Marked by Alex Hughes

Title: Marked
Author: Alex Hughes
Genre: Science Fiction
Series: Mindspace Investigation #3

Mass Market Paperback, 352 pages
Publication: April 1, 2014 by Roc

Source: I received a review copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.

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FORESEE NO EVIL.

Freelancing for the Atlanta PD isn’t exactly a secure career; my job’s been on the line almost as much as my life. But it’s a paycheck, and it keeps me from falling back into the drug habit. Plus, things are looking up with my sometimes-partner, Cherabino, even if she is still simmering over the telepathic Link I created by accident.

When my ex, Kara, shows up begging for my help, I find myself heading to the last place I ever expected to set foot in again—Guild headquarters—to investigate the death of her uncle. Joining that group was a bad idea the first time. Going back when I’m unwanted is downright dangerous.

Luckily, the Guild needs me more than they’re willing to admit. Kara’s uncle was acting strange before he died—crazy strange. In fact, his madness seems to be slowly spreading through the Guild. And when an army of powerful telepaths loses their marbles, suddenly it’s a game of life or death.…

Marked, the third installment in the Mindspace Investigation series was another great addition to the series! Like the first two books, Adam a level eight telepath helps with some interviews for the Atlanta PD and on occasions assist with Detective Cherabino on her homicides cases. Adam was kicked out of the Guild (Organization for people with special abilities) a long time ago for drug addiction but no matter how much he tries to distance himself, his job and the Guild always end up crossing paths.

I remember writing in my previous reviews for book 1 & 2 that I had hope to learn more about Mindspace, and how it worked overall but again readers don’t learn much more about the make-up of the world. That was somewhat disappointing. I mean I guess I understand the basics but I can’t help but wonder at the back of my mind more about Mindspace. However, Hughes did not leave readers completely hanging. In Marked, we get a more in depth look at the Guild and the people that run the organization. I thought that was interesting. What’s more shocking was that the Guild wasn’t as perfect as it made itself out to be; because behind all their laws and abilities, they are as corrupt and messed up as everyone else. Readers also saw more of the illegal tech and how it came into play with the cases and its ties to the Guild’s organization, and the Normal’s government. That was cool of course, but I felt like readers were just shown fancy expensive gadget. It didn’t really help or hinder the world-building. I again, rather learn more about Mindspace which I hope will be remedied in book four (there better be a book 4)!  It can come in any form, I don’t really mind as long as we get something…either from a flashback or Adam teaching Jacob about Guild history…now that he is required to have weekly lessons on controlling his teleportation.

I’ve always liked Adam’s character since I read Clean. A man who was at the lowest point in his life; being stripped of his Guild title, addicted to drugs that almost killed him and literally had nothing…yet instead of giving up he got clean and better. I admired his strength and determination. There may have been couple of times that he was tempted to do drugs but every single time he was about to fall off the wagon…he seek help and guidance from his sponsor Schwartz. There wasn’t much character development since the last book, but Adam is still trying to live on the straight and narrow…and for the most part he succeeded in this book. He never let anyone bully him into doing anything he didn’t want. Everything he did, he did because it was the right thing to do. He put his colleagues and the people he cared about above himself. What did change for Adam in Marked was his relationship with Detective Isabella Cherabino. Adam has always had a thing for his occasional partner (helped with her cases for years) but was too scared to act on his feelings. With a little push from his sponsor Schwatz, Adam ended up asking Cherabino on a date! I won’t go into any details but it was the cutest-sweetest thing I read. I liked that there was a little romance this time around. It was a nice balance to everything else that was going on in Adam’s life. He definitely deserved a happy moment, however brief it may be.

Marked was another well executed novel. I truly enjoyed the overall story and the wonderful characters that makeup the Mindspace Investigation world. I read the first two books about a year ago and found myself jumping back into Hughes’s World without any difficulty. I highly recommend this series to Scifi fans and even UF fans…I think Adam’s character will appeal to most people. I can’t wait to see what happens next for Adam, now that his relationship with both sides are better than where it was when we first met him in Clean.

 

The Nightmare Dilemma by Mindee Arnett

Title: The Nightmare Dilemma
Author: Mindee Arnett
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal
Series: The Arkwell Academy #2

Hardcover, 384 pages
Publication: March 4, 2014 by Tor Teen

Source: I received a review copy from the publicist in exchange for a honest review.

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Dusty Everhart might be able to predict the future through the dreams of her crush, Eli Booker, but that doesn’t make her life even remotely easy. When one of her mermaid friends is viciously assaulted and left for dead, and the school’s jokester, Lance Rathbone, is accused of the crime, Dusty’s as shocked as everybody else. Lance needs Dusty to prove his innocence by finding the real attacker, but that’s easier asked than done. Eli’s dreams are no help, more nightmares than prophecies.

To make matters worse, Dusty’s ex-boyfriend has just been acquitted of conspiracy and is now back at school, reminding Dusty of why she fell for him in the first place. The Magi Senate needs Dusty to get close to him, to discover his real motives. But this order infuriates Eli, who has started his own campaign for Dusty’s heart.

As Dusty takes on both cases, she begins to suspect they’re connected to something bigger. And there’s something very wrong with Eli’s dreams, signs that point to a darker plot than they could have ever imagined.

The Nightmare Dilemma is the sequel to last year’s fun paranormal mystery The Nightmare Affair. Dusty and the gang are all back in the latest installment. It’s been a month since Dusty and her friends defeated the Red Warlock and broken the Will (rule/law governing magic use) enabling everyone the freedom to use magic without any restrictions/consequences. Since Dusty, Eli and Selene worked so well together in solving the Red Warlock’s identity; they decided to start a private investigation business dubbed ‘The Dream Team’. Their most recent case involves a fellow mermaid classmate Britney who was attacked in the school’s underground alcoves’ and it is up to The Dream Team to figure out who the attacker is. And if that isn’t enough Lady Elaine puts Dusty on another case; to spy on her ex-boyfriend Paul Kirkwood who was just recently released from prison. The last time Dusty saw Paul was when he conspired with the Red Warlock and attempted to murder Dusty. Talk about a loaded job.

I really enjoyed The Nightmare Dilemma. It was so easy to slip back into Dusty’s world as if I never left. This time around readers are given a new mystery as we follow along with The Dream Team as they unearth clues the normal way; by investigating each potential suspect’s background, breaking into teacher’s office or student’s lockers and other times through Eli and Dusty’s Dream jumps. Like the first book Eli’s dreams hold clues to what will happen in the future and it is up to the two of them to make sense of Eli’s dreamscape to prevent it from coming true…for example in Eli’s dream important people and friends are shown dead! I also liked that Arnett expanded on the world showing us a political upheaval amongst the Magi Senate and the on-going animosity between Witch-kind, Dark-kind, and Nature-kind that all ties back into the mystery plot. Another plus was the incorporation of another well-known myth/legend that played in the background of the mystery and came full circle in the end. I’m not sure if readers remember but in the first book Arnett used Arthurian myth/legends and again the myth/legend the author used this time around was quit refreshing as I haven’t seen it used in many YA books. 

­­­Dusty was just as fun and snarky as the first book. As usual you can expect Dusty to speak her mind before she thinks…which always lands her in trouble or detention. But she is always doing whatever it takes to help prevent a disaster, even if it means breaking a few rules. And it was also nice to see the usual faces like Selene, Eli, and surprisingly once foe now friend Lance. Everyone certainly grown since the last book not much but after the battle with the Red Warlock…some of the characters definitely didn’t waste time preparing themselves if another battle or war ensued. It was actually fitting. Then there’s Eli and Dusty’s complicated relationship. At the end of the first book their relationship was starting to change but in The Nightmare Dilemma, they’re fighting their growing attraction to one another. And sadly it’s a little YA cliché, the two want to be together but because of –blank- reasons they can’t. However, I wasn’t as bothered with their situation as much as some readers because I was so into the mystery plot. It kept me engaged till the very end. 

The Nightmare Dilemma was an excellent sequel, and I’m happy to report it didn’t suffer the second book syndrome. And No love triangle, Yay (like the synopsis possibility hinted at)! And no cliffhanger! Well, although it ended abruptly and somewhat anticlimactic…it was tied up nonetheless.  The sequel was full of action, mystery, romance and was an all-around fun installment in the Arkwell Academy series. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I highly recommend this paranormal YA that’s kind of part Veronica Mars-part Nancy Drew sleuth mystery. A book anyone at any age will enjoy. 

Bronze Gods by A.A. Aguirre

Title: Bronze Gods
Author: A.A. Aguirre
Genre: Steampunk, Fantasy
Series: Apparatus Infernum #1

Mass Market Paperback, 322 pages
Publication: April 30, 2014 by ACE

Source: Purchased myself

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Hy Breasil is grimmer than it used to be.

Before the Architect closed the door, there were regular crossings, and a great war decimated both humans and Ferishers. The native fae who refused to treat with the invaders faded; their bodies withered and died, stranding them as hungry, angry spirits that haunt the countryside.

That means there’s always trouble brewing in Dorstaad.

Janus Mikani and Celeste Ritsuko work for the Criminal Investigation Department, keeping citizens safe from things that go bump in the night. He’s a hardboiled cynic with an uncanny sixth sense; she’s determined to justify her promotion as the first female detective in her division. Together, they’re trying to keep a black tide from drowning the city.

But when the second body surfaces, murdered with the same type of infernal device, the entire CID must face the truth. There’s a madman on the loose, twining magic and blood… and only Mikani and Ritsuko can unravel the intricate, lethal conspiracy before the Royale killer completes his macabre plan, unleashing old, forbidden magic on an unsuspecting populace. If the maniac succeeds, it could mean the end of everything…

I bought Bronze Gods for primarily two reasons; the cover and because it is half written by Ann Aguirre. I have only read one of Ann’s series (Corine Solomon series, the first book) but it was enough to know that I’ll probably like everything else she writes. You’re probably wondering if I even read the synopsis…I probably did but truthfully I don’t even remember it because when I started Bronze Gods my initial reaction was there’s fae in this book?! But I am so glad I bought this book because it exceeded my expectations yet I am kicking myself for reading it a year after I bought it. What was I thinking? 

The world building was done beautifully. The authors created such a vivid world, with realistic characters that you can’t help but emotionally empathize and connect with. The writing was superb, there were no detail too small to describe; from a description of a small loose button to the dark and grim atmosphere of Dorstaad. I was fully immersed into this wonderful new word that Ann and Andres created. I never once found myself questioning the make-up of the world/or its foundation. There were times I was a bit confused as to what was what because there were flashback/dreams sprinkled throughout the book (the time before the gates were closed to the faes)­­­­­­­  but I was able to make sense of things as the book progressed. And more so when the book concluded with most of my questions explained.

While the world building was incredible, the best part is actually the two leads. Bronze Gods is centered around two CID: Criminal Investigation Department inspectors, Ritsuko and Mikani who are working on a murder case. Someone or something is going around murdering daughters from prominent/Ferishers houses. I was a little worried that our two lead characters would be bland and boring…the whole stereotypical idea of two detectives with the label ‘one is the brain, the other the brawn of the operation’ is used synonymously when it comes to the Steampunk genre (most of the time, when it has the crime noir element). However, a couple of chapters in; I was assured that Mikani and Ritsuko are nothing of the sorts. Stereotypical that is. Both characters have so much depth, with rich history/background that made them come alive on paper. I like that they weren’t perfect either. Ritsuko is clever, organized, always poised while Mikani is the complete opposite. It was interesting to see two completely different type of people counterbalance one another perfectly. I love how the two worked together, their friendship and overall admiration for one another. They always had each other’s back no matter the situation; they were even willing to die for each other. It went beyond just partners, it was more…It was sweet. As you can guess, their work/friendship-relationship evolves over the course of the book into something more, a slow burning sexual tension between the two. Both Ritsuko and Mikani feel something but are too scared to risk the special bond they already have.  I mean something is definitely there, they feel it and the readers feel it…it just a matter of if or when will they act on these new feelings. Ritsuko and Mikani’s work/friendship-relationship had me thinking of Hank and Charlie (Charlie Madigan series by Kelly Gay, an awesome UF series I love). I LOVE Hank and Charlie, they are one of my all-time favorite lead couple/duo and Ritsuko and Mikani are very reminiscent of them…so it comes as no surprise that Ritsuko and Mikani just landed a spot on my favorites list. They are definitely characters readers will fall in love with and will root for…I already am.

Overall Bronze Gods was an excellent debut by wife and husband team, Ann and Andres Aguirre. It is everything a Steampunk should be; excellent world building, characters, and mystery plot and a dash of romance. The ending wrapped up nicely answering questions to the current problem (for the most part) but also leaves an opening for the next book, SILVER MIRRORS which comes out next month! I am super excited and can’t wait to see what happens next with Mikani and Ritsuko! I loved this book way more than I expected, and would highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys Steampunk, PNR and UF…not a series to be missed. Read it, you won’t regret it!

Review: Divergent by Veronica Roth

Title: Divergent
Author: Veronica Roth
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian
Series: Divergent #1

Hardcover, 487 pages
Publication: April 25, 2011 by Katherine Tegen Books 

Source: From personal library, for my own reading.  

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In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue--Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is--she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are--and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves . . . or it might destroy her.

I’ve jumped on the bandwagon, and finally read Divergent. To be honest, I wasn’t planning to. I remember when the book first came out and heard all the hype surrounding this book...I didn’t want to read it. I even thought, man another book trying to be like The Hunger Games. No thank you. I know I shouldn’t be comparing books, but sometimes it’s hard not to. All the dystopians out right now are all reminiscent of one another; in my opinion at least. But I shouldn’t have compared it to the Hunger Games before I’ve read it because after reading it…they aren’t similar. I initially read Divergent because I saw how awesome the movie trailer was, and like all bookies…I had to read the book before seeing the movie. I’m so glad I gave this book a chance; it was way better than I expect…even better than The Hunger Games (yes, I said it).

I really love Roth’s futuristic Chicago and the idea of having the society split up into five different factions (depending on which quality/trait you posse more of). Once a person turns sixteen they are required to take an aptitude test to determine which faction they will permanently be part of. Beatrice/Tris (later on) our main heroine is from the Abnegation (selfless) Faction but after an inconclusive testing showing she’s divergent (meaning she posses a trait from more than one faction) she joins Dauntless (brave). Things get interesting once Tris starts her initiation, where she and the others initiates are tested physically, emotionally and mentally. The stakes are extremely high because Tris not only has to hide the fact that she’s divergent but she has to successfully pass the test to secure a permanent spot as a Dauntless since there are only 10 available spots. If a person fails their trials they become faction-less; which is like being homeless with jobs such as a truck driver or janitor. For the majority of the book, readers are alongside Tris learning the ins and outs of Dauntless; which I didn’t mind because I got the impression that Dauntless is the most exciting faction of the five.

Tris takes on a major transformation over the course of the book. I love seeing her character grow albeit a bit quick given the book spans, what a couple of weeks? But it still felt realistic given she already carried some of the traits while in Abnegation unconsciously, instead we see her break out of her shy shell. Tris being divergent carried both Abnegation and Dauntless traits and it is these traits that pushed her to be brave and strong. I like Tris, she isn’t like other usual dystopian female leads I’ve read; she wasn’t already strong or skilled from the start instead she learned to develop her strength and skill after practicing and observing others. Tris was beaten up and made fun of constantly and yet she never once backed down or cowered. She took all that anger and put it into beating the other initiates when it came to the trials. I also enjoyed seeing Tris and Four’s relationship development. It was sweet and realistic as it gradually grew. It wasn’t till the end of the book that they were official a couple.

Amazing world building, great characters, and unique plot; what’s not to love about Divergent? I now understand why so many people love this book/series and why this series out sold The Hunger Games. Roth’s did an amazing job in creating such a rich and multifaceted world and I can’t wait to dive into book 2 and 3! The writing and pacing was perfect. I finished this book in less than 2 days which hasn’t happened in a verrrryy long time for any books! I highly recommend this series to everyone. If you haven’t already read it (but again, who am I kidding everyone read it) you definitely won’t regret it.