Barbara Ann RS's Posts - Literary Addicts2024-03-28T21:57:19ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRShttps://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2996448857?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1https://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=1wupzlnjb98nh&xn_auth=noReview of The 5th Wave by Rick Yanceytag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-11-03:6621382:BlogPost:616402014-11-03T21:11:16.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><i>The 5<sup>th</sup> Wave</i> has received much praise since its release, and after finishing the book, I can say that praise is well-deserved. This is one of the best young adult novels I’ve read, blending elements of post-apocalyptic, dystopia, and science fiction into one adventurous, provocative, and suspensefully gripping reading experience.</p>
<p>When the story begins, aliens or “Others” have already invaded Earth, and their attacks have come in Waves. When the novel opens, readers…</p>
<p><i>The 5<sup>th</sup> Wave</i> has received much praise since its release, and after finishing the book, I can say that praise is well-deserved. This is one of the best young adult novels I’ve read, blending elements of post-apocalyptic, dystopia, and science fiction into one adventurous, provocative, and suspensefully gripping reading experience.</p>
<p>When the story begins, aliens or “Others” have already invaded Earth, and their attacks have come in Waves. When the novel opens, readers learn four Waves have occurred thus far. The 1st Wave was similar to an EMP taking out the power; the 2nd Wave brought an influx of natural disasters; the 3rd Wave was in the form of a deadly airborne virus; and the 4<sup>th</sup> Wave created dissension and distrust among those who’ve survived so far. </p>
<p>I think it’s sickeningly effective that the aliens use multiple means of assault, each Wave more terrifying than the last, to keep humans confused and off balance. It also leaves readers wondering about the aliens’ ultimate objective. Do they want to annihilate all humans? Enslave them? This is just one of several mysteries Yancey builds into the plot that kept me turning the pages. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Yancey has done an excellent job in creating a cast of well-rounded, dynamic main characters who are presented with daunting moral dilemmas that will test their humanity over and over again. When readers are introduced to the protagonist, Cassie Sullivan, she’s all alone, hiding from the Others and searching for her younger brother, Sammy, who was taken into “protective custody” along with other youth by the military. Her motto is to trust no one and stay alone: <strong>“In the 4<sup>th</sup> Wave, you can’t trust that people are still people. But you can trust that your gun is still your gun.” </strong></p>
<p>Cassie is on my list of favorite YA heroines. Before the aliens arrived, she was an average teenage girl whose life was filled with the typical angst most adolescents experience, trying to fit in with her peers and get the attention of a popular boy she’s had a crush on for years. Now, after everything that has happened, Cassie has become cynical and hardened. I knew I was going to like her in the first paragraph when she describes how naïve everyone was about the aliens when they first attacked:</p>
<p><strong>“Forget about flying saucers and little green men and giant mechanical spiders spitting out death rays. Forget about epic battles with tanks and fighter jets and the final victory of us scrappy, unbroken, intrepid humans over the bug-eyed swarm. That’s about as far from the truth as their dying planet was from our living one.</strong></p>
<p><strong>The truth is, once they found us, we were toast.” </strong></p>
<p>I like Cassie’s realistic perspective and wry attitude. For the most part, she’s logical and practical. Her cautiousness and distrust of others is easily understandable after all that she has experienced. Cassie’s POV reveals her introspective and intuitive nature. Her internal monologues are effective in helping me, the reader, understand her struggles to hold on to her humanity and her sanity in the face of overwhelming obstacles. </p>
<p>What I most admire about Cassie is her ability to harness her fears and keep moving forward in her quest to find Sammy. It’s in the midst of these extraordinary events that have taken everything she loves from her that Cassie realizes how strong and courageous she can be:</p>
<p><strong>“I might be – no, I probably am-doomed.</strong></p>
<p><strong>But if I’m it, the last of my kind, the last page of human history, like hell I’m going to let the story end this way.</strong></p>
<p><strong>I may be the last one, but I am the one still standing. I am the one turning to face the faceless hunter in the woods on an abandoned highway. I am the one not running, not staying, but facing.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Because if I am the last one, then I am humanity.</strong></p>
<p><strong>And if this is humanity’s last war, then I am the battlefield.”</strong></p>
<p>Cassie’s POV is not the only one readers are given as the plot unfolds. Ben Parrish aka “Zombie” narrates the events that occur at “Camp Heaven,” an ironic name for this sinister military camp where teens and youngsters have been rounded up and are being trained to fight the enemy. In addition, I also appreciated getting the perspective of one of the alien “Silencers,” an assassin hunting humans and the moral struggles he faces since infiltration onto Earth required him to become “human” first. These multiple perspectives, though limited in their scope of understanding of the big picture, do give readers greater insight into the frightening post-apocalyptic world Yancey has created.</p>
<p>What makes this book such an outstanding read is that Yancey cleverly flips everything these main characters think they know to reveal an even darker more cunning assault: the 5<sup>th</sup> Wave. Ben effectively sums up the shock of this discovery:</p>
<p><strong>“I feel myself falling into a completely different kind of wonderland, where up is down and true is false and the enemy has two faces, my face and his, the one who save me from drowning, who took my heart and made it a battlefield.”</strong></p>
<p>Just like the onslaught of Waves the aliens have inflicted upon humans, readers slowly become awash in a wave of surprising and horrifying truths.</p>
<p>My only quibble with the book is the romantic angle in Cassie and Evan’s relationship. What I see as merely a crush gets elevated to a more significant status too quickly. However, this is minor in comparison to all the other aspects that make this book so fantastic. It’s a novel that delves into themes of endurance, self-preservation and sacrifice, and the fight to hold on to one’s humanity as it’s slowly being stripped away. </p>
<p> Link to Blog Post: <a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/11/03/review-of-the-5th-wave-by-">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/11/03/review-of-the-5th-wave-by-</a></p>
<p> </p>Review of The Litter of the Law by Rita Mae Brown & Sneaky Pie Browntag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-10-04:6621382:BlogPost:597852014-10-04T16:52:39.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>One way I can become immersed in the beauty of autumn is through books, vicariously experiencing the season through the story’s setting and characters. One of those novels that does exactly this is Rita Mae Brown’s <i>The Litter of the Law</i>. The series is set in a small rural farming community called Crozet, Virginia, which is also a real town. <i>The</i> <i>Litter of the Law</i> takes place in October and centers on the protagonist, Mary Minor Haristeen or “Harry” who finds herself…</p>
<p>One way I can become immersed in the beauty of autumn is through books, vicariously experiencing the season through the story’s setting and characters. One of those novels that does exactly this is Rita Mae Brown’s <i>The Litter of the Law</i>. The series is set in a small rural farming community called Crozet, Virginia, which is also a real town. <i>The</i> <i>Litter of the Law</i> takes place in October and centers on the protagonist, Mary Minor Haristeen or “Harry” who finds herself caught up in solving a series of bizarre murders as Halloween approaches. However, Harry isn’t the only one doing some sleuthing. Her loyal, loving four-legged feline companions, Mrs. Murphy and Pewter, along with Tee Tucker the corgi are right there beside her, helping to find clues and providing backup in case it’s needed. This little band of quirky sidekicks provides an additional layer of amusement as readers can’t help but get caught up in their non-human, often entertaining, bickering and teasing.</p>
<p>This is the first book I’ve read in the series, and although it can stand alone, I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had started the series from the beginning. The author has created an entire detailed fictional community with <u>lots</u> of characters, townspeople, who have ongoing roles in each installment. Brown does provide a list of the “Cast of Characters” at the beginning of the book to explain each character’s connection to Harry and her family and/or their relevance to the plot. However, trying to remember who‘s who overwhelmed me at times and became a distraction from my enjoying the crux of the book: Harry’s search to discover why people are being murdered in her quiet, little close-knit community.</p>
<p>If I followed the series, I may have been more interested in the chit chat that occurs about various characters in the book even though they aren’t involved in this particular plot. This slowed the pacing of the story and I was bored by some of these non-relevant conversations. However, when I wasn’t distracted by these aspects of the book, I did enjoy trying to connect the clues Harry and the others discover in the scenes leading up to my favorite part of the book: the annual Halloween Hayride. The climax was suspenseful and I wasn’t completely sure who the guilty party was until an elaborate scheme is exposed. Of course, Harry and her entourage prove themselves as worthy heroes by the book’s conclusion.</p>
<p>Another aspect of the plot I really enjoyed is the author’s inclusion of the plight of the Monocan people, Native Americans of Virginia who had been stripped of their rights when the state of Virginia refused to officially recognize this indigenous tribe. The author incorporates their struggles into the plot smoothly and effectively, adding an additional layer of interest to the story.</p>
<p>If you like reading cozy mysteries, then I would recommend checking out this series because, as Brown says, “It takes a cat to write the purr-fect mystery.”</p>
<p>Source: I received a copy of this book from the publisher to provide an honest review.</p>
<p>Link to Blog Post</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/10/04/welcome-to-autumn-a-review-of-the-litter-of-the-law-mrs-murphy-21/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/10/04/welcome-to-autumn-a-review-of-the-litter-of-the-law-mrs-murphy-21/</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Review of The Bully of Order by Brian Harttag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-10-03:6621382:BlogPost:598402014-10-03T13:48:47.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><span>One of the reasons I chose to read this book is because of its setting and time period. The story takes place in the late 1800's in the Pacific Northwest, and Hart paints a vivid verbal picture of the harsh conditions the characters in a mill town called "The Harbor" face daily in their efforts to earn a living and make a home for themselves. In the first chapter, readers are warned about and welcomed into this callous fictionalized by one of the main characters, Jacob…</span></p>
<p><span>One of the reasons I chose to read this book is because of its setting and time period. The story takes place in the late 1800's in the Pacific Northwest, and Hart paints a vivid verbal picture of the harsh conditions the characters in a mill town called "The Harbor" face daily in their efforts to earn a living and make a home for themselves. In the first chapter, readers are warned about and welcomed into this callous fictionalized by one of the main characters, Jacob Ellstrom: <strong>“A body is a mob, a convulsion, an orgasm of destitute rabble. List to it breathe. Feed it. Keep it appeased, always. It’s written on the wall: The Harbor Welcomes You."</strong></span></p>
<p><span>Hart does a great job of immersing readers into the hustle and bustle of a community where men toil long hours in the sawmills, sailors cause a ruckus, and criminal activity abounds. Part of what makes the world-building so effective is that the story is narrated by multiple characters giving readers a wider lens to peer into this gritty, cold, and brutal world and the lives that crumble under its weight. The pages are filled with betrayal, murder, heart-break, and remorse. </span></p>
<p><span>The two different types of POVs used to tell the story are another aspect of the book that I found interesting. Each chapter of the story is narrated from a particular character’s perspective, and Hart uses a first person POV to give Jacob, his wife Nell, and their child, Duncan a voice. By using a first-person POV, Hart invites readers to connect on a deeper emotional level with this family. However, when the story’s viewpoint shifts to other characters in the community, the author uses a third-person limited omniscient POV creating some distance between the reader and the character. Why the switch? Perhaps to emphasize that the members of the Ellstrom family are the central characters that drive the story.</span></p>
<p><span>Hart has created a cast of flawed characters from a range of socio-economic classes whose lives intersect in indelible ways that are often spurred by weakness, desperation, and violence. I didn’t care for many of these characters although I was interested in their backstories and what lay in store for them as the plot progressed. It’s hard to connect with self-centered characters whose greed and brutality overshadow any redeeming traits they might have. However, I don’t see this as a weakness in Hart’s character development. I think his intention is to show how hardened and indifferent people can become living in this environment.</span></p>
<p><span>Since the novel’s focus is on Jacob Ellstrom’s family, I really tried to like to empathize with their characters and their quest to start a new life together in The Harbor. While I was saddened to see their family fall apart, I didn’t feel much sympathy for Jacob or his wife, Nell. Jacob is a charlatan, posing as medical doctor building his practice and his place in the community from a foundation of lies. He is a weak man willing to abandon his wife and baby to save himself instead of taking a stand and protecting his family. Although Nell is a victim in many ways, she also makes poor choices that cause me to lose any sympathy I might have had for her. Their young son Duncan is the one who pays the price for his parents’ cowardice. He grows to be a rebellious, angry young man, quick to lash out at others, even those few who try to offer support. However, no matter how difficult his childhood was, it doesn’t excuse his misdeeds. All in all, I didn’t respect any of these characters. Loyalty, even within families, is scarce or non-existent.</span></p>
<p><span>Hart delves into the conflicts and failures of father-son relationships not only with Jacob and Duncan, but also with Matius and Jonas, and Mr. Boyerton and his son, Oliver. The author explores the depth of each son’s deep-seated anger and the triggers that bring it to light. Duncan’s hatred of his father and the inner turmoil he experiences because of it is the most apparent in the book and is examined with brutal honesty.</span></p>
<p><span>Hart also explores themes of forgiveness and redemption that make this a thought-provoking read. The story has a nebulous resolution, leaving the reader to speculate about what happens to some of the central characters and what their future might hold for them. Usually, I like clear, tidy endings, but in this case, I think it’s appropriate for each individual reader to decide what happens to the characters at the end. I’m sure readers will have mixed and varied opinions about what type of resolution these characters deserve.</span></p>
<p><span>Overall, reading the book was a slow but engaging experience for me. At times, I wondered about the inclusion of some scenes and their relevance to the overall plot. In some places, the author uses flashbacks to help the reader understand a character’s motivations, but the transitions to the past events aren’t always smooth. Some of the more emotionally explosive and dangerous scenes lacked the suspense and intensity I anticipated and were somewhat anticlimactic for me. Despite these shortcomings, I would recommend the book to those who enjoy historical fiction and aren’t put off by the story’s dark atmosphere.</span></p>
<p><span>Source: I received an ARC of this book from the author to provide an honest review. </span></p>
<p><span> Link to Blog Post</span></p>
<p><span><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/09/30/retribution-and-redemption-a-review-of-the-bully-of-order/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/09/30/retribution-and-redemption-a-review-of-the-bully-of-order/</a></span></p>
<p><span> </span></p>Review of The Angel of Losses by Stephanie Feldmantag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-09-16:6621382:BlogPost:576792014-09-16T05:40:14.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p> <i>The</i> <i>Angel of Losses</i> is a creative mix of fantasy, Jewish folklore, and history blended together and secretly embedded into the ancestry of one modern-day family. The plot explores the significance of family bonds, love, sacrifice, and the need for redemption. Feldman packs a lot of subject matter into this book, so it is not a light, easy read.</p>
<p> In a nutshell, it’s a multi-layered novel that begins in the present with Marjorie’s quest to uncover the truth about her…</p>
<p> <i>The</i> <i>Angel of Losses</i> is a creative mix of fantasy, Jewish folklore, and history blended together and secretly embedded into the ancestry of one modern-day family. The plot explores the significance of family bonds, love, sacrifice, and the need for redemption. Feldman packs a lot of subject matter into this book, so it is not a light, easy read.</p>
<p> In a nutshell, it’s a multi-layered novel that begins in the present with Marjorie’s quest to uncover the truth about her grandfather Eli’s past and the mystery behind their family’s legacy. Nestled within this overarching plot are four inter-related folktales about a fictitious White Rebbe (a Jewish Rabbi/guru) and the Angel of Losses who shadows him through life. The folktales are based on the various myths about the Wandering Jew found throughout history. Other aspects of Jewish folklore are woven into the novel as well, such as mysticism and the lost tribes of Israel. Overall, Feldman does a good job in alternating between Marjorie’s story and the folktales about the White Rebbe. There were some places where I wasn’t clear about the shift in time from present to past events, and this occurred primarily when Marjorie reminisces about the close relationship she once had with Holly and their grandfather.</p>
<p>I really had to concentrate when I read this book, and sometimes I even had to back track and re-read scenes to try to understand the relevance of Eli’s secret folktales and their impact on Marjorie and Holly’s family. In the latter part of the book, the connections become clearer to me, but I’m still left with some questions and fuzziness about the long-term effects of Marjorie’s and Nathan’s decisions in their efforts to save the baby. The author gives just enough background about the myths and legends to motivate me to continue reading, but I always felt I was just on the edge of understanding, always wondering if I missed a clue or overlooked an important detail. </p>
<p>Once I finished the book, I did do some research into various interpretations of the Wandering Jew and was surprised by how many stories, poems, and ballads have been written about this legendary figure. I think I could read this book multiple times and continue to find new aspects to consider. The novel would make for a great discussion because of its ambiguity in some areas, but it may not be a book that would appeal to everyone.</p>
<p>What I enjoyed most about the book are the White Rebbie folktales in and of themselves. They are lively, engrossing, and, at times, heartbreaking. Feldman’s gift for storytelling is at its strongest in these supernatural tales about a young Solomon trying to outrun his destiny to become a White Rebbe and the toll it takes on his mind body, and family. Through these tales, Feldman raises an important question: Can we ever fully escape our past?</p>
<p>A second aspect that made the book so enjoyable is the struggle Marjorie and Holly have to try and regain the emotional distance that now separates them. It’s hard to accept that people grow and change no matter how hard we may want them to stay just as they are, and I can empathize with the frustration Marjorie feels whenever she tries to have a conversation with Holly. Feldman does a very good job in depicting their struggles to accept and forgive each other.</p>
<p>If you like adult fantasy and want a story full of magic and mystery, consider reading this imaginative retelling of the Wandering Jew.</p>
<p>Source: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to provide an honest review. </p>
<p>Link to Blog Post</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/09/15/review-of-the-angel-of-losses/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/09/15/review-of-the-angel-of-losses/</a></p>Review of Convicted by Dee Tenoriotag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-09-14:6621382:BlogPost:575422014-09-14T04:09:24.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>I was drawn to this book because it centered on the DEA and local law enforcement banding together to take down a lawless motorcycle club and, in the midst of this joint effort, an unlikely friendship between undercover DEA agent Katrina Killian and Deputy Cade Evigan blossoms into a romance. Overall, I enjoyed the romantic aspect of the book but was disappointed in some respects by the level of action and suspense.</p>
<p>One of the most surprising parts of the book for me is the reversal…</p>
<p>I was drawn to this book because it centered on the DEA and local law enforcement banding together to take down a lawless motorcycle club and, in the midst of this joint effort, an unlikely friendship between undercover DEA agent Katrina Killian and Deputy Cade Evigan blossoms into a romance. Overall, I enjoyed the romantic aspect of the book but was disappointed in some respects by the level of action and suspense.</p>
<p>One of the most surprising parts of the book for me is the reversal in roles between the hero and heroine. In creating Cade’s character, Tenorio breaks from the traditional heroic stereotype of a take-charge dominant alpha male who becomes uber-protective over the heroine he is charged to protect. Cade suffers from PTSD and is only in town because he couldn’t say no to former marine teammate Rick’s request to help maintain law and order in a community under the stronghold of the Wheels of Pain MC. Cade is extremely quiet, private, distant, and brooding, all characteristics I would expect from a man who feels emotionally broken. What’s unusual is that he’s not the hero who comes charging in to save the day and who actively pursues the heroine.</p>
<p>Instead, Katrina is the one aggressively pursuing Cade. She isn’t shy nor does she worry about getting too close to the handsome Cade, who quietly exudes a power and control that draws her to him. In fact, she’s downright brazen about her interest in him. Her straightforward, sometimes jaw-dropping assertions startle Cade and initially caught me off guard as well. Although some readers may not like such a bold heroine, and I’m not sure I do either, I do believe her behavior is exactly what is needed to break down the emotional barriers Cade has erected to protect himself. No matter how hard Cade tries to push her away, Katrina refuses to be deterred. Slowly, she inches her way into Cade’s life and their love story progresses over a period of months. This span in time was integral in helping me believe their romance is genuine. Cade has been emotionally shut down for so long that it would be hard for me to accept a romance developing too quickly.</p>
<p>By narrating the story from both the Cade’s and Katrina’s POVs, the author makes the characters’ inner struggles just as prominent as the main external conflicts involving the MC club. Both characters have arcs that reflect their growth over the course of the story, but Cade’s arc is much more dramatic. Cade doesn’t know that Katrina is working undercover to bring down the MC run by a brutal, violent and unscrupulous leader, and he is conflicted about getting involved with someone who seemingly doesn’t mind living and working along with this gang of criminals. Similarly, although Katrina is genuinely interested in getting to know Cade, she feels guilty that she’s deceiving him and that, when he learns the truth, he may resent her and put both their lives in jeopardy. Yet, no matter how strong her feelings for Cade become, I admire her willingness to sacrifice her personal happiness to keep her cover and put a stop to the MC’s illegal activities. Katrina grew up in this MC, which is why she is so easily accepted by the club. Furthermore, she’s seen firsthand all the people who have been hurt and terrorized by this club that has no loyalty or sense of brotherhood. They are merely a band of felons and drug traffickers united by their greed.</p>
<p>One aspect of the book that I found especially striking is how effective Tenorio is in describing and picking apart Cade’s feelings about his own state of mind and his emerging feelings for the feisty Katrina. Although she awakens emotions in him that have long been dormant, Cade doesn’t think he has anything to offer. I feel the depth of Cade’s despair when he wishes <strong>“he had something more to offer her than the body of a ghost who didn’t know how to die.”</strong> </p>
<p>Another one of Cade’s reflections that I found to be especially poignant and powerful:</p>
<p>“<strong>From the start, she’d made him wish he could be different. That he was still the guy who wanted to change the world and save lives. The one who laughed easily and trusted the world to be black and white. That guy had died with so many others, thousands of miles from here, under a killing sun that never seemed to set, in sands that never satisfied its thirst for blood.”</strong></p>
<p>Tenorio gives this couple a HEA that is realistic and consistent with their backstories and the events that occur in the book, and you can expect some steamy love scenes along the way.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When I read a romantic suspense, I like to see equal weight given to the romance and the suspenseful. In <i>Convicted</i>, the romance overshadows the major external battle between the law and the MC. The suspense was strongest at the beginning and in the scenes closest to the climax. While I was aware throughout the book that the major characters were in perilous situations, especially Katrina, I just didn’t experience the nail-biting adventures I like to read. One minor aspect that disrupted my read was the abrupt announcements that signaled progression in the story’s timeline. Transitions should move the story forward seamlessly, and, if done skillfully, when reading along, I will hardly notice the shifts. This wasn’t the case with this novel.</p>
<p> To sum up, I’m glad I read the book and especially enjoyed the romance between two people who appear to be on different sides of the law finding their way to each other. </p>
<p>Source: I received an ARC ebook from the publisher to provide an honest review.</p>
<p> Link to Blog Post</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/09/13/review-of-convicted/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/09/13/review-of-convicted/</a></p>Review of Personal Assistance by Louise Rose-Innestag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-09-02:6621382:BlogPost:570332014-09-02T19:25:33.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><i>Personal Assistance</i> appealed to me because of its volatile Middle East setting: an Arab nation on the brink of civil war and the book description’s promise of action, danger and romance. The author does not disappoint in regards to the book’s vivid descriptions of this place, its customs, and the barrage of dangers Hannah and Tom face in their endeavors to escape Prince Hakeem’s clutches. Because Hannah has inadvertently discovered secret intelligence that may prove vital in swaying…</p>
<p><i>Personal Assistance</i> appealed to me because of its volatile Middle East setting: an Arab nation on the brink of civil war and the book description’s promise of action, danger and romance. The author does not disappoint in regards to the book’s vivid descriptions of this place, its customs, and the barrage of dangers Hannah and Tom face in their endeavors to escape Prince Hakeem’s clutches. Because Hannah has inadvertently discovered secret intelligence that may prove vital in swaying the outcome of this war, she and Tom must work together to relay this Intel and get back to the safety of Britain. Time is of the essence and, overall, the author keeps the story moving at an effective pace so my interest never waned.</p>
<p> The relationship between Tom and Hannah is tenuous at best when they meet. Both are desperate and united by their mutual need for each other’s help. Tom is a member of SAS, Britain’s elite Special Forces, and he has the training and expertise to keep Hannah safe and get her out of the country. Moreover, Tom has a vested interest in helping Hannah because she’s his ticket back into his commander’s good graces and his means of proving his competence in the field. After Tom’s last mission went awry, he was pulled from active duty, but if he can deliver the information Hannah has back to his CO, his actions may go a long way in restoring his reputation. In the beginning, Tom and Hannah are wary of each other’s motives, and the elements of trust and fear of betrayal are primary themes that consistently arise as the story progresses.</p>
<p>However, there are some aspects of the book that proved problematic for me. First of all the intensity of this couple’s romance is too much, too soon, and their HEA is too fast for me to truly believe. Are they infatuated with each other? Definitely. But true love? No.</p>
<p>Second, the resolution of the climax seems rushed. Throughout the book, the author is descriptive and detailed until the end, when her narration shifts into a “telling” rather than “showing” mode.</p>
<p>Furthermore, although I expected the villains in the book to be flat two-dimensional characters, I had hoped the hero and heroine would be more dynamic and well-rounded than they are actually depicted. Readers get enough of both Tom’s and Hannah’s backstories to help understand how both ended up in the Middle East, but, for me, their circumstances seemed somewhat contrived. I just didn’t feel a strong connection to either of them, as if they were real people I might meet. I do, however, appreciate the dominant traits that define Hannah as spirited and determined while the quiet, reserved Tom is a man of courage and honor.</p>
<p>Source: I received an ARC ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Link to Blog Post</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/09/02/mini-review-of-personal-assistance/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/09/02/mini-review-of-personal-assistance/</a></p>
<p> </p>Review of Dangerous Destiny (Night Sky # 0.5) by Suzanne Brockmann & Melanie Brockmanntag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-09-01:6621382:BlogPost:569622014-09-01T14:58:34.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>A Good Teaser to Whet Your Appetite for Night Sky</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When I started <i>Dangerous Destiny</i>, I thought I would be reading a novella; instead, I consider it to be a compendium of writings to familiarize readers with this series. The prequel begins with a short story that introduces readers to high school junior, Skylar Reid and describes how her friendship with Calvin is forged after they face down a gun-toting fellow student who appears to be delusional, thinking the only way…</p>
<p>A Good Teaser to Whet Your Appetite for Night Sky</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When I started <i>Dangerous Destiny</i>, I thought I would be reading a novella; instead, I consider it to be a compendium of writings to familiarize readers with this series. The prequel begins with a short story that introduces readers to high school junior, Skylar Reid and describes how her friendship with Calvin is forged after they face down a gun-toting fellow student who appears to be delusional, thinking the only way to save Skylar is to kill her. I connected right away with Skylar, especially her struggle to adjust to a new school and the intense scrutiny of her peers:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I felt like a rat tossed into a tropical snake tank-completely out of my element, confused, and trapped. But unlike most rats, I was well aware that I was in danger of being devoured, my bones spit out and left to bleach in the relentless southern sun, by any one of this school’s well-established cliques.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p> The story is narrated in first person from Skyler’s POV, and, so far, I like her attitude, her dry sense of humor, and her insightfulness as she maneuvers her way through all the teenage drama and angst headed her way. I initially wondered whether Skylar would be a timid, passive teen whose character slowly becomes stronger as she learns to use her special powers; however, it didn’t take long for me to realize that Skylar is no pushover, and she seems to be able to handle whatever life throws at her. The authors have done a great job in creating characters that think, speak, and behave like the teenagers they are. For example, Skylar worries that she’s in the “loser” category because she has to ride the bus, and she’s annoyed by her mom’s over-protectiveness.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Following the resolution of this short story, readers can preview <i>Night Sky</i> by reading the first five chapters of the book. Just like in the prequel, the authors pulled me quickly into a scene where Skylar and her friend Calvin get caught up in a bizarre crisis that continues to evolve and escalate as the story unfolds. I can already tell the book is going to be full of adventure, mystery, and suspense. From what I’ve read, I think this is a book teens and adult lovers of YA literature can really enjoy.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The final section of the prequel is a Q&A with both Suzanne and Melanie about the series. I really enjoyed getting greater insight into how mother and daughter were able to work together to create the plot and the engaging characters I’ve met so far.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>After reading the prequel, I’m definitely interested in reading <i>Night Sky.</i> The series is described as “being set in a darkly futuristic paranormal world” (Q&A with authors), but I really didn’t see many “dark” and “futuristic” elements. Perhaps these aspects will become more prominent as the book progresses. </p>
<p><br/> From what I read so far, I am impressed with the cohesiveness of the story, especially since it was born from the collaborative labors of more than one author. It can be a challenge to co-author a book because it involves both writers being able to mesh their differences in writing style into one consistent written product. However, the mother-daughter Brockmann team is successful in this endeavor.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I’m glad I read the prequel, and I did so because it was available for free; otherwise, I wouldn’t have purchased it. Although the content was interesting to read, and it amped up my motivation to read <i>Night Sky</i>, I don’t see it as a prerequisite for jumping into the book.</p>
<p> Link to Blog Post:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/31/sunday-series-spotlight-night-sky/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/31/sunday-series-spotlight-night-sky/</a></p>
<p> </p>Review of Whatever It Takes (Trust No One # 4) by Dixie Lee Browntag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-08-27:6621382:BlogPost:566622014-08-27T13:56:09.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p> If you read the third book in this series, <i>If Only You Knew</i>, like me, you probably have been looking forward to Nate and Alex’s story because they don’t seem to get off on the right footing when they meet in the latter part of the book, and the sparks between them have already started to fly! Now, in this fourth installment that extends the plot from book three, <i>Whatever It Takes</i> features the continuation of Nate and Alex’s relationship. And I’ll go ahead and say right now…</p>
<p> If you read the third book in this series, <i>If Only You Knew</i>, like me, you probably have been looking forward to Nate and Alex’s story because they don’t seem to get off on the right footing when they meet in the latter part of the book, and the sparks between them have already started to fly! Now, in this fourth installment that extends the plot from book three, <i>Whatever It Takes</i> features the continuation of Nate and Alex’s relationship. And I’ll go ahead and say right now Brown does not disappoint. <i>Whatever it Takes</i> has all the excitement, thrills and an amorous romance that I’ve come to expect in this series.</p>
<p>The book picks up the plot several months later in the story’s timeline. A five-year-old boy, Marco, was kidnapped in the last book and used as leverage by a rogue FBI agent to manipulate the boy’s mother into cooperating with him in his illicit schemes. Now, after months of searching, Joe’s team has a strong lead on the human trafficker who has him, and time is of the essence in getting the boy out of the hands of Diego Vasquez. As the team prepares a plan to get Marco back to his mother, Alex is sent to locate undercover detective, Nate Sanders to assist in the rescue mission.</p>
<p>When Alex does find Nate, their encounter is anything but typical, and it is one of the best scenes in the book because of its intense action and suspense. In the follow-up scene it’s evident their overt antagonism toward each other is really just a façade to mask the sexual tension brimming between them. Nate has been warned about Alex’s instability, “…she was lethal, unpredictable, and apt to respond with violent intent at the first sign of perceived danger.” Yet, even knowing this about her and finally seeing her in action, Nate’s attraction only increases. He is drawn to the fiery, tough-as-nails, smart-mouthed beauty, and although Alex is perfectly capable of taking care of herself, ironically Nate has a need to protect her. Even though he doesn’t know her very well, he can immediately sense the scared, vulnerable woman hidden behind the hardened mercenary who is exceptional and impressive in her knife wielding skills.</p>
<p>Alex has had a traumatic past and her emotional growth has been stunted by the abuse she has suffered. She’s aloof and distrustful of others, except for Joe and her teammates. Alex is still haunted by her captivity and Nate has to work hard for every step he takes to get close to her. The title of the book, <i>Whatever It Takes</i> is fitting for the progression of their relationship. Their constant verbal sparring which eventually leads to a tender but sensual romance is well-worth the read.</p>
<p>The title also connects to Alex and her unwavering attempt to save Marco from the ugly future that awaits him if the team fails to rescue him. Because of what happened to her, she is personally invested in seeing this boy freed, and she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get him back, even knowing her role in the rescue places her in imminent danger and has the potential to take her right back to the torment she vowed never to suffer again. Brown does a really good job in getting into the mindset of someone who has suffered severe emotional damage, and I’m impressed with how well she helps us understand what it’s like to carry this baggage around with her every single day.</p>
<p> Although the rescue mission is well-planned, the events that follow are unpredictable and suspenseful, and just when you thing the worst is over, the stakes for this couple’s survival become even higher.</p>
<p>I’ll admit at times, I became frustrated with Alex’s behavior. Nate tries to prove over and over to her that he cares about her and he’s in for the duration, even though Alex pushes him away every time they begin to make progress. Nate’s character is wonderful and even though Alex tells him to stay away because she’s crazy and fears that she’ll hurt him, Nate believes and trusts her. His feelings are always transparent:</p>
<p><strong> “If you’re going to spend more time around me, and I hope you will, you should be prepared because I look for the good in people and I’m likely to say something <i>nice</i> at any moment. I’m a complete sap,and I get all emotional at the drop of a hat. I want you to know how I feel.”</strong></p>
<p>Nate is irresistible, and his openness is refreshing. I just wish it didn’t take so long for Alex to realize he is willing to accept her just as she is. When she tells him she wishes she were normal, I love his reply that “normal is overrated.”</p>
<p>Now I’m ready for Jimmy’s story. He’s one of Alex’s teammates and one of the few she connects with because both suffer from PTSD. In the next mission, Jimmy will be taking the lead and most likely working solo since as a former SEAL, he’s a deadly weapon, without or without a gun. The plot continues as Jimmy sets out to find Marco’s mother, who has mysteriously disappeared.</p>
<p>Although <i>Whatever it Takes</i> can be read as a stand-alone since Brown provides enough detail to explain how Marco and his mother came to be separated, I recommend reading the third installment first. While others may be fine with reading a summary of past events connected to the ongoing plot, I prefer to experience the entirety of a story rather than relying on a re-cap of the what happened before. All in all, <i>Whatever It Takes is</i> a very good romantic suspense.</p>
<p> Source: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher to provide an honest review. Note: The quotes used in this review were taken from a pre-released version of the book and may have changed or been omitted in the final released edition. </p>
<p>Link to Post</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/26/blog-tour-review-author-interview-giveaway-for-whatever-it-takes/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/26/blog-tour-review-author-interview-giveaway-for-whatever-it-takes/</a></p>Review of The Devil's Fire by Matt Tomerlintag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-08-24:6621382:BlogPost:566102014-08-24T14:18:15.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>If you like fictional novels about Pirates and their lives on the high seas, but aren’t looking for a romance, I can recommend <em>The Devil’s Fire: A Pirate Adventure</em><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Novel,<em> </em>by Matt Tomerlin, the first book in his Devil Fires Trilogy:</p>
<p>Tomerlin takes readers into the raw and gritty world of piracy, and one woman’s struggle after she and her ship captain husband are kidnapped after their merchant ship is overtaken by a…</p>
<p>If you like fictional novels about Pirates and their lives on the high seas, but aren’t looking for a romance, I can recommend <em>The Devil’s Fire: A Pirate Adventure</em><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Novel,<em> </em>by Matt Tomerlin, the first book in his Devil Fires Trilogy:</p>
<p>Tomerlin takes readers into the raw and gritty world of piracy, and one woman’s struggle after she and her ship captain husband are kidnapped after their merchant ship is overtaken by a treacherous band of pirates whose<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><strong>brutality and violence are not for those who are easily unnerved by violence.</strong><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>The protagonist, Katherine, is forced to reluctantly accept that she is included in the “treasure” plundered from her husband’s ship, and through her experiences as a captive, she is transformed into a hardened woman obsessed with revenge, who reaches the brink of her humanity. It’s a gripping story narrated from multiple characters’ perspectives, and these characters are richly developed and deeply flawed. There are no admirable heroes to be found, none who will rescue and save Katherine. She must unflinchingly stand on her own if she is to have any hope of outmaneuvering those who have taken her freedom.</p>
<p>Link to Blog Post:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/24/mini-review-of-the-devils-fire/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/24/mini-review-of-the-devils-fire/</a></p>
<p></p>Review of Not Quite Dead (A Lowcountry Ghost Story # 1) by Lyla Paynetag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-08-24:6621382:BlogPost:566082014-08-24T14:17:01.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><strong>A Conversational Review of Not Quite Dead</strong></p>
<p>When I write a review of a book, I try to think about what readers would really want to know, and then I incorporate my reactions into a more formal, organized essay-like response. However, today, I’ve decided to stray from this format, and do a Q&A -style review where I’ve compiled a list of questions I would most likely ask someone who has read the book, so I could determine whether or not I would choose to read it.…</p>
<p><strong>A Conversational Review of Not Quite Dead</strong></p>
<p>When I write a review of a book, I try to think about what readers would really want to know, and then I incorporate my reactions into a more formal, organized essay-like response. However, today, I’ve decided to stray from this format, and do a Q&A -style review where I’ve compiled a list of questions I would most likely ask someone who has read the book, so I could determine whether or not I would choose to read it. Since in this case, I have read <em>Not Quite Dead</em>, I will be the one providing the answers, and hopefully, by the end of the conversation, you will have greater insight into what to expect from today’s book selection.</p>
<p> <b>So, Barbara Ann, what led you to decide to read <i>Not Quite Dead</i>? </b></p>
<p> When I discovered the plot of the book involved the ghost of the infamous female pirate, Anne Bonny, I knew I wanted to read the book. I’m a fan of pirate history and enjoy reading about the men and the few women, such as Anne Bonny, who lived their lives as buccaneers upon the high seas. Many of these individuals were drawn into the lifestyle by promises of adventure and fortune, and for them, the risk involved still outweighed the drudgery of life on land and the limited freedoms many of them would have otherwise had if they had remained within the confines of society and the law.</p>
<p>Anne Bonny is one of, if not the, most notorious female pirate in history. However, after she and her crew were finally caught and arrested, only she and Mary Read, another woman on their ship were able to avoid execution, and only because both women were pregnant. There’s lots of speculation about what became of Anne afterward, but there’s no documented proof.</p>
<p>I’ve always been fascinated by Anne Bonny because she refused to be bound by the societal constraints placed upon women during her lifetime, and she chose a form of freedom that allowed her to true to herself, even though she caused quite a scandal and was a major embarrassment to her plantation-owner father in the 1700s. I even have my own Anne Bonny figurine that I picked up several years ago during one of the numerous pirate festivals I attended.</p>
<p><b>Does the book focus more on Anne Bonny’s story or on Graciela Harper who has returned to the lowcountry, where she encounters Bonny’s ghost who has supposedly been haunting the area for a long time?</b></p>
<p>What makes this book such an interesting read is that the author has created two parallel story lines:</p>
<p>-Graciela has experienced some major setbacks in her life and has returned to the only place she has ever considered home to care for her ailing grandfather. Although her grandfather welcomes her with open arms, Graciela still struggles to reconnect with her estranged family and friends.</p>
<p> -Whether the real Anne Bonny ever returned to S.C. remains to be seen, but in this book, her ghost still lingers in the area and refuses to let go of this world until Graciela helps her find the peace she seeks.</p>
<p>In creating Anne Bonny’s ghost, the author provides her own version of what may have happened to Anne Bonny centuries ago.</p>
<p>The story begins by describing Graciela’s return home and her struggles with depression and alcohol. When Anne’s ghost begins relentlessly haunting Graciela, the focus shifts to Graciela’s desire to know why Anne has chosen her for help and as the plot progresses, readers discover how and why both stories are entwined.</p>
<p><b>What’s the ghost of Anne Bonny like? Is she friendly or scary?</b></p>
<p>Anne’s ghost sure isn’t the beauty I envisioned, even with her red hair and green eyes. Graciela always knows when Anne is about to make an appearance because of the awful briny smell that precedes her. For some reason, only Graciela can see her, and Anne is a scary ghost you don’t want to cross. If you’ve read the rumors about Anne, she was known to have a temper and didn’t hesitate to inflict violence, and her ghost also has those same attributes. Over time, though Graciela and Anne become accustomed to each other and form a tenuous partnership to find answers about Anne’s legacy.</p>
<p><b>Why does Anne’s ghost think Graciela can help her when Graciela’s own life is spiraling out of control when she comes home? What exactly is the connection between them?</b></p>
<p>Anne has a very good reason for choosing Graciela to help her, but I can’t tell you about their connection because it would spoil the book for you. However, I can guarantee that by the end of the book, you will know why Anne’s spirit is in a state of unrest and why she specifically needs Graciela’s help.</p>
<p>Let me also add that Graciela is similar to Anne in more ways than you might expect. Yes, Graciela is a mess when she comes back to S.C. because, like Anne, she’s struggling to find her own identity. Although it seems likely that when a depressed woman who drinks heavily begins seeing a ghost, she would just go right over the edge, this isn’t the case for Graciela. Ironically, Anne’s ghost gives Graciela a reason to get her act together, to have a purpose, and to grow stronger. Both Graciela and Anne have similar struggles in their efforts to stand up for themselves and not be boxed into roles someone else has defined for them. Just like Anne once did, Graciela gains more self-confidence and begins to transform into the independent woman she has always longed to become.</p>
<p><b>What’s the romance like between Graciela and Beauregard?</b></p>
<p>Well, Graciela and Beauregard don’t exactly get off to the best start when they first meet. Although the chemistry between them is there, their relationship is more of a friendship at this point with just a touch of romance. Gabriella just isn’t ready to be in a romantic relationship at this point in her life. Even knowing about her past and the gossip her neighbor loves to spread about her, Beau still wants to get close to Gabriella. He also scores some huge bonus points with Graciela (and me as well) because he really does believe her when she finally gets the nerve to tell him she sees Anne Bonny’s ghost.</p>
<p><b>Would you recommend this book to others?</b></p>
<p>Yes, I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy a spooky ghost story that blends a bit of history, local legend, and the paranormal into an engaging and suspenseful read. The resolution of the story occurs in the epilogue, which wraps up the plot of this story very well, but does leave some of the story threads that are introduced still hanging. I expect the author will continue to develop these unresolved aspects in the next installment. The author also foreshadows the plot of the next book in the series, and it seems Graciela may just wind up having a career as ghost whisperer. </p>
<p>Source: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.</p>
<p>Link to Blog Post:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/23/a-conversational-review-of-not-quite-dead-a-lowcountry-ghost-story-1/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/23/a-conversational-review-of-not-quite-dead-a-lowcountry-ghost-story-1/</a></p>
<p> </p>Review of Target for Terror by L.A. Idingtag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-08-22:6621382:BlogPost:563742014-08-22T14:52:01.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><i>Target for Terror</i> is has all of the elements that make for a good book: mystery, action, suspense, and romance all bundled together for one sexy, engaging read. Iding is definitely off to a good start with her new series centered on the work of Sloan and Jordan who have partnered together to create Security Specialists, Inc. The history behind the startup of the company and the backstories of these two heroes are smoothly incorporated throughout the book without readers having too…</p>
<p><i>Target for Terror</i> is has all of the elements that make for a good book: mystery, action, suspense, and romance all bundled together for one sexy, engaging read. Iding is definitely off to a good start with her new series centered on the work of Sloan and Jordan who have partnered together to create Security Specialists, Inc. The history behind the startup of the company and the backstories of these two heroes are smoothly incorporated throughout the book without readers having too much exposition dumped on them all at once in the beginning of the story.</p>
<p>Watching the burgeoning relationship between Sloan and Natalia grow over the course of the book is what I enjoyed the most during my read. Natalia is distrustful of Sloan, as she should be; her life is in danger, and she’s all alone, unsure of who can be trusted. Sloan tries to keep her safe, but for the first half of the book, Natalia fights him every step of the way. Early on, she’s antagonistic, sarcastic, and feisty…which surprisingly is a turn-on for Sloan, and he’s a sucker for her Russian accent when she insults him:</p>
<p> “Her husky tone sent fissions of heat flickering through his veins. There was something genetically wrong with him if he could be attracted to a woman who’d called him a pig.”</p>
<p>I found a lot of the conversational sparring between them to be quite amusing, and the touch of wry humor Iding sprinkles throughout the book gives readers a much needed respite from the otherwise serious and violent plot.</p>
<p><i>Target for Terror</i> is not a light, easy read…at least it wasn’t for me. The plot is complex and involves many characters who may or may not be involved in a terrorist plot against the U.S, and in this book, the Cold War is still very much in effect as the tension between Russia and the U.S. escalates, especially after the Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister is shot while delivering a speech in Washington, D.C. I really had to pay attention to understand all the major players involved and their possible motivations for all the murders that take place. What’s so interesting is that Natalia, a regular everyday person and nurse, seems to be somehow connected to all of villains and their plans for power. When the truth finally is revealed, I have to say, it was a shock! As Sloan and Natalia make their way through one crisis after another, they find lots of little surprises as they begin to figure out how everyone is connected. Needless to say, there is a lot going on in this book.</p>
<p>The chemistry between Sloan and Natalia feels genuine, and the intimate scenes between them are hot but not so steamy, they make you blush. However, I do question the timing of these scenes. The couple gives into their passion, hoping the “mind-numbing pleasure” will help them escape momentary from the worry, grief, and desperation they are feeling at the time. While some may completely understand their actions, if I were in their situation, sexual intimacy would not be at the top of my list…figuring out what to do next to survive would. Like most readers of romance, I look forward to the “happily ever after” that I hope I’ll find in the resolution, and that HEA can come in many forms. Sloan and Natalia’s HEA was a bit too soon and too sappy for me. However, others may their resolution to be spot on after everything this couple has been through together.</p>
<p>Following the conclusion to the book, Iding gives readers a preview of what’s next in the sequel which features Jordan, and it’s clear this book will also be full of surprises that will catch both the characters and readers off guard. I’m already sucked in…so I’ll be keeping my eye out for the book’s release.</p>
<p>Source: I received a copy of the book from the author to provide an honest review.</p>
<p>Link to Review + Author Interivew & Giveaway:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/22/blog-tour-target-for-terror-security-specialists-inc-1/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/22/blog-tour-target-for-terror-security-specialists-inc-1/</a></p>Review of Personal Target (Elite Ops # 2) by Kay Thomastag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-08-21:6621382:BlogPost:565082014-08-21T13:27:52.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><em>“Everything is not always as it appears.”</em> –Ernesto Vega, Personal Target</p>
<p>I found this quote spoken by one of the main antagonists to be quite accurate in encapsulating the plot of <i>Personal Target</i>. Thomas takes the hero, Nick Donovan and Jennifer Grayson, the woman he’s determined to protect down a thrilling, dangerous path that is filled with suspenseful action and a bit of mystery as they face down Mexican cartels, human traffickers, and a barrage of violence…</p>
<p><em>“Everything is not always as it appears.”</em> –Ernesto Vega, Personal Target</p>
<p>I found this quote spoken by one of the main antagonists to be quite accurate in encapsulating the plot of <i>Personal Target</i>. Thomas takes the hero, Nick Donovan and Jennifer Grayson, the woman he’s determined to protect down a thrilling, dangerous path that is filled with suspenseful action and a bit of mystery as they face down Mexican cartels, human traffickers, and a barrage of violence launched their way at every twist and turn. Needless to say, these characters don’t get much of a reprieve throughout the entirety of the book. When they aren’t dealing with these external conflicts, each is battling an inner struggle with the unresolved feelings still lingering for the other after ten years apart. Just when Nick and Jennifer think they are beginning to understand the broad scope of what’s going on, secrets are revealed that have them reconsidering everything they thought was true. </p>
<p>Nick is one of the AEGIS agents who was part of the action in the first book, <em>Hard Target</em>, and at that time, I was intrigued by his character and the mystery of his backstory, so I was excited when I learned he would be featured in this second installment of the series. At the end of the first book, Nick was in a precarious situation and readers were left wondering what would happen to him. <i>Personal Target</i> picks up right after the resolution of book one, and takes readers into Nick’s private life and his worries and concerns over his family’s safety, since Tomas Rivera and Ernesto Vega, leaders of two major Mexican cartels are out for revenge after AEGIS invaded their corrupt world to rescue a woman and her son. In the aftermath of the violence and destruction from this last mission, the cartels have formed a tenuous alliance to seek justice, and Nick has become a target for their vengeance. Although I think you could follow the story on its own, I highly recommend starting at the beginning of the series. Both books are well-written, sexy page turners with just the right blend of romance, mystery, and action. </p>
<p><span>Nick is a former SEAL and CIA agent who joined AEGIS, a private security firm after he noticed that his working environment had contributed to the emotional numbness that now defines him, and he fears he may never be able to be come back from it and feel normal again. Thomas has created a great hero in Nick’s character, one who’s honorable, cool under fire, a quick thinker under pressure, and very persuasive in the most dubious of circumstances. He’s also fiercely protective of the ones he loves, and once he discovers his family has been personally targeted, he’s determined to do whatever is necessary to keep them safe. One of his greatest fears is that his loved ones will suffer because of the work he does, and that fear is realized when his former love is kidnapped and sent to a Mexican brothel because of a case of mistaken identity. No matter his conflicting feelings for the woman who disappeared from his life and married another man years ago, his loyalty to her is unwavering. Nick will do whatever it takes to get her back, with or without AEGIS’s assistance. </span></p>
<p><span>Jennifer just happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time when a quick grab and snatch places her in right smack in the prostitution capital of Mexico. Held captive and forced to work in the brothel where she’s held, she realizes Nick, the man who walked away from her long ago, may be the only one who can save her now. Nick’s spur of the moment rescue attempt brings her right back into his arms, and she’s not so sure she’s comfortable with that anymore. Her reluctance to let him back into her life and desire to escape his offer of protection led me to believe she’s has secrets she doesn’t want Nick to know about. Besides the great action scenes, the mystery of what caused the abrupt end to Nick and Jennifer’s romance captured my interest and wouldn’t let go until I learned the truth. </span></p>
<p><span>In the interim, their reunion arouses all those dormant feelings they had thought long forgotten. When Nick and Jennifer are together, it’s obvious their attraction for each other hasn’t faded the least bit, and this scares both of them. While it would be so easy for them to just go their separate ways, rather than deal with the emotional turmoil of being around each other, Nick is honor bound to keep Jennifer safe when it becomes obvious someone is targeting her as well for some reason that has yet to be disclosed. Unfortunately, Jennifer doesn’t make it easy for Nick to protect her. However, when she’s not trying to run away from him, their passion slowly rekindles, and the intimate scenes between them are sensual but not overly graphic in description. I also like the fact that Thomas carefully places the few love scenes between this couple in places where they have a brief respite from the looming danger, and it is actually believable that they can lower their guard for just a little while to reconnect physically. </span></p>
<p><span>As I read the story, I had mixed feelings about Jennifer. She’s stubborn and naively believes that after her kidnapping she can just pick up and resume her life as if nothing has happened. She lets her emotions rule over logic. Her connection to Nick and now the cartels have placed her life in danger, and even though she keeps getting attacked, she refuses to believe anyone would have any interest in her. She naively thinks if she can just keep her distance from Nick, then she’ll be left alone. At times, her actions frustrated me and I just wanted to yell at her to get her head out of the sand and accept her new reality. Furthermore, when Jennifer does finally get the nerve to tell Nick the truth about the secrets she’s been keeping from him, I had a hard time empathizing with her situation, and I could completely understand why Nick feels so betrayed and his reluctance to forgive her. On the other hand, even though Nick is devastated by Jennifer’s revelations, ironically, her truth begins to poke a hole in the numbness that surrounds Nick’s heart. I think Jennifer’s character and her present and past actions would make for a great book discussion. Needless to say, she’s not one of my favorite heroines, but that’s okay because she’s a complex flawed character who can’t easily have a label affixed to her. </span></p>
<p><span>Through Nick and Jennifer’s journey, Thomas takes us from Texas to Mexico, and then to a remote region of Africa, and she uses great description to help give readers a sense of each setting. She also brings awareness to the ongoing and increasing worldwide problem of human trafficking. She explores themes of trust and betrayal and the power of love to overcome the bleakest of situations. </span></p>
<p><span>Although Thomas provides a satisfying resolution to Nick and Jennifer’s story, the larger plot has gotten much more complicated and left me wondering about the stability of AEGIS and exactly who else may also be involved in attempting to sabotage the firm. Is there a traitor in the mix?</span> <span> </span><span>Although the larger plot is still evolving and I’m still not sure of what the end game is, Thomas has given me plenty of incentive to want to continue the series. </span></p>
<p><span>Link to Blog Post where you can read an excerpt and enter a giveaway:</span></p>
<p><span><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/20/book-tour-review-of-personal-target-elite-ops-2-giveaway/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/20/book-tour-review-of-personal-target-elite-ops-2-giveaway/</a></span></p>Review of Jill McCorkle's Life After Lifetag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-08-13:6621382:BlogPost:556452014-08-13T16:57:45.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>In the Afterward of <i>Life After Life</i>, Jill McCorkle sums up the book by saying:</p>
<p><strong>“This novel is a love song to memory and life.”</strong></p>
<p>I think this is an apt and eloquent summation of this moving, insightful look at living, dying, and all that lies between the two. A quick scan of the book’s description may leave you thinking this is a book about the woes of the elderly as they face impending death and that its tone may be too morbid and dark for your tastes. …</p>
<p>In the Afterward of <i>Life After Life</i>, Jill McCorkle sums up the book by saying:</p>
<p><strong>“This novel is a love song to memory and life.”</strong></p>
<p>I think this is an apt and eloquent summation of this moving, insightful look at living, dying, and all that lies between the two. A quick scan of the book’s description may leave you thinking this is a book about the woes of the elderly as they face impending death and that its tone may be too morbid and dark for your tastes. However, it would be a mistake to reduce the plot to such a simplistic view. McCorkle has created a vibrant array of characters that extends beyond the Pine Haven Estates Retirement Village and Assisted Living and into the community of the fictitious Fulton, North Carolina. Instead of a dark and depressing read, I found the book to be an introspective, heartwarming narrative filled with humor and the possibility of second chances. </p>
<p>The structure of the book is different from the typical plot sequence I typically read. Each chapter is narrated from a particular character’s POV and the book is really a collection of vignettes woven together through the characters’ interlocking stories. The author has an amazing ability to get into the minds of her characters, both young and old, and bring their personalities to life. She paints a vivid verbal portrait of the main characters by describing their present situations and their reflections about the past. I learned about the conflicts they endured, their yearnings, their loves as well as their fears, and regrets. One common feature I found among the adult characters’ ruminations is how important it is to discern what really matters in life and get rid of the inconsequential clutter. </p>
<p>The plot is very much character driven and although the characters’ stories seem random in the first part of the book, as the novel progresses, I began to find surprising connections among the characters and discover how their lives, both the living and the dead, crisscrossed at various times and the impact that has had upon each of them. The characters all have secrets which add a bit of mystery and suspense to the book as these secrets get unearthed. One of the central questions along the way is whether some of these characters have any hope of redemption.</p>
<p>Lots of characters are featured in the book, and McCorkle has really crafted an entire community. In fact, Fulton can be considered a character in and of itself because of the strong sense of place McCorkle has developed through her depiction of this small town’s Southern idiosyncrasies and her use of the local dialect. The characters she depicts are human and flawed. They are realistic, and by “listening in” on their reflections of the past, readers get to see the characters’ take a raw and honest look at their successes and failures. </p>
<p>One of my favorite characters is Joanna. She left Fulton years ago, and after a long arduous journey of trying to run away from her life and from herself, she finally takes the courageous step of returning home, where she becomes fodder for the gossipy townspeople. Joanna has learned</p>
<p><strong>“The longest and most expensive journey you will ever make is the one to yourself.”</strong></p>
<p>Joanna is a volunteer in the hospice wing of the center, and keeps a notebook to record important notes about those close to death. She learned from Luke (also an influential character from Joanna’s past) that it is important to be with individuals at their moment of death, and her recollections are a tribute to them so they won’t be forgotten. Her entries provide the transition from the alternating featured characters’ stories to the voices of the dying as they release their last breath, and some of these monologues are so sweet while others are heartbreaking. A significant motif found throughout the book is ~magic~ disappearing and reappearing, and, although it took me awhile to discover its significance, I now understand how it fits into the overall scope of the plot since death is the ultimate act of disappearing. </p>
<p>While I have ample praise for this book, I also have some issues with the plot. First of all, I was disappointed with the ending. I didn’t see it coming until I turned the page to find empty space. Others may find the end appropriate, but I like tidy conclusions. I also think some of the story threads have been left dangling so the book lacks the full circle unity I most appreciate in a good novel. An example of this relates to the one character who is clearly an antagonist, but whose motives for his despicable actions are never fully explained and I want to know his ultimate outcome.</p>
<p>On the other hand, I enjoyed thinking about the themes McCorkle delves into, those related to the fragility of life, the various reactions people have to death, and the importance of the legacy one leaves behind. In the Afterward, McCorkle states<strong>, “My hope is that <i>Life After Life</i> will entertain but also will leave the reader to connect to his or her own signals and memories. After all, <i>That’s all that there is</i>.”</strong></p>
<p>Well, in this respect, McCorkle succeeded with me. I found myself frequently contemplating my own mortality, where I want to be in my twilight years, and what I will look back on with joy and with regret. She subtly challenges us to peel back the layers of our lives and remove the clutter taking up too much space in our minds without leaving room to focus on what really matters in life when we look back at the end of the day. </p>
<p>Source: library loan</p>
<p>Link to Blog Post</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/13/review-of-jill-mccorkles-life-after-life/#more-11753">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/13/review-of-jill-mccorkles-life-after-life/#more-11753</a></p>
<p> </p>Review of The Horde Without End (The World Without End # 2)tag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-08-06:6621382:BlogPost:548382014-08-06T15:17:19.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><i>The Horde Without End</i> picks up where the first book ended, with Finn and Ren’s ongoing journey to find Ren’s brother, Collin and her boyfriend, Dustin. The enigmatic Finn is Collin’s best friend and his two main priorities are keeping Collin and Ren alive. After surviving their arduous trek to obtain medication for Dustin, who was injured during their escape from a zombie invasion of their Safe Haven or home in the first book, they must now face the wide open, zombie-infested terrain…</p>
<p><i>The Horde Without End</i> picks up where the first book ended, with Finn and Ren’s ongoing journey to find Ren’s brother, Collin and her boyfriend, Dustin. The enigmatic Finn is Collin’s best friend and his two main priorities are keeping Collin and Ren alive. After surviving their arduous trek to obtain medication for Dustin, who was injured during their escape from a zombie invasion of their Safe Haven or home in the first book, they must now face the wide open, zombie-infested terrain to find and reunite with Collin and Dustin…unsure whether the two are still even alive. Hope can be a dangerous thing, but it’s all Ren has to keep moving forward with Finn, a man she both loathes and desires.</p>
<p align="center" style="text-align: left;"> If you thought the passion brimming beneath the antagonism between Finn and Ren was intense in the first book, you will find the continued friction and sexual tension between them now has grown so taut that it’s only a matter of time before it all explodes. A central question is whether they trust each other enough to survive the aftermath. As I discovered in the first book, whereas Ren is fiery, Finn is just as icy, and their characters continue to clash in this second installment even when they try to resist their temptation for each other.</p>
<p>Similar to the first book, the pace of the story picks up quickly and is full of mystery and action and danger as complications continue rise and pose obstacles for the two as they get closer to finding Collin and Dustin and try to warn the other Havens about the increasing zombie hordes. It appears the virus that infected them is continuing to mutate and the zombies are adapting and becoming more successful in their attacks. </p>
<p>Both Ren and Finn alternately narrate the story in the first person POV using the present tense, which is commonly found in new adult fiction. Using the present tense gives a sense of immediacy and intensity to the situation and is an effective technique for the plot of this series. Also, readers begin to discover more details about Finn’s secretive past and why he is so reluctant for anyone to get close to him. I also now realize why it is so important for Finn to have Ren’s trust even though he continues to withhold so much information from her.</p>
<p>While I had a good idea of how the first book would conclude, I was shocked by the climactic cliff-hanger of this book. The ending left me clamoring for more, and I hope Andrews won’t keep her readers waiting too long. As a fan of post-apocalyptic zombie fiction, I really enjoyed reading these first two books, and they must be read in sequence to understand the storyline. I especially liked the unusual twist to the typical zombie plot that Andrews adds in the first book, which describes how and why a cult-like group called the Order organizes a “celebratory tribute” every year on the anniversary of the initial outbreak that occurred 20 years prior. This story thread continues in the series since the Order continues to pose a threat to Ren. So far, these first two books in the series are riveting and entertaining from start to finish.</p>
<p>Those who plan to start the series should be aware that the books contain graphic violence, sexually explicit scenes, and coarse language. With those caveats in mind, readers who like new adult fiction that juxtaposes the sexy and the dark may like this series as well.</p>
<p>Source: I received an ARC of this book from the author to provide an honest review.</p>
<p>Rating: 4.5 </p>
<p>Link to Blog Post:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/05/blog-tour-review-giveaway-for-the-horde-without-end-the-world-without-end-2/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/08/05/blog-tour-review-giveaway-for-the-horde-without-end-the-world-without-end-2/</a></p>Review of The World Without a Future (The World Without End # 1)tag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-08-06:6621382:BlogPost:548362014-08-06T15:15:34.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>Nazarea Andrews has taken new adult romance out of the college classroom and moved it into a post-apocalyptic world where survivors of a world-wide virus outbreak struggle to survive the terror of zombie hordes that surround them. They thought they were safe behind the walls and barbed wires fencing of their Havens, but the hordes have grown much larger in number and the walls are beginning to crumble. No Haven in what's left of the U.S. is safe from the zombies headed their way. If you…</p>
<p>Nazarea Andrews has taken new adult romance out of the college classroom and moved it into a post-apocalyptic world where survivors of a world-wide virus outbreak struggle to survive the terror of zombie hordes that surround them. They thought they were safe behind the walls and barbed wires fencing of their Havens, but the hordes have grown much larger in number and the walls are beginning to crumble. No Haven in what's left of the U.S. is safe from the zombies headed their way. If you want to spice up your romance with a bit of zombie action and violence, then you should definitely check out The World Without End series.</p>
<p> The two main characters featured in this series are Ren and Finn. Ren was born on the day of the virus outbreak and has grown up in this post-apocalyptic world without ever knowing what life was like before. However, her older brother Collin and his best friend, Finn remember the country and the beauty and conveniences it once offered. Now the survivors live in Havens across the country, but as the story progresses, it becomes evident that a political structure and hierarchy similar to pre-zombie society continues to exist, and the vices that people once openly engaged haven’t disappeared; they’ve just moved underground. Even though this is a different world, people still try to hold on to their old lifestyles.</p>
<p>Ren and Finn have an antagonistic but desire-driven relationship throughout the entire book. Finn has many secrets about his past that he refuses to disclose, and Ren has always been a bit jealous of his closeness to her brother. She doesn’t understand Finn and becomes even more frustrated when they have to journey together to another Haven in search of medicine for her best friend/boyfriend, Dustin. Although Collin has remained behind, he knows Finn is the best person to protect Ren. Finn needs Ren to trust him, but will never answer any of her questions. Through their travels together, Ren learns bits and pieces about Finn’s life from her observations of his interactions and behavior toward others they encounter. As a reader, just when I thought I had begun to figure out who Finn really is, later scenes would bring up even more questions for speculation. Ren and Finn’s proverbial tug of war is one of the main aspects that make this book so enjoyable. Through their relationship, Andrews explores the fine line between love and hate and the passion that simmers beneath, waiting to explode. The sexual tension between the two is intense to say the least. </p>
<p>Another aspect that I liked is that Andrews provides an unusual twist to the typical zombie plot by describing how and why a cult-like group called the Order organizes a “celebratory tribute” every year on the anniversary of the initial outbreak that occurred 20 years prior. Readers are given clues early in the book that Ren is somehow different, but as the story progresses, her threat to the order and the danger she faces during the anniversary events are revealed, and it’s quite a shocker.</p>
<p>Andrews brings to life this fictitious and dangerous world that brings out both the best and the worst in humanity. As a reader, be prepared for scenes that contain graphic violence, rough language, and sexual situations. Despite the intermittent proofreading errors I found throughout the book, I still found this to be a very enjoyable read.</p>
<p>Source: I received a copy of this book from the author to provide an honest review.</p>
<p>Rating: Good.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Review of Lovely, Dark, and Deep by Susannah Sandlintag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-08-06:6621382:BlogPost:547502014-08-06T13:27:01.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>Susannah Sandlin is off to a very good start in her new Collectors series with <i>Lovely, Dark, and Deep.</i> What made this book so enjoyable for me is the interweaving of a suspenseful plot and setting along with a great cast of memorable characters.</p>
<p>This series revolves around a secret group of rare artifact collectors who are known as “C7.” This group is comprised of uber-wealthy, powerfully connected individuals who compete against each other to see who can be the first to…</p>
<p>Susannah Sandlin is off to a very good start in her new Collectors series with <i>Lovely, Dark, and Deep.</i> What made this book so enjoyable for me is the interweaving of a suspenseful plot and setting along with a great cast of memorable characters.</p>
<p>This series revolves around a secret group of rare artifact collectors who are known as “C7.” This group is comprised of uber-wealthy, powerfully connected individuals who compete against each other to see who can be the first to acquire hard-to-find treasures. It’s a selfish, ruthless game where the players use their resources to coerce innocent, everyday people into becoming participants in their search for the precious objects of their interest. Although the game does have its rules, intimidation, emotional manipulation, and even murder are tactics that may be employed to keep those forced to play along in line. </p>
<p>In <i>Lovely, Dark, and Deep</i>, the coveted item is a ruby embedded cross believed to have belonged to the Knights Templar. Once C7 member Weston Flynn, a U.S. politician, learns of the legendary existence of this cross, he “enlists” the assistance of biologist Gillian Campell, whose ancestor is rumored to have stolen the cross but then died with it in his possession in a shipwreck off the coast of Nova Scotia, Canada. Although Gillian has no idea whether the family legend is true, she is forced into the search after her niece’s life is threatened. In order to find the cross, she needs the help of technical diver, Shane Burke, who has the knowledge and experience of diving in the deep, often treacherous waters of the wreck site if she has any chance at all of retrieving what amounts to “finding a needle in a haystack” within the given thirty day time period. </p>
<p> Although readers know the identity of the C7 player behind the search, Gillian and Shane are kept in the dark about the person manipulating them from behind the scenes. Their contact is a liaison whose nickname is “Big Tex” who gives them their instructions and inflicts damage to reinforce the severity of their situation. Failure is not an option, even though they both know their chance of success is slim to none.</p>
<p> Together they set sail for Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, where the ship carrying the cross is rumored to have sunk. The obstacles they face seem almost insurmountable given the rocky coastline and treacherous ocean currents. However, along their journey, they receive the help of some quirky characters whose distinct personalities are unforgettable. Shane’s friend, Jagger, who constantly hums Rolling Stones’ lyrics and the cantankerous elderly uncle whose B.S. deter never fails, play a vital role in their mission. When the group reaches Cape Breton, they are aided by ornery retired commercial fisherman Chevy, and his wife Cleo, who epitomizes the phrase, “I am woman, hear me roar.” These characters really livened up the story, and I especially enjoyed the minor conflicts that ensued among Shane and Gillian’s overprotective dog, Tank. Overall, the author does a great job with developing her characters except for the antagonists. They are flat and their motivations for being involved really could be fleshed out in more detail.</p>
<p> Both Gillian and Shane are very likable characters who are each burdened by past sorrows and regrets. Although their relationship is initially tenuous, the attraction between them is certainly there and the bond between them begins to solidify once they share their guilt and vulnerabilities with each other. Their romance and intimacy takes time to develop but smoothly blends into story. The love scenes are few and mildly descriptive, and I appreciated that they were never a distraction to the overall plot.</p>
<p>The action, pacing, and suspense throughout the story kept me turning the pages and I found it hard to find a good place to pause since almost every chapter ends with a mini cliff-hanger. I enjoyed the book and recommend it to readers who enjoy romance and a thrilling plot.</p>
<p>Source: I received an ARC of this ebook from the author to provide an honest and fair review.</p>
<p> Rating: 4.5 - Great</p>
<p>Link to Blog Post</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/07/31/book-tour-review-for-lovely-dark-and-deep-the-collectors-1/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/07/31/book-tour-review-for-lovely-dark-and-deep-the-collectors-1/</a></p>
<p> </p>Review of Waking Up White: And Finding the Story of Race by Debby Irvingtag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-07-26:6621382:BlogPost:512502014-07-26T14:40:15.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>“Whiteness, it turns out, is but a pigment of the imagination.” – Debby Irving</p>
<p>Debby Irving has written an enlightening, boldly honest, and refreshing narrative that describes her awakening to her own whiteness and her personal transformative journey to understand the complexity of systematic racism that is still perpetuated in society. In the preface of the book, Irving reminds readers how important it is to dismantle racial barriers and inequalities that have become entrenched in…</p>
<p>“Whiteness, it turns out, is but a pigment of the imagination.” – Debby Irving</p>
<p>Debby Irving has written an enlightening, boldly honest, and refreshing narrative that describes her awakening to her own whiteness and her personal transformative journey to understand the complexity of systematic racism that is still perpetuated in society. In the preface of the book, Irving reminds readers how important it is to dismantle racial barriers and inequalities that have become entrenched in America’s historically white dominated culture:</p>
<p><em><strong>“Racism crushes spirits, incites divisiveness, and justifies the estrangement of entire groups of individuals who, like all humans, come into the world full of goodness, with a desire to connect, and with boundless capacity to learn and grow. Unless adults understand racism, they will, as I did, unknowingly teach it to their children.”</strong></em></p>
<p>In the first part of the book, Irving defines herself as 100% New England WASP and then spends a great amount of time describing her roots, family values, and the affluent lifestyle she had growing up. Her self-awareness of her background and ancestry were the first steps in a “racial learning journey” that required her to step out of her comfort zone and closely examine the beliefs she internalized growing up in a monocultural cocoon of whiteness. One of the major points she emphasizes in the book is that “Understanding whiteness, regardless of socio-economic class and ancestry is the key to understanding racism.” While my background differs significantly from hers, I could still relate to her naiveté and the outrage and shock she experienced when she discovered the “invisible skin of white privilege” had afforded her so many more opportunities than those of people of color.</p>
<p>What I appreciated most about this book is that Irving delves beyond the simplistic definition of racism as prejudice or discrimination against people because of their race and provides insight into the social construct of racism. She uses examples from history, describes the results of race-related sociological experiments, and includes anecdotes from her own life to support her claims. I admire Irving for her unabashed honesty in describing some painfully humiliating experiences in her journey toward understanding.</p>
<p>The last section of the book describes some steps we can all take toward creating an inclusive, multicultural environment and how we can move beyond the anxiety and ineptness we may feel when we try to talk about race. Another major point that resonated with me is how easy it is to judge another person’s experience from our own ethnocentric vantage point as opposed to taking the effort to imagine what it may be like to walk in someone else’s shoes.</p>
<p>The book offers lots of opportunities for self-reflection through the discussion questions posed at the end of each chapter, which encourages readers to become thoughtful and active participants in the reading process. I certainly learned a lot about my own white ethnicity and how it has impacted my understanding of racial differences and the divide that continues to separate us.</p>
<p>Source: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest and fair review.</p>
<p>Link to Blog Post</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/07/25/review-of-waking-up-white-and-finding-the-story-of-race/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/07/25/review-of-waking-up-white-and-finding-the-story-of-race/</a></p>
<p> </p>Review of An Undying Oath by H.K. Savagetag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-07-24:6621382:BlogPost:511302014-07-24T12:52:19.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><i>An Undying Oath</i>, the first book in what looks to be a planned trilogy, was an enjoyable read. I was drawn to the book because of its storyline: three honorable soldiers serving their country in the Middle East become unwilling test subjects for an immoral, unethical secret government genetics experiment to create the ultimate immortal super soldier. After escaping imprisonment, Justin, Marcus, and Jimmy refuse to rest until they have destroyed the program headed by a deranged and…</p>
<p><i>An Undying Oath</i>, the first book in what looks to be a planned trilogy, was an enjoyable read. I was drawn to the book because of its storyline: three honorable soldiers serving their country in the Middle East become unwilling test subjects for an immoral, unethical secret government genetics experiment to create the ultimate immortal super soldier. After escaping imprisonment, Justin, Marcus, and Jimmy refuse to rest until they have destroyed the program headed by a deranged and scorned General on a mission to elevate her career status.</p>
<p>When the lead scientist of this genetic government-funded program involves his estranged daughter, Sam, in his endeavors, he selfishly puts her life and those she cares about in danger. Unknowingly, Sam becomes a target and the bait for both sides in their quest to obtain this genetic formula designed to turn soldiers into weapons. Although Sergeant Justin Shaw plans to use whatever means necessary to get information from Sam and to draw out her father, his heart has other plans, and this creates dissension among the trio. Because of the dire circumstances, Sam and Justin don’t have time for their relationship to blossom slowly. Instead, their strong attraction to each other soon becomes intimate despite Justin’s efforts to keep an emotional distance. I’m not a fan of “insta love” relationships, but the events that occur help me to believe that even though Justin and Sam don’t know all the nitty-gritty details about each other, they are able to see the strength and goodness that radiates within the other, and this becomes enough for them to fight to be together. Their love scenes are mildly sensual and avoid graphic description.</p>
<p>I find that many authors of romantic suspense use dual POVs from both the hero and heroine to narrate the story, but Savage uses an omniscient POV to give readers a more holistic view of this fictitious world and to add depth to the key characters. For the most part, this technique is effective. I like getting the perspectives of both Marcus and Jimmy, who’ve also suffered and lost much through their excruciating experiences. Furthermore, I have a better understanding of the underlying tension that exists among the three men who have united for a common cause but still lack the refined cohesiveness needed to cement their team. The main characters have good intentions, but they also have their flaws, especially Sam’s father, Dr. Steven James. Just like Sam, my perception of him swung back and forth like a pendulum because of his willingness to use unethical methods in his pursuit of scientific discoveries that could be used for the greater good of society as well as to its detriment.</p>
<p>By using the omniscient POV, the author also provides a glimpse into the antagonists’ minds, but I found the villains to be merely two-dimensional characters whose motives are singularly driven by a need for power and prominence with no regard for others, so, overall, their perspectives didn’t add as much depth to the storyline. There are a few scenes leading to the plot’s suspenseful climax that incorporate too many characters’ POVs, which I found disruptive to the flow of the story. Other readers may like the infusion of multiple perspectives within a scene, but it was a distraction for me.</p>
<p>Although the beginning of the story starts off slowly, the momentum builds after Sam receives a package from her father, and then the pacing and action throughout the story kept me engaged until the very end. Savage does a great job of incorporating paranormal elements into this romantic suspense, and I look forward to reading more of this author’s work in the future.</p>
<p>Source: I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the author to provide an honest and fair review. </p>
<p>Please visit the blog page to read an excerpt, an interview with H.K. Savage, and enter a tour-wide giveaway:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/07/24/blog-tour-for-an-undying-oath-review-author-interview-giveaway/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/07/24/blog-tour-for-an-undying-oath-review-author-interview-giveaway/</a></p>Protagonists Over 40 Can Still Rock: Reviews of Still Life with Breadcrumbs & The Storied Life of A.J. Fikrytag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-07-20:6621382:BlogPost:508852014-07-20T13:01:16.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<h3>Maybe it’s just me, but it seems that the protagonists in a lot of the fiction I read (excluding YA literature) are always in the age range of mid- 20s-30s. Why is that? Is it that those middle-aged and above characters have pretty much lived their lives and have nothing worthwhile left to discover, so they are best suited as supporting characters? Well, I wholeheartedly disagree; older main characters still have plenty of opportunities for growth and change. Their stories can offer us…</h3>
<h3>Maybe it’s just me, but it seems that the protagonists in a lot of the fiction I read (excluding YA literature) are always in the age range of mid- 20s-30s. Why is that? Is it that those middle-aged and above characters have pretty much lived their lives and have nothing worthwhile left to discover, so they are best suited as supporting characters? Well, I wholeheartedly disagree; older main characters still have plenty of opportunities for growth and change. Their stories can offer us readers insight into the second half of our lives, which come with its own set of challenges. Older characters aren’t flat and static; they do rock…and I don’t mean sitting in a front porch rocking chair. (Now may be the time to disclose that I am in this more mature age group, yet I refuse to label myself as “old.”)</h3>
<p>Two recently written novels that have made my list of favorites are Anna Quindlen’s <i>Still Life with Breadcrumbs</i> and Gabrielle Zevin’s <i>The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry</i>. The protagonists in both books have advanced to the second stage in their lives, and they are similar because, at the beginning of their stories, both characters are in the midst of a downslide, thinking their best years are behind them, and the future no longer looks all that appealing. When both find themselves in new, unfamiliar terrain that force them out of their comfort zones, each discovers these unprompted changes can lead the way to a fulfilling and satisfying life.</p>
<p><i>Still Life with Breadcrumbs</i></p>
<p> I really enjoyed Rebecca’s story. At age 60, her life is in transition. She’s moved from the hustle and bustle of city life into a modest cottage on the outskirts of a small town. Rebecca has made a name for herself with her photographic collection called the “Kitchen Counter Series,” but years later, her fame is beginning to pass. She now finds herself in a reversal of fortune with less income and more bills and responsibilities piled on. Unlike what others may think, she hasn’t moved to the country for artistic inspiration but because it is financially necessary. For her the change in setting and circumstances is dramatic, but it also gives Rebecca the opportunity to slow down and really reflect upon her past failures and successes.</p>
<p>Rebecca is a woman who thinks her life has already been defined and she has grown stagnant. Through her journey she learns to break out of the box that she and everyone around her has placed her in. Our lives do not move in a linear direction, where we find one career and stay with it, we find love once, and that’s it. No, life is full of twists and turns, but if we can embrace these unexpected detours and open ourselves up to change, then new, exciting, paths await us. </p>
<p>Quinlan has written a powerful, poignant, beautifully moving love story about transition, loss, adaptation, and change. The story moves slowly but it’s an excellent read!</p>
<p> T<i>he Storied Life of A.J. Fikry</i> by Gabrielle Zevin</p>
<p>I have fallen in love with this book, and I think anyone who loves literature will enjoy following bookstore owner, A.J. Fikry through each chapter of his life. Every chapter opens with Fikry providing a lively commentary and critique about a particular literary work, and the author does a fantastic job of connecting the literary references to the story’s meaning.</p>
<p>I would characterize the A.J. readers meet at the beginning of the book as an old, crotchety, unfriendly literary snob. So imagine my surprise to discover A.J. is only 39. His attitude and cynicism have certainly aged him. However, after A.J. loses a prized literary possession, his life takes some drastic but wonderful turns that begin to melt the block of ice surrounding his heart. It’s wonderful watching him open his heart to love again and to see a community that once kept their distance begin to embrace him and his beloved bookstore. </p>
<p>Zevin pulled me into this book seller’s life so easily and effortlessly, and I became attached not only to A.J. and his bookstore but to the wonderful supporting characters as well. I was able to connect to all of these characters and become invested in their individual storylines as well. I experienced a range of emotions as I read the book, amusement, sadness, laughter, hope, and surprise. If you are a literary aficianodo, read this book. I have highlighted so many meaningful quotes and passages, and this is a novel I can see re-reading over and over.</p>
<p>“Sometimes books don’t find us until the right time.” - from <i>The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry</i></p>
<p><i><br/></i>Link to Blog Post: <a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/06/21/protagonists-over-40-can-still-rock-reviews-of-still-life-with-breadcrumbs-the-storied-life-of-a-j-fikry/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/06/21/protagonists-over-40-can-still-rock-reviews-of-still-life-with-breadcrumbs-the-storied-life-of-a-j-fikry/</a></p>Review of Last Day of My Life (Freebirds # 4) by Lani Lynn Valetag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-07-20:6621382:BlogPost:510692014-07-20T12:50:22.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>I’m a sucker for books featuring heroes who ride bikes, and when you add in a tight-knit group of former military men who run a motorcycle shop and secretly help women escape from domestic abuse, well, I can’t help but be drawn to the story, and this was exactly the case with <i>Last Day of My Life</i>. Although I hadn’t read any of the previous books in this series, based on the book’s description, I thought I would be fine jumping into this fourth installment, and, for the most part, I was…</p>
<p>I’m a sucker for books featuring heroes who ride bikes, and when you add in a tight-knit group of former military men who run a motorcycle shop and secretly help women escape from domestic abuse, well, I can’t help but be drawn to the story, and this was exactly the case with <i>Last Day of My Life</i>. Although I hadn’t read any of the previous books in this series, based on the book’s description, I thought I would be fine jumping into this fourth installment, and, for the most part, I was easily able to follow the featured couple’s journey to find their way back to each other after a mysterious tragic situation tore them apart seven years ago.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The structure of the book was different from what I expected, and the narrative stretches over a lengthy period of time. The book opens with a prologue that summarizes how a young Winter and Jack meet and fall in love. Jack is a soldier heading back for his second deployment, and the couple’s tearful goodbye is only meant to be temporary, but their designated course together isn’t meant to be. The actual story really begins seven years later and is narrated by a woman who calls herself, “Jane” since a violent, horrific “accident” years ago left her with amnesia and the need for a lot of rehabilitative therapy. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Although readers are aware “Jane” is Winter, we don’t know any of the circumstances leading up to the life-threatening trauma she experienced all those years ago and why someone still wants her dead. The plot of the story centers on the unexpected reunion between Winter and Jack, the rekindling of their romance, and the search for answers about what happened to Winter while Jack was away on deployment. I liked the second chance at love aspect of the novel, but I did have trouble feeling the strong connection and bond these two have in the here and now, and I think this may be because of the plot’s structure. The prologue only <i>summarizes</i> the love and passion that grew between them, so I never really experienced the depth of their feelings for each other.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>I found Jack’s character to have greater dimension and complexity in comparison to Winter. His range of emotions, from joy that the woman he has always loved is alive to the guilt he feels for not being there to protect her, are clearly and realistically depicted. On the other hand, there are instances where I felt Winter lacked the appropriate reactions or emotions that a scene warranted. For example, she doesn’t seem all that worried or concerned that someone wants to cause her harm, and sometimes her behavior is much too light-hearted for the gravity of the situation. The author does do a good job of narrating the story from both Winter’s and Jack’s POVs, and the shift in perspectives is always clear.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>After finishing the book, I wish I had started at the beginning of the series, since the author doesn’t provide as much exposition and details about the origination of the Freebirds and the supporting cast of characters who play important roles in the story. Despite my issues with characterization, the mystery behind Winter’s amnesia and physical scars kept me motivated to read on, and when the truth is finally revealed at the end, it is even more unsavory than I imagined. The author provides a lengthy epilogue which nicely wraps up this couple’s journey and satisfied my curiosity.</p>
<p>Source: I received an ARC of this book from the author to provide an honest and fair review.</p>
<p> Link to Blog Post: </p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/07/15/book-tour-review-guest-post-giveaway-for-last-day-of-my-life-freebirds-4/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/07/15/book-tour-review-guest-post-giveaway-for-last-day-of-my-life-freebirds-4/</a></p>Review of Grayson's Surrender & Taking Cover by Catherine Manntag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-06-03:6621382:BlogPost:443382014-06-03T01:22:40.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>Catherine Mann is a well-known author in the military romance genre, and since I have enjoyed reading other romantic suspense novels that she has written, I was glad for the opportunity to review <i>Grayson’s Surrender</i> and <i>Taking Cover</i>. Both titles were published separately in 2002 but have now been combined and re-released this year. Although both novels may be categorized as contemporary romance, I was pleased to discover that <i>Taking Cover</i> has some elements of romantic…</p>
<p>Catherine Mann is a well-known author in the military romance genre, and since I have enjoyed reading other romantic suspense novels that she has written, I was glad for the opportunity to review <i>Grayson’s Surrender</i> and <i>Taking Cover</i>. Both titles were published separately in 2002 but have now been combined and re-released this year. Although both novels may be categorized as contemporary romance, I was pleased to discover that <i>Taking Cover</i> has some elements of romantic suspense, which drew me into the plot, perhaps more so than <i>Grayson’s Surrender</i>. Nevertheless, both of these novels are great reads that quickly and easily pulled me into the lives of these fearless Air Force heroes and the courageous heroines who capture their hearts. “Anything, Anywhere, Anytime” is their motto, and in both novels, the main characters’ actions certainly show this to be the case.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Before I respond to each novel individually, I want to point out the similarities that I found between both stories. </p>
<p>-The heroes are dedicated, brave and honorable men who fear commitment and avoid getting too close to the women they date.</p>
<p>-The heroines are strong-willed and self-reliant, with type-A personalities that entice and challenge their men.</p>
<p>-Each couple as well as many of the supporting characters are multi-dimensional and are imbued with qualities and flaws that make them seem real and believable. Mann does a great job in developing each featured character’s appearance, personality, patterns of behavior, and backstory to lend depth to and strengthen that character’s emotional arc.</p>
<p>-Both novels are narrated from a third-person point of view so readers can get into the minds of each hero and heroine and follow their internal struggles. I am impressed with how smoothly Mann shifts from one character’s perspective to another even within the same scene. This is not easy to accomplish, but Mann does it extremely well.</p>
<p>-The love scenes are sensual rather than overly explicit in nature.</p>
<p>-Both stories have a HEA resolution that left me sighing in contentment.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Grayson’s Surrender</i></b></p>
<p>This is a well-written romance that describes a couple’s efforts to rekindle their relationship a year after they walked away from each other. Major Grayson, “Gray” Clark has the rare distinction of serving as both a pilot and flight surgeon in the Air Force. He thinks he has a great life, everything he wants…except for the one woman he can’t seem to forget, Lori Rutledge.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When a mission to rescue orphans from a war-torn Eastern European village brings Gray and Lori together, their response to each other and the tense dialogue between them clearly show they haven’t closed the door for good on their relationship. Their different ideas of what a future together would entail created a chasm that eventually tore them apart. Lori wants marriage and a family, but the most Gray is willing to offer is living together. Now, even though their reunion is awkward and unsettling, and Gray knows he will be moving away soon, he sees an opportunity to have closure with Lori so they can part on amicable terms. Gray sees the special relationship blossoming between Lori and Magda, one of the orphaned girls rescued, and implements a plan to make all three of them happy. By supporting and encouraging the growing bond between this woman and child, Gray thinks he is giving Lori the family he can’t provide, so he can walk away with no regrets. Unfortunately, Gray doesn’t count on his heart getting involved, which causes his plan to backfire. As Gray begins spending more time with Lori and Magda, he realizes that doing so is only making it harder to walk away from them. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>This story is full of ironic situations, like this. The more Gray’s plans fall into place, the less happy he is about the outcome. Furthermore, one of the major reasons Gray refuses to settle down is because of his parents’ marriage. Ironically, Gray’s parents play a significant role in bridging the gap between the couple. His mother is amazingly intuitive and persistent in gently nudging her son toward the happiness that awaits him if he’ll only step up and embrace it. Although a man of few words and generally distant, Gray’s father provides the wisdom that leads Gray to question his choices.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Although the plot is fairly predictable the dynamic characters are what make this story so enjoyable. The rescue mission itself is one of my favorite scenes because it really shows the characters’ moral fiber when you see them in action, handling each crisis that arises with skill and finesse. Another favorite scene is the climax which will easily sweep the romantics-at-heart off their feet. Be forewarned, you may find yourself swooning.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><b><i>Taking Cover</i></b></p>
<p>Between the two stories, <i>Taking Cover</i> is my favorite. The drama centers around flight surgeon, Dr. Kathleen O’Connell and “hot shot” pilot, Tanner “Bronco” Bennett. Kathleen is a big believer in following the rules while Tanner likes to break them, and the sparks fly from their frequent verbal sparring. The slight antagonism they display toward each other is really just an effort to mask the intense mutual attraction between them that neither wants to admit.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When they cause a public scene in an argument over Tanner’s need for medical treatment, their commander assigns them to work together on an investigation of a recent C-17 crash. Their mission is two-fold: discover the cause of the crash and prove they can work as a team.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Forced to spend time together, Kathleen and Tanner try to set aside their difference and maintain a professional working relationship during the investigation. However, now they can no longer escape dealing with the metaphorical elephant that’s been in the room with them for the past twelve years: the unresolved passion and lust brimming just beneath the surface whenever they are around each other. Many of their dialogues are teeming with sexual tension, which makes for an interesting read. Despite their differences, Kathleen and Tanner have a charisma and passion that make them a well-suited couple.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Another intriguing aspect that I enjoyed in this story is the increasingly dangerous complications Kathleen and Tanner encounter as they get closer to solving the mystery behind the plane crash. The second half of the book is suspenseful and will put Kathleen’s and Tanner’s teamwork skills to the test, and this time their survival depends on their success. <i>Taking Cover</i> is also a well-written story with a unified and cohesive plot that makes for an engrossing read.</p>
<p>Source: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to provide an honest review. </p>
<p>Link to Review:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/06/02/review-of-graysons-surrender-taking-cover-by-catherine-mann/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/06/02/review-of-graysons-surrender-taking-cover-by-catherine-mann/</a></p>Review of Honor Reclaimed (HORNET # 2) by Tonya Burrowstag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-05-31:6621382:BlogPost:444092014-05-31T01:25:30.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>After reading the first book in the HORNET series, I thought Burrows was off to a very good start in her creation of this rag-tag group of men from different military and law enforcement backgrounds who have joined the HORNETs unit, a group of private military contractors who specialize in hostage rescue missions. Now, after reading this second installment, <i>Honor Reclaimed</i>, I can say with certainty that this a series that readers of romantic suspense should consider because of the…</p>
<p>After reading the first book in the HORNET series, I thought Burrows was off to a very good start in her creation of this rag-tag group of men from different military and law enforcement backgrounds who have joined the HORNETs unit, a group of private military contractors who specialize in hostage rescue missions. Now, after reading this second installment, <i>Honor Reclaimed</i>, I can say with certainty that this a series that readers of romantic suspense should consider because of the wonderfully flawed cast of characters and the well-balanced mix of action-oriented suspense and tension-fueled romance. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The title itself and opening quote for <i>Honor Reclaimed</i> are fitting to describe the hero’s story, former POW marine, Seth Harlan, who is the newest probationary member of the HORNET team. In the preface, Burrows quotes Khalil Gibran: “Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.” This statement sums up Seth’s character so well, his struggles with PTSD and survivor’s guilt, and most of all, his deep yearning to belong again.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Seth was invited to join HORNETs at the end of the first book because of his exemplary sniper skills, but readers don’t actually meet his character until now. The other team members are wary of Seth. They see him as a wild card, unpredictable and unstable because of his PTSD. At the start of the book, Seth is an outcast who hasn’t been fully accepted into the unit, and the frequent mistakes he keeps making during training exercises only exacerbates the existing tension between him and the rest of the team. His teammates don’t trust him, and Seth knows it. Until he can prove that he is an asset to the unit, his future with the HORNETs is questionable.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When the HORNET unit accepts a case to rescue a soldier who has been captured by an Afghani terrorist, Jahangir Siddiqui, while on a black ops mission, the team must travel to Afghanistan, and Seth is horrified and panicked at the thought of having to return to the place where his worst nightmares occurred. His PTST stems from his last mission in Afghanistan where he lost his entire team in an attack, and he was taken prisoner and tortured for 15 months before being rescued. Seth is deeply physically and emotionally scarred from his ordeal and is weighed down by survivor’s guilt. In many ways, he has emotionally shut down, but he knows this latest mission will put him to the ultimate test. If he can’t pull himself together and perform successfully, his career with the HORNETs is over.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Once back in Afghanistan, Seth’s memories of his time there become sharper and, at times, threaten to overwhelm him and make it difficult to do his job. It’s hard to read Seth’s story without being affected by his heart-breaking experience. Burrows has done a good job in bringing to light the pain and struggles of a man fighting to hold on to his humanity and to find peace despite all the horror he has endured. Seth is stronger and more courageous than he thinks. He is a survivor, and his perseverance and determination are admirable and inspiring.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The heroine of the story is Phoebe Leighton, a photojournalist working in Afghanistan who writes stories about the plight of women and young girls. Her most recent story about child brides puts her in danger after she begins asking too many dangerous questions that threaten the political future of Siddiqui, the same man the HORNETs are trying to find. Their dangerous circumstances bring Phoebe and Seth together, and she begins helping with the team’s mission. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Phoebe finds Seth intriguing, and the harder she works to get to know him better, the more she finds herself caring deeply about this stoic man who keeps others at a distance. Phoebe sees the beauty of the man behind his scars and she wants so much to help Seth. Surprisingly, Seth discovers that being around Phoebe calms him. He is more relaxed and less jumpy. Even the rest of the team notice that Phoebe has a stabilizing effect on Seth, and they hope that will help him keep his head in the game. Seth is drawn to Phoebe and is surprised at how much he enjoys her company. Their romance evolves slowly but the passion between them sizzles in the love scenes, which are explicit.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>However, Phoebe is far from perfect. She’s made mistakes in her past, one in particular that she’s can’t bring herself to share with Seth. Her shame and guilt over what she’s done have led her to try to make a fresh start, and she hopes to make atonement by using her writing and photography skills to bring awareness of the problems of others to the public’s attention. Phoebe’s character is flawed but real, and one lesson she must learn is that no matter how hard we try, we can never escape from our past. The aftereffects of the mistakes we’ve made often linger, and until we face the repercussions head on, we can never really leave the past behind and move forward. This is what Phoebe has to do, but she risks losing Seth for good.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>In this second installment, I see the supporting characters developing and becoming more rounded. For example, Quinn’s brain injury from a previous accident continues to affect his work, and he worries he won’t be able to stay on the team. Ian finally makes a friend, and readers get a glimpse of the real man behind the sneering, indifferent, and cold-hearted veneer that Ian wears so well. The HORNETs are still far from the cohesive group they need to be. Their different personalities, experiences, and emotional wounds have molded some of the team members into men who don’t always play well with others. Their endeavors to learn how to work together add another layer of richness to the plot so the story never stagnates. Just as in real life, change isn’t always immediate, and it will take time for the team to build trust.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The plot is more complex that I originally anticipated and full of conflict. The first half of the book focuses on rescuing the imprisoned soldier from Siddiqui’s compound, and in the second part, the stakes become higher as the HORNET team try to keep Siddiqui from possessing a suitcase-sized nuclear weapon. The pacing is effective and the action and suspense intensify as the story progresses. The importance of forgiveness, redemption, and trust are three key themes running throughout the story. To sum up, this was a great read!</p>
<p>Source: Received an ARC of the book from the publisher for an honest review. </p>
<p> Link to Review:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/05/27/review-of-honor-reclaimed-hornet-2/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/05/27/review-of-honor-reclaimed-hornet-2/</a></p>Review of Troubled Son (Savage Sons MC #1) by Jayna Kingtag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-05-13:6621382:BlogPost:397622014-05-13T20:18:13.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>I haven’t read very many biker themed books, but I was attracted to this storyline about Max, an FBI agent who must infiltrate an outlaw MC and work undercover with Moses, a member of the gang who wants to bring down the Savage Sons and start a new life. While I was pleased with the chemistry and character development, I was hoping for more danger and suspense before the book’s climax.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Max and Moses come from two vastly different social worlds, and one of Max’s biggest…</p>
<p>I haven’t read very many biker themed books, but I was attracted to this storyline about Max, an FBI agent who must infiltrate an outlaw MC and work undercover with Moses, a member of the gang who wants to bring down the Savage Sons and start a new life. While I was pleased with the chemistry and character development, I was hoping for more danger and suspense before the book’s climax.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Max and Moses come from two vastly different social worlds, and one of Max’s biggest challenges is whether she can actually transform into a woman who can pass as a biker chick and most importantly, Moses’ “old lady.” Max is a down-to-earth woman who is calm, cool, and collected throughout the book. I admire her ability to adapt to this coarse lifestyle where women are treated as sex objects, the profanity is excessive, and criminal activity abounds. If the MC finds out who she really is, then not only is her life in jeopardy but Moses’ is as well. Leaving the club is not an option for its members unless it’s in a body bag. King does a very good job of describing what goes on behind the doors of an outlaw gang heavily involved in prostitution and drug distribution. It’s a harsh, dangerous life for these characters, and the author doesn’t hold back in her depiction of this biker world.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Moses has grown up with the Savage Sons, since his father started the club. He has the dominating, tattooed, rough around the edges personality I expected for the book’s bad-boy hero. However, Moses is a mass of contradictions; there is so much more to this alpha male with a cocky swagger. Max is very attracted to the controlling, hardened biker side of Moses, but she finds herself falling for the tender side of Moses that he tries to keep hidden, the side that craves peace from the chaos that surrounds him and searches for a way to find redemption. The author narrates the story from both Max’s and Moses’ POVs, which worked well to help me connect with the characters.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Much of the book focuses on the burgeoning romance between Max and Moses, and King spends a great amount of time developing the chemistry between them and building sexual tension. They don’t actually act on their feelings until the latter part of the book and the love scenes are steamy and explicit. I liked the romantic angle of the book, but at times I thought Max was focused more on her emotions and less on the job she’s hired to do, especially toward the end. I also found other aspects of the plot that could have been stronger.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The story starts off very slowly and many of the scenes describe Max’s preparation to go undercover rather than her in deep covert mode, which was disappointing. The scenes where she has to prove herself are interesting but lacked the intensity and action I anticipated. Fortunately, there is a surprising twist in the book that adds an element of danger and leads to a suspenseful climax with an unexpected outcome. King warns readers beforehand not to expect a “Happy Ever AFTER ending…yet,” and it’s this promise that makes me curious to continue reading the series.</p>
<p> Source: I won an e-copy of this book through an author giveaway.</p>
<p>Link to Review:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/05/06/review-of-troubled-son-savage-sons-motorcycle-club-1/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/05/06/review-of-troubled-son-savage-sons-motorcycle-club-1/</a></p>Review of Seeress (Runes # 3) by Ednah Walterstag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-05-06:6621382:BlogPost:391972014-05-06T14:35:36.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>Walters has done it again by releasing another captivating installment in her imaginative Runes series that brings Norse Mythology to life and takes readers into a world where Valkyries, Immortals, and Grimnirs hide in plain sight unbeknownst to mortals around them as they carry out the bidding of their gods and goddesses. Because of her supernatural lineage the young heroine of the series, Raine Cooper, has now become part of this paranormal world, learning to create magical runes and…</p>
<p>Walters has done it again by releasing another captivating installment in her imaginative Runes series that brings Norse Mythology to life and takes readers into a world where Valkyries, Immortals, and Grimnirs hide in plain sight unbeknownst to mortals around them as they carry out the bidding of their gods and goddesses. Because of her supernatural lineage the young heroine of the series, Raine Cooper, has now become part of this paranormal world, learning to create magical runes and discovering her powers as a Seeress. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>I recommend readers new to this series read the books in sequential order to fully understand and appreciate the comprehensive plot that expands in each installment. However, Walters does an excellent job of providing ample exposition throughout the novel to explain and remind readers of important events that occurred in the previous books that remain relevant to this novel’s storyline. She also includes a glossary at the beginning of each installment to help readers become familiar with the Norse terminology frequently used in the narration and dialogue.</p>
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<p>Since Raine has learned that she is an extremely powerful Seeress, the one destined to foresee the start of “Ragnarok” or the war leading to the end of the world, her elevated status has made her a target in the Immortal world for those seeking to use her gifts for their own agendas. The Norns continue to antagonize Raine in their efforts to get her to join them, and now a new threat has emerged, one connected to Torin’s past that will test the solidarity of Raine and Torin’s relationship. Finally, I was so glad to learn more about Torin’s family and some painful moments of his past that continue to haunt him.</p>
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<p>The attraction and chemistry between Raine and Torin is still as strong as ever, and although they have some intense make out sessions, I admire the restraint they show before letting things go too far. I can appreciate that they are taking their relationship slowly, especially since Raine has experienced so much change in her life in such a short amount of time. Raine isn’t as snarky as when she was first introduced; she’s more serious but still has the feisty streak in her that I like. She also still does a lot of drooling over Torin, which at times was a bit much for me, but I guess it’s typical for a seventeen-year-old who’s in love.</p>
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<p>I was glad that many of the supporting characters I’ve grown fond of and have become invested in, such as Andris, Cora, Echo, and Eirik play active roles in this story, and many of these characters continue to grow and change, so they don’t become static and predictable. Andris is still the flamboyant Valkyrie who is endearing one minute and infuriating the next, but in this novel he seems more subdued. Ingrid is becoming stronger and more expressive than she has before. And Eirik’s behavior is becoming more erratic. His attitude hints that he has experienced some traumatic events during his stay in Hel. I hope he will be featured more prominently in the near future.</p>
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<p>Walters kept me engaged the entire time as I followed Raine’s journey in learning to discern and control the premonitions she begins to have when she touches people or objects. Her visions are confusing and disturbing and call into question whom Raine can trust. Just as in the previous books, not all is as it seems, and Walters continued to surprise me all the way to the end. I look forward to what’s next for Raine and the gang.</p>
<p>Source: I received an ARC of this book from the author to provide an honest review.</p>
<p>Blog Tour for Seeress:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/05/02/blog-tour-review-giveaway-for-seeress-runes-3/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/05/02/blog-tour-review-giveaway-for-seeress-runes-3/</a></p>Review & Giveaway of Kit & Ivy: A Red Team Wedding Novella (Red Team 3a)tag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-04-28:6621382:BlogPost:382712014-04-28T14:52:01.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>If you’re a fan of the Red Team series, I’m sure, like me, you are looking forward to the fourth novel, <i>Twisted Mercy</i>, which is scheduled to release this summer. In the meantime, Levine has written a novella to keep readers up-to-date on the happenings at the Red Team compound, and this is a quick, fun read that will whet your appetite for more of the action and romance that Levine is sure to provide in upcoming installments of this great romantic suspense series.</p>
<p>Readers are…</p>
<p>If you’re a fan of the Red Team series, I’m sure, like me, you are looking forward to the fourth novel, <i>Twisted Mercy</i>, which is scheduled to release this summer. In the meantime, Levine has written a novella to keep readers up-to-date on the happenings at the Red Team compound, and this is a quick, fun read that will whet your appetite for more of the action and romance that Levine is sure to provide in upcoming installments of this great romantic suspense series.</p>
<p>Readers are given a brief reprieve from the team’s major conflict with a terrorist organization operating on U.S. soil, and the plot of this novella focuses more on interpersonal conflicts within this tightly-knit group in the events leading up to Kit and Ivy’s wedding day. Even though Kit and Ivy are happily together now, they still have some relationship wrinkles to work through. Kit is a dominant, decisive alpha male, and these personality traits, which make him a great leader, have created conflict in his personal relationship with Ivy, a strong, independent woman who wants to be an equal partner. When Kit makes a unilateral decision about</p>
<p>Ivy’s parents’ involvement in their wedding and only tells Ivy afterwards, he creates more contention for an already stressed-out Ivy who has yet to deal with the grief and pain her parents caused so many years ago. Although Kit’s intentions are good, I have to disagree with his methods for trying to make peace with the future in-laws. There’s no doubt, Kit’s actions make a good topic for further discussion.</p>
<p>Sniper warrior, Val, who isn’t afraid to get in touch with his feminine side, makes the occasion special for Ivy and her bridesmaids by planning an event to help them all find just the right ensemble. He’s also the only male allowed into Ivy’s private bachelorette party where the gals’ silly antics leave the rest of the men a bit on edge. While these light-hearted, up-beat scenes dominate the book, Levine subtly moves other characters’ storylines forward by, for example, hinting that all is not as well with Rocco as we might think, and, Selena, the newest addition to the team is turning more than one Red Team member’s head even though a relationship is the last thing on her mind.</p>
<p>I think all fans of the series will enjoy Levine’s latest Red Team release. If you are interested in reading the series, keep in mind that it is one that must be read in sequential order.</p>
<p> Enter the giveaway for your chance to win a copy of this novella:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/04/22/mini-review-giveaway-for-kit-ivy-a-red-team-wedding-novella-red-team-3a/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/04/22/mini-review-giveaway-for-kit-ivy-a-red-team-wedding-novella-red-team-3a/</a></p>Review of Voodoo on Bayou LaFontetag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-04-08:6621382:BlogPost:351902014-04-08T16:50:05.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><i>Voodoo on Bayou LaFonte</i> is an engaging read from start to finish. Muller takes readers deep into the alligator infested swampland of bayou country, where Remy and his ex-wife desperately search for their teenage daughter who has mysteriously disappeared. Set in a rural Louisiana parish richly steeped in culture, heritage, and superstition, the locale itself is filled with conflict and described in such rich multisensory detail that it becomes a complex character in and of itself,…</p>
<p><i>Voodoo on Bayou LaFonte</i> is an engaging read from start to finish. Muller takes readers deep into the alligator infested swampland of bayou country, where Remy and his ex-wife desperately search for their teenage daughter who has mysteriously disappeared. Set in a rural Louisiana parish richly steeped in culture, heritage, and superstition, the locale itself is filled with conflict and described in such rich multisensory detail that it becomes a complex character in and of itself, welcoming in some ways and antagonistic in others.</p>
<p>Houston Homicide Detective Remy Steinberg loathes returning to Louisiana, the home he left behind years ago that holds nothing for him now but memories of bitterness and regret. Although the bayou will still prove to be a hindrance in his quest to find his daughter, Remy will also discover that this place still has a strong hold over him as well. During his stay with his ex-wife Gabby, he is reminded of all the good times he and Gabby shared, and he realizes that although he physically left the bayou behind, his heart has always remained here with Gabby and his daughter, Adrienne.</p>
<p>The contention between Gabby and Remy is thick when they reunite, and it becomes clear very quickly why their marriage failed –the lack of clear communication combined with Remy’s stubborn pride and Gabby’s quick-temperedness. Once they begin their joint search, they realize they must work through their issues if they are to make any significant progress in finding Adrienne. Both behave in some pretty frustrating ways at times, so that I can understand why they couldn’t always get along. However, unlike before, this time, they cannot just go their separate ways, not until they get Adrienne back. Despite their communication problems, the love between Remy and Gabby still lingers, and as their partnership becomes stronger, so does the intimacy between them. Their rekindled romance is mildly sensual, and the details of their love scenes are not graphically depicted. The emphasis is more on Remy’s and Gabby’s feelings and emotions rather than the physical connection.</p>
<p>Gabby and Remy’s relationship never overshadows or detracts from the novel’s main plot focus: to find Adrienne. In fact, all of the story threads – dark voodoo practices, illegal drug running, corrupt police officials, and swampland predators are smoothly entwined to create a well-executed plot filled with danger and suspense. The story has a clear and satisfying resolution that I must admit also left me with a craving for a big bowl of spicy Jambalaya!</p>
<p> I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.</p>
<p>Link to Review:</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/04/07/book-tour-review-giveaway-for-voodoo-on-bayou-lafonte/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/04/07/book-tour-review-giveaway-for-voodoo-on-bayou-lafonte/</a></p>
<p> </p>Review of Mine to Crave (Crave # 4) by Cynthia Edentag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-03-24:6621382:BlogPost:341752014-03-24T14:32:34.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>Cynthia Eden is a prolific romance writer and has written a number of series that have caught my interest. Although I have read and greatly enjoyed her For Me series, I had not had the chance to read any of the books in the Mine series until now with this fourth installment. When I began reading the book, I soon realized that characters and aspects from previous storylines in the series are more interconnected than I expected, and I worried that I might not be able to fully enjoy and…</p>
<p>Cynthia Eden is a prolific romance writer and has written a number of series that have caught my interest. Although I have read and greatly enjoyed her For Me series, I had not had the chance to read any of the books in the Mine series until now with this fourth installment. When I began reading the book, I soon realized that characters and aspects from previous storylines in the series are more interconnected than I expected, and I worried that I might not be able to fully enjoy and appreciate this novel since I hadn’t started the series from the beginning. However, I am glad to report that this was not the case at all. Eden provides enough exposition and description about the hero, Drake Archer and his close friends, Trace and Noah, who have been featured in previous installments for me to follow this novel’s storyline just fine, so I had no problems with reading it as a standalone novel.</p>
<p>Drake Archer’s cold attitude and cynicism, especially toward women is apparent from the first page of the book, and I admit I was taken aback at his austere demeanor and adamant belief that women are objects for sexual gratification and easily discarded. Although Eden provides enough details of Drake’s backstory to help me understand his jaded perspective, I still didn’t warm up to him until much later in the book. For a man who is so distrustful of women, I was surprised at how quickly Jasmine Bennett, despite her attempts to deceive him, becomes the object of Drake’s desire: “He looked at her, and he ached.” He touched her, and he craved.” </p>
<p>Even though Drake’s is sometimes harsh in his treatment of Jasmine, there is always an undertone of gentleness when he is with her that reveals the depth of this man’s character. So what makes Jasmine so special, especially since she does set out to betray Drake? She defies his expectations of her at every pivotal moment which surprises and intrigues him. Only after he finally begins to accept his growing feelings toward Jasmine does he begin to soften up and become more multi-dimensional.</p>
<p>Despite the mistakes Jasmine has made, I like her. She is definitely not an innocent unwittingly caught up in the fight between Drake and an antagonist from his past. She made choices and committed criminal acts that brought her into the enemy’s camp. Some of her poor decisions have been based on self-preservation, but deep down she is a good person, and her willingness to accept the consequences for her actions and to protect others kept me rooting for her to find a way out of her situation. Jasmine longs to find love and find a place where she belongs, and a central question throughout the book is whether a man as hardened as Drake Archer can be the man she needs.</p>
<p>The novel is a smooth blend of action, danger and romance with some pretty scorching love scenes that are a bit edgier than what I’ve encountered in her other books. <i>Mine to Crave</i> was a good read and has motivated me to want to go back and read the rest of the series.</p>
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<p>Source: I received a complimentary copy of this book to provide an honest review.</p>
<p>Link to Review</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/03/24/blog-tour-review-giveaway-for-mine-to-crave-mine-4/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/03/24/blog-tour-review-giveaway-for-mine-to-crave-mine-4/</a></p>
<p> </p>Review of Caught in the Crosshair by Barb Hantag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-03-21:6621382:BlogPost:343332014-03-21T14:36:17.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><i>Caught in the Crosshair</i> is an inviting blend of tension-filled romance and suspense between Lauren and Jaden whose romance blossoms in the midst of a dangerous situation revolving around a South American Cartel, a rescue attempt, an island hurricane, and escapes from a constant barrage of bullets. Hans pulled me into the book quickly and easily by starting off with adrenaline-packed action that is practically non-stop in the first half of the book. I initially had a difficult time…</p>
<p><i>Caught in the Crosshair</i> is an inviting blend of tension-filled romance and suspense between Lauren and Jaden whose romance blossoms in the midst of a dangerous situation revolving around a South American Cartel, a rescue attempt, an island hurricane, and escapes from a constant barrage of bullets. Hans pulled me into the book quickly and easily by starting off with adrenaline-packed action that is practically non-stop in the first half of the book. I initially had a difficult time finding a stopping place to take a break and was actually quite surprised at how quickly I finished the book.</p>
<p>After learning that her brother Max has been kidnapped by a cartel he was once associated with, Lauren is determined to do whatever is necessary to rescue Max, trusting that it will be as simple as handing over cash in exchange for her brother’s release. Unfortunately, Lauren’s arrival on the island of Antigua brings her even more trouble until Jaden Dean comes to her rescue, and Lauren finds herself increasingly relying upon Jaden’s expertise and protective nature to keep her safe and locate Max. Jaden and his operatives are on a mission to bring down this vicious cartel, and Jaden has a personal interest in the takedown since the cartel goons have already killed several of his team members. Perilous circumstances bring Jaden and Lauren together, and they bond in their quest to survive.</p>
<p>The couple’s journey is teeming with conflict and drama. The villains they face are one-dimensional clichéd “bad guys” except for the major antagonist whose identity isn’t revealed until very close to the end. However, Hans provides enough clues along the way so that it is wasn’t too difficult for me to figure out the final enemy. People aren’t the only external conflicts in the book. Jaden and Lauren also get caught in a terrifying hurricane and the obstacles they encounter are vividly described and suspenseful, making this my favorite part of the book.</p>
<p>Hans does a very good job of putting Lauren and Jaden’s romantic relationship at the heart of the story and effectively weaving it into the dramatic suspense that is a major component in the unfolding plot. The couple’s growing intimacy is strongly connected to the decisions they each make, increasing the tension of the suspense and furthering the plot. The attraction and chemistry between them emerges very early in the book and as the story progresses their interest in each other feels genuine. They offer a warmth and support to each other that neither realized had been lacking in their lives. This isn’t an insta-love relationship, but it’s awfully close. I do have to keep in mind, though, the length of the book which doesn’t allow time for a long-drawn out process of falling in love.</p>
<p>The story really centers on the protagonists’ romance and rescue of Max, and, overall, Hans has developed this part of the plot very well. However, I think the broader scope and backstory of Jaden and his team’s history with the cartel could have been fleshed out more. Hans offers enough information to give you the gist of what has happened to explain some of the characters’ motivations, but, the details are too vague for my satisfaction. I also found two of the most anticipated events, the rescue of Max and the climatic showdown to be much less dramatic than I expected.</p>
<p>While Jaden’s and Lauren’s characters are well-rounded, I was surprised that the supporting characters, those part of Jaden’s team are minimally developed, so I felt no emotional connection to any of them. I am keeping in mind, however, that this book is not part of a series, and these secondary characters are not going to become featured in future books. Hans has plenty of material to work with, though, if she decides to expand this novel into a series.</p>
<p>If you are looking for a fast-paced romantic suspense with a tidy ending, then check out this novel.</p>
<p>I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.</p>
<p>Rating 3.5</p>
<p>Link to Review</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/03/21/book-tour-review-of-caught-in-the-crosshair/comment-page-1/#comment-2856">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/03/21/book-tour-review-of-caught-in-the-crosshair/comment-page-1/#comment-2856</a></p>Reviews of Julia Heaberlin's novels: Lie Still & Playing Deadtag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-03-19:6621382:BlogPost:341262014-03-19T15:09:43.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p><strong>Review of <em>Lie Still</em></strong></p>
<p>Lie Still appealed to me because it is set in North Texas, where I live, and Heaberlin does a great job of emphasizing the regional characteristics of this area, its locale, expressions, food, and the overall idiosyncrasies that distinguish Texas from anywhere else. Although Heaberlin may be considered a regional writer, the themes of her novels are certainly universal, transcending geographical limitations. <br></br> <br></br> Heaberlin has woven…</p>
<p><strong>Review of <em>Lie Still</em></strong></p>
<p>Lie Still appealed to me because it is set in North Texas, where I live, and Heaberlin does a great job of emphasizing the regional characteristics of this area, its locale, expressions, food, and the overall idiosyncrasies that distinguish Texas from anywhere else. Although Heaberlin may be considered a regional writer, the themes of her novels are certainly universal, transcending geographical limitations. <br/> <br/> Heaberlin has woven together a twisty-turny mystery thriller that will keep you guessing right up until the end. The story centers on Emily and her husband Mike who have moved down from New York because Mike has taken the job as the new police chief. Because of Mike’s importance in the fictional town of Clairmont, Emily is invited into an elite circle of wealthy women led by the socially powerful but bizarre Caroline. I believe Heaberlin when she states at the end of the book:<br/> <br/> <strong>“ None of the crazy, diabolical Southern women in this book are based on a real person. Most of the Texas women I know are quite nice, thank you, and don’t go around eating Little Debbie cakes with a rifle riding in the trunk of their cars.”</strong><b> </b><br/> <br/> My book club had a lively discussion over whether the quirky female characters prevalent throughout the book, especially former beauty queen, Lettie, who constantly diets, flaunts her supposed lineage to General Lee, and wields a gun as casually as most people handle blow dryers are realistic. I see them as caricatures, embodying some of the stereotypes associated with southern women. The thought of these women actually existing leaves me quaking in my boots.<br/> <br/> Through Emily’s character, Heaberlin delves into the devastation of date rape and its long lasting psychological effects. Emily has never fully dealt with an event from college that forever changed her life. Now in Clairmont, when Caroline goes missing, Emily finds her past catching up to her. Clarimont is full of secrets and denial won’t always work to keep the evil at bay. <br/> <br/> Heaberlin balances the dark moments of the book with some laugh out humorous scenes that give readers a brief reprieve from the otherwise serious and deadly underlying tone that permeates the book. <br/> <br/> All in all a very good read!</p>
<p> </p>
<p> <strong>Review of <em>Playing Dead</em></strong></p>
<p>Playing Dead is my favorite between both of Heaberlin’s novels, and one of the reasons is because Ponder, Texas really does exist, and it's in my neck of the woods.</p>
<p>Tommie Mcloud is the protagonist of the book, daughter of a prominent ranch owner whose entire world gets turned upside down after she receives a letter from an infamous Chicago mobster’s wife who makes Tommie begin to question her own identity and what secrets her family may be hiding.</p>
<p>Since her father has recently died and her mother suffers from dementia, Tommie begins to search for answers on her own, but she quickly discovers that uncovering the truth could cost her and the rest of her family their very lives. No longer knowing whom to trust, Tommie turns to her old flame, Hudson Byrd, whose military experience and connections help her move forward in her personal investigation. Reluctant to get romantically attached to Hudson again, Tommie tries to keep her distance from Hudson, while still relying on his help. Yet by doing so, she puts herself in some dangerous situations that could have been avoided if she’d just listened to Hudson. While the rekindling of their romance adds a layer of depth to the story, it is secondary to the overall plot of who Tommie is and how her family is linked to the mafia and the decades old murders that are somehow connected. Besides some hot kisses, the romance is clean, and intimate scenes are implied rather than overtly described.</p>
<p>The mystery shrouding Tommie’s identity isn’t fully resolved until the last 10% of the book when all of the pieces of the puzzle finally begin to fit together leading up to one big surprise that I never anticipated. Playing Dead was definitely an engaging and suspenseful read!</p>
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<p> Link to Reviews</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/03/16/reviews-of-lie-still-playing-dead-by-julia-heaberlin/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/03/16/reviews-of-lie-still-playing-dead-by-julia-heaberlin/</a></p>Review of Shadow of Deceit by Mal Olsentag:literaryaddicts.ning.com,2014-03-19:6621382:BlogPost:340662014-03-19T14:45:11.000ZBarbara Ann RShttps://literaryaddicts.ning.com/profile/BarbaraAnnRS
<p>Mal Olsen’s <i>Shadow of Deceit</i> is a romantic suspense brimming with sexual tension between two people dealing with personal tragedies that have left them scarred and afraid to take a chance on love. When Shannon Riedel is threatened and asked to return goods owed from her deceased husband’s unfinished gem mine deal, FBI agent Tony Crazaniak becomes her shadow, sticking to her, as she compares it, like toilet paper stuck to the bottom of one’s shoe. Shannon unwittingly finds herself…</p>
<p>Mal Olsen’s <i>Shadow of Deceit</i> is a romantic suspense brimming with sexual tension between two people dealing with personal tragedies that have left them scarred and afraid to take a chance on love. When Shannon Riedel is threatened and asked to return goods owed from her deceased husband’s unfinished gem mine deal, FBI agent Tony Crazaniak becomes her shadow, sticking to her, as she compares it, like toilet paper stuck to the bottom of one’s shoe. Shannon unwittingly finds herself caught up in a dangerous world of greed, blood diamonds, and terrorists. </p>
<p> The plot of the story is okay; it’s fairly easy to predict upcoming events as Shannon gradually begins to consider the possibility that her husband, Tyler, may have been involved in a lucrative but shady deal. It’s completely understandable that Shannon desperately wants to believe her husband is innocent and that her boss, Rafiel de Rios (an Anthony Bandaros lookalike) could be guilty of the acts Tony suggests. However, I found Shannon to be a frustrating protagonist fighting Tony almost every step of the way in his investigation, even though she’s intrigued by the man and wants to get to know what’s behind the FBI persona Tony projects. She’s threatened, attacked, and followed on numerous occasions, yet she still won’t fully cooperate with Tony, who does everything he can to keep her safe. Even after she grows closer both emotionally and physically, she still withholds evidence essential to the case. Shannon trusts without question those closest to her, but this trait also becomes her greatest weakness making her gullible and vulnerable to the danger surrounding her.</p>
<p> Tony has a personal score to settle with the terrorist, Abdul Ahad, and he is passionate in trying to find the evidence he needs to link Ahad with the diamond mine deal under investigation, and it quickly becomes clear to him that Shannon is key to resolving the case. However, I was surprised at how long he was willing to wait to question Shannon. He wasn’t as aggressive with her as I would have expected, and I think his lack of action was geared toward gaining Shannon’s trust. In the meantime, both Shannon and Tony continuously reflect on their attraction toward each other and their reluctance to take the relationship further. After all, Shannon’s involvement is still questionable, and Tony knows he should maintain a professional distance. Furthermore, even though two years have passed since Shannon lost her family, she still feels getting involved with Tony would be a betrayal to Tyler.</p>
<p>The book has lots of action in the beginning and at the end. The middle of the book moves more slowly and focuses on the internal emotional conflicts Tony and Shannon face and their feelings and growing desire for one another. I found the romantic aspect to have greater emphasis rather than the FBI investigation in the overall plot. Love scenes are explicit and geared toward mature readers. If you’re a romance reader, you should check out Mal Olsen’s work.</p>
<p> Source: I received a copy of the book from the author for an honest review.</p>
<p> Link to Review</p>
<p><a href="http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/03/17/book-tour-giveaway-for-shadow-of-deceit/">http://sunmountainreviews.wordpress.com/2014/03/17/book-tour-giveaway-for-shadow-of-deceit/</a></p>