Vowed to the Vulture God by Ruby Dixon [Review]

Vowed to the Vulture God (Aspect and Anchor #5) by Ruby Dixon
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: March 17, 2026

Aspect and Anchor
0.5. The King's Spinster Bride
1. Bound to the Battle God
2. Sworn to the Shadow God
3. Wed to the Wild God
3.5. The Half-Orc's Maiden Bride
4. Servant to the Spidae
4.5. The Sea-Ogre's Eager Bride
5. Vowed to the Vulture God - Paperback | Kindle

Ruby Dixon
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The Vulture God of Aos needs a partner.

Or more accurately, a watchdog. It's my job to escort him through the phenomenon called the Anticipation. If I make sure he stays alive until the very end, the fates will save my brother's life.

Of course I say yes. Who wouldn't?

I expected Kalos to be repugnant, not an elegant, world-weary man with silvery hair and tired green eyes. I expected him to be cruel and uncaring. As we get to know each other, I find that his caustic commentary shields a soft heart that's been betrayed too many times before.

He's used to everyone hating him. He doesn't know how to handle love, or understanding. He doesn't know what to do when I don't turn away from him, and kiss him instead.

Most of all, Kalos doesn't know that I'm doomed to leave his side, no matter how this ends.

Thoughts on Vowed to the Vulture God: Another human from the regular world has been chosen to help an aspect during the Anticipation on Aos and Elsie does what she needs to do. Which makes it sound easy, but it's FAR from that. Elsie's just a regular lady trying to make ends meet in her world when she's dumped in a place she doesn't know with a god who doesn't care if he survives what's coming.

Kalos's aspect isn't the easiest one to deal with (who would be, really? Arrogance? You could just challenge him to do something by saying you didn't think he COULD do it and he'd fall all over himself to prove you wrong). Elsie has to push him into taking care of himself (not that he needs to do much since he doesn't eat or sleep, but moving out of the path of the advancing army is maybe a little important). She has to do her best to coax him into caring for those around him. Which is...well, he doesn't care. I mean, that's literally his thing. But Elsie soldiers on. Because what are the alternatives?

That said, Kalos does care. At least as much as this aspect can. He might be terrible at showing it, but Elsie gets him moving. He trusts her to lead them to wherever they're going next. He hates being forced into the mortal world during the Anticipation, but Elsie worms her way under his shields with her kindness and patience and boundless optimism and soon he's dreading leaving her. On the plus side, once he'd back in his realm they can be together. Or so he thinks. But Elsie's bargain with Fate has a different ending in store for them.

I honestly adore this world and these arrogant gods who are being forced to lean on their humans during their walk in the mortal realm. I know we've met at least one of all the aspects now, but there are still so many stories that can still play out (Seth! What is UP with that guy??). Aos is big and messy and I'd love to see where these characters take us.

My Boyfriends Are All Monsters by Kimberly Lemming [Review]

My Boyfriends Are All Monsters (Scared Sexy #6) by Kimberly Lemming
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 25, 2025

Scared Sexy
1. Hot for Slayer
2. Falling
3. Spicy Little Curses
4. Space Vampire
5. Beautiful Nightmare
6. My Boyfriends Are All Monsters - Kindle

Kimberly Lemming
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Lucy Sawyer’s wish for true love lands her in an enchanted town where the men are supernatural, the chemistry is off the charts, and everyone wants to date her. But they say that things that seem too good to be true usually are, and soon Lucy may need to decide if she’s willing to pay the cost of her happily ever after.

Thoughts on My Boyfriends Are All Monsters: No lie, I didn't know what to expect with this book (multiple partners? love rhombuses? something else?!?) and HA I LIKED IT SO MUCH. Sure, sure, Lucy's suitor had a few creepy moments (people talking in unison is terrifying, okay?!?), but it/he WORKED. So hard.

To start, Lucy is in a bad place when we first meet her. Both literally and figuratively, as it turns out. The boyfriend she's followed on this hiking trip has left her to her own devices (aka, to make her way up the mountain to their campsite on her own) while he (probably) doesn't do much to fend off the advances of his "friend" who (likely) wants to get in his pants. Abandoned in the woods, Lucy indulges in a bit of whimsy to make herself feel better and tosses a coin in a well as she makes a wish.

As one might expect, not only does something hear her wish, it sets out to make it come true. Now Lucy is in a Hallmark movie-worthy town surrounded by sexy men who are all giving her bedroom eyes. Which is not a terrible place to be, as it turns out. Even better, once she realizes what's happening (well, once she gets over her disbelief after realizing what's happening, really) she has a veritable BOUNTY of sexy goodness to indulge with.

Let's just say that her suitor is willing to give Lucy anything she can imagine. And then some.

Seriously, this one was so much fun. *thumbs up*

Wicked All Night by Jeaniene Frost [Review]

Wicked All Night (Night Rebel #3) by Jeaniene Frost
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: October 2, 2025

Night Rebel
1. Shades of Wicked
2. Wicked Bite
3. Wicked All Night - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series
(Find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Night Huntress
1. Halfway to the Grave

Night Huntress World
1. First Drop of Crimson

Night Prince
1. Once Burned

Jeaniene Frost
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

A gift from the gods...

Veritas and Ian have finally defeated their worst enemy, but the power it took to pierce through to the netherworld has unexpected consequences. Soon, Veritas is forced to rely on the last person she trusts---a golden deity named Phanes, who seeks far more than a temporary alliance with the beautiful vampire.

Can unleash hell...

But a supernatural escape soon pits Veritas and Ian against beings seeking to rule over mortals once again. Now, they must rally friends and foes alike--if the vampire council doesn't execute Veritas first. Plus, a wedge between Veritas and Ian threatens to destroy their love. Can they stand together against the unearthly powers about to be unleashed? Or does their love--and humanity--not stand a chance?

Thoughts on Wicked All Night: Man, Veritas and Ian just can't catch a break, can they? They defeated Dagon, but the demon left a parting gift and Ian is NOT doing well as a result. Which leads Veritas to agree to help Phanes because I'm pretty sure Veritas would have cheerfully agreed to burn down the world if it meant Ian would survive.

Except Phanes isn't the paragon of virtue he presents himself as. In fact, he kind of has that tricksy vibe going and he sort of left a few things out of his request for Veritas's help. Sure, Veritas was desperate enough to agree in the first place so she didn't have a whole lot of time to double check that what he offered was above board and all that. Let's just say that Phanes is kind of a jerk and leave it at that.

BUT...now that Ian is healed up and has regained his strength, he's not about to let his honey face anyone or thing on her own. So he does what he has to do (which is just as extreme as one would expect from Ian) and soon Veritas and Ian and trolling the underworld, fighting old gods, brokering deals between vampires and ghouls, and doing everything they can to fix the wrongs they had an unwitting hand in.

Yeah, these two have A LOT going on. Volcanoes and powerful friends banding together to stop imminent destruction and fundamental changes to the way the vampire council is run. Veritas and Ian are both making waves and THINGS ARE HAPPENING! (and MAN it was nice seeing all those familiar faces one last time!)

Wicked Bite by Jeaniene Frost [Review]

Wicked Bite (Night Rebel #1) by Jeaniene Frost
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 29, 2025

Night Rebel
1. Shades of Wicked
2. Wicked Bite - Paperback | Kindle
3. Wicked All Night

Related Series
(Find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Night Huntress
1. Halfway to the Grave

Night Huntress World
1. First Drop of Crimson

Night Prince
1. Once Burned

Jeaniene Frost
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Some promises are meant to be broken…

Veritas spent most of her life as a vampire Law Guardian. Now, she’s about to break every rule by secretly hunting down the dark souls that were freed in order to save Ian. But the risks are high. For if she gets caught, she could lose her job. And catching the sinister creatures might cost Veritas her own life.

Some vows are forever…

Ian’s memories might be fragmented, but this master vampire isn’t about to be left behind by the woman who entranced him, bound herself to him, and then disappeared. So what if demons, other Law Guardians, and dangerous, otherworldly forces stand against them? Come hell or high water, Ian intends to remind Veritas of the burning passion between them, because she is the only person seared on his mind—and his soul…

Thoughts on Wicked Bite: To protect Ian after his memories were fractured, Veritas sent him back to his happily hedonistic life. Since he couldn't remember the time they spent together, he'd go right back to his old self and wouldn't miss her. At least that was what Veritas's bruised heart told her.

As it turns out, Ian's feelings were deep enough that they couldn't be erased completely and it wasn't long before he was hunting down his errant wife while stirring up trouble as only Ian can. In other words, Ian wasn't going to be kept out of the fight against Dagon even if he didn't remember exactly what was going on.

Soon Ian and Veritas are verbally sparring with one another as they try to find the freed souls. Ian's convinced Veritas feels more than she'll admit (which is true). Veritas is trying her hardest not to get too tangled back up in Ian because she's convinced he doesn't feel for her what she does for him (which is false). Quite frankly, ALL Ian's vampire pals can see he's more than a little smitten and they're all floored by this. It's just that Veritas is way too close to the situation to see it herself.

Unexpected family connections, new abilities, betrayal, unleashed power, unexpected complications, a vampire with a powerful new skill set, and a Law Guardian who is having a REALLY hard time flying under the radar. To be fair, being married to Ian already makes it difficult to keep things on the down low. Ian with a purpose? Let's just say he's very determined vampire who isn't about to let his new wife skip out on their marriage. Even if it's for his own good.

Ride or Die by Hailey Edwards [Review]

Ride or Die (The Body Shop #5) by Hailey Edwards
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 20, 2025

The Body Shop
1. Fair Market Value
2. Amber Gambler
3. Midnight Auto Parts
4. Cheater Slicks
4. Ride or Die - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Beginner's Guide to Necromancy
1. How to Save an Undead Life

Black Hat Bureau
1. Black Hat, White Witch

The Potentate of Atlanta
1. Shadow of Doubt

Hailey Edwards
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Kierce sacrificed himself to save Frankie, and now it’s her turn to rescue him. Whether he wants her to or not. That means venturing into Abaddon, the land of the dead, and hoping she can locate him within its shadowed depths before Dis Pater notices his favorite toy is missing. But Dis Pater isn’t the only deity she has to fear.

Frankie’s father has learned of her journey down to his domain, and he won’t take no for an answer when he welcomes her into his home. As if one MIA parent materializing wasn’t bad enough, her mother arrives with her own emotional baggage in hand. Forget the perils of traversing the underworld. Navigating this family reunion just might be what kills her.

Thoughts on Ride or Die: Oh.My.Goodness. Kierce is in a bad place (literally) after sacrificing himself so he didn't hurt Frankie and Frankie is VERY NOT OKAY WITH THAT. The being in a bad place part. I mean, she's also not thrilled with the sacrificing because seeing the guy she has feelings for (regardless of how hard it is for her to admit to said feelings) getting hurt for her is difficult, but being a God Blood does give Kierce a measure of immunity against death so there is that.

On the downside of things, having an immunity to death also means a person can be hurt and tortured in horrible ways and not die. Which is (unfortunately) also a reality when you're the Viduus of a death god.

Anywho. Frankie doesn't care what she needs to do to get Kierce out, she's willing to do it. Well, provided her siblings are also kept safe. It turns out she's not cool with sacrifice on any level, except maybe her own. That said, Frankie also gets hit hard with a whole lot of truths she wasn't looking for. Like who her parents are. Which was really something she wasn't expecting to find out so the truth of that kind of threw her (not to mention that her dad is kinda a douchenozzle with some mad scientist aspirations and NO THANK YOU. Her mom's pretty cool, though). However, finding out her parentage also put some things into perspective. Like why her abilities are a little off center and why she has the type of bond she has with Anunit.

Let's just say this was a VERY satisfying ending. Frankie gets answers (so many answers). The bad guys get their comeuppance (so much comeuppance). The past is unveiled and feelings are admitted to. That last part might have been the hardest for Frankie. She's a lady who likes to play her cards close to the vest and finding out what she found out about herself had her questioning a lot of things that were and could be. Fortunately, her friends and family pulled her out of her head and made sure she knows she's loved. GOOD STUFF ALL AROUND!

Sanctuary by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Sanctuary (Roman's Chronicles #1) by Ilona Andrews
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 6, 2025

Roman's Chronicles
1. Sanctuary - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Grey Wolf
1. Magic Stars

Iron Covenant
1. Iron and Magic

Kate Daniels
1. Magic Bites

Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years
1. Magic Tides

Kate Daniels World
1. Blood Heir

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

It’s not easy serving Chernobog, the God of Destruction, Darkness and Death…especially during the holidays; and especially when you’re out of eggnog and one of your pesky, freeloading mythic creatures has eaten your last cookie.

Roman would like nothing more than to be left alone, but when a wounded boy stumbles into his yard and begs for sanctuary, Roman takes him in. Now elite mercenaries are camped out on his property, combat mages are dousing the house with fire, and strange priests are unleashing arcane magic. They thought Roman was easy pickings, just a hermit in the woods, but they chose the wrong dark priest to annoy. For while Roman might be patient, he is the Black Volhv, filled with the love of his terrible god. For his adversaries, it's a fight to the death, but for him, it's just another day in the neighborhood.

Thoughts on Sanctuary: The Black Volhv has always been one of my favorites of the individuals Kate can call upon when things turn south. For all he serves the God of Destruction, Darkness and Death, Roman's just this weirdly upbeat guy. Or maybe he just jokes through his pain. Whichever, I like him. I mean, his utter delight at being asked to officiate Kate and Curran's wedding was great, not to mention how he completely took charge of the wedding details.

But the wedding was in the past. This is about Roman trying to avoid family and holiday good cheer thanks to things. THINGS, guys. THINGS. Yeah, Roman has some baggage. It's not his fault. He didn't ask for it. But he has it. And he kind of needs to deal with it.

So. Roman's holiday brooding is interrupted by a boy asking for sanctuary. Which is odd in itself because folks don't usually show up at the Black Volhv's door looking for a safe harbor. Roman being Roman, he takes the kid in. Honestly, once you know about his menagerie of strays, it's not a shock. Plus, Roman is a good guy. He might serve a dark god, but darkness serves a purpose and Roman is good at what he does.

Anywho. A kid asks for sanctuary, Roman obliges, those after the kid show up, and Roman defends his territory. On the plus side, his defenses are top shelf and he gives the mercenaries every chance to disengage and look for easier prey before calling them up. On the downside, whoever wants the boy might be a new player (or an old one awakened, who knows, really?!?!) and they wield significant magic. Which Roman isn't pleased about.

A whole lot of magic, plenty of critters, some one on one time with a god or two, and a brooding Black Volhv who needs to deal with his past so he can be the best dark priest he can be. *thumbs up*

Small Magics by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Small Magics (Kate Daniels #0.5, 5.3, 5.9) by Ilona Andrews
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 1, 2025

Kate Daniels
0.5. A Questionable Client
1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
3.5. Magic Mourns
4. Magic Bleeds
4.5. Magic Dreams
Curran POV Collection
5. Magic Slays
5.3. Magic Tests
5.4. Magic Gifts
5.5. Gunmetal Magic
5.8. An Ill-Advised Rescue
6. Magic Rises
6.5. Magic Steals
7. Magic Breaks
8. Magic Shifts
9. Magic Binds
10. Magic Triumphs
Small Magics - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Grey Wolf
1. Magic Stars

Iron Covenant
1. Iron and Magic

Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years
1. Magic Tides

Kate Daniels World
1. Blood Heir

Roman's Chronicles
1. Sanctuary

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

An irresistible compilation of five previously published stories by the New York Times bestselling author of the Kate Daniels series; including Kate’s very first meeting with Saiman, some related adventures, two unforgettable “outside” excursions, and additional material from both Curran and Jim’s point of view.

A QUESTIONABLE CLIENT
In this ‘intro’ to the Kate Daniels world, we meet the extremely ‘shifty’ Saiman for the very first time, when Kate takes on the task of serving as his bodyguard to protect him from some very determined—and dangerous—Russian wizards.

RETRIBUTION CLAUSE
Saiman’s cousin, Adam—a frost giant and also an insurance adjuster—and his enigmatic partner, Siroun, set out on an impossible mission to enforce a client’s Retribution Clause; that is, to kill the person who killed her. But is their target even guilty? Magic and mayhem and a little personal chemistry will reveal the truth!

OF SWINE AND ROSES
A young adult story about a girl, a pig, some magic, and the worst date ever. Chad Thurman is a thug, who carries brass knuckles in both pockets and lays magic traps for intruders into "his" neighborhood. The last thing Alena Kornov wants to do is to go on a date with him. But when her family pressures her, she can't say no. Now the ice-cream is absent, the pig is running for its life, and we won't even mention the dead guy...

GRACE OF SMALL MAGICS
Grace has always known she wasn’t like everyone else and that her family has magic abilities. After flying to meet the head of Clan Dreoch in order to fulfill her families’ “duties” as servants, Grace finds herself in the middle of a mage clan war…

MAGIC TESTS
A short story in the Kate Daniels universe. Kate recruits her teenage ward, Julie, to search out a missing student whose location spell has her hidden somewhere on campus…

CURRAN POV
Everybody has a point of view…especially Curran Lennart, Beast Lord of the Free People of Atlanta—and Kate Daniel’s mate. Here’s what Curran was thinking while Kate was kicking butt and taking names from Magic Bites to Magic Bleeds.

Thoughts on Small Magics: I had read A Questionable Client and Magic Tests (and parts of the Curran POV) previously and, well, I genuinely enjoy spending time in Kate's messed up world (and head). So getting to dive into a couple of stories I hadn't read? GREAT FUN!

Retribution Clause - Adam and Siroun are just trying to close the book on their most recent insurance job and nothing's what it seems. I must admit, I like these two. They're both stuffing down some feelings and they both have a lot of hidden facets and I LIKE THAT.

Of Swine and Roses - Familial guilt is a heavy burden and when Alena's family drops it on her, she agrees to go on a date with someone she really doesn't want to go out with. The date's a disaster and that's BEFORE Alena has to figure out how to corner a pig. Magic, man. It's full of surprises.

Grace of Small Magics - It's easy to fight an attraction when there's a massive power imbalance. Well, maybe it's not so easy, but it's something that has to be done. When Grace is thrust into the middle of a sanctioned clan war and the head of the clan that's held her family's servitude for years pushes all her buttons, THINGS HAPPEN. Mostly of the bloody kind, but also maybe of the potential coupledom kind. *thumbs up*

Curran POV - I've read several of these scenes previously and they're just FUN. Seriously. The ones I hadn't read before? ALSO FUN. So, lots of fun with a heaping side of watching Curran needle Kate (and vice versa). YES!

Magic Triumphs by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Magic Triumphs (Kate Daniels #10) by Ilona Andrews
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 4, 2025

Kate Daniels
0.5. A Questionable Client
1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
3.5. Magic Mourns
4. Magic Bleeds
4.5. Magic Dreams
Curran POV Collection
5. Magic Slays
5.3. Magic Tests
5.4. Magic Gifts
5.5. Gunmetal Magic
5.8. An Ill-Advised Rescue
6. Magic Rises
6.5. Magic Steals
7. Magic Breaks
8. Magic Shifts
9. Magic Binds
10. Magic Triumphs - Paperback | Kindle
Small Magics

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Grey Wolf
1. Magic Stars

Iron Covenant
1. Iron and Magic

Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years
1. Magic Tides

Kate Daniels World
1. Blood Heir

Roman's Chronicles
1. Sanctuary

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Kate has come a long way from her origins as a loner taking care of paranormal problems in post-Shift Atlanta. She's made friends and enemies. She's found love and started a family with Curran Lennart, the former Beast Lord. But her magic is too strong for the power players of the world to let her be.

Kate and her father, Roland, currently have an uneasy truce, but when he starts testing her defenses again, she knows that sooner or later a confrontation is inevitable. The Witch Oracle has begun seeing visions of blood, fire, and human bones. And when a mysterious box is delivered to Kate's doorstep, a threat of war from the ancient enemy who nearly destroyed her family, she knows her time is up.

Kate Daniels sees no other choice but to combine forces with the unlikeliest of allies. She knows betrayal is inevitable. She knows she may not survive the coming battle. But she has to try.

For her child.

For Atlanta.

For the world.

Thoughts on Magic Triumphs: Kate and her father are sort of circling one another as they play the Wait and See game. Which means Kate know her father will eventually step in and try to take Atlanta from her and she has to find a way to stop him. Frankly, it seems like a tall order and all their options are not great. But Kate and Curran and their people aren't ones to give up so they keep fortifying and searching and making plans.

And then something new and terrible crosses their paths. Something bad enough that Kate is contemplating asking Roland to stand beside her as her ally. Which means things are DIRE.

As Kate attempts to unravel the mystery of what is harrowing them, Roland's cadre of assassins keep gunning for her kid. Plus, Curran is manifesting some new abilities. Kate's not going to stand for any of her family falling, so she has to deal with all those things while worrying about what's coming.

On the plus side, Kate and Hugh finally manage to meet in the middle. Well, sort of. Kate isn't happy to have Hugh near her at all and Hugh is...honestly, he's a changed man from the one he was when he was under Roland's thumb. I REALLY didn't imagine ever liking the guy, but I do. I like him.

A terrible enemy, big magic, assassins, bloodshed, family, the cutest cub imaginable, bigger magic, and Kate and Curran doing their best to make sure they all survive. MAN, this book brought the blood and battles in spades and, while I'm sorry to say goodbye to Atlanta, it was a VERY satisfactory ending.

Kingdom of Tomorrow by Gena Showalter [Review]

Kingdom of Tomorrow (Book of Arden #1) by Gena Showalter
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: August 14, 2025

Book of Arden
1. Kingdom of Tomorrow - Paperback | Kindle
2. Kingdom of Today

Gena Showalter
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Twenty-year-old Arden Roosa knows only Ourland. Two worlds split and stitched together, with broken pieces from each, statues of fallen gods, and heavenly artifacts that are worshipped…or feared.

But nothing is more fearsome than the night.

A strange madness haunts the darkest hours, turning innocents into gleeful killers. Arden does her best to stay safe, until she reads a book written about her life―The Book of Arden―and everything changes.

Forced to join Fort Bala Royal Academy, Arden is paired with the ruthless High Prince Cyrus Dolion. But while he trains her for combat against a mystical adversary, she can’t deny the sparks burning between them.

If her panic attacks and war games aren’t enough, Arden is also tapped to join the Tome Society, rumored guardians of an invisible library with books that foretell the future. But the more she learns about the society, the less she understands about Ourland, the gods…and the person she’s destined to be.

Thoughts on Kingdom of Tomorrow: We're diving into a dangerous world ruled by individuals who know more than they're telling and Arden Roosa is smack-dab in the middle of things. Not by choice, mind you, but because she could have either followed her dream or done what needed to be done to save her mother. For her, it wasn't a choice at all. So she's now at the royal academy learning how to fight the things that stalk the night.

To say she's out of her element might be an understatement. She's dealing with panic attacks, fellow trainees who are out to prove they're the best, and an inconvenient attraction to the High Prince. Who happens to be her instructor.

Plus, you know, there are the monsters. And SO MANY SECRETS. Arden has to sort through all she's learning to figure out what the truth is. She also has to unlearn a lot of what's considered common knowledge because the people in charge are less than forthcoming about the true threat they're facing.

Betrayal, lies, complicated family dynamics, secrets that have far-reaching implications, a High Prince who brings the heat, and a lady who has to learn she can do anything she sets her mind to. GOOD STUFF!

Graveyard Dog by Darynda Jones [Review]

Graveyard Dog (Charley Davidson #13.9) by Darynda Jones
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: May 28, 2025

Charley Davidson
1. First Grave on the Right
1.5. For I Have Sinned
2. Second Grave on the Left
3. Third Grave Dead Ahead 
4. Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet
5. Fifth Grave Past the Light
6. Sixth Grave on the Edge
7. Seventh Grave and No Body
8. Eighth Grave After Dark
8.5. Brighter Than the Sun
9. The Dirt on Ninth Grave
10. The Curse of Tenth Grave
11. Eleventh Grave in Moonlight
12. The Trouble with Twelfth Grave
13. Summoned to Thirteenth Grave
13.5. The Graveyard Shift
13.6. The Gravedigger's Son
13.7. The Graveside Bar and Grill
13.8. The Grave Robber
13.9. Graveyard Dog - Paperback | Kindle

Darynda Jones
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Michael Cavalcante has one thing on his mind when he knocks on Izzabel Walsh’s door at two in the morning, half-dressed and a bit toasted: fix the woman’s heater and get back to bed. He vows never to cover for his maintenance tech again, especially after he gets tased and knocked out with a frying pan for his efforts.

Izzy thought she was safe. She’d dyed her hair, changed her name, and moved 1,500 miles away, and still they found her. When a member of her ex’s motorcycle club knocks on her door in the middle of the night, supposedly to fix a perfectly good heater, Izzy panics. Not only have they found her, but they would soon discover she has a daughter. Aka, a weakness. Aka, leverage. She needs time to think. To plan. To figure out how to keep the sexy neanderthal quiet. But she has no idea how to, short of murder. Can she win him over to her side? Or will he be just like all the others once he finds out what she is capable of?

Michael has one chance to convince Izzy he doesn’t want to harm her or her daughter, but more than that, he wants to know who does. And why. And where he can find them. After all, how else is he going to make sure the two sprites, who have wound their way into his heart, are safe?

Thoughts on Graveyard Dog: It's always fun spending time in Charley's world where her tricksy daughter maneuvers people she believes will be needed in the upcoming battle on a game board only she can see. Admittedly, I don't KNOW only Elwyn can see it. Maybe others can too. But the powerful kiddo sees things and she puts things in motion to make those things come to fruition.

This time around, she KNOWS Michael and Izzy would be perfect for one another so she orchestrates a meeting between them. One in which Izzy brains Michael with a frying pan, ties him to her dishwasher, and makes plans to escape before anyone realizes anything is wrong. HA. Yeah, Michael's not thrilled with the braining part.

He is, however, enchanted by both Izzy and her too-wise-for-her-years daughter. Between Izzy's abilities and the walk-in setting up camp in her kiddo, he starts to get an inkling that maybe Elwyn had a hand in bringing them together. This is ultimately irrelevant since Izzy needs his help and he's not one to abandon people who need him.

A feisty spirit who might be older than they think, a kiddo who's good at trusting her gut, a bad guy with a birdhouse fetish, a man who is a protector to the core, and a lady who has a hard time trusting when good things happen to her. *thumbs up* all around.

Cheater Slicks by Hailey Edwards [Review]

Cheater Slicks (The Body Shop #4) by Hailey Edwards
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: May 11, 2025

The Body Shop
1. Fair Market Value
2. Amber Gambler
3. Midnight Auto Parts
4. Cheater Slicks - Paperback | Kindle
5. Ride or Die

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Beginner's Guide to Necromancy
1. How to Save an Undead Life

Black Hat Bureau
1. Black Hat, White Witch

The Potentate of Atlanta
1. Shadow of Doubt

Hailey Edwards
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Matty has lost his soul, and it’s up to Frankie to find it before his body gives up the fight for survival. But soon his isn’t the only life at risk from the soulless condition. The affliction is spreading from Thunderbolt, Georgia, into the beating heart of the French Quarter and right up to Madam Vionette Fontenot’s front door.

When Frankie returns to New Orleans in search of answers, she finds herself at the mercy of a god who covets her newfound powers as the guardian of the Alcheyvāhā. He makes it clear he’s willing to do whatever it takes to wield her for his own benefit. Even if it costs Frankie everyone she loves.

Thoughts on Cheater Slicks: When Frankie accepted the mantle of guardianship for the Alcheyvāhā, I don't think she could imagine the pot she was about to stir. She thought she was doing the right thing (and she was), but she's tipped the balances of power for some of the old gods and THINGS ARE ABOUT TO GET WILD! Or at least that's what it looks like.

First, however, she needs to figure out what's pulled Matty's soul from his body and what she needs to do to put him back together. Let's face it, if there's one thing Frankie is known for, it's her loyalty to those she considers family. She's not about to let Matty wither if there's something she can do about it. And when her mentor gets afflicted by the same condition, she is doubly motivated to figure out what's going on.

So she and her crew head out to New Orleans to pull the clues together. And if they have to deal with some seedy (and massively unwashed) individuals to get their answers, SO BE IT. Also, that information dealer was gross. Double also, she's sort of forced (by her innate sense of fairness) to forgive Harrow for past events and maybe that's not a bad thing.

On the downside, we see how deeply Dis Pater has his hooks in Kierce. Going back to Frankie's loyalty to those she cares about, I can't imagine she's not going to find a way to break that bond so Kierce can live free. Also, that ending with Kierce was rough. I know he can survive a lot, but OUCH.

All in all, a solid (and painful) entry in this glorious series. I'm always down with watching Josie terrorize those around her and see how Frankie does everything she can to protect those she loves. GOOD STUFF (except that painful ending, which was also good, just painful) ALL AROUND.

Daughter of Tides by Kit Rocha [Review]

Daughter of Tides (Born to Sea and Storm #1) by Kit Rocha
Format: ebook
Source: provided through NetGalley
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: March 14, 2025

Born to Sea and Storm
1. Daughter of Tides - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Bound to Fire and Steel
1. Consort of Fire

Kit Rocha
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Aleksi, the charming and charismatic god of love, is dying. But nothing can stop the Lover from completing his final quest: a dangerous diplomatic visit to a former adversary.

Setting sail for a mystical kingdom of ice, Aleksi is joined by Einar the Kraken, infamous pirate lord, and Naia, a sweet young water nymph. Intoxicated by the pair’s electric connection, Aleksi vows to enjoy his last days by playing matchmaker, pushing away his own desires for the sake of theirs. But he’s unexpectedly caught up in a raging game of seduction.

As the trio navigates turbulent seas and the political perils of the Ice Queen’s court, dark secrets reveal clues to one’s tragic past and another’s epic destiny. Aleksi’s powers spin out of control while love and lust run wild. And when enemies emerge from the shadows, the Lover is forced to make a choice. Will he give away his heart to save all that he holds dear?

Thoughts on Daughter of Tides: We were introduced to the Sheltered Lands and the Empire in Ash, Sachi, and Zanya's books. We were given  gods, dreamers, and a betrayal that rocked their world. The trio (along with the other gods) thwarted the Betrayer's plans, but things are still tense. Super tense. Like, diplomacy is needed at every turn and a quick escape is needed if the diplomacy fails.

Which is where Aleksi, Naia, and Einar come in. When Ash and his special someones need to help with a danger that has arisen elsewhere, the Lover, the Nymph, and the Kraken are tapped to continue the diplomatic mission in Gwynara's kingdom. That, as you might guess, comes with complications.

Aleksi is failing. He hides this from the other gods and most definitely from those traveling with him. Naia is new to the world and might not have a handle on the full breadth of her power (or so the others think). And Einar? Well, the big guy has secrets and those secrets might have secrets. Traveling to the island kingdom Gwynara rules is complicated for him on so many levels. After all, he has the secret he hasn't bother to share with the others regarding his connection to the island and he has so many feelings Naia invokes in him. Feelings which he isn't sure what to do with.

Which is where Aleksi comes in. Sort of. Aleksi has convinced himself playing matchmaker to these two is a worthy last task before he fades. Or whatever it is he's doing. So he sets them up and urges them together and somewhere along the way the two lovebirds start to see Aleksi in a different light. One that makes them protective and loving and NO ONE'S GOING TO TAKE HIM FROM THEM AS LONG AS THEY BOTH DRAW BREATH!

Oh, yeah. The Kraken and Nymph have feelings for one another AND for the Lover. And they're going to fight with everything inside them (of which there is much!) to keep him and their blooming relationship safe.

Hoo-BOY! I must admit these three are smoking hot and the world their moving through is amazing. I honestly can't wait to see where they go next!

The Dark Heart by Erin Kellison [Review]

The Dark Heart (Indulgence #4) by Erin Kellison
Format: ebook
Source: provided for review
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: January 22, 2025

Indulgence Series
1. The Stone God
2. The Night Blade
3. The Blood Chain
4. The Dark Heart - Paperback | Kindle
5. The Crimson Throne

Erin Kellison
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The gods need defenders, but Adom and Terah are fighting for a future of their own.

Through desperate trials, Terah and Adom have forged an unwavering partnership, but the secret they discover on their latest quest savagely rips them apart. While Adom struggles to escape the snare of Death's great web, Terah is forced to return to Aranos to confess ancient wrongs.

Disaster looming, Death commands Adom to wed his scion to forge a union capable of battling the menace to come. But Adom's heart belongs to Terah, and he will stop at nothing to reunite with her—even if it means burning Akolan to primeval dust.

Alone and besieged by challenges, Terah must confront her father's treacherous legacy. But the cost of power is high, and to fight her mounting enemies, she must pay with her humanity.

When at last their paths collide, Terah and Adom have become what their gods need: unchained weapons honed for war. As the foretold invaders breach the skies and chaos descends, Terah and Adom urgently need allies. But who can they trust when they suspect everyone, even the gods, of deception?

Thoughts on The Dark Heart: Terah and Adom might have started out with a slightly (HA) adversarial relationship, but things have changed. SO MUCH. Terah has challenged gods and she and Adom have been forced to rely on one another and it's sparked something that burns bright and hard. Then they're separated and now the two are willing to do anything to find one another again.

Literally anything. Terah has pledged to become the queen of the ghosts in exchange for the ghosts' help. Adom is being held prisoner in death's kingdom and will have to burn away his humanity in order to escape. Both of them fear what the other will think of these changes, but they're willing to go through with it in order to be reunited.

Which is definitely a good thing because these two are much stronger together than they are apart (and they're already pretty formidable in their own rights). With what's brewing on the horizon they need to be as strong as possible or their world might not survive.

A goddess attempting a coup, long memories, power, ghosts, dark places, the son of a god who is becoming so much more, and a woman who never expected she would be the driving force in saving her world. *thumbs up*

The Scarecrow's Queen by Naomi Lucas and Mel Braxton [Review]

The Scarecrow's Queen (Monster's Duet #2) by Naomi Lucas and Mel Braxton
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: December 1, 2024

Monster's Duet
1. A Gargoyle's Delight
2. The Scarecrow's Queen - Paperback | Kindle

Naomi Lucas
|Website | Amazon|

Mel Braxton
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Once, I was feared by all who gazed upon me. For the past century I have served, defending my crops in solitude, baring my scythe as an omen.

But when the crops aren’t seeded, I find myself standing over a field of dirt and weeds.

It is her fault.

The female who has inherited the farm. She might be the new queen of these lands, but in her wake, she brings only ruin.

So, I will scare her away. I will claim these fields, and she will learn to fear me!

Until one evening, she is attacked by the crows. She cowers behind me for protection, begging them to spare her life.

Her terror and desperation stir me into action...

Nobody, not even a god, is allowed to frighten what is MINE.

Thoughts on The Scarecrow's Queen: We're back in Elmstitch again. This time we have Delilah and Hollowstalk stirring things up. Delilah knows nothing of the supernatural contract she's just inherited along with her deceased aunt's farm. Hollowstalk is determined to keep the pact alive despite the new owner of his corner of Elmstich being woefully unaware of anything supernatural.

Let's just say that Delilah and Hollowstalk don't start out on the best foot. I mean, Delilah threw him in a dumpster. He didn't stay in the dumpster, to be fair, but her disregard for his abilities led to him becoming more than he was before so I guess their rough start was needed in order for the two of them to get where they needed to be.

Anywho. Delilah doesn't know what she's getting into when she inherits her aunt's farm. Hollowstalk doesn't realize he has the capacity to feel deep emotions for anyone. Much less a human woman who doesn't understand the legacy she's been granted. Yet somehow these two make things work. Delilah learns about the supernatural world around her and Hollowstalk learns to act human enough to interact with the human world.

A few scares, a little house reno, lots of crows, a dangerous god, a creature born of magic who is determined to do what he needs to do, and a lady who is at a serious crossroads in her life. Only she doesn't realize it's a crossroads until it's almost too late. *thumbs up*

Amber Gambler by Hailey Edwards [Review]

Amber Gambler (The Body Shop #2) by Hailey Edwards
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 23, 2024

The Body Shop
1. Fair Market Value
2. Amber Gambler - Paperback | Kindle
3. Midnight Auto Parts
4. Cheater Slicks
5. Ride or Die

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Beginner's Guide to Necromancy
1. How to Save an Undead Life

Black Hat Bureau
1. Black Hat, White Witch

The Potentate of Atlanta
1. Shadow of Doubt

Hailey Edwards
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The other family business at The Body Shop is slow after word gets out that Frankie had clients die—cease to exist?—on her watch. Considering they were dead to begin with, she understands why the news shook the spirit community’s faith in her, but it’s a hard hit to her bottom line.

When a spirit appears in her office, ready to sign a contract, she’s eager to please. Until she learns why he wants to hire her. He heard about her clients’ deaths, yes, but he also learned Frankie was instrumental in bringing their killer to justice.

The spirit’s human granddaughter has gone missing, and he wants Frankie to find her before it’s too late. Frankie’s no detective, but her schedule is wide open. The job is to save the girl, but with so many gods and monsters prowling the streets of Thunderbolt these days, she’ll be lucky if she can save herself.

Thoughts on Amber Gambler: Frankie's life is definitely complicated. Her body-borrowing business has taken a hit since she dealt with Harrow's uncle, she might be starting an almost-relationship with someone who's the PA to a death god, and she has no idea what she capable of from a magical perspective since her abilities seem to be pushing the boundaries of what she's used to.

Oh, and she's pretty sure Harrow has it in for her maybe-boyfriend and she has to keep a close eye on him whenever the two are near one another.

Yeah. Complicated. Investigating the disappearance of a young woman who's been living on the street is not exactly in her wheelhouse, but the spirit who hired her is desperate and Frankie has time on her hands. As it turns out, Frankie's experience on the streets when she was younger help her understand the kids they're trying to track down.

More than a few twists, a turn or two no one but Badb probably saw coming, an endearingly awkward individual with lots of power, ghosts, supernaturals, and Frankie trying to hold everything she cares about together when things start to fall apart. *thumbs up*

Candle & Crow by Kevin Hearne [Review]

Candle & Crow (Ink & Sigil #3) by Kevin Hearne
Format: ebook
Source: provided through NetGalley
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: August 12, 2024

Ink & Sigil
1. Ink & Sigil
2. Paper & Blood
3. Candle & Crow - Hardcover | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Iron Druid Chronicles
1. Hounded

Oberon's Meaty Mysteries
1. The Purloined Poodle

Kevin Hearne
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Al MacBharrais has a most unusual job: He’s a practitioner of ink-and-sigil magic, tasked with keeping order among the gods and monsters that dwell hidden in the human world. But there’s one supernatural mystery he’s never been able to solve: Years ago, someone cast twin curses on him that killed off his apprentices and drove away loved ones who heard him speak, leaving him bereft and isolated.

But he’s not quite alone: As Al works to solve this mystery, his friends draw him into their own eccentric dramas. Buck Foi the hobgoblin has been pondering his own legacy—and has a plan for a daring shenanigan that will make him the most celebrated hobgoblin of all. Nadia, goth queen and battle seer, is creating her own cult around a god who loves whisky and cheese.

And the Morrigan, a former Irish death goddess, has decided she wants not only to live as an ordinary woman but also to face the most perilous challenge of the mortal world: online dating.

Meanwhile, Al crosses paths with old friends and new—including some beloved Druids and their very good dogs—in his globe-trotting quest to solve the mystery of his curses. But he’s pulled in so many different directions by his colleagues, a suspicious detective, and the whims of destructive gods that Al begins to wonder: Will he ever find time to write his own happy ending?

Thoughts on Candle & Crow: Sigil agent Al MacBharrais has A LOT going on. So much. The guy is cursed, dealing with gods and other supernatural beings who like to push the boundaries of what they're allowed to do, and the possibility of ever retiring is just a pipe dream thanks to that aforementioned curse. And yet he's making things work.

He has Buck and Nadia, the Morrigan and Gladys and they're managing to keep on top of things. Sort of. I mean, sure, Nadia is probably starting a cult and Gladys is something that scares the other gods into toeing the line and Buck is a hobgoblin with all the quirks and pranks that come along with hobgoblinry and the Morrigan has a tendency to eat the eyes of people who cross her, but they're managing.

And Al? He's figuring things out. One step at a time and all that. He's getting closer to figuring out who cursed him and that particular journey has him crossing paths with a seer who gives him answers to the vexing trafficking problem he's run across back home. Which, in turn, is tangled up with an unpleasant man from Manchester. Seriously, Al has A LOT going on.

That said, this was a very satisfying end point. Al gets answers. Buck gets direction. Nadia finds her happy place (almost literally). The Morrigan redefines herself in a rather unexpected way. And Gladys...well, Gladys is a lady even the gods don't want to cross and she's happy with that.

A little danger, good whisky, gods and monsters, some very good dogs, magic, curses, the power of belief, and one aging sigil agent who's ready to start the next phase of his life. GOOD TIMES!

The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy by Megan Bannen [Review]

The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy (Hart and Mercy #1) by Megan Bannen
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: April 24, 2024

Hart and Mercy
1. The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy - Paperback | Kindle
2. The Undermining of Twyla and Frank

Megan Bannen
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Hart is a marshal, tasked with patrolling the strange and magical wilds of Tanria. It’s an unforgiving job, and Hart’s got nothing but time to ponder his loneliness.

Mercy never has a moment to herself. She’s been single-handedly keeping Birdsall & Son Undertakers afloat in defiance of sullen jerks like Hart, who seems to have a gift for showing up right when her patience is thinnest.

After yet another exasperating run-in with Mercy, Hart finds himself penning a letter addressed simply to “A Friend”. Much to his surprise, an anonymous letter comes back in return, and a tentative friendship is born.

If only Hart knew he’s been baring his soul to the person who infuriates him most—Mercy. As the dangers from Tanria grow closer, so do the unlikely correspondents. But can their blossoming romance survive the fated discovery that their pen pals are their worst nightmares—each other?

Thoughts on The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy: My girl Amanda recommended this book to me (with a there are "gods and zombie-like creatures and demigods and undertaking and funny family and a lovely romance. also letter writing.") and, GUYS, Amanda know what I like. Because this book? HIT THE SPOT.

When we first meet them, Hart and Mercy are...well, they snipe at one another. A lot. It started with their first meeting and it just kept going from there. They both think the other is infuriating and they might have the occasional fleeting thought about certain physical attributes they admire in the other, but they SHUT THOSE THOUGHTS DOWN QUICKLY. Because no.

Then Hart writes a letter for no other reason than to get his loneliness down on paper and it finds its way into Mercy's hands. And Mercy writes back. And Hart writes back. And soon they're sharing all sorts of things, never knowing the person on the other end is the person they like to needle when they meet face to face. And when the truth comes out (as truth eventually does), they both have to deal with fallout.

Plus, they have to deal with the fact that they've gone and frown FEELINGS for someone they never expected to have feelings for.

Throw in some danger, gods, family dynamics, zombie-esque creatures, a really awful way of gaming a system that shouldn't ever be gamed, more family dynamics, and even MORE danger and you have a really good book. But mostly you have Hart and Mercy figuring themselves out and growing into the people they want to be. Man, it was fun to watch.

Queen of Dreams by Kit Rocha [Review]

Queen of Dreams (Bound to Fire and Steel #2) by Kit Rocha
Format: ebook
Source: provided through NetGalley
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: July 14, 2024

Bound to Fire and Steel
1. Consort of Fire
2. Queen of Dreams - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Born to Sea and Storm
1. Daughter of Tides

Kit Rocha
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Ash waited three thousand years for a consort who could break the Betrayer’s chains. Instead of one lover, he found two: Sachi and Zanya—the primordial powers that embody creation and destruction, reborn as humans. Now, his ancient enemy has returned to threaten everything he loves.

In the wake of her dazzling manifestation, Zanya seethes with magic and restless energy. Her command of the Endless Void will be a potent weapon in the coming war. To harness it, she’ll need to embrace the darkness within—but the scars of the past are holding her back.

Sachi’s unprecedented connection to the Dream deepens, leading her beyond the veil of reality…and into the heart of the Betrayer’s stronghold. Torn from her lovers, Sachi must use all her wit and cunning to survive the Betrayer’s treacherous court. Because he doesn’t simply want her. He covets the slumbering power she possesses—and plans to take it for his own.

Even if it ends their world.

Thoughts on Queen of Dreams: You guys. YOU GUYS. Ash and Sachi and Zanya coming together in book 1 was so ridiculously good that I didn't think anything could top it. BOY WAS I WRONG. Because Sachi hadn't come into her power yet when things went down in book 1 and this is one unstoppably amazing trio when they're ALL firing on all cylinders.

But it took time for Sachi to believe in herself enough to embrace what she is. It took time and a separation from the two people who love her most. Seeing as she was dropped into the middle of the Betrayer's empire with only her wits and her training to survive and bring about his downfall, things were rough for a while. Rough for her AND for Ash and Zanya.

And the Betrayer? He was...awful. He surrounded himself with a twisted family and hammered his plans for a brighter future into something that became unrecognizable. His quest for bigger, better, best stripped away everything good from his land and his people. In the end Sachi had to choice but to dig deep and find herself.

While Sachi is working from the inside (as best she could), Ash, Zanya, and the rest of the High Court were preparing for war. Zanya needs to learn to control her powers. Ash is making plans. They're all prepared to do whatever needs to be done to end the Betrayer's reign in any way necessary.

Gods, monsters, newly awakened power, a twisted mirror court, and three individuals who have to hold tight to all their trust and belief in one another if they want to succeed.

The Phantom by Gena Showalter [Review]

The Phantom (Rise of the Warlords #3, Lords of the Underworld #16) by Gena Showalter
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: June 13, 2023

Rise of the Warlords
1. The Warlord
2. The Immortal
3. The Phantom - Hardcover | Kindle
4. The Wrath

Related Series:
(find all the reviews for the series under the first review)
Lords of the Underworld
1. The Darkest Night

Gena Showalter
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

As the son of a war god, Roux Pyroesis has suffered unending pain—he’s caused it, too, dispatching his foes with alarming ease. Now he’s tasked with cutting out the heart of a powerful queen who rules an ancient prison realm inhabited by the most vicious immortal females in existence.

Blythe the Undoing is a decorated harpy warrior determined to annihilate Roux, the invader who killed her beloved consort. Nothing will stop her. Even if she must trap herself for eternity by sneaking into the brutal realm and taking the crown, pitting herself against the merciless male she’s sworn to despise.

Having never known desire, Roux is ill prepared for the stunning beauty who challenges him at every turn. For the survival of his army, duty comes first. Always. But what happens when the flames of Blythe’s hatred burn out and she craves him, too…but only one of them can live?

Thoughts on The Phantom: We're back with the Astra Planeta warriors and the harpy women who challenge them. And by challenge, I mean the collective harpy ladies taunt, tease, and otherwise do their best to make the warriors regret invading Harpina. Until, you know, the two groups are working together to thwart an enemy and all that.

So. Roux and Blythe. These two didn't get off on the best foot seeing as how Roux beheaded Blythe's consort in the heat of battle. Things get even more complicated when Blythe possesses Roux (to save herself and her kiddo) and gets to spend some time in his head. THEN things get even MORE complicated when Blythe's not-so-great daddio tosses her into a realm as bait for Roux.

Yeah, family dynamics are a mess for these folks. Between Blythe's father's actions and Roux's father's version of childrearing both of them have a lot to work through. But they do it. They snark and sass and go all stone cold sometimes, but these two get where they need to be.

A dangerous realm, a whole bunch of women who hadn't seen a man in a looooonnnnng time, a little case or two of betrayal, some fighting, some steamy kisses, a little teasing (okay, A LOT of teasing), and another wild challenge that needs to be won. Roux and Blythe. MAN, I like these two together.