Book reviews written by Caroline C

Reviews

Sort by:

1 2 3 4 5 | Next » Last

Displaying 1-10 of 101 reviews

High Stakes

by Erin McCarthy
- Rated 3 stars
“I had to grudgingly admit (this is coming from someone who runs away from the romance shelves) I actually liked this book. Alexis is a great likable character; she's got wit, she's stubborn as an ox, she knows how to fight back (literally), and her sense of humor is hilarious. With a main character like that, it was thanks to her that got me so interested in this book I read at least more than half of it in one morning and then finished it the next day.

The plot was all right. It does follow the typical romance genre standard plot line but the characters are likable and engaging and they provided so much entertainment, I found myself chuckling a couple of times because of Alexis and Ethan and how they felt about each other at first, and their banter was extremely entertaining. Although the sub-plot of several of Ethan's enemies trying to oust him from running for President is interesting, I actually wished they focused more on that plot instead of having to spotlight the main couple all the time. It left me with a lot of questions and now that certain events now happened regarding some of his enemies, I really want to know what's going to happen next. What bugged me was, although they were some trying to kill Ethan, it seemed as if both Ethan and Alexis didn't really care, they were too busy being in love with each other - which caused me to roll my eyes in frustration. Yes, I do realize this is a romance novel, but the intrigue plot is so interesting, why give that up to showcase the couple? wouldn't the plot to kill Ethan be just as exciting?

I also liked the plot with Brittany and Corbin. I thought they made such a cute couple and I was actually wanting more of those two instead of Ethan and Alexis, sure they were fun to read, but as soon as the "mushy stuff" came in, I just wanted them to move on and wanted to learn more about Corbin and his "research". Although Brittany strikes me a terribly naive and a little on the ditzy side, you can't help but like her because it's like she doesn't have a bad thought for anybody and nothing seems to ruin her day. She's such an exact opposite of Alexis but it's nice to see, so at least you don't see the book through eyes of one side all the time.

There are love scenes for those that enjoy that sort of thing, I particularly don't care much for them, so those were skipped. They do become more frequent as Alexis and Ethan are closer together towards the end of the book. It does get old, and tiring and the plot just remains stagnant with those two. I do admit, they do make a nice couple. (Although upto the point where they got mushy I switched to preferring Brittany and Corbin). The other problem I do have is it was predictable in some parts. Oh well. I actually expected that in this story. It wasn't bad enough to ruin my enjoyment of the novel.

Overall, it was a nice light read despite some pitfalls. I was able to tolerate it and I enjoyed it because of such entertaining characters. The story and plot could have used some work though. Those that love romance with vampires in it, give this a try. It's on the light side so don't expect things to get too dark.”

Caroline C wrote this review 2 days ago. ( reply | permalink )
The Darcys & The Bingleys

by Marsha Altman
- Rated 4 stars
“There is only one regret I have for this book, and it's why did I not read this one sooner? it was hilarious! I heard myself chuckle here and there at almost every other chapter. Darcy and Bingley are central to this book as most of the humor surrounds them and their actions. Sometimes it's their playful banter, other times it's Darcy's wit and his ability to take it out on Charles. Other times...well let's just say when they drink it just gets even more funny. It was a nice side to see to these two men, I've always thought they can't always be so stuffy and formal can they? they have to loosen up sometimes during life! and this book shows the side of the two that you've always wondered about. It's definitely a fun read and a cheerful one.

Aside from the wit and humor, you also see inside of both their marriages and again, it's a different face to the characters you're used to reading in Pride and Prejudice. It's amazing to see both Jane and Elizabeth take charge in their marriages and manage to get their own way when it comes to decisions. I liked seeing Darcy having to give in to Elizabeth's demands although it may seem very uncharacteristic at first as whoever thought Elizabeth could just order Darcy around and have him coiled around her little finger? (I actually never pictured their marriage to be this way but it's not that bad to read). You don't hear much from Lydia or Wickham in this book. Also Mary and Kitty have their own appearances but small ones.

You also get to see a different side from Caroline Bingley (she's still catty, but she's actually got a heart) and that, I think got a little too strange and a little too different. The outcome of Caroline in the novel, is nice but I couldn't really get used to it. Perhaps because with previous Jane Austen spinoffs, Caroline Bingley was always catty, mean, and always had a snide comment here and there as a means of insulting someone "politely". It's just hard to picture her being nice and loving (yes..she was loving believe it or not). It's a different side to Caroline, yes. I suppose it's the author's way of showing that Caroline can be human too.

Aside from that, the other problem I had with this book was there were times where present day English would accidentally appear throughout the dialogue. It does take the realism out of the story just a little bit. The characters and their new different "face" might take a while to get some die hard Austen fans to get used to (perhaps they might cry out sacrilege) but the storyline is wonderful, the humor is great, and I'm really looking forward to more from Marsha Altman's works.

Overall a hilarious read with plenty of fun adventures. It makes you wonder what's going to happen next with the Darcys and the Bingleys. I recommend this book to those in love with Jane Austen spinoffs.”

Caroline C wrote this review 4 days ago. ( reply | permalink )
Pure Dead Magic (Pure Dead)

by Debi Gliori
- Rated 4 stars
“Chaotic is one word to really describe this book. Although it was fun to read what they all go through I think this book would have made a very interesting movie (should it ever go that way). Think of The Addams Family and their kookiness, mixed with a bit of style of Lemony Snicket and add in a bit of Mary Poppins and you get Pure Dead Magic. I enjoyed reading this book! it was a fun light read and there were particular parts of the book that actually got me laughing out loud. It is quirky and kooky and you could say even rather strange at first to read but once you get engaged into the storyline then the reading experience is quite fun.

The plot was certainly engaging, and by reading the first page it actually takes you into the book head first so be prepared. I liked it, yet on the other hand, I found it a little too engaging. It just seems like there's just way too much going on and you have a hard time figuring out what's happening, and it also feels like you need to take a real big deep breath right after each chapter. Sometimes it helps if there's a small part in the book where everything just take a breather, and the action takes a break while we as readers sort things out with the storyline. The characters are likable and fun, no need for development, or any heavy duty stuff here. Like mentioned before, it's a light read to take a break from the heavy duty ones.

Overall, a fast, light read, with a lot of room left at the end for several more books ahead. I'll be picking them up whenever I need the urge to laugh or when I need to take a break from the heavier deeper books. Sometimes it's good to read childrens novels just to take a break from the serious books and to enjoy the quirky kooky funny ones as well.
”

Caroline C wrote this review 7 days ago. ( reply | permalink )
Pride and Prescience (Or A Truth Universally Acknowledged) (Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries)

by Carrie Bebris
- Rated 4 stars
“This is one of the better cozies I have come across so far in my cozy mystery reading experience. It feels like you're reading one of those old English gothic novels. It has a good mixture of supernatural mystery to satisfy those in need of a creepy but not so creepy experience, and there's a good plot and regular mystery behind it, making you try to guess who is behind all of these strange coincidences. I liked it how they brought in most of the characters from Pride and Prejudice it was nice to see them once again, and to have Elizabeth and Darcy solving the mystery together can't get any better than that. They both have the wit, and the sharp mindedness that brings them even closer together. Of course they have their disagreements as well, which is nice to see, as their arguing takes you back to the days when they didn't get along at all in the beginning of Pride and Prejudice.

I'm happy to see not much drastic change has happened to most of the characters in the book. The scandal behind Mr Hurst seems believable and makes sense considering his vices. Naturally, it was nice to see Caroline hasn't changed, until later in the book but there's a reason for it as you will see if you pick up this novel. There are a few twists and turns in the plot to keep you guessing as to who might have been behind the entire plot, although I did figure it out eventually before it was said. That might have become a disappointment as I would have liked to have been surprised, but the action at the end (there's a fighting sequence!) made up for it and proved to be exciting to read. I thought it was a good book, I was so interested in it, it didn't take me that long to read, and the ending was satisfying despite it being a little obvious who was behind the plot. I thought the little addition of supernatural "forces" at work was a neat little addition. It was subtle and not too overpowering to make it seem ridiculous. It worked seamlessly with the plot and made it more exciting.

I will definitely be pursuing other books in this series, and I am hoping the second book after this will be just as good as the first one. Overall, a great read, perfect for those that love Darcy and Lizzy, but are in the mood for a cozy mystery as well. Give it a try! it was an exceptional read.”

Caroline C wrote this review 9 days ago. ( reply | permalink )
The Courtesan: A Novel

by Susan Carroll
- Rated 4 stars
“This book was good! Gabrielle is by far the most exciting sister to read about! I loved the intrigue in the court and how beneath everyone's plans there's always a hidden agenda of what they really want. This is a great mix of historical fiction mixed with paranormal and fantasy. The plot was interesting, the romance was there but I was able to tolerate it, and the ending was great and I'm really looking forward to the next book. There is also a helpful author's note at the end of the novel to explain what's fact and fiction - very helpful and a nice explanation done by Susan Carroll.

I really liked how each Cheney sister has her own unique personality and characteristics. Ariane the oldest, is very calm, a healer, and strong. Gabrielle is quite the opposite, she's reckless, ambitious, outspoken, and stubborn. Miri, the youngest, has an affinity with animals, but tries to see the good in everybody. Each of them has a love interest and although I liked Ariane and Renard, Gabrielle and Remy were much more passionate and "heated". There were more explicit scenes in this one - I suppose it makes sense as Gabrielle is a courtesan but I let that slide, her and Remy had a nice chemistry and they just seemed to be great for each other. (I actually think Martin and Miri are rather cute together, I suppose we'll see what happens next with her in the following book).

There is a good element of plot twisting and surprises, which keeps the plot interesting and keeps you turning the pages. I have to admit, some parts were a little eye rolling; especially when one is in danger and suddenly the rescue team arrives just on time. However I enjoyed this book too much to let that bother me.

My favorite part, would be when Remy surprises Gabrielle at the masquerade party. It had great descriptions and you can vividly picture Gabrielle's gown, and the party sounded like something I just wanted to jump into. It was a perfect scene to develop a lot of intrigue and mystery into the plot!

Overall I recommend this book to those that love a good historical fiction, mixed with magic and passionate romance, with a very passionate couple.”

Caroline C wrote this review 11 days ago. ( reply | permalink )
Night Shift

by Lilith Saintcrow
- Rated 4 stars
“Comparing this with Dante Valentine, they're both almost similar in regards to personality. Tough and able to raise literal hell to track down villains, yet soft and sensitive sides come out when no one's looking (well, almost). I can't really say who I like more as they're both such interesting characters with such horrible pasts and are able to climb out of it and become strong butt kicking characters. I like it how they're not suffering from nyphomania like some paranormal urban fantasy characters I've read about which makes me roll my eyes each time they're mentioned. I love Jill and Dante's wit, their sarcasm, sometimes their thoughts made me laugh out loud, and their reckless impulsive behavior when fighting -it's always exciting to read, and it just seems as if they're not scared to run into a fight with the odds stacked against them. It's also nice to read about a character in which not *every* other character wants to sleep with them (unlike some other urban fantasy novels I've read too)

I thought the plot was great, and the action sequences were awesome. There's a lot of action in this book, I found myself reading page after page because it caught my attention and I wanted to know what was going to happen next. Although this is a mystery in this book I couldn't really bring myself to guess who it was, or who was behind everything as all I was concerned with was who Jill was going to fight next. All the pieces fit in together anyway, and the only questions I'm left with is more about Jill's past. I'd like to know more of her and more stories of her and Mikhail.

The romance (well budding romance) between Jill and Saul is nice although I find it a little mismatched, it's amusing to see Jill trying to push him away even though it's not what she wants, and Saul can see right through it. I thought it was cute how Saul walks so close to Jill and invades her "personal space" much to her annoyance. In a way, I think they're right for each other, but in other ways I don't think so..they're just so different, perhaps because you don't know much about Saul and his character isn't really that developed in the book. Perhaps in future books....

The only criticism I could give is, although the action is nice, it just seems like one huge adrenalin rush and the writing just feels haphazard. Then again it could be just me that feels this way.

Overall an excellent book if you're looking for a strong character, a good exciting plot, and plenty of fighting scenes to get you turning page after page.
”

Caroline C wrote this review 2 weeks ago. ( reply | permalink )
Nibble & Kuhn

by David Schmahmann
- Rated 2 stars
“This book isn't my usual type of book I normally read. I gave it a chance anyway because I thought the case was interesting. The case being, the wrongful deaths of several children who contracted cancer as a result of a chemical plant nearby and dumping their waste materials into the water. I thought something like this would bring a lot of intrigue and a lot of plotting within a very cut throat law firm.

I was completely wrong. It wasn't much like that. It was a quiet drama, with a satirical view of a prominent law firm which seems to be going downhill for several years. I liked the satire, it was under the main character's narration and point of view (Derek Dover) and it was nice to read. You can hear the irony in his narration and how he takes a few jabs here and there about the firm. (With a firm called Nibble and Kuhn there's bound to be a lot of jokes with that name). The way the story was written was clear and crisp. Straight to the point most of the time and it seemed like a quick read. Although it wasn't what I expected it to be, it took me longer than usual to finish this novel because it didn't have the intrigue I wanted it to have or the seriousness. (Perhaps I watch too much Law and Order)

As I progressed through the book more, I found myself really disliking Maria and Derek. For two grown up laywers, they act and behave like silly children. Maria, because with her personality, she had the backbone and the guts to tell her parents she's in love with Derek, instead she sucks it in and continues being with her fiance - yet persists being with Derek. Derek could have just let her go with her fiance but that's just too hard now is it? I felt myself rolling my eyes as more than half of the book was about their relationship, how they're trying to conceal it from the firm (why? I don't know..is it taboo to date within the law firm?) I saw these two grown adults just act like pathetic kids and I found myself having to force myself to read through it and wishing there was more about the case than about stupid Maria and Derek's relationship.

To my disappointment, you don't read much about the case in great detail until way at the end, and even then it felt rushed and lacking. It seems Derek was just too obsessed with Maria to even care and just skipped the details and just talked about the case in about a two or three chapters and that's it. That frustrated me as I picked this book up to read about the case, not about their silly romance and the office politics (which was interesting to read, but it got old fast).

The book got boring fast, after a while, Derek's story about the office, and about Maria and less on the case made me want to put the book aside and read other things. I really had to force myself to read the last one hundred pages. Now mind you, if you're into satire, and a "light" read with no heavy trial or heavy drama this might be the book for you. Otherwise, it's really not for me and not my sort of thing. I was really more into the case and nothing but.

Overall, I was disappointed and wished it centered around the case and not about Maria and Derek. Pick this up if you want a light courtroom romance drama. Otherwise steer clear of it if you're into heavier stuff like I am.

”

Caroline C wrote this review 2 weeks ago. ( reply | permalink )
Pretty Little Liars

by Sara Shepard
- Rated 4 stars
“This book really kept me turning the pages. It was so interesting, especially when they started receiving the messages with information that only they had shared with Alison. It certainly did give off an air of paranoia and it was a bit on the creepy side. I also liked how one secret led to another, and to another to the point where everything is layered with secrecy. The girls do share one big one though called "The Jenna Thing" which is not really wholly explained, but from the small bits of information you get, it does seem like a real big ugly one.

Of all the girls in the book, I would say I like Hanna the most. At times I really do feel sorry for her as I don't think she really knows who she really is yet and I sympathize with her. I do feel sorry for Spencer as well, although she did ask for it and brought it on herself. However it's her family I really dislike since they do treat Spencer like dirt. The characters in the book aren't really that deep or well rounded, but then again this book is meant to be a light fast read and really all you want is to get to the bottom of the plot, not worry about character development.

The plot is well done and very fast, it kept you going and kept you turning the pages until the very end, and even then it leaves off at a cliffhanger ending that makes you want to ask for more. The only thing I would have to dislike though, is the designer label name dropping that happens. It didn't occur much in the beginning but it started to become a more common thing through the end. That bugs me. It bugged me the most when for the second time in my life a bloody thong was labelled (and it's the same brand name too!) I wonder if both authors know each other and share tips on which kind of designer labels to add to their novels? hmm. I'm really hoping it's not going to be an issue in the second book because as in the Blood Blood series, I dropped reading them because of the excessive designer label description (that's one of the reasons why I dropped the series). I'm praying it won't happen for this series. I really do have high hopes for this one, as it grabbed my attention, I loved it for the mystery and the creepiness and I really want to know about The Jenna Thing.

Overall, designer labelling aside, it was a great page turner and I recommend this book for those that want an interesting YA read that can be finished in a day.
”

Caroline C wrote this review 2 weeks ago. ( reply | permalink )
The Virgin Queen's Daughter

by Ella March Chase
- Rated 4 stars
“I thought it was an interesting take on the life of Queen Elizabeth and the "what if" scenario. It never occured to me that such a thing could have possibly have happened. Who knows? this book explores it well and what I loved the most about it was the realistic account of court life during that specific time period. There was no romanticizing court life, it's more cutthroat, like being in a lion's den and no one is really safe from anybody. One little rumor and everything could fall like a pack of dominos lined up one after the other. It was certainly a very intriguing and interesting book I couldn't find myself to put it down. It was well written, wonderful descriptions and to the point, court life was realistic and there is LOTS of intrigue. There is so much plotting going on you start feeling like Nell, and you feel you can't trust anybody with any of your secrets in the court. It was an absolute fun and interesting read.

I liked Nell from beginning to end. She was so strong and although a bit headstrong and naive at times, she's mature enough to learn from her mistakes and continue to stay strong. Her traits were admirable and inspiring. I liked her relationship to Gabriel as well. They did suit each other and although it was obvious he was trying to help her, you couldn't help but mistrust him at the same time. He may seem very immature at first, and you share a dislike in him as Nell did at first, but as their relationship develops, you eventually accept him, and like him too. I also loved Nell's friendship with Mary Grey although an odd pair at first, and probably friends because they were "outcasts", Mary was probably one of the very few decent ladies in court (you'll find the maids of honor are rather catty and hard to deal with).

Queen Elizabeth wasn't the nicest Queen either in this book, and I liked how the book portrayed her. Sometimes it does get tiring of reading on how great she was, I'm sure she has her evil bad days as well. In this book you'll find a much more mean, catty, jealous side to Elizabeth and not the wonderful regal Queen we're so used to reading about.

The only criticism I can give to this book is, a little more historical information should have been given in the Author's note. It might help to have a bit more of an introduction for those that aren't too well versed with the history behind the Tudors.

Overall, a wonderful exciting intriguing book about life in Queen Elizabeth's court, I definitely recommend this book to fans of Tudor England.
”

Caroline C wrote this review 2 weeks ago. ( reply | permalink )
The Tale of Hill Top Farm

by Susan Wittig Albert
- Rated 4 stars
“This was a cute tale! I loved how they switched from the townsfolk and then to the animals. I really enjoyed how the animals got themselves "involved" in solving some of mysteries in the book. Mind you, the death of Mrs Tolliver was just one of the mysteries in this tale, there's also a few other little mysteries within the big one that need to be solved and although not necessary it does add more substance to the book. The description and feel of rural village life is well done and beautifully written. I absolutely loved it and it really did feel as if you were there in the town with these people. Naturally, what isn't a town without the endless drivel of gossip? you have your stereotypical characters: a gossip, a priest, the "liberated" woman who poses as a danger to society (OMG she rides a bike everybody! and wears pants!!), the pair of spinster sisters that live together, the list is endless.

The characters are very likable each in their own little way. I don't think I have a particular favorite yet. Although I really do love the part where Beatrix defends someone, and comes out of her shell to say what's on her mind. It shows Beatrix developing on her own without her parents following her every step with disapproval. I admire her independence and her steps to get away from her parents, and her new skill on how to say "no". The animals are likeable as well I love Mrs Tiggy, she's cute and lovable (especially when she curls up in a ball to sleep, with her little handkerchief covering her face) they each have their own personalities and again, I'd have to say, I don't have a favorite, I like all of them.

The downside of this book; there's no thrills or chills. When you get to the bottom of the mysterie(s) they're not filled with that pack and punch as you find in regular ones. Although my favorite was the one in which the animals had solved one of the mysteries featured in this book. Since this is my first cozy one, I'm not sure if that's the standard with these mysteries, is the finale always low key? so I wish there was a little more excitement in the end. It was all right though. I loved the description of village life enough that it kept me interested until the end. I admit there was a little bit of intrigue and mystery throughout the story but it wasn't much and not what I quite expected. Again, I'll let that pass considering it was my first cozy mystery.

Overall, a cute little tale of village life, their dramas and how the inhabitants of a little town deal with scandal, newcomers, and their mysteries. I definitely recommend this to fans of Beatrix Potter, and her tales. Definitely worth your time, especially to those cozy mystery fans out there.
”

Caroline C wrote this review 3 weeks ago. ( reply | permalink )