Paths Not Taken: Nightside Series 5

Paths Not Taken

(Simon R Green)

Pages: 272
Year Published: 2005

Teaser: John Taylor has finally found out who is mother is. She is none other than the first wife of Adam, Lilith, creator of Nightside. So, to find out more about his mother and her destructive future plans he decides to travel to the past to a time before the creation of Nightside. He brings with him a fellow PI, Tommy Oblivion, and his long time 'friend,' the trigger happy Suzie Shooter. (AKA. Holy crap, it's her! RUN!)

Short Thought: More confusing than past novels, but answered a lot of questions and filled in a lot of back story.

Expanded Thoughts: This 5th installment in the Nightside series deviated from the usual 'gumshoe' formula that the others had. The actual 'job' that John receives plays a very small part in this one. The focus was instead on the back story, Nightside and its history, Lilith, and character growth.

That being said, this is a very important novel if you are reading the entire series. It ties up 90% of the plot lines and answers most of the questions that you hadn't even thought to ask yet. It is basically an introduction to the 'BIG SHOWDOWN.'

My only gripe is that the 'time traveling,' paradox' thing really messed with my head. I found it very confusing. So, if you aren't used to reading that kind of sci-fi stuff, be prepared to slow down. (I had to reread some parts 3 times to get the significances and such.)

My apologies for the short review, but honestly I couldn't think of any other way to not give spoilers. This book is chock full of 'em.

Additional Notes: This novel has descriptive violence and dark themes.

Windfall: Weather Warden Series 4

Windfall

(Rachel Caine)

Pages: 352
Year Published: 2005

Teaser: If you thought that Joanne's life was complicated before, you haven't seen anything yet. She has moved back to her hometown in Florida and has taken a job as a cute 'weather girl' at a news studio. Sounds pretty mundane, right? Unfortunately, Joanne stills has to figure out how to deal with David's new Ifrit status before it kills them both, the cop that has been stalking and threatening her since the Ma'at incident, and her privileged sister that has decided to take over her new apartment.

Short Thought: This is the best of this series so far. It reminded me why I like it so much.

Expanded Thoughts: I am seriously hoping that poor Joanne gets a vacation after this one. The girl never gets a break. Since you can read a synopsis of this book in several places, I am just gonna touch on a few things before I close this out.

Mainly, what made this novel better than the other ones in the series?

For me, it comes down to the fact that Joanne is easier to relate to in this one. She has a crappy job. (Not a magical hookie dookie job, a regular 'Joe' type job.) Her family is being crappy to her. (We even get a glimpse at her crappy past.) Her relationship is on the rocks. (Okay, that one is a little magical.) And everyone in the world seems to want her to have a crappy day. It is a brilliant mixture of real life and fantasy that make this book a good one.

This novel just really pulled at the heartstrings and made the reader fall in love with Joanne. (Especially with regard to David's dire situation) It still had the crazy fast paced, world ending drama, but it showed how Joanne was really starting to become affected by it. (Depression, anxiety, etc.) But I guess dying twice and being two different species would give some sort of PTSD to anyone. I personally wouldn't want to find out.

Additional Notes: This novel contains mild violence and sexual situations.

Cast in Fury: Chronicles of Elantra 4

Cast in Fury

(Michelle Sagara)

Pages: 416
Year Published: 2008

Teaser: The public isn't too fond of the Tha'alani, and even believe they are responsible for a tidal wave that crashed down the city recently. So to improve public opinion and ease political relations, the High Court has drafted a eccentric playwright to create a wonderful piece portraying the Tha'alani in a good light. Because of Kaylin and Severn's past work with the Tha'alani, they are assigned to the writer to make sure the play is completed with accuracy. Despite lacking all the necessary skills or tact, Kaylin is once again thrown into an important job with Severn by her side.

Short Thought: The main character was slightly less annoying, but there were no develops or twists to the story.

Expanded Thoughts: This series is slowly getting better. When I read the first book I couldn't stand it, but I forced myself to keep going and it's looking like it is going to pay off.

Let's start with the bad:

My biggest complaint still is that the author has opened up a lot of plot lines and I just hope that they don't became large, gaping holes. Said holes include Kaylin's mysterious pre-hawk years, Severn, Lord Nightshade (who is the best character in the whole deal), and many many more. Second, Kaylin is just plain childish and annoying. Seriously, does she have some kind of divine connections somewhere? Because she somehow became a Hawk without taking the classes, without any respect for military/social hierarchy, and skills that should be present in someone of her position. Oh, and she has no respect for rules, and has tantrums. Third, where's the love story? Now, I'll be the first to say that I hate mushy love stories, but after four books it's getting frustrating. (On the record, I vote Nightside.) Even uber-masculine series have couples in them or at least some kind of lingering tension. (My Lifetime movie addict side is showing.) Lastly, there were no real plot developments in this book. It was like a 'filler episode' on a TV drama. It was entertaining, but you could skip it and not miss anything important. (The only bit of info was a little bit of background on the Leotines. That's it.)

All right, I'm totally done griping:

Even though I gripe about this series a lot and I detest the main character, I think I'm slowing becoming addicted to it. It has a different tone than other fantasy series out there today. Also, some of the supporting characters remain absolutely brilliant. (I read the series mainly to see what becomes of them.) Lastly, the world is really unique. I am slowly starting to understand it more and more with each novel, and it's gets more interesting all the time.


Additional Notes: This is the 4th book in the Chronicles of Elantra Series by Michelle Sagara.

Hex and the City: Nightside Series 4

Hex and The City
(Simon R Green)

Pages: 256 (Mass Market Paperback)
Year Published: 2005

Teaser: John is the closest he has ever been to finding out the truth about his mysterious mother. Lady Luck offers to give him valuable information about his background as payment for a job. This job is dangerous and will put John on the bad sides of some very powerful players in Nightside. As usual, John doesn't seem too upset about it.

Short Thought: As with the other novels in this series, this is sick and twisted fun that is surprisingly easy to relate to.

Expanded Thoughts: This 4th installment in the series builds upon what has been introduced in the previous novels as well as answers a lot of questions and open new doors.

One central theme of the previous books was the mysterious origins of John Taylor. Why does everyone fear him? Who is his 'all-powerful' mother? What of his father? We actually get answers to these questions and more in this book. (Thank God!)

Also, this novel has a interesting and deliciously macabre cast of supporting characters. Some new Nightside residents take center stage. Some of them include: Sinner (sold his soul for love), Pretty Poison (Sinner's demoness lover), and even a unique Madman. They play off of each other well, and can be pretty hilarious at times. My only complaint is that the author's builds these characters up sometimes just lets them go.

Though there are a few redundancies and places that I wish were more developed, this is a great, easy to follow, fantasy story with twisted allusions that tickle your well of useless knowledge.

Additional Notes: This novel contains dark themes and descriptive violence.

Chill Factor: Weather Warden Series 3

Chill Factor

(Rachel Caine)

Pages: 352 (Mass Market Paperback)
Year Published: 2005

Teaser: Picking up after the last novel's cliffhanger, Joanne is in the middle of trouble once again. She is scrambling across the country to confront Kevin in Las Vegas. If having to deal with an angry teenager with super powers wasn't enough, Joanne's trek is interrupted when she is kidnapped and finds herself in the headquarters of a very strange and dangerous organization. As they try to pump her for information, she finds that she cannot trust any of her old acquaintances--maybe even her beloved David.

Short Thought: Fun, easy to follow, romantic adventure that is as entertaining as any television program.

Expanded Thoughts: First let me just say that you really need to read the first two novels in this series before jumping into this one. This book picks up almost right where book 2 ended. (Weather Warden 1, Weather Warden 2).

This kind of novels are what I like to call "TV alternatives." You can just read, without a brain cramp, and enjoy the ride. There is an interesting storyline, fairly uncomplicated characters, and just enough twists for you to get your fix.

So what is delicious about this novel? First, we are treated with more back story and minor character development. The eccentric Lewis has played a major role in the last two novels, but his character had really remained a mystery until this novel. We are able to understand more about his strange behaviors and how he really fits into the whole grand hierarchy in regards to Djinn and Wardens. Even more than Lewis, I applaud this author for not doing what so many others do in this genre--drop characters off. This author successfully introduces new characters while keeping the personalities and presences of older characters alive. Developments actually go somewhere! (I have been frustrated with another series that will remain nameless.)

Second, can I just say that as cheesy and over-the-top as this couple is, I am addicted and find myself with warm fuzzies. It is a perfect healing, sweet, and sultry match! David and Joanne compliment each other so well. It makes for one of the best relationship dynamics I have seen in the fantasy genre in awhile. (Though, I cannot say that I not just being clouded by all the David-ness. -sigh-)

Lastly, this novel wasn't as flat and linear as the previous two. There was a lot going on, and it was balanced quite well and came together in the end. (I'm totally not giving spoilers on this one.) There was already one troublesome mission on the table at the start of this novel--the stoppage of Kevin, fiery teenager, and his stolen godly servant Johnathan--and tensions were high. Instead of calming down from there, it only got more urgent, more dangerous, more complex, and, at times, nail-biting. Each of the main characters have to find their way out of their own binds before they can truly stop Kevin, and with the twists thrown in no one can be trusted--not even their closest companions.

Okay, there were a few things about this novel that irritated the snot out of me. First, let me just say that Joanne is the biggest 'Mary-Sue' I have seen in a long time. I know it makes that reading easier and less complicated, but does everything have to revolve around her. ('Mary-Sue' is a character to which everything happens. Everyone wants to be with her, everyone is out to get her, only she can complete tasks, only she can save the world, etc...) Sometimes it is a bit ridiculous what she is put through and what she completes. Next, it seems these books are going to start ending in cliff-hangers. Boo-hiss on that! It wasn't as bad as the last book, but BOO! Lastly, the 'humor' gets old sometimes. I understand that humor is subjective, but I just found it annoying in places.

So overall, great fun with very minor hang-ups. It is a must read for fans of urban fantasy and strong female leads.

Additional Notes: This novel contains scenes of a sexual nature as well as mild violence.

Nightingale's Lament: Nightside Series 3

Nightingale's Lament

(Simon R. Green)

Pages: 256
Year Published: 2004

Teaser: To square off his debts, John Taylor took a job from his long time unfriendly enemy Walker. Of course, he got the job done in a way only "the cursed John Taylor" could--by screwing up the electricity grid for Nightside and leaving a lot of carnage behind. So, John decides to head to Strangefellows to escape Walker's wrath.

While at the bar, John is approached by a man who has a job for him. The man is concerned about his daughter who has recently cut off all contact with her friends and family. He wants to know if she is okay. John agrees to take the job even after he finds out who this mysterious girl is. The daughter is none other than Rossignol, the singer whose songs are so sad that many have committed suicide after listening to them. The problem becomes even more dangerous when John finds out that she is managed by the Cavendishes--one of the most powerful and strange duos in Nightiside. John is suspicious that the Cavendishes are using Ross as a weapon so he brings along the only comrade of his immune to such things, Dead Boy.

Short Thought: Yet another twisted and fun ride that is the best in the series yet.

Expanded Thoughts: Even though Nightside is a place in which no one would want to be found, it is definitely a great place to observe. With each novel, the author shows us yet another dimension of Nightside, sometimes literally, while keeping some of our favorite constants like Strangefellows and its jaded bartender.

This novel was the best in the series so far. In previous posts, I have complained before about the redundancy of some of the syntax. (John Taylor is scary. Nightside is scary. Things are strange in Nightside. Blah blah blah) It was minimized in this one. Granted, it was still there, but not annoyingly so. Also, the 'mystery' plot was much more focused. In previous books, there is so much going on that the actual 'job' gets forgotten sometimes. This 'job' is at the forefront of the story, and becomes extremely trying for John emotionally. He honestly wants to help Rossignol and not just complete the job and intimidate along the way. Lastly, the new supporting characters are the most brilliant and developed yet. All hail Dead Boy!

Though I love this series, I did have one complaint about this novel. The 'Walker' job in the beginning just seemed randomly thrown in to me. It was like a short story just thrown in the beginning.

Over all, a very dark, twisted, and highly entertaining short read.

Additional Notes: This novel contains dark themes, violence, and gore.

Additional Notes: This is the 3rd novel in the Nightside Series by Simon R. Green.

Heat Stroke: Weather Warden Series 2

Heat Stroke

(Rachel Caine)

Teaser: Joanne begins learning the difficulties and consequences of being reborn as a Djinn. She must learn the basics if she is to survive. She is sent to Paul, the only other Djinn that began as a human, to begin training. Unfortunately for Joanne, there are those that would use her new found situation to their advantage. She finds herself in great trouble once again.

Short Thought: Fun and adventurous light read with a cliffhanger ending.

Expanded Thoughts: Let me first just say that if you like this series, buy/check out this book and the next one at the same time, because this one ends on a cliffhanger. It is a very cruel, cruel thing if you aren't prepared.

In the last book, the Weather Wardens and their structures and powers were the focus. In this novel, the focus is primarily on the mysterious Djinn. We are given a lot of information, but are still left with plenty of mystery. Through Joanne, we are shown that the limitless powers they possess are not without an equally measurable dark side full of tragedy.

Light novels like this have found a permanent page on my shelves. Nothing epic or inspiring, but worth the entertainment value. I look forward to continuing the series. I'll add it to my "better than TV" section. It's like a twisted, fantastical Lifetime movie, whooo!

Additional Notes: This is the 2nd novel in the Weather Warden Series by Rachel Caine

Additional Notes: This novel does contain scenes depicting sexual situations.

Agents of Light and Darkness: Nightside Series 2

Agents of Light and Darkness
(Simon R. Green)

Teaser: John Taylor is back in Nightside and doesn't appear to be returning to the normal world any time soon. He has taken a new job that pays as well as it is dangerous. A mysterious priest has hired him to locate and retrieve the Unholy Grail (the cup from which Judas drank). The task proves to be quite difficult and attracts some of John's most powerful enemies. Angels and Demons, anyone?

Short Thought: Off the wall detective adventure that is as twisted as it is fun.

Expanded Thoughts: What can I say? This book is corny in the darkest, most entertaining way possible. It is just plain fun and shouldn't be taken too seriously. I won't lie; I wasn't too fond of the first book. I thought it was too predictable and cheesy in a bad way. This one was much better, and borders on masterful.

There are many things about it I absolutely love. First, the settings and characters are out of this world. It is like what the world would look like if Quentin Tarantino and a posse of evil clowns took over. I can't even fathom how someone comes up with stuff like this. I thought it was pretty crazy in the first novel. The author takes it a step further in this one.

Second, I love the throwback to old gumshoe stories and film noir. I think it has a brilliant amount of cheesiness added (just like in the old movies) and takes it to the darkside. I could almost picture a movie scene with John Taylor sitting at a desk with a ceiling fan in the foreground. (And oh don't forget the trickling piano music with a hint of muted trumpets.) I feel that it was too forced in the first novel, but it was very balanced in this one.

Lastly, the actual plot surrounding the Unholy Grail retrieval was great on its own. It had twists, turn, and obstacles that built throughout the short novel. All the extra stuff just helped to bring different tones and colors to it.

I only have a few gripes. First, some of the lines are annoyingly repetitive. (...this is the nightside. ...Suzy likes to shoot people. ....people fear John Taylor. ....Alex has a poor disposition.) I just want to scream, I KNOW!, sometimes. Second, what happened to the real world? I don't think that it was ever explained. John had hidden from Nightside for years in the 'real world.' Did he just not return?

In closing, if you want a short and fun novel that appeals to your dark side, you should really check out this series. I believe Agents of Light and Darkness is just a taste of the dark and twisted fun to come.

Additional Notes: This is the 2nd book in the Nightside Series by Simon R. Green.

Additional Notes: This book contains scenes of a dark and violent nature.

Luck in the Shadows: Nightrunner Series 1

Luck in The Shadows

(Lynn Flewelling)

Teaser: Alec has been sentenced to death for a crime that he didn't commit. As his days in prison grow longer and the torture more intense, he is given new hope. One of the prisoners, a curious man named Seregil, plans to escape and agrees to take Alec with him. Alec can't wait to get out, but he fears that his new acquaintance may be even more dangerous.

Short Thought: A dashing fantasy adventure with a great mix of characters.

Expanded Thoughts: Alright, I'm just gonna shoot the 'big elephant in the room' first on this. Yes, it is true that this series' lead couple (Alec x Seregil) is MxM or yaoi. This seems to be one of the major complaints made about this series. The couple is genius though, and I don't really see what their genders have to do with anything. It enhances the brilliant story if anything else. It brings something new and bold to this genre. So, don't be fooled by angry reviewers! This is a great fantasy novel. One of the best that I have read!

So, let's discuss the main characters. First, we have Alec. As the story begins, Alec is a illiterate low class country bumpkin with very innocent and traditional view about the world around him. Next, we have Seregil. He is a thief extraordinaire with a past full of issues a mile long. While young Alec's past is a seemingly open book, Seregil's is clouded with secrecy and darkness. The two learn from each other and help each other as they are confronted with huge obstacles.

As for the story, it really was an adventure. It was like that moment on a roller coaster when your breath catches, and then WHAM! It truly was a well developed, fast-paced ride throughout. It also has all the great elements: high stakes escapes, mystery, political intrigue, thievery, coming of age, humor, and characters with whom you can fall in love.

Honestly, I can't wait for the next one.

Additional Notes: This novel contains gay relationships, violence, and mild language.

Additional Notes: Luck in the Shadows is the first novel in the Nightrunner Series by Lynn Flewelling.

The Soldier King: Dhulyn and Parno Series 2

The Soldier King

(Violette Malan)

Teaser: Dhulyn and Parno run into trouble when they go to deliver a royal prisoner to his captors. By mercenary standards, the prisoner is not to be harmed after they turn him over. The job is never that easy, and the paired mercenaries find themselves personally handling the prisoner.

It is especially trying for Dhulyn and Parno's partnership. The land they have to travel to is part of Parno's noble past. When he is given the opportunity to have his nobility reinstated, Dhulyn can't help but feel nervous.

Short Thought: A great, classic-style fantasy adventure with very interesting characters.

Expanded Thoughts: This novel was a great adventure. It is a nod to the fantasy styles that overran the 1980s, but it has a wonderful contemporary voice that makes it refreshing and different.

We get a picture of Parno's past in this novel, and a deeper understanding of Dhulyn's gift. As the setting develops more and more, I can't help but be immensely intrigued.

[Spoiler Warning]

My only real gripe is that the relationship between the characters confused me in this one. In the first novel, Parno is 'working out his kinks' with bar maids. He and Dhulyn were like family. It didn't seem to me that they were romantically involved. In this one, all of a sudden, those pet names they call each other have new meanings. They are like a married couple. I like both dynamics, but I just wish I knew which one is true. I can't imagine both being true, but maybe I'm just crazy. I just hope that this doesn't turn into a romance novel. There's enough of those out now.

Additional Notes: This is the 2nd book in the Dhulyn and Parno Series by Violette Malan.

Cast in Secret: The Chronicles of Elantra 3

Cast in Secret

(Michelle Sagara)

Teaser: Kaylin is back and surrounded by trouble and drama once again. Only this time she doesn't find herself thrown into the middle of the High Caste Barrani, but rather the telepathic Thalani who have plagued her before. Kaylin's task begins as a small Thalani child comes to her in a "vision" and speaks nothing but her name. Kaylin puts aside all of her differences and focuses on helping the child.

Short Thought: The best book in the series thus far.

Expanded Thoughts: Finally, a gem in this series. I absolutely loved this installment of this series. The characters were better developed, more human, and a tad bit funny. The story was also easier to follow and much interesting and suspense building. Just as I was about to throw down this series, I find myself attached to it for the long haul.

Additional Notes: This is the third book of the Chronicles of Elantra Series by Michelle Sagara.

Fire Study: The Study Trilogy 3

Fire Study

(Maria V. Snyder)

Teaser: Yelena is back as the liaison between Sitia and Ixia, that is until someone or something drives the council officially against her and sends her running back to Ixia with her brother Leif in tow. Will she keep her neutral ground as she seeks to clear the new obstacles in her way? Or will she find her self on the wrong side of her comrades? All the while Yelena is discovering that her magic is more powerful than anyone could have imagined and that her capabilities are endless and terrifying.

Short Thought: Not as great as the first two novels, but an entertaining end to an interesting fantasy adventure trilogy.

Expanded Thoughts: I was very excited to read this conclusion to the trilogy. I was hoping for a blast. I did think it was entertaining, but it most certainly did not live up to the first two novels. Some parts were wonderful and others I found myself getting annoyed. We did get to see what happens to certain characters, and even get a peak into their future, but other characters who were important in the previous novels become lost and many never develop.

All that being said, it was entertaining. It was a nice, easy read. A good TV substitute, but nothing spectacular.

Additional Notes: This is the third book of the Study Trilogy by Maria V. Snyder.

Cast in Courtlight: The Chronicles of Elantra 2

Cast in Courtlight

(Michelle Sagara)

Teaser: As the Hawks are busy preparing for a huge festival to take place, Kaylin is stuck learning magic from a dragon with no sense of humor. She finds it boring and over her head. But her boredom doesn't last long, though, as she finds herself swept up deep into the ancient Barrani high court. A Lord of the Court seeks her help and grants her privileges despite her standing with the enemy, outcast lord Nightshade. All these "privileges" come with a price as she finds herself faced with new problems and the dark ghosts of her past.

Short Thought: Adventurous fantasy story with a splash of political intrigue.

Expanded Thoughts: I was "iffy" about this series after the first book, but I found it entertaining so I thought I would give it a try. After I finished reading it, I thought that it was okay.

One of my main problems is that some of the characters are weak, flat, or annoying, namely the main character. Call it preferences, but I like a strong, well-meaning, complex, ever-ready main character. This main character is ignorant, naive, stupid, unyielding, narrow-minded, and self-centered. Maybe the author is gearing up for a huge character growth in her, but now it is just annoying. The pace is strange, and I found a lot of the humor predictable, and not funny.

There are a few things about this novel that I love. A few of the minor characters are brilliant, deep, and mysterious--Nightshade, HawkLord, Anteela, and Catti. Some pieces of the plot are delicious and are frequent enough to keep you hooked. The story is revealed slowly and not too rushed.

What can I say, I am a sucker for entertainment. I prefer a good entertaining book over TV, so I will continue with this series at least for the next couple books. Hopefully, by then, I will finally get a feel for this author's style and flow.

Additional Notes: This is the second book of Chronicles of Elantra by Michelle Sagara.

Magic Study: The Study Trilogy 2

Magic Study

(Maria V. Snyder)

Teaser: Yelena has escaped death by running from Ixia. She now finds herself in the jungle kingdom in which she was kidnapped from all those years ago. Trouble still comes from all directions, but what has her scared the most is coming face-to-face with the people who claim that they are her parents and brother.

Short Thought: An exciting sequel that builds upon the first novel very well.

Expanded Thoughts: Wow, plot lines are popping out everywhere. I thought Yelena was just a convicted criminal poison taster, but that was just the surface.

This novel is a good contrast to the first novel. The first was set in Ixia (the cold, militaristic, structured capital) and this one is set in the humid, free-flowing, jungle lands. These are the same jungle lands in which Yelena was born and that are responsible for her magical abilities.

Yelena gets to meet her 'family,' and we get to learn a little bit more about what brought her into Ixia in the first place. She even gets to attend a school that focuses on honing her abilities and expanding her power.

My only complaint is that Yelena has 'mary sue' syndrome. Everything that happens, happens to Yelena. Any problem that arises, Yelena is the only one in the universe who can solve it. If there's evil in the world, it's after only Yelena. Don't get me wrong, it did make it a more casual read, but it sure did get annoying at times.

Additional Notes: This novel contains scenes of mild violence.

Additional Notes: This is the 2nd novel in the Study Trilogy by Maria V. Snyder.

Cast in Shadow: The Chronicles of Elantra 1

Cast in Shadow

(Michelle Sagara)

Teaser: The world is split into two major parts--the law enforced lands and the outcast fiefs. The laws of the land are enforced by animal tribes, and the fiefs are full of orphans and chaos. Within all this, a lowly fief orphan is taken in by the hawk lord because of interesting markings that have appeared all over her body.

Fast forward 7 years to when the breadth of the novel takes place, and this orphan, now all grown up, has a spot in the hawks, a strange power, and a chip on her shoulder the size of a crater. She is given an assignment to investigate a series of ritual murders out in the fiefs and finds herself being forced to partner with an aloof dragon and a ghost of her past for whom she hates with a fiery passion. Let the games begin!

Short Thought: Very different, annoying and predictable main character, but mildly entertaining.

Expanded Thoughts: Now, I would not put this in the category of great novels, but I have to say it was very interesting. (I've already queued up the next 2, heh). But it's definitely not on my favorites list.

My main gripe with this novel is that the main character is not likable. She is arrogant, unskilled, immature, delusion, and messy. Very rarely does a main character annoy me as much as this one.

Fortunately, I think I may get hooked on this because the setting is so freaking interesting, and some of the other characters are brilliant and interesting. This series is very unique in this genre. I only hope I fall in love with the character too.

Additional Notes: This is the first novel in the Chronicles of Elantra series by Michelle Sagara.

The Sleeping God: Dhulyn and Parno Series 1

The Sleeping God

(Violette Malan)

Teaser: Dhulyn is the only survivor of her massacred clan. Parno is a former high nobleman. What the two of them have is common is that the both left their pasts behind and became Mercenary brothers who are forever partnered.

Short Thought: Traditional fantasy setup with wonderfully interesting characters.

Expanded Thoughts: I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was a good ol' mercenary, D&D-type adventure. The characters are very interesting to watch. (Or read rather, well at least no dice rollin', eh?) It kept me reading until the wee morning hours. I can't wait to read the next one to better get a feel for this series.

Additional Notes: This is the first book in the Dhulyn and Parno series by Violette Malan

Ill Wind: Weather Warden Series 1

Ill Wind

(Rachel Caine)

Teaser: Joanne Baldwin is desperately racing across the country. She's been afflicted by a deadly curse, and is on the run from those who would like to frame her with murder. While fighting to stay alive and hidden, she is searching for any clues that would lead her to her old friend Lewis, a guy who is also on the run and hasn't been seen for years. If she doesn't find him soon, she's as good as dead.

Short Thought: Sexy, light, fun, and romantic fantasy story that steps away from the vampire and werewolf themes to which so many others in the genre are clinging.

Expanded Thoughts: This is the ultimate summer read for the romantic fantasy genre. It's fun; it's simple; and it not long. It is also a nice change from where a lot of the chic fantasy series are going. (Vampires, Werewolves, Shapeshifters, etc). This novel focuses on Djinn (Genies) and using science to control the elements. (Weather, Fire, Earth, etc).

Enough about the fantasy element, what about the romance? I think the author created a perfect counterpart to Joanne in David. He is the perfect guy for every reader. Their dynamic and history is very interesting, and, dare I say it, fiery. It is one of the best romances in this genre I have seen in awhile. I'm curious to see where it goes.

Additional Notes: This novel contains mild sexual scenes and themes.

Additional Notes (2): This is the first book in the Weather Warden Series by Rachel Caine.

Something from the Nightside: Nightside Series 1

Something from the Nightside
(Simon R Green)

Teaser: John Taylor makes his living as a mediocre private eye working in London. Unfortunately, business has been slow as of late, and John is running out of cash fast. John's luck turns around when a mysterious upperclass businesswoman comes knocking on his door with a case for him. She is willing to pay John more money than he has ever received for a job to find her runaway daughter and drag her back home. As always, there is a catch. The daughter is believed to have run away to Nightside, the fabled dark inner part of London. John must make a choice, refuse the job and find other ways out of his financial situation, or accept the job and travel to Nightside where he would have to face a part of his past that he has been running from for years.

Short Thought: Although very cheesy and cliched, I found it entertaining in a "sadistic, twisted" kind of way."

Expanded Thought: I had never read a novel like this before. It wasn't serious and brooding; It was freakin' fun to read! It was watching an old noir film on acid.

The characters in Nightside are ridiculous, and that's why I like them. There are the epitome of a stereo-type (PI, Tough As Nails Chick, Grumpy Bartender, etc), but they have little twists that make them funny and amusing to read.

If you are looking for a short, deliciously, dark, and fun fantasy story, you have to check out this series. My only complaint is that it is beyond cliche at times, and it can get annoying. I hope in later books it won't be this bad.

Additional Notes: This novel does contain some scenes of a dark nature.

Additional Notes (2): This is the first book of the Nightside series by Simon R Green

Poison Study: The Study Trilogy 1

Poison Study

(Maria V. Snyder)

Teaser: Yelena, who has been imprisoned for murder, awaits her execution. The day finally arrives, but instead of a noose or a pistol, a job opportunity is offered to her. She can choose a quick execution, or she can accept the job of being the General's poison taster which ultimately lead to a slow, agonizing death.

Short Thought: Wonderful, original characters, and unique situations. A wonderful adventure from the beginning onward. I can't wait to read it again.

Expanded Thoughts: I admit it...I actually bought this for the pretty cover. (Grrr...at those marketers again). I was pleased to find a very entertaining fantasy/action/romance.

The idea of the world is interesting (two main lands: North (Ixia, a communist-like, militaristic land), and the South (a lax jungle land where magic is used as opposed to machines)).

The main character is also very fun to read about (she is a bit of a 'mary sue', but I like her, so that's okay in my eyes). She's not your typical main character. We are introduced to her at her lowest point, as a guilty murderess awaiting her sentence. Her actions and glimpses to her past keep forever guessing her true identity and her next move.

The plot is nicely paced, easy to understand, and still has enough surprises and twists to keep your interested peeked. Overall, this was a nice all around adventure.

Additional Notes: This is the first novel in The Study Trilogy by Maria V. Snyder. (The others include Magic Study and Fire Study.)

The Lies of Locke Lamora: The Gentlemen Bastard Sequence 1

The Lies of Locke Lamora

(Scott Lynch)

Teaser: How much trouble could one scrawny homeless orphan be? Too much for anyone except an underground con man. He decides to purchase the orphan, and insures his investment by placing a death mark on him. The death mark, granted by the godfather of the underground, means that if the orphan disobeys or gets in someone's way, he can be killed without consequence. So the prophet takes the little orphan, Locke, under his wing and into his thieving brotherhood, the Gentlemen Bastards, to develop his 'trouble' into invaluable skills.

Fast forward several years, and Locke and his 'brothers' of the Gentlemen Bastards are the most successful tricksters in the city, and fortunately they are the only ones with that knowledge--until a man who calls himself the Grey King appears and Locke finds himself in the most trouble yet.

Short Thought: Beautifully rendered adventure. It has become one of my favorites.

Expanded Thoughts: I actually started out hating this book the first fifth of the way through. It was very hard to understand and plot lines were popping out everywhere. (As you may have guessed, I read for...LEISURE, not brain exercises.) I almost put it down and cut my losses.

Then, like it was a different novel altogether, it became wonderful. Think of a fantasy Ocean's Eleven, but deeper, smarter, and more interesting. The world that Scott Lynch has created is very interesting; and he isn't afraid to place REAL obstacles and tragedies in the main characters' ways. (My favorite thing about any author...)

It was also nice to read a 'masculine' (not about clothes, love, or sex) fantasy novel with depth. We get introduced to beyond witty and intelligent partners in 'crime' who have formed a life long friendship (reminiscent of the westerns my dad watches, or military mates). The pace is wonderful, and the humor is ACTUALLY hilarious. (Gasp!)

Additional Notes: This novel does contain scenes of a dark nature.

Additional Notes: This is the first book in The Gentlemen Bastard Sequence by Scott Lynch.