Genre – Page 2 – The Spine View

Captive Wilderness by J. E. McDonald

I should have had this book read, and the review written, several months ago. I am trying not to beat myself up because life does sometimes get in the way. The simple fact is the book is so good, I wished I had read it sooner. I ended up reading it in just two sittings. It is everything I love in a paranormal romance and has two great characters that are meant for each other even if they don’t know it yet.

Brooke and her sister are both Bobcat shifter. They have been kidnapped by unknown people, a collar placed on them that they can’t remove, and they can no longer shift into their animal form. When they both regain consciousness, they are on a cargo plane headed to an unknown destination.

While Brooke manages to get free and parashoots to safely, she is forced to leave her sister behind. Landing in a remote wilderness, Brooke stumbles across a primitive cabin that is inhabited by Kane, a mute bear shifter. Brooke wants nothing more than to leave and find out where her sister was taken and rescue her. However, without the ability to shift, she will never be able to survive in the wild in her human form. The only way out is the next supply plane, which will not arrive for another two weeks.

It will be a long two weeks before she can start looking for her sister. Unfortunately, her abductors are not about to lose their prize. Will the growing connection between her and Kane end up being a good thing or a determent to them both?

I enjoyed the plot, nothing overly new, but there were a few new ways of looking at shifters that I thought brought some new life to the plot. I especially liked the setting and the descriptive prose that I felt was better than most books in this genre. In addition, the character development was really good. I especially liked that we got a fair amount of backstory on both Kane and Brooke. I really connected with the characters and wanted everything to work in their favor.

I know this type of book is fluff; but it is great fluff. Highly entertaining! If you love paranormal romance with a good side of steaminess, this is the book to read.

I received a free copy, via Library Thing’s early reviewer program, in exchange for my honest review.

The Transfer Problem by Adam Saint

This book was a pleasant surprise. I have read numerous Sci-Fi books that use the same troupe and this one was surprising original. A rich and compelling story that had me hooked from the beginning.

Ethan is highly intelligent and he works for a bank looking for trends in the financial markets that can be exploited for profit. He has a chance encounter with Anna, a research scientist, that shares his interests, is brilliant, and not surprising he falls in love.

Anna is researching methods that will enable a mind to be uploaded to a computer. She has developed a way to transfer a brain; however, the mind is destroyed in the process. Hence, the transfer problem. She wants to do some testing and needs a powerful computer. She enlists Ethan to help her access the bank’s massive computing power. The results are spectacular. Too good actually.

The world’s financial systems are in chaos as a result of the experiment. Ethan is on the run from the government and he soon discovers that his brother, Robert, is behind all this. He must find Robert and unravel the mystery of Anna if everything is going to be returned to normal.

I thought the plot was inventive and the pacing was good. In addition, there were so many little things that happened and details given that enriched this story. I enjoyed the complexity and did not find it was, in any way, off-putting. It was obvious that the author had a deep understanding of the technology involved and he was able to make me understand without being so technical that I got lost.

The best thing about this book are the characters, especially Ethan. The character development was slow and methodical. There was a lot going on and the author slowly peeled away the layers to reveal a character that I become deeply invested in.

Thoroughly enjoyable and I loved how the story unfolded so organically. It is not only fast paced but well crafted. If you are a fan of thrillers, be sure you read this one.

I received a free electronic copy in exchange for my honest review.

Upgrade by Blake Crouch

I can describe this book in one word, fantastic! Crouch has hit it out of the ballpark again with his latest book, Upgrade. He never fails to surprise with his imaginative and realistic plots. To me, this book is what makes me want to read Science Fiction.

Unbeknownst to the main character, Logan Ramsey, he has received an upgrade. In short, his genome has been re-sequenced. Not only have errors been erased in his genes, they have been improved. His mind is sharper. He finds he can recall things from his childhood like they happened yesterday. His comprehension is now off the charts. What he struggled to understand before now seems so simple. But that is not all, his physical attributes are vastly improved. He is faster, stronger and heals quicker. However, is this necessarily a good thing for the entire population?

In order to avoid any spoilers, I am not going to say anything further. I will tell you that the pacing of this book was more like a thriller and I was on the edge of my seat for most of the time. It is a compelling story, filled with thought provoking ideas and a perfect blend of science and fiction.

The character of Logan was so well thought-out and perfectly executed. Crouch does know how to put you inside the head of a character so that you understand their problems and feel their emotions as if they were your own. It left me wondering what choices I would have made if I had been in Logan’s shoes. I love books in which I connect with the MC and I question myself in the process.

Crouch explored a lot of interesting ideas in this book. I especially liked that he asked the reader, is intelligence better than compassion? Also, can we lose our humanity if we become too smart? Because of these issues, and others, he raises, this is the perfect book for a Sci-Fi book club. There are a lot of interesting avenues to explore within the pages and you could talk for hours about some of them.

However, this is a great book for people who are not necessarily Sci-Fi fans because the science in this is not in your face. This is one of the most thought-provoking books I have read this year. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a fast-paced book that also speaks to your heart.

I received a free copy, via Net Galley, in exchange for my honest review.

The Drop by John Anthony Miller

Set in Havana, Cuba just prior to Castro, this suspense/thriller The Drop, by John Anthony Miller, is a wild ride full of surprises. Written with great prose and meticulous attention to detail in both setting and characters, makes it a real winner.

A very interesting and diverse set of characters in The Drop. First there is, Jimmy Foster who is the uber wealthy Wall Street guy. He is married to, Darlene, who is gorgeous and a gold digger. He loves Havana, and he and Darlene come often to enjoy the sun, pool, music and sometimes the casinos in the city. They have everything going for them and should be the perfect couple. Yet some people are never satisfied, and the grass is always seems greener on the other side. So when Jimmy is kidnapped, she is not overly distraught.

There is another beautiful woman involved in this story, Ariana. She and her family where once wealthy until it was all taken away by Batista. Now she is out for revenge. However, revenge costs money, lots of money. Steal from the mob… no problem. Kidnaping, well maybe not so good.
Especially, when a wife has everything to gain from a missing husband and everything to lose if he is found.

Lastly there is the private detective, Harry, that has a mysterious air about him. Is he in Havana on behalf of a jealous husband or is there something else going on? He is definitely in the all the right places at the right times and seems better prepared than the police to find Jimmy.

So many little twists and subtle hints of what is to come as the story progresses. However, as I have mentioned in the past, I hate spoilers. Instead, I am leaving with this vague overview and hope that I have given you enough to peak your interest.

I loved the setting of this book; because, I am starting to feel worn out on historical books set either during WWI or WWII and this book felt like a breath of fresh air. Also, I am highly appreciative that the author took great care in the scene descriptions. It enhanced the story and allowed me to place myself in the characters’ shoes.

The characters were well done and there was a lot of subtly in their actions. I didn’t always understand their actions and that made the book more interesting. However, it all comes together neatly in the end and I got why the characters did what they did.

I can’t fail to mention just how good the plot was. There was a twist at the end that I never saw coming. Even after several days to noodle on the ending, I am still left shaking my head. It was alluded to; however, I never put two and two together, which is unusual for me. Well done!

This book had everything going for it and Miller has become one of my favorite authors. If you are looking for a historical fiction story in an unusual setting and a twisty plot, then this the book for you. I highly recommend you read it.

I received a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Christmas Collusion by K. L. McLoughlin

After an overload of Christmas themed books during the holidays, I put this book off way too long. When I finally did pick it up, I wished I had read it sooner because it has great characters and a plot I enjoyed.

There are two stories here that merge and become entwined. First, we have Greg and Patty who meet in a coffee shop by accident… literally. The accident occurring when Patty bumps into Greg and spills her coffee on him. They get to talking and Greg asks her if she would go on a fake date because he needs to appease his meddling daughter Mandy.

Second, we have Justin and Mandy (the meddling daughter). Justin is the new person at the office and Mandy feels a strong attraction to him. It turns out that Justin is none other than Patty’s nephew. What are the chances! But there is more going here and as the relationships get more involved and these four people’s lives become more entwined there is more than just hurt feelings at steak. There are some miscommunications and other twists that happen that make this story interesting (sorry no spoilers). And as you can imagine, with the way these four get tangled up together, some humorous moments.

As I stated at the beginning, I think the characters are well done. I liked how the author presented them as sincere but fallible. We all are guilty of jumping to conclusions and the author used this to great advantage in the story, especially with Mandy. I kind of felt sorry for her. I couldn’t help but laugh at her. Not a mean laugh, but one that says I get it, I have been in your shoes before.

The plot was good. Believable, which always is a plus for me with fiction. Then there is just the right amount of suspense to keep you interested in the outcome. As the reader, and therefore being in the know, yet having to wait see how everything worked out when all the cards where on the table was half the fun of this book.

This is actually book one of a new series and I am looking forward to reading more from this author. I can easily recommend this to Romance readers and Contemporary Fiction readers. There is more than just a Christmas story here and this book would make the perfect beach read.

I received a free copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Impossible Us by Sarah Lotz

If you are tired of the same old drab Rom-Com stories, be sure to check out The Impossible Us by Sarah Lotz. It is quirky, fun and a breath of fresh air in a tried-and-true genre.

Neither Nick nor Bee considers themselves good at relationships. Bee was involved in a disastrous relationship years ago and now prefers only one-night stands. However, recently that also has not been the best experience and she is thinking that it is time to swear off men altogether. Then there is Nick, the self-proclaimed failed writer who appears stuck in a marriage that is unfulfilling and disappointing for both himself and his wife.

Then it all changes when a misdirected email sent by Nick ends up in Bee’s Inbox. They start a lively back and forth banter that they both look forward to because they know they will never have to meet. However, they did not plan for the ease in which they can “talk”. It is like they have known each other all their lives and they just get each other. Maybe they are the perfect match.

Putting their doubts aside, they decide to meet at the train station. Call it a twist of fate but they never meet up because it is “impossible”. IKR!?! How can it be impossible??? I hate spoilers and I refuse to do them. Therefore, you will need to read the book to find out the impossible. BTW, don’t read the book blurb because that has the spoiler I am trying to avoid.

Obviously, I loved the originality of the story. Just when I thought there could be nothing all that new and fresh in this genre, someone comes along and just blows it out of the water. For this reason alone, you should read this book!

Another reason to read this book is the great characters. They were both so very imperfect, yet that endeared them to me. Yeap, I totally fell in love with them and wanted everything to work out. So much so, that I kept imagining ways that their relationship would work.

Throw in a fast-moving plot and a few twists and you have the reasons for my five-star rating. This story took me be surprise, not only in the inventiveness, but in the quality of plot and character development. I need to add this author to my must-read list.

I loved this book and am looking forward to reading more by this author. Great pick for Rom-Com and Contemporary Fiction readers. Be sure to check out this little gem!

I received a free copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review. For more of my reviews, and author interviews, see my book blog at www.TheSpineView.com.

Immortal Rising by Lynsay Sands

Being book #35 in the Argeneau series, by Lindsay Sands, you can imagine how popular the author’s books are. This is Stephanie and Thorne’s story. Both of these characters have appeared in earlier books, and it is nice to finally get them together as the stars of their own story.

Stephanie was introduced as a teenager early on in the series. Now she is an adult and living the life of a recluse because she has the unique ability to hear other people’s thoughts. While that is good when hunting rogues, the crush of so many thoughts can be unbearable at times. Thus, her necessary rural and reclusive life that helps keep the noise to a minimum.

Thorne, also introduced in earlier books, is the result of genetic experiments conducted by his father Dr. Dressler. He is a mix of human and various animal DNA. As a result, he has wings and is not entirely mortal. Currently he is in Canada and staying at the compound that also contains Stephanie’s home while he awaits the possible removal of his wings.

When Thorne and Stephanie meet there is an instant attraction. When by chance their skin grazes the others, they both feel the electricity between them. Stephanie knows this can only be one thing, Thorne is her life mate. But will Thorne want her when he finds out her past and what will happen when Dressler comes looking for them both.

This book just further proves that this series is my go-to for vampire goodness. Enjoyed every moment of this story. I like how diverse Sands characters are and her imagination seems to know no bounds. She manages to keep delivering great story after great story and somehow keeps them fresh and exciting even after all this time.

Another thing I like about these books is that there is always some kind of tension and/or drama to keep the reader interested and invested in the outcome. The character development is good, and I was especially drawn to these two characters. I think it is because both of these characters have been through so much already and yet they still retain a positive outlook on life. Therefore, I really wanted them to have their happy ending.

I have read most of the books in this series and this one is in the top 5 for me. If you haven’t read any of these books, I strongly urge you to read this one or any of the others in the series for that matter. Sands always gives you enough background to read each book as a stand-alone.

I received a free copy, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.

One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle

I wished I had enjoyed this book. Other readers did enjoy this book very much; therefore, I am going to chalk this one up to just not my tastes. While I explain my reasoning for my rating, keep an open mind because the things that bothered me may not be a big deal to you.

Katy’s mother, Carol, has just died and she is left without her rock, her best friend and supporter. To say Katy has lost everything thing is an understatement. She depended on her mother for everything despite being a grown, married woman herself.

Carol’s death happened just two weeks before their planned trip to Positano, Italy to celebrate Carol’s 60^th birthday. At a loss on how to live without her mother, Katy decides to take the trip alone. Once there she discovers a much younger version of her mother. She sets out to discover more about this version of her mother she never knew existed.

Before I delve into the parts I didn’t like, I would like to talk about the things I did like. First, I loved the descriptions of the Italian coast, the food and life. It made me want to drop everything, pack a bag and go see for myself all the delights of this lovely seaside town.

I enjoyed the plot (for the most part) and thought the pacing was good. However, I was not a fan of how the time travel was handled. It read as an afterthought or that it just thrown in to make the plot work. If you time traveled, wouldn’t you notice things like old cars everywhere that looked new, no cell phones, that people dressed funny. I guess there was a time bubble just around Katy?? Yeah, I know it is fiction, but it has to be at least plausible in some parallel universe.

Then we had the relationship between Katy and Carol. Katy was so clingy it was to the point of being unhealthily. It felt like Katy, couldn’t wipe her own behind without asking her mother for permission. The relationship described was well beyond clingy going into the scary and creepy territory. I’m still shuddering to think about it.

In short, I was disappointed in what could have been a great story. Though I feel uncomfortable recommending this book, I know a lot of people will enjoy it. Therefore, I suggest you decide for yourself.

I received a free copy, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.

All I Want For Christmas Is the Girl Who Can’t Love

This book, though mostly not set during the holidays, still has the special magic that only the holiday season can bring. It is an imaginative coming-of-age story and will definitely warm your heart.

Savannah meets Jordan at the start of the semester when he offers to help her carry her mattress to her dorm room. In the days following move in, they keep running into each other and before long a friendship develops, but Jordan wants more. However, Savannah is convinced that true love does not exist. She thinks love is just a primitive response to mating. This is only reinforced by her mother and grandmother’s experiences.

Jordan is not without wanting to put off love because his career goals come first. However, as the semester progresses, Jordan and Savannah are drawn to each other. They just seem to click and Jordan becomes determined to prove to Savannah that true love does exist. When they find a collection of letters from the revolutionary war between a solider and the woman he loved, Jorden uses this as the opportunity to prove the existence of true love. The question is. will this be enough to prove to Savannah that true love exists?

The characters in this story were fabulous. They are genuine and the dialog was what I would expect from young adults. I liked how the author used Savannah’s challenges with empathy. Because Savannah is challenged, the author was able to highlight how strong and intelligent she is, with a fierceness about her that many her age don’t have.

I also loved that the tension slowly built in the story and there could not have been a better setting for this book. The historical element of the letters added a nice layer to the story and helped moved the plot along. I wanted to find out what happened to everyone and it had me rushing to finish.

This book was charming, and had a strong feel-good vibe. I highly recommend it to lovers of YA and romance. It is not only a great holiday read, but would make a great beach read because a lot of the book takes place outside of the holidays.

I received a free copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.

Christmas With Hamish by Sophie Penhaligon

I am always a sucker for books that have animals in them. I am so glad I happened to run across this one on NetGalley. It satisfied my need to read a happy holiday story where animals played an important role. This is just what I wanted!

Verity has been dreading the trip to Vancouver for her sister’s wedding. She has always been an outsider and her sister and mother treat her more like a servant than family. She consoles herself knowing she will have a ski vacation to enjoy with her friends after the wedding. However, when her sister’s dog sitter cancels at the last minute, she gets roped into dog sitting.

Dog sitting is totally outside Verity’s comfort zone. Fortunately, the neighbor down the hall, Nikau and his dog Chunk, come to the rescue. Before long Verity is an unofficial dog Aunt. In addition, to learning all things dog, she has an instant connection to Nikau and a budding romance begins.

This is a typical feel good romance with a happy ending. I liked the characters a lot. I was especially happy with Nikau. He was loving and protective but not smothering. There needs to be more people like him in real life!

The story was good and the plot moved nicely. There was a bit of tension in the story that keep me interested. Overall, very well done.

I recommend this books for fans of romance. I also think readers who love a Christmas story will enjoy this too. Yet, it is not only a great holiday story, it is a story feel good story for any time of year.

I received a free copy, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.