"Dance With The Devil", by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Only at book four...wow, it is going to be quite a journey.  I say book four, but I also have read two anthologies and a short story online in contribution to my Dark-Hunter excursion.  Oh, and the Dark Hunter Companion book as I go along.   So, now here I am , beginning my journey into another Dark-Hunters past and possible future.  The particular Dark-Hunter would be Zarek. Oh my!!! I thought Talon was a troubled being in his swamp, but the things we might find out here.

 We were introduced to Zarek in "Night Embrace" (book 3), when he was summoned from Alaska where he was living in exile , because he could not behave and follow rules.  He is called to assist in New Orleans with Talon and Acheron as well as the others for Mardi Gras duty, remember?  Well, we learned how crazy he was, but also that there was something more in him, something he did not show, but Acheron could feel ,as not to be able to kill him, eventhough, Artemis wishes it done.  He even trades a whole day as sex slave to Artemis, so he can deal with him and not have her kill him.  Yes, this is all in book 3, so I can only imagine what a whole book dedicated to him will entail.  Well, here I go...

Man, book 4 of the Dark Hunter series got my rating up to five stars. I really enjoyed this one , they seem to "keep getting better".  

First off, as usual, I like to let you guys know about the importance of the reading order of the stories. As you know, I read "Phantom Lover", anthology in the book "Midnight Pleasures" before reading book 4, as it was recommended.  

I do agree that it is a good idea to read the anthology first, as you learn about the Skoti and the Oneroi, the Dream-Hunters, in that story and all they are capable of. These concepts are a big part of the latter part of the book.  

Now, let's talk about the book. This is the story of Zarek of Moesia. Zarek was introduced in book 3 at Mardi Gras in NOLA, as he was called in for reinforcement. He was born a Roman slave, but I will let you read more about that in the book, sad story, these poor Dark-Hunters have in their mortal lives.  

The fate of his life is in balance in the beginning of this book, as he is sure Artemis has ordered his death for his inability to "follow the rules". Of course, he doesn't really give a damn *grin*, so is Zarek. 

He is on his way back to Alaska via helicopter, Acheron is "bound by oath" to spend his two weeks he promised Artemis in her temple in exchange for Talon's soul, I believe, but anyhow, he cannot leave Artemis' temple or he will die. Acheron threatens Artemis to allow Zarek to be "judged" as to whether he is truly a Rogue Dark-Hunter and beyond the capabilities to protect human life , rather than hunted down by Thanatos (her special little project, I will not go into as to not give away spoilers). 

She allows it, and they go speak with Astrid, a justice nymph, whose job is to decide if Dark-Hunters are innocent or guilty. She is the sister to the Fates and daughter of Themis (goddess of Justice). Astrid has never found a Dark-Hunter innocent in all of her judging. Artemis thinks she is one up on Acheron, but Acheron (as usual) has some insight into this situation and hopes his insight will prove him right.  

So, Zarek makes it back to Alaska ,with some excitement and Zarekness I might add. He is battling with the demons inside him, warding off the Blood Rite Squires, Thanatos, and trying to get his his life back together. Poor Zarek.  

After an attempt on his life, he finds himself in a warm bed, in a warm cabin, alongside a beautiful woman , kind of "goddess" like. Hmmm, wonder who this is *grin*. So, Astrid must begin her "judging" and let the games begin. She is made "blind" during her jobs, as to be impartial to her subjects and only has Sasha (a Were-Hunter in disguise , right...) to aid her with mental telepathy and sight if she touches the wolf. Astrid knows which buttons to push with Zarek, to see if he is in fact worthy of life or not.  

Of course Zarek wants to be out of there, but her powers have caused a blizzard to be hanging around, thus he is stuck for a little bit. You know though, this is Zarek and a blizzard won't hold this man. Hence, you will read of the many challenges Astrid is faced with keeping him there so she can judge him fairly.  

In the meantime, you will be introduced to a few new Dark-Hunters in this book, as well as Simi takes a bigger part here. If you read "The Beginning" online, you know a little about Simi already. She stays with Acheron at all times in the form of a tattoo on his body. She can take whatever form of tattoo she chooses and can place herself wherever she wants on his body until Acheron beckons her off. I really like her, she is a fun character, but would barbeque you in a second if you mess with Acheron. 

All in all, you will find out what happens to poor Zarek, and other characters whose lives are on the line here. You get a better bond with little Simi and get to meet some new goddesses, as well as Dark-Hunters, a new Were-Hunter, learn some more about the Dream-Hunters and their capabilities. There is a lot more action and maybe not as many steamy pages as the first three books, but you bet your leather dark hunter britches, there are some here. Enjoy reading this one, and get ready for the next one!! Until next time... "Dying's easy. It's living that's hard."- Zarek

"Midnight Pleasures", "Phantom Lover", by Sherrilyn Kenyon

I am starting the anthology of "Phantom Lover" today in the book "Midnight Pleasures".  I just completed book three of the Dark-Hunter series , and this anthology is recommended next in the sequence.  So, I shall see what shall be introduced here, to prepare me for book four.  I am really enjoying this series and there is a lot going on, always.  No time to get bored here.  As always,  I will be back upon completion and give a review of the story.  Until then...

I have so far only read the story "Phantom Lover" by Sherrilyn Kenyon, so this review will be for that story only.

This anthology was next in my sequence of reading in the Dark-Hunter series. This story introduces the Dream Hunters. 

First a little history here, thanks to the Dark Hunter Companion book. Apparently the dream hunters are also know as Oneroi, and are the cursed children of the Greek gods of sleep (Morpheus, Hypnos, Phobetor, Icelus, Phantasos, and Thanatos). Some of them have human mothers, but most of them are born of the Greek goddess Mist. They all call themselves brothers.

This story is about a Dream Hunter called V'Aidan. I cannot tell you too much about him as not to produce spoilers. Just know that the Dream-Hunters can show and possess not emotions. Not love, hate, fear, ambition, envy or compassion. Zeus cursed them due to a prank that they played on them once. Thus, the Dream hunters live off of the emotions of other persons dreams. Their job is to absorb emotion of the very intense dreams, as to protect the humans. 

However, there are some dream hunters that are called Skoti. These dream hunters get "addicted" if you will to the human emotions in dreams , that they no longer can possess, because of the curse. They will make the dreams into nightmares and fill the dream with so much emotion because of their need for it. They are brethren of the Oneroi, but hunted and punished for their crimes. They are only allowed to visit one humans dreams for short periods , and then must move on. They are attracted to very creative and vivid dreamers, as they get the most emotion from them. If they do not follow the rules, they will be punished or put to death.

We are introduced to Erin (human woman , of course ) who is having a recurring nightmare over and over and unable to sleep and feel as if she is losing her mind. She collapses at work one day, and we are then introduced to the Dream Hunters, both the Skoti and the Oneroi. We then take a ride through her dreams, good and bad to see who is winning in the fight for her saneness. 

As you read on, surprise, Erin and V'Aidan find the cannot live without eachother, but how to do that from dream world to real world and how not to piss of the gods and the fates. You must read on to see how it plays out and what must be done to make this happen. 

It was a good read as to be introduced to another world of the Dark-Hunter series. This world has not come up thus far, but very briefly in passing a few times. Not sure if I am going to need to have read this one before book 4, but as I am following the sequence recommended to me, I did read it first. 

So, now onto book 4. "Have you ever wanted something that you knew was bad for you? Something that you ached for so much that you could think of nothing else?" -Wren

"Night Embrace", Sherrilyn Kenyon

Onward reading soldiers!!! I will start book 3 today of the Dark-Hunter series today.  It looks like this will be Talon of Morrigantes story, which should prove to be quite interesting ,as his character was introduced in "Night Pleasure" , book 2.  He is Celtic and his nature and personality was one that should prove a good story.    As always, I will post back after I have read it for a full review.

So, I just finished book three, the Celtic , Talon of Morrigantes story in the Dark Hunter world. Man the action has sure picked up with each book. Of course the setting remains in New Orleans, and it is Mardi Gras season, so how would the action not be at full force, if you know anything about Mardi Gras in NOLA.  

So, this book lets us into Talon's life and his "story" of his past life as a Celtic warrior and , of course his present life as a Dark-Hunter. We learn of his tortured past as most of the Dark-Hunters seem to have. I guess it must be this way, as why would they need to perform an "act of vengeance" upon their death, if they did not have a tortured past. 

Some insight here, is that Dark-Hunters become such upon their death, when they scream because of the extreme violence taken upon them physically as well as emotionally upon their death, thus the gods are able to hear it. Most of the gods ignore it, but Artemis does not, as she knows this may be an "application" for her army of Dark-Hunters. The person must then trade their soul in order to perform that act of vengeance against those who wronged them upon their moral life/death. They have 24 hours to fulfill that act, then "report for duty" with Acheron, who trains all Dark-Hunters. They will spend the rest of their lives immortal, soul-less, and fighting the daimon attacks against the humans.  

So, yes, Talon has a tortured past and you will learn of it in this book of the series, as well as about his soulmate, Sunshine. We were introduced to Talon in book 2, Night Pleasures , alongside Kyrian, remember? Also, we were introduced to Sunshine in both books briefly. She is the girl that sets up shop on Jackson Square beside Selena, and sells pottery and art. Remember in book one when Julian comes to work with Selena one day and Sunshine sells the sketches of him. Yeah, that is her. You will learn a lot more about her in this book, A LOT.  

There are other Dark-Hunters introduced here as well, that I am sure we will see in the future. They were brought into NOLA, to help with Mardi Gras since this is the time of the year when the Daimons are in full force, because of the amount of people in the area. Zarek and Valerius are two off the top of my head. We learn a secret about them.  

The Sanctuary is explained in this book also. It is a club in NOLA , operated by the Peltier family, and serves as a "safe house" for shifters or hunters. The Peltier family , apparently shifts into bears. As well as this family, we are introduced to the Were-Hunters. Wolf brothers Vane and Fang, are in the area for "certain" reasons (no spoilers) and you will learn a tad of their history and some drama that occurs with them.  

Hmmm, if that was not enough action, we get introduced to Styxx (human, well sort of...), Dionysus (god of wine and excess, also know as Dion or Bachhus, being the god of wine anf excess he would be the leader for Mardi Gras), and Camulus (god of War) who has quite a past with Talon you will learn. Can't say too much about why these three pact together , but you will see as you read, as not to give spoilers. Two of these are related to characters you already know.  

So, we do see some old faces too, Julian, Grace, Kyrian, Amanda, Selena, Nick, Eric, to just name a few. Also, so may new people show up here that the companion book has been very helpful now. I am still reluctant to read much about the characters in the companion book , because it tends to tell more than I want to know at the beginning of reading the next installment, but it helps with the gods and such, as well as the introduction has been helpful with the history of the Dark-Hunters and Artemis.  

Another thing I love about Sherrilyn is her humor and sarcasm. I find myself laughing out loud at some of the passages. One part of this book, Acheron gets the tail of his jacket caught in a closing door, and Nick says, "Don't it take the bad-ass right out of you?", then Acheron uses his telekinesis to open the door and pull is coat out, and Nick says, "And that puts it right back in you." That got a giggle out loud or two from me, as many other parts of these books have done.  

So, if I have not lost you by now, I really liked this third installment in the series. The action has really kicked it up a notch and yes, there are still steamy, steamy pages at times, but with all that testosterone filling the pages, what would you expect a poor girl to do. Don't worry, there is plenty of action in this one to mingle with the sexy steam.  

So on to an anthology next called "Phantom Lover", in the book "Midnight Pleasures". It is listed next in the reading order from the site, so we shall see if it fits in order. I am still wondering why "DragonSwan" was listed as third to read in the order, but I am guessing it will come up soon.  

Until next time... "Nothing is ever truly set by fate. In one blink, everything

changes.", Acheron.

"Night Pleasures", "Dark Hunter Companion" by Sherrilyn Kenyon

I am on to the second "full" book of the Dark Hunter series.  I can see why the list requires to read "The Beginning" online before this one, as "The Beginning" does make you more aware of how the Dark Hunters came to be and some about Acheron.  Still not sure where "Dragonswan" is going to be a prerequisite for this book, but only 1/3 into it as of yet. 

 So, now that I can see there is going to be a lot of terminology and characters coming into this series, I went out today and bought the "Dark Hunter Companion" so I can keep of with the lingo and the characters easier.  I am going to try to read it as I go along and skim parts I have not gotten to, so we will see how that goes.  So far, I think it will be a great resource and is written humorously enough to be enjoyable.  As always, I will post a follow up when I complete my read, Until then...

I finished reading "Night Pleasures" last night. I enjoyed this one one star better than the first book of this Dark Hunter adventure.  

First, let me approach the reading sequence referral. I do recommend you reading "The Beginning" short story online at the following link: http://www.dailyinquisitor.com//hunter/release.htm before reading this book. Some things about Acheron and the Dark Hunter's souls will make a bit more sense if reading the short story first.  

As far as the recommendation to read Dragonswan before this one... the verdict is still out on that one. Not sure that is a necessity at this point, unless I am missing something there. Maybe if only to make you aware that there are different types of "hunters"? Like I said, maybe I missed something there.  

Ok, now let's talk about the book. This is Kyrian's story. Remember Kyrian from "Fantasy Lover"? Kyrian was Julian's only true friend and they fought together against the Romans as Spartans. Julian makes reference in "Fantasy Lover" that he has thought Kyrian dead because of Julian's abandonment to the army, as Julian was always watching Kyrian's back as well as the other way around. 

Well, Kyrian shows up here and he is now a Dark-Hunter. To become a Dark-Hunter, upon death you claim you want vengeance upon someone and Artemis trades your soul and you must work for her fighting the Daimons in order to allow you to perform one last act of vengeance. Of course, you will have to read on to find out how Kyrian became a Dark-Hunter and what his act of vengeance was.  

I found there was a lot more action in this book and a lot more introduction to other "hunter" characters as well as theories that were quite interesting and exciting. I , of course, as to not imply spoilers, will not get into it too much here, but there is some neat stuff out there.  

Also, the setting of these books being in New Orleans , makes it that much better, since I was raised in Louisiana and can relate to many of the things in reference to the area.  

As you know there is always a woman to be found in the books and Amanda is the heroine here. Amanda is Selena's sister from "Fantasy Lover". Remember Grace's best friend , Selena? You will get a peek at Grace and Julian's life also. 

In summation, I really enjoyed this book as it introduced and explained the actual Dark-Hunters and started bringing them to life (well, technically they are not alive, but you know what I mean *grin*), as well as offered some closure for Julian as to his guilt for what happened to Kyrian.  

Yes, there are still hot pages of sex and the torture of it all, but an equal mix of all the action and Dark-Hunter mystique to keep your interest. I am only in the beginning of my Dark-Hunter quest, and expect each book to get better and better. 

I did go invest in the "Dark-Hunter Companion" book yesterday and it has helped with some of the terminology and wordage. I am afraid to read too far into the Companion book , as I don't want to know too much. It gives a wonderful breakdown of the Gods (Julian) and the Dark-Hunters , telling their bios ect. Great stuff, but don't read ahead, you may find out too much. It explains the weapons and what they do, which was good, because I have looked up several of those as well as other words... day surfer?? Yeah, it's in there, and not a good thing.  

So, hope you are convinced to start reading the series. If you are interested in the reading order that was suggested to me to include the order to read the books as well as the anthologies and short stories, just send me a note and I will be glad to share. Until next time... “I think of life as a good book. The further you get into it, the more it begins to make sense.”

"Dragonswan", by Sherrilyn Kenyon

As I continue my journey through the Dark Hunter Series, I read the anthology "Dragonswan" thirdly in my list.  Before this story, it was suggested to read "The Beginning", which is only readable online.  "The Beginning" is a story about Acheron, the Daimon hunter and Artemis, a creator of Dark Hunters, who apparently will fight the Daimon alongside Acheron, much to his dismay.  I am not sure why this is the second story recommended to read on Sherrilyn's site, but I did it, as the third suggested read is "Dragonswan", not about Acheron at all.

It seems "Dragonswan" is an introduction to Sebastian, a dragon slayer and his "mate", Channon (his dragonswan). More steamy stuff happening here, but in this story , we are introduced to the world of Dragons, and Dragon slayers, as well as the evil Katagaria all taking place in Saxon England. Well, most of it , I guess. There is some time travel allowed at the dawn of a full moon, and things of that sort, of course. How else to get a modern bride...errr "mate".

We get some history about Sebastian's life here, as well as how he and Channon, come to be, but I am guessing, there will be a bigger story ahead in the Dark Hunter books ,as this seems quite like an introduction.

"Fantasy Lover", Sherrilyn Kenyon

I am finally ready to "do this thing".  I have been purchasing some of the books from the Dark Hunter series over the past few weeks,and think I have about 11 or so now.  There are like 18 books, 5 anthologies, 5 or 6 additional stories online, and a new book due out in August.  It is insane the amount of stuff out there about these Dark Hunters.  So... I am taking the challenge and diving into this world to see what it is all about.  The first book is "Fantasy Lover" and I will start reading it today.  So, as usual, I will post back here to let you know what I thought.  Chances are , with something this big, I will not be disappointed...

 Soooo, I finished "Fantasy Lover" last night at work. Wow...some steam was rising off of those pages right before my eyes. What would you expect from a book called "Fantasy Lover", eh?  However, in addition to the great sex scenes , there was a look into Greek mythology and Roman Spartan times that was educational at times.  It was cushioned by great descriptions of one Spartan general's body many different times, over and over, but hey, who is complaining?  

So, down to the what is it all about?  As I said before, this is the first book of the Dark Hunter series.  There is no mention of the work dark hunter in this first book, but am guessing it will tie into it later.  The idea here is that Aphrodite gifts a Spartan warrior a moment in her well...yeah...in return for him having saved her temple, thus the birth of a son, Julian.  He is considered a bastard son and basically hated by his brothers and loved by very few, despite is Greed God appearance.  Thus, he is cast out at age 7 to be trained and live the life of a Spartan's son in training, which if you ever saw 300, you get the idea of what that was like.

Along the way, he becomes cursed by one of the Greek Gods (his brother no doubt) for reasons I will not *spoil* and he is to be placed inside of a scroll (that over time becomes a book) and to be the "love slave" to whomever summons him.  He is to remain with that particular summoner from one full moon to the next (about a month) before he automatically returns to be book to stay until the next person summons him.  The catch is, he is only there to serve the person's "desires" and none of his own.  The attraction to him by his summoner would only by physical and he could never be loved.

Well... he is placed in the book in like 149 b.c. or something like that. It is the year 2004, and a Grace , living in New Orleans, practicing as a psychiatrist, is given a birthday gift by her eccentric Tarot card reading friend who has come across the book.  Guess what the gift is?  Yeah, Grace does not believe in any of her friend Selena's mumbo jumbo, but goes along with it, as she has had too much wine and , hey , it's her birthday , right?  

You can probably see where this is going.  So, the rest of the book, you will discover much about Julians haunted past as well as Grace's and their battles within eachother.  Even though , it seems like a bunch of steamy romance stuff, it really does give you a great peak into Greek mythology and Roman times, with some humorous takes on things.  

Well, one book down and many to go in the Dark Hunter world.  It will be interesting to see how, or if any of these books tie together.

Until next time...“Beware the person of one book”

"Once Dead Twice Shy", Kim Harrison

I started the new young adult book today that Kim Harrison just released.  This is Madison's story that was started in "Prom Nights From Hell".  Funny thing is ,that story of Madison was my favorite compilation of the book. To find out that it was actually an anthology to something bigger to come, was most exciting.  So, of course , I re-read the story in "Prom Nights from Hell', to recap on what started this all for Madison and then started "Once Dead Twice Shy".  I am excited to see what is up next for Madison, now that is is dead...well sort of dead, if that is possible... As usual, I will post back a review when I finish.  Until then, You know you've read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend.

Finished reading "Once Dead, Twice Shy" last night.  I really enjoyed Madison's story.  There is some very interesting stuff in there in regards to white reapers, black reapers, and time keepers. White meaning "good" (supposedly) and black meaning "bad" (supposedly).  I say supposedly , because once you read the story, you might form a different opinion.  The consensus is that white reapers attempt to protect people from dying before their time and black reapers take them before their time to prevent them from doing something horrible in the future that they were destined to do.  Hence the seraphs, that can see into the future to figure that out. 

The reapers and timekeepers carry amulets that turn into sheats and reflect the same color as your aura, cool.  The story centers around Madison dealing with the fact that she is in fact, dead, and the only thing keeping her in a solid form is the amulet she stole from her killer.   She is assigned to a white reaper/ angel, named Barnabas by the white time keeper Ron. Ron wants Barnabas to watch over Madison and teach her to use her amulet and protect her until they can figure things out.  Well, as the story goes on, many secrets are uncovered that will surprise you and Madison finds herself in the midst of trouble many times.  She has a lot of spunk and does well with trouble , you will see.  

The characters are some you will come to really like as people.  Of course there is Madison, and Barnabas, as well as Josh, and Nakita.  There are also some characters you will learn to hate, ummm say, Amy.  This was Kim Harrison's first full length young adult book , and well, I think she did a wonderful job with it.  I enjoyed it and say , Read it!!

"I find television very educating. Every time somebody turns on the set, I go into the other room and read a book.”

Club Dead, Charlaine Harris

Today I will start re-reading"Club Dead".  I think this will have me set for the rest of season 2 of True Blood.  It has been good too, to go back and read about Sookie in the beginning. She has changed a lot as the series has developed.  Also, to read about her first true love with Bill thus far unscathed and unpolluted had been a good thing for me.  So, I will post a review of "Club Dead" when I finish.  Until then...

All done now...The southern vampire series always gets five stars from me because of my southern heritage and my love for this story line. I know some people think Sookie is a pain and simple minded, but I think the girl has guts and tries to be the southern woman Gran was out to make her.  

This is the third book of the series and a re-read for me, as I have already read the whole series. However, I wanted to re-read books 1-3 to prepare for season 2 of True Blood, and I have done it.  

In this third book, poor Sookie takes a lot of heat and beat, if you ask me. Poor thing is getting pounded on until the very end of the book. How much can a girl take? Bill pulls an Edward in this book and "has to leave", which makes Sookie wonder where she stands in the "girlfriend" category. Eric is making big moves here.  

I think this book is where he really starts finding he has more than just a sexual attraction for Sookie. Charlaine throws in another suitor to bide for Sookie's undying (no pun intended Bill) love, and he is a "supe" of a another color. Hey, Bill needs some competition.  

As if Sookie did not have enough problems, this book introduces Debbie Pelt, who shows up a lot in the future books. This supe woman is just plain TROUBLE.  

I really liked the introduction of some new characters here and Sookie taking charge in the end, trying to get control of her life again. However, I think the beatings she took to get there, could have been a few less. She starts to change in this book. Her character is becoming more aware of the ways of the world outside of Ben Temp, and she is not sure she likes it. Book three takes her to Jackson, MS and book two took her to Dallas, TX. She is getting to go places with these vamps, eh?

"Living Dead in Dallas", Charlaine Harris

I am well into the re-read of my second book of the Southern Vampire series. .  I watched True Blood season 2 premiere last night and well,  it was really good.  As in season one, the series strays from the book right away.  Yeah, the dead person in Andy's car, won't say as not to be a "spoiler", but it won't be who you think it is from reading the books.

 

So, I just wanted to update where I was in my re-read and how episode one went of season 2 of True Blood.  I will read through this one and book 3, then move onto another series (to be announced).  It is a series of 22 books, so it will keep me busy through the summer I am sure.

 

I will post review soon on "Living Dead in Dallas" and then be on to "Club Dead".  For those of you following True Blood, now we have Sundays to look forward to!!!

 

 

I completed my re-read of book 2 of the Southern vampire series today pool side. As I read, I was comparing episode one of True Blood, season two,  to see where HBO is veering off into their own renditions. Now, I think they are acceptable renditions, but just keeping check on it.


 

Well, Sookie still has a lot of her naiveness and willingness to help all species , regardless of their nature to some degree. She is still madly in love with Bill, but Eric starts making his move here. Sookie continues to wonder if she can handle all things "vampire" and struggles with that more in book 2. 



 

Her powers take them to Dallas as a loaner from Eric to some big wig vamps in Dallas for her "special talent". She is not happy about that, but know she must do it , as she made a promise to Eric, and we southern girls know what promises mean. Her gran would be proud. 


 



Sookie meets several violent situations in book 2, after just recovering from the wrath of Rene in book one. Right off the top of my head, I can think of 3 for sure, but as to try to keep spoilers out of my reviews, I will leave out the details. As par for Sookie, she takes her hits and knows a healthy girl from the south will be just fine... of course a little vampire blood never hurts either.”

 

Dead Until Dark, Charlaine Harris

So, just wanted to update everyone on what I am currently reading.  This will be a re-read for me, as I have read all of the Southern Vampire series before, at least once.  However, in preparing for season 2 of True Blood, the HBO series based off of this series of books, I felt like I needed to revamp at least the first three books of the series.  Like any avid reader, we must all compare what parts of the books the producers and writers chose to leave "on the big screen".   

If you are a True Blood follower, you already know how season one went alongside book one, yeah, well,  it is HBO, right?  So, in preparation for season 2, I will be doing a re-read, but plan to blog about these 3 books as I finish them this second time around.  The first book is "Dead Until Dark", the second book is "Living Dead in Dallas" and the third book is "Club Dead".  So, stay tuned...

xo Val

June 14th... (updated) Well, season 2 of True Blood starts tonight, and I have finished reading Dead Until Dark and am well into "Living Dead in Dallas" in preparation for this next season of the show.  As I stated above, these are re-reads for me, as I read the Southern Vampire series, before ever watching season one of True Blood.  

That being said, after reading this first book, and knowing what I know of the other books, my review may be a little unfair.  Of course, it is still a favorite of mine, but the wholesomeness of Sookie and the true "southern" naive girl I can relate to, stand out in this book.  Going back and reading about how her association with the supernatural world starts and knowing where it will evolve to, it was a good thing to read this story again , fresh from the beginning.

So, if you have not read this series, get started.  This first book is the start if it all, and shows Sookie at the beginning of her world with the supes, and the freshness of "how it all began".

"Dates From Hell", a compilation of short stories

Back from my cruise and finished the book "Dates from Hell" upon the Veranda deck.   This book is another compilation of short stories by some popular authors.  The authors include Kim Harrison, Lynsay Sands, Kelley Armstrong, and Lori Handeland.  

I purchased this book mainly for the story by Kim Harrison about Ivy and Art. As you know, Kim Harrison is one of my favorite authors.  The story in this book about Ivy is from her early days in the I.S. under the authority of her boss Art and her trials and tribulations with her job there.  It is a great inside look to the Ivy's early days pre-Rachel.  It provides a little more understanding to how torn Ivy is with her past.  I would recommend any one following the Hollows series to pick this one up.

Lynsay Sands has a story called "The Claire Switch Project" , which is a neat little story that is ends in a sort of "wrapped up with a bow on the top" sort of way.  A good little read though, with a different approach in the "paranormal". I liked it.

The story called "Chaotic", by Kelley Armstrong was one that I found very intriguing.  It follows a heroine by the name of Hope, who is demon who feeds off of chaos and find herself involved in a situation she did not expect to be in alongside a werewolf.  This is the first thing I have read by Kelley and plan to look up some of her other work. I am not sure if this story about Hope is an anthology from another series or not, but it seems like it could be.  I will look Kelley up, this story peaked my interest.  

The last story in the book, was called "Dead Man Dating", by Lori Handeland.  This story also was a good read. I probably found this one my second favorite besides the one by Kim Harrison, of course.  I found the heroine in this story to be someone I could relate with more , and found I wanted to know more about her and what the outcome was.  Kit and Chavez are the main characters in this story, and you will be hooked on wanting their story to go on and on.  Again, this is the first thing I have read by Lori , and am not sure if it is an anthology of another series involving Kit or Chavez.  It could be a much bigger story and I will be looking this author up also.  Great story with a somewhat happy ending, but there could be a future there.  

So, all in all, I would recommend getting this one for the Ivy story for sure, as well as some added bonuses of other authors that may intrigue you.

Until next time , remember..."You cannot open a book without learning something."

xo Val

"Bite", compilation of short stories

I have just finished reading the book "Bite".  This book is a compilation of several stories by several authors. I picked it up because of the anthology by Charlaine Harris on her Southern Vampire Series.  I am always looking for more about my Bon Temp family.  The story by Charlaine was good. It gives us some insight to how Sookie was notified of her cousin Hadley's death and what occurred within announcement.  I did like the story, as I am a fan of the Southern Vampire series and anything more about the story line is always welcomed for me.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the story about Anita Blake, vampire executioner.  Apparently, this short story is an anthology also, that occurs between two of Laurell Hamilton's books in the series featuring Anita Blake. I have not read this series, but after reading the anthology, I intend to, as it was well written and peaked my interest. 

As for the other stories in the book, none appealed to me much. The others were way to close to some Harlequinn romance book (which I do not care for) and did not flow well, and kinda cheesy.

The last story in the book , written by Vickie Taylor, was pretty good. I do not know if this is an anthology or if she has other works out there related, but it was a good story.  It was called Blood Lust, and flowed well, without too much of the way too steamy sex stuff.

So, if you like Charlaine Harris and follow along in Sookie's world, I would pick it up for that. As well, as if you follow Anita Blake's world, you could get some insight here as well. I will be reading that one I am sure, thanks to the teaser in "Bite".  

Until next time... “A book has but one vioce, but it does not instruct everyone alike.”

The Hollows Series by Kim Harrison

I have read the complete series of these books written by Kim Harrison.  They are referred to as "The Hollow Series".  There are seven books in all , and she continues to write more to the series, with the next one due out in the spring of 2010.  

I must say that I am in love with this series.  The characters portrayed here are some of the best. The consensus is that it is present time and the supernatural are among the population, and basically "have come out of the closet" about 30 or so years ago.  It was due to a virus implanted in tomatoes, that killed off a large population of "mortal humans" , but did not effect the supernatural world.  Thus, the revelation as to why they were not dying.  

There are two forces of law enforcement, one for the supernatural criminals, and one for the humans.  However, you will see how often these two will collide as you read through The Hollow worlds.  Several of the main characters have broken away from these agencies to form their own investigative company. 

Thus, you have three wonderful main characters, you will fall in love with , over and over. Rachel (bounty hunter "kick-ass" witch), Ivy (living vamp, you will read of the differences of living and dead vamps, one has a soul, one does not), and Jenks (pixie who is the funniest 4 inch character you could imagine, I swear by Tink's panties).

Like, I said. There is no doubt you will love these books. I will post a picture of the first book in the series in this blog, but remember , there are seven books in all. Kim Harrison has a website you can go to and see the order of the book. She is very devoted to her fans as you will see at the site.  I will put the link below.  Once you read the first one, you will be hooked. As always, enjoy.  Now go read!!   

http://www.kimharrison.net/

Mortal Instrument Series by Cassandra Clare

 Cassandra Clare does and amazing job in this trilogy.  There are three books in the trilogy (hence the word trilogy, eh?).  The first book is called "City of Bones", next is "City of Ashes", then "City of Glass".   I have been hearing praises about them for several months now, but was just recently  in a place where I could lose myself in them.

I ventured into this journey due to my love for a good supernatural adventure.   These books will give that to you.  There is a great mix of the demons,  vamps, weres, fae,  and warlocks.

 Also, a new supernatural mix is presented here, the Shadowhunters.  The Shadowhunters are kick butt, and their history is rather complex and interesting to me... the "mundane" (those of you who have read them, will get that).  So, with the shadowhunters, you will be introduced to the world of "angels".

Cassandra gives us so many great characters to relate to and build a bond with, it is hard to choose just one or two that I will miss.   Some of my faves are Jace, Simon, Alec, Luke, Clary, and Mangus Bane.    These stories take place in New York City as well as many other areas specific to the Shadowhunter history.  

I will read these books again, as I am sure I will notice all new things the second time around, as there is so much description and history to remember and learn of the characters.  The Moral Instrument series will be on my favorite list.  Hope you give them a try, you will not be disappointed.

"If one cannot enjoy reading a book over and over again, there is no use in reading it at all."

Just finished the latest book by Charlaine Harris, "Dead And Gone". If you have been following her Southern Vampire series, you would know that this book was just released this month. It is the ninth book in this series.

 I have some mixed feelings about this latest addition to the series though. First, I think Sookie was less fearless in this book. It seems to me in the other books she had more spirit and fight in her. She seemed a bit more dependent in here.

 Also, there seemed to be some things that just popped into the book, but went nowhere. I mean really, why make one of the favored characters (not Crystal) pregnant and then just kill her off in the end. What was the point in bringing in the short conversation with Hunter's dad, just to have that mean nothing in the end? Good things to come along in the book, yes. Thanks Charlaine for Eric (my favorite VikingVamp) and Sookie ummm, "reconnecting". However, I always feel bad for Bill in his struggle for Sookie's love.

 I am sure at some point, Charlaine will have to make Sookie choose for good, or get rid of either Eric or Bill, but where would be the fun in that, right?  In my opinion, and after a lot of thought, I am convinced Charlaine is using this book as a bridge to future books. I think she is changing Sookie for the future development of Bon Temp and the things that are to come in the books.  So, I guess in my opinion , change is a comin', so hold on Bon Temp.

Well, thanks Charlaine for another look into the world of Sookie, Eric, and Bill. Even though I have some mixed feelings, I will be one of the first persons waiting on book 10. Keep them coming.