The Brush Whistler's Song by Augusta Li

The Brush Whistler's Song by Augusta Li
Stars: 4.5/5

Length: 22,000 words (55 pages)
Blurb
Young Arjin is caught in the web of an ancient truce. Barely into his adulthood, he is given as tribute to the mysterious Najadira, part of a race of nigh-immortal horned warriors known as the Ansari. But Arjin is no innocent. Since his childhood, he has been trained for this day, groomed by the temple priests for a singular purpose: not to please the Ansari, but to murder him and free his people from the terms of their agreement.

Najadira, though, is old and jaded, and unsurprised by Arjin's true nature. Still, he chooses to keep Arjin near to him, finding that the young man's zeal quickens his old blood like few before him ever did. He allows Arjin access into his world, a world of beauty and wonder that had before now been denied. And as Arjin learns more about Najadira, he begins to question his teachings about the Ansari. Ultimately, he must choose between taking a life in the service of his beliefs or abandoning his duty and thereby condemning his soul to the decadence and sin surrounding him.

Overall
Wow. That's about all I can say. In a relatively short span Li creates a world, fills it with color, and brings the two main characters to life. My only complaint is that I want more!

Review
I think what immediately caught my eye with this story is the gorgeous descriptions Li uses in detailing Arjin's new home. Everything is bright and colorful and very nearly jumps off the page. After reading an excerpt, I very much wanted to delve into the decadent writing. And it's absolutely worth it. Not only is the writing a wonderful practice of the art, but the story and characters hold up in comparison.

Arjin is a man on a mission and despite Najadira knowing what that mission is, the two bond. Najadira is fighting against Arjin's entire past, while Arjin struggles between what he knows and what he feels. In some ways this reminds me of Every Good Thing by M. Jules Aedin, although much shorter. Arjin's inner conflict is what propels the story and gives plot to these two living together, and the reader will delight in seeing Arjin be swayed by Najadira and then repulsed.

This tale explores self-discovery and coming of age, in addition to several religious and cultural concepts, and in doing so can push some sensitive subjects, although I felt everything was handled respectfully. There were some convenient plot elements in this regard, but they weren't off-putting.

If I could say one negative (aside from wanting to see more of these two, although their story is quite complete), it's that I felt a giant question was left hanging in the air in regards to Najadira's immortality and Arjin's mortality. The fact that this was never addressed soured (a little) the wonderful conclusion this story draws.

In general I found this to be a delightful story that is quickly devoured and leaves a lingering splash of color across the palate.

In All Your Ways by Cari Z

In All Your Ways by Cari Z
Stars: 4/5

Length: 26 pages (10,000 words)
Blurb
During Heaven's rebellion, the angel Renat fell to Hell for loving the angel Emiel more than God. His punishment was harsh: he became a demon. Millennia later, Renat has long given up hope on ever reuniting with his love, finding what little pleasure can be found in the lands of the damned. He's shocked when an angel is found at the borders of Hell, and he quickly realizes that Emiel has finally followed him into Hell. Renat knows he will have to fight to keep Emiel from being torn from him, and the only one who can save them is Satan himself.

Overall
A story about angels--especially fallen--are right up my alley, so within the first few lines, I felt pretty secure that this story was going to get a good rating from me. That being said, a poorly written or formulated story with fallen angels that screws up still won't satisfy! However, this story is equal parts heartbreaking and sweet, with Renat's struggle as he loves Emiel and is rejected--by him and by God--and is cast down into Hell.

While the idea of some of the fallen angels being cast out because of loving another more than God is not new, it also fits within the 'doctrine' that has become popular regarding the angels and the fall. There are a lot of religious implications in this story that fit with Christian themes (while others are arguably outside that realm), with the more modern forgiving God and the angrier cast-out-the-angels God. There is also a wonderful theme of "fulfilling God's role," which is somewhat horrifying, but also kind of nice. The way all these different threads come together make a wonderful tapestry, creating a short, poignant story within a colorful world that leaves room for further exploration while also satisfying the reader's wants.

All the characterizations were well done, from angry Lucifer to the forgiving glimpse of Morning Star that we see; the sex was erotic but not too sexualized (hey, these are angels we're talking about!); and the story has a satisfying closing. An all around well-done piece.

The Fifth Son by Blaine D. Arden

The Fifth Son by Blaine D. Arden

Stars: 3.5/5

Length: 24,000 words

Blurb

Llyskel is the fifth son of a King, but, unlike his brothers, he doesn't have a career in politics or the military to look forward to. In a world where everyone possesses magic to some degree or other, Llyskel is powerless, unable to perform even the smallest magic-based tasks. All his life, he's been under constant guard for his own protection from the magical world around him, much to his annoyance. The only time Llyskel feels free is when he paints, where the only spells he needs are the ones he weaves with brush and paint, capturing moments of beauty and giving them immortality on canvas.

Llyskel harbors a secret wish, though, a dark desire that haunts his nights. Only Ariv, a captain in the King's army, seems to sense the truth of Llyskel's needs. The pull he feels to Llyskel is unavoidable, and the passion between them undeniable.

But Ariv isn't the only one interested in Llyskel. The Queen of a neighboring country expresses her interest in the boy's talents, but her true intent goes far beyond a love of art. And what she asks may be too high a price for any of them.

Overall

For some reason I had a difficult time sitting down to review this story. I enjoyed the writing, the characters, the world, and the relationship, but I still felt as if something were missing--or perhaps there was too much of something else. Still, the main characters' dynamic is appealing, despite having some difficulties coming to an understanding Llyskel's shooter kink (even being able to make the connection between it and gun kink). A good fantasy setting with interesting (although I'd like more development) characters, I'd recommend this easy read for a nice day on the beach.

Strengths

One of this story's strengths was the subtle world building. In many regards it follows a standard fantasy world construction, but there are enough nuances to add a special flare, and it was those touches that made it particularly strong to me. The description of a child's coming to power, the role of kings and queens, the weapon that focuses a user's magic, the use of magic in every day life and how it disrupts Llyskel's world and inhibits most things he does. In a short span the multitude of these minor elements all added up to paint world picture.

In addition to this, the descriptions used throughout the writing brought the story to life. The narrator is an artist and rightly gives beautiful (sexy) descriptions of the things he sees: flowers, men, fights, gardens, etc. It was gorgeous and sexy and one of my favorite things about this story!

As I mentioned before, I had some difficulties understanding Llyskel's thing for shooters, but I did enjoy how it propelled certain knowledge to come out and how Llyskel and Ariv deal with the obstacle. Their second bedroom scene is very nice. It helps that Llyskel gives vivid details about Ariv's appearances and the description of their night together is wonderfully sensual. I enjoyed my time with them ;)

Weaknesses

While I enjoyed the climactic action and resolution, the ordeal felt somewhat forced--or at least it didn't flow with the rest of the story. Logically it made sense and wasn't abrupt, but something about it felt off to me, as if the story itself were a fantasy romance with a plot tagged on. I was perfectly happy with Llyskel and Ariv exploring their relationship and the needs in that relationship, but I may be unique in that.

Received this book for review.

Crescendo (Song of the Fallen, #2) by Rachel Haimowitz

Crescendo (Song of the Fallen, #2) by Rachel Haimowitz
Stars: 4/5

Length: 107,000 words (245 pages)
Blurb
History made them enemies. Chance made them master and slave. Love overcame it all. But love isn’t always enough...

Bridging the hatred of centuries did not come easy for Freyrík Farr and Ayden Vaska. As prince of a war-torn human province, Freyrík could ill afford to fall for an enemy. And Ayden, an elven warrior with three-hundred years of bitterness in his heart, wanted no part of love—not elven, and especially not human. Yet they came together despite themselves and despite the will of their peoples, joining heart and mind to fight a race of Dark Beasts threatening the extinction of mankind.

But the Dark Beast threat pales beside the dangers of the human High Court, home of the Aegis Exalted and the harshest test yet of Ayden’s and Freyrík’s fledgling love.

While Ayden is stripped of his magic, Freyrík is forced to choose between his love for elf, Aegis, and brother, all the while seeking the one uncertain path that might save his doomed race. Time is fast running out for mankind, and only by making peace amongst themselves and with their ancient elven enemies can they end the Dark war—and undo the tragedy that’s plagued humans, elves, and Dark Beasts alike for the last three-hundred years.

Overall
Crescendo picks up where Counterpoint leaves off: Ayden and Freyrik are forced to travel to the main city to meet the king of kings and present Ayden to him (and have his magic bound). Neither is very happy about it, but they are at an impasse: Ayden won't go unless Freyrik joins him, and Freyrik refuses to betray his kings. These decisions will cost them more than they can expect.

The first half of this novel is filled with political intrigue and tough decisions. It's difficult for them to trust anyone, except each other, but even that bond is brittle in their new environment. To balance out the politics, the second half of the book has adventure with sword fights and magic (and walking, because adventures always involve a lot of walking).

Although the ending left me a off balance, I highly enjoyed this fantasy romance.

Strengths
I think I wanted to punch everyone in this story at least once, except Lord Lini and Vitr. OK, maybe not everyone, but much of the leading cast. Why is this a good thing? These characters got under my skin; they acted/reacted like people (and elves) do, and they struggled with their decisions--and the results. Sometimes it was painful and raw, but it was a little bit awesome in that as well.

The Aegis. I love him. I love him because every other chapter I wouldn't know if I could trust him, or if he was secretly cackling behind my back. I loved that I couldn't see him cackling behind the main characters' backs. He drove me nuts. It was great.

Once again the balance of action and politics saved this story from relying too heavily on either. For those who love politics, it will sate that, and for those who love action, there is a fair amount (although perhaps not as much as the first book, or at least differently structured).

There is still a fair amount of romance, although because Freyrik has successfully wooed Ayden, it's not as central to the plot or action. Most the romance here is focused on their relationship continuing despite the odds and the power balance between them.

Weaknesses
Considering the slow build of everything in this novel and the one before it, the ending feels especially abrupt. While I can see the reason for it (too many details would drag it out), I still felt shocked by the sudden arrival of the final chapter. It almost felt like Haimowitz wanted to end with the second to last chapter, but was advised on not, so tagged on another chapter. Mind you, I'm glad it doesn't end with the second to last chapter...but that will be for you to decide.

Received this book for review.

Counterpoint (Song of the Fallen, #1) by Rachel Haimowitz

Counterpoint (Song of the Fallen, #1) by Rachel Haimowitz
Stars: 5/5

Length: 120,700 words (414 pages)
Blurb
It is the twilight of mankind. Depleted by generations of war with a dark race, the human kingdoms and their ancient alliance stand on the brink of extinction. The outlands are soaked with the blood of the fallen. The midlands are rotting with decadence and despair.

Elfkind, estranged by past crimes, watches and waits for nature to run its course.

And then the two collide.

Ayden's life has long been guided by two emotions: love for his sister, and hatred of all things human. When he's captured in battle, he must for his sister's sake swallow his pride and endure slavery in the service of a human prince, Freyrik Farr.

Freyrik's always known elves to be beautiful and dangerous, but never has one affected him as deeply as Ayden. Can his life of service to his people leave room for this attraction? Dancing on a dagger's edge between duty and high treason, Freyrik discovers that some choices can change a life, and some an entire world.

Between prejudice, politics, pride, and survival, Ayden and Freyrik must carve a new path, no matter how daunting. For nothing less than the fate of both their peoples rests on the power of their perseverance—and their love.

Overall
The first of two books telling Ayden and Freyrik's story, I'd recommend readers diving in to the story be prepared to have Crescendo on hand after finishing Counterpoint. The novel is lengthy, a slow build from enemies to lovers, but the emotions on both end are eloquently executed as the pair learns to trust and care for one another while navigating the landmines their races' history has thrown in the way.

While this story is definitely a romance, it is just as equally an epic fantasy, where mankind is battling against supernatural monsters in order to survive and elves wield nature's magic. The fight for survival and victory is just as central to the story as the battle for their relationship. This is an amazing adventure of the heart and the mind that drives the reader to the cusp, clinging on by the tips of the fingers.

Strengths
Although I'd love to list every positive attribute of this novel, I'll refrain and only pick those points that jumped out at me. However, this book really encompasses the definition of epic fantasy romance and is epic-ly fantastic (see what I did there?).

The first thing I noticed when I started reading was the strength and natural flow of the writing, followed by the incredible world development. Although Haimowitz's world takes from some general mythos (elves have magical powers, humans are bitchy angry), she also makes this world her own, building up unique enemies and social mores. The world is painted beautifully--in the case of the elves--and darkly--in the case of the human world--bringing to life the characters that inhabit it.

Ayden and Freyrik are interesting, unique characters who clash wonderfully and meld together just as hotly. But they aren't the only characters who bring life to this story. Along with various bullies (the lead of which is the First Wife), Freyrik's right-hand man (Lord Lini) is a shining example of a good friend. I think because he has so little to gain by being so loyal, his loyalty is all the more precious. The various characters add a level of depth, and although the cast is expansive, the flow of actors is expertly handled to avoid confusion and clutter.

Finally, the plot. Oh the plot. A mix of master trying to win a slave's heart, two warriors clashing, a fight for survival of the human race, and a ribbon of political intrigue that taints it all. There is so much in this story to feast on that you will finish it sated--and hungry for more. Thankfully, the next book promises to be just as hearty. While this plot isn't fast faced, it's detailed and thorough, leaving the reader guessing while vibrating with anxiety to see what becomes of the heroes.

Weaknesses
Not a weakness, but something to be warned going in: This is part one of two parts. Just like Lord of the Rings, the book ends without complete resolution of important matters that are to be resolved in the second book.

Another word of warning, while this isn't a slow or sedate novel, it does take time to build in order for everything to fall into place. It is not a short little romance, but that is also what makes it so amazing. There is a fair amount of politics involved, and I imagine there will be more in the second novel, but it's balanced by the character development and danger--from external and internal factors.

Note: I linked to the Riptide Publishing version above, but I read the first printing from Guiltless Pleasure Publishing.

The Forester by Blaine D. Arden

The Forester by Blaine D. Arden
Stars: 3/5

Length: 18,600 words
Blurb
Kelnaht, a cloud elf, is a truth seeker caught between love and faith. Worse, a murder committed ten days before Solstice reveals an illicit affair between two tree elves he desires more than he can admit: Kelnaht's former lover Ianys, who once betrayed him, and the shunned forester named Taruif, who is not allowed to talk to anyone but The Guide, their spiritual pathfinder. When Taruif turns out to be the only witness for the crime, Kelnaht has to keep Ianys from sacrificing himself and losing his daughter, while at the same time realising he'd gladly sacrifice himself to end Taruif's loneliness.

Overall
With enjoyable characters, a twisty romance plot, and murder case to move it all along, "The Forester" is an enjoyable, although regrettably short, read. Arden does a commendable job of building the world in a short amount of time and has a strong writing style. However, the story could have been strengthened by further development of the characters and their relationships and my enjoyment was restricted by my struggle to believe the emotional interactions.

I enjoyed the nugget we received, but would have loved to see more development. I feel my review below is harsher than I mean it to sound, as I did enjoy the story and the writing, but the two driving forces have weaker elements that detract from it's score.

Strengths
Arden is a strong story teller capable of painting a very nice picture of the world, the characters, and the scenes. The Kelnaht's conflicts involving his heart, go a long way to developing his character, as do his interactions with the Guide, who I find to be the most intriguing character of the story. The writing is such that I would definitely check out other works by this author.

While the world creation isn't too deep, the reader is provided all the necessary facts while not being given too much information. The perfect balance of provided and implied lets the reader supply with imagination anything that isn't told. In addition, a highly appropriate cover adds multiple details to the mind's eye.

Weaknesses
The murder plot felt somewhat secondary to the relationship plot, although it motivated several events. The mystery lacked suspense and as a result I didn't really care who'd-dun-it. It worked as a tool to bring The Forester into dealings with the Truth Seeker, but aside from that, it fell a little flat as there didn't seem to be an energy driving the investigation. I also wish that we had been given more about why the Forester was exiled before the end, although I am glad we were told eventually.

While I liked the romance and the struggle there, the story didn't give much space for understanding why the characters were drawn to each other and were willing to make the sacrifices they did for one another. I felt like it could have been expanded into a novella easily to build all the background that was needed to really understand any of the emotional draws between any of the characters but the ones who had once been together. That said, if you're able to suspend needing to know a reason, the story plays out very well.

Received this book for review.

The Fall of the Dragon King by MomsDarkSecret

The Fall of the Dragon King by MomsDarkSecret
Length: 68,000

Overall
The world is ending as the gods make the earth quake with their anger, and Mora, a priest and last descendant of the world's previous savior, must work with Prince Hadrin, the last descendant of the Dragon Kings--the cause of the world's destruction--to fulfill the prophecy and bring peace to the world as they know it. But what Mora suggests--a union between the two men--is deemed unacceptable by the King, even as the two men are learning to be friends and care for one another.

This fantasy novel leans heavily in the romance genre, but isn't weak in its fantasy elements as the world comes to life both visually and culturally. The scenes are described just enough to let the reader fill in the spaces in a somewhat typical setting with just enough unique qualities to keep the reader's interest.

The sex scenes are okay, although some of the dialogue in them felt a little cliche, but aren't really the selling point of the story. The plot and the characters are the main interests as the two men try to find balance in their love of one another and their duties to the court and society at large. In addition there is the pettiness of nobles, the support of some family and friends, and finally a fantastical climactic moment that wraps the story up.

Recommended for people who like light fantasy novels that don't get too serious about their world building but still has some fun angles, plus male romance, royalty and priests. Not to mention fun side characters.

Scorpion by Aleksandr Voinov

Scorpion by Aleksandr Voinov
Stars: 5/5

Overall
With great characters, plot and a creative world, there is little to dislike about this book. While warriors, politics and hot sex might not be every one's cup of tea, this is definitely worth taking a risk on. The battles are short, the politics are intriguing (and not too heavy or convoluted), and the wide cast of characters is incredibly interesting. While not a light read, its dark elements are balanced by flashes of humor and a good love story.

Strengths
Characters. For me, characters make or break a story, and here they absolutely made a good story great. Kendras is a good characters, if not a bit stiff in his ideas, but Steel, Widow, the Flames (and the men of the Flames), along with the officers, and the Lady protector really wowed me. They are varied, not black and white. Nothing is simple--not their situations and not their relationships. I think Steel is the most heart-breaking because Kendras judges him so harshly and if an officer had gotten to him earlier, he may not have become the "soulless" man he is when Kendras meets him. Widow is terrifying and amazing and I love what he does in the story (although he can stay far away from me!). Also, the men of the Flames were a nice touch and I hope to see more of them in future stories.

World Building. Voinov takes us through a very creative world that's very dark for our narrator, but we still see glimpses of light that is a normal life. While constructing political parties and armies, he made the Flames and the Scorpions and the train of thought that goes with joining both those groups. It's a world I'd look forward to seeing more of and will let my mind play in secretly. His descriptions are dark and gritty with splashes of (important) color.

Plot. While the sex scenes start early and hot, the beginning of the plot is a slow build that ultimately climaxes in a truly satisfying way. Some of the events aren't easy to handle for both Kendras and for the reader, but surviving them makes the end all the more rewarding. Artistically, the plot was well constructed and interesting, keeping the reader's interest in what will happen next. Ultimately satisfying, in more ways than one.

Weaknesses
There was some slight lag time while the characters were waiting for something to happen that lost me a little. In retrospect it felt necessary and I'm glad it was there, but, for me at least, I struggled a little. Political intrigue/war novels aren't my normal diet though, so people familiar with them may not have any problems. I would still recommend this to people not interested in political intrigue/war novels. The battle scenes are kept short and succinct and while the politics is important, it's not boring and drawn out.

Hart and Soul by Nica Berry

Hart and Soul by Nica Berry
Stars: 3/5

Overall
Although there was plenty to enjoy in this story, there are some large parts of it that are difficult to get through, and I could see this stopping some readers from finishing it. I struggled with it and ended up skimming the parts that made me uncomfortable and would have preferred them not be in the story at all. I internally debated if they had a purpose, aside from plot and the author's attempt to show not tell about events, but couldn't find a reason for them to be in there that satisfactorily justified their presence.

Strengths
Characters. I really enjoyed Jennar, Niann, and Aspen, even though I wanted to smack Jennar upside the head and coddle Niann. I enjoyed the varying characteristics they each had, including their strengths and weaknesses, although it is the base of my frustration with Jennar. The feelings the two main characters feel for each other is a little hard to understand since so much of their time is spent apart, but through dreams and their constant focus on one another, I can wrap my head around their feelings. The antagonist of the story is good at being just that, and while some may have issues with the resolution, I found it appropriate with the lesson than Aspen was teaching.

Plot. While I may not have enjoyed how the author handled much of the plot, I did enjoy the overall plot and some of the places Berry went. The use of spirit animals as indicators of roles in the tribe was great, and the dual gender of the Deer was well handled in the end. The struggle, the action, the conflict and resolution were all well paced and interesting, and while some may see parts of the final resolution as a cop out, I found it acceptable and inline with the antagonist's character, plus it gave me a happy ending. The created world--ours in the past, perhaps--was enjoyable to spend some time in, even with some of the hardships that the characters experienced.

Struggle Against Society. Jennar's fight against his clan and the pre-existing ideas they've been led to believe was painful but right. It was powerful to see another example of how people will do horrible things to another individual because it is "right" and the group at large doesn't see how it hurts the other person, especially when that person has been led to believe he deserves it and it's his role. While sad, the resolution in this vein of the story had appropriate closure.

Weaknesses
Sex. The actual description of the sex is not what bothered me in this case. Instead, it's the type and amount. A large chunk of the sex described is heterosexual, which, while not what I look for in a M/M romance, is forgivable/understandable. What I found more difficult to swallow was the sex scenes that were equivalent to rape. While on some levels it wasn't (since the Deer "accepts" the role), on many levels it was and I felt wretched as I quickly skimmed over the parts. Although only the first is described in depth, I don't think the reader needed to constantly hear about it and this was a case where saying that it happened would have been enough. I found this to be the most frustrating element of this book and what earned it's low score.

True Love. Much of the relationship between Jennar and Niann doesn't seem to be built off much and in the beginning it's difficult to understand why they feel the way they do toward one another. Once the dreams start, I began to feel more of their connection, but in the beginning it was distant and difficult to grasp.

The Cat in the Cradle by Jay Bell

The Cat in the Cradle by Jay Bell
Stars: 4.5/5

Overall
I've had this book on my to-read list for a long time, and I kept promising myself that it would be next. But I kept putting it off because I'd heard such good things and I hate when my fantasies (no pun intended) are dashed. At one point I started it, but was distracted by a sexier, faster-moving book. I didn't know what to expect from this book going in, but I was pleasantly surprised by what I found there. Although the writing isn't amazing, it doesn't distract from the story telling either, which is vital, especially to this story.

Strengths
World building. While everything in the world was relatively simple, it was also in an odd way beautifully constructed. I loved the oligarchies with their primary and secondary abilities. I wish we could have found out more about the world (like how many people have powers? We see Green's workers, but very little else), but I'm also glad the story didn't get bogged down with trying to get too much information across even though I'd love to see more in this world!

Characters/plot. There was nice variety in the types of people that our heroes meet, and there was nice mix among the heroes. In the same vein, we had the main plot (stop the big bad) and then we had some other smaller plots that tied up in the end without overwhelming the rest of the story or distracting from the main purpose.

Resolution. I won't say much, but I like how everything turned out. It felt good.

Weaknesses
The writing is probably the weakest part of this novel, and it's by no stretch of the imagination bad. It's simple and direct, which once and a while came across clunky, but for the majority was fine. I think it worked to give the book a more "young adult" feel, and whether that was intended or not, I don't know. (Note, I'm not implying young adults can only read books with simple language, I'm just saying that it gives this book that feel.)

Points of view. While it didn't bother me like it normally does, we are once again treated to somewhat random head hopping. While I can understand the reasoning behind it, and I by all means enjoyed seeing what was happening, it was inconsistent, which pokes my button. I'm torn on the matter because it was used for some good reasons, but I also wonder if it could have been worked around. And then I think about not meeting the god of cats and I'm torn again, which is why this 'weakness' didn't diminish the score.

Truth in the Dark by Amy Lane

Truth in the Dark by Amy Lane
Stars: 5/5

Overall
Having heard nothing but good things about Truth in the Dark, I was excited--and hesitant--to read. Surely it couldn't live up to my expectations?

I was wrong. So wonderfully wrong. I was so moved by this book that I went on twitter and told everyone to read it, whether you enjoy reading two men having sex or not. You can skim those parts. This is a touching story of acceptance, love, and guilt. Of being ugly and being beautiful.

Read it, I don't think you'll be let down.

Strengths
Writing was probably the strongest part of this novel, because if it weren't for Lane's style and grace, so many things would have fallen apart. It would have come across cheesy, emo, or bland. But her descriptions bring the island and the characters to life, so that even if it is written in first person (which is not my preference for reading), we are not trapped inside Knife's head or heart.

All the rest. I'm exaggerating (a little) but just a run down of what I loved: Imagery, plot, characters, side characters, humor, twists that weren't really twists, and names.

Weaknesses
If there is one, it's the ending, but I can't even mark it as a weakness because it fit so very nicely. Yes, it dragged a little after the Big Drama, but it was very appropriate how the rest of the story unfolded, so it was worth reading.

PS. Some people may have more difficulty with the flowery, descriptive language. If that's not your cuppa tea, just be aware that you will face it going in. It's not too heavy with it, like JRR Tolkien, but it does weigh considerably in some chapters.

Like a Sparrow Through the Heart by Aggy Bird

Like a Sparrow Through the Heart by Aggy Bird
Stars: 5/5

Overall
Very enjoyable. Once again this is a free read (you can find it via the link (above). Although it is an LJ published story, there was promise of a PDF--which I couldn't find. However, I just copy and pasted the story into a word doc, then had amazon convert it for me, so I could read on my eReader. I tend to have lower expectations for free reads, because they tend to have minimal editing and no limit of what horrors can be posted.

However, once again I was delighted to find a well-written, well-edited story with a good mix of plot, romance, and humor. We follow the adventures of Flit and Talon, a sparrow and griffin shapeshifter, who accidentally meet. Talon is a bully, Flit has a penchant for fixing birds and sees Talon as a bird who needs fixing. He forces his company upon Talon, and comedy (and excitement) ensues.

Strengths
Writing is really what made this story work. The mix of sensitive subjects, heartbreak, humor and action only function because the author strings them together effortlessly. What starts as an almost comedy develops into something more, then transforms once again into a third incarnation that holds its own. Exploring all these different elements like the author did helped the story work and not become cliche, which was a real possibility.

Along these same lines, the author was good at developing small instances to remind the reader that these were not just humans that live among the clouds. They do pretty much have everything we do, which kept the author from having to create her own world, but there are little word choices that are cute and birdy (eg, poppypeacock, birdfriend [instead of boyfriend], finchtoast).

Although Talon is a bit of a grump in the beginning, Flit is a lovely little bird who is small and tough. There are a variety of side characters who make an appearance, most, amusingly, just being named after their bird-type (Robin, Finch Finchly). They work to keep the story going and break up the alone time that our two main characters have with one another.

Weaknesses
Not so much a weakness as a warning: There is violence/abuse in this story, and it follows a Beauty & the Beast motif. If this is unacceptable, then you will not enjoy this book! Flit enjoys a dominating man, which has previously landed him with abusive birdfriends, and in combination with his need to fix things, gets him into trouble (NOT that he warrants some of the things that happen to him). Talon has a temper, is aggressive and things nothing of smacking someone around. The combination leads to what could very easily be seen as an abusive relationship. I forgive it for two main reasons: 1. Flit isn't being kept there by Talon. In fact, he holds the power in the relationship via tail feather (aka, blackmail). 2. Talon is a brute, yes, but he doesn't really mean to be abusive (which sounds like denial/excusing, I know), and once things are pointed out to him, his behavior changes for the better (well, at least in Flit's case).

Fall by Alex Draven

Fall by Alex Draven
Stars: 2/5

Overall:
I enjoyed this story, and I enjoyed this world, but the reason it scored so low was because so much was confusing. There is so much here that can be fleshed out into a longer piece. I was even hoping that maybe this was just an off shoot of another story without any luck. I enjoyed the crabby centaur, the young go-getter, the conflict between them and their histories. The end confused me a little, as to why everything happened, even if I have an understanding of what happened. The history of everyone is a little fuzzy as well, although I grasped the basic plot.

This is meant to be M/M romance, but very little actually feels like it. Our main centaur had a male lover (boyfriend/significant other/grooming mate?) and there is the possibility of something between him and the young colt, but it's all kind of vague. This needed to be longer to explore the complex systems that were created.

Diego by Angel Martinez

Diego by Angel Martinez
Stars: 5/5

Overall:
Finn and Diego return! They've settled in Montana for a nice quiet life, but life with a pooka is rarely quiet for long. But really, this time it's Diego's fault. Mostly. A simple misunderstanding opens the Veil and a whole set of new problems. As Diego becomes more confident with himself and his magic, Finn begins to have doubts if he's the best thing for someone as wonderful as Diego. We follow the couple and their new friends between worlds and into trouble. Life really isn't going to be quiet for long...

I enjoyed this novel overall, even if there isn't much I can pinpoint at being its strong points. The exploration of the worlds and magics, the integration of politics, and the continued study of love between cultures all lent to a well constructed story.

What I liked
Action, world, politics. There were so many different elements in this story! We have the fae political scene, the mundane world's political scene, some shady Alien Business, and all mixed up with their continued struggle for romance. The story kept a good strong pace all the way through--I had trouble putting it down (much to the chagrin of my boss).

Emotions. I was so happy to see Finn struggle with new emotions he normally didn't have, and the parallel incidents of Finn's jealousy and Diego's jealousy and the reactions/end results.

What didn't work
Epilogue. I think it's the only thing I can complain about, and it's not even much to complain about. It was cute, just not completely my cup of tea.
SPOILER BELOW




**SPOILER**I'm not sure why I don't like weddings. Also, I was kind of hoping that Diego would somehow be immortal so he and Finn could be together forever. The pen thing was hilariously awesome though.**SPOILER**