That's What I'm Talking About
I generally review romance, paranormal and urban fantasy. I tend to pick review books that I want to read, so generally my reviews will be positive. I always give my honest opinion: good, bad, and indifferent.
Note: on my blog I use a letter grading system. I've listed the ratings below. For sites with stars, I have listed the equivalent rating. If I didn't finish the book, I will not rate it with stars.
A+ Personal Favorite (5 stars)
A Loved It (4.5 or 5 stars)
A- Enjoyed A Lot (4 or 4.5 stars)
B+ Liked It A Lot (4 stars)
B Liked It -- Recommend (4 stars)
B- Liked It -- But I had a few small issues (3 or 3.5 stars)
C+ Liked It -- But I had issues (3 or 3.5 stars)
C Finished It -- Liked some, didn't like some (3 stars)
C- Finished It -- Liked a little, didn't like a lot (2 or 2.5 stars)
D Not A Big Fan (2 stars)
E Don’t Waste Your Time (1 star)
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TW: Reading this book was like watching a Train Wreck
DNF: Did Not Finish
updated July 9, 2015
Currently reading
Review: Sweep in Peace by Ilona Andrews
Sweep in Peace is the second story in Ilona Andrews’ wonderfully original Innkeeper Chronicles. This series is a unique blend of outer space science fiction and paranormal, earthbound urban fantasy. Main character, Dina, is an Innkeeper, a magical human that runs an even more magical and amazing inn for space travelers. Her inn is still fairly new and needs otherworldly guests to help it grow and thrive. Galactic Arbitrator George knows of Dina’s hidden desperation and uses it to force her into hosting a most assuredly deadly peace negotiation.
Dina is an unconventional character with a heart of gold. She has a very strong moral compass, which leads her to do what is best for others before considering how it will impact herself. As an Innkeeper, she wields a lot of power, but she never misuses it nor does it make her arrogant. In fact, she really should stand up for herself more, and I was so happy to see her grow over the course of the book, learning to deal with those who would manipulate her to seek a means to an end.
Dina is surrounded by one of the most interesting and enjoyable ensemble of characters I have read. From villain to love interest, friend to foe, no character is wholly good or bad. Each has its own story that is remarkable in and of itself. Even the Gertrude Hunt Inn has a life of its own, and the Innkeeper-Inn relationship is phenomenal.
Sweep in Peace is an engrossing story, with a lot going on. I strongly recommend reading the first story, Clean Sweep, which explains a lot of the world and introduces the main characters, several of which who return this time around. I loved watching Dina work out how she would keep her warring guest safe; the thought and effort she puts into every detail is compelling. Similarly, I enjoy seeing how she pieces together several side mysteries with logic and skill.
The Innkeeper Chronicles truly is one-of-a-kind. Sweep in Peace pulls together great character development and solid storytelling, set in an uniquely creative world. I really enjoyed reading this one and look forward to what comes next. The story itself was rich and complex. full of twists and turns. It was a lot to keep track of, but it all came together in the end. I strongly urge you to pick up this amazing series.
My Rating: A
Review copy provided by author
