Ilithyia's 2007 booklist (she needs a life!)

Finally I got around to reviewing these books. Sorry I don't put a lot in about the actual plot or anything, just whether or not I liked, it with a few comments.

1. Terrier - Tamora Pierce
My least favorite of the Tortall books. I hope that it gets better. In a funny way, Pierce is giving this book more length but less substance (in my mind). I'm not even sure what I don't like about it, or if I'm just disappointed it doesn't have Alanna, Jon, Kel, Daine, Numair (especially), and the whole crowd that we've come to know and love in it.

2. Innocent in Death - J.D. Robb
Wonderful, as they all are! I firmly recommend the entire series -start with Naked in Death

And I want one of those "I Dream of Roarke" tv shirts you can buy on her website!

3. The Dream Hunter - Sherrilyn Kenyon
One of my all time favorite authors, and she delivers again! Great to finally see more about the Dream-Hunters, and Arik was a hot character....doesn't really progress the Dark-Hunter plotline, but is a great diversion!

4. Love, Rosie - Cecelia Ahern
Great book, read in less than 24 hours. I was getting a little frustrated by the end at the stupity of the characters' misunderstandings....but that's what makes it so good! Highly recommended, especially if you've ever been in love with your best friend - though a little depressing, because they have to go through so much.

5. Sleeping with the Fishes - Mary Janice Davidson
Very cute...not the world's best or most complex plot, but I look forward to a sequel

6. Kingdom of the Grail - Judith Tarr
This was a reread that I enjoyed very much. As can be seen from the title it is another Legend of the Holy Grail, but one that takes place many years after the fall of Camelot. Merlin has very small supporting role but his apprentice - and descendent - Roland is an amazing character. The book is very well done, I enjoyed it greatly, as is everything by Judith Tarr.

7. Fairest - Gail Carson Levine
The was a great children's book, a kind of sequel to Ella Enchanted about the land of Ayortha.

8. The Two Princesses of Bamarre - Gail Carson Levine
I really like Levine, she has a great sense of storytelling. I would recommend anything by her. I hope one day she'll write an adult novel - I'd be interested in what she would create.

9. Ella Enchanted - Gail Carson Levine
Another book in the Levine fairytale world and I believe her first. This was a great reincarnation of Cinderella! I read this one because I loved the movie with Hugh Dancy (he's so hot) and Anne Hathaway. The book is completely different from the movie, but in a good way. I don't think the book wouldn't have made a good movie and the movie wouldn't have made a good book, but on their own they were both great.

10. The Mask of Atreus - A.J. Hartley
I have to say I didn't like this book. Not that it was bad, but I felt misled. I bought it because it was supposed to be a mystery about Ancient Greek archeology and it ended up being about something I didn't have much interest in. (Don't want to spoil it for others.) I understand that they would have ruined the plot twist if they has advertised that on the backcover, but I still didn't like it.

11. The Decoy Princess - Dawn Cook

12. Princess at Sea - Dawn Cook
These two books by Cook, I really liked. Great concept about a girl who was raised to believe she was a Princess, but then just when she was meeting the Prince she was supposed to marry she found out that she wasn't the Princess at all, she was just a decoy for assassins. But trained almost as an assassin herself she definitely gives the bad guys a run for their money.

The sequel is even better, and expands the plot and depth of the world that Tess lives in. She discovers love and loss, etc. But on Cook's website she says right now she doesn't plan on writing anymore books in this series. NOO! I don't understand why. She left threads hanging, relationships undeveloped, and there is no tell how much trouble Tess will get into in the future - and I want to hear about it! *sniff*

13. Real Women Don't Wear Size 2 - Kelley St. John
Cute romance novel about not being ashamed of how you look and that there is someone out there who will love you for who you are. Also quite funny!

14. Dark Side of the Moon - Sherrilyn Kenyon
This was a reread. I love these Dark-Hunter books. Kenyon has done a fantastic job building up this series with reoccuring characters, great love stories, good vs. evil, and I will always keep coming back for more! It's really amusing too that Susan is allergic to Ravyn ;-p

15. Touch of the Wolf - Susan Krinard
16. Once a Wolf - Susan Krinard
17. Secret of the Wolf - Susan Krinard
These three Krinard books are about a family of werewolves, two brothers and a sister. They are well-done and I recommend them to anyone who likes paranormal romances and they have a good historical aspect as well. But despite some good plot twists, they are still run-of-the-supernatural-mill.

18. Love at First Bite - Sherrilyn Kenyon
Anthology

19. Heart of the Dragon - Gena Showalter
I like Gena Showalter and this Atlantis book was good. I would recommend it, but it's not earth-shattering. (It's not Kenyon).

20. Sebastian - Anne Bishop
Fabulous book! Highly recommended. Bishop creates an entire world about where you belong depending on your heart's desires. It was a fantastic good vs. evil story infused with insight in the human heart/nature. This will definitely be on my favorite book list for years to come.

Also I see that a lot of people lately are reading Elantris, if you liked it, you'll like this as well.

21. Seduced by Magic - Cheyenne McCray
Steamy and riské sex scenes and a great good vs. evil story - sequel to Forbidden Magic
This is a romance novel for those any who don't mind kinky sex scenes. Although it has a great storyline and plot besides, not recommended for the prudish (don't mean to offend anyone!) or those who only like sweet romantic make love scences.

But besides that, I really look forward to another book in this series. Darkwolf is an intriguing bad guy - especially knowing he used to be a White Witch. I'm wondering if they'll have to destroy him or if he'll "see the light" and turn back to the good side (that sounds so Star Wars, doesn't it?)

Maybe the next book will actually be his romance novel, and he'll fall in love with some good person, etc. *shrug* who knows!

22. Belladonna - Anne Bishop
Wonderful sequel to Sebastian! This was fabulous fantasy series, very thought provoking insights into the human conditions. I highly recommend it to everyone. Definitely not your garden variety cookie cutter story. I will love this story forever.

23. American Gods - Neil Gaiman
Not my usual style, but I read it on recommendation and enjoyed it very much. I will read the sequel and probably others by this author.

I was intrigued though because I've always been a huge mythology buff. But there wasn't as much of it as I had hoped. It's a very modern story, with little snippets of people's past and their relationships with their gods. And you definitely have to give it a chance, the first 50 pages are mostly getting Shadow to actually come into the story. But it's all important and tied in together!

24. Storm Front - Jim Butcher
Book one of the Dresden Files
Funny I read this one right before I saw the episode on SciFi that was based on it. The book has more depth, but Paul Blackthorne is cuter than the Harry described in the book ;-p

It's been a while since I picked it up, but I couldn't stand American Gods. It struck me as a long-winded, unfunny ripoff of The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul that tried far too hard. (Mind you, I only got about 50 pages in before I gave up in irritation.)

The only other print fiction I've read by Neil Gaiman is Good Omens, which is very good, but it was co-written with Terry Pratchett, and I don't know how much of which went into it.

Overall, I've preferred Gaiman's comics (e.g., The Sandman and Marvel 1602).

That said, I did pick up a copy of Neverwhere from a library book sale for half
a dollar a few months ago, so I guess I'm still willing to give his fiction a chance.

25. Wicked, The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West - Gregory MacGuire
She was just misunderstood!

I admit that I found it hard to make my way through this book. I really feel that if it wasn't the Wizard of Oz, through the eyes of the Witch, it wouldn't have been that popular of a book. As a fantasy story, it's just kind of so-so.

Personally I like the musical better.

26. Something from the Nightside - Simon R. Green

This is an entertaining and very easy to read series. The books are short, but the concept is something new and interesting.

Green definitely comes up with some funny scenes, catching dialogue, and mysterious characters. Oh, and I really want to know who John Taylor's mom is?! But don't tell me ;-p

And so I start my stint of Young Adult books...got to keep up with the new generation! Sometimes I think the best books are written for children, to help stimulate their more active imaginations.

27. Ascension - Kara Dalkey

28. Reunion - Kara Dalkey

29. Transformation - Kara Dalkey

These were good. Mermaids, Atlantis, Britain, and an interesting concept about a race aliens that are like giant squids but very advanced and benevolent - in the end it ties in with the legend of King Arthur in an interesting way. I enjoyed it, though probably won't read them again.

30. Stardust - Neil Gaiman

A story about a boy who goes out to find a fallen star for the girl he loves and discovers that the star is an actual person, and his adventures therein. Entertaining, but again not earth-shattering.

Apparently they have made a movie of this book, that is coming out this fall. It has some big names in it - Claire Danes, as the star, Michelle Pfifer, as the evil witch, and Robert Deniro, as the crazy gay pirate. Should be interesting.

Update: I finally saw the movie, and was quite impressed. I would have to reread the book, to be sure, but I know that added a few things and took out a few things - but overall I thought the movie was very well done. The visual effects were well done, the dialogue was witty, the characterizations were pretty good, and the guy definitely got cute towards the end ;-p
All in all, I give it two thumbs up and bought myself a copy.

31. The Lightning Thief - Rick Riordan

32. Sea of Monsters - Rick Riordan

Fantastic YA books! These would be a great way to get kids interested in mythology. Percy Jackson finds out that his father is the greek god Poseidon, and that there are other kids out there like him - demigods or halfbloods.

This series has some fun adventures and interesting plots - I love the concept. I can't wait to keep reading!

33. Agents of Light and Darkness - Simon R. Green

These are amazing books, short and easy to read, with the most unusual ideas.

This book is about the search for the Unholy Grail, the cup that Judas drank from at the Last Supper. Definitely a new idea. John Taylor must find it and then decide who should have control over it.

34. Faerie Wars - Herbie Brennan

I love the Faerie Wars books. They take the basic and much used plotline, normal boy ends up in fairyland concept, to a whole new level.

How did you like Faerie Wars? I thought it was fantastic; I read it about a month ago and it actually renewed my love for fantasy novels!

35. Purple Emperor - Herbie Brennan

I thought Faerie Wars was quite good too. I've now finished the second one, and have the third to read as well.

Can't say I ever lost my love for fantasy novels, but I am so impressed with this new generation of young adult ones. They really have a lot of depth and personality!

36. The Last Dragon - Silvana de Mari
Wasn't terribly impressed....okay storyline, but not great.

37. Ruler of the Realm - Herbie Brennan

Quite enjoyed this one as well. Looking forward to The Faerie Lord (book 4 coming out in September)!

38. The Hunter's Moon - O.R. Melling

Two cousins are backpacking around Ireland until they make the mistake of sleeping inside a fairy mound. When Findabhair is kidnapped by the King of the Faeries, Gwen goes to great lengths to rescue her cousin - finding help and love along the way. But the ending is a great surprise.

I really enjoyed this YA novel, and I look forward to the sequels.

39. The Saint of Dragons - Jason Hightman

Good book. A boy finds out that he's from an ancient family of dragonslayers, the descendants of Saint George.

The dragons have evolved to the point where they can blend into human society, but have retained their evil natures, their love of fire, and their taste for humans.

I liked it. Now I have to track down the sequel.

40. The Titan's Curse - Rick Riordan

41. Fool Moon - Jim Butcher
I loved the TV series first...Paul Blackthorne makes a great Harry and I love Terrance Mann (great singing voice, btw) as Bob!! But I'm finding that I really enjoy the books as well. I find that the adaption for the tv series is done well, tweaking things to make it more hip and not so complex - fun to watch and highly entertaining - and the book has the depth of background (that may one day be developed in the show).

Their both great on their own, but together they are fabulous!!

I highly recommend them both ;-p

42. Wolf Tower - Tanith Lee

Wow, I loved American Gods - just fell straight into it and I don't read much fantasy/sci-fi/speculative fiction. I didn't get any Adams vibe from it at all.

I think you might like Neverwhere a little more (also, it's less of a horse choker in size).

43. Wolf Star - Tanith Lee
44. Wolf Queen - Tanith Lee
45. Wolf Wing - Tanith Lee

To be completely honest....I didn't like these books. The author created a semi-interesting fantasy world (though nothing incredible), but only a very mediocre and vague plot. I continued to read hoping they would get better, but even the end was very anticlimatic (not that there was much buildup).
The books were written in journal form, not that is bad, but there was more random thoughts, about the environment, of the main character than any kind of plot advancement.

I'm ashamed to admit I skimmed through the last two and a half books, just to get through them. Wouldn't recommend anyone else even putting in that much effort.

46. Broken - Kelley Armstrong

Another werewolf tale (pun intended)! Elena Michaels has finally accepted her mate and her place as the only female werewolf in the world. Now, she is struggling to accepted her role as a mother-to-be. Elena and her mate Clay, along with Clay’s adopted father and Alpha of the pack, Jeremy have to tread carefully on this uncharted terrain as there has never been a pregnant werewolf before - werewolves that are born are always males from human mothers - until now.

But that doesn’t keep them out of trouble, when they agree to steal the From Hell letter, supposedly written by Jack the Ripper, but rumored in the supernatural community to be more than that, a quest for immortality gone wrong - or right. Soon they are battling zombies, plagues, murderers, rabid rats, and magic while trying to find a way to close a dimensional portal they never meant to open.

Elena and Clay have always had a very sensual relationship, and Broken is no different - if a little more complicated due to her current “condition”. Though I recommend if you are new to the series to start with Bitten, the first story - told with much sarcasm and wit - of this most interesting couple, full of passion, anger, sex, and danger. This series is a great read if you like a lot of action mixed into your romance, with a fun supernatural and canine twist.

This was a reread, in preparation for the newest one in the series that just came out No Humans Involved which I shall be starting shortly.

Shouldn't have reread it though because I have 31 books signed out of the library to read! Woe is me ;-p

47. Wolf Moon - Charles de Lint

So normally I have to read a book all the way through before I start something new. Not sure how you guys can be reading 3 or 4 or more books at a time. I suppose with non-fiction I can put down a book in the middle and then pick it up again later (normally something that is short essay or entryish). But when it comes to fiction I get so wrapped up in the plot and lives of the characters that I can't even fanthom interrupting it with something else!

Not so with this new book I'm reading Season of the Witch. I started it while I was working overtime, setting up computer searches and then reading while they ran. I cranked out the first 100 pages during that 4 hour time span, slow reading for me, but I kept getting distracting. By lunch the next day I was almost 1/2 way through it. Then I hit part II of the book and couldn't read any farther.

Don't get me wrong I will finish it. And probably within the next two weeks because it has to go back to the library ;-p But that almost never happens to me! I do like the book, I'm intrigued by the plot, the murder mystery, and I hope there will be a good twist at the end. But somehow I just don't find myself that engrossed (in love) with the characters. They feel well developed but at the same time unbelievable - this coming from a girl who reads a lot of fantasy, scifi, and romance!

I think I'm confused. Normally once started I will plod through to the end no matter what.....does this happen to other people?

I feel like I'm having some kind of reader's block (like writer's block....only worse)!

I think you've beaten my personal record for the most books out from the library at once (I think mine was about 20) LOL

What did you think of Wolf Moon? It's one of the ones on my wishlist.

Also, is there another Elena story between Stolen and Broken? I'm contemplating skipping the Paige ones in between Elena's stories.

I don't think I've ever had that many books signed out either. But I sit at my desk at work and I read these posts, etc. and put things on hold at the library. They just always seem to come in at the same time!

Wolf Moon was okay, nothing special. The concept was a bit interesting (the magical music), but it could have been much better developed. I want to know more about the motivation of the bad guy, why he does it, they mention his true name but never really give any kind of back story.

It was okay...But I'll probably never reread it and I'm glad it was a library book.

No there isn't an Elena story between Stolen and Broken, though she does show up in the Paige ones. I liked the Paige ones well enough to read them more than once. I liked Lucas's character a lot. You should read Haunted though, Eve's story about the afterlife is good. But if you want to jump straight to Broken and go back to the others later, you won't be missing too much...just a few references now and then.

Wow, you read a lot of books!

The only one we share so far is the Anthology Love at First Bite, but you didn't add any notes of your thoughts on it.

I'm curious, from your review, about #11 and 12 on your list about the Decoy Princess, so I think I'll check those out. Thanks for posting your list!

48. The Frog Princess - E. D. Baker
Cute enough that I'll read the rest. Interesting twist on the kissing a frog to get a prince idea. I'd like to know more about what happens to Emma and Eadric, lots of trouble, I'm sure. These are a nice fluff diversion, short - a little over 200 pages - read it in less than a day.

Not as good as The Unhandsome Prince through, which I'll probably reread soon, because I found out John Moore has more fairytale spoofs - yay for being a an anal bookseller who picks books up off of the floor at other people's bookstores (that's how I stumbled upon A Fate Worse than Dragons).

49. No Humans Involved - Kelley Armstrong

The Women of the Otherworld series is peppered with supernatural species (either well researched or well imagined). Armstrong is very thorough in her construction of this world that the average human has no notion of. In this most recent addition, Jamie Vegas, resident necromancer, gets herself into a bit of trouble - and it’ll take some quick thinking, a lot of luck, and one very hot werewolf to get her out of it.

Although Jamie really can see and talk to the dead, she puts on her shows helping people to find closure with their lost loved ones, but fakes the connection - think Crossing Over with John Edward. But when Jamie participates in a reality show special in Hollywood, she makes contact with the real ghosts of dead and missing children. And only she can put them at rest and help to make sure that more do not join their ranks. Helping her along the way is Jeremy, Alpha of the only American werewolf pack (seen in Armstrong’s previous books).

Jamie has been in love with Jeremy since she first met him four years before, but could hardly say two words to the strong and quiet leader without tripping over her own tongue, and he seems oblivious to her feelings. Now their friendship is developing and she invites him to join her for the show. Will she finally get Jeremy to see how much she cares? I think I’ll leave that for you to find out. But let’s just say, it’s about time that Jeremy finally gets what he deserves and has secretly wanted - which is some loving of his own.

This was a nice addition to the series, Jamie is not my favorite character, but it was time that her story was really told, with a great mix of mystery, magic, romance, and danger thrown in. And anything that brings Jeremy more into the forefront and develops his character is certainly okay by me…I wouldn’t mind if Armstrong defied the title of the series a bit and wrote a Man of the Otherworld book featuring Jeremy *sigh*.

Anyway, good read, worth the effort.

Now I should probably get to the Saturday cleaning, instead of sitting in bed all day with a book ;-p

50. Dance with the Devil - Sherrilyn Kenyon

Kenyon has created a work of literary and paranormal romantic genius with her Dark-Hunter series. I recommend starting at the beginning though, with Fantasy Lover - which strictly speaking is not about a Dark-Hunter, but introduces you to the world she has fabricated. As the fourth book in the series, Dance with the Devil is probably her best one so far.

Zarek, who was a supporting character in the previous book Night Embrace, is seen as a villian (or at least quite insane) by most of those around him. Sentenced to death by the goddess Artemis for harming those he is sworn to protect, Acheron - believing in Zarek’s innocence - convinces her to have him “judged” first by a justice nymph. Enter Astrid. She has never judged a man innocent in her whole long life, but is determined to give him a chance to prove he is not a danger to others - even as he scares her with his abrasive and uncivilized attitude…can anyone see where this is going?

This was a fantastic book! The descriptions of Zarek’s mortal life, as a slave to a Roman family 2,000 years ago, almost moved me to tears. The banter between Astrid and her werewolf companion Sasha is highly amusing, the introduction to Simi - Acheron’s demon companion who exists as a tattoo on his body - is hysterical, and the quoting of the Little Prince by both main characters was so poignant, that I signed that book out of the library right away. Oh, and it takes place in Alaska…a cool (cold really) location for this story about a man who can’t stand the sunlight; an immortal condemned to spend the last 900 years and the rest of eternity not being able to freeze to death! Plus there are some great fight scenes as Zarek carrys out his role as a Dark-Hunter, which is killing soul-sucking Daimons. But this time things aren’t so easy as the Daimons find a way to fight back….

And as always Kenyon maintains and expands on the overarching subplot about Acheron, and who and/or what he really is. Can’t wait for her to write his book, but somehow I think that would be the end of the series. We can’t have that now, can we?

A reread, can't say how much I love Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark-Hunter books. Definitely some fantastic storylines and plotting going on here. Not only is each individual book incredible, but the overall plot arc (especially about Acheron) just keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Side note: Yay, for hitting my 50th book!

51. Dragon's Breath - E. D. Baker
Sequel to The Frog Princess. Once again, cute enough to keep reading. I like the interaction between Emma and Eadric, but their obstacles are normally easily overcome and I don't like Emma's mother's mean attitude towards her. I'll keep reading them though, after all they only take a few hours a piece. Just glad they're library books and I didn't buy them.

52. The Fire Thief - Terry Deary
Not a bad book, very easy to read, and entertaining interaction between the narrator and the reader - he writes footnotes to the reader. A decent book if you want to introduce some basic Greek mythology to someone 8 and up. But pretty simplistic all around. I may read the sequel if only because it would take less than 2 hours.

We have a similar interest in Jeremy! (Women of the Otherworld).

Congrats on the 50th book :-) As you probably know, Kenyon is one of my fave authors as well.

The Frog Princess looks very cute, of course I love anything with froggies! I'll have to check them out.

53. Once Upon a Curse - E. D. Baker
As we continue the story of Emma and Eadric...they have to go back in time to undo the curse that was put on their family centuries ago, before Emma falls victim to it herself. Entertaining as the rest of them; I liked the introduction of new characters.
However I was getting really peeved that Emma was told not to interfere or she could change things in her time, but she kept doing it with no apparent ramifications at the end. There wasn't even any kind of disclosure like "oh because of some weird time paradox she was the one who had caused those events in the first place, etc". You know like the third HP book when he thought it was his dad, but it was really him......

Aside from that, as cute and enjoyable as the rest of them.

54. No Place for Magic - E. D. Baker
Last one in the Frog Princess series (so far, though I think there might be a prequel coming out). Emma and Eadric are finally getting married. But it turns out that magic is not really welcome in Eadric's kingdom, so both Emma and her future subjects have a lot of work to do to come to an understanding. Also Eadric's nasty little brother gets kidnapped by trolls and they have to rescue him.

This is probably one of the best ones so far, because finally all the elements have come together. However, I think Baker could probably continue to write untold number of adventures with Emma, Eadric, and company. Or even lots of backstories ;-p

55. Tithe - Holly Black

Jen,

Sorry it took me this long to write a review about this one. I liked Tithe well enough to read the rest of Holly Black's books, but I'm not in love with it.
Not because, like you said, it's dark and gritty, but it just took soo long to get into the actual story and the actual story wasn't that flushed out.
I got tired of the teen angst of the other characters, and I realize that Kaye's relationship with her mother was crucial in her character development it didn't really feed into the story (I would have liked for it to tie in somehow). I liked Roiben, but he was a very one-dimensional character. You never know his thoughts or what motivates him. (I hope we see more of him in Ironside:).
But I didn't dislike it! It just wasn't as good as I was hoping. I think the grittiness was used more to shock the audience than to develop the characters and/or plot. *shrug* It just could have been a much better story. But I'll keep reading.

What did you think of Tithe?

56. Suddenly You - Lisa Kleypas

In a time when women were not supposed to be curious about carnal pleasures, spinster Amanda Briars does the unthinkable and hires a male prostitute to relieve her of her virginity on the night of her thirtieth birthday. Unknowingly, Jack Devlin appears on her doorstep at that appointed time, and receives quite an unexpected welcome.

The prim novelist and the unscrupulous Irish publisher make quite the interesting pair in this historical English romance. When Amanda finds out who Jack really is, his reputation - and his acquisition of her first novel - causes her outrage. But anger turns to passion as a whirlwind affair ensues. However, knowing about his past and believing that Jack will never marry her, Amanda tries to save herself from heartache. She breaks off the affair and - much to Jack’s torment - bending to convention and social demands, she plans to marry a fellow writer, whom she admires but does not love. But who wants to read a book without a happy ending? Circumstances push Jack and Amanda back together, and then disaster almost rips them apart again.

Character development was done pretty well in this story, though I wish we could have seen a bit more through Jack’s eyes. He has a great quote when Amanda asks why he would want to ruin the integrity of her novel by publishing it as a serial. He responds, “Because owning books shouldn’t be a privilege of the rich. I want to print good books in a way that the masses can afford them. A poor person needs the escape far more than a wealthy man.” Well said! There is also lots of discussion about women’s issues in this book, Amanda as an independent career woman in a time where most women must marry to be provided for.

This was a fabulously witty novel, fast paced and difficult to put down. Damn my day job! There were some pretty sensual scenes in this book, and most hilariously Amanda’s outrage at some of the things that Jack suggests they try, but she cannot deny her desire. As you should not deny the desire to read their story.

57. In the Forests of the Night - Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

So I've finally gotten around to reviewing my latest reads. This was not my favorite of the four books in this series. I understand that this book was written when Amelia was only thirteen and it's fabulous for being written by someone at that age, but it just wasn't all that. It definitely could have been longer and more flushed out. But it was a decent basis for the series and the later books get better.

58. Demon in my View - Amelia Atwater-Rhodes
This one was better than the first, but still not fabulous. She could have taken the whole series and put them in one volume of connected short stories. I do like Aubrey as a character though. And it was interested to find out about Jessica's mother and how she is able to get into the minds of the vampires.

>55 Morphidae: I thought Ironside: A Modern Faery's Tale was much better than Tithe and Roiben certainly had a lot more depth in the story. Once you get to it I'd be curious on your thoughts there as well.

Also, Amelia Atwater-Rhodes is another fave author of mine so I look forward to your reviews on those books as well :-)

59. Shattered Mirror - Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

Maybe I'm being hard on the author. Thinking back I did enjoy these books, they were fast and fun, easy reads. I particularly liked this one. The poetry in it was beautiful as was the touchy resolution at the end. I liked all of the characters and their interaction, and I really liked Christopher!

60. Midnight Predator - Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

This one was pretty good too, though it didn't really connect well to the first ones, which had all seemed to build on each other. This one was just sort of out there. I liked Jaguar the most and would love to know what happens to him later.

61. Firebirds Rising

I struggled to get through this anthology. Most of the stories are just so way out there, even for me. Maybe if they were made into longer books with more explanations they would have made more sense. Some of them remind me of Aesop's Fables, short stories that teach a moral or lesson, but they are just so hard to relate to that you get the lesson but didn't enjoy the story.

However I did greatly enjoy the one called In the House of Seven Librarians. About a baby who was left on the doorstep of a library as payment for a very overdue book and is raised by the librarians.

There is a first Firebirds anthology and I'll probably skim it to see if anything is of interest.

62. Wolf at the Door - Christine Warren

As the first book in a new paranormal series, Warren is off to a running start. A Novel of the Others, Wolf at the Door is the “tail” of Sullivan Quinn and Cassidy Berry. Quinn, coming from a long line of Irishman werewolf ambassadors, comes to the States as a delegate from the European Council of Others to the American Council to advocate that it is time for the Others to announce themselves to the humans of the world and try to coexist peacefully and truthfully. Cassidy is a Foxwoman, an anthropologist who - although being from a long and illustrious line of diplomats herself - has no interest in politics, but - based on her expertise - is vehemently against the idea of unveiling themselves to the world. Throw in a religious fanatical group bent on the complete exposition and destruction of all Others, several kidnappings, a domineering and opinionated old fox (literally) of a grandmother, and some steamy love scenes to make this a good start to, what looks to be, a great new series.

I enjoyed this romance for it’s very witty quips and dialogue, the interesting characters, and because it opens up a world that Warren could write about for some time. The romance was pretty easy with few obstacles - but lots of sex, as Warren spent more time on the overall plot than on the two getting together. Which is often nice, because even I get bored from time to time with a romance novel just being the constant misunderstandings between the couple keeping them apart and the easy resolution at the end that could have been found in the beginning. Not to mention, that this was an introduction novel, and she had to spend some time establishing the new world

That is not to say that I haven’t read better paranormal romance, but you can’t only read the “best book ever” or you would shortly run out of things to read. I think Warren has a lot of potential and I look fowarding to reading her next one, She’s No Faerie Princess. I hope at some point she’ll write a backstory about how werejaguar Felix (that’s like a werewolf Alpha) Rafael de Santos met his witchy (again, literally) wife Tess!

Oh, and I have to share my favorite line from this book you - well, at least my favorite PG one.
Quinn to Cassidy - “I need you to understand what you do to me. You go to my head like whiskey, and I’m asking you nicely to please let me have another sip.” Boy, would I have liked to hear that in his sweet Irish brogue. *sigh*

63. Nobody's Princess - Esther Friesner

This is a cute YA novel about Helen of Sparta (you might remember her better as Helen of Troy). I look forward to reading the rest of this series (too bad I have to wait until April '08 for the next one) about the childhood years of Helen of Sparta, who doesn't want to be anyone's wife, she only wants to learn to be a warrior.

This story reminded me alot of the Alanna books (not quite as good though), with a very healthy dose of Greek Mythology mixed in. Quite enjoyable.

64. The Tail of Emily Windsnap - Liz Kessler

A bit younger in reading age than I expected. This one and the sequel were a bit juvenile, lots of pre-teen angst about nobody wanting to be her "best friend". Also a pretty standard, girl finds out she's part mermaid story.

65. The Black Tattoo - Sam Enthoven

I very much enjoyed this book. Great debut novel for the author. Charlie and Jack are two ordinary best mates, that get sucked into an extraordinary superhero adventure. Charlie is possessed by a demon called the Scourge who offers to make him Emperor of Hell. Jack has to convince Charlie that the demon is really using him to unmake of all Creation. Esme is a girl who has trained her entire life to fight the Scourge, and although she doesn't really get enough facetime she is a great character.

The book was a little long, but well detailed and quite philosophical at times. I really liked that the entity who created our world (as an experiment) was named Godfrey - or "God" for short.

I really recommend this book for those that like YA and superhero stories, with some great martial arts/sword fighting bits thrown in.

66. Emily Windsnap and the Monster from the Deep - Liz Kessler

Same deal as the first. Really annoying, I've done something bad my parents won't love me anymore mentality. Very fast read though. Also a very standard, Bermuda Triangle story with a kraken thrown in for good measure.

67. Spirited Away - Cindy Miles

Twelve years ago, Andrea “Andi” Monroe’s over active imagination made her think she saw the appartition of a medieval knight and she’s dreamed of him ever since. Now Dr. Monroe, a highly respected forensic archeologist, she is given the opportunity to excavate a site located in that same location, knowing full well that ghosts don’t exist. Always fascinated by castle Dreadmoor and the legend of the mighty Dragonhawk who - with fourteen of his best knights -disappeared without a trace right out of medieval history, Andi jumps at the chance to investigate a body found under an ancient oak and the cache of weapons buried with it. But things get a bit more complicated when the ghosts of said legend show up.

Tristan de Barre, the infamous and cursed Dragonhawk, Lord of Dreadmore didn’t mean to let Andrea find out that he was a ghost, but being incorporeal has its disadvantages. He certainly didn’t mean to fall in love with her. But after seven centuries of loneliness with only his fellow ghostly knights and his mortal stewards to keep him company….well any man would be tempted. As would any woman who meets the knight of her dreams - literally. But one of them being dead is not the worst of this couple’s problems when a malevolent spirit tries to keep them apart.

This was a very cute story that I enjoyed immensely. A nice debut novel from Cindy Miles, I expect good things from her - supposedly she going to be writing ghost romances. This one was not of the incredibly steamy sort, but you’d be surprised by how sensual a ghostly touch can be.

I have been reading your thread! Other than the paranormal romance, though (Kenyon, Davidson, etc.) there doesn't seem to be much that has caught my eye yet.

:(

68. Naked in Death - J.D. Robb
This is the beginning to one of my favorite series of all time! I agreed to loan this out to a friend and found that I couldn’t let go of it without rereading it, for the gazillionth time.

Beautiful and charismatic Sharon DeBlass, a licensed companion (prostitute) and the granddaughter of a highly respected U.S. Senator, is murdered in her bed by an antiquated weapon - a gun.

Lieutenant Eve Dallas is a homicide detective for the NYPSD in the year 2058. She’s a no-nonsense cop who lives for the job. But when a serial killer leads her to believe that gorgeous Irish billion Roarke is a suspect sparks will fly - and a few punches too. Fighting her growing feelings for Roarke, searching for a killer - and only succeeding at one out of the two - Eve takes you on a wild ride that is difficult to put down. And I guarantee that it will not be the last!

This is a great series because it’s just a little futuristic, enough to make it interesting but not enough for it to be too weird. You’ll find these in the mystery department, but I definitely thing of them as romantic suspense. Murder and mayhem with steamy love scenes, Eve’s sarcastic wit, Roarke’s gorgeous everything…and I’m hooked for life. I read them over and over!

Is Naked in Death the first book? I'm interested in starting that series.

Yes, as mentioned above, it is. And they are all absolutely fabulous! Probably some of my favorite books of all time (and that says a lot). I hope you enjoy.
Sorry that we don't seem to share much that's here...but this isn't a great estimate of everything that I like to read. After looking through your thread (which you haven't updated lately, I see that you don't always write comments either ;-p) we do read many of the same things, I just haven't read them in the last 6 months.
I love the Tamora Pierce books (contemplating a reread here soon), and the Little House books, and many of the others on your list.
I've kind of branched into a new direction this year. I've always read a few YA novels, but lately I've been on a huge kick. Partly because they keep putting me in the childred's dept. at the bookstore, partly because there has been a huge explosion in YA fantasy in the last few years.

Anywho.....I've rambled long enough.

69. Fantasy Lover - Sherrilyn Kenyon
Another reread.

If there was a Greek Muse of paranormal romance it would be Sherrilyn Kenyon. Kenyon has written several books previously, but her Dark-Hunter series is what (in my opinion) made her a bestseller. And this is where it all starts, my friends. Strictly speaking, Fantasy Lover is NOT a Dark-Hunter novel, but it does introduce you to the world of Greek gods and goddesses in the modern world, and to these very scrumptious ancient heroes.

Julian of Macedon - daughter of Aphrodite and a Spartan general, mortal enemy and terror of the Rome empire, lusted for by women everywhere - was cursed to be the obedient love-slave of anyone who conjures him out of his scroll/book. Okay, most guys would think that’s not so bad, no commitments, no strings, just lots of sex! But for 2,000 years Julian has been used by women for his looks and touch alone, with no one to care about him for who he is or take care of his needs. Until born-again virgin, sex therapist Grace Alexander’s eccentric best friend talks her into conjuring Julian from his book. But in the year 2002, Grace didn’t really believe that it would work. Boy was she wrong, and she’s in for one scintillating month! But what will happen when Julian is sucked back into the book and she’s alone again.

The Greek pantheon didn’t mess around when they punished someone, but every curse can be broken, can’t it? Find out if love conquers all or if this really is a Greek tragedy. I promise you won’t regret it!

Notable funny moment: Julian calls one of the gods a “worthless footnote”. I laughed out loud!

Fantasy Lover is one of my faves :-)

BTW-Thanks for recommending The Black Tattoo, I checked it out and it certainly seems like a book I'm interested in reading. The description kind of reminded me of City of Bones, although I'm not sure why. Maybe because they're both debut novels in that genre.

Also, I liked your reviews of the Amelia Atwater-Rhodes books. You pretty much had the same feelings about the books that I did ('specally about Christopher/Kristopher LOL) My favorite of her books is Hawksong although I didn't really like any of the sequels nearly as much. If you get a chance to read it you might like it.

I actually have that whole Hawksong series out of the library right now. But since I just finished her other ones I was going to put them off for just a bit. But I'll get to them in the next couple of weeks and let you know what I think.

I haven't read City of Bones, was it good? I think I didn't because it's the first in a series and I hate waiting for the next books and since I have so much else to read right now, I figured there was no rush.

70. Full Moon Rising - Keri Arthur

Arthur blows the top off of the idea of werewolves, vampires, and really hot sex! Riley Jenson is an uber-gorgeous werewolf/vampire crossbreed and like all werewolves her libidio goes into overdrive one week a month (don’t we all know that feeling).

These books are in a completely new locale for me, Australia - mostly Melbourne - how cool is that?! I believe they take place sometime in the future though we’re never told an exact date, but that in no way takes away from the enjoyment. Riley Jenson and her twin brother Rhoan work for the Directorate, kind of a police system for nonhumans. But when she is attacked repeatedly in a short span of time, it becomes evident that the reasons are more than her werewolf nature or Directorate employment.

As if Riley doesn’t have enough problems, her brother is missing and a naked, gorgeous vampire turns up on her doorstep looking for him. Quinn O’Connor, multibillionaire and milennia old vampire, is trying to find out who has it in for him and won’t leave until he speaks to Rhoan (did I mention he was naked). Oh, and then there’s this whole plot about genetics, cloning, unnatural creatures, and really bad guys.
I wouldn’t recommend this book (the first in an all new series) to the faint of heart. It’s full of action, lots of sex (multiple partners), only a little romance, and a whole new look at nonhuman cultures. I enjoyed it and promptly bought the whole series.

Honestly it’s not for everyone, but it you like it a lot riské, this one is for you. I know some of you out there will love it!

Any body else been going nuts with LT out of commission for 3 days? I haven't known what to do with myself at work!

71. The Faerie Path - Frewin Jones

Another story of a human girl finding out she's really a faerie princess. But at least she had an interesting story.

Anita ends up back in Faerie to find out that she's the seventh daughter (Tania), and prophecy says only she has the ability to walk both the Faerie and Mortal Realm. Apparently on the night before her wedding 500 years ago, she put the prophecy to the test, and got stuck in the mortal world.

The rest of the book is explanation of her other 6 sisters and their idiosyncrasies, her internal debate about which man to trust her heart to, and the inevitable betrayal of one of said men.

The end sets up a sequel where she goes back to the Mortal with a mission.

Cute, but nothing special. I would recommend it to pre-teen to mid-teen girls. (And those of us adults who like YA fantasy).

72. Fluke, Or, I Know Why the Winged Whale Sings - Christopher Moore

This was an...interesting...book. I liked it, but I spent most of the book wondering why I was reading it.

It's the story of marine biologist who has spent his life trying to figure out the meaning of the humpback whales' song. And he discovers a whale that has the words BITE ME spelled out on his fluke. Subsequently he lab is broken into, and oh, yeah....he gets swallowed by a whale. And things just get interesting from there.

I think I liked this book, it was odd (which says a lot considering what I normally read). It just wasn't at all what I was expecting, which isn't necessarily a bad thing...I just couldn't really figure out where the author was coming from.

However, it was a very funny book in parts. Moore definitely has a sense of humor.

I was pretty much going through LT DTs too LOL

I can't remember if I ever answered your City of Bones question. I did enjoy it. It wasn't the best book I ever read, but certainly not the worst. The ending did set up another book although I wouldn't say that it was a cliffhanger.

73. Bloodsucking Fiends: A Love Story - Christopher Moore

Another funny one, which again I liked but it was very different from what I normally read - but I guess you have to branch out sometimes.

Jody is attacked one dark night and when she wakes up the next nights, she's dead. Now she has to cope with being a vampire (and figure out she's a vampire) with no one to teach her.

Tommy moves to San Francisco from Middle America, to be a writer, but works on a supermarket night crew. Then he becomes Jody's "minion/food/love slave".

The story really focuses on them trying to understand her nature, with some very funny incidents mixed in. At the end is a confrontation between Jody, Tommy, Tommy's drugged up friends, and the ancient vampire who turned Jody at the beginning of the book.

Funny, but again, odd.

74. Keturah and Lord Death - Martine Leavitt

This was a pretty book, the writing and ideas flowed beautiful and the story was very touching.

Keturah becomes lost in an enchanted wood, and when Lord Death comes to claim her, she tells him a story and then barters one more day of freedom for the end of the tale. Each night he comes to her and each night she tells him a new story, as she continues to live out her remaining days, searching for the end of her own love story.

I recommend this lovely tale.

75. Valiant: A Modern Tale of Faerie - Holly Black

Overall, I didn't really like this book, not completely sure why. I liked the sword fighting lessons, and the end, but most of the content just didn't appeal to me.

Valerie runs away from home after seeing her mom "getting it on" with her high school boyfriend. She lives on the streets of New York with a group of other runaway homeless kids, who spend their days rummaging through dumpsters for junk to sell, and their nights shooting up faerie drug and using the glamour it gives them to manipulate people.

Maybe the lesson is that nothing is what you expect it to be, and that you can go home again (though you'll never be the same). But for some reason it just felt like too much to me. I don't mind sex, violence, drugs, or fantasy that clashes or mixes with reality...but for some reason this book just put me off.

I am looking forward to reading Ironside: though, because I liked Kaye and Roiben's story, and want to know more about them.

76. Hawksong - Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

I liked this series better than the Atwater-Rhodes other series...whatever it was called. The characters were more interesting, the mythology was cool, and the blooding feuding had more emotion in it.

In the first book, Danica - heir to the avian people, who all have a second bird form - is made to realize that the only way to bring peace to her people is to marry the heir to the serpente people, Zane, her most hated enemy.

The book spends a lot of time detailing the different cultures and the hatred between them, and the difficulty in overcoming those differences. All the while the young couple finds themselves becoming true friends and perhaps even falling in love.

77. Snakecharm - Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

This was a short continuation of the series, an emissary from the powerful and scary falcon people arrives looking for a fugitive. She is appalled at the thought that the avian and serpente people are trying to create peace, and threatens it will never work. She also claims that the falcons will never allow a mixed-blood child to survive, namely an heirs that Danica and Zane might produce.

I liked this one too, despite its shortness.

78. Falcondance - Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

At the end of Snakecharm, plans were being laid to create a home that was neither avian or serpente but a combination of both cultures. Nicias, the son of two falcons, grew up in Wyvern's Court, but desperately seeks to visit the white city of the falcons and learn to control his growing magically abilities.

While there he learns many secrets about his adopted people and the role that the falcons had to play in all their pasts.

79. Wolfcry - Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

Oliza Shardae Cobriana is the daughter of Danica and Zane. She is a wyvern, a cross between her hawk mother and cobra father - though she can assume both of their shapes, the heir to a legacy of war and distrust, a hope for peace between two peoples.

But Oliza is kipnapped and taken far from her home, trapped in her human form. But in her attempt to find her way home, she'll meet other shifters, make friends, and realize the ultimate truth about herself.

These are really good books, and I look forward to the next one in the series, Wyvernhail coming out in September.

80. Twelve Sharp - Janet Evanovich

If you’ve never read a Stephanie Plum novel before, I don’t recommend you start with this one. Please begin with One for the Money, and the numbers go up sequentially (how nice of our dear Janet to title them so conveniently). Also if you’ve read this series all the way through, you probably didn’t need to read this review to have rushed out and bought Twelve Sharp the minute it hit shelves a couple of weeks ago, or even earlier if you splurge on hardcovers - more than likely you’ve even beaten me to reading Lean Mean Thirteen already. But for those few who think “well, maybe this one won’t be as fantastic as the others…”, let me put your mind at ease. It was fantabulous!

You just can’t get enough of Stephanie and Lula bungling apprehensions, dressed-in-drag Sally Sweet and his new band (of which Lula is now a member), Granny Mazur trying to lift the lid on a closed casket, Morelli’s good old Italian boy hotness, and Ranger’s dangerous sex appeal. But these just keep getting better and better. First, Ranger’s wife shows up - she is armed and pissed. I know you’re thinking “Whoa! Ranger actually tied down with his very own ball and chain?” Not to mention, “Scumbag! Then why is he all over our heroine?” Never fear, all will be explained in good time. Then news reports come in that Ranger’s daughter has been kidnapped - by Ranger! Another “Whoa!!.” This one with two exclamation marks.

Now Ranger has to lie low from the Feds; he can’t go back to his place, so he moves in with Stephanie. “Whoa!!!” number three. Morelli’s not going to stand for this, he moves in too. Can you say testosterone overload? Oh, and Stephanie has a new psycho stalker…

I simply adore the love triangle in these books, and honestly I don’t blame Stephanie for not being able to choose between Morelli and Ranger. I am insanely jealous though that she has the choice to make at all!

81. You Suck : A Love Story - Christopher Moore

The sequel to Blood-Sucking Fiends is more of the same, except this time Tommy is a vamp too. Still funny, but getting old.

82. Wicked Nights - Nina Bangs

A foray into the worlds of Nina Bangs…a good place to be. This was my first book by Ms. Bangs, and quite fun. The first book in the trilogy “Wicked”, it is set up nicely with the three MacNair “brothers”. These three warriors are all immortal by very unique means, and all of them are employed by the Castle of Dark Dreams - a theme park that allows you to live out your ultimate fantasies. Think of how much money they save on makeup by using real supernatural creatures!

The resident vampire of the trio introduces us to a new concept for the world of the undead, Eric MacKenzie - an eight hundred year old hottie - was born into a Viking clan that are born human, but become vamps as they mature. Kind of cool. The best part is that his clan later settled in Scotland - after raiding and pillaging - so you get that hot Viking guy crossed with sexy Highland guy in a kilt with a lilting brogue. *sigh* Then after eight centuries of one night stands, who would have thought that the woman who would change his life would be a talk show host?!

Donna Nolan, aka Donna 'til Dawn, decides to take her late night radio talk show on the road after getting a series of calls from listeners claiming to be nightly ravished by a mysterious and gorgeous man at the Castle of Dark Dreams. Thinking that through some investigative measures (poking her nose into places it’s not wanted) she’ll debunk these paranormal stories, what she didn’t expect to find out was that vampires, wizards (Holgarth is one of my favorite characters), goddesses, and cosmic troublemakers were going to make her life pretty interesting. Oh, and that there would be two plants in her room who actually live off of sexual energy (oddly named Sweetie Pie and Jessica).

You’ve got to hand it to the author, she’s got quite the imaginative sense of humor and sets up a bit of a mystery that is not resolved at the end…so that you’ll read the next book (I know I will). Pretty par for the course when it comes to paranormal romances, but it adds another facet to the precious gem that is my favorite genre.

83. A Well-Timed Enchantment - Vivian Vande Velde

Boring book, don't read.

84. A Hunger Like No Other - Kresley Cole

This is another new to me romancer, and I am quite pleased with her take on the paranormal universe. She introduces some new species - and some new names to the old ones - that I’ve yet to read about, and I’m excited to hear more.

The heroine of this tale is of one of these new races, or at least a halfling. Emmaline Troy is the daughter of a vampire and a Valkyrie, a most unusual union. After her mother dies of a broken heart, Emma was adopted by a coven of her Valkyrie aunts - sworn enemies of the vampires. Still young for an immortal being, at only 70 years of age, she goes against her normally fearful nature and travels to Paris - searching for some clue about her father’s identity and her parents’ forbidden union.

Lachlain MacRieve, the immortal king of the Lykae Clan, another sworn enemy of the vampires - as all werewolves are - has spent the last century and a half chained to the eternal fire in the catacombs of Paris, tortured by the vampire ruler, burning alive with no relief in death. When there remains no hope for release or reprieve, Lachlain senses his “mate” in the streets above; the one woman he spent centuries scouring the world for (of course, that was a lost cause, since she hadn’t been born yet). With preternatural strength and the loss of a leg, he wrenches free from his bonds and sets about finding his destined love. Isn’t that romantic and just downright sexy?

This is where the story gets interesting. Much to his outrage, his mate is a vampire (or so he thinks) - much to her terror, she is stalked and then kidnapped by an “animal” (or so she thinks).

Now, some people might not be receptive to the way Emma keeps saying “no” while Lachlain continues to force his attentions on her, but in the supernatural sense of her being his mate and the lack of communication about their true selves - it’s really just more frustrating that they’re not giving in to their mutual attraction.

But the storyline is good - a nice introduction to this new world - and the supporting characters bring a lot of charm to the novel, as well as setting us up with fun sequels. The twist at the end was predictable to a point, then rather unexpected. All in all, I enjoyed it and look to start the next Immortals After Dark book soon (which I accidentally bought first)!

85. Sing the Light - Louise Marley

I liked this story about a frozen world that must have singers who can create warmth and light through pyschic powers that are focused through their music.

It's a story of politics, betrayal, ambition, loss, love, and duty. Unfortunately there are two other books in this trilogy and they're all out of print!

Bah! Guess I'm going to have to track down used copies. What is it with libraries never seeming to have a complete series.....?

86. Glory in Death - J.D. Robb

Every once in a while I need a comfort book, sometimes I’m just feeling a little down and I need an old friend to cheer me up - lately J.D. Robb has been my teddy bear. Hard to believe a book about a hard-nose cop who tracks down serial kills can be just as good as a pint of Ben & Jerry’s - but trust me, it’s better.

In this second incarnation of the story of Eve and Roarke, people are dying as always. This time it’s a high profile prosecuting attorney, and a sometimes colleague of Lieutenant Dallas, who had her throat viciously cut in a dark rainy alley. Meanwhile Eve is trying to come to grips with her feelings for Roarke, not to mention him pushing her to accept his love.

With the media almost one step ahead of her, her commander’s lack of objectivity, and Eve’s nightmares about a past trauma she’s repressed - oh, and some steamy loves scenes and heated arguments - it’s just another chase in the park for NYPSD’s best and most sarcastic.

what about harry potter? who do you think is going to die next?

the book under the watsons porch, has any body ever read it?

87. Date Me, Baby, One More Time - Stephanie Rowe

Derek LaValle has less than a week to break a 180 year old curse on the men in his family before it kills him and his twin brother, in some really improbable way (like being impaled by a wayward butter knife). Unfortunately to do that he has to find the Goblet of Eternal Youth (no easy task) and kill its Guardian (even harder).

Apparently eternal youth isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Especially, when it means you can’t leave your apartment, have a social life (i.e. no sex), or explain to anyone why. But Justine Bennett has spent the last 200 years as the Guardian of the Goblet of Eternal Youth (a.k.a Mona), which is this modern day and age manifests as an espresso machine. Cooped up in her apartment with her roommate Theresa, an 11 foot-long blue-green sex-crazed and sex-deprived dragon (who used to be a person), Justine deals with the day to day boredom of her job and wishes for some excitement.

Enter Justine’s mother (the previous Guardian) and the reluctant love of Satan’s life. She tells
Justine that someone is coming to steal Mona and Justine has to kill him to keep her mother from going to Hell (trust me, the logic makes sense). But Derek fires up all of the hormones that Justine has been suppressing for the last two centuries; and Justine is the only who can help Derek break the curse on his family. And together only they can keep Mona safe from the person who is really after it.

I loved this quirky new addition to comedic paranormal romance (hey, I think I just invented a new category), definitely a “must read”! The interaction between all the characters was hysterical, especially the battle of wills between Justine’s mother and Satan. The concept is definitely different and well done, the action scenes are over the top funny, and the romance is worth it. I know you’ll love it! I've got to check out the sequel Must Love Dragons ...guess who that’s about ;-p

88. No Rest for the Wicked - Kresley Cole

If you’d lived for three hundred lonely years, cursing your immortal vampiric existence, and the one woman who is destined to be yours (your Bride) walks in - would you let her walk out again? Neither will Sebastian Wroth, even if Kaderin the Coldhearted - the legendary emotionally void Valkyrie, slayer of vampires - would rather kick his ass, then face the same of her desire for him.

Kaderin goes to a solitary castle deep in the heart of Russia to slay the vampire that (supposedly) is terrorizing a village. But something stays her hand from the final stroke, the sorrow in his gorgeous eyes that are simply begging her to end his life. Suddenly, for the first time in a millennium, she is flooded with emotions - and she so doesn’t need them, ever, but especially right now just as she’s preparing for the Hie. This is a really cool “amazing race” type competition for the supernatural creatures of the Lore, in which she is going to be getting some unwanted assistance, by the vampire who just won’t take “get lost” for an answer.

This is a great sequel to A Hunger Like No Other, Kresley Cole has created a rich cast of supporting characters, awesome action scenes in exotic locales, emotional conflicts, and an ending to die for. I’m really enjoying her paranormal series (I might just have to check out her historicals). I look forward to the next one - Wicked Deeds on a Winter’s Night, coming out in October - and hope she keeps writing!

Hey, I read Wicked Nights a long time ago and forgot about it. Your review brought it all back to me. I've been thinking I hadn't read anything by her yet!

I'm curious to hear what you thought Kresley Cole's books. I'm kind of on a reading kick of her books because I like her writing a lot. Right now I'm reading her nautical historical novels. Also wondering if you liked Hawksong and Date me Baby, One More Time?

89. Lean Mean Thirteen - Janet Evanovich

Stephanie and the crew are back; I never tire of these books! This time our favorite Jersey girl bounty hunter is wanted for murder. Her ex-husband is missing and she was last seen throttling him - not that he didn’t deserve it!

When Ranger asked Stephanie to bug Dickie Orr’s office, she was surprised but willing to help. Now he’s missing, and with evidence of foul play, she’s the number one suspect. So determined to clear her name, she starts following the money trail of the millions of dollars he was suspected of embezzling. But this trail leads her to murder and mayhem - and some funny twists and turns.

I missed Morelli in this book. He spent a good deal of the time “working” and only communicating with Stephanie by phone. However you get a good healthy dose of Ranger, which is always nice. Janet Evanovich is the queen of dragging out the sexual tension. Of course, I think once Stephanie settles down with only one man the series will either end or lose quite a bit of its pull.

90. Dragon's Keep - Janet Lee Carey

I liked this tale of a family line descended from the Pendragons, but exiled six hundred years earlier.

Rosalind, the princess destined to be the 21st queen of Wilde Island, was born to fulfill a prophecy. But she was born with a shameful secret. The ring finger of her right hand is not a long, beautiful, and slender digit like all the rest, but a hideous dragonclaw - talon and all.
All her life she has been treated for ailments that she doesn't have, in the hopes the one will cure her "mar", but none ever do. Only her mother knows her secret and any others who might have discovered it have all died by mysterious accidents.
Until the day comes when she is stolen by dragons, and forced to live with them raising the young dragon pips.

I recommend this book to anyone who likes dragons, mysteries, and just good imaginative stories.

91. Winter of Fire - Sherryl Jordan

In a world that no longer sees the sun, the people survive through the use of firestones, that give off some light and warmth. The Firelord divines where the stones are buried in the earth and the Quelled (an oppressed slavelike people) are forced to mine them.
But when his chosen apprentice turns out to be not only a Quelled but a woman, things begin to change in this strange land.
This was a decent fantasy novel about female empowerment and shifting paradigms. I liked the battle scene at the end.

92. Bitten and Smitten - Michelle Rowen

Think of the worst date you’ve ever had….have you got it? Good. Now I guarantee that Sarah Dearly’s date was infinitely worse. Okay, blind dates usually suck, right? Awkward silences, sweaty palms, the disappointment, annoyance, or clinginess, and the urge to kill the friend who set you up….But at least your date didn’t kill you. Sarah’s did, and then he buried her.

She wakes up a vampire and is immediately running for her life from hunters. With her sire (the date) dead, her rescuer powerful but suicidal, and being fired for sucking on her boss’s paper cut, her only refuge is a vampire night club masquerading as a tanning salon. Life (or death) is never going to be the same.

In the grand scheme of paranormal romances, this one is pretty tame. The only vampiric thing Sarah does is drink blood (out of a glass) and get hunted by vampire slayers. But there are two “heroes” throughout and until the end you’re really not sure who to root for (which is kind of fun and different). Thierry Bennicoeur is the suicidal, hot, sexy “Master” vampire, while Michael Quinn has a vendetta (and issues) all his own.

Some fun characters and interesting developments, not a “must read”, but not a waste of time. I plan to check out the sequel Fanged and Fabulous.

93. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

I know there's not much of a need to write a review for this one, but I thought I would jot down a few thoughts.

****SPOILERS****

Before I read this book, I really wanted Harry to die at the end. The ultimate hero, I wanted him to sacrifice himself for the greater good - to defeat Voldemort - and I wanted him to do it willingly. I know there were a lot of people who wanted him to die and a lot that wanted him to live. I must say that JKR was ingenious in her way of pleasing both sets of fans. Harry died, surrounded by his loved ones (at least the dead ones), met up with the dead Dumbledore and learned all the things that most people die wondering. And then he got to come back and use that knowledge.

What I didn't like, and I know many who share this sentiment, was the epilogue. Granted, I've always loved knowing what happens to the characters after a story is finished. I hate the idea that they've just vanished into the ether like the fictional characters that they are. But I was disappointed with the way she laid this one out. I hope that she was leaving room to write more stories, more adventures for Harry and his friends or even just other supporting characters that didn't get as much face time. But she told us what happened to Harry without really telling us anything at all. You know that 19 years later he's still alive and well and happy with a family and everything, but she says nothing of what he does now or how he got there. She might as well have turned the page and written "And They All Lived Happily Ever After". I think I would rather have been left wondering. Though I did like the little shout out that Snape wasn't such a bad guy after all....

Anyway, those are my thoughts. I hope someday she or someone decides to fill in those blanks. I think there are many more stories to tell. But if no one does, I'll still be happy to reread them over and over to myself and one day to my family.

94. Cupid - Julius Lester

Short retelling of the story of Cupid and Psyche. Though there wasn't much in there that I didn't already know, but I was amused at the narrator who was almost like another character in the book. Of course, he had a few too many opinions....but all in all, not a bad story.

95. The Frog Prince - Jane Porter

I was really surprised how well I liked this book. It wasn't my usual type of reading, but I found myself identifying with the character on many levels and it kept me thinking long after the book was over.

Not a romance, but a story of empowerment.

I would recommend this book to many women.

96. Let's Misbehave - Lisa Plumley

Even for a millionaire retail heiress, there’s only so much shopping one woman should do… Except Marisol Winston doesn’t believe that, even after her friends and family stage an intervention and force her into shopaholic rehab. Now all she has left to face, before her father will loosen his purse strings again, is the work assignment.

Cash Connelly has one more shot at professional football, and to prove to his ex that he can be a good provider and father to his six year old triplets. But he’s going to need professional help. Which is why he’s baffled when his mother-in-law hires an unqualified, but oh-so-sexy white mini-skirt wearing, nanny as his last hope. Soon he’ll realize she’s not just his last hope at life, but at love.

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this impulse buy (not my usual style). What did I care about L.A. heiresses and football superstars falling in love, anyway? (But the dogs on the front cover were cute!) But despite the lack of vampires, werewolves, swordplay, or times long ago…this story of finding out who you really are, of redefining yourself, through the eyes of a child (or three), a man, and a woman, really touches the heart and makes you believe in real life happily ever afters.

97. Bet Me - Jennifer Crusie

If you were being pursued by a man (the kind of which never chases slightly overweight actuaries), and you knew it was only because he’d made a bet with your ex…would you touch him with a 39 1/2 foot pole? Neither would Minerva “Min” Dobbs. At least not until Cal Morrissey starts to entice her with delicious foods and even more delectable kisses.

Min lives her life by statistics, and the odds of a man like Cal actually being interested in her for herself are slim to none. But circumstances and coincidences (fate?) keep putting them together. Cal is a player, or so everyone thinks, and isn’t interested in a serious relationship - until he gets a look at Min’s zany shoe collection.

This is a fabulous book - my first Crusie, and I hope they rest are as good - one of the few times I’ve been tempted to turn the book over and start again immediately. I love the way the entire cast of characters interacted: Min’s two best friends, her bride-to-be sister and bridesmaids, her weight obsessed “no carbs, no butter” mother, the ex-boyfriend, Cal’s two friends, his sugar-induced vomiting nephew, his chicken marsala-making restaurant-owning friend, the ex-girlfriend, and the snobby parents - they make for one hysterical ride. The side stories and subplots create a rich story and a ton of laughs. You can’t help but love it!

98. Kiss of the Highlander - Karen Marie Moning

Drustan MacKeltar is the epitome of a gorgeous brawny Highland laird; and if that isn’t enough to make you (me) swoon, he’s also a powerful Druid. But after spending five hundred years in an enchanted sleep to awaken in the twenty-first century, anyone would be a little confused and determined to make his way home - geographically and temporally.

Gwen Cassidy, brilliant physicist turned insurance saleswoman, came to Scotland to change her life, to find out if she had a heart worth giving, and - hopefully - to be divested of her twenty-five year old virginity. Unfortunately the only one, on the senior citizen bus tour she unwittingly signed up for, that is a likely candidate is the mentally unstable, incredible scrumptious guy she discovers - who thinks he’s a five hundred year old displaced Highland laird.

This is absolutely one of my favorite novels, a must read (and reread and reread, in my case), an incredible time travel romance full of magic, wonder, and heart. I love the passion, the quirks, the time period, and the hot sexy guys with swords riding horses….*sigh* There are great secondary characters, comedic scenes, and a little quantum theory thrown in for good measure. I can’t recommend it highly enough! Moning never fails to deliver in this series. And there is a great hook at the end to lead you right into the sequel “The Dark Highlander”.

99. The Harlequin - Laurell K. Hamilton

In the latest Anita Blake novel, I think LKH finally took some of her readers' comments to heart and toned down the sex a bit. It was still there and there was still a lot of talk about it, but it certainly wasn't as prominent as in some of the more recent ones.
I liked this one (well I've liked them all) for a couple of reasons. One, she brought back Edward! Yay, I've missed our sociopathic bounty hunter/preternatural hitman. He also brought his stepson along and Peter was a pretty good character.
Also, I liked the plot with the Harlequin, sort of vamp police force, and the character development between Anita and Richard (though he's gone back to being a bastard). And Malcolm, the head of the Church of Eternal Life, having to humble himself before Anita was quite funny.
I know some of you have, but I'm just not ready to give up on Anita yet. I will admit, that LKH isn't the greatest writer (grammatically or when recapping), but she comes up with great storylines - and for that I'll stick with her.

100. Born in Sin - Kinley MacGregor

Caledonia “Callie” MacNeely was taken hostage by Henry II, in an attempt to cease hostilities by Highland rebels against English settlers. Now he needs a man he can trust, to protect his interests, to marry the fiery lass and return her to her people - and discover and put down the rebels.

Sin is a hated and feared man, spurned from birth by his parents and sold into slavery by his knight sponsor; he was trained as an assassin by the Saracens, but now is eternally loyal to Henry for freeing him. But he never wanted to be tied down by a woman, nor does he desire a family - unwilling to bring a child into such a harsh and merciless world. However, it seems he has no choice, and so he weds the intriguingly intelligent beauty and returns with her to Scotland - a land he hoped never to see again.

Who doesn’t love the tortured hero, the kind that don’t think they deserve the heroine (what man does)? They’re definitely my favorite and Kenyon/MacGregor writes these gorgeous brooding alpha males with finesse. Sin believes in justice and happiness….just not for himself. And despite the fact the Callie hates everything English, she finds herself falling for this ferocious advisor to her enemy, and wishes for nothing more than a smile and a laugh from him.

Of the ones that I’ve read, this my favorite of the MacAllister novels - though they are all fabulous! I know you’ll love Sin as much as I do.

101. The Raven Prince - Elizabeth Hoyt

Respectable ladies do not work for a living, but widows who don’t work often starve, therefore Anna Wren had no choice but to apply for employment as the Earl of Swartingham’s secretary. Edward de Raaf had never had a female secretary before, but as he had already frightened off his last several male secretary he thought this stalwart lady might do.

Working side by side, Anna comes to appreciate the Earl’s gruff manner and subtle kindnesses. However, when she learns that on his frequent trips to London he visits a notorious brothel for his “manly” needs, she is disgusted - but intrigued. With the aid of a friend, she decides to infiltrate this brothel and attend to her own needs - with Edward, and he none the wiser.

This was a superb romance, with a very intriguing premise. The language was a little crude (or blunt), but erotic, without many of the delicate euphemisms of older romances. The characters were quite funny and the plotline complex with supporting players and subplots. I loved the dog, who definitely had a personality all his own! I look forward to Hoyt’s other books and her unique style.

102. The Royal Treatment - MaryJanice Davidson

Okay, so you’re not madly in love after only one dinner together. But is that any reason not to marry the prince, become a princess and one day, the queen? Apparently not.

Christine Krabbe, an unemployed former cruiseline cook, unknowingly meets and impresses the King of Alaska (yes, Alaska is its own country with a monarchy and everything). His Majesty “Al” offers her employment, or at least dinner at the palace. With nowhere else to go, she accepts.

David Baranov, the handsome crown prince, has more interest in penguins than women, but figures that this intriguing and attractive young woman would be a tolerable mate and probably a good queen. So he asked her to marry him. Okay, so it’s not a declaration of undying love, but who would turn down an offer like that? I wouldn’t.

The fascinating part of this comedic contemporary, set in a slightly alternate reality, is both the great interaction between the cast of characters (including the royal siblings, the head of security, and the penguins) and that it’s a marriage of convenience - in modern times - and the love must develop later. And it does…in the most interesting places.

A fun, fast read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Oh, and the other funny thing, the book is sort of presented as a historical account of past events. Makes it all the more entertaining. Now, off to find the sequels!

103. It Must Be Love - Rachel Gibson

Detective Joe Shanahan’s new assignment is stalking New Ager Gabrielle Breedlove. Of course, when she takes him out with a can of hairspray - the guys will never let him live that one down - the backup plan is to pose as her new boyfriend. Of course, on further evaluation of this wacky but alluring beauty, this could be the best gig he’s had yet - and not much of stretch for his acting abilities.

Gabrielle is very distressed by the notion that she must allow this totally sexy (but that’s besides the point) cop into her store to try to prove that her trusted friend and partner is a stolen art dealer. But she has no choice unless she wants to be charged as an accomplice; and she figures the only way to clear her friend’s name is to prove he’s innocent. But things start to heat up as she spends more and more time with her “boyfriend” and she just might be falling for real.

I liked this contemporary well enough. Sort of par for the course, but entertaining nonetheless. Sometimes contemporaries can be great reads, if only for the simply fact that they’re possible - they truly do allow you to dream. Besides, even in print Joe was a sizzling hot alpha male!

104. Lara: Book One of the World of the Hetar - Bertrice Small

Lara is a rare beauty. Because of that beauty, she is sold by her family so that her father might try his hand to improve his life and that of his family’s. Lara does this willingly, putting duty over personal desires. And so she is sold, and traded to the Forest Lords - a brutish people who want to use her for breeding, believing that her half-faerie blood can restore them to their former glory. Although she is very poorly used by these men, they do show her some kindnesses. But when she befriends a giant, she escapes. Lara has many adventures, learning things about her own magic, the magic of the world Hetar around her, and something of her own destiny. Her many lovers each change her in their own way and she learns of more than duty and honor, but of love as well.

I have to admit, I’m not sure I liked this book. Odd, how it is categorized as romance, when I would put it straight into the fantasy section. First off, Lara is sold into slavery and raped - okay so this happens in lots of romance novels, but I’ve never read one where the woman was raped by more than one person or that she didn’t fall in love with him at the end. Also, how often do you read a romance novel where the heroine sleeps with more than one man? I think I would have liked it better just knowing that it was fantasy and not having gone into in believing it was going to be a romance. My last complaint is the word used to describe the male body part, “man-root”. She uses it over and over again. This is the first Bertrice Small book that I’ve read. I really hope she gets over that!

That said, I did like certain aspects of this book and I do believe that at some point I will read the sequels to find out what happened to Lara and where her destiny truly led her. There was great character development and world building in this story, and I was fascinated by several of the characters. So I suppose that I did like this book, it just really wasn’t what I was expecting.

105. Devil May Cry - Sherrilyn Kenyon

Sin was once a Sumerian fertility god, until the Greek goddess Artemis stole his godhood. Still immortal, Sin has two missions in life - find the ancient Sumerian artifacts that will prevent the really bad demons from destroying the world, and kill Artemis (and sometimes even he’s not sure which is his highest priority).

But Artemis still fears Sin and so commands Acheron to kill him, but as we all know, Ash doesn’t take orders from Artie. And so she sends her handmaiden, Katra, to destroy him. Kat finds Sin and witnesses him desecrating human bodies. Misunderstanding his motivations in doing so she is even more determined to kill him. Meanwhile, Sin mistakes Kat for Artemis and takes her captive.

After much explanation, and some laugh out loud dialogue, Kat and Sin team up to save the world. And this being what it is, they fall in love in the process. But more revelations are on the way, and some of them were a long time coming.

Another great installment in the Dark-Hunter series that has made Kenyon a bestselling author (and for good reason). Sin is my favorite kind of tortured hero, one seeking revenge and instead finds redemption. Kat is a reoccurring character in the overall storyline (“Kiss of the Night”, and “The Dream-Hunter”), it was nice that she finally got a story and a hero of her own. I love the occasional glimpses we get into other mythologies in this series, that it isn’t solely based on Greek and the more obscure/fabricated Atlantean gods.

We also get a great revelation about Acheron - just in time to entice us for his own book, which is coming out on August 4, 2008! I think I might die!

106. Here, There Be Dragons - James A. Owen

Wow, I really enjoyed this YA fantasy novel. It reminded me of LOTR, the Voyage of the Dawn Treader, and King Arthur with some great fantasy twists of its own.

It all starts one night when a boy learns his tutor has been murdered and has entrusted him with the care of the Geographica Imaginarium, the atlas that shows maps of all lands, both real and imaginary. John and his friends are taken aboard a ship and sail off to the imaginary, but real lands depicted in the book in an effort to save them and take back those that have been shadowed.

A fantastic adventure story with unusual islands, mysterious characters, and an epic battle for the fate of the world and the soul of a boy. I loved it!
And when it's all said and done, the revelation at the end is a fantastic touch. I'm really excited to read the sequel, Search for the Red Dragon, coming out in January 08.

107. Greywalker - Kat Richardson

I wasn't a huge fan of this book. Not to say that I won't read the sequels, but I just wasn't blown away.

She has an interesting premise, about a P.I. who died for a few minutes and was brought back. Now she can see and walk around in "The Grey", sort of an ether of otherness...ghosts and monsters and such.

But something just didn't sit well with me. The story didn't really explain much - which I'm sure she'll expand on in later books. Everything came together and connected at the end, which is good. But for some reason I just wasn't that impressed. Still not sure why.

108. Simply Irresistible - Rachel Gibson

Georgeanne Howard has dyslexia, but when she was a girl a doctor told her grandmother that she was retarded and she would be better off in a charm school than mainstream schooling. So as an adult she’s a beauty who can wrap men around her little finger. However, the day of her wedding to a millionaire (many years her senior) she can’t go through with it.

John Kowalsky is a hockey star attending the wedding of his team’s owner when a woman in - what he thinks is a bridesmaid’s - dress asked him for a ride. Little did he know it was his boss’s bride and she was running away from the wedding. One thing leads to another that night, and the next morning he dumps her off at an airport without a second glance.

Seven years later, Georgeanne has used other skills she learned during her unorthodox education to help a failing catering business back into the black. Unbelievably John attends a banquet catered by her company and their paths cross for the first time since that fateful night. For Georgeanne never told John that their daughter was conceived that night. John demands that he be a part of Lexie’s life, and in the course of getting to know his daughter, he gets to know her mother as well.

A nice contemporary romance about life and loss, and the healing that can be found with another person. I enjoyed it as well because it shows what you really can overcome, even when you think the situation is hopeless. Georgeanne learns to be self-sufficient, confident, and to overcome her handicap. John learns that you can fix the mistakes of the past, that sometimes a second chance is the greatest thing, and that one person’s opinion does not define who you are. Lexie learns that when Mommy won’t buy you a puppy…ask Daddy.

109. Nightsong: The Legend of Orpheus and Eurydice - Michael Cadnum

A short retelling of the Greek myth. Not exceedingly enlightening, but not bad. Probably be good for a first exposure.

110. The Looking Glass Wars - Frank Beddor
reread

I really enjoyed this alternative version of Alice in Wonderland. If anything this makes quite a bit more sense than the original. The Lewis Carroll book was a bit random without a lot of cohesiveness.

However, this version tells how Alice was actually Princess Alyss Heart of Wonderland and how she fell into our world - instead of the other way around.

She came to our world to escape her evil Aunt Redd who had murdered her parents and taken over Wonderland. She grew up in our world, and finally accepted the fact that Wonderland had just been a figment of her imagination when Hatter Madigan (the mad hatter), captain of the Queen's bodyguard finds her and takes her back to Wonderland to battle Redd for the crown.

The book has a cool concept about the power of Imagination (White and Black), that it's what gives the ruling family their authority. It was a very well thought out and researched book (trilogy). Took many details from the original and suited them to a new plot. Very Imaginative (excuse the pun).

Definitely liked this book. Off to read the sequel.

May we be expecting a review of Greywalker? I'd be curious to read it.

I know, I know...I'm so behind on my reviews again. But I'll get to it eventually. For now I'll tell you that Greywalker was...okay.

111. The Sinful Nights of a Nobleman - Jillian Hunter

Years ago, Devon Boscastle did a most ungentlemanly thing - he stood Miss Jocelyn Lydbury up. He simply forgot to show up at the dinner he was invited to, not that he was that interested in timid Jocelyn anyway being much happier as a young rake. But when they both arrive at the same notorious weekend-long party, he rethinks his opinion about Jocelyn.

She, however, still hurt that he would do such a thing is more than happy to spend time with her long-time admirer and prospective fiancée. In fact, thinking that he is ready to propose she agrees to a midnight meeting with a “secret admirer”. Unknowingly, Devon accepts his own invitation hoping to meet for a night of passion with a notorious widow and meets up with Jocelyn instead. You can imagine where things went from there.

But something more sinister is at work than just matchmaking, as someone tries to frame Devon for murder and puts Jocelyn in danger. The true nature of a rake is reveled, and we find a hero behind Devon’s roguish countenance. *sigh*

The fifth novel in the Boscastle family series (but can be read as a standalone), I enjoyed this fluffy historical romance, for its humor, its love scenes, and because I love always the rogues! I look forward to backtracking and reading about the rest of this interesting family.

I'm not going to count these towards my total...but for the last 8 months or so I've been listening to audio books at my desk (on my iPod) or on long car rides so I thought I'd throw them on here for posterity. Most of them are books that I've already read, but that I find entertaining. Some are/will be me listening to things that are interesting, but that I don't want to take the time away from my "fun" reading to actually read the book.

P.S. The library is a great place to find audio books!

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

The HP books are fabulous on audio, the reader Jim Dale is wonderful and almost as entertaining as the story itself! This is how I reread the books (again) in preparation for book 7 - which I also have and will listen to in the future.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

There might be more of them that I can't remember....

Currently listening to:
Sailing the Wine-Dark Sea: Why the Greeks Matter
A Wrinkle in Time

112. Once a Thief - Suzann Ledbetter

113. Spying in High Heels - Gemma Halliday

114. Killer in High Heels - Gemma Halliday

115. Flirting with Danger - Suzanne Enoch

Sexy Cat Burglar + Gorgeous British Billionaire = Explosive Sparks (Literally)

Samantha Jellicoe is a world-class art thief, who has never been caught in the act. Until the night she tries to “lift” an ancient stone tablet from the Florida mansion of British billionaire, Richard Addison. Before she can react the room blows up and she’s wanted for murder.

Now her only option is to team up with Rick, and find the other person who broke in that night and tried to kill them. In the meantime, she must guard her heart by telling herself that he is nothing more than a causal partner (in more ways than one) and that everyone has an angle (even if she can’t figure his out), while trying to keep her hands cuff-free (even if she could pick the lock).

But Rick finds himself attracted to more than just her lithe body, but also her quick wit, intelligence, and sense of humor. He’s captivated by the thrill of this thief, who should be behind bars (for larceny, but he doesn’t believe for murder), whilst trying to keep her out of prison and in his bed (and his life). But how do you convince a woman conditioned to depend no one but herself that she needs you, almost as much as you need her?

I love this book! It reminds me of the In Death series by J.D. Robb. The dynamic between the characters really is explosive and funny, the action scenes are realistic and heart-pounding, the love scenes are steamy and pulse-racing (are we seeing a theme here). The mystery was just a tad predictable, but not the layers of it. Definitely one for the keeper shelf - a must read and re-read. And the best part is….there are sequels!!

116. The Becoming - Jeanne C. Stein

117. Again the Magic - Lisa Kleypas

The young lady and the servant boy fall in love, a spectacular story of cross culture/class romance. Aline Marsden is of an aristocratic English family; John McKenna came to work for her family at a very young age. Raised in the same house, they were the best of friends - and fell in love. When her father found out, he threatened to destroy McKenna forever, so Aline must pretend she doesn’t love him and sends him away - breaking her own heart forever, along with his.

A dozen years later, McKenna has made his fortune in America and returns for his revenge on the woman who - he thought - so carelessly tossed him aside. However, he finds out that she has never married, and that his feelings for her haven’t changed - but he remains cold toward her, even when he’s showing her the pleasures she gave up. But she has a secret, something that keeps her from telling him the truth and falling back into his arms.

This was a beautiful story. The first seventy or so pages are of Aline and McKenna in their late teens, and their love for each other. A different angle than normally taken in romances, an earlier age of exploration and discovery - both sexually and emotionally - everything’s more at that age. Made me nostalgic for those first loves that you know you’ll never forget. Then their reunion was that much more poignant when they find each other again. Most romances don’t have that long period of separation, the heartbreak of loss, and the finding again. I love the way she describes the bond between the hero and heroine - very star-crossed lovers/ soul mates.

Then the great thing about this book was there was a secondary romance parallel to the main one. Aline’s sister and McKenna business partner, find love and healing with each other through the course of the book. I suppose it could have been flushed out better as a novella or even a full novel, but I thought it fit perfectly within this story.

Kleypas has touched on some great social issues in this fabulous novel - class divisions, death, tragedy, and alcoholism. My favorite of hers so far, definitely a reread!

118. Seeing Redd - Frank Beddor

119. Don't Look Down - Suzanne Enoch

The Dynamic Duo is back! No, not Batman and Robin - Rick and Sam! And trust me, they’re better…

Yes, the British billionaire and the “retired” art thief are still together…for now. But only if he stops sticking his nose into her business.

But when the first client of Samantha’s new security business is murdered, she’s determined to find his killer - now that’s what I call customer service! And Rick’s determined to help. But between the wealthy snobs in the elite social circles of Palm Beach, Florida, the machinations of Rick’s ex-wife to hone in on Sam’s territory (both romantic and business), and the unwanted attentions of a possible murderer…this pair is finding out that being legit might just be more dangerous than breaking the law.

Fabulous sequel to Flirting with Danger. I love a series that continues to develop the relationships of the main characters over the course of more than one book. It really allows the characters to grow and realistically work through problems. After all, life doesn’t end at “I Love You”, neither does the sex. *wink* I hope this series doesn’t end either!

120. The Mistress of Trevelyan - Jennifer St. Giles

121. Billionaires Prefer Blondes - Suzanne Enoch

Rick Loves Sam…Act III

Settling down into the legitimate world of security is turning out to be harder than, adrenaline junkie and former thief, Samantha Jellicoe thought. Especially since her dead father is back from the grave and pulling her into a major heist, against her will. But don’t worry, her own personal (and sometimes unwanted) knighting-in-shining armor, British billionaire Rick Addison, will risk life - and reputation - to keep her out of jail, and more importantly, out of her own grave.

I love it when law-abiding Rick gets in on the criminal action. It shows what he’s willing to do for love. It’s even cuter when Sam lets him in, because she thinks having him along is probably more dangerous than her going alone, but she risks her own freedom to soothe his fears. I think she underestimates the power of a guy in love (at least the kind in romance novels) - especially one who is used to getting what he wants. And what he wants is her.

This series hasn’t let me down yet, and it keeps getting better. Now, we find relationships unfolding, not only between the hero and heroine, but also with those around them as well. Enoch is really fleshing out the characters as we see into their pasts and learn some of the motivation behind their actions and psyches. And of course, she keeps the romance steamy!

122. Ex Libris: Confessions of a Common Reader - Anne Fadiman

123. Houston, We Have a Problem - Erin McCarthy

124. Mr. Impossible - Loretta Chase

125. The Pirate Lord - Sabrina Jeffries

126. The Secret Passion of Simon Blackwell - Samantha James

I know I've been total behind with reviewing my books lately. I swear I'll get around to it soon! I've just done more reading than writing lately.

I'm the same way too. I keep thinking 'after this one, I'll go back and catch up reviews a bit', but then I get into my next book. . .

127. The Penelopiad - Margaret Atwood

128. Dead End Dating - Kimberley Raye

129. Surviving Demon Island - Jaci Burton

Thrill-seeking female action-movie star, Gina Bliss, needs a new challenge, so when she’s offered a spot on a new very secretive reality show hunting “demons” on a deserted island, she jumps at the chance. But this reality show turns out to be more “real” than everyone expected…and so is the danger.

Derek Marks knows what’s really going on, both on the island and in the world. Immersed in the never-ending fight against the forces of evil (I know that sounds so clichéd), he still finds the time to break through the walls of Gina’s celebrity persona and emotional walls - caused by the disappearance of her mother when she was a child. But even an expert military man like him is in for the surprise of his life

I really enjoyed this steamy, action-packed, paranormal romance. My first experience with Jaci Burton has me looking forward to many sequels. I don’t want to go into too much detail and ruin the plot twists, but I was entertained by both the characterizations of the good guys and the bad ones, and the interesting concept of the series (yes, there is a sequel). Burton has created strong characters with a good measure of depth - pasts, emotions, realistic reactions - well-done action scenes, plot surprises, and some smokin’ sexual tension. Derek is another ultimate alpha male with a tortured past (the best kind)! And Gina gives him a run for his money…and kicks his ass a time or two. I like Gina, a female who doesn’t just have a strong personality but is strong physically as well. You don’t see that as often and I enjoyed it immensely.

130. The Salamander Spell - E.D. Baker

Prequel to The Frog Princess about when her Aunt Grassina was a girl and how she became the Green Witch and met Haywood.

131. Lord Perfect - Loretta Chase

>117 Ilithyia: just wanted to say I really liked your review for this book. I felt much the same way myself about it.

132. Danelaw - Susan Squires

133. Dark Possession - Christine Feehan

134. Divine Fire - Melanie Jackson

Brice Ashton is a noted historian, writing detailed biographies of famous dead people almost as if she had intimate knowledge of their thoughts and feelings. But her personal obsession and most passionate admiration has always been for Lord Byron, whose poetic words helped her through the death of her family and her subsequent depression.

Damien Ruthven is a notorious book critic with high literary standards and cutting criticism. But while reading Brice’s detailed story of the life of Lord Byron, he is astounded by her thorough research and amazing insight into Byron’s character. However, he decides to contact this intriguing woman to clarify an error in her manuscript, and of course he would know - because 150 years ago, he was Lord Byron.

I was quite surprised by this gothic tale of an immortal (or at least long-lived) being who was not a vampire, werewolf, or other supernatural creature in a genre that is overflowing with them - not that I usually mind. But this story of Byron’s search to cure his epilepsy and the side-effects of the treatments was intriguing (a little late-night horror movie-ish, but interesting). It was fun to read about an historical figure that I didn’t have much prior knowledge about and Jackson’s take on what he might be like today and the one woman in hundreds of years that finally claims his heart.

135. Wyvernhail - Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

The lastest book in this series, Hai is a "mongrel" - half cobra, half falcon - and her hybrid nature makes her magic very unstable. She sees possible futures all leading to the destruction of Wyvern's Court. But even she cannot foresee the true reality of what is to come.

I still like these books, very very quick reads. Not sure which one is my favorite...but I love the mythology and ancestry behind them.

136. Code Name: Baby - Christina Skye

Kit O’Halloran is a dog trainer, and we’re not talking obedience school but highly trained military and police service dogs that are smarter than some people I’ve met, and special in ways that even Kit doesn’t know.

Wolfe Houston is part of a top-secret government project to alter the mental abilities of its elite warriors. When one of them escapes, Wolfe is sent to protect the one thing that they’re sure the rogue is after - Kit and her dogs.

Now Wolfe is back to where it all began, watching over his best friend’s little sister - a woman who grew up to be an intelligent, brave, and beautiful woman while he was away. And Kit is stuck trying to resist the man she’s loved since she was twelve years old. But the threat of danger and the lure of temptation is too much, and maybe it’s up to these smart pups to save the day!

This was a fun military romance. I don’t want to go so far as to say it was paranormal, but the hero and the villain did have advance mental powers - a psi talent. The romance was cute, the lines were funny, and I adored Ishmael “Izzy” Teague - a techy, sexy, reoccurring character of Skye’s - who was so much more than just a supporting character. The dogs were also characters in their own right which gave it that extra touch. This was a quick read with a happy ending - what more can you ask for!

137. My Spy - Christina Skye

Annie O’Toole and Sam McKade spent two perfect weeks together, and then they said good-bye - he sailed away while she watched from the shore. The farewell was heartfelt but tearless as they were both too strong to admit, even to themselves, just how much they cared - expecting never to see one anther again.

But that’s not the nature of these stories (thank goodness), we know that it’s only a matter of time before star-crossed lovers meet again, and always under unexpected circumstances. Sam becomes a national hero, risking his life to save a busload of schoolchildren and being gravely wounded in the process. Unbeknownst to him, the entire episode is aired live on television and Annie sees the whole thing.

Now the Navy needs a top secret safe house for Sam to recover in, and Annie and her resort have a stellar reputation for just that. She agrees, but is stunned to learn that not only is Sam physically injured but he has amnesia. He remembers nothing about her or the time they shared - or the terrible danger he’s brought with him…

I love Skye’s alpha male military heroes, and this tale of two people falling in love all over again is touching and makes me think that second chances just might exist (I know, I need to keep reminding myself that this is fiction)…Also I was excited about the reappearance of Ishmael “Izzy” Teague, the Denzel Washington look-alike and my favorite witty, high-tech, and hunky reoccurring character of Skye’s military novels. Eventually she’s going to have to get him a girl of his own!

Hi,
I see you got tired of posting reviews here! :-) I was reading over your list. I don't know if our reading is that compatible, but it was kind of fun seeing all you had to say. Well, not quite all - I got tired after a while. You really write a lot! Anyway, you've entered 141 books since March. Wow!
You know, it says right up at the top, in the "directions" for this group, that it's perfectly fair to add audio books, so do it without guilt! You could be doing anything during that time, but you choose a book. So, it's fair!
I thought about the 50-book challenge, but there's no way I could do it unless I dropped other stuff. Maybe 30. Maybe. But I do reviews for the books I read, so I guess that's good enough. I'm very impressed at how much you can get through!
Have a great time finishing up your list for the year!
:-)

138. A Lick of Frost - Laurell K. Hamilton

139. Alanna: The First Adventure - Tamora Pierce

>142 bibliojim: bibliojim, no I didn't really get tired of posting reviews, but I don't always have time to do it right away. But I try very hard to post the book after I've finished it - 1. so that I don't forget to, and 2. because for my own benefit I like to know when I finished it.
So eventually when I get bored at work, or get the motivation for it (which is my real problem), I write the reviews. You'll notice that the date I post and often a date I edit can be quite some time apart.

Also I do write a lot, I know. I also review books for an online used bookstore, so the longer reviews with a better summary are normally the ones that I wrote for that and just copied here (no sense writing it twice). I do enjoy writing down my thoughts, though...I wish I had been doing it for all these years, not just since I joined LT -even if I'm the only one who reads them!

140. Everlost - Neal Shusterman

141. The Hollow Kingdom - Clare B. Dunkle

142. In The Hands of the Goddess - Tamora Pierce

143. Woman Who Rides Like A Man - Tamora Pierce

144. Lioness Rampant - Tamora Pierce

145. Wild Magic - Tamora Pierce

146. Wolf-Speaker - Tamora Pierce

147. Creation in Death - J.D. Robb

148. (Not That You Asked): Rants, Exploits, and Obsessions) - Steve Almond

Read almost entirely between the hours of 12:45am and 6am late Friday night - early Saturday morning.

149. Emperor Mage - Tamora Pierce

150. Realm of the Gods - Tamora Pierce

151. At Large and At Small - Anne Fadiman

152. Cross My Heart - Carly Philips

153. Close Kin - Clare B. Dunkle

154. In The Coils of the Snake - Clare B. Dunkle

155. Kissing Sin -Keri Arthur

156. Darkfever - Karen Marie Moning

MacKayla Lane loved her life once. As a blonde, bronzed, Southern belle/part-time bartender, Mac’s only care in the world was replacing the cell phone she dropped in the pool. Then her older sister is brutally murdered in Ireland, and Mac discovers a cryptic and terrified message from Alina, delivered minutes before her death.

So, despite her parents’ pleas, Mac finds herself in Dublin, determined to convince the garda to reexamine her sister’s case or to find the killer herself. What she didn’t expect were the things her sister hadn’t told her. When she stumbles upon a bookstore and an ally - dangerous, mysterious, and stone cold sexy - Jericho Barrons educates her about her bloodline and the powers that go with it. Turns out, Mac is a sidhe-seer. She has the ability to see through faerie glamour to the truth of the fae underneath (and definitely doesn’t like what she sees) - and one of these fae killed her sister, probably for possessing that very same trait.

Now, to avenge her sister and protect herself, Mac must accept this massive shift in her reality, investigate very scary people, and search out ancient Fae relics. Oh, and she’ll have to learn to kick ass and not to trust anyone - not even the delectable Jericho Barrons, who has his own motivations for keeping Mac alive.

I really enjoyed the first book in this new series by Moning. Mac is such a funny character and Barrons is a total mystery. Unlike the previous series, this one will not present a new couple every book, but will be the ongoing story of Mac’s battle against the Fae. Ultimately, Moning says, this will still be a romance, but she’s taking her time to develop it. Personally, I love the idea, there’s more suspense that way, the characters are more duplicitous, and I’m sitting here just hoping the good guys win in the end (of course, I’m still trying to figure out who the good guys are). I can’t wait for more! But I think the year between installments is going to drive me nuts! But knowing how great Karen Marie Moning always is, it’ll be worth it. Off now, to read BloodFever.

157. Shadows in the Darkness - Elaine Cunningham

158. P.S. I Love You - Cecelia Ahern

159. Not Quite A Lady - Loretta Chase

160. A Rogue in a Kilt - Sandy Blair

161. A Thief in a Kilt - Sandy Blair

Kate Templeton is a friend and tutor to James Stewart, the rightful King of Scotland, while the boy is being held hostage by the English. But Kate’s secret is that she also has visions, and when she sees death and destruction for the Scottish people, she travels north to a strange land to try to save an embattled people.

Ian McKay is known as the Thief of Hearts, one smile and any woman swoons in his presence. But he is also an agent of James’ uncle, traveling to the various holdings, gathering information on who is loyal and willing to sacrifice for the return of their king, and who is gathering power for their own purposes. But for someone who seeks out duplicitous behavior for a living, he was stunned to find out that the sensual and irresistible Kate Templeton has been lying about herself and her own mission. Now he must pursue her on her way back to England to thwart the danger that she poses to his beloved country and to his own heart.

This was a great book, the antics between Ian and Kate were laugh out loud funny and the end was heart wrenching - but worth it! There are only so many times, when reviewing books, that you can talk about character development and plot twists, but this one has both - with a sexy guy (I adored Ian), a quirky girl, a few good love scenes, and an interesting psychic power thrown in. I loved it!

162. My Wicked Highlander - Jen Holling

During a turbulent time in Scotland, full of witch hunts and burnings, Alan MacDonell sent his three beautiful and “gifted” daughters away for safekeeping. A dozen years later, he sends a trusted friend to retrieve his eldest daughter from England.

Sir Philip Kilpatrick is immediately intrigued by but wary of the enigmatic Isobel MacDonell, but his mission is not to be intrigued - he is only to escort her to the safety of her father’s keep. But the more time spent together, the more fascinated they are by each other; and the more Philip is upset by Isobel’s impending marriage - especially to an earl he neither respects nor trusts.

To complicate matters further, as Philip continues to see overwhelming evidence of Isobel’s power, he becomes hopeful that she may be able to help him right an old wrong. When they are diverted from their course, opportunity arises for them to learn to trust one another with their secrets and perhaps even their hearts.

This was a nice medieval Scottish romance with a psychic twist. Philip is the classic “knight in shining armor” hero (except in a kilt), though he may need a rescuer of his own at some point, with a couple of entertaining sidekicks. Isobel is a willful and heartwarming damsel, who uses her powers to help people despite the danger to herself. Nothing epic here, but a good addition to the genre and I look forward to the sequels about her two sisters.

163. Samurai - Jason Hightman

164. Ranger's Apprentice: The Ruins of Gorlan -John Flanagan

165. The Golden Compass - Philip Pullman

166. The Thief - Megan Whalen Turner

167. Shadows in the Starlight - Elaine Cunningham

168.Ranger's Apprentice: The Burning Bridge - John Flanagan