Books Read In December

December was a slow reading month for me. Life was busy, work was busy and I felt more like hibernating than reading. Still, there were several quality reads this month. What a great way to end 2009!

As Shadows Fade by Colleen Gleason -- I was sad to come to the end of this 5 book journey with Victoria Gardella and her merry vampire hunters. And while the story arcs are now finished, there is the opportunity for further stories down the road. After all, not even Illa Gardella can vanquish all the vampires...right?

Kindred in Death by J. D. Robb -- There has yet to be an In Death book I don't enjoy. Kindred in Death was a great story that subtly propels the series forward while giving the reader a satisfying story with a a compelling plot and beloved characters. And the body count was just right. LOL

Succubus on Top by Richelle Mead -- Richelle Mead amazed me. She developed a unique world within the urban fantasy genre and gave us a succubus with a conscience. We were first introduced to Georgina in Succubus Blues and the story continues in Succubus on Top. Some of the layers of this unique world within Seattle, WA are being revealed and I cannot wait to pick up the third book in this series!

Succubus Dreams by Richelle Mead -- Book three of the Georgina Kincaid series. The series still has wonderful wit and quirky humor but the tones are starting to turn darker. Things are getting more complicated for the succubus - both in her love life and in her immortal life - and there are some interesting twists and turns. I'm really enjoying this series and am so happy book 4 is currently in print.

One What Grounds by Cleo Coyle -- I wanted to read a mystery and after reading about Cleo Coyle on Marjorie M. Liu's blog I decided to give the Coffee House Mystery series a try. I'm so glad! The book was well written with engaging characters, a unique location and a great plot. If you are a fan of cosy mysteries and coffee, this series is for you!

The Ghost & Mrs. McClure by Alice Kimberly -- I enjoyed the Coffee House Mystery book so much I wanted to know what else she wrote. Under pen name Alice Kimberly she writes the Haunted Bookshop series. A 1940's gumshoe haunts the bookstore of widow Penelope McClure. And only Pen can see him! The first book was off to a slow start but got much better as the story went along. I will definitely read book 2!

Blaze of Memory by Nalini Singh -- Book 7 or 8 of Nalini's Psy/Changling series takes a closer look at the Forgotten, members of the Psy community whose ancestors broke away from the Psy during the implementation of Silence. Decades later some of the Forgotten are developing strong mental skills and are once again being hunted by the Psy. It's up to Dev, the leader of Shine, to protect his people. The conflict for this story centered around Dev and a left-for-dead Psy scientist whose mind has been broken by the Psy Council and may be a sleeper agent sent to destroy everything Dev has worked toward. This is a strong addition to the Psy/Changling paranormal romance series and opens the door to many future plots that I'm very excited to read about. Once Nalini writes them, that is. *grin*

Books Read in November

Succubus Blues by Richelle Mead -- A great start to an urban fantasy series where you just aren't sure if the heroine and the potential hero will ever work out since she will suck the life force out of him if they ever consummate the relationship. Lots of great references to mythology and religion.

Turn Coat by Jim Butcher -- I ::heart:: Jim Butcher! His Harry Dresden series is always a delight and with events in Turn Coat I'm more curious than ever about where the series is going. Another gripping read!

Shadowlight by Lynn Viehl -- Lynn gave us the Darkyn series, her take on the vampire mythology paired with science, as only Lynn can. Shadowlight is the beginning of a spin off series about the Kyndred, those genetically altered humans who have the ability to become Kyndred without dying and who have unique traits all their own. This book was a wonderful bridge between the two series and leaves me rooting for the Kyn on both sides of the genetic code.

Can't Stand the Heat by Louisa Edwards -- A fun book about food, restaurants, and finding yourself that was a delight to read. Entertaining and hilarious with enough poignancy to really pull the reader in. I will definitely read the next book Louisa writes!

Instant Gratification by Jill Shalvis -- Jill offers a sexy and entertaining contemporary romance that hits the spot with book 2 of her Wilder Brothers trilogy. When I'm in the mood for a good romance, I turn to Jill. Nuff said.

Bed of Roses by Nora Roberts -- Book two of Nora's Brides Quartet is a fun book. Not as much conflict as I usually like, but a great story about sisterhood and falling in love.

Eyes like Stars by Lisa Mantchev -- The theater literally comes alive in this first book of the Young Adult Théâtre Illuminata series. A wonderful story about belonging and becoming amidst the chaos and camaraderie of the world of the theater.

Mountain Investigation by Jessica Andersen -- A nice light read that is what it is and nothing more - a short romantic suspense that centers on two people tossed together because of danger and intrigue. Harlequin Intrigue does it right when I'm in the mood for romance amidst, well, intrigue.

Hot on Her Heels by Susan Mallery -- The final book in Susan Mallery's Titan Sisters series is a great ending to a roller coaster ride. Susan does a great job of redeeming the hero and bringing a family together despite their history.

Burn by Linda Howard -- Burn is more suspense light than romantic suspense and while it feels implausible, the characters save the plot and kept me reading. I actually would like a sequel just so I can see what happens next.

Agnes and the Hitman by Jennifer Crusie & Bob Mayer - I wasn't that thrilled with the first Crusie/Mayer collaboration. It was okay but felt much more Crusie than collaborative. This book has a great blend of voices and talent and even though it's on the lighter side and things happen quickly, the story sucked me right in and kept me entertained as well as guessing.

Books Read in October

I have a few books on this list that were read at the tail end of September but because I left them at the cabin, I couldn't remember what they were. The closer I get to forty, the more notes I need to write for myself to keep me on track. *grin*

Defender and Hotshot by Catherine Mann -- The first two books of Catherine's Dark Ops series. Well written stories, but I do miss her early Wingmen Warrior series.

Black Hills by Nora Roberts -- I enjoyed the location of this story and the hero and heroine. The character development wasn't super strong, but the story was well rounded and entertaining. And at the end of the day, when I read fiction I want to be entertained.

Love You To Death by Shannon K. Butcher -- a creepy yet engaging romantic suspense focusing on a serial killer, two sisters and a cop who's lost his way. One of Shannon's best!

A Dark Love by Margaret Carroll -- another creepy yet engaging romantic suspense. The romance was a little difficult to believe, but the hero was a well written character. I would have liked to have known more about the villain but over all this was a solid first romantic suspense by the author.

My Soul To Take by Rachel Vincent -- first of the Soul Screamers series, a young adult series about banshees and death and life, oh my. A solid book, entertaining for me and written in such a way I can see adults enjoying this as much as teens. Looking forward to the next in the series.

An Echo in the Bone by Diana Gabaldon -- the long awaited 7th book...

The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley -- YA fantasy written in 1982 but has the ability to capture and pull me into the mythical world of Damar, filled with magic, kings, horses, swords and the discovery of one's self and purpose. I reread this for book club and I adore it now as much as I did back in 1982. It is epic in its simplicity and the themes, while subtle, speak to adults and youth alike. I almost can't wait for my annual reread next year. :)

Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning -- book 4 of her 5 part Fever urban fantasy series. A tantalizing addition to an already spellbinding story and while we learm more about the key characters in this alternate Dublin, we are left with more questions. I have to say, while I'm enjoying the series this puts a lot of pressure on the final book to tie up loose ends to and answer all the little questions that have been asked along the way. I sincerly hope KMM is up to the challenge!

A Doom With A View by Victoria Laurie -- Psychics, murder and mayhem, oh my! This book is part of a mystery series by a well known psychic. I didn't know that when I picked it up and I found the book to be well written as far as the mystery went and a little distracting with the psychic portion of the show. I recommend the series to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries but won't likely be reading any more in the series myself. There just wasn't enough internal conflict for the main character for me.

Covet by J. R. Ward -- The beginning of her new Fallen Angels series...

Books Read in September

Destined for an Early Grave by Jeaniene Frost -- The lastest book in the Cat and Bones saga. Nice twists, great developments and a wonderful way to bring in some backstory without bogging the book down. Paranormal Romance.

Darkfever, Bloodfever, Faefever by Karen Marie Moning -- Rereading the Fever series as I eagerly await book 4 from the library. While not literary genius, these books are full of great storytelling and world building and have earned a place on my keeper shelf. Urban Fantasy.

The Accidental Best Seller by Wendy Wax -- What happens when four writers band together to help the flagging career of one? Well, you get an unexpected best seller with unanticipated consequences. Women's Fiction.

Double Play by Jill Shalvis -- Baseball, journalism and hot chemistry make this book a must read. Contemporary Romance.

One Reckless Summer by Toni Blake -- Returning home has never been so hard or so rewarding. At turns sexy and poignant. A great summer read by Toni Blake. Contemporary Romance.

Storm Watch by Jill Shalvis -- An excellent story by Jill! A great blend of drama and sexual tension in a brief word count. Jill blows me away.

The Inn at Eagle Point by Sherryl Woods -- I don't usually read sweeter stories but this was a great set up to a series about a family and all the drama that comes with being a part of a family of strong willed people. A nice set up and thank you Kelli for recommending it to me!

Demon Angel by Meljean Brook -- Demons, angels, nosferatu, halflings, oh my! A great beginning to a series that takes Good vs. Evil to intriguing new levels. I'm definitely going to be reading more of Meljean's series, you can bet on that!

Books Read in August

Best laid plans and all that. *sigh* I had planned on updating this last night but since my 15 year anniversary was last Thursday and we went out of town a few things landed low on the task list.

As you can see, August was a high reading month. A lot of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance. Why? Because I like things that scare me or challenge my perceptions. Hence the reason I really liked Season 1 of Supernatural. *grin*

Branded by Fire by Nalini Singh -- The latest installment of her Psy/Changling series brings up the question of interracial love in a fresh way. If you've enjoyed previous books, you'll love this one. I believe it is the 6th book in the series.

City of Souls by Vicki Petterssen -- Book 4 of her acclaimed Signs of the Zodiac series had some interesting twists I totally did not see coming. Makes me very curious about book 5, that's for sure! Well done!

The Fire King by Marjorie M. Liu -- Not my favorite Dirk & Steele novel but very interesting and part of it takes place in my adopted home state. Anything by Marjorie is still worth the read. I'm just not sure what the title has to do with the story. Perhaps I need to reread it. *grin*

The Mommy Plan, The Baby Plan and Whose Child by Susan Gable -- I read quite a few contemporary romances in August. The books by Susan Gable were enjoyable and thought provoking. She's now on my authors to watch list. I love it when my favorite genres make you think. Mind candy - I think not! LOL.

People of the Book by Geralidine Brooks -- A wonderful mix of contemporary and historical as one woman searches out the meaning of who she is while exploring the people who have come before.

So Enchanting by Connie Brockway -- A wonderful historical romance that uses a touch of magic to explore greed, prejudice and love.

Halfway in the Grave, One Foot in the Grave, and At Grave's End by Jeaniene Frost -- Urban Fantasy meets romance in this intriguing series about a half human, half vampire woman who happens to be a vampire hunter. Her relationships are the most intriguing parts of the series, especially the relationship she has with her mother and her vampire lover/husband. Yes, very interesting indeed. Books 1 and 2 were well done. Book 3 was a little off to me, but I'm happy to read Book 4 and see where the series is going to take me.

From The Hip by Susan Mallery -- The third book in her Lone Star Sisters series is perhaps the best of the three books. Much more emotionally gripping to me and we get an even deeper glimpse at the villain and his motivation. A great set up to October's release of the final book.

Practice Makes Perfect by Julie James -- Lawyers competing for a single partner slot at the law firm where they have worked for the last 8 years sets the foundation for this story about unrequited love. This was a fun read and a great contemporary romance. It had everything that made me smile, including a heroine who is able to admit she is wrong.

Books Read In July

Marrying The Captain by Carla Kelly -- Historical set in Plymouth during Napolionic wars. A great love story that centers around the resiliancey of the human spirit and just what can happen when you take fate into your own hands.

Darkness Calls by Marjorie M. Liu -- Book two of her Hunter Kiss series, this Urban Fantasy delivers lyrical angst, tragic hope and an aching look at what it means to truly be connected to another.

Covert Processes at Work by Robert Marshak --a great book on organizational change and the processes that get in the way.

Black Hills by Nora Roberts -- While some reviewers out there had a few harsh things to say about the book and the romance genre in general, I found the book to be well written and highly entertaining.

Start Me Up by Victoria Dahl -- A fun romp and a story that focuses on finding a future while letting go of what could have been.

Kuchiel's Dart by Jacqueline Carey -- Wonderful world building, excellent premise, sympathetic characters and plot lines that keep you wanting more. Just an amazing book.

Loving a Lost Lord by Mary Jo Putney -- A lovely return to MJP's historical roots. Not as angsty as some of her previous series, this book is a great story of finding one's self and discovering what you want is a lot simpler than you've made it out to be. Amnesia, suspence and the mixing of cultures make this story one not to miss.

The Madness of Lord Ian McKenzie by Jennifer Ashley -- A wonderful story of a man who is thought to be mad, but who has what I would call Aspberger's syndrome. We get some amazing insight into the mind of Lord Ian and begin to understand what is his "madness" and what are secrets he's holding to save his family. Another historical that is not to miss.

A Kid to the Rescue by Susan Gable -- A SuperRomance with a heart wrenching tale of healing. I haven't been too enthused about Harlequin's SuperRomance line as of late, but if this book is any indication, Susan Gable is an author to watch!

Books Read in June

Happy Canada Day!

June was off with a bang! I quickly read a few entertaining books and then life got busy and suddenly all my plans to read my way through the pile of books decorating my bedside table were shoved out the window. I think this is the fewest number of books I've read in a month ever. And that's just sad. Still, they were all great books and I'm glad I spent time with each and every one.

True Love & Other Disasters by Rachel Gibson -- A fun romp and vintage Gibson

Silver Falls by Anne Stuart -- Not what I would term romantic suspense, but a good suspense with some romantic elements. Loved the villian's point of view.

Burning Alive by Shannon K. Butcher -- A great start to a new paranormal series by Ms. Butcher. Her husband had better watch out. Shannon may end up with a following as big as Jim's! LOL

Lover Avenged by J.R. Ward -- Rehvenge's story is not to be missed. I was a little turned off by the hardcover price, but it was well worth it! More romance, great turning points for the BDB and the introduction of some twisty plots.

The Family He Wanted by Karen Sandler -- A Silhouette Special Edition and like all category romances, a quite read. Not my complete cup of tea since the heroine was really young and I'm not, but a well written escape nonetheless.

A Weaver Wedding by Allison Leigh -- Another Sihouette Special Edition and a great little story filled with strong characters, twisty plots, and, of course, a wedding. Another fun escape for a Sunday afternoon.

Finger Lickin' Fifteen by Janet Evanovich -- Gimme more Ranger! While I wasn't completely satsified with the 14th installment of the Stephenie Plum saga, the 15th book delivered pure mayhem and Burg fun. Not to mention a ton of Ranger. I ::heart:: Ranger. *grin*

That's it for June. I told you it was a low reading month. I'm hoping July picks up since there are so many good releases coming out in July. So many books and so little time...

Good Reads in May

This was published before I could update it this weekend. Sorry for being behind! It's been a slow month. I think I read more books but for the life of me I can't remember. So, this is my list for May. Here's hoping June is more productive.

Cesar's Way by Cesar Millan -- The Dog Whisperer's first book and an interesting look at how he developed his theories and practices around dog psychology.

Be The Pack Leader by Cesar Millan -- More a how to guide about understanding what your dog needs and how you, the dog owner, can meet those needs

One Hot Mess by Lois Greiman -- the fifth book in her Chrissy McMullen mystery series. While Chrissy and Ramierez don't exactly take their relationship to the next level, Chrissy does manage to get under his skin while investigating the death of an old friend for Ramierez's father.

Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis -- I love Jill! Her books are sexy and emotional and always entertaining. I cannot wait to read the next two books in this series about the wild Wilder brothers!

Under Her Skin by Susan Mallory -- The first book in Susan's Lone Star sisters series and was a great set up. I can't wait to read the rest of the series...but sadly must wait because the books aren't all out yet.

The Nanny's Secret by Monica McLean -- Monica Pradhan, who writes wonderful stories about the clash of cultures and generations in her book The Hindi Bindi club. A sequel, I'm told, is in the works. Before Monica wrote more literary fiction, she wrote three wonderful romance novels for Silhouette's Intimate Moments line. The Nanny's Secret was the last book she wrote for Silhouette and it was definitely a taste of the talent this amazing author has to put her readers through the wringer.

Books Read In April

Fragile by Shiloh Walker -- A wonderful gritty and hopeful book about love and healing in the face of danger and trauma. And yes, Shiloh made me cry!

Unseen by Nancy Bush -- the second book about the cult, The Colony, that was started in Wicked Game by Nancy and her sister Lisa Jackson. Creepy and well written.

Midnight Bayou by Nora Roberts -- This was a reread of a Nora favorite. Bayous, New Orleans and haunted mansions - this book has it all!

High Noon by Nora Roberts -- a reread of Nora's 2007 single title release. I read it to get ready for the Lifetime TV channel movie version of the book. It was still a good read, but not as great as I remembered.

Tribute by Nora Roberts -- another reread. Um, yes, I like Nora Roberts. And I probably wouldn't have reread so many in a row if it weren't for her Lifetime TV movies. I'm glad I did reread Tribute. The book was better the second time around.

Surrender A Dream by Jill Barnett -- Jill's second book and one of my friend, April's favorites. This was my first read through and I really enjoyed the story and the setting.

Duke of Shadows by Meredith Duran -- A gritty historical that takes place in India during 1857 and then fast forward to England a few years after. The story isn't light and definitely not a costume drama. A great debut novel!

Archangel Project by C.S. Graham -- An interesting look at remote viewing as a government program. Rife with danger, conspiracy and political intrigue, this was a quick read and I'm curious about future books in this series.

Smooth Talking Stranger by Lisa Kleypas -- Another wonderful contemporary novel by Lisa. Her historicals are gripping and entertaining, but her contemporaries completely suck me in.

Witch's Grave by Shirley Damsgaard -- The 6th book in Shirley's Abby and Ophelia mystery series opens up some new directions for the series and in Ophelia's growth as a character.

Books Read In March

Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh -- A wonderful new take on the vampire mythos and involved otherworldly creatues known in the book as angels. I can't wait to see where the series takes me. Very inventive and well written.

Talk Me Down by Victoria Dahl -- Victoria's first contemporary novel, this book explores what happens when a woman who feels she must hide her successful career as an erotic romance novelist from friends and family returns to the small, secluded town she grew up in, falls in lust, falls in love and falls back into the clutches of her stalker ex-boyfriend.

Hot by Julia Harper -- Elizabeth Hoyt's contemporary alter ego. A great read that are at turns hilarious and touching.

Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortensen --

Wicked Game by Lisa Jackson and Nancy Bush -- These two sisters combine their efforts for the first time in this book. As the beginning of a creepy, suspenseful series, it's a solid introduction to the mysteries of The Colony of Deception Bay. The second book, written by Nancy Bush, is due out in April.

Scandal in Copper Lake by Marilyn Pappano -- Book four of Marilyn's Calloway Brothers series, this books delves into prejudice and interracial relationships in a wonderfully introspective way. No preaching in this book. Just a solid love story between two people who are, in their own ways, both outcasts and the golden children.

Mosiac: Pieces of My Life So Far by Amy Grant -- A touching and honest reflection of pieces of Amy Grant's life and how both the good and the bad shaped her into the woman she is today.

Got Your Number by Stephanie Bond -- Stephanie's second romantic suspense. It's been sitting in my To-Be-Read pile since it's release in 2001 and now that I've read it, I wonder why I wated so long.

Books Read in February

Pride by Rachel Vincent -- I love Rachel Vincent's voice and her unique and well detailed world. This is the third book in her Werecat series and I believe a fourth book is coming out this summer. I sense a reread in my near future!

The Lost Recipe for Happiness by Barbara O'Neal -- Also writing as Barbara Samuel and Ruth Wind, Barbara O'Neal writes a wonderful story about family and forgiveness and love in the most unexepected of places.

Healing Waters by Nancy Rue -- This is the second book in Nancy's adult fiction series. Inspirational but not in-your-face religious or overly sentimental. I enjoyed the conflicts of the characters and the real world in which the story was portrayed enough that I'm seeking out the first book from the library.

Dark of Night by Suzanne Brockmann -- The latest book in SB's Troubleshooter series, this was full of action, wonderful characters and even though there is some controversy regarding some of the h/h pairings, I found this to be a solid and enjoyable read.

Where Serpents Sleep by C.S. Harris -- Book four of the Sebastian St.Cyr series. These books just get better and better! I hope the author is going to continue the series and that I don't need to wait too long before I can read more!

The Villa by Nora Roberts -- This was a reread for me. When I can't figure out what to read, I reach for a Nora. And while I have read this particular book many times since it came out in 2001, I always enjoy this story. Maybe it's the wine, maybe it's the foray to Italy. Or maybe it's the reluctant hero. Either way, I'm glad I reread this book in February.

Northern Lights by Nora Roberts -- This book has been optioned and is being made into a movie that will be aired later this spring on Lifetime. It's been a while since I read it I decided to refresh my memory. It's a good book! I had forgotten some of the complexities and, as always, La Nora delivers the description with finese!

True Colors by Kristin Hannah -- Kristin's stories have always been laced with emotion and make the characters work for their happy ending. True Colors is no different. Three sisters struggle to find love and acceptance and coming to terms with the past. Heart wrenching and you will need tissues. In a good way.

Her Sexiest Mistake by Jill Shalvis -- I knew I had read this book previously but I couldn't remember the plot. Since I was doing a book purge, I decided to reread this story before determining if it was a keeper or not. Loved it! Again! Jill has this wonderful way of tugging at your heart while making you laugh. The story is sexy and poignant and touching, often at the same time.

Stand By Your Hitman by Leslie Langtry -- The third book in her Greatest Hits series, this book is about Missy (Mississippi) Bombay. My only irritation with the book was the stereotypical way Canadian media was portayed. An easy and fun read.

Books Read in January

When Gods Die by C. S. Harris -- The second installment of the Sebastian St. Cyr series. I loved the incorporation of the Prince Regent in the storytelling.

Why Mermaids Sing by C. S. Harris -- Book Three in the Sebastian St. Cyr series and the series gets better and better.

Fish Out Of Water by MaryJanice Davidson -- The last Fred the Mermaid book and a lot of fun.

Bound by Flame and Bound By Light by Anna Windsor -- Books 2 & 3 of the Sybil series. Good stories and an interesting addition to the paranormal romance genre.

Affair by Amanda Quick -- A fun historical read that made me remember why I used to read Amanda Quick.

Eye of Heaven by Marjorie M. Liu -- Part of the Dirk & Steele paranormal romance series, this book falls in the middle of the series. Now I want to reread the entire series, not just this book.

What I Did For Love by Susan Elizabeth Phillips -- SEP's newest book. Almost vintage SEP and worth the wait!

Glitter Baby by Susan Elizabeth Phillips -- An author's edition of SEP's 1980's era novel. Very epic and well done, but I like the original better. :)