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
Audio Review: Moon Called by Patricia Briggs
FINALLY!
I think Moon Called has been on my MUST READ TBR pile longer than any of the other books I own. I am finally reading the Mercy Thompson series via a hybrid mix of primarily audio with supplemental Kindle.
I really enjoyed the first book of the Mercy Thompson series. I felt that the author does a fabulous job developing her mythology and creating three dimensional characters through action rather than backstory and telling. The primary characters are each a bit flawed in one way or another, giving them realism set within the fantasy.
Mercy Thompson is a likable "walker" - a one-of-a-kind preternatural coyote "shifter." She works as a mechanic, scraping to get by. She's made friends with a few members of the local werewolf pack, including her neighbor, Adam - the pack alpha. She's also friends with a vampire - which is basically taboo - and a few other fae. When Adam is attacked in his home, and his human daughter kidnapped, Mercy gets caught in the middle trying to help her friends.
I love that although Mercy is a preternatural being, she is a lot like an average human. Other than her increased senses and speed (when in coyote form), she doesn't have any extraordinary powers such as fast healing or increased strength. She uses the skills she's learned and her intuition to get through life, and so far, she's doing alright.
The storyline was well developed and kept me guessing until near the end who was behind the kidnapping and why Adam was targeted. I found myself engrossed in the plot, but also the character introduction and interactions.
The narration by Lorelei King is excellent. I was blown away by her range of voices - each so unique. There are some voices she performs, especially male characters, that I could have sworn were actually voiced by another narrator. While I'll admit that at first Adam's voice bothered me, I did grow to like it by the conclusion of the book. The wide range of vocals creates a richer listening experience.
My rating for the book: A- Enjoyed a lot
My rating for the audio: A- Enjoyed a lot
Kindle copy - purchased with own funds
Audiobook - loan from the library
1
 - Patricia Briggs)