I Could Handle This Renegade Passion!

I have a love/hate relationship with novellas. On the love side, they are quick bites from an interesting course at a literary buffet. On the hate side, quick bites are just that - quick. One bite and they're done. Usually leaving me wanting more. Such is the case with Renegade Passion by Lisa Renee Jones. It's a quick look into the world of the Zodius that left me wanting more!

I always wonder why authors choose certain characters to star in novellas as opposed to full length novels because I usually end up wishing that the story was more fleshed out, longer. Once I enter the lives of characters I like, I want to spend a lot of time with them. Such is the case with Kel and Sonia. They are wonderful characters who could easily carry a longer story and I would have loved to learn more about them. Kel is one of those amazing super hunk heroes that you secretly (or maybe not so secretly) wish would come rescue you in your time of need - and stay for a little something special afterwards. He is strong, loyal, and vulnerable where his heart is concerned - what more could you want in a hero? And Sonia is the perfect foil for him. Loyal, supportive and forgiving. Together, they make an amazing couple and I really would have liked to spend a lot more time with them and read more about their story.

If I had one complaint about this book, it would be its brevity. Although I gobbled it up in one bite, I was left wishing there were more to it. I would have liked to get more into the action, back story and love affair between the characters, although I understand that is not the purpose of novellas (which is why I prefer novels). Despite that one minor flaw, I really did enjoy Renegade Passion and meeting all of the characters from previous books in the series. I just might have to check them out. And if the author ever decides to delve more into the story of Kel and Sonia, I'm there, too. All in all, an enjoyable read!

Book Release: The Taming of a Scottish Princess by Karen Hawkins

Do you like historical romance? Do you like stories with Scottish characters? Then you might want to check out the new release from Karen Hawkins. Isn't that cover gorgeous?

For an excerpt of the book, check out Karen's blog here.

Suffocate by S.R. Johannes: A Review

Blurb:

For centuries, the world outside the Biome has been unlivable. Today, marks the first time anyone will attempt to leave the suffocating ecosphere. Eria is not worried because her scientist father has successfully tested the new Bio-Suit many times. It's a celebratory day until something goes horribly wrong. In the midst of tragedy, Eria uncovers a deep conspiracy that affects the very air she breathes. 

If those responsible find out what she knows, they won't stop hunting her until she takes her last breath.


(From the author's website)

My Review:

I usually don't go for dystopia fiction. It just seems so depressing, all that apocalyptic end-of-the-world stuff, and that's just not to my taste. But, I've read and enjoyed this author's work before, so I decided to give Suffocate a try. I'm happy to say that I'm glad I did. Now I'm not claiming to be a dystopia convert, but I have to say that I did like this particular story. I think a part of it is that I like the author's work and she has a way of drawing the reader right into the story, but a good portion of it is the character of Eria.

I really adore Eria and I felt like I was right there with her, feeling what she felt - the excitement, the fear, everything. She is just a well fleshed out character and considering this is a novelette, that's a feat. And about that novelette thing - I both enjoyed and cursed it. Enjoyed the fact that I could gobble up this story in one sitting - and cursed that I did it. Now I have to wait for more. So unfair! I want to know what happens now.

For all you fans of sci fi, dystopia, and just good storytelling about a girl wondering what her place is in the world - even if that world is artificially created - this is a great little book for you. So give yourself a treat and check this one out. I promise you won't suffocate!

(Review copy provided by author)

Dark Kiss by Michelle Rowan: A Review

I don't do DANGEROUS.

Smart, über-careful, ordinary Samantha—that’s me. But I just couldn’t pass up a surprise kiss from my number-one unattainable crush. A kiss that did something to me...something strange. Now I feel hungry all the time, but not for food. It’s like part of me is missing—and I don’t know if I can get it back.

Then there’s Bishop. At first I thought he was just a street kid, but the secrets he’s keeping are as intense as his unearthly blue eyes. If he’s what I think he is, he may be the only one who can help me. But something terrifying is closing in, and the one chance Bishop and I have to stop it means losing everything I ever wanted and embracing the darkness inside me....

Nightwatchers: When angels and demons must work together, something beyond evil is rising...

My Review:

This was one of those paranormal stories that stick with you. Dark, sinister and thoroughly enthralling. I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to more from this author/series. I just liked everything about it. The characters were well fleshed out and engaging, the story was mesmerizing, and I was captivated from start to finish. I even regretted when I reached the end because then it was over - and I didn't want it to be!

 If you like your paranormals dark and edgy with smart characters to match, then you'll definitely want to check out the Dark Kiss. I'm so glad I did.