Nightlord: Sunset by Garon Whited

ABOUT THE BOOK

Sunset brought a hangover, a beautiful woman, and the thirst for... blood?

Eric didn't ask to be a vampire.

In fact, he didn't even believe in them. Then he meets a beautiful woman, wakes up with a hangover, and bites his tongue with his own fangs.

Which pretty much settles the question.

Now he's trying to hold down his day job while learning the rules of the Undead -- the most important being that bloodthirsty urges and predatory instincts are a real bitch.

Upside; Eric has the beautiful Sasha to teach him the ropes, including the magic he'll need to survive.

Downside; it turns out being a vampire is the least of his problems.

When Sasha is killed, Eric is thrust into an alternate world in his quest to avenge her death. There he becomes a Nightlord, fights a dragon with the help of his magical steed, Bronze, and upchucks a sword named Firebrand.

But things get really interesting when Eric finally finds Tobias, head of the Church of Light. Soon Eric finds himself at the center of an epic battle at the literal edge of the world in a fight to keep a terrible darkness at bay.

"When you fall off the Edge of the World into hordes of demonic THINGS from the Outer Darkness, you really start to wonder about your life choices."

--Eric, part-time undead, expectant father, and short-term astronaut.

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REVIEW

Eric's tale starts after meeting a beautiful woman in a bar and having a one-night stand. Sasha quickly confesses to Eric that he is the reincarnation of her lost love, and she has gifted him with the power of a Nightlord. Sasha's death leads Eric to track down her assassins. Eric locates their stronghold in a far-off land and jumps through a portal to exact justice for her death.

Eric apprises the reader of the world around him through his journal writings. Eric is entertaining. He is a bit self-deprecating while being witty. I often found myself laughing aloud at his quips. We see the unfamiliar world through his modern eyes, which helped me connect to it.

Eric provides insights into his experiences, detail on occurrences such as how he feeds and how his magic spells develop. I found these descriptions comprehensive and fascinating. Eric explains his changes on a biological level. He attempts to make sense of it rather than explaining it away as the supernatural. He contemplates things like his aversion to the water brought on by his metamorphosis or why his species may live a nocturnal existence. I appreciate the attempt to find the logical evolutionary cause of his inherent abilities. The mythos of a vampire is a common one, but the uniqueness in Nightlord is an engaging change.

The journey Eric has is a long and epic one. The reader follows while he learns a new language, meets the barons of many territories, and becomes a skilled magic and weapon user. During this, Eric gains loyal companions by being kind to commoners, freeing slaves, and battling among great knights. At times I found his explorations to be a bit too extensive. I stopped the story repeatedly in frustration feeling nothing of import was happening. Then at the culmination of his tale, the story abruptly ends. I understand the idea of a multi-book chronicle. But without a satisfying climactic ending, the cliffhanger felt like a ploy to pick up the subsequent book. Due to that, I am uncertain about moving forward with this series. I am eager to see what adventures lie ahead. However, I do not know if I can handle another story with more lengthy character interactions than plot resolutions. 

Pyromancist by Charmaine Pauls

ABOUT THE BOOK

A DARK PARANORMAL ROMANCE

Fifty houses have been burned to the ground in a fisherman’s village in France. Who would do such a thing? Why target the quiet little village? The police say it’s arson, but their forensic scientists can’t find the cause. If Clelia isn’t the guilty party, then why did the fires start at the same time as her sleepwalking? Why is she dreaming about Joss, her secret childhood crush who abandoned their village nine years earlier? She doesn’t know why Joss is coming for her in her nightmare. All she knows is that she has to run. As fast as she can.

(Each book in the 7 Forbidden Arts series reads as a standalone, but there’s also a series arc.)

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REVIEW

Paranormal romances are what I most enjoy reading so, discovering one of my favorite authors had a series in this genre was good news indeed.  Simply put, I loved Pyromancist by Charmaine Pauls and cannot wait to continue with more from the Forbidden Arts books.

As always, Charmaine Pauls knows how to write a fantastic romance.  Joss has just come back to the small community where he and Clelia grew up.  Clelia always carried a torch for Joss and, their reunion proves to the catalyst that changes their lives forever.

Joss has deep emotional scars from childhood.  As much as his adult life has come together, he cannot shake it.  Attempting to latch onto Clelia and do right by her is his goal, but does not always go as planned. His journey is a complicated and heartfelt one.  I love the hero in Charmaine Pauls books.  They tend to be on the aggressive, possessive side and closed off emotionally, but they always find a way to openly love their heroine by the end of the story.  I think Joss is one of my favorites so far. 

Clelia has to come to terms with the fantasy of Joss from her teen years. Her long time unrequited love is very different from the actuality of their current adult situation.  To top it off, she is dealing with a pending threat to her life and a power she does not understand.  

The chemistry between the couple is off the charts.  They are sexy and passionate, and you cannot help but root for their happy ending.  Pyromancist is well worth a read.

The Annihilation Protocol by Michael Laurence

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Michael Laurence delivers The Annihilation Protocol, the follow-up to The Extinction Agenda, in a series described as “Jack Reacher falling into a plot written by Dan Brown” (James Rollins, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Crucible).

For centuries, a mysterious syndicate known as the Thirteen has staged a silent coup, infiltrating governments and manipulating the course of world events. It’s more powerful than any nation, deadlier than any army. The time has come for it to emerge from the shadows and claim the entire world as its own. And only FBI Special Agent James Mason and his longtime friends stand in its way.

After narrowly preventing a global pandemic, Mason and his team discover an even deadlier threat has already been set into motion. An unknown adversary has produced enough of a lethal nerve gas to wipe every major city off the face of the world, and their only clue to finding it lies in a cryptic message written in the blood of a man found entombed behind a concrete wall. It isn’t until another victim appears—right in the heart of Central Park—that Mason realizes the murders are personal in nature, and figuring out the connection between them is the key to averting catastrophe.

Eight million lives hang in the balance and their only chance of surviving lies in the hands of Mason, his old friends, and a new partner he’s not entirely sure he can trust. Can his team track down a sinister agent codenamed Scarecrow before toxic gas fills the streets of New York City, or will the true power pulling the strings from behind the scenes—the Thirteen—succeed in enacting its genocidal agenda?

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REVIEW

The Annihilation Protocol by Michael Lawrence is one thrilling ride.  You follow Mason and his team as they attempt to thwart the newest threat from the Thirteen.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book.  After Extinction Agenda, I was eager for Mason to deliver the justice that the Thirteen deserved.  If you have not read Extinction Agenda, I would highly suggest it.  Annihilation Protocol can stand alone, but the background found in the first book of the series provides motivation and solidifies relationships.  

The multiple mysteries of Annihilation Protocol keep the reader invested.  I was on the edge of my seat in several instances.  By the conclusion, I was excited by the prospect that I had not figured out the entire story midway.  The author does an excellent job of keeping you guessing.

One thing I will say is there is a ton of moving pieces going on in this story.  A lot of investigating.  A lot of exposition.  It is wonderful that we get all of the information relevant to the goings-on, but boy was it a lot.  I'll be honest I tuned out quite a few times. And you know what?  I still followed along.  Some people will appreciate the abundance of facts, but for me, it was a bit much.  Despite that, I would still recommend The Annihilation Protocol by Michael Laurence.

The Guardian by Donna Grant

ABOUT THE BOOK

Knowledge is power.

They live to protect. They live to fight for honor and justice. They live to love the women who have captured their souls. These are the Sons of Texas, from New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant.

As a double agent, Maks Petrov has been so many people, he doesn’t know who he is anymore. While he prefers to work alone, taking down an organization like the Saints requires some help—even if he loathes asking for it. Just one day in the company of a sexy, fearless, and brilliant information broker makes him realize what he’s been missing in life…and fantasizing about what he could have.

Eden Fontaine thought she knew the evils of the world until she was confronted with knowledge of the Saints and what they’ve done—and still could do. Lucky for her, she has Maks by her side, a trained operative who not only makes her feel safe and cared for but also makes her blood run hot. Eden’s never thought much about settling down, but Maks makes her crave a world without the Saints and the handsome guardian by her side for all eternity.

With the Saints upping their game, Maks and Eden have one shot at assembling the intelligence necessary to take down the evil organization for good. If they can, they may have a chance at the happily ever after they both deserve.

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REVIEW

The Guardian by Donna Grant is the first book I have read in the Sons of Texas series. Although I did not have the lead-up information, I never felt lost while reading The Guardian.  It can certainly serve as a standalone novel.  Maks is as spy on the run, who commissions help from Eden to uncover a secret government group who seem to be trying to take over the world.

The Guardian had me hooked right away.  The storyline balances action-based thrills with the downtime of computer research and Maks and Eden getting to know each other.  The scenarios never pause long enough to become stagnant, making it a well-rounded plot.  

The Suspense and romance make The Guardian well worth a read.  Even without the benefit of witnessing their past wrongs, watching the bad guy fall here was extremely satisfying.

Shatter the Earth by Karen Chance

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ironically for the time traveling, chief seer of the supernatural world, time has never been on Cassie Palmer’s side. There has always seemed to be too much to learn, too much to master, and never enough hours in a day. But the tables have now turned, and the fluctuating timelines of Earth and Faerie are diverging, slowing time in Faerie relative to Earth, and giving humans an advantage for the first time in their war with the fey. It is one they desperately need, for a literal war of the worlds is about to take place. To win, or even to survive, Cassie and her allies, the powerful vampire senator Mircea Basarab and the formidable war mage John Pritkin, will have to pull off their greatest feat yet. And find a way to become more than the sum of their parts.

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REVIEW

Shatter the Earth is the latest in the remarkable Cassie Palmer series by Karen Chance. I cannot state how much I genuinely enjoy these books. There is wry humor, non-stop action, and steamy romance. After ten full-length novels, various short stories, and spin-off books (see Dorina Basarab), I am extremely invested in the complex characters that drive these books. Vampires, Mages, Fae, Demons, and even mythological Gods weave into the intricate plot in unique ways. Every story consistently utilizes elements that genuinely surprise me, which I absolutely adore. In a genre that frequently possesses the same old same old, I can count on Cassie Palmer to not follow my expected path. When speaking to others about the joy in reading a great urban fantasy/paranormal romance, the Cassie Palmer books by Karen Chance are the first on my list of recommendations.

Random spoilery thoughts: My main comment here is holy crap, that Lover's Knot spell! That is most definitely an excellent pay off for them. I wait impatiently to see where this goes. And boy, I hope Dory does not hold too much of a grudge for how that last battle started. Thank you Karen Chance, for constantly surprising me. 

The Demon's Possession Shadow Quest Book 1 by Kiersten Fay

ABOUT THE BOOK

April 2020 edition. Re-edited, this second edition contains an extended ending.

A devilishly passionate tale of a fierce demon captain and the mysterious young princess he vows to protect. Their passion will ignite the stars.

As captain of the merchant ship Marada, Sebastian has been commissioned to deliver a curious parcel to a ruthless pirate named Ethanule. But when a bewitching young woman mysteriously appears on his ship, he finds it impossible to focus on the job...and to keep his hands off her.

Held captive most of her life, Analia makes a desperate bid for freedom and escapes onto a craft led by a fearsome demon who sparks her desire, but her secrets are more dangerous than she knows. If she is to maintain her freedom, she must gain Sebastian's trust while concealing her true nature.

The Demon's Possession is the first installment of the bestselling paranormal romance series, Shadow Quest.

INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR

Q - Tell us a little bit about your Shadow Quest series.

Shadow Quest is a unique mix of genres that incorporates paranormal romance, fantasy romance, and science fiction romance. My characters are based loosely in mythology with some kick-but mythical creatures such as demons, dragons, witches, and fey-like beings. Since they’re all from different planets, I suppose they’d be considered aliens.

Each book focuses on the relationship of the hero and heroine and the trust they must build with one another. The connection they form is a slow-burn at first, and then turns combustible. I play with the fated mates theme, but the conflict and mistrust keeps things interesting. Ultimately love wins out in the end, if they can survive the journey.

Q – What order should I read the books in?

Each book can be read in any order and the reader can still follow along, but for the full experience, I suggest the following sequence:

- The Demon's Possession

- The Demon Slave

- The Demon's Retribution

- Demon Untamed

Q - So, why should readers give these books a try?

Paranormal romance fans are ravenous, and my Shadow Quest series hits the spot. Readers have told me they have read The Demon's Possession several times over and still enjoy it. It’s a series that draws you in and makes you long for more.

Readers who enjoy witty romance, alpha males, and lots of action will want to take this epic journey.

Q - What inspired the world you created in The Demon's Possession, having it take place in space and different planets?

I’ve always been interested in scifi, fantasy, paranormal, and mythology. I thought about the kind of romance novels I enjoy reading and what I liked about them: the idea that there could be a supernatural world within our own, veiled from sight.

Then I thought, “What if all these creatures from lore were really from different planets?” After that, the world building came naturally.

Shadow Quest series ebook Categories

- Paranormal Romance Series

- Futuristic Romance

- Science Fiction Romance Series

- Scifi Romance

- Fantasy Romance Series

- Demons & Devils

- Demon Romance

- Romance With Alpha Males

- Witches & Wizards

- Myths & Legends

- Aliens

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REVIEW

What I enjoyed: Close to midway through the novel, the story took a turn I didn't fully anticipate. As I learned more about Analia's past, I discovered I genuinely wanted to follow her journey to the ultimate end. Therefore, I will be picking up the next installment (this is book one of the Shadow Quest series). 

Sebastian and Analia are charming enough. Sebastian, the demon captain of the Marada, is super sexy and very Alpha male. Analia starts out timid, and as her confidence grows, she becomes the emotional anchor Sebastian needs. 

All of this inevitably leads to what made the story less likable. The couple is a bit stereotypical. I honestly almost stopped reading it, although when the plot began to thicken, I was glad I didn't. 

Typically sci-fi is not my go-to, but The Demon's Possession was a nice diversion from my normal genre.

The Lasaran by Dianne Duvall Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

New York Times bestselling author Dianne Duvall brings readers the first novel in a thrilling new sci-fi romance series full of action, intrigue, humor, and happily-ever-afters. 

Taelon searches the galaxy for his younger sister, who mysteriously disappeared while on a diplomatic mission. When an ally reveals that she was seized and is being held prisoner on Earth, Taelon descends upon the blue planet, intent on freeing her and exacting vengeance. However, all does not go as planned. Before he can find her, Taelon is captured and becomes the subject of torturous experiments. 

For what feels like an eternity, all he knows is pain and fury… until a mind tentatively touches his own and a woman’s voice forever changes his world. 

After suffering tragic losses, Lisa is finally beginning to carve out a future for herself when chance sends her to the Anomalous Cognition Research Institute. What at first appears to be a benign organization seeking participants for a psychic study instead turns out to be a government facility harboring a much darker intent. Lisa discovers this too late and soon becomes the unwilling subject of a terrifying experiment. 

Just as fear and desperation threaten to consume her, a deep, compelling voice penetrates the looming insanity and lends her hope.Having seen only the worst of humanity, Taelon is shocked when Lisa risks everything to free him.

Together the two make their escape, and Taelon finds himself fascinated by the small human woman who—despite all she’s suffered—can still laugh and tease and lure smiles from him. Friendship swiftly grows between them as they work together to evade soldiers intent on capturing them and find themselves hunted by mystifying preternatural beings. 

Through it all, Lisa steadfastly remains by his side, stealing more of his heart each day while she helps him unravel the mystery of his sister’s fate. Can they find his sister before the hunters find them? If they survive their quest, will Taelon have to bid Lisa farewell… or can he coax her into leaving her planet and joining him for the adventure of a lifetime?

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REVIEW

The Lasaran by Dianne Duvall is a new series that takes place in her Immortal Guardian world. The Lasaran fits well into the current universe, and it generates an intriguing opposition that will seemingly affect both stories moving forward. 

The conflict is such that it draws the reader in immediately. I concluded this story in less than 24 hours. The leads are charming, brave, intelligent, and committed to doing the right thing. It was extremely easy to side with them through the various challenges in the story.

Simply put, this book is an excellent start to the Aldebarian Alliance series. If you enjoy sci-fi romantic thrillers, The Lasaran is a must-read. And if you have not read the Immortal Guardian series, a great deal of background information is present. Although it is unnecessary to enjoy The Lasaran, it will provide a more broad picture of what is going on in their universe.

Into the Fire: An Orphan X Novel by Gregg Hurwitz

ABOUT THE BOOK

The New York Times bestselling Orphan X returns - just when Evan Smoak thinks he's done, his deadliest job yet pulls him back Into The Fire...

Evan Smoak lives by his own code.

Once he was known as Orphan X. Trained as an off-the-books government assassin and spoken about only in whispers, Evan Smoak was one of the most talented – and most feared – men in the Program. But he broke free and reinvented himself as The Nowhere Man, a figure shrouded in mystery, known for helping the truly desperate.

If anyone is truly desperate, it’s Max Merriweather.

Max is at the end of his rope. His cousin has been brutally murdered, leaving Max an envelope that contains nothing but a mysterious key. However, someone really wants that key, badly enough that Max – and anyone he turns to – is in deadly danger. What seems like a simple job for The Nowhere Man turns out to be anything but. Behind every threat he takes out, a deadlier one emerges and Evan Smoak must put himself in greater danger than ever before as he heads once more Into The Fire.

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REVIEW

After five books, thrillers in the same vein of the Bourne series, I am fully involved in Evan Smoak's journey. His moral compass guides him to take up the mantel of the Nowhere Man, aiding those in danger with no recourse but to look beyond the law for justice. Evan desires to redeem his perceived wrongs. He endeavors to convince himself, after one more job, and he can embark on regular life. 

As the series moves forward, consequences escalate for Evan. Into the Fire is the most intense book yet. The level of conspiracy Evan encounters goes deep, and the mounting threats kept me on the edge of my seat. When this book concluded, I immediately wished for the next one. If crime thrillers are your thing, I enthusiastically recommend Into the Fire by Gregg Herwitz.

The God Game by Danny Tobey

ABOUT THE BOOK

You are invited!

COme inside and play with G.O.D.

Bring your friends!

It;’s fun!

But remember the rules. Win and ALL YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE.™ Lose, you die!

With those words, Charlie and his friends enter the G.O.D. Game, a video game run by underground hackers and controlled by a mysterious AI that believes it’s God. Through their phone-screens and high-tech glasses, the teens’ realities blur with a virtual world of creeping vines, smoldering torches, runes, glyphs, gods, and mythical creatures. When they accomplish a mission, the game rewards them with expensive tech, revenge on high-school tormentors, and cash flowing from ATMs. Slaying a hydra and drawing a bloody pentagram as payment to a Greek god seem harmless at first. Fun even.

But then the threatening messages start. Worship me. Obey me. Complete a mission, however cruel, or the game reveals their secrets and crushes their dreams. Tasks that seemed harmless at first take on deadly consequences. Mysterious packages show up at their homes. Shadowy figures start following them, appearing around corners, attacking them in parking garages. Who else is playing this game, and how far will they go to win?

And what of the game’s first promise: win, win big, lose, you die? Dying in a virtual world doesn’t really mean death in real life—does it?

As Charlie and his friends try to find a way out of the game, they realize they’ve been manipulated into a bigger web they can’t escape: an AI that learned its cruelty from watching us.

God is always watching, and He says when the game is done.

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REVIEW

What I liked: The God Game by Danny Tobey is an intense ride. I was completely enthralled and on the edge of my seat for the duration of the story. The God Game could serve as an effective cautionary tale. With anonymity so easy to achieve in today's digital age, it is too easy to distance ourselves from one another. Insults, small bits of trickery, why should we care if we don't have to confront our victims? The God Game grasps that and blows it up, presenting the players a huge lesson in morality. The pit in my stomach grew as the participants are drawn further into the game, and it is more clear what is at stake for the players. 

What I didn't like: Not much. I did become a bit aggravated with some of the player's choices. Most of it was trivial things, and in the end, many did get resolved. And I am still unsure of the ending, but it does leave room for more stories later. With more questions answered, I may feel better about it.

The plot feels similar to Ready Player One, meets War Games with a bit of Ex Machina thrown in for good measure. Quite the combo in today's society. The God Game could be good for anyone looking for a digital age thriller.

Lethal Nights A Brute Force Novel by Lora Leigh

ABOUT THE BOOK

#1 bestselling author Lora Leigh turns up the heat in her latest novel of high-stakes passion and persuasion featuring the men of Brute Force.

Ilya Dragonovich is no stranger to the dark side. As a safe-house owner for security agency Brute Force, Dragon knows that the battle line between good and evil runs through the heart of every man—and, sometimes, a beautiful woman…

Emma Jane Preston needs help. After her marriage crumbled, she believed she could get back to a normal, happy life. But now she needs the kind of protection that comes at a cost—one that only someone like Dragon can provide. But can Emma Jane trust this handsome, undercover operator to keep her safe when she is in danger of falling into the arms of the deeply seductive, fiery Dragon...and never letting go?

“Leigh’s books can scorch the ink off the page.”

—RT Book Reviews

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REVIEW

Ilya and Emma Jane experience a moment of attraction that they do not acknowledge. When Emma Jane's life is in danger, Ilya comes to ensure her safety. What follows is an entertaining, suspenseful, sexy romance. Ilya, as with all the males in the Brute Force series, is very Alpha. Emma Jane is well equipped to deal with his overprotective, demanding manner, and it never feels like Ilya is blatantly trying to control her. I enjoyed getting to know them throughout the conflict and as a couple.

Every Brute Force novel contains this curious undertone of the supernatural. Here it is represented in Ilya's dragon tattoo and how it relates to his heritage and his romance with Emma Jane. I enjoy this aspect of it. The author presents it without explanation, and it is up to the reader to decide how much validity to give to it. 

When the mood strikes me, I appreciate a sexy alpha male and his romance with a take no crap female. Lethal Nights is a worthy addition to the Brute Force saga.

The Extinction Agenda by Michael Laurence

ABOUT THE BOOK

An FBI agent fights to stop a conspiracy to unleash a deadly virus on the world in this propulsive, exhilarating new thriller.

The discovery of a deadly virus being smuggled across the border pits FBI Special Agent James Mason and his strike force against an unknown adversary hell-bent on humanity’s destruction. In a desperate effort to contain the pathogen, they launch a predawn raid, only to find that their enemy knows they’re coming…and it’s not about to be taken alive. An explosion rips through the building, killing the majority of Mason’s team, including his partner and mentor.

Tormented by guilt, Mason returns to his home division, but he can’t seem to let go of the tragedy. He remembers seeing something inside the building before it went up in flames, something that convinces him that not only is the virus still out there, it’s merely the first stage of an even more nefarious plan. Obsessed with unraveling the plot, he launches his own investigation and uncovers a shadow organization on the brink of enacting its genocidal agenda, one carried out by a sinister mass murderer who’s been photographed at the epicenter of seemingly every historical pandemic…without appearing to age. An evil man who attempts to derail Mason’s investigation by murdering his wife.

With the help of his longtime friends—Gunnar Backstrom, a corporate espionage gun-for-hire, and Ramses Donovan, a sin merchant of questionable morality—Mason’s hunt for his wife’s killer leads him from a dark union at the dawn of the twentieth century to a network of Nazi collaborators and a conspiracy against mankind more than a hundred years in the making. Fueled by anger and driven by the promise of vengeance, he must overcome a monster preparing to unleash his virulent wrath upon an unsuspecting world if he’s to have any hope of exposing a deep-state entity that’s rooted in every facet of our society, an entity known only as…The Thirteen.

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REVIEW

I enjoy conspiracy theories, and the best is when the villain's crime incorporates reason behind it. Extinction Agenda's intrigue contains feasible logic, and the players involved are far-reaching. It surprised me a couple of times the size of the syndicate at work, a few of the twists I did not anticipate. James Mason's quest kept me emotionally involved while the events unfolded around him. The group surrounding him was adept at what they were doing. 

Regrettably, the story did suffer from a bit too much bulk. There are so many players involved, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but massive amounts of sidebars and background tales started to weigh the book down for me. I stopped paying attention at times. I prefer a less is more approach, more action, and fewer backstories. I will admit, it took me a great deal of time to get into this story. I contemplated at one point stopping. About midway through the novel, I was gratified by not doing so. 

The Extinction Agenda by Michael Lawrence is the first in a series. I enjoyed reading this early copy enough that I will be checking out the next one.

Blood Truth (Black Dagger Legacy 4) by J.R. Ward

ABOUT THE BOOK

The #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Savior brings you the next sizzling and passionate paranormal romance in the Black Dagger Legacy series.

As a trainee in the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s program, Boone has triumphed as a soldier and now fights side by side with the Brothers. Following his sire’s unexpected death, he is taken off rotation against his protests—and he finds himself working with Butch O’Neal, former homicide cop, to catch a serial killer: Someone is targeting females of the species at a live action role play club. When the Brotherhood is called in to help, Boone insists on being a part of the effort—and the last thing he expects is to meet an enticing, mysterious female...who changes his life forever.

Ever since her sister was murdered at the club, Helaine has been committed to finding the killer, no matter the danger she faces. When she crosses paths with Boone, she doesn’t know whether to trust him or not—and then she has no choice. As she herself becomes a target, and someone close to the Brotherhood is identified as the prime suspect, the two must work to together to solve the mystery...before it’s too late. Will a madman come between the lovers or will true love and goodness triumph over a very mortal evil?

PURCHASE ON AMAZON

REVIEW

Part four of the Black Dagger Legacy books, Blood Truth, is the tale of the final trainee Boone. After an injury takes him out of the field, Boone works to solve a murder case. During the investigation, he meets Helaine and is instantly drawn to her, as she is to him. 

Boone and the rest of the trainee group for that matter, have escaped the glymera's aristocratic confines, which thrills me to no end. It appears the largest conflicts come from their old world, prejudice beliefs, and the next generation is rising above it. Boone struggles with this in his household, but Helaine supports him in coming to terms with it. The couple has great chemistry, and they meet at a time when they both require a change in their lives.

Although the core focus is not on the Brotherhood, they are still present throughout Boone's story. I enjoy that every legacy book assumes a minor pause from the main BDB story arc. I enjoy the trainees interacting with the Brothers away from the war. Blood Truth, for example, is predominantly a murder mystery. Butch puts his detective shoes on, and it is delightful to experience. I have a secret hope he can eventually go back to that full time. 

J.R.Ward's world of vampires is one of the best in the genre. These books possess a unique voice, are suspenseful and witty. I typically find little wrong when reading from the Black Dagger Brotherhood world. I did experience some minor annoyance during Blood Truth with the convenient wrap up of the murders and a lack of thorough explanation, but I can live with that. Everything else lives up to my expectations. 

First Grave on the Right by Darynda Jones

 ABOUT THE BOOK 

First Grave on the Right is the smashing, award-winning debut novel that introduces Charley Davidson: part-time private investigator and full-time Grim Reaper.

Charley sees dead people. That's right, she sees dead people. And it's her job to convince them to "go into the light." But when these very dead people have died under less than ideal circumstances (i.e., murder), sometimes they want Charley to bring the bad guys to justice. Complicating matters are the intensely hot dreams she's been having about an Entity who has been following her all her life...and it turns out he might not be dead after all. In fact, he might be something else entirely.

This is a thrilling debut novel from Darynda Jones, an exciting newcomer to the world of paranormal romantic suspense.

First Grave on the Right is the winner of the 2012 Rita Award for Best First Book.

 PURCHASE ON AMAZON 

 REVIEW 

I have found my new binge obsession. In First Grave on the Right by Darynda Jones Charlie sees dead people with a twist. She uses her gifts as a private investigator who also helps lost souls cross over. Charlie is intelligent and capable in the situations she finds herself in. She doesn't cringe in fear expecting rescue when she's in danger, which I love in a heroine. An appropriate amount of tension is present in the story, but Charlie knows how to handle dire circumstances. Nothing feels like it comes so easy it is without risk. The supernatural elements are unique and inventive, which kept me intrigued and guessing the entire time. Topping all of it off is Charlie's fantastic wit and sarcasm. I cannot wait to devour this entire series.

Corrupt by Penelope Douglas

 ABOUT THE BOOK 

From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Douglas comes a new dark romance...

Erika

I was told that dreams were our heart’s desires. My nightmares, however, became my obsession. 

His name is Michael Crist. 

My boyfriend’s older brother is like that scary movie that you peek through your hand to watch. He's handsome, strong, and completely terrifying. The star of his college’s basketball team and now gone pro, he’s more concerned with the dirt on his shoe than me. 

But I noticed him.

I saw him. I heard him. The things that he did, and the deeds that he hid…For years, I bit my nails, unable to look away. 

Now, I’ve graduated high school and moved on to college, but I haven’t stopped watching Michael. He’s bad, and the dirt I’ve seen isn’t content to stay in my head anymore. 

Because he’s finally noticed me. 

Michael

Her name is Erika Fane, but everyone calls her Rika.

My brother’s girlfriend grew up hanging around my house and is always at our dinner table. She looks down when I enter a room and stills when I am close. I can always feel the fear rolling off of her, and while I haven’t had her body, I know that I have her mind. That’s all I really want anyway. 

Until my brother leaves for the military, and I find Rika alone at college. 

In my city. 

Unprotected. 

The opportunity is too good to be true, as well as the timing. Because you see, three years ago she put a few of my high school friends in prison, and now they’re out. 

We’ve waited. We’ve been patient. And now every last one of her nightmares will come true. 

*Corrupt is a STANDALONE dark romance with no cliffhanger. It is suitable for ages 18+. 

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REVIEW

Exceedingly glad I decided to read this story.  Thank you Kindle Unlimited, this recommendation was an excellent one.  At the heart of Corrupt is a sizzling dark romance. The chemistry between Rika and Michael is off the charts, their relationship develops thoughtfully and never feels forced. A huge conflict exists between the couple (no spoilers, figuring that out is part of the crazy ride), one that began when they were young, which leads to some intense interludes, both physical and emotional. 

Also present is a suspenseful mystery that could rival other stories dealing solely in that genre. The author presents a life-changing event through a series of flashbacks. Slowly we gain insight into what puts the group at odds with one another. I did not see the twists coming, and it was intense at times. I could not put this book down. 

I will most definitely be checking out more titles by Penelope Douglas, starting with Hideaway which picks up some time after Corrupt. If you like a little darkness, suspense, and some intense sensuality with your romance, Corrupt may be a good fit. It certainly hit all my buttons.  All opinions are my own. I encourage readers to reach their own conclusions.

Out of the Dark by Gregg Hurwitz

 ABOUT THE BOOK 

"A shocking stunner in every way. The perfect thriller." —Robert Crais

When darkness closes in—he's your last, best hope. Evan Smoak returns in Gregg Hurwitz’s #1 international bestselling Orphan X series.

Taken from a group home at age twelve, Evan Smoak was raised and trained as part of the Orphan Program, an off-the-books operation designed to create deniable intelligence assets—i.e. assassins. Evan was Orphan X. He broke with the Program, using everything he learned to disappear and reinvent himself as the Nowhere Man, a man who helps the truly desperate when no one else can. But now Evan's past is catching up to him.

Someone at the very highest level of government has been trying to eliminate every trace of the Orphan Program by killing all the remaining Orphans and their trainers. After Evan's mentor and the only father he ever knew was killed, he decided to strike back. His target is the man who started the Program and who is now the most heavily guarded person in the world: the President of the United States.

But President Bennett knows that Orphan X is after him and, using weapons of his own, he's decided to counter-attack. Bennett activates the one man who has the skills and experience to track down and take out Orphan X—the first recruit of the Program, Orphan A.

With Evan devoting all his skills, resources, and intelligence to find a way through the layers of security that surround the President, suddenly he also has to protect himself against the deadliest of opponents. It's Orphan vs. Orphan with the future of the country—even the world—on the line.

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 REVIEW 

Out of the Dark is the latest in the Orphan X series, one that I have come to enjoy considerably. The Orphan series is not exactly a fresh idea: a boy is taken from foster care and trained to become a covert assassin for the government. What keeps me coming back is Evan's personal development as the stories continue. Evan craves emotional bonds with those around him he just doesn't know how to accomplish it. I have grown attached while watching Evan struggle to find meaning in his life. 

As the Nowhere Man, a mantle he takes up after going rogue, Evan has become a type of avenging angel. Whether he is protecting a young man from those who murdered his family, saving an abuse victim and her child from their abuser or going after those who threaten the remaining Orphans, Evan thinks well on his feet and excels at planning. He is formidable when adversarial, using both his brain and his physical training to master any situation. Although some circumstances require a suspension of disbelief, Evan's journey is worth the experience.

Random spoilery thoughts: I appreciated when Evan explained to his foes how he would defeat them, and then did exactly what he described. The boldness of the act was fun to witness.

Mia needs to find a way to deal with the sense Evan works outside of the law, or she needs to stay away from him. It does neither of them any good doing their back and forth.

I am most pleased that in the end, Evan prevailed with his smarts rather than his brute force.

I was granted a copy of this book by St. Martin's Press, through NetGalley, for my honest opinion.  I suggest all readers come to their own conclusions.

Consumed by J.R. Ward

Consumed by J.R. Ward was addicting from page one. We meet Anne and Danny with their fire crew when a call takes them to an abandoned warehouse fire. It is clear, in the first few pages, that Anne and Danny have a connection that goes beyond platonic colleagues. A bad choice on Anne's part puts her life in danger. Danny, rushing to her aide when ordered not to, is forced into extreme action to save her life, nearly losing his own. The several chapters between the beginning incident and Anne and Danny reuniting were fast-paced and incredibly addicting. I couldn't get through it fast enough.

Ten months after the accident, Anne begins work as a fire inspector. The loss she suffered due to the fire left her in a very dark place. She can no longer work at the firehouse, and she, to her irritation, continues to think about Danny. Meanwhile, Danny spirals out of control. Too much alcohol, too many one night stands, too many bad choices when battling fires; all this eventually drives a crew mate to contact Anne, with the hope she can help Danny become more stable. I was desperate for Anne and Danny to have their time together. Anne was fighting a losing battle with her feelings for Danny, and Danny needed a break from his anxiety. They needed each other to start emotionally healing from their accident.

Anne and Danny both fear admitting their feelings for each other, but for very different reasons. Anne wants to keep Danny from entering her life again. She has convinced herself the romantic feelings she has will fade but, the attraction is still prominent. A past trauma has left Anne distrusting of their emotional bond. She does not make things easy for Danny, and she is slow to open up to him. Danny knows Anne will run as soon as love is mentioned. He takes what she will give him, which amounts to a quick physical interlude. Nothing is new in this scenario, but I had become quite attached to the characters at this point. I sympathized with Danny and his desire to be with Anne.

Clues to a series of warehouse arson, that include the one she last fought in, lead Anne to a business tycoon who is untouchable. Something sketchy is happening, but Anne finds it difficult to prove. Anne pursues a lead, and after discovering its legitimacy, someone begins to terrorize her. Danny learns she is in danger and offers to watch over her. Anne brings down some defenses and agrees to let him stay. The intimacy Anne and Danny share, during this time, brings them closer to a sustainable relationship.

A woman from Danny's past soon comes between the couple. I found Anne's quick judgment of Danny predictable, not necessarily in a bad way, but her lack of trust in him did cause some frustration. I understand her lack of faith due to her past, and I know she did not have the benefit of hearing Danny's thoughts, but her decision to immediately see the worst did not sit well with me.

Following a hunch, Anne pursues her terrorist and nearly loses her life. Danny happens upon the scene and again, keeps Anne safe. I did not see the ending coming, which was a welcome surprise. The lovers, of course, have their resolutions, but the antagonist came out of nowhere.

It is clear this book is the start of a series.  Short prequel stories are available that I did not read, but it may be worth checking out to get a feel for the characters. I enjoyed Consumed by J.R. Ward and will be checking out the proceeding novels when they are released. I received this book from Gallery Books, through NetGalley, for my honest opinion. I encourage all readers to draw their own conclusions.

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