more answers and hope to find out more in the next book. Seth is totally swoon-worthy and the story has so many memorable moments. Natti is feisty - I love british persona and humor that she brings to the story. She is smart, quick and observant.  

 

The storyline was captivating and you couldn't help but get caught up in the story! 

 

Plot, Pace, Writing style: 4/5  

The plot was great and the pace was perfect. Kelsey has an easy and enticing writing style and really does a great job bringing this story to life. Kelsey ends with so much suspense that I am so glad i can just pick up Son of Set and see what happens next!

 

Cover talk: 5/5 

What a gorgeous cover! It did catch my attention when I first saw it and I  definitely would have picked this one up in a book store!


Final Thoughts: 

This is possibly the best Egyptian theme book I have read so far and that is huge since I really have high expectations from books like this. If you love mythology.. get this book now!

 

My Rating:

 

 

 

 

 

Series: Descendants of Isis #2
Publication Date: 02 May 2014
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Fantasy
Source: Dark World Books (In exchange for an honest Review)
Audio or Book: ebook
Length: 292 pages

 

 

Overview:

 

“. . . the Sons would never just let him go—alive.”

 

 

Seth O’Keefe has broken the laws of his god. He never thought he would sacrifice his own future to protect a Daughter of Isis. But when the Sons of Set discovered Natti is the Secret Keeper, he had no choice. Now, Seth and Natti are on the run from his father, who wants nothing more than to see Seth dead. With no allies, Seth turns to the Daughters of Isis for help, hoping they would protect Natti. But when they meet the Daughters, he discovers a secret that puts both their lives in more danger. Low on options, Seth sees only one possibility for survival. He must help Natti solve an ancient puzzle and find the secret name of Ra. 

 

Natara “Natti” Stone is having a hard time swallowing the truth. She can’t believe what she has learned in the past twenty-four hours: Seth is a Son of Set blessed with charm; she is a Daughter of Isis blessed with a sliver of Ma ‘at; the locket her grandmother gave her holds an ancient Egyptian secret linking to Osiris and Isis. That along with being tortured and brutalized by the Sons of Set, she can hardly hold herself together. Thank God for Seth’s touch! That warm, tingling sensation that drowns it all out. Yet her heart struggles to stay focused. She must quickly embrace her destiny before the secret name of Ra falls into the wrong hands.

 

 

 

*Note: Content for Upper YA*

 

 

 

 

 

I haven't quite finished the book in time for this post but I can tell you it is just as good and exciting! Seth and Natti are now on the run and Son of Set is full of exciting steamy moments, tender ones that make you heart melt as well and quite a few surprises! 

 

Guest Post: The Influence of Dreams

 

I’m in my old high school, after hours. My old backpack hangs over one shoulder as I walk through the familiar halls. The school is completely empty, just how I like it. I would usually find a little hidden nook to do homework, or sketch, or write. Easy-peasy. I know this place like the back of my hand.

 

So why can’t I find the exit?

 

I pass through several classrooms and even several bathrooms, but there aren’t any doors leading to the outside. Not even the enclosed courtyard! And the halls are starting to lead into dead ends I never knew existed.

 

It was like the school was becoming a labyrinth.  

 

I finally stumble to my locker, which is weird. I don’t remember it being across from the girl gym lockers before, but at least it’s something familiar. I go to open it, entering a random combination I seem to know by heart, when sudden I’m pulled away and forced to turn around.

 

A boy stands in front of me. I know him as someone I don’t like or trust. Yet his smile, I can’t seem to pull my vision away from it as he talks too rapidly for me to understand a single word he says. Besides, I’m too freaked by how close he is to me. He’s definitely in my personal space, but I don’t know how to feel about it. Should I just go with it? Should I shove him away? Maybe even kick him in the balls? Before I can make a decision, his lips are on mine in an awkward kiss, which sends my head spinning. My entire body cringes, and nausea take hold of my stomach.

 

Unfortunately, I’m also paralyzed. My brain has completely shut down for some unknown reason and I just can’t think straight. I watch him pull away with a gleeful grin, holding my backpack in his hand, and still, I don’t move. I know I should yell, shout, maybe even tackle him, but I’m still in shock from the kiss that still tingles my lips.

 

I watch him take off with my things and the next thing I realize is I’m on the floor, the entire building on fire around me. I call for help, but my throat is too dry and too sore to even cry a harsh whisper. I cough, try get to my knees and crawl, only to collapse again. I can’t get out. I have no clue where I am or where an exit might be. So I let myself fall back to the floor, praying for someone—anyone—to help.

 

What I didn’t expect was see the boy who just used a kiss to deceive me. He kneels over me, speaking once again. I think he’s even saying my name, but I can’t make it out. I head is too fogged over to concentrate. I can only tell by his expression that he’s in a panic as he desperately tries to pull me to my feet. Yet my body has already given up the fight. So, in a last ditch effort, he lifts me up and carries me out, finding the exit which I had failed to find before . . .

 

Dreams are such funny thing. Not only do they reveal truths about your thought process—which in that case, I’m sure Sigmund Fraud would’ve loved me as a case study—but they help inspire the imagination.

 

To those who have read Daughter of Isis already, this dream actually should sound somewhat familiar. In fact, it’s the one that started it all. This is the first scene I ever wrote for the Descendant of Isis Series before the concept was even fully developed. Interesting, right? I mean, who would’ve guess that a full trilogy could stem from just this one dream?

 

Yet it did, and it wasn’t so much the dream itself that captured my attention. These sorts of dreams (labyrinths, feeling lost or chased by some sort of danger, never finding a way out, being an inch from death before waking up) are typical for me. I still get them, even today. But there was one new anomaly I couldn’t get out of my head: the boy who saved me.

 

I’m sure my dream books could have told me what it meant, but honestly, I wasn’t interested in the meaning of the dream. I was interested in the boy’s backstory. Apparently, I knew who he was in my dream, but I wanted to know who he really was? What was he looking for in my things? And why come back to rescue me after he had clearly gotten what he wanted?

 

Slowly, I started answering my own questions, writing them in a journal. The story just blossomed from there. A day later, I brought in the Isis and Osiris story into play, along with the tale of Ra’s secret name. Kind of amazing, really. I never had a book hit me quite like this one. All because of a boy—one I obviously didn’t fully like, ironically—in a dream. 

 

 

 

Author Bio:

During her high school years, Kelsey Ketch could always be found tucked away in a little corner of the hall or classroom, writing her fantasy worlds and creating illustrations and maps. Today is no different, except now she’s writing in the break room at her office building or at the tables of the Barnes and Noble Café in Cary, North Carolina. She is also an avid reader, a part-time book blogger at Ketch’s Book Nook, and lives with her two orange tabbies and awesome and humorous flat-mate. Daughter of Isis is her debut novel.

 

Author Links: Goodreads l Website l twitter

 

 

 



Love

 

Chanzie

 

Source: http://meanwhoyouare.blogspot.com/2014/06/tour-stop-guest-post-giveaway-book.html