Thursday, 29 August 2026

Cover Reveal: Soul Resurrected by Keri Lake







SOUL RESURRECTED (Sons of Wrath, #2)
By: Keri Lake
Website:  http://www.KeriLake.com
Release Date:  October 31, 2025
Genre:  Adult Paranormal Romance
Cover Designer:  David Wagner of Wagner LA Photography

Synopsis:

As Wrath’s fiercest son, Logan carries the scars of fifty years spent in the most dreaded prison of the underworld, for a sin he’d kill to keep secret. Enduring decades of gruesome torture has left Logan feared by and detached from others, until a female Alexi’s blood resurrects his soul from death and, with it, the pleasures he’s been denied for so long.

Plagued by shame of her own, Calla is drawn to the ruthless demon, Logan, whose insatiable craving for her touch rouses buried passions and, for once, leaves her feeling desired.

A dark and dangerous evil has been reawakened, however, and when Calla is drawn too close to its breeding grounds, Logan vows to summon the violence of Wrath in order to keep her safe. First, though, Calla must save him from a past riddled with deceit and corruption … but only if she can accept the consequences of unveiling a grisly truth.
Sons of Wrath
Never gamble with vengeance …

 
My Thoughts:
I confess, I haven't actually read any of this series yet, although I do have book one, Soul Avenged, on my review pile. BUT, a lot of my trusted book blogging friendlies have read it and seem to like it very much so I'm really excited to get to it!

Book Blitz: Excerpt & Giveaway: Ruin by C.J. Scott


Ruin by C.J. Scott 
(A Summer in Winter Novel 1) 
Publication date: August 2013 
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Synopsis: 

Kate Bell isn’t perfect. Not even close. The things she got up to in college would cause her parents to fall off their pedestals in shock. Home for the summer vacation, Kate settles in for a long, boring break in the tiny backwater of Winter with folks who still treat her like she’s twelve.

Then Ben Parker arrives and suddenly Winter gets interesting. He’s hot, mysterious and good with his hands. Kate falls for him instantly, but her cop father warns her to stay away. But how can she stay away from someone as compelling as Ben? Someone who thinks she’s perfect just the way she is?

When Ben’s secrets catch up to him, not only is Kate’s heart in danger of being broken, but Ben’s entire future could be ruined.



Purchase on AMAZON / BARNES & NOBLE

EXCERPT:

"So Ben Parker, if I want you and you want me...what's the problem?"

"You don't like to beat around the bush, do you?"

"We don't have time for that. We only have one night."

"Yeah," he said softly. "Don't I know it."

I turned so that I was fully facing him, one elbow on the railing. "Is that why you're reluctant? Because you're leaving tomorrow?"

"No. Yes. Partly." He shook his head. "It's complicated. I'm complicated."

"You're a guy. You can't be too complicated." I smiled and he smiled back sadly. "I'm listening if you want to explain all your complications to me."

He shook his head. "I can't."

"Look," I said. "I get that stuff has happened in your past that you want to forget."

He straightened. "What makes you think that?"

"You're traveling around the country with only one bag and no money. Not only that, but you got off the bus in a place with no jobs. If I wasn't mistaken, I'd say you're trying to lose yourself."

He leaned on the railing again, his hands dangling over into nothing. He looked out to the garden, but it had grown darker in the last few minutes, and it was difficult to make out more than just shapes. "You'll make a great criminologist, Kate. I have no doubt you'll go far in whatever you decide to do."

"Thanks. That's very sweet of you. But it has nothing to do with the question at hand."

"The question?"

I leaned over until my lips were near his ear. My breath fanned his hair. "Will you kiss me, Ben?" It was the wine talking. It had to be. I'd never been so brazen with any man before. I never made the first move, never took a chance on being rejected.

But I knew Ben wanted me. I just didn't know why he pushed me away.

***To read the extended version of this scene and discover what Ben has tattooed on his shoulder, check out C.J.'s website @ http://www.cjscottbooks.com

AUTHOR BIO: 


C.J. loves reading stories that take her way to another world. If she’s in the middle of an amazing book, she’ll keep reading while cooking or cleaning (when she can be bothered doing either).

She likes interesting artwork but can’t paint, sketch or make anything more complicated than a snowman from plasticine. She enjoys beautiful gardens but hates gardening. She also hates housework, cooking (see above) and writing about herself.

C.J. loves connecting with readers. The best place to interact with her and other fans is via her Facebook page. That’s where she posts teasers and other stuff from her books.

Author links:

GIVEAWAY:

Like what you've read so far? Enter the giveaway to win a FREE COPY of Ruin! 



Book Blitz: Excerpt & Giveaway: Silver Heart by Victoria Green

Silver Heart by Victoria Green 
Publication date: July 25th 2013 
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Synopsis:  There comes a moment in everyone's life when they must decide which road leads to personal happiness. For Dylan Silver, this is that moment...

For the past twenty-two-years, Dylan has been living in her parents' carefully crafted world, always putting her own dreams on hold to play the role of a dutiful daughter.

So when her best friend coaxes her into a winter getaway to a mountain cabin, she sees it as a chance to forget about the responsibilities waiting for her at home. At least for a little while.

But then her past catches up to her--in the form of sexy snowboarder, Sawyer Carter.

Six years ago, Dylan bid goodbye to the only boy she ever truly loved. Now he's standing right in front of her, bringing up bittersweet memories and igniting suppressed desires as he dares her to be the person she has always wanted to be.

Dylan and Sawyer's unexpected meeting is a second chance, but will a girl who doesn't believe in fate and taking risks be able to overcome her fears of losing control and finally embrace the life she desperately wants?

Only one thing is certain: after a week in Whistler, Dylan's world will never be the same.



*Buy it now on AMAZON*

EXCERPT

“I wish I could just crawl into your brain and erase away the past,” I told him, trying to smile through the pain in my heart.

My words seemed to shock him. He placed his fingers under my chin, gently lifting it so that our eyes could meet. “Don’t ever say that again. I wouldn’t let anyone to take away my past—no matter how bad some parts of it had been.” He pulled my face closer to his, resting his head against mine. “Because that would mean getting rid of you, Silver.”

We stayed frozen in place for a while, our foreheads touching lightly. Sawyer closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, breathing me in. Overwhelmed by his proximity and his icy scent, my head began to spin.

“But if we didn’t know each other you wouldn’t have to worry about having the worst snowboarding student in all of Whistler,” I finally said, breaking the tension.

His head rocked against mine as he chuckled. “Shut up. You were great today.” Then he pulled away and reached for the sushi container. “And you’ll be even better once we get some food in you.”

“Food?” I blurted out, unable to hide my disappointment. It washed over me like a bucket of ice cold water. I had been hoping for a different type of comfort. One which was less food-related and more Sawyer-based. My body was still tingling with the memory of what his skilled hands had done to me the night before. As the images flooded my mind, my breathing quickened and my nipples hardened, mounting under the fabric of the kimono.

I crossed my arms over my chest and took a deep breath. “Let’s take the sushi to the living room and find a good thriller to watch,” I suggested in an attempt to calm the excitement coursing through me. Guns and explosions would keep my thoughts in check. If my body was going to tingle, it may as well be from the thrill of a chase scene. Not Sawyer’s panty-dropping gaze. “I saw a couple of new releases in the DVD collection. I imagine action flicks are still your poison, right?”

“They are.” The right side of his lip quirked up in a slow, crooked half-grin. “Though I’m surprised you’re not championing The Notebook.”

“I only made you watch that with me because Maddie was away the summer it came out,” I said defensively.

He chuckled. “The first time. But what about all those other times I had to sit through it?”

“Cut me some slack. I was a thirteen-year-old girl.” In like with a guy I wasn’t even supposed to be hanging out with. Subconsciously, I may have related to the star-crossed lovers portrayed in the film.

“And I was a fifteen-year-old guy,” he retorted. “You should’ve known that blood and guts were much more important for my development than kisses and love stories.”

“Well it’s a good thing that I’m going to find a movie with enough blood and guts to make up for all those times I made you watch a chick flick,” I shot back.

He shook his head in feigned displeasure. “It’s too late now.”

“Oh? Why is that?”

“Because now...” His hands slid to the side of my stool and dragged me closer to him so that his mouth was an inch away from mine. “…I happen to enjoy kissing.”

My eyes dropped to his lips. “Is that so? You like kissing girls?”

“I like kissing a girl.”

“Lucky girl.”

“Very lucky girl,” he replied as his eyes darkened. “Especially since I want to do a lot more than just kiss her.” His tongue snaked over his bottom lip in a predatory manner, causing my own lips to part in response.

Though he wasn’t actually touching me, I could feel the heat emanating from his body. It drew me in like a moth to a flame. I wanted to dive into his fire, surrender myself to whatever pleasures he was promising.

But then he doused that blaze by saying, “I’ll wash the cherries, you get the sushi, and let’s get started on that movie.”

What? No, no, no! I wanted to get back to the kissing talk.

“I’m not that hungry.” I ran my fingers through my hair in an attempt to regain my composure.

“Why do you look so disappointed?”

“It’s just that…”

Why was I feeling let down? And so freaking turned on?

“Were you expecting me to say something else instead?” His fingers drifted to the side of my neck, as his thumb grazed over my bottom lip, tugging at the soft, plump flesh. “Something along the lines of: ‘I’ll rip your clothes off, you kiss me with that pretty little mouth, and let’s fuck right here on top of this counter.’?” His grip tightened and he drew my mouth closer to his. “Is that what you want, Silver?”

A lustful ache spread between my thighs, ripping through my entire body. Excitement rocked the depths of my stomach, tearing into my chest, slipping past my lips in form of a small, pleading moan.

“Is that a yes?” His breath teased my lips with each word.

Afraid that I would be unable to form a coherent sentence, I simply nodded. It was an eager, hungry nod, and my heart hammered against my rib cage in anticipation of his next move.

And that’s when he pulled away. He detached his hand from my face and took a step back, replacing the heat of his body with an empty coldness.

“First, I’m going to make you sit through two long hours of an action flick,” he said, smirking devilishly. “As payback for The Notebook.”


AUTHOR BIO

Victoria Green is a New Adult author who enjoys writing about unspoken love and second chances. She’s a travel junkie and a huge photography enthusiast. Her experience growing up in a war-torn country has helped teach her the importance of living life to the fullest and appreciating every single day. She believes in true love, good chocolate, and great books. She lives in Canada with her high school sweetheart (though he's graduated to a fiancé now) and their pack of puppies, and also writes Young Adult novels under a different name.

Author Links:
Website: http://www.victoriagreenauthor.blogspot.ca/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7165422.Victoria_Green
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Victoria-Green-Author/608122942541582
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VG_Writes

GIVEAWAY

Like what you've read about Silver Heart so far? How about we sweeten the deal with an amazing giveaway? We know you love those! :)

Enter NOW for your chance to win:

  • Silver Heart necklace
  • $30 gift card to Amazon/B&N/Kobo/Chapters/iTunes (winner's choice)
  • Snow-themed Essie nail polish (color: Set In Stones)
  • 5 of Sawyer's Live-Ride tattoos
  • 5 Silver Heart bookmarks

**Giveaway is open in the US and internationally**

Wednesday, 28 August 2026

Quickie Review: Highlander Betrayed by Laurin Wittig ★★★

17622390Highlander Betrayed by Laurin Wittig
Genre: Historical Romance/Scottish Romance
Series: Guardians of the Targe #1
Publication Date: August 6th 2013
ISBN: 9781477807279
Page Count: 380
Rating: ★★★
Review Copy: ARC

Reviewed by: Lynsey


Synopsis: Hidden deep in the rugged Scottish Highlands lies the Highland Targe, an ancient relic guarded for centuries by clan MacAlpin. It is said the Targe can shield the heart of the Highlands from invaders and now, as part of his plan to crush the Scottish rebellion, the English king wants the Targe for himself...

Rowan MacGregor, orphaned niece to the chief of the MacAlpins and the rock her family depends upon, is worried. With the dwindling health of her aunt, the Guardian of the Targe, the protections that have kept the clan safe and prosperous are fading, and the new Guardian, one of her cousins, has yet to be chosen. Rowan wants nothing more than to see the clan protected again, but when it seems that will never happen, she despairs—even when a handsome and charming stranger comes to her aid.

Nicholas fitz Hugh is not what he seems. Half-English, half-Scottish, he turned his back on his Scottish heritage early in his life, giving his loyalty to England instead. Now he is a talented and cunning spy charged with finding and stealing the Highland Targe for his king.

But when Nicholas finds himself falling for the bonny Rowan and wanting to protect the family she holds so dear, he is forced to choose between his king’s will and his own: Will he betray his king and his mission? Or will he turn his back on the woman he has come to love?

 
Quickie Review:


MacAlmost

This was a very sweet tale with very nicey nice characters and a somewhat chaste romance. The story was well-written but dull, especially considering the potential. You have a betrayal that could have wrought a lot more heartache than it did - it was all too easily brushed aside. You have paranormal stuff with the guardianship of the targe that's over before it gets going. And you have a villain who is off page too much to present any real sense of danger.

I'm going to recommend this to readers who don't like too much sex in their Highlander romances but enjoy sweet, gentle character exploration and development.

3 Stars ★★★

ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.



 Reviewed by:

Waiting on Wednesday #2


Welcome to Waiting on Wednesday! WOW is hosted by Breaking the Spine and is a showcase for all the yummy books we can't wait to get our grubby little hands on.

This week's picks are...

Lynsey's Pick:

12081652Unchained by J. Lynn
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Nephilim Rising #1
Publication Date: September 17th 2013 


Synopsis: Between the pissed off creatures that want demon-hunter Lily Marks dead and the fallen angel who just...wants her, Lily is about ready to trade in forever for a comfy job in a cubicle farm.

The fact that she and Julian are civil to one another is enough to have her thrown out of the Sanctuary, but she can't shake her not-so-angelic stalker or how he brings her dangerously close to ecstasy.

Her forbidden relationship with Julian provides the perfect fuel for suspicion when a traitor is discovered to be working within the Sanctuary. Lily quickly finds herself hunted by well, everyone.

Her only hope is to discover the real traitor before she loses everything--and she'll need Julian's help. That is, if Julian is really there to help her...and not destroy her.

Yeah, being a Nephilim isn't everything it's cracked up to be.

******


We have this to review next month! Can't wait! I've enjoyed everything I've read from this author so far. Don't forget to come back for our blog tour stop on 20th to see how we both got on with it:)


Janice's Pick:


Untold by Sarah Rees Brennan
Genre: Ya Gothic/Paranormal
Series: Lynburn Legacy #2
Publication Date: September 24th 2013 


Synopsis: Synopsis: Free from bonds, but not each other

It’s time to choose sides… On the surface, Sorry-in-the-Vale is a sleepy English town. But Kami Glass knows the truth. Sorry-in-the-Vale is full of magic. In the old days, the Lynburn family ruled with fear, terrifying the people into submission in order to kill for blood and power. Now the Lynburns are back, and Rob Lynburn is gathering sorcerers so that the town can return to the old ways.

But Rob and his followers aren’t the only sorcerers in town. A decision must be made: pay the blood sacrifice, or fight. For Kami, this means more than just choosing between good and evil. With her link to Jared Lynburn severed, she’s now free to love anyone she chooses. But who should that be?

******

I have been waiting what feels like FOREVER for this book to come out. Book #1 in this series took me completely by surprise and messed me up in the best of ways (you can read my Goodreads review of it HERE). It also had one of the most brutal cliffhangers I've read in a long, long time, so yeah, you might say I've been a wee bit impatient while waiting for Untold to come out. Chomping at the bit is more like it! The print release is scheduled for September, but the Kindle version is available....TOMORROW!!!!! Woohoo, August 29th, baby! So excited! *happy dances*


Cover Reveal: Through Glass by Rebecca Ethington





We are so excited to be able to bring to you the cover reveal for Rebecca Ethington’s THROUGH GLASS which releases in less than a month on September 20th, 2013.

Both the book’s cover and description are awesome and more than a little bit chilling and we cannot wait for its release.

If you’d like to know more about the author, Rebecca Ethington, be sure to check out her website, or any of the other places she hangs out online.

And if you can’t wait until September 20th for the release of THROUGH GLASS, the first book in her Imdalind series, KISS OF FIRE, is now available in eBook format for free at AMAZON, BARNES & NOBLE and for the KOBO.

We love the cover, but what do you think?


COMING SEPTEMBER 20TH, 2013

About THROUGH GLASS

Everyone remembers the day the sky went black. They remember the screams as the blackness ate those who were out in the open, those who surrounded themselves by light, and those who made noise.

Everyone remembers the voice from the sky, the way food disappeared.

Everyone remembers the day the sky went black, and the sun was wiped from the sky.

At least that’s what I hope. I hope that there is an ‘everyone’ that will remember.

I hope that I am not alone.

Because I remember.

I remember, because it was the day I became alone.

It was the day the house went silent, and the birds stopped singing. It was the day when everyone disappeared, everyone except the boy, the only person I have seen in two years.

The boy I talk to through the glass.


***


About Rebecca Ethington

Rebecca Ethington has been telling stories since she was small. First, with writing crude scripts, and then on stage with years of theatrical performances. The Imdalind Series is her first stint into the world of literary writing.

Rebecca is a mother to two, and wife to her best friend of 14 years. She was born and raised in the mountains of Salt Lake City, and hasn’t found the desire to leave yet. Her days are spent writing, running, and enjoying life with her amazing family.


Tuesday, 27 August 2026

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Relic by Renee Collins

Title: Relic
Author: Renee Collins
Pub. Date: August 27, 2026
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Pages: 400

Find it: 
AmazonBarnes & NobleThe Book DepositoryGoodreads

Synopsis: After a raging fire consumes her town and kills her parents, Maggie Davis is on her own to protect her younger sister and survive the best she can in the Colorado town of Burning Mesa. In Maggie’s world, the bones of long-extinct magical creatures such as dragons and sirens are mined and traded for their residual magical elements, and harnessing these relics’ powers allows the user to wield fire, turn invisible, or heal even the worst of injuries.

Working in a local saloon, Maggie befriends the spirited showgirl Adelaide and falls for the roguish cowboy Landon. But when she proves to have a particular skill at harnessing the relics’ powers, Maggie is whisked away to the glamorous hacienda of Álvar Castilla, the wealthy young relic baron who runs Burning Mesa. Though his intentions aren’t always clear, Álvar trains Maggie in the world of relic magic. But when the mysterious fires reappear in their neighboring towns, Maggie must discover who is channeling relic magic for evil before it’s too late.

Relic is a thrilling adventure set in a wholly unique world, and a spell-binding story of love, trust, and the power of good.



AUTHOR BIO:


Renee Collins graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in History, and currently lives with her family in the shadow of the Colorado red-rock cliffs, though she hasn't unearthed a relic. Yet. Relic is her first novel.












GIVEAWAY:

Win a signed copy of Relic and a printed, signed set of Relic almanac pages! (US only) 



Monday, 26 August 2026

Joint ARC Review: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas ★★★★★



Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas
Genre: Fantasy
Series: Throne of Glass #2
Publication Date: August 27th 2013
ISBN: 9781619630628
Page Count: 432
Rating: ★★★★★
Review Copy: ARC
Excerpt: HERE
Reviewed by: Janice/Lynsey


Synopsis: After a year of hard labor in the Salt Mines of Endovier, eighteen-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien has won the king's contest to become the new royal assassin. Yet Celaena is far from loyal to the crown - a secret she hides from even her most intimate confidantes.

Keeping up the deadly charade—while pretending to do the king's bidding—will test her in frightening new ways, especially when she's given a task that could jeopardize everything she's come to care for. And there are far more dangerous forces gathering on the horizon -- forces that threaten to destroy her entire world, and will surely force Celaena to make a choice.

Where do the assassin’s loyalties lie, and who is she most willing to fight for?

Janice's Review:


Mind = Blown 

Throne of Glass was a 2012 favorite pick here at The Demon Librarian, and I can tell you right now, its sequel, CROWN OF MIDNIGHT, is going to appear on our Best of 2013 list. Simply put, this book rocks. It doesn't just pick up where the last one left off - it shoots the series into a whole new realm of awesomeness.

Before I dive into my review, I'd like to say something to those who read last year's Throne of Glass and struggled with it - those of you who wanted more assassin-y stuff, and less focus on Calaena's love life, wardrobe, and reading habits. I'm not the author (obviously) but in my humble reader's opinion, all that so-called "fluff" in ToG was necessary to lay the groundwork for things to come, and you'll understand why (or start to) when you read CROWN OF MIDNIGHT. You don't have to take my word for it, though. In fact, I hope you don't. Get yourself a copy of CROWN OF MIDNIGHT and see for yourselves. If you read it and still feel the same way about the series, I'll be happy to eat crow.

Okay, now that I've gotten that out of the way... ;)

CROWN OF MIDNIGHT picks up not long after the events of Throne of Glass. Calaena is now the King's Champion, forced to do his bidding...or else. The man is a tyrant in every sense of the word, and his latest assignment is for Calaena to track down and assassinate members of an alleged rebellion, one by one. Much as she would like to, defying the King's orders is not an option. Calaena must obey him. If she doesn't, all the people she has grown to love and care about will be in danger - and the King is just the kind of despicable person to make good on his threats.

Calaena is a very different heroine this time around. She's still a girl who loves books and pretty things, but there's a seriousness about her - a purpose - that wasn't there before. She really is as badass as she claims to be, and she proves it repeatedly throughout the book. I loved the darker, more ruthless side of her - boy did I! - but what really impressed me was how very human she was. Maas splits Calaena's character wide open, allowing us to see so many more facets to Calaena's personality. I was right there with Calaena as she navigated the treacherous waters she is forced to swim in. I cheered for her, felt for her, and completely fangirled over her.

For me, though, what really shot this book into the stars were boys. I ate up every scene written from their POV's. I was already madly in love with Chaol after book one (seriously, who wouldn't fall in love with him? He's amazeballs!) and after reading CROWN OF MIDNIGHT....wow. Just, wow. I heart him so much. He's everything a hero should be - intelligent and sincere, true and loyal, and oh so swoonworthy! But some of the same traits that make him so wonderful are also his undoing, leading him to make decisions that made me shake my Kindle and shout, "No no no!" Amazing as he is, Chaol isn't perfect, and it was good to see that. It made me love him that much more. And then there was Dorian - OMG Dorian!!!! I liked him in book one (although not as a love interest) but I gotta say, the development of his character in this book absolutely blew me away. Out of all the characters, I think his story line was the most exciting for me, because I never saw any of it coming, and I can't wait to see where he goes from here.

Sarah J. Maas has pulled out all the stops with this one, folks. You name it, CROWN OF MIDNIGHT has it. There are secrets and lies, betrayals, jaw-dropping revelations, passion and heartbreak, death and violence, magic and mystery...the list just goes on and on, and it all adds up to one heck of a story that will have you frantically turning the pages and snarling like a bad-tempered dog at anyone who dares to come between you and the next sentence.

This book shook me, stirred me, and left me begging for more. I'm not just invested in the world and characters Maas has created - I'm addicted, and proud to say so!

5 Stars ★★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.



 Reviewed by:



Lynsey's Review:


Cloak and Dagger... and Dresses

This series is an all-rounder for me. It has a wonderful, effortless feel to the writing, a romance subplot that I'm clinging to with a desperate hope that will not be denied, a protagonist that can be a ruthless, cold-hearted assassin one minute, and a vulnerable, frivolous female the next - and switch between the two sides of her nature with ease. It has terrific story scope and a lot of detail and foreshadowing that shows tremendous thought and planning. It has action, court politics, humour, love, betrayals... Everything I love all in one nicely-wrapped package, basically. And CROWN OF MIDNIGHT was no exception.

Speaking of Celaena's colder side, there's something that happens here in CROWN OF MIDNIGHT that causes her to... devolve, shall we say, back to that creature we met in the first book, fresh from the mines. Someone so filled with rage and grief that she's all but blinded by it and becomes as much a danger to herself as she is to others. And, let's face it, she's pretty dangerous to others. I worried for her a lot in this book. What's great in Maas's delivery is that through experiencing the three different POVs - Celaena, Chaol, and Dorian's - we get an unfiltered view of Celaena when she's gone over to this dark side and, whoo boy, it's not pretty. I think there's probably even more heartache to come for her too, which I find thrilling from a reader's POV, but terrifying on Celaena's behalf.

Although the imminent threat of death present throughout book one was somewhat lessened here thanks to Celaena's more powerful status within the castle - indeed, she now outranks most people - that's not to say all danger is gone. Far from it. It's just that this time Celaena is the one putting herself in danger through her deceptions. If caught, death would be her best option by far, which is a sad and sorry state of affairs.

One character you get to know a lot more about in CROWN OF MIDNIGHT is Chaol. While he's the quieter, more unassuming of the two men in the series, he's my favourite pick for Celaena. He's just so...good; so honourable and decent. He balances out some of Celaena's rougher edges (assassins have those). I enjoyed the time dedicated to getting to know his character and am greedy for yet more still in books to come.

That's not to say dear Dorian didn't get time to shine also. Although, with him, the romance angle is the least of his current worries. The stuff happening with him came as a surprise, but a welcome one because I confess I had been wondering what his role might be now that "shameless flirt" is off the table. Having said that, he clearly still carries a torch for Celaena. I think it's because she's so real with him, lacking in any pretenses, that he feels such a connection to her. She would never fawn over him just because of his title like the rest of the ladies at court. Which, although not what he's used to, is just what he needs, I think. I find it reassuring that he can be humble like that, and isn't a power-hungry fiend like his father. If he survives long enough to rule one day, he may turn out to be one helluva king because of it.

One thing I did find unusual in this instalment was the author's decision to keep certain things about Celaena a secret, not only from other characters, but from us readers as well. Not until one character discovers some truths do we have it confirmed for ourselves. This is an unusual method of delivery - you'd normally expect to know such things from the narrative and be "in on the secret". And it was a whopper of a secret, too, and is going to mean BIG changes for Celaena's character in books to come. Of which I sincerely hope there will be many.

A great continuation of one of my now favourite fantasy series - 5 Stars! ★★★★★

ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.




For Book's Sake! #2 Weekly discussion post


Hey everyone and welcome to our weekly feature, FOR BOOK'S SAKE!

We review a wide variety of books here at The Demon Librarian, but we're readers first and foremost, and like any reader, we have our favorite genres and types of characters or romances. But why do we love one genre more than another? What is it about a certain type of character or romance that makes us swoon or leaves us with a "meh" feeling? We'll be chatting about these and other compelling readerly questions over the next few months, and we hope you'll join us in the discussion!

This week's topic is...dun, dun DUNNNN! Spoilers!
Discussion:

L:  Okay, so, Janice already knows I feel pretty strongly about this issue - I make no secret of the fact that I do not like spoilers. Like, at all. To me, the clue is in the name: S P O I Ler. As in, something that may spoil a reader's enjoyment of a book. But apparently, there are some cray cray loco people out there who actually like spoilers! That go on review sites and actively seek them out! I know, right? Cuckoo!



But wait! It gets worse! I've heard of another even scarier species of reader that likes spoilers so much they...they...read the last page of a book before they start to see how it ends!

WHAT is this lunacy?!!!

Somebody explain it to me quick!

J: Hmmm, yes. About that. I confess I have, on occasion, searched the web for spoilers, teasers, hints and what-not about my favorite series. And I may have peeked at the last chapter or page of a book a few times in my reading career. Does this mean we can't be friends anymore? ;)

L: Yes. Also, seek help.

J: I think the only help I need right now is of the medical variety, because OUCH, that hurts, Lynsey! I thought we were pals! C'mon, be honest. You have never in your entire life wanted even the teeny-tiniest clue about what's going to happen in a book you've been waiting forever to read? Not once?

L: Oh, I *want* to know. Oy, do I want to know. Sometimes desperately so. But I would just rather find out when I'm supposed to. I think the author should be able to tell me his or her story the way they want to, and any big revelations or major plot points should be revealed naturally at the right time. Any tension, anticipation or foreshadowing that an author has worked hard to put into their novel would be completely dashed were someone to tell me what's coming ahead of time. It may even prevent me from reading the book at all.

But, hey, in the spirit of friendship or whatever, and to make up for insinuating you have mental health problems, I will allow you to try and convince me of the merits of spoilers.

The floor is yours...

J: Okay, here goes....*climbs onto soapbox*....

I think the quest for spoilers is, in a way, a compliment to the author. It shows that we as readers are so invested in the book and the characters, we simply must know what happens next, and since in a lot of cases we have to wait months (or more) between books, we hunt for something, anything, to tide us over. Do we find anything? Usually not. Authors are on to us, I'm afraid, and guard their precious book secrets with their lives - as they should! But that doesn't stop us from hoping and looking, just on the off-chance they drop a hint of things to come. And that's really all we're after - a hint. We don't want the entire book spoiled for us - believe it or not, we enjoy a good plot twist or surprise as much as the next reader! - but the suspense of waiting for the next book drives us nuts, and our way of coping with that insanity is to go digging for clues. For example, as a diehard Hollows fan, I am a regular visitor at Kim Harrison's Drama Box. There's a spoiler thread on there where Kim takes questions from her readers. She is incredibly savvy in her responses, openly discussing her books without really giving anything away, but every so often, she will make a teasing (usually vague) statement that makes us all sit up and take notice. Is she spoiling the book? Not even close! If anything, she is whipping up more excitement in her readers, and in the long run, that can only be a good thing.

Having said all that, I do not in any way, shape or form condone or agree with those who go to the extreme of pirating books or who spill the entire can of beans about a novel they've just read. That's just plain wrong. It hurts the author, for starters, because now readers know what is going to happen and won't feel the same burning need to buy the book. It hurts other fans too, because once a major spoiler is revealed, it's hard to keep it a secret from the rest of the reading community and inevitably, someone is going to be spoiled who doesn't want to be.

Long story short, I think it's human nature (for some of us anyway lol) to fish for information about series we love or books we are dying to read, but as with anything, it's best done in moderation. There's no harm in wanting hints or clues. Just don't go crazy and respect the fact that not everyone wants the inside scoop like you do.

So, have I convinced you?

L: Yyyyeah, no. Still hate spoilers. But, it's okay! Because we're mature adults and can agree to disagree, right?

Janice?

Janice, are you there?

Janice? Buddy? My old Pal?

Anybody...?

We hope you enjoyed our discussion this week! If you have any other suggestions for discussion topics, or anything else to say at all, drop us a comment below!

Bye for now :)



Friday, 23 August 2026

Tour Stop & ARC Review: Twilight Hunter by Kait Ballenger

Twilight Hunter by Kait Ballenger
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Series: Execution Underground #1
Publication Date: August 27th 2013
ISBN: 9780373777389
Page Count: 376
Rating: ★★★★
Review Copy: ARC
Reviewed by: Janice


Synopsis: Hunters of the supernatural, the Execution Underground are an elite group tasked with protecting humanity...but what happens when danger collides with desire?

Jace McCannon has one loyalty: the Execution Underground. Despite his mixed blood, his hatred for the werewolves he hunts is legendary. But in his search for a sadistic killer, Jace finds himself face to face with a stunningly seductive packmaster…and longing for a night with his mortal enemy.

Nothing can stop Frankie Amato from defending her kind--or catching the rogue responsible for killing women in her territory. For that, this alpha female needs Jace’s skills more than she wants to admit. But as their investigation exposes evil truths, need burns into a passion that dare not be fulfilled. For to do so will have deadly consequences for them both…

 
Review:


The possibilities are endless! 

I loooooove starting a new series. The excitement of entering a brand-spankin'-new world and meeting a fresh set of characters gets me every time. I love it even more than I love chocolate....and if you knew what a chocolate fiend I am, you'd understand what a big deal that statement is!

So let's talk story. In a nutshell, there's a brutal (and seriously deranged) supernatural killer on the loose, and to stop him, Frankie and Jace must set aside their differences and work together - preferably before they become the hunted. Easy, right? Wrong! Frankie is a werewolf, the alpha of her pack, and Jace is a werewolf hunter who works for the uber-secret organization known as the Execution Underground, which makes them natural enemies. About the only thing they have in common is their desire to bring the killer to justice. That, and the surprising and utterly scorching attraction that burns between them.

The book boasts an impressive cast. While Frankie and Jace may be the stars of the show, the supporting characters are equally attention-grabbing. Whatever kind of character floats your boat, trust me, you'll find him or her within Twilight Hunter's pages. All the characters are unique, with their own distinct skills and gifts, and every last one of them is badass in some way. It's a veritable buffet for readers, and I really have to hand it to Kait Ballenger for successfully weaving so many different personalities into her story without muddling the story itself.

If you love paranormal romances, you should definitely check out Twilight Hunter. It's got action, drama, lots of characters to fall in love with, and all the steamy-smexy times you could ask for....and that's just the tip of the awesome iceberg. The truly wonderful thing about the world Kait Ballenger has created is all the doors it opens for future books. With so many characters and story lines to explore, the possibilities for this series are practically endless. I don't know about you, but that sounds pretty darn good to me. So go on, add Twilight Hunter to your TBR list...right now!

4 Stars ★★★★
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.


 Reviewed by:

Wednesday, 21 August 2026

Waiting on Wednesday #1


Welcome to our very first Waiting on Wednesday! WOW is hosted by Breaking the Spine and is a showcase for all the yummy books we can't wait to get our grubby little hands on.

This week's picks are...

Lynsey's pick:

12528745Tempt the Stars by Karen Chance
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Cassamdra Palmer #6
Publication Date: September 25th 2013


Synopsis: Being a goddess is a lot less fun than you might think. Especially when you’re only a half goddess, and you only found out about it recently, and you still don’t know what you’re doing half the time. And when you’ve just used your not-so-reliable powers to burglarize the booby-trapped office of a vampire mob boss.

Yeah, that part sucks.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg for Cassandra Palmer, aka the Pythia, the freshly minted chief seer of the supernatural world. After all, Cassie still has to save a friend from a fate worse than death, deal with an increasingly possessive master vampire, and prevent a party of her own acolytes from unleashing a storm of fury upon the world. Totally just your average day at the office, right?

******


Seriously, I love this series, you guys. It was one of my first forays into this genre. Can't wait for this book!


Janice's pick:

10184403Chimes at Midight by Seanan McGuire
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: October Daye #7
Publication Date: September 3rd 2013


Synopsis: Things are starting to look up for October "Toby" Daye. She's training her squire, doing her job, and has finally allowed herself to grow closer to the local King of Cats. It seems like her life may finally be settling down...at least until dead changelings start appearing in the alleys of San Francisco, killed by an overdose of goblin fruit.

Toby's efforts to take the problem to the Queen of the Mists are met with harsh reprisals, leaving her under sentence of exile from her home and everyone she loves. Now Toby must find a way to reverse the Queens decree, get the goblin fruit off the streets--and, oh, yes, save her own life, since more than a few of her problems have once again followed her home. And then there's the question of the Queen herself, who seems increasingly unlikely to have a valid claim to the throne....

To find the answers, October and her friends will have to travel from the legendary Library of Stars into the hidden depths of the Kingdom of the Mists--and they'll have to do it fast, because time is running out. In faerie, some fates are worse than death.

October Daye is about to find out what they are.

******

For me, the October Daye series is urban fantasy royalty, and every year, I wait not-so-patiently for the next book to arrive. After last year's Ashes of Honor, I am positively DYING to get my hands on Chimes At Midnight!