I rarely read non-fiction but from time to time, a book comes along that speaks to me. I am a history buff, a History channel junkie and have a particular fondness for early American history. Liar, Temptress, Soldier Spy by Karen Abbot screamed read me, when I discovered it was about four woman undercover during the civil war.
I enjoyed Ghost Seer the first book in this new series by Robin D. Owens and was excited to dive into Ghost Layer. While Clare Cermak, the protagonist, made me a tad nervous, and it reeked of insta-love I was excited about the mystery, talking spirit dog and possibilities this series held. Unfortunately the character’s actions pulled me from the overall mystery and left me disillusioned.
Maplecroft the first in the Borden Dispatches by Cherie Priest offers a dark twist on the Lizzie Borden murders in Falls River Massachusetts. Priest offers answers to the age-old question, “Did Lizzie murder her parents with an axe and if so why?” Dark, creepy and superbly twisted the tale that on unfolds in Maplecroft will raise the hair on the back of your neck.
I love Patricia Briggs’ Mercy Thompson series. Since I rarely read novellas Shifting Shadows the complete collection her published short stories involving the Mercy Thompson world had me curious. Shifting Shadows is beautifully compiled, and all of the tales engaged me making this a total win for Briggs’ fans. I walked away with a smile and new books in my TBR pile.
I was already in love with the Throne of Glass series. From its main characters to the beautifully developed world that Sarah J. Mass created. Heir of Fire brought this story to a completely new level. Young adult meets high fantasy with wonderful new characters, an amazing world that Maas brought to readers in high definition with a panoramic review. It was one hell of a ride. Brilliantly executed, and heart wrenching Heir of Fire solidified this series among my favorites.
