Review: Dark Road to Darjeeling by Deanna Raybourn

Book Blurb: After eight idyllic months in the Mediterranean, Lady Julia Grey and her detective husband are ready to put their investigative talents to work once more. At the urging of Julia's eccentric family, they hurry to India to aid an old friend, the newly widowed Jane Cavendish. Living on the Cavendish tea plantation with the remnants of her husband's family, Jane is consumed with the impending birth of her child—and with discovering the truth about her husband's death. Was he murdered for his estate? And if he was, could Jane and her unborn child be next? 

     Amid the lush foothills of the Himalayas, dark deeds are buried and malicious thoughts flourish. The Brisbanes uncover secrets and scandal, illicit affairs and twisted legacies. In this remote and exotic place, exploration is perilous and discovery, deadly. The danger is palpable and, if they are not careful, Julia and Nicholas will not live to celebrate their first anniversary.

My Thoughts: A friend reads the Lady Grey (Heh, that name always makes me think of the tea, Earl Grey :D) series and had been talking it up so when the chance to review this book came up, I jumped at it. This is book four in the series. I then contacted my friend to ask whether I should hurriedly read the first three or if she thought I could get by without reading them. The final decision? I might be less confused if I read the first three but it should be doable. She was right. I think that if I had read the others first, maybe I could have better appreciated some of the nuances and the character growth but overall, I didn't find it to be a big problem. For the most part the book stands on it's own although Ms. Raybourn does a nice job of weaving in back information with a light touch.

     Despite my anticipation, or maybe because of it, the story didn't grab me right away. It's hard to say, I think it may have been because the initial story setup was relatively slow. Once we got into the meat of the book, I was more involved.

     We meet up with Lady Grey and her groom, Brisbane, on their honeymoon, which is interrupted by the arrival of her brother Plum and sister Portia. The story hops around a  bit here, jumping locations and times, before settling in at their final destination. We do see Brisbane and Julia have a disagreement early on about whether he will travel on with Julia and her siblings or catch up and it nicely showcases their relationship.

     Actually, that brings up something that I very much liked, and appreciated on Raybourn's part: the realism of Brisbane and Julia's relationship. I suspect I would really appreciate it if I had read the first three books but even so, it's well done. They disagree, they argue, they take care of each other, and like any newly married couple, they are still learning and still negotiating how things will work. Everything is not all sweetness and light just because they are now married. They love each other, they enjoy marital relations but they still have to adjust and make accommodations. There were times that I wanted to smack each of them but that just shows you how well  Ms Raybourn wrote the characters.

     I also liked that the story was set in India as that country has always enchanted me. We get glimpses into what life was like back then, both for the Indian people and the British settlers. It was interesting to me to see the attitudes that the Brits had to the natives, especially as it felt real.

     Of course, the meat of the story is the mystery and it's a doozy. Jane, Portia's old flame, is worried that her husband Freddy didn't die of natural causes but was murdered. Julia, Brisbane, Plum and Portia all get involved, to varying degrees, in the investigation. Julia and Brisbane alternately work together and against each other as they try to sort out their roles in their marriage and in Brisbane's professional business.

     I really enjoyed this part. There were many suspects, many red herrings, and I kept changing my mind about who was the guilty party or if there even was one. I was completely surprised by the resolution of mystery around Freddy's death but when I looked back, I could see it. It made sense. I didn't like however the amazing number of coincidences in the story, particularly the people involved. I felt at times like I was reading a "Murder She Wrote" episode where JB Fletcher always had a relative in every city or country that she went to.

     The ending was a shocker, for me at least, and I cried. Well done Ms Raybourn.\

 Publisher: Mira

 Release Date: October 1st, 2010

The book was received from the author for review. The review originally appeared at Book Lovers Inc.

Review: Night of the Living Trekkies by Kevin David Anderson & Sam Stall

Book Blurb:  Journey to the Final Frontier of Sci-Fi Zombie Horror!

Jim Pike was the world's biggest Star Trek fan—until two tours of duty in Afghanistan destroyed his faith in the human race. Now he sleepwalks through life as the assistant manager of a small hotel in downtown Houston.

But when hundreds of Trekkies arrive in his lobby for a science-fiction convention, Jim finds himself surrounded by costumed Klingons, Vulcans, and Ferengi—plus a strange virus that transforms its carriers into savage, flesh-eating zombies!

As bloody corpses stumble to life and the planet teeters on the brink of total apocalypse, Jim must deliver a ragtag crew of fanboys and fangirls to safety. Dressed in homemade uniforms and armed with prop phasers, their prime directive is to survive. But how long can they last in the ultimate no-win scenario?

*This is an original work of fiction, horror, and parody, and is not officially sponsored by, affiliated with, or endorsed by the owners of the Star Trek® brand. 

My Thoughts: I'm not generally a zombie fan but I AM a Trekkie. I've loved it since I was a little kid. One of my very best friends, I met over 20 years ago in college because of Star Trek. We had a class together but hadn't talked until she spotted me reading a Star Trek comic book (yes, this was back before they were graphic novels) as I waited for class to start. We've been good friends ever since. I spotted this book over the summer at my local independent book store, picked it up and skimmed through it. I've been to some ST conventions and the authors seemed to know what they were talking about plus it didn't seem campy despite the cover art so I decided to give it a try.

     The book moves quickly and contains some twists and turns, though a few parts were predictable. There are a few small plot holes, but the book is written in good fun. It's funny but not sarcastic or biting, the convention parts felt real, and the characters were likable. I did want to slap Jim a time or two, he was exceedingly self-absorbed, but he's written that way and some of the other characters did it for me. :D

     There's a running gag concerning the friendly rivalry between Trek fans and Star Wars fans which was fun but not overly done. There are some puns (hello, the name Jim Pike? Awesome)  but the book never becomes childish or crosses the line into ridiculous. I didn't completely buy into the explanation for where the zombies came from or how they developed but but it didn't interfere with my enjoyment of the book. It was fun, had lots of neat little ST references, and I read it in one sitting.


Publisher: Quirk Books

Release Date: July 28, 2010



I borrowed this paperback from my local library.

Review: Beg Me by Shiloh Walker

Book Blurb: Beg me…there had been a time when those words made her burn with desire. But now, there was only fear.
 
Once, Tania Sinclair’s life was almost perfect…oh, it had its ups and downs but she was happily married to a guy that adored her, one who had no problem indulging every kinky fantasy she ever had. But a couple of tragedies later, she’s barely holding it together. A car accident took away her husband, and an attack from somebody she should have been able to trust has shaken not only her confidence, but it’s also stripped away her fantasies and even made it painful to look back on her memories of her husband without fear.

Two years after her attack, Tania is determined to take her life back and the first step is taking back herself…her fantasies, her dreams, her memories. There’s only one person she can trust to do it, too. One person she wants enough…Drake Bennett, her husband’s best friend.

Falling for your best friend’s wife—never smart. Drake’s watched Tania quietly for years, watched her…wanted her, knowing he’d never have her. First, she was taken. And then, that night two years ago—a night that still scars her, a night that’s left bruises on her that still haven’t healed. He does what he can, though, because he loves her too much not to. He’s her friend, there when she needs him.

And now she needs him. She’s asked him for a favor…one that just about blows his mind…

Warning: This book involves light bondage play, rape fantasy & role-playing. The acts between the hero & heroine are consensual, but they may not be ideal for all readers… 

My Thoughts: I'm not really one for rape fantasies, they strike me as wrong and make me squirm. Rape, real rape, is pretty horrific.That said, people do have rape fantasies and I knew what I was getting when I bought this book. Not only does the book description include the above warning (I added the bolding) but Walker was also up front about it in her pre-publication buzz, both on her blog and on Twitter. I appreciated the fact that she was so upfront about the topic and so careful to inform her readers. The book sounded interesting and I decided to take a chance.

     I'm glad that I did. The topic is handled with great sensitivity and I can almost see the appeal. I say almost because I just don't run that way. Of course, the story is a romance too and that was my favorite part. I liked how it unfolded though I did think the ending was a bit rushed. Still, the characters are well-written and the story held my interest. My main quibble has to do with the behavior and actions of Tania's in-laws, especially her brother-in-law. I had no trouble believing his actions at the beginning of the book, but what we find out later about him and his mother, that was less believable. Despite that, the story flowed well and I enjoyed it. I even enjoyed some of the sex scenes. Walker handled the emotional fallout of the rape fantasies with a deft touch.

     Overall, a good book, well worth reading.

Publisher: Shiloh Walker, Inc.

Release Date: November 19, 2010

This e-book is owned by the reviewer.

Twas a Dark and Delicious Christmas

Review by Jax
Book Blurb:

‘Tis Christmas and everyone is stirring…
 
From the keeper of Santa’s naughty list, delightful little Elves eager to please, and the sensual love of a toy soldier—the holidays are filled with orgasmic cheer. Where wishes come true, Frosty is itching for a melt-down, fairies and angels are randy to grant your every wish, ‘tis the season to be oh, so jolly-filled.
 
Unwrap your darkest desires…for this is Christmas, and it will never be the same.

13 Author Anthology
Santa's Naughty List by Stacey Espino  
My Boys by Amarinda Jones
A Christmas Curse by Ericka Scott
The Little Red Ribbon by A.D. Blackburn
Once Upon a Christmas Spanking by Rachel Clark 
Yes Alana, There Is a Santa Claus by Seleste deLaney
Carly's Delights by Lauren Pilla
Kingdom of Sweets by Gigi Brevard
Holly's Clause by Kerri Nelson
Hard for the Holidays by Skylar Sinclair
The Christmas Fae by Emma Shortt
Jack Frost by Misty Burke
A Christmas Wish for Laura by Shannan Albright

 My Review:
Ever read a story that literally heats you up from the inside out? Well, here's a whole book full of 'em. They range from the sweet warmth of hot chocolate to the spicy heat of cinnamon candy. I was so very tempted to indulge in the whole feast of sweets in one sitting. But I know I'll go back and savor each story again and again. There are angels and elves, Christmas wishes, magic and miracles. And skip the nice list, I want on that naughty list this year! Spice up your winter - grab a mug of cocoa, find a quiet corner and see what Santa brought the lucky ladies in this book.

Publisher: Evernight Publishing
http://www.evernightpublishing.com/

Released: December 3, 2010

This book is in e-book format and is owned by the reviewer

New Features

     Although I am still computerless, thanks to a sick cat and an urgent, unplanned car repair, Jax and I have been busy making plans. I don't know what I'd do if my local public library didn't have computers with internet access. 

     Anyway, Jax and I have been talking and we will be adding two weekly features. One, which will probably be posted on Fridays, will be a roundup of contests and giveaways. Jax and I will track, as best we can, books, book gift cards, e-readers, etc that publishers, authors, and bloggers are giving away. We will post the relevant information, along with a link. If you want yours included, or know of one that we should include, please use the contact form at the bottom of the page to send us the information along with a way to reach you if we have any questions.

     The other new feature will be a weekly list of upcoming releases, both short-term and long-term. It will be a mix of genres, reflecting what Jax and I read. So you will find UF in it's various permutations, romance and it's permutations, mysteries, some sci-fi, some children's books, and the occasional assorted non-fictions ie cookbooks, child growth and development, etc.

     Both of these features should start in the next week or two. Please let us know how you like them and what you'd like to see. 

     Oh, and before I forget, Happy Hannukah! 

Review: Black Wings by Christina Henry

Book Blurb:

As an Agent of Death, Madeline Black is responsible for escorting the souls of the dearly departed to the afterlife. It's a 24/7 job with a lousy benefits package.

Maddy's position may come with magical powers and an impressive wingspan, but it doesn't pay the bills. And then there are her infuriating boss, tenant woes, and a cranky, popcorn-loving gargoyle to contend with.

Things start looking up, though, when tall, dark, and handsome Gabriel Angeloscuro agrees to rent the empty apartment in Maddy's building. It's probably just a coincidence that as soon as he moves in demons appear on the front lawn. But when an unholy monster is unleashed upon the streets of Chicago, Maddy discovers powers she never knew she possessed. Powers linked to a family legacy of tarnished halos.

Powers that place her directly between the light of Heaven and the fires of Hell...

My Thoughts:  This is the first in a new series, and although definitely an urban fantasy, it's roots are in Christian mythology. It uses stories that are not are an official part of the bible, though they have been around just as long, and tweaks them. That caught my eye, and my interest, right off the bat.

The story starts off fast and never lets up the pace. In short order Maddy has a new mysterious tenant (though, for me, the name was a dead giveaway), her job goes awry, other Agents of Death start dying themselves when it's not their time, and Maddy comes up against her mother's murderer. Before she knows it, she's neck deep in mysteries and plots both old and new, finds herself attracted to her tenant Gabriel (who I keep wanting to call Gabe), and discovers powers hidden within her. She also discovers her father and his somewhat dysfunctional family. Interspersed with all this, she finds herself having visions that she comes to realize are actually seeings of past events.

Although a lot is going on, Henry doesn't forget about the character development. I particularly liked when she had Maddy realize that however chaotic things were, she really needed to slow down and look, really look, at what's happening instead of just jumping from one crisis to the next. Too often, that's what the lead character in urban fantasies (and other genres) do and it gets old very quickly. I also liked that Maddy wasn't quick to trust Gabriel despite her attraction to him. She realizes that something is not right with him and pursues that before pursuing him. Maddy is no shrinking violet, she has backbone in spades, yet is also compassionate and likable.

I was less thrilled with the obstacles thrown up in the path of the possible relationship between Maddy and Gabriel, though Maddy's newfound fiance is one of those obnoxious guys you enjoy not liking. He thinks he's better than she is but he's just starting to see what she's really made of. The other obstacle, though it follows from what Henry has already established, still felt a bit fake to me.

I got a bit confused at times, and occasionally had to go back and reread sections but overall I really enjoyed this book and am ready for the next one to come out.

Publisher: Ace

Release Date: November 30, 2010

The book was provided by the author in paperback form. This review originally appeared at Book Lovers Inc.

Review: Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Review by Jax
Book Blurb:

In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . . .

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.
Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place—and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.
As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?
Unearthly is a moving tale of love and fate, and the struggle between following the rules and following your heart.


My Review:
Do you believe in Divine Intervention? Clara Gardner does. But then she's part angel looking to fulfill her purpose. Just as soon as she figures out what it is. Visions from God should come with a manual.

At 16, how many people know what they are supposed to do with their life? Clara handles the notion of having her fate decided incredibly well.Until her heart takes her in another direction. Will she become one of the sorrow filled Black Wings? Or is it possible that destiny is not as immutable as one might believe?

I love books that leave you with deep questions, ones that make you think about the nature of life, as well entertain. This book did that. It also leaves plenty of room for sequel, which I do hope is fated to come out quickly.

Publisher: Harperteen

Release Date: January 4th, 2011

The reviewer received this book as an eARC from NetGalley.

Aphrodite: A Memoir of the Senses

Review by Jax

Book Blurb: In Aphrodite, the internationally acclaimed writer Isabel Allende brings her magical storytelling powers to a highly personal and charmingly idiosyncratic look at the intertwined sensual arts of food and love. Blending personal reminiscence with folklore from around the world, historical legends, and memorably moments from literature - erotic and otherwise - Allende spices her narrative with equal portions of humor and insight.

Assembling a feast of fascinating facts about the aphrodisiac powers of food and drink, Allende serves them up with both convincing admiration and due irreverence. She offers suggestions, both ancient and modern, for luring a lover, kindling sexual ardor, prolonging the act of love, and reviving flagging virility. Dipping into the cauldron of history, she reports on the lascivious appetites of everyone from the emperor Nero to Catherine the Great to France's notorious Madame du Barry.

A personal ode to the pleasures of food and sex, Aphrodite celebrates the sensual life with joy and imagination. Allende's exuberance, storytelling powers and naughty sense of fun make this memoir an irresistible treat for the senses.





Back of Nude, painting by William Merritt Chase,

 just one of many beautful pieces to be found



My thoughts: this book isn't just a memoir of the senses, it's a delight to them. I could wax poetic about the prose in this book, but it's hard to add to the blurb! It is a magnificent read, Allende's own tale well seasoned with quotes from poems, stories, plays, novels and erotica. I love the way she describes not just the foods, but the settings - a glorious reminder that setting the mood means as much as serving the meal. In reading this book, I was reminded to savor more than the flavor of what is offered. In everyday life, it is so easy to simply go through the mechanics of eating. Usually on the go. Allende encourages you to truly partake of what's offered. The house slowly filling with mouthwatering scents. The careful preparation and presentation of the meal. The slow unveiling of the dishes. It's not just the ingredients that act as an aphrodisiac, it's the process. And she shares that so well. 

Aphrodite is also a cornucopia of art from the world over. It's like having an art gallery in your hands. If that isn't enough, there are these darling nymphs and satyrs that dance through the pages - sketches contributed to the feast by her friend Robert Shekter.

And lest you think this book is all talk - there are fabulous recipes to try at the end. So gather a group of your most daring friends and see what the evening brings!

Publisher: HarperCollins

Release Date: March 24, 1998

This book is owned by the reviewer.