Tabitha Tomala

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Scarred

Jason Ennis does what he can to fit in with the world. He has started and stopped multiple degrees trying to find a path in life. He volunteers at the local soup kitchen and moves from job to job. But what he truly enjoys is saving people from the horrors he experienced as a child. He wants to make the world a better place. Even if that means he has to kill to achieve his goals.

Scarred is a dark crime thriller that dives into the minds of killers and what creates them. Damien Linnane does not hold back the details, so make such you have a strong stomach when reading this novel. This is not a read for everyone, as there are many disturbing scenes. Readers will watch the evolution of two criminals and how their paths weave together to create an astonishing ending.

I did find that sometimes the backstory was too much for me. Not that it was over detailed with gore, just too much information that pulled away from the story and the emotions it created. Many of the side characters received backstories to connect them with the reader, but they didn't seem necessary. However, the intense moments felt throughout this novel made up for the slower parts.

Not only does Scarred show you the criminal side of the story, but readers also see through the eyes of the lead detective dealing with their cases. Presenting the plot with such an array of characters, really brought the story full circle. I appreciated seeing the development from all angles. If you enjoy thrillers, then this is certainly a book for you!

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Heart Forger

Tea's story continues as her hold on the dark increases and she begins to unearth the rotten truths of the kingdoms. Hidden agendas and betrayal are rampant as the story continues. Feared for her power over the Ozzie, Tea will do all she can to protect those she loves, even if that means losing a part of herself. And her enemies will learn that when you cross her, Tea will do everything in her power to destroy them.

The Heart Forger is a much faster paced book, taking everything readers learned from the previous novel and racing with it. Readers will learn more about the dark asha and the rot that runs rampant in those who cannot master the power. While the first book was certainly dark, this one will take it a step farther.

I love the overall tone and feel of this world. Nothing is easy and everything comes at a price. Every relationship, every encounter is just another uphill battle and pulls the reader in. Characters have to fall down in order to fight against themselves to truly succeed. And with each book Rin Chupeco is building a world filled with dark desires and bitter politics.

True to the name, readers will learn more about the heart forgers of the world. And what you discover will make you question everything. Nothing is as it seems, and every asha holds back what they can truly accomplish. But as readers will find out, there is no more time for secrets. This is one trilogy that I cannot get enough of. I need to read the next book ASAP.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Void Fate

Thank you to Suren G. Hakobyan for giving me a copy of Void Fate in exchange for an honest review!

Five friends wake up to find that the world they once knew is now silent and empty. While they can find food and water, there is no electricity outside their apartment and no life. Their hope lies with Aram, who is determined to find a way home. But the silence and isolation eats away at their minds. Can they survive long enough to find a way home? And something is stalking the streets. A white mist that takes on humanoid form with black pits for eyes. If it reaches them, they will never survive.

Void Fate is one of those books that pulls you in with a mystery and makes you keep guessing. As the group desperately tries to figure out where they are the reader is allowed to see through each character's eyes. I was reminded of The Road by Cormac McCarthy, as you watch the slow degeneration of their minds and the violence that ensues. Seeing this transformation with each character was phenomenal, and Suren G. Hakobyan kept the perfect balance between them all.

And while there is an overarching mystery, there is another one tucked away in the plot. People are being murdered. This additional stressor takes it to the next level as the friends try to keep their wits about them long enough to escape. Characters will have to make tough decisions, and readers will be kept on the edge of their seats waiting to see what happens.

There are so many layers and elements at play in Void Fate. Mystery, fantasy, horror, and drama. I loved every minute of this book.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: There'll Be Peace When You Are Done

Both on and off-screen the show Supernatural has helped hundreds of people. Lynn S. Zubernis has compiled a second collection of essays showcasing how a pop culture show has influenced people's lives. From learning how to be true to yourself, to gaining the courage to continue each day, There'll Be Peace When You Are Done is a testament to the power of fandom.

It's hard to imagine a show having such a huge impact on both fans and actors. But each new story within There'll Be Peace When You Are Done brings to light another moment where the show turned someone's life around. As a fellow fan who would not be around without the show, I felt connected to every one of these stories. The SPNFamily is immense, and for those who don't quite understand the appeal of Supernatural, diving into this book and its counterpart, Family Don't End with Blood, will help you gain that understanding.

Deep down Supernatural teaches people to never give up. Challenge yourself, and always strive to be true to yourself. Themes of overcoming addiction, surviving toxic relationships, helping others, and so much more are contained in this one show. Actors who were on the verge of quitting the industry, after meeting the cast of Supernatural, gained renewed enthusiasm for their line of work. Fans who fought mental illnesses for years, found the courage to continue living after learning of actors who suffered from the same. There are also quite a few fans who have created charities to help those in need because they were inspired by the actors' own efforts.

There'll Be Peace When You Are Done is an eye-opening experience. People's lives are captured at their most vulnerable and shown how they carried on through the power of Supernatural. Fans of the show, and those wanting to understand the cultural phenomena that is Supernatural should pick up this book.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Magical Midlife Madness

When Jacinta realized her life would be starting over, she never could have imagined the new direction it would take. Divorced and eager to find herself again, she jumps at the chance to become the caretaker of Ivy House, a place full of fond childhood memories. But the butler, gardener, and next door neighbor seem to be off their rockers. They keep muttering about alphas and being the chosen one. But she has seen her fair share of weird, and despite the odd folks, Jacinta decides to stay.

K.F. Breene has created a hilarious mix of midlife woes, sarcasm, and magical mayhem with Magical Midlife Madness. This is a book geared towards women later on in life after the kids have grown up and life restarts. For once the heroine isn't an athletic built young twenty something who has no limitations. Jacinta deals with all the insecurities that come with an aging body and the knowledge of what happens in life to back her up. She isn't going to let people walk all over her.

The messages K.F. Breene sends are loud and clear. Do not let people ridicule you just because your body isn't perfect, or life didn't work out quite how you thought it would. As Jacinta navigates her new life and sets boundaries, readers will be pulled into a slow but steady world-building. This was a build up book, more so aimed at establishing Jacinta's outlook on her future. But I'm interested in seeing where this series goes. The characters are a delight to follow, and the ending is sure to make you jump to the next book.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Bone Witch

Tea always dreamed of becoming an asha, a powerful elemental magic user. But when she discovers the dark runes by resurrecting her brother, the elements are blocked from ever reaching her. Instead, she must learn how to wield the dark, but never give in to its temptation and pull in too much power. It is a delicate balance she must achieve, and she's only just learning how powerful she may become. Temptation is around every corner, and something dark is lurking in the shadows. The Faceless are an ever present threat, and they may just take an interest in Tea.

The Bone Witch is a chilling coming of age tale filled with death and magic. As Tea struggles to navigate the new world she has fallen into, readers will find themselves faced with prejudice and discrimination. Tea can be a powerful and necessary asset to the empire. But bone witches are looked down on and sometimes only seen as tools in the war against the faceless and the creatures they control.

There are so many layers to this world Rin Chupeco introduces readers to in The Bone Witch. This first book is only the tip of an iceberg as Tea learns about the traditions of the asha, and what it takes to become one. The story unfolds as told by an older more experienced Tea. The cool and calculating girl that tells her story is vastly different from the one reader's experience. I want to know more about Tea's story and how she becomes the woman she is in the present.

Faced with the truth of a bone witch's fate, Tea sets forth to break traditions and carve her own path. However, it is not going to be easy and the reader quickly learns what happens to those who break from tradition. The Bone Witch is the perfect tale for readers who are looking for a darker young adult story.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Dust on the Altar

A huge thank you to Michelle Winkler for providing me a copy of Dust on the Altar in exchange for an honest review, and for including me in her blog tour!

To be within the bounds of Sun City a witch must be branded and may not use their magic. While there are factions within the city fighting for witch rights, most choose to help from the shadows. After the death of her parents, Jade hid in Sun City. She shunned the magical powers that failed her when she was a child and withdrew her ties to magic. Until tragedy strikes once again and she is called back to her hometown of Sugar Hill. Jade must reclaim her faith in magic, or risk the collapse of the Sugar Hill Coven. But will fear and tragedy overcome her, before she can ascend to high priestess?

Dust on the Altar is so much more than an urban fantasy tale. It is also a story of friendship, faith, and overcoming fear. Jade ran from her fears and troubles as a child, but returning to Sugar Hill forces her to face everything she ran away from. And she doesn't return to the town alone. Her best friend April is right alongside her. April may not have magic, but she slowly begins to accept the witch side of Jade, showing how friendship can transcend any bounds.

While this book may be slower paced than my usual reads, I loved the world Michelle Winkler built and the challenges Jade had to overcome. Each test Jade underwent, pushed her further along in her development, building her into the character readers see by the end. Such seamless writing and clever plot development kept me engaged even if it wasn't filled with magical battles or showy displays. And the detail spent on the rituals and overall feel of the town and the people within it was wonderful.

Great characters and a charming world to immerse yourself in. I highly recommend Dust on the Altar to fans of urban fantasy and witchy tales. You won't be disappointed! I can't wait for the next book!

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Inner Expanses

As you read Inner Expanses you are drawn into two different worlds. In one, Jim Lobe is struggling to make it through each day battling depression. In the other, a variety of monsters are fighting each day to gain what is called The Control. The two storylines feed off of each other at first as the struggles of each seem to coincide. However, as the book continues the two worlds divide and lead the reader into following two very different stories. There are hints across each that the other world exists, but I would have liked to see more of a connection between Jim Lobe's storyline and the monsters before certain plot points were revealed.

Reyadh Rahaman has a talent for writing creative and engaging battle scenes. Each time the monsters went head to head in their continuous battles, I never knew what to expect. There is such a variety of creatures that it was hard for me to remember all of their descriptions, but have no doubt that each one is as gruesome as their abilities. And be prepared for the dark fantasy side to come out in these battles as the monsters show no mercy when provoked.

There are deeper themes at play that start to surface as you journey with Jim and the monsters. Questions of purpose and how to overcome life's boundaries. At times the philosophical side was drawn out, but it served a purpose as the monsters began to evolve their mindsets. I found that Jim's story wasn't as interesting as the monsters, but he still made bold choices and his journey took some unexpected turns. If you are a fan of stories where you put the pieces together as you read, then you will enjoy Inner Expanses.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Hobbit

Bilbo Baggins was content to stay in the Shire, living his days out in his hobbit hole. But when Gandalf the wizard visits the Shire and Bilbo invites him to tea, the hobbit's life changes forever. Thirteen dwarves show up on his doorstep with Gandalf, speaking of an adventure to reclaim their family's mountain and gold from the dragon Smaug. The itch to travel and experience life outside the Shire overcomes Bilbo, and he starts his journey to help the dwarves reclaim what was lost.

When you begin reading The Hobbit, don't expect the flashy drawn out fight scenes and plot twists you'll see in modern day fantasy. Written in 1937, the style of writing is vastly different but has aged well over the years. There is a wide cast of characters, but Tolkien makes sure they all stay in the reader's view and keeps the story steadily moving forward. While the characters will have mishaps and battles, the details are oftentimes summarized making the scenes appropriate for a younger crowd while still maintaining enough for the older.

Following along with Bilbo was like walking among friends. The way the narrator talks about the hobbit and his companions is with familiarity and respect for their choices. Often Bilbo has to think outside of the box, and instead of rushing into situations, he tries to talk through them and keep open communication instead of resorting to fighting. I wish this style of confrontation made into more modern day fantasy.

Listening to The Hobbit on audiobook enhanced the experience for me. Rob Inglis did a wonderful job voicing the characters and bringing to life the songs I most likely would have skipped over if I were reading the print version. And his version of Gollum was phenomenal! If you haven't had the chance to read, or listen to, The Hobbit I highly recommend it. This is one of the only classics I have enjoyed.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: A Perfect Blood

Someone is leaving the bodies of witches around the city. But these aren't simple murders. Each one has died halfway through a transformation, their bodies unable to handle being turned into a beast. When Rachel is called to the latest scene, she discovers that a human hate group is to blame. And if a group that is against all magic and the creatures of The Hollows, is starting to twist curses to kill them, they're in trouble. But Rachel may be in over her head. She's still wearing her charmed silver and refusing to use her power.

I'm back to continue my Hollows reread, and I can honestly say I remembered nothing from A Perfect Blood! It was great revisiting the characters and diving into the book as if it were my first time reading. There are quite a few key points of realization for Rachel in this one.

Kim Harrison never fails to come up with a new way to introduce her characters to the world of readers. Instead of Rachel, Ivy and Jenks constantly going on the same kind of runs and battling the same kind of adversaries, she jazzes it up every single time. Picking up a book from The Hollows, you won't know what you're getting yourself into, but I guarantee it will be fun. Dealing with a human hate group while Rachel is experiencing the aftereffects of the world realizing what she is, and still struggling to define herself, was the perfect set up.

Some readers have issues with Rachel's attitude in this book. She's questioning herself a lot more, and she is handicapped due to her charmed silver. But while she isn't slinging magic at people, she is still fighting for what she believes in. Yes, she is hiding from making a decision, but if you had the moment to be free of something that kept dragging you down, wouldn't you want a break too? If anything, this book brings readers back into focus and realizing that Rachel isn't just a powerhouse character. She is realistic in considering her options and attempting to accept the new responsibility that is resting on her shoulders.

A Perfect Blood is still just as action-packed as the previous novels, but it requires Rachel to think more outside of the box. The tension and conflict within these pages keep the pages turning, and readers will be amazed at the turn of events. I love every moment of this series.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Belles

Camellia is a Belle, a girl with the gift of Arcana. And with her Arcana, she can turn the dullest person into the most beautiful. The Belles are seen as precious for their beauty rejuvenates while others must purchase treatments. Without the Arcana of a Belle, a person will revert to grey skin and straw hair. But only those who can pay for the exclusive treatments can be made beautiful. Every generation of Belle dreams to be the Queen's favorite, but it isn't just lavish living and parties. Dark secrets are lurking in the palace and truths that Camellia may wish she never found out.

The Belles takes vanity to a whole new level. As the story unfolds Dhonielle Clayton paints a world of color and majesty. Her descriptions were so vibrant and refreshing. Each new setting is brought to life for the reader and you can't help but see how beauty has made the upper class desperate. People are constantly comparing themselves to others. Some bordered on the edges of obsession with their looks, willing to pay for daily treatments to try and become the next fashion idle.

The Belles are raised in a sheltered life and taught all the beauty laws before being shown to the people of Orleans. Watching Camellias' realization of how the world works was captured so well. And as the plot progresses, her reactions to the more horrifying aspects of her new life kept me riveted. While I suspected some of the plot points, I didn't guess them all.

This was a fascinating read with a magic system I have never encountered before. I can't wait to see how the story progresses. Camellia's character development has only begun, and it has already been a worthwhile journey.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Chase: The Boy Who Hid

When Chase's grandfather disappears, he is presumed dead. But Chase doesn't want to give up hope. After all his grandfather was the captain of a team that excels at the high tech hide and seek competition, MC2. A title that now falls to Chase to fill. But with only three weeks to train, can Chase get up to speed in time? And can he discover the truth behind what happened to his grandfather?

Chase is a sci-fi novel that is pure fun to read. I loved the nod to pop culture references and the overall tone of the story. Many times when I encounter a novel that involves training, the plot stalls out and the scenes are repetitive. Not with Chase. Settings rapidly change, new challenges arise and all the time in between training sessions, Z Jefferies maintains the air of mystery over what exactly happened to Chase's grandfather. Altogether this makes a book that encourages the reader to put the pieces together and root for Chase as he does his best to carry on his grandfather's legacy.

I also appreciated the author showing how a boy growing up in an all white neighborhood begins to learn how to interact with people of other nationalities and sexual orientations. It's pretty clear Chase is learning as he goes, as these topics never came up around him in order to learn. He stumbles, he makes assumptions in his mind and the characters correct him each in their own way. His acceptance and development of character relationships was uplifting.

Geared towards young adults, Chase is an age appropriate book that teens will enjoy. It is filled with action and teaches young adults about social biases. Teens will be on the edge of their seats as Chase engages with his competitors and unravels the mystery of his grandfather's disappearance.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Kings and Queens

A huge thank you to J. N. Eagles for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review!

When a young queen meets her future husband, she believes he will be a good man. But when the crown sits upon his head, greed begins to take hold. He casts the young queen aside, denying her the right to rule her lands. The queen begins her journey to discover who she is and how to turn her life around.

Written in the form of poetry, King and Queens is a fast-paced and enlightening read. This would be a great book to introduce teens to poetry. The rhymes are simple and to the point, and the story has an even flow. There are also great messages contained in the story. The queen never gives up hope, despite all the obstacles thrown in her path. She learns to believe in herself and to stand up for what she believes in.

King and Queens isn't heavy on imagery, but this didn't take away from the enjoyment I had while reading about the queen's journey. There is plenty of conflict and action to keep readers invested and even a hint of romance. A fun and entertaining read!

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Winter

Winter has been subject to the Queen's harsh judgment for years. Forced to sit in the throne room as Levana causes countless deaths. Winter is beautiful but criticized for being meek and Levana makes sure she knows it. When Winter falls for her guard, Levana finds a new way to torment her, but Cinder has plans to overthrow Levana. Can Winter find it in herself to side with Cinder and rise against Levana?

Winter had an interesting twist in how she viewed herself and the Lunar gift. Despite her downfalls, she did her best in the situations she was given. But even though the title is Winter, there isn't as much focus on the character as you might think. But this doesn't impact the story negatively. Marissa Meyer makes sure the reader has enough of an idea behind Winter's story before moving on. There is a much better balance between all the characters. I had a hard time identifying what fairytale Winter was based on, but with the amount of plot and character development I understood. I did figure it out once the poison apple came around.

The Lunar Chronicles was an ambitious series. Each book introduced a new fairy tale twist and two new characters to carry on into the story. Unfortunately by the time the last book, Winter, came around, there were a lot of characters that needed their arcs to close out. I think this is the reason the last book felt so slow. For certain scenes, I wasn't sure at first why they were included and then I realized it was a pivotal moment for the characters involved. And there were other moments where I felt the scenes were stretched out and didn't need the amount of filler contained in them. Is the series worth a read? Absolutely, the voice acting was wonderful in the audiobooks. Rebecca Soler, throughout this series, consistently voiced every character as I imagined they would be. Just prepare for a longer finale.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: A Court of Mist and Fury

Feyre has survived, but her soul is broken. Unable to overcome the trauma she suffered under Amarantha, her mind relives each horrible moment in her nightmares. She should be happy and enjoying the life that is healing all around her, but darkness lurks in her heart. When Rhysand calls in their bargain and brings her to the Night Court, she'll find that she isn't the only broken one.

I have been the biggest skeptic about Sarah J. Maas. But I learned never to judge an author by one series alone. (I DNFed Throne of Glass). But let me tell you, this book, this book right here blew me away. The writing wasn't the best in A Court of Thorns and Roses, it was repetitive and clunky at times. But whatever faults the first book had, this one made up for it.

Feyre goes through such a detailed and excruciating downfall. Her doubts and fears are woven into the story so intricately, and watching her development through it all was phenomenal. And seeing the two fey lords react differently to her brokenness was reflective of the real world when some people just don't understand how to help someone through trauma. I love watching characters fight to overcome their own boundaries, and the more struggle the better. Sara J. Maas did this perfectly with Feyre taking each small step forward and sometimes sliding backwards. But the best part of it all, was watching her have someone stand beside her the entire way and not fault her for those steps back she took.

I am the hardest to sell on romance, but A Court of Mist and Fury hit all the right chords for me. A friendship that was built on sarcasm and slowly developed trust, evolved into a passionate romance. There was no instant love, every bit of the relationship was fought for and properly introduced in the story. By the time Feyre chose to move forward with the romance I was bouncing on my feet waiting for it. This is the romance I enjoy reading about. And I need the next book to figure out what happens!

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Darkest Winter Ever

When James' daughter Poppy is abducted by a human trafficking ring he abandons everything to search for her. Using all the skills he has as a Private Investigator, he finds someone unexpected. Valerie, a woman abducted years ago like his daughter, and now his one hope for finding Poppy. But will they be able to find her in time?

C. J Clarke drops you straight into the heart wrenching moment when Poppy is abducted. You can't help but feel silent desperation for the young girl as terror takes hold and she does all she can to escape. The same raw emotion can be seen in her father as the story continues and his guilt plagues him, sending him on a rollercoaster of emotions as he searches for her.

And to ramp up the tension readers have a chance to see through Valerie's point of view as well. This was such a wise choice, showing the trauma and emotional damage a survivor would have to cope with. Valerie's scenes never let the reader forget how the story could end.

I did find that the second half of the book wasn't as fleshed out as the first half. I started to find typos, but nothing that took away from the story or pulled me out of the narrative. I also felt that some of James' actions weren't quite on target with trying to find Poppy and he became a bit distracted. But everything did slide into place and come full circle by the end. C. J Clarke tactfully detailed the most chilling of scenes and had the perfect balance of hope and despair that kept me reading. In under a hundred pages, she told a gripping story full of raw emotion.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Toll

Goddard has risen to power and the Thunderhead has labeled all but one human Unsavory. Greyson, now the only person left to speak with the Thunderhead, quickly becomes a Tonist figurehead. As he attempts to sway those around him for the better of humanity, Goddard is basking in power, gleaning any and all he pleases. The perfect world is falling apart and help will come from an unexpected place. But can the Thunderhead help a world that it can no longer communicate with? Or has it made an error in it's calculations?

Neal Shusterman showed the theme of a perfect society achieving it's inevitable downfall with sarcasm, wit and dark humor. I enjoyed the Thunderhead's scheming and it's attempt to circumvent rules without breaking them. I also enjoyed seeing Greyson emerge as a reformed and driven character. As with the previous books, there were snippets in between chapters, but this time they varied. Sometimes readers were privy to information from Scythe journals, other times it was people from centuries in the future trying to glean meaning from the events unfolding in what would be their past. Although I felt the latter was more filler than anything else.

While the book was fast paced and I found any spare moment to sit down and read it, when I finished I felt like something was missing. Characters that were once active and outstanding to read, fell to the wayside and became only ghosts of themselves, serving to move the plot forward and little else. Throughout the series the character arcs were brilliantly written. Citra, Rowan, Greyson and Goddard to name the most prominent, were unique and allowed a build up of tension and conflict to keep the reader glued to the pages. I won't say that their arcs didn't come to appropriate endings for them all, but some were left lacking.

And the ending was so well built up and tempered into being an exciting mix of hope and desperation, but it fizzled out too soon. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't entirely satisfying either. Like all the build up and anticipated conflict was concluded too soon, too anticlimactic. Do I still think this series is worth reading? Yes, absolutely. The writing style is enjoyable and the humor was perfect for me, I just wish it had concluded better.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Legendary

Are you ready for another game? The magic of Caraval once again graces the world for the Empress's birthday and this time Tella has no choice but to play. Indebted to a dangerous man, Tella must win the game in order to discover Legend's true name to clear her debt. But winning the game may cost her more than she originally bargained for. As the magic of Caraval comes to life Tella will find herself swept up in a fight for both her heart and life. But it's just a game. Or is it?

Tella's story is a much faster paced adventure than Scarlett's. Tella is impulsive and more likely to take risks. She is also quite the conflicted character once you get to know her, and I loved every minute of it. She dives headfirst into situations and is passionate about everything she does. Even if she is afraid, she does her best not to show it and has a sharp tongue to back her up. The pacing was also helped by the fact that the stakes were higher than the last book. Tella has to go through riskier situations than Scarlet ever had to. As a character, Scarlett most likely would not have been able to accomplish even half of what Tella did in this book.

The world is also cracked open and expands beyond the sisters and their family. Stephanie Garber begins to add in world history, information on the fates, and how magic once worked. And don't worry the family ties are still a strong theme in this story, they are just accented by the world-building.

Stephanie Garber has once again created a beautiful and dangerous world for the characters to traverse. The descriptions are just as vivid and colorful as in Caraval, drawing the reader in and immersing them in a world that leaves them stunned. The writing style of Legendary is bursting with creativity and immediately pulls you in, making you sort through what is real and imaginary alongside the characters. And even after the story has come to an end you will look back over everything you experienced to try to sort out what was real. I don't want this adventure to end, but there is only one more book to go. And I can't wait to start it!

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Crave

When Grace's parents die in a tragic accident, there is only one place left for her to go. From sunny California, Grace is sent to her uncle's boarding school in frigid Alaska. But it isn't just any boarding school, all manner of supernatural creatures attend and Grace joins in the middle of a power struggle. Vampire Jaxon Vega has taken an interest in Grace, and it hasn't gone unnoticed. Will Grace be another pawn in a deadly game, or are his feelings for her real?

While Grace could be an entertaining character to follow at times, she was extremely naive. While I understand the naivety was intended, I was also confused by it. Why would the book blurb talk about vampires if it wasn't mentioned until halfway past the book? At a certain point, Grace rationalizing away all the strange occurrences around her grew repetitive. It also slowed down the plot progression.

Tracy Wolff spent a long time word building. The setting wasn't all that different from the real world, so I am not sure why all the build-up. Yes, there was magic, monsters, and the politics surrounding them but aside from that, the school wasn't all that different. Gothic castle aside, I didn't think the beginning needed to be so drawn out. And I had a hard time believing Grace's uncle would drop her in the middle of monsters, and not warn her. Especially after all the incidents that surrounded her started cropping up.

I can see the attraction of this book. Jaxon Vega hits all the right buttons. He is dark, brooding, and mysterious. He is the bad boy someone can pine after and still have gentle qualities that make a heart swoon. The tensions between Grace and Jaxon were tantalizing, but it came too late in the story. Not a series I will be continuing.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Warrior of Magick

Sienna is assigned to remove the last member of the Guardian family, Daxon. But she will quickly find out that Daxon was the boy she saved years ago when the Guardian academy fell. Daxon and Corrine, the only two left from the academy, have been traveling, searching for an answer to what happened the night the academy was attacked. Little do they know that Sienna is looking for those same answers. When the three come together, Sienna will defy the Council that gave her orders, and start down a road that none of them could have predicted.

Warrior of Magick had a wonderful cast of characters. Sienna and Daxon were both fiery tempered and quick to judge. The two of them going back and forth was energizing because as the banter grew more heated, attraction started to seep in as well. And even though Corrine was a secondary character, she went through a worthwhile developmental arc. I appreciate that Jessica Wayne didn't cast Corrine aside and use her as filler. Paying attention to all the characters made this story all the more enjoyable to read.

The magic system in the Cambrexia Realm series is creative and tied to the innate power with the magic user. I loved the ability for magic to be different for each user, limited only by their inner well of strength. Jessica Wayne also dropped a mystery into the magical side of the world by confusing even the characters with a form of magic they thought was long gone. I can't wait to see the origin story for it in the following novels. Needless to say, there is plenty of spell slinging action throughout this book.

The only downfall I found while reading was the sometimes repetitive actions. Some battles seemed awfully familiar to ones that had already occurred, and the same could be said for rescue attempts. But all in all, this was a fast-paced and fun read. The ending leaves the reader demanding to know more and rest assured I will be finding out what happened to all these characters by diving into the next book ASAP.

This is the first time I am conflicted on how to do an overall description of a novel. The characters are fun to read and the overall idea is creative, but there needs to be more detail and organization. This is a fast-paced read, but the plot jumps from one idea to the next. The characters don't stay in one place long enough and the story is more along the lines of plot development instead of character development. I had a hard time understanding what the overall storyline was supposed to be.

The Scent of Dragon's Blood opens with Xenia working a fair nine hours away from where she lives, but there is never an explanation as to why. The entire time Xenia spends at the fair is written in summaries. I would have liked to see more about the job and the creature that stalked her there. Where did it come from? What did it want?

Also, Xenia undoubtedly has a past with most of the secondary characters, but it is never fully explored. I didn't feel a solid connection with any of the characters. There was a huge opportunity for Kova Killian to dive into Xenia's past with her cursed lover, but it was skimmed over by a secondary character. I felt like a flashback, or even a layering process of multiple flashbacks would have developed the overall emotional tone.

This book is full of potential, but it needs to be revisited and built up.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Forbidden Scrolls

Juliyah grew up in a town where half-bloods like herself were treated like animals. At a young age, she learned how to steal to survive, and fought her way free of her oppressive start in life. But when she decides to take a job that promises a large payout, she's going to find herself in a world of trouble. Stealing the scroll seemed easy until she was betrayed and left for dead. And when she finds out the truth about the scroll she stole, Juliyah will realize she has made a terrible mistake. Juliyah joins forces with those she stole from to seek her revenge and take back the scroll. Because if they are too late, the power contained in the scroll will bring about devastation.

Juliyah was a fun to read character. She is a confident and secure half-elf. Despite everything she has been through, she doesn't let anyone compromise her own set of morals. I did notice that the writing had her smiling a lot to convey emotion. I would have liked to see more of a diversity in body language. But aside from that, she was well written and flowed well with all of the secondary characters.

The Forbidden Scrolls is a book that lays the foundation for future adventures. Readers will be swept up in the world-building as they follow Juliyah and her companions. While there isn't a lot of action in this first book, it is sprinkled throughout the storytelling. Readers will learn about the different races and religions and how it all pertains to the current situation. There is also a clever subplot that evolves as the story progresses, exploring how the Gods are choosing Paladins to fight for them.

No one seems to know the battle that will soon be waged. Even the Paladins themselves are unsure of the events that have been set into motion. But I can almost guarantee the next book will be thrilling as everything comes to an explosive head towards the end of The Forbidden Scrolls. I can't wait to see how all the characters evolve as this story progresses, and the epic battles I am sure are about to be waged. Fans of fantasy, start your journey now!

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Dragons of Spring Dawning

Takhisis gathers her armies at Neraka, ready to march on the rest of Krynn and burn it to the ground. The companions armed with both Dragonlances and Dragons Orbs race to put an end to Takhisis's armies. But along the way, they will have a hard road to follow. One that will divide them and cause them to make difficult choices. Can the companions survive what awaits them?

The companions must venture from one challenge to another as they race to save Krynn and there is plenty of action to go around. Lingering questions from the first two books will be answered, and some of those answers may surprise readers. And as everything winds down every one of the companions will reach the end of their developmental arc, leaving them all as vastly different characters from when the reader first met them.

Being the series it is, Dragonlance offers readers many opportunities to expand their knowledge of the races, history of Krynn and just about any character they encounter in The Chronicles. There are some gaps in the story that the reader has to fill themselves. A first-time reader may be confused, but trust me, the information is out there. Enough hints are dropped to form an idea of what happened within Dragons of Spring Dawning, but the full stories are contained in supplemental books. And they are definitely worth investing time into.

I lingered on this book, trying to savor the adventures as long as I could. I was happy to say that I didn't remember the ending exactly and it was great experiencing it all over again. And just like the first time I finished reading Dragons of Spring Dawning, I wanted to dive into the other books in the Dragonlance series to learn more. The companions will face their toughest challenges yet and will have to confront heartbreak and loss. Dragons of Spring Dawning is a powerful end to an engaging trilogy.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Geekerella

Elle and her father used to fan over the show Starfield. Her father even helped create ExcelsiCon, a convention for Starfield fans. After his death, the show helped Elle feel connected to her father. It was also an escape from her stepmother and stepsisters' spiteful behaviors. When she finds out Starfield is being rebooted, things couldn't be better. Until she finds out Darien Freeman is going to play Prince Carmindor. But despite her doubts, Elle is determined to go to ExcelsiCon this year and enter the Starfield Cosplay contest.

Darien might be famous, but deep down he is a geek at heart. But the life of a celebrity doesn't allow him to go to cons without paparazzi and fangirls tailing him. When he has the chance to play Prince Carmindor in the Starfield reboot, he couldn't be happier. But the fandom doesn't think he is fit for the role. As rumors and gossip surround him, he begins to doubt himself and who he has become. But then he is roped into going to ExcelsiCon by his manager. And while he doesn't want to face the mass of teenage fans, he's going to find something else worthwhile at the con.

I felt for Elle. Every time she tried to get ahead, or choose her own path, her stepmother or stepsisters were in her way. Of course, this goes hand in hand with being a retelling of Cinderella. But it also showed how having a fandom to fall back on can keep a person motivated despite life's hiccups. The Starfield fandom allowed Elle to share something with hundreds of others who understood her love for the show and helped her feel less alone.

Darien's story showed a different side to fandom that I never considered. And while the celebrity angle wasn't as interesting for me, I still appreciated seeing the struggle someone who is a geek may have living in the spotlight. Similar to Elle, the Starfield fandom helped Darien overcome life's barriers.

Looking for a quick feel-good read that is filled with geekiness? Then Geekerella is the book for you! In this wonderful retelling of Cinderella, the princess is from the show Starfield, the magic pumpkin is a vegan food truck and the ball is the ExcelsiCon Cosplay Ball. This book spoke to my inner geek! I loved every cheesy line the characters dropped and relived the excitement of conventions through Elle's eyes. I look forward to more geeky retellings from Ashley Poston.

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Pale Demon

My reread of The Hollows series continues!

Rachel's back, and this time she is road tripping with Trent, Ivy, and Jenks. Yes, you read that right, Trent. Rachel is on her way to the annual witches conference to have her shunning rescinded and Trent is on a quest he refuses to talk about. This time around it isn't going to be Rachel who causes the commotion. It's never a good idea to keep secrets, but Trent is a master at them. Only this time his secret is going to put the team, and the world into a load of trouble.

True to The Hollows series nature, Pale Demon is filled with magic slinging action and narrow escapes. Rachel is going to have to embrace who she is and stop denying the power she holds. But if she accepts being a demon, it proves the coven right and she will forever be shunned. Rachel will have to decide if tapping into her full potential is worth being banished to the Ever After for the rest of her life.

But there is a lot more at stake than just Rachel's reputation. A new demon is stalking the streets in broad daylight. One even the demons don't want to deal with. Readers will learn more about the demons' history as Rachel tries to survive the new circumstances life throws at her.

There is no lack of conflict and tension within these pages. And don't forget Jenks' famous one lines and snide remarks. The team jumps from one situation to the next as they make their way to California. I enjoyed being able to pry into Trent's character a bit more. He is still very much a closed book, but Kim Harrison starts to let the reader see past the facade he puts out. It will certainly make you want to pick up the next book to see if you learn more.