Book Review: The Dream Thieves

Now that the ley lines around Cabeswater have been woken, nothing for Ronan, Gansey, Blue, and Adam will be the same.

Ronan, for one, is falling more and more deeply into his dreams, and his dreams are intruding more and more into waking life.

Meanwhile, some very sinister people are looking for some of the same pieces of the Cabeswater puzzle that Gansey is after...

The Dream Thieves by Maggie Stiefvater was very high on my holiday wishlist, and I was thrilled when I unwrapped it. I loved The Raven Boys so I was excited to delve back into this world.

As with all of Maggie's books, the story takes time to unfold. Her books are rather slow reads for me, as they're so interesting and beautifully written that I read slow and savor each word. When the writing is this good, there's no need to rush through it.

The Dream Thieves picks up where The Raven Boys left off, the search for a sleeping Welsh king, Glendower. Each of the characters have an important role to play in finding him. This book features Ronan a bit more than the first one, letting us get to know him better. He's kind of a jerk, but it's obvious that he cares a lot about the important people in his life. And I like the evolution he goes through in this book.

Another thing that made me love this book more than the first, was the inclusion of Jane's Blue's family. I think my favorite character in the entire series is Maura, Blue's mother. If I could pick any place to live out of any book I've read, I think it'd be 300 Fox Way. There is never a dull moment around there. I love the eccentric personalities that Maggie created it.

Book three doesn't have a title yet, but I'll be eagerly awaiting that and the cover. Because the covers. are. so. fantastic! If you haven't read this series, go pick up The Raven Boys right now. And you should probably just pick up The Dream Thieves while you're there to save yourself the trip. Or, if you want signed copies, they are always available at Fountain Bookstore in Virginia. PS... they will ship to you!

Book Review: Forsaken

Mara's mother is missing, her little brother is sick, may be dying, her father is grieving. It all seems hopeless - until Mara sets out on a life or death journey to bring her mother home.

I am a huge fan of Katherine Langrish, so when I found out she had a mermaid book, I had to get my hands on it. Forsaken was an extremely short book. I could have read the entire thing in less than 20 minutes, but I drew out the reading experience and made sure I broke it down into two sittings.

Mara's father is a merman. Mara and all of her siblings are merchildren. But Mara's mother is human. She left her world for the man she fell in love with. But she grew tired of living in the ocean and longed for her home. So she leaves her children and husband behind.

This is the story of Mara's journey, venturing on land to find her mother. While very short, it's a wonderful story. I highly recommend it!

Book Review: The Unnaturalists

In an alternate London where magical creatures are preserved in a museum, two teens find themselves caught in a web of intrigue, deception, and danger.

Vespa Nyx wants nothing more than to spend the rest of her life cataloging Unnatural creatures in her father’s museum, but as she gets older, the requirement to become a lady and find a husband is looming large. Syrus Reed’s Tinker family has always served and revered the Unnaturals from afar, but when his family is captured to be refinery slaves, he finds that his fate may be bound up with Vespa’s—and with the Unnaturals.

As the danger grows, Vespa and Syrus find themselves in a tightening web of deception and intrigue. At stake may be the fate of New London—and the world.

I received an arc of The Unnaturalists by Tiffany Trent for review. It's set in an alternate Victorian London and follows Vespa Nyx and Syrus Reed. Vespa is a young woman who lives with her father and aunt (her father's sister) and lives for working in her father's museum. This museum is filled with "unnaturals" which includes a sphinx, silphids, and other oddities. She longs to be a Pedant, but women aren't allowed to become take on that role. Syrus is a tinker. He lives with his family in the forest. They have their own village and way of life. They practice magic and are feared. But i much preferred their way of life over the "normal" people.

I don't want to say too much because there are a lot of twists and turns, and Tiffany Trent definitely keeps us guessing. Vespa is not who we initially believe her to be. Neither is Syrus. In fact, Pedant Lumin, Vespa's father, and a whole host of characters have secrets that you'll be dying to figure out. I really liked Vespa and Syrus. I loved that in this world Charles Darwin is considered a saint. And Arthur Rackham is named. There were a lot of little things that made my geeky self grin while reading.

One thing I really liked about The Unnaturalists, one thing that stood out and deserves a mention, was the lack of romance between the two main characters. Most every YA book I've read has romance. And while I'm not opposed to romance, it tends to be as big a plot point as the paranormal stuff going down. So this was a refreshing change. And have you seen this cover? The picture in this post is pretty, but you really must hold it in your hands to fully appreciate it. It's one of my favorite covers of all of 2012. And while you have this book in your hands, check out the first few chapters. Trust me, you'll not want to put this book down.

Book Review: Before I Wake

I died on a Thursday-

killed by a monster intent on stealing my soul.

The good news? He didn't get it.

The bad news?

Turns out not even death will get you out of high school...

Covering up her own murder was one thing, but faking life is much harder than Kaylee Cavanaugh expected. After weeks spent "recovering," she's back in school, fighting to stay visible to the human world, struggling to fit in with her friends and planning time alone with her new reaper boyfriend.

But to earn her keep in the human world, Kaylee must reclaim stolen souls, and when her first assignment brings her face-to-face with an old foe, she knows the game has changed. Her immortal status won't keep her safe. And this time Kaylee isn't just gambling with her own life....

I've been a fan of Rachel Vincent's Soul Screamers series since there was only one book. And it's been one of my favorite series these past few years. If I Die was so amazing, I was worried that Before I Wake could not live up to my high expectations. Except... it did! It was so amazing that I'm not sure how the final book will top it, but I have faith that Rachel Vincent can manage it.

In the last book, our main character died. But we know that death isn't the end in this world. She and Tod must work together, along with Nash, Sabine, Emma, new character Luca, and Kaylee's cousin Sophie to solve another supernatural mystery and defeat the hellion that won't give up until he has Kaylee's soul. Avari and his hellion friends have found a way to do something that until now has been impossible, but Kaylee isn't giving up.

I can't tell you how much I loved this book without spoilering you all. I love Tod, and I love that he's with Kaylee. I'm still not loving Nash, but I really enjoy Sabine's scenes. Sophie's character has gotten more interesting as the story has progressed, and I can't wait to see where Rachel takes this fabulous series. With All My Soul is set to come out next April and will conclude the series with seven books. My fingers are crossed for another short story or novella to pop up some time between now and then. If you haven't read these books, what are you waiting for?

Novella Review: Elemental

Earth, Fire, Air, Water – they are more than you dream.

As an air Elemental, 17-year-old Emily Morgan doesn’t have much power. That’s okay—she knows what happens to kids who do.

Like Michael Merrick. He’s an earth Elemental, one with enough power to level cities. Which makes him sexy. Dangerous. And completely off limits. At least according to Emily’s family.

But her summer job puts her in close contact with Michael, and neither of them can help the attraction they feel. When forces of nature like theirs collide, one misstep could get someone killed. Because Emily’s family doesn’t just want her to stay away from him.v
They want him dead.

I must admit that I picked up Elemental by Brigid Kemmerer because I was curious about this new series. As a pagan, I know what true elementals are, and I was curious as to how they were being written in novels. I wasn't sure what to expect, but this novella surprised me. I really enjoyed it.

Emily is an air elemental with little power and Michael is an earth elemental, the strongest around. And they are forbidden from associating with each other. Many of the elementals want to kill Michael. They fear his power and are sure the world would be better off with someone who wasn't so powerful. Emily has been warned to stay away from him, as he's incredibly dangerous, but when he walks into her place of work, the two are forced to be around each other. And neither of their families want them going back to that location.

Michael might be as powerful as Emily's family believes, but is he as dangerous? Emily begins to think not, as she begins to fall for him. This was a quick, cute read, and it surpassed my expectations. I definitely recommend checking this one out. I plan to read the first novel of this series, Storm, soon.

Book Review: Feyland: The Dark Realm

I forbid ye maidens all 

who let fly your lovely hair 

to go down to Carterhaugh 

for young Tam Lin is there

WHEN A GAME... Feyland is the most immersive computer game ever designed, and Jennet Carter is the first to play the prototype. But she doesn't suspect the virtual world is close enough to touch -- or that she'll be battling for her life against the Dark Queen of the faeries.

TURNS REAL...

Tam Linn is the perfect hero -- in-game. Too bad the rest of his life is seriously flawed. The last thing he needs is rich-girl Jennet prying into his secrets, insisting he's the only one who can help her.

WINNING IS EVERYTHING...

Together, Jennet and Tam enter the Dark Realm of Feyland, only to discover that the entire human world is in danger. Pushed to the limit of their abilities, they must defeat the Dark Queen... before it's too late.

I have to admit when I picked up Feyland: The Dark Realmby Anthea Sharp I was nervous. While I love books about faeries, I'm really picky about the use of folklore. Thankfully, Anthea Sharp knows her lore.

Our two main characters are Jennet Carter and Tam Linn. I love the names. They come straight from the Ballad of Tam Lin, an old Scottish ballad. In the prologue, Jennet is playing the final level of the new Full-D sim video game, Feyland. It's not available yet, but her father is a developer of the company, so she is the first person to play it. And, hopefully, to win it. But the final level brings her face to face with the Unseelie Queen. And... she loses. The dark queen takes a bit of her soul. Sounds interesting, yes? Only the energy the dark queen takes is real. But she has a chance to get herself back. But she needs to find a champion. On to chapter one. Months pass. Jennet and her father move after a terrible tragedy within the company where one of their own, Thomas Rimer (another name I love), dies. The game is off-limits to Jennet, but that won't hold her back. She meets Tam and invites him to game.

Another thing that caused my initial unease was the addition of gaming. I'm not a gamer. Well, I rock out like a fool with my Guitar Hero, but the sim thing is not for me. Also... technology and faeries... it didn't sound like it would mesh. But when Jennet and Tam sat down to play, they didn't just go into game. They entered Faerie. Puck was a great addition, and I loved seeing brownies, will o' wisps, and more faeries.

This story was interesting and beautifully told. It definitely surpassed my expectations. The use of folklore was fantastic. A lot of what happened I guessed, and knowing the Ballad of Tam Lin, I guessed the ending, but that didn't take any of the enjoyment out this wonderful story. Definitely check it out, and if you need more convincing check out Anthea Sharp's website to read an excerpt.

*lines at the top are the chorus of Tricky Pixie's Tam Lin, my favorite version. You can hear the entire song on the website, or buy it if you need it on your iPod. ; )

Book Review: The Harp of the Grey Rose

He is the Songweaver, but before he was a master of song he was merely Cerin of Wran Cheaping—a seventeen-year-old orphan raised by a wildland witch. Then he encountered the Maid of the Grey Rose—the lone survivor of the war that devastated the Trembling Lands and the promised bride of Yarac Stone-Slayer, the feared and terrible Waster. The mysterious beauty captured Cerin’s heart, drawing him into a world both dark and deadly, until, armed with only a tinkerblade and the magic of song, he would take on a man’s challenge . . . and choose a treacherous path toward a magnificent destiny. The Harp of the Grey Rose is award-winning fantasist Charles de Lint’s first novel, long out of print—and it hints of the wonderful stories to come.

Book Review: The Riddle of the Wren

Minda Sealy is afraid of her own nightmares. Then, one night, while asleep, she meets Jan, the Lord of the Moors, who has been imprisoned by Ildran the Dream-master-the same being who traps Minda. In exchange for her promise to free him, Jan gives Minda three tokens. She sets out, leaving the safety of her old life to begin a journey from world to world, both to save Jan and to solve "the riddle of the Wren"-which is the riddle of her very self. The Riddle of the Wren was Charles de Lint's first novel, and has been unavailable for years. Fans and newcomers alike will relish it.

Review

Book Review: If I Die

The entire school's talking about the gorgeous new math teacher, Mr. Beck. Everyone except Kaylee Cavanaugh. After all, Kaylee's no ordinary high-school junior. She's a banshee—she screams when someone dies.

But the next scream might be for Kaylee.

Yeah—it's a shock to her, too. So to distract herself, Kaylee's going to save every girl in school. Because that hot new teacher is really an incubus who feeds on the desire of unsuspecting students. The only girls immune to his lure are Kaylee and Sabine, her boyfriend's needy ex-girlfriend. Now the unlikely allies have to get rid of Mr. Beck…before he discovers they aren't quite human, either.

But Kaylee's borrowed lifeline is nearing its end. And those who care about her will do anything to save her life.

Anything.

If I Die is the fifth book in Rachel Vincent's Soul Screamers series. And it is, by far, my favorite. I don't really know how to review this book and keep it spoiler-free. But no worries... I'm going to try.

Kaylee and Nash are trying to work things out and get back to where they were. Sabine is still around and still in love with Nash. And poor Tod is still on the fringes, his feelings for Kaylee going unnoticed. Well... only unnoticed by Kaylee. Tod shows up one afternoon to deliver awful news. Kaylee's name is on a reaping list. And since her lifeline is borrowed, she can't trade it again. Which means she'll die. But before that, she makes it her goal to get rid of the new math teacher hottie, an incubus eager to reproduce, who comes on to Kaylee's bestie, Emma.

The plot in If I Die was more intense and complicated than the previous four novels. And it kept me on the edge of my seat, curious as to how Ms. Vincent was going to pull this one off. The main character is supposed to die, but be around to narrate book 6?!

If you haven't picked up this series... Seriously, what are you waiting for? The Soul Screamers is definitely one of my favorite YA series, and I cannot wait for Before I Wake.

Book Review: The Scorpio Races (and giveaway)

Cappall Uisce
Water Horse

It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die.

At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.

Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.

I was lucky enough to get my hands on an arc of The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater. I loved her previous five novels so I had high expectations for this one. And I wasn't disappointed.

Sean, the returning champion of the Scorpio Races, and his cappall uisce, Corr, return to the beach to train with new racers. Including Puck, and her horse, Dove. Puck intends to race Dove, a horse not much bigger than a pony, against several deadly cappall uisce. They emerge from the sea onto the island of Thisby, hungry for flesh each Autumn. They ravage sheep, dogs, anything they can find, and they return to the sea unless caught to be trained to race. Riders die before the race even begins, and people come from afar to bet on and see this race on the beach of Thisby.

Puck, who's real name is Kate, is one of our main characters. She splits narration with Sean. The two meet and share an instant dislike for each other. Sean doesn't want to see a girl and her horse on the dangerous beach. And Puck doesn't care for this bossy know-it-all. But as time goes by, things change.

Puck is racing to save her family's home - it's just her and her two brothers - and to keep the older one from leaving for the mainland. Sean is racing for the right to buy Corr, his red cappall uisce. But both can't win the races.

I loved this book so much. I almost felt like I was there on Thisby. My favorite part was the festival where the riders announced their decision to race. There were so many incredible aspects to that scene that I loved, but I'll leave those for when you read it. I'm also very much into faery lore. The cappall uisce, which translates to water horse, is a kelpie. Don't get on one's back in the water, or he'll drown you.

I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone. Especially if you like faery. The Scorpio Races ranks in at number two of my favorite Maggie books, topped only by Ballad.

Maggie Stiefvater is doing a book signing in two days time. I plan to go and get a copy signed for myself. I also plan to get a copy for one of you! (If I don't make it to the signing, I will give away an unsigned copy.)

1. Must follow my blog
2. Must be 13 or older.
3. Open International (US cover).
4. Fill out this form.

Good luck! Giveaway ends 10/30, midnight EST. Winner announced on Halloween.

Book Review: Ballad

A Gathering of Faerie...

In this mesmerizing sequel to Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception, music prodigy James Morgan and his best friend, Deirdre, join a private conservatory for musicians. James' musical talent attracts Nuala, a soul-snatching faerie muse who fosters and feeds on the creative energies of exceptional humans until they die. Composing beautiful music together unexpectedly leads to mutual admiration and love. Haunted by fiery visions of death, James realizes that Deirdre and Nuala are being hunted by the Fey and plunges into a soul-scorching battle with the Queen of the Fey to save their lives.

Ballad is Maggie Stiefvater's follow-up to Lament. And if Lament was amazing then I'm not even sure how to describe Ballad. Out of all five books that I've read, Ballad is my favorite. James and Deirdre have left their homes to live at a school for talented musicians.

James' amazing bagpipe music attracts the attention of Nuala. She is a faery and a muse. While giving inspiration, she also feeds on the creative energies of humans. James' fondness for Deirdre lessens as he becomes more attracted to Nuala.

Nuala has been around for a long time, dying and being reborn. She has often caught the eye of a human, but not until James as the attraction truly gone both ways. Both Dee and Nuala are in danger. Which one will James save? Or can he save them both?

Ballad is my absolute favorite book by Maggie Stiefvater, and the last time I met her, she said this was her favorite as well. (Although, I think that has changed with The Scorpio Races.) There's really nothing I can say to express just how incredible I think it is. And if I tried it would probably come out in an unflattering, fangirly way. I loved James. He was sweet and charming, and I loved reading his romance with Nuala. I liked Nuala from the start, even when I was unsure if she should be trusted.

Both Lament and Ballad were beautifully written, and I can't wait for more faery books from Maggie Stiefvater.

Book Review: Lament

The Faerie Queen's Deception...

Sixteen-year-old Deirdre Monaghan is a painfully shy but prodigiously gifted musician. She's about to find out she's also a cloverhand—one who can see faeries. Deirdre finds herself infatuated with a mysterious boy who enters her ordinary suburban life, seemingly out of thin air. Trouble is, the enigmatic and gorgeous Luke turns out to be a gallowglass—a soulless faerie assassin. An equally hunky—and equally dangerous—dark faerie soldier named Aodhan is also stalking Deirdre. Sworn enemies, Luke and Aodhan each have a deadly assignment from the Faerie Queen. Namely, kill Deirdre before her music captures the attention of the Fae and threatens the Queen's sovereignty. Caught in the crossfire with Deirdre is James, her wisecracking but loyal best friend. Deirdre had been wishing her life weren't so dull, but getting trapped in the middle of a centuries-old faerie war isn't exactly what she had in mind . . .

Lament is a dark faerie fantasy that features authentic Celtic faerie lore, plus cover art and interior illustrations by acclaimed faerie artist Julia Jeffrey.

Maggie Stiefvater's debut, Lament, introduces us to Deirdre Monaghan, an amazingly gifted musician. Her instrument of choice, the harp. The biggest problem Deirdre is facing is her shyness which affects her ability to play in front of others.

Except... well... she only thinks that's her biggest problem. She's a cloverhand. This means that she's gifted with the sight. She can see faeries. Still... that's not her biggest problem. The problem would be the two faery assassins out to get her: Luke, a soulless faery, and the dark faery, Aodhan. Both are ordered to find and kill her. Why? Deirdre's music is starting to attract the attention of the faeries.

I love books about faeries, but I've become quite picky about them. I prefer that they stay true to old faery lore. And this one does, specifically Celtic lore. Maggie's writing is absolutely beautiful. The way she pieces the sentences together is almost lyrical.

Deirdre finds herself drawn to Luke, while her best friend, James, has fallen for Deirdre. Soon she finds herself stuck between both guys. I'm generally not a fan of love triangles. And I've always been able to find a clear frontrunner. But not here. I enjoyed both Luke and James, and I was unsure of who to root for. They were both great.

Her Wolves of Mercy Falls books are very popular. And I've read all three. It's my opinion that the faery books are even more incredible than wolfy ones. So I can only say read them and see for yourselves. Also, if you ever get a chance to meet Maggie at a signing, go!



I met Maggie shortly after Lament's release. This is when it was only available with the grey cover and no one had even heard of Shiver. The signing was in Baltimore, and I was the only one there. A few people stopped by to check out the book, but I was the only one hanging around the table. We talked, she played her harp, and I felt like a creeper. Haha! But she assured me my "stalking" was okay. I've gone to a few signings since, and she is hilarious!

Don't forget to check out her website and her blog. There is some amazing music written and performed by Maggie. And seriously check out her book trailers. She is very multi-talented.

Book Review: Troll Blood

The dramatic and gripping conclusion to Katherine Langrish's highly-acclaimed TROLL trilogy. When seafaring traders, Gunnar, and his sword-wielding son, Harald Silkenhair, land in Trollsvik, looking for crew to join their journey to Vinland (North America), Hilde is desperate to join the ship. She begs her parents to let her go as Gunnar's wife Astrid's companion, and when Peer agrees to go and look after her, her parents reluctantly agree. But Gunnar and Harald are dangerous men. Harald has killed a man, and Gunnar has been cursed and is losing his wits in fear that the dead man's ghost is following him. Harald has an uncontrollable, raging temper, and a perilous rivalry develops between he and Peer. By the time they finally reach the shores of Vinland, the settlement is looking less of an attractive proposition. And that's before they meet the "Skraelings" (the Native American people) and the terrifying Jenu -- the cannibal giant with a heart of ice! Action-packed, suspense-fuelled and with a wonderful cast of characters, Troll Blood is a truly rip-roaring read.

Troll Blood is - sadly - the conclusion of the Troll trilogy by Katherine Langrish. Hilde is offered the chance to sail across the ocean. After much begging and Peer's offer to go with and look after her, her parents agree. And soon they are off, sailing on a Viking ship.

Gunnar and Harald, who lead the crew, are dangerous men. Harald is a killer, and Gunnar is losing his mind, fearing a ghost is after them. And when a rivalry erupts between Harald and Peer, things only continue to grow worse.

This book is even more action-packed than the previous two. That being said, it's my least favorite of the three. That seems to be the odd opinion. I love Peer even more. Both he and Hilde are more grown in this novel. And I rooted for this couple even more. But I can't tell you if Hilde realized how wonderful Peer is or not. You'll have to read it for yourself.

Unfortunately, these books aren't on print in the US currently. So you'll have to either scour used book stores or order the omnibus from the UK. It's titled West of the Moon. Trust me, it's worth the extra shipping charge.

And be sure to check out Katherine Langrish's blog, Seven Miles of Steel Thistles. Her Fairytale Reflections series is fantastic.

Book Review: Troll Mill

Fifteen-year-old Peer Ulfsson is haunted by his past. Forced to live with his evil uncles under the eerie shadows of Troll Fell, he nearly fell prey to their plan to sell children to the trolls. Now Peer lives with his friend Hilde's family, but can he ever truly belong? And will Hilde ever share his deeper feelings?

One rainy night, Peer watches in shock as his neighbor Kersten pushes her baby daughter into his arms and then disappears into the sea. Rumor says that Kersten is a seal woman who has returned to her ocean home, and the millpond witch, Granny Green-teeth, seems intent on taking the "seal baby." Peer also discovers that the mill, abandoned when his uncles joined the troll kingdom, is running again — all on its own?

With angry trolls, mysterious seal people, a mischievous house spirit, and three unusual babies in the mix, Peer and Hilde have their hands full and more! Katherine Langrish returns to the magical world of her acclaimed debut, troll fell, in this second story set in an extraordinary land by the sea filled with Viking legends and lore.

Troll Mill is Katherine Langrish's sequel to Troll Fell. When we last left Peer and Hilde, they had rescued the twins from the horrible trolls. And Peer's uncles became trolls themselves. No surprise. They certainly have the personality for it.

Peer has moved into Hilde's home. While this is the closest thing he's ever had to a family, he's not sure he fits in. His growing attraction to Hilde only goes one way, much to his disappointment.

Kersten, a neighbor, is rumored to be a seal woman. A selchie. And one evening she passes her newborn daughter to Peer before leaping back into the ocean. Granny Greenteeth who lives in the pond at Peer's uncles' mill wants the "seal baby". And the Nis is sure terrible things will happen if the family keeps her.

We return to this world of Viking lore with further adventures of Peer and his would-be love Hilde. I rooted for them even more in this novel. But Hilde just can't see what's right on front of her. Peer went through a complete transformation, no longer a scared and abused little boy. He's more grown and mature, and he wants to be the kind if man girls like Hilde dream of.

I enjoyed Troll Mill even more than Troll Fell. It was faster-paced, as we're already familiar with this world. Characters I fell in love with are back and better than ever. And it left me dying to read Troll Blood, the conclusion to this series.

Book Review: Troll Fell

Legend tells of a secret kingdom... and a horde of gold...

A secret kingdom of trolls, guarding their legendary gold, lies in the mysterious shadows of Troll Fell. It is to this eerie and dangerous place that Peer Ulfsson must go after his father's sudden death, to live with his greedy, bad-tempered uncles, Baldur and Grim.

When Peer discovers his uncles' terrible plan to capture the gold by selling human children to the trolls, he has to bury his fears and find a way to stop them. He has only his bravery, his wit, and two new allies -- a daring girl looking for adventure and a mischievous house spirit looking for a good meal. Their story will become part of the lore of this extraordinary land by the sea.

Troll Fell by Katherine Langrish is the first book in her Troll Trilogy. It is full of wonderful Nordic myth and folklore. The main character, Peer Ulfsson, lives in a mill with his two uncles after his father's death. Grim and Baldur aren't interested in anything except Peer's money and using him as a servant. He's beaten and often left without food. But he makes a friend in Nis, an unpredictable and sometimes ill-tempered house spirit.

Later, he befriends the girl who lives at the farm near Peer. Hilde is a strong and brave young girl who is a wonderful contrast to Peer. She has two younger siblings, twins Sigrid and Sigurd, and the three live with their parents. Also near the farm is Troll Fell. The trolls that live here are cruel, and they've joined in a deal with Peer's uncles. The uncles plan to steal their gold while selling human children. And it's up to Peer and Hilde to rescue her younger siblings and set things right.

This adventure is truly an enjoyable read. The use of Norse folklore creates a wonderful backdrop for Peer's story. Peer is a very sympathetic character. You can't help but take his side. And his interactions with Hilde are fun. You can see a type of romance between these two early on.

I read this book for the first time a few years ago. And it's just as good the second time around. The moment you put it down you'll want to pick up book 2, Troll Mill.

Book Review: The Iron Daughter

Love & Betrayal

A Faery World

Gone Mad

Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron fey—ironbound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her.

Worse, Meghan's own fey powers have been cut off. She's stuck in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can't help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart.

I reluctantly picked up Julie Kagawa's The Iron Daughter last fall. I say reluctantly because I didn't like The Iron King as much as I had hoped I would. Also, I'm very definitely Team Puck. And everyone told me that if I liked Puck, I wouldn't like this book. That it was more for Ash fans.

Well... after finishing the book (after having it on hold for over half a year), I can say I don't exactly agree. This book made me love Puck more and hate Ash more. Which is fine. And when I say I'm Team Puck that doesn't mean I'm rooting for a Puck/Meghan relationship. In fact, Puck deserves better. In my humble opinion, that is. I adore Robin Goodfellow and all his trickery.

My biggest issue with the book is that things fall into place a bit too easily. "If only we had..." "Oh what luck... We do!" Once is fine. Twice I can live with. But a handful of times... it bugs me. Meghan is our heroine, along with her friends Puck, Ash, Grim, and more. And too often things are just handed to her.

That being said, I did enjoy the book. The way the Iron Court was introduced in book one was fascinating, and I'm enjoying learning more about them. I can't wait for book three, The Iron Queen and book four, The Iron Knight. And if you love these, be sure to check out both the Winter's Passage and Summer's Crossing novellas (available in ebook only).

(I feel like book three's title spoiled me way back when I was reading book one.)

Be sure to follow Julie Kagawa on Twitter (she's a funny lady!) and check out her blog. I love the posts with Iron Fey comics.

Book Review: My Soul to Steal

My Soul to Steal by Rachel Vincent is my favorite installment in this series yet! Enter Sabine… Nash’s ex. She shows up just when Kaylee and Nash are left at a rough point after the events in My Soul to Keep. And, yes… she wants Nash back. (My personal opinion… she can have him. I much prefer Tod.)

She’s a mara, a living, breathing nightmare. She feeds on fear and gives the person nightmares. Now teachers are dying in their sleep, only days after a mara shows up. A coincidence? Kaylee thinks not.

I started reading this series after it was recommended by Melissa Marr, who blurbed the cover of the first book. And I’ve loved each book more than the previous one. I can’t wait for If I Die (book five) and Before I Wake (book six). Don’t forget to get your preorders in for those, and be sure to check out “Niederwald”, Rachel’s Soul Screamers short in Enthralled.

Synopsis:

Trying to work things out with Nash — her maybe boyfriend — is hard enough for Kaylee Cavanaugh. She can't just pretend nothing happened. But "complicated" doesn't even begin to describe their relationship when his ex-girlfriend transfers to their school, determined to take Nash back.

See, Sabine isn't just an ordinary girl. She's a mara, the living personification of a nightmare. She can read people's fears—and craft them into nightmares while her victims sleep. Feeding from human fear is how she survives.

And Sabine isn't above scaring Kaylee and the entire school to death to get whatever — and whoever — she wants.

Book Review: Fragile Eternity

Fragile Eternity by Melissa Marr is ranked at the bottom of the Wicked Lovely books, but it is still an amazing installment. I think that really says something about the series and Melissa as an author… when you can still love the one you like the least.

This book goes back to the Summer and Winter Courts and the protagonists from Wicked Lovely. Ash still loves Seth, but is drawn to Keenan. And then there’s Donia who has been in love with Keenan for a long time. The story grows more complex as new obstacles are thrown in the way.

The most exciting thing about this book, though, is the new court. The High Court. Not new as in newly formed, but new to the series. The High Court is run by Sorcha, one of the first faeries, and right now they live in Faerie. So not only do we get to meet new characters, but we get to see an entire new world.

I'm really enjoying re-reading this series! Don’t forget to check out this entire amazing series: Wicked Lovely, Ink Exchange, Fragile Eternity, Radiant Shadows, and Darkest Mercy. And while you’re at it be sure to read the manga trilogy and “Stopping Time” and “Old Habits”, short stories set in the Wicked Lovely world.

US Cover

Synopsis:

Seth wants to be with Aislinn forever. Forever takes on new meaning, though, when your girlfriend is an immortal faery queen.

Keenan stole Aislinn's mortality to make her a monarch. Now she faces challenges and enticements beyond any she'd ever imagined.

In Melissa Marr's third mesmerizing tale of Faerie, Seth and Aislinn struggle to stay true to themselves and to each other in a milieu of shadowy rules and shifting allegiances, where old friends become new enemies and one wrong move could plunge the Earth into chaos.

US  Hardback (under the dustjacket)

Book Review: Ink Exchange

Ink Exchange by Melissa Marr is the second book in the Wicked Lovely series. It’s more of a companion than a sequel. While Aislinn, Keenan, Seth, and other characters from Wicked Lovely are present, they are in the background while the Dark Court steps front stage.

We get to learn a lot about Leslie, who we met in Wicked Lovely. However, we met her through Aislinn’s eyes, so not everything about her is as we thought. She has a painful background, and in this book, her life doesn’t get easier. She is pulled into the world of the faeries, to the Dark Court. The Dark Court is the court of shadows and nightmares, pleasure and pain, where faeries feed on emotion. And the Dark King needs humans to help feed his court.

Leslie feels safe in Pins and Needles, with tattoo artist – and halfling – Rabbit. But using the blood and tears of the Dark Court, Rabbit binds Leslie to the Dark King, changing Leslie’s life forever.

I’ve heard many people say they weren’t going to read this book because the main characters change. Don’t let that stop you from reading it. I loved Wicked Lovely, but I loved Ink Exchange more. I didn’t think that was possible. The story is dark and compelling, amazing and powerful… and possibly my favorite of the five.

US Cover

Synopsis:

Unbeknownst to mortals, a power struggle is unfolding in a world of shadows and danger. After centuries of stability, the balance among the Faery Courts has altered, and Irial, ruler of the Dark Court, is battling to hold his rebellious and newly vulnerable fey together. If he fails, bloodshed and brutality will follow.

Seventeen-year-old Leslie knows nothing of faeries or their intrigues. When she is attracted to an eerily beautiful tattoo of eyes and wings, all she knows is that she has to have it, convinced it is a tangible symbol of changes she desperately craves for her own life.

The tattoo does bring changes—not the kind Leslie has dreamed of, but sinister, compelling changes that are more than symbolic. Those changes will bind Leslie and Irial together, drawing Leslie deeper and deeper into the faery world, unable to resist its allures, and helpless to withstand its perils. . . .

 UK Cover

Book Review: Wicked Lovely

Despite the fact that I’ve already read Darkest Mercy, I’m rereading the entire series to prepare for the release. I just finished rereading Wicked Lovely. This is the third time I’ve read it, and I love it more every time.

One thing that I love about this story is the modern story-telling mixed with centuries old faery lore. I’ve always had an interest in faeries, and I love researching when it comes to folklore. It’s very interesting to me the way Melissa weaves old tales with something new.

In the beginning of the series we meet Aislinn, a mortal with the Sight. She can see faeries, and she was raised to believe they are all dangerous. Keenan, the Summer King wants her for his queen. He normally doesn’t have much of a problem with girls, but Aislinn knows what he is. And she knows to stay away.

Not only is the story-telling amazing, but the characters are interesting and well-developed. I love the descriptions of the faeries… beautiful and terrifying. Faeries (like other supernatural beings) have a different idea of what is right and wrong. Their behavior is fun to watch. Although, if I was Ash, I doubt it would be so fun.

If you need another reason to read this book… a movie is in the works. And you want to read it before you see it, right?

Synopsis:

Rule #3: Don't stare at invisible faeries.

Aislinn has always seen faeries. Powerful and dangerous, they walk hidden in mortal world. Aislinn fears their cruelty—especially if they learn of her Sight—and wishes she were as blind to their presence as other teens.

Rule #2: Don't speak to invisible faeries.

Now faeries are stalking her. One of them, Keenan, who is equal parts terrifying and alluring, is trying to talk to her, asking questions Aislinn is afraid to answer.

Rule #1: Don't ever attract their attention.

But it's too late. Keenan is the Summer King who has sought his queen for nine centuries. Without her, summer itself will perish. He is determined that Aislinn will become the Summer Queen at any cost—regardless of her plans or desires.

Suddenly none of the rules that have kept Aislinn safe are working anymore, and everything is on the line: her freedom; her best friend, Seth; her life; everything.

Faerie intrigue, mortal love, and the clash of ancient rules and modern expectations swirl together in Melissa Marr's stunning 21^st century faery tale.