Audiobook Review: Percy Jackson and the Olympians Book One: The Lightning Thief

Author: Rick Riordan
Narrator: Jesse Bernstein

Title:Percy Jackson and the Olympians Book One: The Lightning Thief

Publication: June 28, 2005

Publisher: Listening Library

Genre: Middle-Grade, Mythology

Pages: 416
Length: 10 hours and 1 minute

Audience: 10 and up

Rating: 3 out of 5

Source: Public Library

Synopsis (from Goodreads): Twelve-year-old Percy Jackson is about to be kicked out of boarding school . . . again. No matter how hard he tries, he can't seem to stay out of trouble. But can he really be expected to stand by and watch while a bully picks on his scrawny best friend? Or not defend himself against his pre-algebra teacher when she turns into a monster and tries to kill him? Of course, no one believes Percy about the monster incident; he's not even sure he believes himself. Until the Minotaur chases him to summer camp. Suddenly, mythical creatures seem to be walking straight out of the pages of Percy's Greek mythology textbook and into his life. The gods of Mount Olympus, he's coming to realize, are very much alive in the twenty-first century. And worse, he's angered a few of them: Zeus's master lightning bolt has been stolen, and Percy is the prime suspect. Now Percy has just ten days to find and return Zeus's stolen property, and bring peace to a warring Mount Olympus. On a daring road trip from their summer camp in New York to the gates of the Underworld in Los Angeles, Percy and his friends-one a satyr and the other the demigod daughter of Athena-will face a host of enemies determined to stop them. To succeed on his quest, Percy will have to do more than catch the true thief: he must come to terms with the father who abandoned him; solve the riddle of the Oracle, which warns him of failure and betrayal by a friend; and unravel a treachery more powerful than the gods themselves.

My thoughts:

 I know, I know. This book has been out for almost 10 years. It was something I always meant to pick up, but I always had something else to read. So now I'm making up for lost time. My husband and I went on a road trip a couple of weeks ago, and we now have a tradition of having an audiobook to listen to on the trip. He had tried to read The Lightning Thief a couple of times, but he always turned it off. I thought, AH HA! We are stuck in a car and I will not allow him to turn it off. The book started out slow for me, and I was able to figure every single thing out a chapter or in some cases many chapters ahead. However, the audience for this book isn't adult it is for middle-school aged kids. I think this book is perfect for middle schoolers and they might learn something in the process. I learned a few things even!
The characters were straight out of mythology, so nothing too new. Annabeth is the annoying little sister type character. Grover was the traditional best friend. Percy was the confused, main hero. It is like Harry Potter, but he isn't orphaned and it is mythology not magic. 
I listened to the audiobook and Jesse Bernstein did a great job. He did different voices for every single character. He is a talented narrator, and if you have a middle schooler, you should make them listen to this book. He only had one tic that kind of annoyed me. Every time he said "Grover" it was more like, "Grover?", but in a mom type voice. You know, when you get into trouble and your mom says, "Susie? What did you do?" He seemed to do that a lot, but it is nothing major, just something I noticed.
So if you're bored, this is a great listen. I'm not sure I'll listen to the others because I'm older, but if I had read them when they came out, I probably would have loved them more.

Fables Volume 1: Legends in Exile

Author: Bill Willingham

Illustrator: James Jean,  Alex Medina, Steve Leialoha, Craig Hamilton
Title:Fables: Legends in Exile

Publication: November 21, 2011

Publisher: Vertical

Genre: Graphic Novel, Comic Book

Pages: 128

Audience: 17 and up

Rating: 3 out of 5

Source: Purchased

Synopsis (from the cover): In Fabletown, where fairy tale legends live alongside regular New Yorkers, the question is all anyone can talk about. But only the Big Bad Wolf can actually solve the case- and, along with Rose's sister Snow White, keep the Fabletown community from coming apart at the seams.

My thoughts:

I love Once Upon a Time. I watched an interview with the creators and actors of the show, and an audience member had asked the creators was the story and ideas of their own, from Disney, or Fables? The creators said it was a mix of all of them, but it was ideas that sprang up from their minds. I thought this would be similar and I should give it a try. It was okay, but it was lacking something. I'm not sure what, but it just wasn't my favorite story arc. I have bought some of the series, so I plan to give it a go. I hear from many people, "You have to read this!" Maybe, it will get better, but the first story was not the best. I found the characters more interesting than the storyline, and I really enjoyed the short story in the back of the graphic novel. The characters were really easy to pick out, and I found an eerie resemblance of Fables Snow White to Once Upon a Time's Regina. Everyone from Little Boy Blue to Prince Charming to Snow White to Cinderella were in the graphic novel. I am going to give the series another try just because I have bought a good chunk of it. Otherwise, I would recommend checking it out at the library and giving it a try. You aren't wasting any money that way.

River Road by Suzanne Johnson

Author: Suzanne Johnson
Title: River Road: Sentinels of New Orleans #2

Publication: November 13,2012

Publisher: Tor Books

Genre: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Mystery

Pages: 336

Audience: 18 and up

Rating: 5 out of 5

Source: Inter Library Loan (Public Library)

Synopsis (from the Goodreads.com): Hurricane Katrina is long gone, but the preternatural storm rages on in New Orleans. New species from the Beyond moved into Louisiana after the hurricane destroyed the borders between worlds, and it falls to wizard sentinel Drusilla Jaco and her partner, Alex Warin, to keep the preternaturals peaceful and the humans unaware. But a war is brewing between two clans of Cajun merpeople in Plaquemines Parish, and down in the swamp, DJ learns, there’s more stirring than angry mermen and the threat of a were-gator.

Wizards are dying, and something—or someone—from the Beyond is poisoning the waters of the mighty Mississippi, threatening the humans who live and work along the river. DJ and Alex must figure out what unearthly source is contaminating the water and who—or what—is killing the wizards. Is it a malcontented merman, the naughty nymph, or some other critter altogether? After all, DJ’s undead suitor, the pirate Jean Lafitte, knows his way around a body or two.

It’s anything but smooth sailing on the bayou as the Sentinels of New Orleans series continues.

My thoughts:
This is a series where each book gets better and better. I really enjoyed the last book, but this one was just as enjoyable. I love how the books are a paranormal mystery. I like to try to figure out who the murderer is. There are also new creatures involved in the story. Merpeople, nymphs, a loup garou, and a possible were-gator siting. There was a lot going on in this book, but it wasn't overwhelming it just kept the storyline flowing. All my favorite characters were back. There were some new characters thrown into the mix and a few that were taken too soon. I try to solve the mystery as I go along. However, this story kept me guessing until it was obvious who the bad guy was. Also, the ending was a bit of a romantic cliff hanger. As soon as I finished, I flipped to page for more. When I realized that was the end I started shouting, "NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! You cannot do this to me!" My fiance' thought I was hurt so he came running to my aid. 
So if you want a wonderfully written paranormal mystery, this book series is worth a try. Elysian Fields is the third book of the series and came out on August 13. I've contacted my local library and have asked them to please purchase the new one. I wait cannot to read it!

Mystic by Alyson Noel

Author: Alyson Noel

Title:Mystic: Soul Seekers #3

Publication: May 7, 2013

Publisher: St. Martin Griffin

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Native American, Latina/Latino

Pages: 321

Audience: 16 and up

Rating:  3 out of 5

Source: Public Library

Synopsis (from the cover): When a made prophet and his beautiful daughter arrive in Enchantment determined to destroy all the Richters by the end of the week. Daire knows she had to stop them. Cade and her beloved Dace are so deeply connected that if one dies, the other will follow. But Dace has been missing for days, and his soul is in danger. Relying on the help of her friends, a Mystic with dubious motives, and powers she can't always trust, Daire sets out to find Dace, restore his soul, and end this deadly new threat before the final count down beings- all while keeping the Richters from claiming total world domination. But will it prove enough to win the most important fight of her life?

My thoughts:
I was so excited for this book, the audiobook to be exact. Echo left us on on huge cliffhanger that only this book could resolve. The library was not able to order the audiobook so I decided to read it. I realize now that I cannot stand the author's writing style. It was my problem all along. That is why the characters sound so annoying.
After the cliff hanger was resolved, it was really hard to continue on with the novel, but I managed. I felt this book was a bit weak compared to the others. There was plenty of action, but it felt like there was a lot going on and some of it was not resolved and we were rushed to the end. I believe the author will answer some of the remaining questions in the next book, maybe. I don't want to ruin the story line but, there is a part where a character has the potential to become possessed by demons, and I felt there was no need for that. We understood the urgency of that character's situation, and the whole possession bit could have been left out. 
As always, I feel the storyline is what saves this novel. This novel does have some redeeming qualities. We are able to read from several different character's perspective. My favorite character is back and stronger than before- Xochitl. There is more drama and action than the others contained, but as I said it seemed a bit much. However, the storyline is great and I will read the final book that is supposed to come out in November.

 

Batwoman Volume 2: To Drown the World

Author:J.H. Williams III, W. Haden Blackman

Illustrators: Amy Reeder and Trevor McCarthy
Title:Batwoman Volume 2: To Drown the World

Publication: January 22, 2013

Publisher: DC Comics

Genre: Graphic Novel, Comic Book

Pages: 144

Audience: 16 and up

Rating: 2 out of 5

Source: Purchased

Synopsis (from the cover): Murder. Madness. Monsters... Medusa. Taking its name from the horrifying creature of myth, this global conspiracy of crime has taken its war against goodness to Gotham City. 

There, its sinister agents prey upon Gotham's children, using the guises of urban legends. Ghosts in the mirror searching for bloody retribution. Monsters in the sewer hungering for innocent lives. Crazed specters spreading their pain in a  tide of blood. Brutal killers wielding death with a hook bladed hand. 

At Medusa's dark heart stands the Mother of Monsters. Her goal is to drown the world in darkness.  

But the Mother isn't Gotham's only dark spirit.

Batwoman's mind, body, and soul have been battered as never before. But she's emerged from her trials stronger than ever. Now on a collision course with Medusa, no one- not the GCPD, not the shadowy Department of Extranormal Operations, and not the men and women who care about her the most will stop her from seeking justice for the lost....

My thoughts:
What an utter and total disappointment.  I love the character Batwoman/ Kate Kane. She is a wonderful character and I believe there are so many (good) things the writers could do for her. However, this story was complete garbage in my opinion. The graphic novel was split up by people and their individual time lines that occurred over what appeared to be about a few weeks or so. It would jump from various character who were not Kate or Batwoman and the time line would jump around also. It was a complete jumbled mess. Also, the story is full of mythology and along with the timeline it was just incomprehensible. I was able to understand some of the basics of what was going on. It was like the graphic novel was a filler meant to tease the reader. It actually makes me angry that the storyline and the flow was such a mess. I'm actually trying to decide if I want to purchase the next graphic novel or not. Most fans do not question their loyalty, but I will unless a writer steps up to the task of sorting the chaos that the Batwoman plot is at the moment and sculpt it in a beautiful, well thought out story.

As for the art, it seems to have diminished a bit. She isn't as shiny or as detailed as I remember, which I can forgive. I do appreciate the artists attempts to bring Kate Kane's complexion to that of the living and less like a dead corpse. She is still pale, but she looked healthier and better than before. The art is still great even if the story is completely lacking.

I will read the next one, but I may wait for it to arrive at the library first.

 

Echo (The Soul Seekers): Audiobook

Author: Alyson Noel

Narrator: Brittany Pressley
Title:Echo (The Soul Seekers)

Publication: November 13, 2012

Publisher: Macmillan Audio

Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal, Fantasy

Pages: 352
Length: 9 hours 34 minutes

Audience: 17 and up

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Source: Public Library

Synopsis (from the cover): There's still so much Daire Santos has to learn about being the last Soul Seeker...and about herself. As her magical training become more intense, so does her relationship with Dace. But when she learns that his connection to the evil Richter family goes far deeper than she ever imagined., she begins to question if love really can conquer all. Dace is painfully aware that he wouldn't exist if it wasn't for the Richters' dark magic- and now his brother Cade is determined to use his love for Daire against him. Dace is willing to sacrifice his own life. But will Daire allow it? And what if defeating Cade costs not only his life but his soul too?

My thoughts:

 I thought Fated moved a little slow and made me a little unsure if I wanted to continue the story, but I really wanted to read Echo so I went for it. This book picks up the pace and throws in new people and new drama. I really liked this one. Daire's relationship and training even pick up pace and seem to rush a little bit, but time is of the essence! Even though the pace picks up, plenty of drama and new people are thrown in to slow things down. To make you wonder why people are disappearing, appearing, and/or reappearing. Also, Auden, Xotichl's (So-chee) boyfriend is making bets against her. She believes it will snow by Christmas and he believes it won't. He seems to be the only one betting against her. By the way, Xotichl is still my favorite character.
As I have said the book throws a lot more into the storyline and I feel like it really developed in this book. The ending of this book totally blew my mind. I would think, "Oh my goodness! This is going to happen!" only to have something completely different happen. The ending is a complete and utter cliff hanger. I've really enjoyed listening to the audio version of the book, but since it usually takes a while for the audiobook to come out, I am going to my public library on May 8, 2013 and hoping to goodness they will have this book on their shelves. I NEED to know what happens!
The audio is done once again by Brittany Pressley. In Echo, the perspective changes from Daire and Dace. Her voice is a little deeper and more relaxed for Dace and I really enjoyed listening to her narrate for him. I also enjoy the way she narrates for Paloma as well. In the epilogue of the book, the reader gets to hear from about 7-8 different character perspectives and their voices! It really brought the characters to life. It was a pretty cool ending to hear each individual character's thoughts and the insane cliff hanger.

Odd and the Frost Giants: Audiobook

Author: Neil Gaiman

Illustrator: Brett Heliquist

Title: Odd and the Frost Giants

Publication: September 22, 2009

Publisher: HarperCollins

Genre: Children's

Length: 1 and 1/2 hours
Pages: 128

Audience: 8 and up

Rating: 5 out of 5

Source: Public Library

 

Synopsis (from Goodreads):The winter isn't ending. Nobody knows why.
And Odd has run away from home, even though he can barely walk and has to use a crutch.
Out in the forest he encounters a bear, a fox, and an eagle - three creatures with a strange story to tell.
Now Odd is faced with a stranger journey than he had ever imagined.
A journey to save Asgard, City of the Norse Gods, from the Frost Giants who have invaded it.
It's going to take a very special kind of boy to defeat the most dangerous of all the Frost Giants and rescue the mighty Gods. Someone cheerful and infuriating and clever.
Someone just like Odd.

My thoughts:
This book was adorable, and I believe young children in particular, boys would love this book.  Odd is a young boy who will not let his disabilities put a limit on what he can do. As he ventures off on his own he will discover the world is much bigger and larger than his village. He will face great dangers, but not back down without a fight. Of course, Odd also has the help of Thor, Loki, and Odin all of whom he meets on his adventure. I do not know much about Norse mythology (except from what I know from the Marvel movies), but I really enjoyed this audiobook.

Neil Gaiman often narrates his own books. If you have never heard Mr. Gaiman narrate a book, then you are in for a treat! I listened to The Graveyard Book, Neverwhere, and Odd and the Frost Giants, all narrated by Neil Gaiman. His English accent is not overwhelming. The voices he gives each character is distinct to the point you know which character is speaking. I really enjoy it when the author narrates because they are able to portray the characters as they see them.

Just a note about the book, I did not read the book, but I did notice that Brett Heliquist was the illustrator. He illustrated The Series of Unfortunate Events. He is a great artist and if you are not an audiobook person, then I suggest the book. The book is great and I know the art will be great too.

Goddess of Spring by P.C. Cast

Author: P.C. Cast

Title: Goddess of Spring
Publication: November 4th, 2008
Publisher: Berkley Trade
Genre: Romance
Rating: 5 out 5

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Synopsis:  Lina's trendy bakery in Tulsa is proving to be less than lucrative, and she must come up with a plan. When she stumbles upon an Italian Goddess cookbook, Lina can't help but think she's found the answer to her problem—even if it means invoking a goddess to save her business.

Soon enough, Lina finds herself face-to-face with Demeter, who has a plan of her own. She proposes that Lina exchange souls with Persephone, the Goddess of Spring, who will breathe new life into the bakery. In return, Lina must set order to the Underworld.

Before all this, Lina's problems mostly involved sourdough and second dates. Now that she embodies the enchanting Persephone, Lina has weightier things on her mind—like the formidable task of bringing Spring to a world of spirits. But when the handsome, brooding Hades kindles a spark in her heart, Lina wonders if this Lord of the Underworld might be the man of her dreams..

Thoughts: This book is the second installment of the Goddess Summoning series. It's a twist of the Persephone / Hades story. Recap if you don't know the greek myth: Persephone (the goddess of spring) gets tricked into staying in the underworld by Hades (god of the underworld). Demeter (her mother) gets pissed and tattle tales to her brother Zeus (king of the gods). In the end, Persephone must stay in the underworld for six months. The end. I recommend reading the longer version of this myth. Almost all Greek gods have some sort of horrible ending to them. Persephone / Hades has a bittersweet ending which is better then every-other myth. Seriously, the stories get depressing.

Let's move onto the book, shall we? This story is a different version of the myth. Lina has to stay in the underworld with Hades and help with the gloomy spirits. She starts getting to know him and likes what she sees. Hades is kind, a little rusty on social skills (which you have to look past), and really wants the best for the souls that live in his realm. The other gods don't like visiting because... well... it's a world full of dead people, so when he tries to lighten up, he sometimes fails. It's cute and charming how he tries his hardest to make Lina feel at home. The whole time he thinks she's Persephone, so Lina has to act like a goddess. Unlike her other Goddess Summoning book Warrior Rising (which I reviewed here), this has no steamy sex scenes. It's very sweet and PG-13 rated. I would recommend this to a young adult that's looking to take a step up from books that revolve around high school.

I love PC Cast, and she's definitely tied with Gena Showalter and Meg Cabot on my "who should I marry" list. I don't have a ring yet... saw one at the mall that was beautiful but it was way to expensive. Plus all three authors are already married. That's okay though, I'll win them over. Oh yes... I'll win. *insert evil laugh*

The Sandman: Dream Hunters

Author:  Neil Gaiman
Illustrator: P. Craig Russell

Title: The Sandman: Dream Hunters

Publication: October 5, 2010

Publisher: Vertigo

Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy

Pages: 144

Audience: 15 and up

Rating: 5 out of 5

Source: Public Library

Synopsis (from the cover):The world was different in old Japan. In those days, creatures of myth and legend walked upon the earth, swam in the sea, flew through the air. Some were wild and some, at great cost, could be tamed. So it was that a wily fox made a wager to dislodge a humble young monk from his home--and lost her heart in the betting. So it was also that a master of the demons of this world set his own eyes on the monk, seeking to seize the pious man's inner strength for his own. And so it was, the King of All Night's Dreaming would find himself intervening on behalf of a love that was never meant to be.

My thoughts:

If you decide to read any comic for the heck of it- I suggest this one. The story is so beautiful. This graphic novel is just a side story of The Sandman. It is not crucial to the story line or anything and can be read at any time- before, during, or after The Sandman. I read the introductions and afterwords pretty much for any book I read. I believe the author put them there for a reason and so I take time to read them. Most of the time they give me an insight to the frame of mind I need to be in read or a back story, but 9 out of 10 times I read them. The introduction to this graphic novel let's the reader know that this is not the original illustrations for the graphic novel when it was originally released. This copy is a re-released for an anniversary of The Sandman that is illustrated by P. Craig Russell who really wanted to illustrate the story. The original graphic novel was illustrated by Yoshitaka Amano. I really really enjoyed this story. In the introduction Neil Gaiman talks about the original one and how he has made up sources that he used for the story. However, people were trying to use the fake sources to find the actual folklore. He apologizes for creating fake sources and for creating such a believable, but false Japanese folklore tale. Dream is not in it much, but he plays a pivotal role in the story. The love story is like a Romeo and Juliet, but in a Japanese setting and is a story about a monk and a fox. It sounds a little weird, but read it and trust me it makes sense. I stayed up really late to finish this graphic novel because I could not put it down, and it needed to be returned the library.

The Sandman: Endess Nights

Author:  Neil Gaiman
Illustrators: Glenn Fabry, Milo Manara, Dave McKean Miguelanxo Prado, Frank Quitely, P. Craig Russell, Bill Sienkiewicz, and Barron Storey

Title: The Sandman: Endless Nights

Publication: September 1, 2004

Publisher: Vertigo

Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy

Pages: 160

Audience: 16 and up

Rating: 5 our of 5

Source: Public Library

Goodreads Synopsis:  
 "The Sandman: Endless Nights" reveals the legend of the Endless, a family of magical and mythical beings. In this highly imaginative book that boasts diverse styles of breathtaking full-color art, seven peculiar and powerful siblings each reveal more about their true beings as they star in their own tales

My thoughts:

I enjoyed the graphic novel, but not as much as I thought I would. I guess I've overdone it on the Sandman series, but there are little single stories here and there that I feel are important to read as well. Also, Neil Gaiman has recently stated that he is going to release new material about the Sandman in 2013. I going to take a break after the last single story and then I'll be ready to tackle the new stuff in 2013.
Anyway,the stories take place before the Sandman series. The focus in Endless Nights is on Dream's siblings- Death, Delirium, Despair, Desire, Destruction, and Destiny. It was very interesting. I'm so used to everything focusing on Dream that is was a nice change of pace to focus on the other siblings and what a day of their life is like. I don't want to ruin anything, but it explains why Dream does not trust Desire. Death's story was really neat and you see how she has changed. Death was not always a happy Endless character. The weirdest stories was Delirium's and Despair's. Delirium's story is kind of crazy in itself. I'm not entirely sure what happened and I'm pretty sure that was the point. I have ideas, but I'll keep them to myself. If you read it and ever want to discuss it, you can leave a comment or email me. Despair's story was really weird. The artists did many Portraits of Despair. I probably spent a good two minutes or so studying each portrait, no two were the same. The Despair in this graphic novel was the Despair before the one we meet in the Sandman series. Essentially, this was a prequel to the Sandman series. I will be honest and say I cannot really remember any story about Destiny, but I feel like there is a little bit, but not much to change how mysterious he is. I'm pretty sure Destruction was in it, but I cannot be completely sure. It has been a little while, and I've read other things since then. It was  a nice little side story and gave some background information on the other Endless characters.

Goddess of the Rose by P. C. Cast

Author: P.C. Cast

Title: Goddess of the Rose
Publication: January 6th, 2009
Publisher: Berkley Trade
Genre: Romance
Rating: 4.5 out 5

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Amazon | BN

Synopsis:  When modern-day Mikki ends up in the strange Realm of the Rose, Hecate has been waiting for her. So too has her gorgeous guardian beast, who soon has Mikki swooning. But to save the realm, Mikki will have to sacrifice her life-giving blood.

Thoughts: In P. C. Casts 4^th installment of Goddess of Summoning, she tells the tale Beauty and the Beast with the goddess of choice: Hecate. Mikki (aka Beauty) gets sucked into the “Relam of the Rose” by accidentally summoning Hecate. It’s then told that Mikki’s family line gives drops of blood in order to fuel a garden full of the finest roses.

The first thing I’m going to say is: Bestiality. Yes lady and gents, the book has bestiality in it. He’s described as a minotaur (part man part bull), mostly covered in hair, hooves as feet, and blood red horns. Personality I’m not into that kind of stuff, I’m more of a woman/man relationship. The connection between Beast and Mikki is remarkable. Cast writes the story in detail – too much detail sometimes – so you really get a sense of the world she got herself into. The reason why Cast is one of my favorite romance authors is because of her main heroines. They’re always independent, strong, and have attitudes that aren’t wishy-washy. The women always know what they want and have a goal to strive for. You’ll always root for them, and in this book it’s not different. Mikki is a wonderful woman, and the relationships between her and everyone else are sincere, kind, and honest.

Again, the sex scene didn’t do it for me, I skipped over that part... which is sad because they’re my favorite. *sulk* The storyline and character development overcame my sadness of no hot sexyness. Some parts of the book are in a little too much detail (I end up saying “I get it! Move forward please!”) so it lost 1/2 point. I recommend this book if you like Casts other works, but if you’re just starting the romance novel world I wouldn’t start with this one… unless you’re into bestiality. Then go for it.

Becca Fitzpatrick Giveaway! -- INT

Win both Hush Hush AND Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick!

Hush Hush (Goodreads summary)

For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her...until Patch comes along.
With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment, but after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure whom to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is far more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel. For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life.

Crescendo (Goodreads summary)

Nora Grey's life is still far from perfect. Surviving an attempt on her life wasn't pleasant, but at least she got a guardian angel out of it: a mysterious, magnetic, gorgeous guardian angel. But, despite his role in her life, Patch has been acting anything but angelic. He's more elusive than ever and even worse, he's started spending time with Nora's arch-enemy, Marcie Millar.

Nora would have hardly noticed Scott Parnell, an old family friend who has moved back to town, if Patch hadnt been acting so distant. Even with Scott's totally infuriating attitude Nora finds herself drawn to him - despite her lingering feeling that he's hiding something.

Haunted by images of her murdered father, and questioning whether her nephilim bloodline has anything to do with his death, Nora puts herself increasingly in dangerous situations as she desperately searches for answers. But maybe some things are better left buried, because the truth could destroy everything - and everyone - she trusts.

Win these two books by using the rafflecopter below! I look at the winners details. If you say you comment but didn't, or follow when you didn't put a twitter / GFC handle, it wont count.

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The Sandman Collected Library

Author: Neil Gaiman

Title:The Sandman

Publication: January 1989 until March 1996

Publisher: Vertigo

Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Mythology

Pages (Number of graphic novels): 10

Audience: 17 and up

Rating: 5 out of 5

Source: Public Library

Goodreads Synopsis: Neil Gaiman's epic mythological fantasy about Dream, one of the seven Endless who embody destiny, death, dream, destruction, desire, despair, delight, and delirium.

My thoughts:

As we all know, I am a Neil Gaiman fan. After hearing and seeing the Sandman saga over the years, I decided it was time to read it all. I have recently turned to graphic novels because my boyfriend was reading them and enjoying them. I decided to give it a try and I survived. I believe I started reading the Sandman either in December 2011 or January 2012. Either way, my journey with the Endless has been over a span of 5-7 months. The local public library has made plenty of money on the fines I've paid for these books, and then in turn I've waited months for some of the graphic novels to be returned. I feel like it is unfair to lump them together like this. Each novel contains a story all on it's own, and in the end they come together and become a beautiful cohesive story. I strongly recommend reading them in order and in a timely manner. I shamefully had forgotten characters from volume one by the time I reached volume eight. Gaiman does refresh your memory so you are not in the dark, but it would be better to read them closer together. The artwork in the novels is just amazing and disturbing. This is not a pretty, everything is happy graphic novel, it has some really gritty moments. However, the story is really entertaining. I can't say much about the plot or characters without ruining something, but I will give a brief over view. The main story is about Dream/Morpheus/The Sandman, he goes by several names. He is part of the Endless family that have been around before mankind and will continue until all mankind is dead. You meet his family and their importance to him and to mankind. It is an extremely fascinating tale. I hate to say this, but I'm going to anyway. Please forgive me if you are a graphic novel/comic book fan. I am one too, but I believe the storyline in this particular library collection is more story base and art base driven than the typical comic book. This is not your typical art you see in a comic nor is it the typical story line. It is just like reading an actual novel, but with pictures that help convey the story. If you ever wanted to try a graphic novel or try comic books, I believe this is the best crossover between a novel type story and a comic book. Go pick up Nocturnes and Preludes, it is the introduction and the story is a little slow until volume 3, and then you see the cohesiveness about volume 6, that is when everything starts tying together. The only thing I did not like was the last  two volumes. It answered questions and provided a great conclusion, but I felt like ending with volume eight would have been perfect. Like I said, I understand the last two volumes concluded the saga/series/library, but I just felt eight was perfect for ending it. I also know that Neil Gaiman loved writing the Sandman and continues to produce "side" stories, which are stories that either took place before or after the Sandman library. I encourage you as a reader to step out of your comfort zone and try just one comic book/graphic novel. You don't have to like it or continue with the series, but try something new. Who knows, you may like it. I know I did!

The Darkest Night by Gena Showalter

Author:Gena Showalter

Title: The Darkest Night
Publication: May 1st, 2008
Publisher: HQN Books
Genre: Romance
Rating: 5 out 5

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Synopsis: 

His powers -- Inhuman...
His passion -- Beyond immortal . . .All her life, Ashlyn Darrow has been tormented by voices from the past. To end the nightmare, she has come to Budapest seeking help from men rumored to have supernatural abilities, not knowing she'll be swept into the arms of Maddox, their most dangerous member--a man trapped in a hell of his own.Neither can resist the instant hunger that calms their torments...and ignites an irresistible passion. But every heated touch and burning kiss will edge them closer to destruction--and a soul-shattering test of love. Though they carry an eternal curse, the Lords of the Underworld are irresistibly seductive -- and unimaginably powerful.

Thoughts:  

Gena Showalter is my favorite Romance author (apart from P.C. Cast). The first romance book I've read was written by her -- which I'm going to review soon of course -- and I've been hooked ever since! It starts out with the Lords of the Underworld. They're each cursed with a demon as punishment for killing Pandora. The demons are everyday tormants we sometimes go through such as lies, pain, death, wrath, nightmares, secrets, defeat. These demons control their life. The punishment is horrible if they don't cave into their demons. If the lord is "lies", he'll be in incredible pain if he tells the truth, or if one of the lords is "defeat" he'll go insane if he didn't win, and "pain"... well, he just likes to be in pain. This book is about the keeper of Violence. He's the badass of the group, and the most dangerous.

Ashlyn is troubled with sercrets herself. When they both meet, passion flares. She's sweet and innocent, which makes Maddox very protective and loyal. Both of them fight their demons together. The book is your normal romance story: big macho man, sweet innocent girl, KLABAM sex.

What makes this story different is the personalities of all the lords. Each of them are different and you end up wanting their story too. It's about having a hard life, but finding someone who can balance out that harshness with love. It's a good read if you want something steamy. She explains sex in detail, so if you want something descret or toned down this isn't for you.

Warrior Rising by P.C. Cast

Author: P.C. Cast

Title: Warrior Rising
Publication: May 6th, 2008
Publisher: Berkley Trade
Genre: Romance
Rating: 5 out 5

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Synopsis:  The Goddesses have had it with the Trojan War. So much devastation all because of some silly male egos. The worst of the bunch is that cocky, handsome brute Achilles. But the only way to stop a man like Achilles is to distract him with something far more pleasurable than combat?

Enter Kat, a modern girl from Tulsa, Oklahoma. The Goddesses transform her into a Trojan princess, having no doubt that she?ll capture Achilles?s attention. But can her independent spirit match the unquenchable fire of his epic rage? Goddess only knows?

Thoughts: P.C. Cast steals my breath away. I have not started her YA series, but her adult writings... *shivers*. One of my favorite book of hers is Warrior Rising. It's based on the famous Greek Trojan War. It's the 6th book to the Goddess Summoning series -- which you don't have to read in order, they're all separate stories -- and in my opinion of the hottest. You follow 31 year old Kat who gets sucked into an 18 year old body. She's supposed to stop Achilles from advancing the war. This is where my personal preference comes in: Hard, moody, sexy, troubled man who's actually sweet and innocent. You see a different side to him, and he's someone you'll grow feelings for too. I seriously want to lick him from head to toe. (Is that a little much? Maybe.) The cover I provided you with is an alternative cover. There are two, but I find this one to have more abs and he's carrying a big sword, which shows the masculinity of him. Thus, this cover is chosen and I'll come back to oogle as many times as I can.


Kat is independent, fierce, smart, and extremely caring. She's the type of person you want to have as a friend. Both of them together are a perfect match. He's the big testosterone warrior, and she softens him. The plot has a good pace, it's not slow or boring. It's definitely a book for someone who wants a step above YA, so please don't read if you're not ready for romance to go in depth.

Underworld by Meg Cabot

Author: Meg Cabot

Title: Underworld
Publication: May 8th, 2012
Publisher: Point
Genre: Young Adult
Rating: 5 out 5

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Synopsis: Escape from the realm of the dead is impossible when someone there wants you back.

Seventeen-year-old Pierce Oliviera isn’t dead.
Not this time.
But she is being held against her will in the dim, twilit world between heaven and hell, where the spirits of the deceased wait before embarking upon their final journey.
Her captor, John Hayden, claims it’s for her own safety. Because not all the departed are dear. Some are so unhappy with where they ended up after leaving the Underworld, they’ve come back as Furies, intent on vengeance…on the one who sent them there and on the one whom he loves.
But while Pierce might be safe from the Furies in the Underworld, far worse dangers could be lurking for her there…and they might have more to do with its ruler than with his enemies.
And unless Pierce is careful, this time there’ll be no escape.

Thoughts:  Meg Cabot is one of my favorite authors. Her humor, strong characters and interesting storylines is what makes her a thrilling writer. This trilogy is based on the greek myth featuring Hades, lord of the underworld, and his queen Persephone, goddess of spring. In the first book -- Abandoned -- Pierce (aka Persephone) died and was brought back to life by John (Hades). He has a big-boy crush on her, and doesn't want to let her go. He wants Pierce to live in the Underworld with him. The second book starts where the first left off. She's in the Underworld and wants to get out and back to the living. The plot is about Pierce finding a way to stay out of Johns reach, even though it's stated in the first book she loves him. John is such a sweet guy. He's done things in the past that brought him to the Underworld, and your heart squeezes when he tries hard to omit the truth because he loves Pierce. Just like the first book, you're going to root for the heroine. She's smart, doesn't take crap, cares for her family, and has a strong heart. This is a good read if you want something that makes you feel happy. It definitely ends with a cliffhanger, so watch out for that! Five stars.