Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Heather Huffman's titles


Heather Huffman
Throwaway, Suddenly a Spy, and Ties that Bind

I read each of these books by Heather Huffman. A perfect example of ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ because I had no idea what these books was about or that there was some world issues to be brought up. I must commend the author for taking a stance to inform readers of the reality that slavery still exists – also known as human trafficking.

I was very glad that I read them in the order that they were listed on Barnes and Noble. I had no idea that the characters would be connected. (If you already read one in a different order, that’s ok; your understanding of the story does not depend on the order the books are written necessarily).

After reading one, I wasn’t sure if I would like the next book as much, but found myself getting swept up in the next story as well. I can say that I enjoyed each story equally. They are an easy, uncomplicated read, and very different stories that can easily stand together or alone. The characters were likeable. Each story had a great plot with suspense and a bit of romance.

You can check out her website to find out about her projects at http://www.heatherhuffman.net/. It looks like she has signed with a publisher, so we haven’t heard the last of her!

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Law of the Lycans


When I post information about books, know that I will do my best not to give the entire book away. Then there would be no point in other people reading them… and I would rather excite people to read rather than give someone the cliff notes version, and besides that would take too much time. ;)

The Mating, The Keeping, & The Finding - By Nicky Charles

The Law of the Lycans series was a nice surprise! I downloaded them free and had trouble putting the book down to let life go on. According to the Nicky Charles’ website, she is still writing and looking to publish more stories in the series so I am really looking forward to reading them.

The twist on the “people” in these stories: Werewolves. The Werewolves live in peace among the humans, because most humans think it is just a myth. But in actuality they work very hard at keeping their identity (hence the name of the 2nd book). Hunky men, mystery and action… my kind of read.

The great part of this series is that you really have to start at Book #1 to get all the information. Although each book switches main characters, the characterization of the characters begins to develop in the previous books.

The Mating
This was a fast passed book. The language through me off at the beginning since the verbs are the same for canines; (Mating, pups, pack, alpha, beta, etc.). But once I understood that they were not “human” there was no problem. This book is about Kane and Elise who had a politically arranged mating and end up caring deeply for each other. Besides dealing with bad werewolves and misunderstandings outside their relationship, they have to learn about each other.


The Keeping
This book fallows Kane’s ½ brother, Ryne’s, decision to move away from Washington and start his own pack.  The plots from The Mating carried over and so the whole werewolf world is worried about the reporter wandering around looking to interview Ryne. The question is if she is aware that werewolves exist.  There is a lot more information in this book about the background of werewolves and their laws.

The Finding
This book is about Byran’s search for Cassandra (who comes in at the very end of The Keeping). It turns out that some werewolves actually have royal blood, and the royal bunch have special abilities in addition to turning into a giant wolf. In this story Cassie has an interesting inner conflict because she doesn’t want to be a werewolf… of course no one can fight the inevitable – you are who you are. There is a good lesson – Be proud of who you are?
I personally enjoyed the first two books more than The Finding (but it was still a good story and worth reading!) I really hope Nicky Charles continues to offer her books. I am waiting for a new book soon…

Friday, October 14, 2011

Welcome to the My Bookshelf!


I am a huge fan of reading. When I get into a story, the world could pass by without my notice. I am really hoping that my love of reading rubs off on my kids (but not the ignoring the rest of the world ability). I have a bunch of books that I haven’t read yet and MANY that I like to reread over and over. I’m not involved in a book club, but wanted to add this page in case you wanted to hear about the books I’m reading or give me some suggestions.

I read them all. But I am mostly interested in fiction. Sci-fi, fantasy, mystery, historical… my only request is that it is well written and well thought out (I have been known to throw a book across the room if the end stinks – although since the eBook, that hasn’t been a danger).

I still prefer the feel of a physical book and magazine, BUT I LOVE MY NOOK! I have a ton of eBooks on it and it is much more practical to travel with my Nook rather than 4 thick, heavy novels. And if I forget to stash my Nook in my purse, then I have the app on my phone that I can read for a few minutes if I am waiting for school to let out or waiting at the DMV. I am a walking commercial. It is really funny that I end up advertising the advantages of an eReader whenever I am in public – there is always someone who wants to know if it’s worth it. YES!

Anyway, I want to take the opportunity to share my love of books here. Until I post …