I picked up the first book in this series because a later installment features a woman in a wheelchair on the cover, and I am all about supporting representation in books. The fact that this book has two characters of color on the cover, which is a rarity for a romance novel by a major publisher not shuffled off to some “ethnic” imprint, sealed the deal for my interest in supporting this series. And I’m so glad that I did, because I ADORED this book. Continue reading
Review: Maelstrom (Whyborne & Griffin #7) by Jordan L. Hawk
Family has been a running theme in this series, and things come to a head in this installment of the Whyborne & Griffin books. Whyborne’s father has had a major shift in attitude, which causes Whyborne to be suspicious of the man’s motives.
In the grander scheme of things, Whyborne’s own position in the town of Widdershins appears to be changing, which affects the external plot of this book. As usual, magic and creepy cults play a role, but the twists at the end are particularly enjoyable since the story occurs so close to home. Continue reading
Review: Babylon’s Ashes (The Expanse #6) by James S.A. Corey
We’ve reached the point in this series where it’s okay for the authors to throw a bunch of points of view at the reader. By now, the world-building is solid and the political landscape is pretty clear. The downside to this is that the only POVs I really want are Holden, Naomi, and the others from the Rocinante. However, this method also allows us to peek in on some old friends in such a way that gives us a perspective of what’s going on across the system. Continue reading
Review: Any Old Diamonds (Lilywhite Boys #1) by K.J. Charles
K.J. Charles has officially become one of “those authors,” in which I purchase the book on release day and stay up way too late finishing it on a work night. And I have zero regrets about it.
This particular book references the concept of the Victorian-era melodrama multiple times. Then, it drags the reader along through its own surprising plot twists and shocking confessions. Entertaining enough on its own, but there’s also plenty of romance and sexiness thrown in for good measure. I enjoyed every moment of it. Continue reading
Review: Elle by Night (Dommes by Night #2) by Rachell Nichole
Disclaimer: The author is a friend of mine; however, I purchased this ebook for full price.
The premise of this book immediately hooked me. Two dominants sparring with each other, even by telephone? Yes, please. However, Jo and Spencer immediately proved themselves to be amazing and three-dimensional characters. That 3D part is key in a sub-genre not always known for its subtlety. Continue reading
Review: Hoarfrost (Whyborne & Griffin #6) by Jordan L. Hawk
Something different about this book is immediate from the first page — scenes from Griffin’s point of view! This made me nervous at first, but Hawk obviously has a great handle on his character. Switching between two first-person POVs is never difficult, because Griffin’s voice is so distinctive from Whyborne’s.
The need for scenes to be from Griffin’s perspective is not just a change of pace on the writer’s part. His viewpoint is necessary for the plot and conflicts to have the full impact on the reader. Continue reading
Review: The Warlord Wants Forever (Immortals After Dark #1) by Kresley Cole
I started this series on the recommendation of a friend who is a romance author, and I devoured this sexy novella in a single evening. I had certain preconceptions about the two main characters based on the back-cover text, which were smashed immediately.
The heroine Myst, especially, was not what I expected at all. The intricate world-building enhances the complexity of her character, and I look forward to learning about the magical elements of this paranormal romance world. Also, she’s hilarious, which will always make me favor a character. Continue reading
