Archangel's Viper (Guild Hunter #10) by Nalini Singh

For Preface

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33852961-archangel-s-viper?from_search=true

This review has minor spoilers – none that should hinder your reading

I had been looking forward to this book since forever! It’s finally here!

Sorrow and Venom have appeared briefly at different points throughout the series but we hardly know anything about them. (Not like Illium and Aodhan…who we get small glimpses of as the series progresses)

Archangel’s Viper gives a deeper look into who Venom and Holly/Sorrow really are. (As always Singh doesn’t disappoint)

The book starts off with Venom coming back to New York around the same Raphael and Elena leave for Lumia to attend a Cardre meeting (Archangle’s Heart). Honestly it wasn’t a surprise seeing Venom paired up with Holly/Sorrow…I did notice some chemistry between all the banter they both indulged in.

For me, Venom has been the most mysterious character after Naasir. With his snake-like ways and prime suits…you literally have Tall, Dark and Handsome! Oh and let’s not forget what a smartass he is.

“Do you have infrared vision?" Interest glittered on his face.

Venom smiled, the curious reaction a far preferable one to quivering fear or horror. "You'll have to court me with roses and diamonds before asking such intimate questions."

Vivek snorted. "It's just like working for the Guild--place is full of smartasses.”

Holly has also grown up into a woman, having settled in with her family and is not having any more suicidal thoughts. However, as always with Singh, deeper and more complex emotions are involved and all is not well…Holly is hiding some surprising secrets. Okay so the part about Uram’ attack and what she has become is a little repetitive…but who can blame her, no one likes to be caged. Well at least she gives as good as she gets!

“They let you drive now?" he said in a wondering tone of voice calibrated to get under her skin. "I leave for a couple of years and miss kitty's first steps. Did anyone take photos for the baby album I sent you?"

"It's full of pretty pictures." Holly bared her teeth at him in a caricature of a smile. "Honor is a little concerned about how I keep drawing you with your head cut off," she said in a deliberately thoughtful tone, "but an artist must follow her instincts.”

“Oh, Hollyberry, I’m deeply touched that you couldn’t get me out of your head”

The banter between Venom and his “Kitty” certainly keeps one on their toes and the whole mysterious setting adds spice to the proceedings. My favorite part is when they compare who’s poison is stronger…I mean seriously!

“It’s all true.” Venom’s hair lifted up in the wind coming through his open window, his profile so astonishingly perfect that her breath caught for a second. “I’m deadlier than the deadliest snake in the world, with the ability to impact strong immortals. But you’re not too far behind.”

 “Try being used as a chew toy by an insane archangel,” Holly said with a grim smile. “It does wonders for your poison, I hear.”

I felt that Holly tried hard to deny her attraction to Venom but in the end they just give into the connection. It’s the same with Venom…seeing how ”annoying Holly was high on his favorite things to do.”

Venom’s life before becoming a vampire is also explored and his more human emotion come to light and that is what I like about all Nalini Singh’s characters...all of them have been shaped by their past experiences and that is what makes them real .

Honestly, after finishing this book, I’m now even more curious about how Illium’s and Aodhan’s relationship will evolve. Honestly I am not too keen on shipping them together because I think female intervention is needed but I guess we will just have to wait for the next book and discover what Singh has in store for us next!  

Burn for Me (Hidden Legacy #1) by Ilona Andrews

Warning 18+ Only

For the Preface

Goodeads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20705702-burn-for-me

I had heard of Ilona Andrews before but I hadn’t read any of her books before. This one seemed interesting so I gave it a try. Burn for Me was positively delightful! The world created by Ilona Andrews was very original and the characters were absolutely hilarious.

The premise – a serum that was used to reveal the different types of magic inherent to humans and when the serum was destroyed, families used genetics to pass magic onto their descendants. Some families with superior magic go to great lengths to protect their bloodline and increase their magical power. Add in military, current technology and you have a very dynamic world.

Nevada is a bit different from all the other MCs I have come across. She is straightforward and principled but not in a stuck up way. Her responsible nature was born from the duty of having to keep her family afloat. Her snarky ways, however, keep the reader entertained.

Add in Mad Rogan, the lethally-hot mass murdering hero, who happens to be the head of one the most powerful magical families in Houston. The sizzling hot chemistry between the two kept popping up in the book…and of course so did their ‘loving’ banter!

“So instead of talking to me, asking for my credentials, or doing any of those things a normal person would do, you decided to assault me and chain me in your basement?”

He shrugged a, slow, deliberate movement. “It seemed like the most expedient way to obtain the information. And let’s be honest, you weren’t exactly harmed. I even took you home.”

“You dumped me on my doorstep. According to my mother, I looked half dead.” “

Your mother exaggerates. A third dead at most.”

 I stared at him. Wow. Just wow.

Another one! I couldn’t help myself…I loved their banter!

“I wanted you to stop.”

“I was encouraged by you breathlessly moaning my name.”

 I spun on my foot. “I wasn’t moaning your name. I was shrieking in alarm.”

“That was the sexiest throaty shrieking I’ve ever heard.”

“You need to get out more.” 

The scenes with the family gave me the warm fuzzies and I adored their protective nature for each other. Another character I was fascinated by – was Grandma – who was a total hoot. With her connections and badass past, she captured my attention in a moment.

I jumped. “How long have you been there?”

“Long enough. That man means business.”

All my words tried to come out at once. “I don’t . . . what . . . asshole! . . . screw himself for all I care!”

“Aww, young love, so passionate,” Grandma said. “I’m going to buy you a subscription to Brides magazine.”

(Yup, Grandma knows best!)

This book is action-packed with a villain to catch and a mystery to unravel. What more does one need! I can honestly say that Ilona Andrews stole my heart and now I have to check out her other books plus complete this series. The completely shocking epilogue has questions that need to be answered!

Angels' Blood (Guild Hunter #1) by Nalini Singh

Warning 18+ Only

For Preface

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3819326-angels-blood

So this book was recommended to me by Goodreads and at first I was a bit unsure – whether to read it or not, considering that my view on vampires was shaped by Twilight Saga (Not that it was bad but too much drama at some points)

But as they say…don’t judge a book by its cover! I absolutely adored this book. Nalini Singh took the concept of angels & vampires and made it her own – painting an entirely new world where angels made vampires. And where vampire hunters like Elena don’t go about killing the vampires, instead they return them to the angels who monitor these vampires for the 1^st hundred years of their immortality.

Elena is one of the rare hunters who can detect vampires by smell. She is smart and feisty with a never ending curious nature. And I absolutely loved her sense of humour.  

"Explain why you flashed not only a knife but a gun? I hope to God you didn't actually use either of them without authorization because if the VPA gets ahold of it, we're screwed."

Elena rubbed the back of her neck. "Exigent circumstances. He was trying to make me his bed buddy. I declined. He gave chase."

…

Sara held up a hand. "How, exactly, did you 'decline' his offer?"

"By slitting his throat.”

And then there is the Archangel of New York, Raphael – one of the 10 in existence. Being so powerful and having lived for centuries, he has little regard for humans. He’s an arrogant being, sometimes turning cruel to perform his duty. Elena somehow manages to get under his skin and as the book progresses, we seen him open up emotionally. The chemistry between them is not only hot but also (intellectually) very fascinating – in terms of how different their courtship is!

“The bastard kissed her. She was so mad, she bit him hard enough to draw blood. Raphael pulled back, lip already beginning to swell.

 “We are no longer even, Elena. You’re now in debt.”

“You can deduct it from my slow and painful death.

The other characters in the book also made their presence known, having distinct personalities. It was interesting to see characters whose loyalty to their friends was so absolute. The members of the seven – Dmitri and Venom, for example, made it constantly known that Elena’s weakness as human was too big a chink in Raphael’s armour.

“How long have you been with Raphael?”

“You ask a lot of questions for a dead woman.”

“What can I say? I prefer to die well-informed.” -Venom and Elena

What I like the most was that the plot and the courtship between Elena and Raphael went hand in hand. They didn’t forget their values and reasons in the mist of the steamy romance. Another thing I admired about Nalini Singh was how she gave each character a background – their past playing a big influence on who they were in the present.

The twist in the end is very surprising and I am also curious to know what kind of demons are these characters hiding. It’s like getting to know a person, each piece adding to the whole puzzle until you finally discover who they truly are and you fall in love with them all over again. I, for one, will definitely be following this series wholeheartedly!

First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson #1) by Darynda Jones

For the Preview

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8788554-first-grave-on-the-right

The first words that come to mind…where have you been all my life!

This book is like one of those rom-coms you watch with your girlfriends at a pajama party. Charley Davidson is sarcastic, witty and absolutely hilarious. Oh, and let’s not forget all the ill-timed inappropriate thoughts she entertains us readers with. 

“Did you get checked out?”

“Yeah, by a hot blond who sat in the corner of the bar and made googly eyes at me.”

“I meant by a doctor.”

“No, but a balding yet bizarrely hot paramedic said I’d be fine."

“Oh, and he’s an expert?”

“At flirting.”

Charley is ‘the’ Grim Reaper – she can see the dead and her job is to guide them ‘to the light’. Add to the mix – the cases she has to solve to help her Uncle Bob who is a detective and the ever mysterious and confusing Reyes (…did I mention he’s the son of Satan).

“But, you're his son," I said, trying really hard to hate him. "You're the son of Satan. Literally."

"And you are the stepdaughter of Denise Davidson."

Wow. That was a bit harsh, but, "Okay, point taken.”

Charley Davidson lead a very interesting life. And with her sidekick Cookie and Swoops  - the preferred person to irritate (a must have, really!), it never gets boring!

There are times in the book when I was slightly confused as to what is happening but in the end everything becomes clear.

I absolutely loved all the sass and the way Charley handled the departed – from Angel to the Demon Child. 

“Can I jump in your body and make out with my wife through you?”

I fought a grin. “It doesn’t really work that way.”

“Then can you just make out with my wife and pretend I’m in your body?”

“No.”

“I can pay. I have money.”

“How much we talking?”

The book leaves some questions unanswered with a new mystery waiting to be unraveled in the next book in the series. I started reading the second book as soon as I finished this one. I have a feeling this is going to be one of those addicting book series you just can't let go of until you reach then end!

Playing for Keeps (Neighbor from Hell #1) By R.L Mathewson

Warning 18+ Only

For Preface

Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11381643-playing-for-keeps?ac=1&from_search=true

This one had me laughing all throughout the book.

If you like sassy females who enjoy teasing their romantic interests, then you should definitely try this out!

Jason is like a charming child in a grown adult’s body – petulant and headstrong. Oh yeah! ... he is also completely obsessed with food – which is totally hilarious!

“I’m hungry,” Jason grumbled as he stared at the empty plates on his small coffee table.

Brad groaned, “You practically ate both plates of cookies. How in the hell are you hungry?”

Jason shrugged leaning back in his chair to watch the game. “I just am. Leave me the hell alone I’m a growing boy, damn it!”

“Yeah, a growing thirty-one year old boy,” Brad mumbled.

“I’m still growing damn it so shut the hell up and feed me!”

“Order something and stop bitching!” Brad snapped.

“You order something. I’m too weak to move.”

He is a good guy at heart though it may not seem so in the beginning. Jason is a bit full of himself but he grows more mature as he slowly develops feelings for Hayley.

Hayley, who was shy in the beginning, emerges out of her shell – ‘thanks to Jason’s friendship'. Their interactions are very adorable and I admire the way Hayley handles the storm that is Jason.

He glared accusingly at her while he made short work of his clothes.

"You didn't wake me up."

She rolled her eyes as she speared a piece of sausage with her fork.

 "I did wake you up. Three times in fact. Each time you threw something at me and went back to sleep."

Jason gaped at her. "And you gave up? You know our routine, woman. You have to keep at it until I'm forced to get off the bed to find something to throw at you.”

I don’t think I have ever laughed so much while reading a book! It’s a quick and light read and has some real swoon worthy moments. You are guaranteed to enjoy yourselves thoroughly!!

First Year (The Black Mage #1) by Rachel E. Carter

For the Preface

Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33897359-first-year

It was an unexpectedly interesting book. Set in the Academy, where students with varying magical potential go to compete and try to earn one of the 15 robes of apprenticeship – 5 for Alchemy, 5 for Restoration (Healing) and 5 for Combat.

We have Ryiah who arrives with her twin brother, Alex at the Academy in hopes of earning a black robe (Combat). Being lowborns, they face a big disadvantage in the face of trained nobles. To make matter worse, there is also Prince Darrin, a confusing and condescending jerk who makes Ryiah’s head spin.

“I would join Combat or die trying... A fine choice of words. What had been meant as a melodramatic proclamation was now to be my intended irony.” - Ryiah

Ryiah is very easy to relate to. She is being strong-willed, brave and hardworking. However, she is no one special, as compared to the other students at the Academy (rare in YA fantasy) and is just trying very hard to fulfill her dream and earn a robe. Throughout the entire year she struggles with professors and students (better than her) trying to discourage her efforts. I love how she never gives up in the face of overwhelming odds and doesn’t hesitating to ask for help.

"You really think the way to charm me into helping you is by insult?" Darren was no longer frowning, and I had the distinct impression he was enjoying the debate. I glared. "Would you prefer me to lie like every one of your blindsided subjects?" He didn’t bother to hide his grin. "It would be a nice change.” – Darren & Ryiah

Darren, the non-heir, also made it to my list of favorite characters in this book. A very intriguing character – he was cold, aloof but freakishly smart. He was truly the definition of the big bad wolf. I loved how he was constantly pushing Ryiah, trying to get a rise out of her and even helping her from time to time – ‘because he sees potential in her’.

“You will thank me one day for not filling your head with false compliments. Adversity teaches one more than flattery ever will.” - Darren

Ryiah and Darren had a complex relationship, bordering between hate and friendship. It was done very subtly, the slow connection between two – I never felt that it was forced or obvious. It may be just because I’m a total sucker for love/hate relationships, but I absolutely loved Ryiah and Darren’s interactions. Their romance was not very prominent, however that is understandable as both the characters have yet to fully trust each other.

"You can't just give someone advice and then not show them how to use it!" I seethed. "It's not advice if it doesn't help them!"

Darren balked. "Well, I certainly wouldn't give it to the girl that has tried to get tossed out of this place not once but twice now—oh, and let's not forget your most inglorious moment, when you tried to light me on fire!" - Darren & Ryiah

The other characters as well – Alex, Ella, Ruth – also develop over the year and have their own subplots – adding to the whole story. The main character – Ryiah – is not only surrounded by friends, enemies and rivals but also other love interests adding to the complexity of both the plot and her character itself.

The only criticism I can offer is that the readers are left clueless about the world beyond the Academy’s walls. However that didn’t bother me at all while I was reading the book. As for the plot, it does get a bit repetitive with the practice battles and finally the trials.

The book is not open ended but it leaves you wondering what’s going to happen next. All in all, the book captures the reader’s attention with its fast pace and leaves the reader with a sense of curiosity - about how these characters will develop and what is the end game of the series itself.

The Unwanted Wife by Natasha Andrews

Warning: 18+ Only

For the Preface
Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16056862-the-unwanted-wife?ac=1&from_search=true

This review contains minor spoilers - none that hinder you reading experience

I found this book purely by chance and man did I discover a jewel! Theresa blew my mind – quite literally! My feminist-self couldn’t help but be extremely proud of that girl.

If you like angsty books…then this one is definitely for you!

For 18 months, Alessandro (Sandro) and Theresa have been in a loveless and emotionless marriage until finally Theresa puts her foot down and asks for a divorce.

“I refuse to let you walk all over me anymore. Its time you started showing me some respect!” - Theresa

But Sandro refuses! And why won’t he agree to the divorce?

(But I won’t spoil that for you… :P)

So Theresa puts up a fight to get what she wants - out of this marriage. And of course Sandro tries to persuade her otherwise.

“I thought we could have lunch together…go out somewhere. We haven’t done that in a while”
“Try never”, she half-laughed incredulously

Call it arrogance…but I absolutely loved watching Sandro grovel and struggle to regain her trust and her love.

“You have never been my husband. A husband loves, honours and cherishes! A husband is a lover and a champion… Look into the next room if you want to see what a real husband is, because you are no such thing!”

There is drama yes but not the sort that makes you cringe. I loved how Natasha Andrews drew out Sandro’s feeling little by little…letting both Theresa and me discover the true man behind that emotionless façade.

"I can't go back to being the naive girl who loved you with all her heart."
"But maybe...the woman who replaced that girl could find a way to love the flawed man she'd once placed on a pedestal he had no business being on?"

We also finally get a glimpse into Sandro’s head and why he was - literally - a walking contradiction. This was one of those books (for me anyway) that leaves this warm tingling feeling inside long after you have finished it. There is a lot of passion involved with their chemistry sometimes spiraling out of control…but in end you as a reader also feel this contentment inside when the two leads finally get their HEA.