vampires, shape-shifters, and witches, oh my! - Supernatural reads
For those of you who love to read about vampires, werewolves, shape-shifters, angels, mermaids, fairies, witches, psychics, superheroes or other supernatural creatures, these are the books for you. There are books on this list for guys and girls. Most of these books are a part of a large series. There are lots of other books in this genre, but these are my personal favorites.
2020-2021
Crescent City by Sarah J. Maas
A year ago, Bryce Quinlan (half-human/half-fae) was destroyed when her best friends were killed by a demon. With the killer behind bars, Bryce parties to attempt to forget her loss. When the crimes start up again, Bryce gets pulled into the investigation, and she is forced to work with Hunter Athalar, a fallen archangel warrior who is now a slave to the archangels he attempted to overthrow. His latest boss tells him he will win his freedom if he can solve the case, but he is certain that Bryce, the shallow and powerless party girl, will only hinder his hunt. With so much on the line, the party girl and dark angel unhappily agree to work together. As Bryce and Hunt chase leads, they not only discover disturbing dark secrets being kept in their city but also that each of them is much more than the facade they show the world. As their distrust transforms into a bewitching passion and respect, it is obvious that the person behind the crimes will stop at nothing to keep them from solving the case. The problem is that this person didn't realize that Bryce and Hunt, two people with nothing to lose and everything to gain, are willing to die to reveal the truth and protect those they love. This book is a slow burn with a fiery finish. Once again, Maas has created an unbeatable cast of characters that you can't help but cheer for as they valiantly fight their own and real demons and attempt to keep their loved ones and their city safe. Although this book is marketed for adults, , you will love this one if you have read her Court of Thorns and Roses series. I can't wait for the next book in the series, but I think I will be rereading this book many times before it is available. Highly, highly recommended!
A year ago, Bryce Quinlan (half-human/half-fae) was destroyed when her best friends were killed by a demon. With the killer behind bars, Bryce parties to attempt to forget her loss. When the crimes start up again, Bryce gets pulled into the investigation, and she is forced to work with Hunter Athalar, a fallen archangel warrior who is now a slave to the archangels he attempted to overthrow. His latest boss tells him he will win his freedom if he can solve the case, but he is certain that Bryce, the shallow and powerless party girl, will only hinder his hunt. With so much on the line, the party girl and dark angel unhappily agree to work together. As Bryce and Hunt chase leads, they not only discover disturbing dark secrets being kept in their city but also that each of them is much more than the facade they show the world. As their distrust transforms into a bewitching passion and respect, it is obvious that the person behind the crimes will stop at nothing to keep them from solving the case. The problem is that this person didn't realize that Bryce and Hunt, two people with nothing to lose and everything to gain, are willing to die to reveal the truth and protect those they love. This book is a slow burn with a fiery finish. Once again, Maas has created an unbeatable cast of characters that you can't help but cheer for as they valiantly fight their own and real demons and attempt to keep their loved ones and their city safe. Although this book is marketed for adults, , you will love this one if you have read her Court of Thorns and Roses series. I can't wait for the next book in the series, but I think I will be rereading this book many times before it is available. Highly, highly recommended!
Serpent & the Dove by Shelby Mahurin
For two years, Lou has hidden in Cesarine, forsaking all magic as she hides from coven, the people who tried to kill her. Reid has sworn his life to the church as a Chasseur, a man whose sworn mission in life is to kill all witches. When the two are forced to wed, both are furious. Lou can't stand rules, and Reid religiously follows every rule. Lou knows it will be very dangerous to live at the church with the Chasseurs, but she is hoping her gamble will also keep her hidden from a person she fears even more. Reid is angry by every crude and crazy thing Lou does, but as his wife, he will protect her. It would be insanity for them to fall in love, but sometimes insanity is just what you need. When Lou's life is threatened, Reid, a former witch killer, finds out how far he will go to protect a witch. This book is perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas! The characters are imperfect yet lovable, unique yet familiar, and deceptive yet loyal. I fell in love with Lou as soon as she began singing bawdy songs to disrupt the Chasseurs. Readers will cheer for Lou and Reid, and thankfully, book two, Honey and Blood, just came out with the third book coming out next year. For fans of fantasy romance, this is the perfect fix. Highly, highly recommended!
For two years, Lou has hidden in Cesarine, forsaking all magic as she hides from coven, the people who tried to kill her. Reid has sworn his life to the church as a Chasseur, a man whose sworn mission in life is to kill all witches. When the two are forced to wed, both are furious. Lou can't stand rules, and Reid religiously follows every rule. Lou knows it will be very dangerous to live at the church with the Chasseurs, but she is hoping her gamble will also keep her hidden from a person she fears even more. Reid is angry by every crude and crazy thing Lou does, but as his wife, he will protect her. It would be insanity for them to fall in love, but sometimes insanity is just what you need. When Lou's life is threatened, Reid, a former witch killer, finds out how far he will go to protect a witch. This book is perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas! The characters are imperfect yet lovable, unique yet familiar, and deceptive yet loyal. I fell in love with Lou as soon as she began singing bawdy songs to disrupt the Chasseurs. Readers will cheer for Lou and Reid, and thankfully, book two, Honey and Blood, just came out with the third book coming out next year. For fans of fantasy romance, this is the perfect fix. Highly, highly recommended!
2019-2020
NInth House by Leigh Bardugo
For years, the world has been fascinated with Yale's Skull & Bone society and other secret groups like it. There are all kinds of rumors about what happens in these elite and mysterious groups. However, no one could ever guess that their source of power is magic. These societies are some of the last in the word with a direct link to magic, and each group can perform different dark rituals to gain power. Due to a few "unfortunate" deaths in the past, these societies are now supervised by the Ninth House, the society whose job it is to make sure that their magic is not used to hurt others. Darlington is the student in charge of Ninth House. His new second is Alex Stern, a girl whose life has been defined and destroyed by her ability to see and communicate with ghosts. This gift has almost killed her, but it also was the reason why she was given a full-ride to Yale to work for Ninth House. Alex has been living on the streets of LA, using, and barely surviving high school, and now she is trying to survive ivy league coursework and the society's dark workings, a world she doesn't fit in with. Just as Alex is starting to find her footing, Darlington disappears and a local girl is found dead on Yale's campus. All the societies claim they weren't involved, and Alex is told not to investigate. However, Alex's instincts are screaming at her that this is exactly what the Ninth House should investigate and that perhaps even Darlington's disappearance is tied to the case. She is willing to use any means necessary to get justice for this forgotten girl and bring Darlington home, and it is sure to get bloody. This dark and atmospheric mystery builds slowly at first as you are introduced to Alex and her dark past, Darlington and his love of magic, and the dark rituals of the different secret societies. The action and suspense really pick up when Alex starts actively investigating the murder. Bardugo has filled the plot with dark and surprising twists that will make your zip through the second half of the book. The damaged Alex Stern reminds me a lot of Stieg Larsson's Liz Salender; both survived unspeakable tragedy to become fierce defenders of the defenseless. Both are powerful women who are willing to die to get the truth. Both make you fall in love with them even though they are sure to break you. By the end of the book, you will be dying for the next one, which doesn't release for at least another year. Bardrugo has always been a master of atmospheric language to build mood and complex and compelling characters, and this, her first adult work, cements her reputation. Highly, highly recommended!
For years, the world has been fascinated with Yale's Skull & Bone society and other secret groups like it. There are all kinds of rumors about what happens in these elite and mysterious groups. However, no one could ever guess that their source of power is magic. These societies are some of the last in the word with a direct link to magic, and each group can perform different dark rituals to gain power. Due to a few "unfortunate" deaths in the past, these societies are now supervised by the Ninth House, the society whose job it is to make sure that their magic is not used to hurt others. Darlington is the student in charge of Ninth House. His new second is Alex Stern, a girl whose life has been defined and destroyed by her ability to see and communicate with ghosts. This gift has almost killed her, but it also was the reason why she was given a full-ride to Yale to work for Ninth House. Alex has been living on the streets of LA, using, and barely surviving high school, and now she is trying to survive ivy league coursework and the society's dark workings, a world she doesn't fit in with. Just as Alex is starting to find her footing, Darlington disappears and a local girl is found dead on Yale's campus. All the societies claim they weren't involved, and Alex is told not to investigate. However, Alex's instincts are screaming at her that this is exactly what the Ninth House should investigate and that perhaps even Darlington's disappearance is tied to the case. She is willing to use any means necessary to get justice for this forgotten girl and bring Darlington home, and it is sure to get bloody. This dark and atmospheric mystery builds slowly at first as you are introduced to Alex and her dark past, Darlington and his love of magic, and the dark rituals of the different secret societies. The action and suspense really pick up when Alex starts actively investigating the murder. Bardugo has filled the plot with dark and surprising twists that will make your zip through the second half of the book. The damaged Alex Stern reminds me a lot of Stieg Larsson's Liz Salender; both survived unspeakable tragedy to become fierce defenders of the defenseless. Both are powerful women who are willing to die to get the truth. Both make you fall in love with them even though they are sure to break you. By the end of the book, you will be dying for the next one, which doesn't release for at least another year. Bardrugo has always been a master of atmospheric language to build mood and complex and compelling characters, and this, her first adult work, cements her reputation. Highly, highly recommended!
Before 2019
Black City by Elizabeth Richards
Imagine a love so powerful that it literally causes your heart to come alive. Ash is half-darkling who does not fit in with humans or darklings. Natalie is a human girl whose father has been working to eradicate all darklings. When they meet unexpectedly, they do the unthinkable. They fall in love. The punishment for any human and darkling relations is death, so they initially try to deny their feelings. However, their connection is so deep that it causes her heart to beat faster and his to beat for the first time. A powerful romance that will appeal to vampire fans.
Imagine a love so powerful that it literally causes your heart to come alive. Ash is half-darkling who does not fit in with humans or darklings. Natalie is a human girl whose father has been working to eradicate all darklings. When they meet unexpectedly, they do the unthinkable. They fall in love. The punishment for any human and darkling relations is death, so they initially try to deny their feelings. However, their connection is so deep that it causes her heart to beat faster and his to beat for the first time. A powerful romance that will appeal to vampire fans.
Blood and Chocolate by Annette Curtis Klause
Vivian is a teenage werewolf whose pack has been scattered after a fire destroyed their home and killed their leader, Vivian's father. Stuck in town and uncomfortable with her former packmates, she goes to school and falls for Aiden, a boy whose writings reveal his belief in magic. Although werewolves are not allowed to date humans or reveal their secret to them, Vivian is sure that Aiden will love her true self. However, as a set of brutal murders threaten to expose the pack, Vivian must reconsider who she can trust. What tastes sweeter to her - blood or chocolate? This is one of my all-time favorite books. I read it at least once a year. Vivian is such an appealing narrator that you can't stop yourself from getting pulled into her indecision. She loves the pack and Aiden, but she does not know if she can trust either. She loves being able to howl at the moon, but she also loves her new human friends. The romance in the novel is steamy, and the murder mystery is surprising and bloody. It is a phenomenal read. I highly recommend it to all fans of supernatural fiction.
Vivian is a teenage werewolf whose pack has been scattered after a fire destroyed their home and killed their leader, Vivian's father. Stuck in town and uncomfortable with her former packmates, she goes to school and falls for Aiden, a boy whose writings reveal his belief in magic. Although werewolves are not allowed to date humans or reveal their secret to them, Vivian is sure that Aiden will love her true self. However, as a set of brutal murders threaten to expose the pack, Vivian must reconsider who she can trust. What tastes sweeter to her - blood or chocolate? This is one of my all-time favorite books. I read it at least once a year. Vivian is such an appealing narrator that you can't stop yourself from getting pulled into her indecision. She loves the pack and Aiden, but she does not know if she can trust either. She loves being able to howl at the moon, but she also loves her new human friends. The romance in the novel is steamy, and the murder mystery is surprising and bloody. It is a phenomenal read. I highly recommend it to all fans of supernatural fiction.
Book of Shadows by Cate Tiernan
When the new guy at school starts a Wicca club, Morgan decides to join. She and her friends are enjoying their new club when Morgan learns that magic is for real. She is a witch gifted with an enormous amount of real magic. Suddenly, everyone is interested in Morgan and her powers, and she is no longer certain who she can trust. Warning: This series is highly addictive! If you don't want to find yourself reading without stop until you make it through all fifteen books in the series, do not pick up this book.
When the new guy at school starts a Wicca club, Morgan decides to join. She and her friends are enjoying their new club when Morgan learns that magic is for real. She is a witch gifted with an enormous amount of real magic. Suddenly, everyone is interested in Morgan and her powers, and she is no longer certain who she can trust. Warning: This series is highly addictive! If you don't want to find yourself reading without stop until you make it through all fifteen books in the series, do not pick up this book.
A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb
Helen has been a ghost for 130 years, and no one, even the people she haunts, has ever seen or felt her presence. Then one day she feels a boy watching her. She doesn't understand why he can see her, but she loves being seen and loved. As this unlikely pair struggles to be together, the secrets of the past come back to haunt them both. This atmospheric and romantic ghost story is a hidden gem. Highly recommended!
Helen has been a ghost for 130 years, and no one, even the people she haunts, has ever seen or felt her presence. Then one day she feels a boy watching her. She doesn't understand why he can see her, but she loves being seen and loved. As this unlikely pair struggles to be together, the secrets of the past come back to haunt them both. This atmospheric and romantic ghost story is a hidden gem. Highly recommended!
City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
What do you do when you learn everything you believed to be true about your family, life and world is one big lie? Clary and her best friend Simon head out to a club in NYC for a night of thoughtless fun. While there, Clary sees a group of teens with strange tattoos kill a boy. When the body disappears, Clary is shocked. The next day Jace, the leader of the group, finds her and informs her that he is Shadowhunter, trained to hunt and kill demons. Jace is intrigued by Clary's unusual ability to see through their glamours. When Clary comes home to find her house ransacked, her mother missing, and a demon trying to kill her, Jace saves her and takes her back the Institute where he trains. There Clary learns that the reason she could see the Shadowhunters is because she and her mother are Shadowhunters as well. Since she was a child, her mother had repressed Clary's abilities to protect her from the dangers of the Shadowhunting world. Now, Clary must learn to become a Shadowhunter if she is to get her mother back. As Jace works with Clary, the boy who trusts no one, starts to let himself dream of something more. However, this couple must face a lot more secrets, lies, and demons if they are ever to get a happy ending. This six book series is an essential read for supernatural fans. Told from various points of views, guys and gals can enjoy the action, intrigue, violence, and romance of this stellar series. Originally meant to be a three book series, Clare added three more books to keep their stories going. I can read the series over again and again, and I can't wait to read Clare's new series about the Los Angeles Shadowhunting Institute. Must read!
What do you do when you learn everything you believed to be true about your family, life and world is one big lie? Clary and her best friend Simon head out to a club in NYC for a night of thoughtless fun. While there, Clary sees a group of teens with strange tattoos kill a boy. When the body disappears, Clary is shocked. The next day Jace, the leader of the group, finds her and informs her that he is Shadowhunter, trained to hunt and kill demons. Jace is intrigued by Clary's unusual ability to see through their glamours. When Clary comes home to find her house ransacked, her mother missing, and a demon trying to kill her, Jace saves her and takes her back the Institute where he trains. There Clary learns that the reason she could see the Shadowhunters is because she and her mother are Shadowhunters as well. Since she was a child, her mother had repressed Clary's abilities to protect her from the dangers of the Shadowhunting world. Now, Clary must learn to become a Shadowhunter if she is to get her mother back. As Jace works with Clary, the boy who trusts no one, starts to let himself dream of something more. However, this couple must face a lot more secrets, lies, and demons if they are ever to get a happy ending. This six book series is an essential read for supernatural fans. Told from various points of views, guys and gals can enjoy the action, intrigue, violence, and romance of this stellar series. Originally meant to be a three book series, Clare added three more books to keep their stories going. I can read the series over again and again, and I can't wait to read Clare's new series about the Los Angeles Shadowhunting Institute. Must read!
Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
If you can't get enough of the Shadowhunters, read Clare's prequel series, The Infernal Devices. The series opens with Clockwork Angel. In 1878, Tessa Gray has come to London in search for her brother. When she is attacked upon arrival, two demon-fighting boys, Will and Jem, save her. It quickly become apparent that Tessa is essential to stopping a terrible enemy. The heat escalates as Tessa is drawn to both boys, and no path seems certain. Clare is a masterful storyteller, and this is series a fantastic addition to the Shadow Hunters cannon.
If you can't get enough of the Shadowhunters, read Clare's prequel series, The Infernal Devices. The series opens with Clockwork Angel. In 1878, Tessa Gray has come to London in search for her brother. When she is attacked upon arrival, two demon-fighting boys, Will and Jem, save her. It quickly become apparent that Tessa is essential to stopping a terrible enemy. The heat escalates as Tessa is drawn to both boys, and no path seems certain. Clare is a masterful storyteller, and this is series a fantastic addition to the Shadow Hunters cannon.
The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black
Tana wakes up from a wild party surrounded by bodies. During the night, vampires entered the house and killed almost everyone. The only others to survive were her ex-boyfriend and a vampire, left tied up by his brethren. Uncertain if they are infected, Tana decides their only hope of survival is to head to a Coldtown, where vampires and humans live together. Years before, she had swore she would rather die than go there because once there, you can never leave. However, they are being hunted, and desperate times call for desperate measures. If you are looking for bloodthirsty vampires, this is your book. Highly recommended!
Tana wakes up from a wild party surrounded by bodies. During the night, vampires entered the house and killed almost everyone. The only others to survive were her ex-boyfriend and a vampire, left tied up by his brethren. Uncertain if they are infected, Tana decides their only hope of survival is to head to a Coldtown, where vampires and humans live together. Years before, she had swore she would rather die than go there because once there, you can never leave. However, they are being hunted, and desperate times call for desperate measures. If you are looking for bloodthirsty vampires, this is your book. Highly recommended!
Croak by Gina Damico
For years Lex has been getting into fights and all kinds of trouble, and neither Lex nor her loving family can explain why she acts so wild. When Lex is sent to live her Uncle Mort in a strange town called Croak in upstate New York for the summer, she finally learns the reason for her bizarre behavior. Like her strange uncle, Lex is meant to be a grim reaper. As she works to hone her skills, Lex becomes frustrated with her inability to protect others from those who seek to harm. Will her search for justice lead to her destiny or destruction? This supernatural thriller is quirky, surprising, and sarcastic. A slew of strange characters and inventive scenes will make you want to pick up the entire series.
For years Lex has been getting into fights and all kinds of trouble, and neither Lex nor her loving family can explain why she acts so wild. When Lex is sent to live her Uncle Mort in a strange town called Croak in upstate New York for the summer, she finally learns the reason for her bizarre behavior. Like her strange uncle, Lex is meant to be a grim reaper. As she works to hone her skills, Lex becomes frustrated with her inability to protect others from those who seek to harm. Will her search for justice lead to her destiny or destruction? This supernatural thriller is quirky, surprising, and sarcastic. A slew of strange characters and inventive scenes will make you want to pick up the entire series.
The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
When Jude was seven, she watched as a fairy knight murdered her parents and whisked she and her sisters to the fairy realm. Even though humans were despised by most fair folk, Jude has grown to love this dark and magical realm and longs to become a knight like her adoptive father. By becoming a knight, she will have the power to stop some of the most evil fairies, especially the cruel Prince Cardan, who delights in torturing her. When a horrific betrayal threatens to destroy her world, Jude will find out how far she is willing to go to make things right. This wicked and wonderful tale will ensnare you. Jude is brave and brutal as she fights not to be corrupted while fighting to the death to make the fairy realm better. As the lines between right and wrong begin to blur, Black makes the reader question what truly makes someone good or evil. Black knows how to create characters that grip you and a plot that will shock you. I can't wait to read the upcoming book in the series, The Wicked King, to see how Highly recommended!
When Jude was seven, she watched as a fairy knight murdered her parents and whisked she and her sisters to the fairy realm. Even though humans were despised by most fair folk, Jude has grown to love this dark and magical realm and longs to become a knight like her adoptive father. By becoming a knight, she will have the power to stop some of the most evil fairies, especially the cruel Prince Cardan, who delights in torturing her. When a horrific betrayal threatens to destroy her world, Jude will find out how far she is willing to go to make things right. This wicked and wonderful tale will ensnare you. Jude is brave and brutal as she fights not to be corrupted while fighting to the death to make the fairy realm better. As the lines between right and wrong begin to blur, Black makes the reader question what truly makes someone good or evil. Black knows how to create characters that grip you and a plot that will shock you. I can't wait to read the upcoming book in the series, The Wicked King, to see how Highly recommended!
Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor
Karou is girl with blue hair living in Prague. Although she looks human, she knows she is somehow different. For one, she was raised by Chimera, animal-like creatures, who sent her on missions throughout the world and taught her magic was real and powerful. At the same time, she goes to art school and has human friends. Karou doesn't know how she fits into the world until she meets an angel with fiery wings. This angel recognizes her, and their story will change the world as they know it. This supernatural series is one of my favorites. Taylor is an exquisite wordsmith, and it feels like you enter a dream world when you are reading. The characters are complex and unforgettable. If you are looking for gorgeously written and romantic series, this is an essential read. Highly recommended!
Karou is girl with blue hair living in Prague. Although she looks human, she knows she is somehow different. For one, she was raised by Chimera, animal-like creatures, who sent her on missions throughout the world and taught her magic was real and powerful. At the same time, she goes to art school and has human friends. Karou doesn't know how she fits into the world until she meets an angel with fiery wings. This angel recognizes her, and their story will change the world as they know it. This supernatural series is one of my favorites. Taylor is an exquisite wordsmith, and it feels like you enter a dream world when you are reading. The characters are complex and unforgettable. If you are looking for gorgeously written and romantic series, this is an essential read. Highly recommended!
Department 19 by Will Hill
You may have thought that the Dracula story was just a myth, but Van Helsing and the others who fought him know differently. After they destroyed him, his original hunters decided to create Department 19, a secret British organization tasked with hunting and controlling supernatural creatures that seek to destroy the world. When Jamie's mother is kidnapped by vampires, he discovers that his dad worked for Department 19 and supposedly, betrayed them. Jamie can't believe his honest father would do something so terrible. So, he must not only train in order to save his mother, but he must also try to clear his father's name. In the process, things get a little "messy." This vampire horror story is even better after you have read Stoker's Dracula.
You may have thought that the Dracula story was just a myth, but Van Helsing and the others who fought him know differently. After they destroyed him, his original hunters decided to create Department 19, a secret British organization tasked with hunting and controlling supernatural creatures that seek to destroy the world. When Jamie's mother is kidnapped by vampires, he discovers that his dad worked for Department 19 and supposedly, betrayed them. Jamie can't believe his honest father would do something so terrible. So, he must not only train in order to save his mother, but he must also try to clear his father's name. In the process, things get a little "messy." This vampire horror story is even better after you have read Stoker's Dracula.
Diviners by LIbba Bray
In 1920's America, Evie is a flapper, a modern girl who happens to have the ability to divine secrets from items that she touches. At the last party she attended, she shared some shocking secrets of a gentleman there, and as punishment, Evie has been sent to live with her uncle in NYC who runs a museum about the occult. Of course, Evie is over the moon about living in NYC; it is THE place to meet the most interesting people and attend the most shocking parties. When her uncle is brought in as a consultant on a series of horrifying murders, Evie decides to use her gift to help solve the case. What she discovers is that this murderer is going to be harder than most to catch: a dark spirit of an evil man who plans to keep killing until has gathered the objects needed to wake the beast. To stop him, other gifted teens throughout the city are going to be forced to learn to listen to and control their gifts. This book is horror-supernatural-historical fiction-romance. When I read this book, I felt like I was living in the 1920's NYC of speakeasies, Ziegfield girls, flappers, and segregation. I found the murder mystery gruesome and mesmerizing. I love learning the storylines of Bray's huge cast of characters. I can't wait for the series to continue!
In 1920's America, Evie is a flapper, a modern girl who happens to have the ability to divine secrets from items that she touches. At the last party she attended, she shared some shocking secrets of a gentleman there, and as punishment, Evie has been sent to live with her uncle in NYC who runs a museum about the occult. Of course, Evie is over the moon about living in NYC; it is THE place to meet the most interesting people and attend the most shocking parties. When her uncle is brought in as a consultant on a series of horrifying murders, Evie decides to use her gift to help solve the case. What she discovers is that this murderer is going to be harder than most to catch: a dark spirit of an evil man who plans to keep killing until has gathered the objects needed to wake the beast. To stop him, other gifted teens throughout the city are going to be forced to learn to listen to and control their gifts. This book is horror-supernatural-historical fiction-romance. When I read this book, I felt like I was living in the 1920's NYC of speakeasies, Ziegfield girls, flappers, and segregation. I found the murder mystery gruesome and mesmerizing. I love learning the storylines of Bray's huge cast of characters. I can't wait for the series to continue!
Firebug by Lish McBride
Ava is a firebug, a person who can start fires with her mind. She could deal with this better if she was not owned by the Coterie, a mafia-like group of magical creatures, and used as a hitman. This especially burns because she is forced to work for Venus, the vampire responsible for her mother's death. Unfortunately, saying no to the Coterie means a torturous death for you and those close to you, so Ava can't escape. When the Coterie ask her to take out a close family friend, Ava rebels. As she and her unusual group of friends (a werefox, a half-dryad, a golem-maker, and some nasty werehares) struggle to stay a step ahead of the Coterie, the price of Ava's freedom may cost her more than she is willing to accept. This new novel from Lish McBride, the author of the cult-hit Hold Me Closer, Necromancer, will please her fans. It is set in the same world as her first books but it another part of the country. Readers can only hope that Ava will eventually meet up with Sam and his crew. The same sarcastic banter is there as is the original cast of characters that you wish were your friends. The only thing I disliked about the book was its abrupt ending; I can only hope that there will be another book to resolve more of Ava's issues, especially her love life. This new supernatural book will set you on fire and make you ask for more!
Ava is a firebug, a person who can start fires with her mind. She could deal with this better if she was not owned by the Coterie, a mafia-like group of magical creatures, and used as a hitman. This especially burns because she is forced to work for Venus, the vampire responsible for her mother's death. Unfortunately, saying no to the Coterie means a torturous death for you and those close to you, so Ava can't escape. When the Coterie ask her to take out a close family friend, Ava rebels. As she and her unusual group of friends (a werefox, a half-dryad, a golem-maker, and some nasty werehares) struggle to stay a step ahead of the Coterie, the price of Ava's freedom may cost her more than she is willing to accept. This new novel from Lish McBride, the author of the cult-hit Hold Me Closer, Necromancer, will please her fans. It is set in the same world as her first books but it another part of the country. Readers can only hope that Ava will eventually meet up with Sam and his crew. The same sarcastic banter is there as is the original cast of characters that you wish were your friends. The only thing I disliked about the book was its abrupt ending; I can only hope that there will be another book to resolve more of Ava's issues, especially her love life. This new supernatural book will set you on fire and make you ask for more!
The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kiera Cross
Finley Jayne is not your normal Victorian girl. There is something dangerous inside her, just waiting to be released. When her employer attacks her, she knocks him out in one punch and ends up on the streets. There she is discovered by Griffin King, who sees her powers as a gift instead of a defect, and wants to help her harness them. He invites her to join his group of gifted misfits as they look to take the criminal mastermind known as "The Machinist." As they fight to take him down, the Machinist attacks them from within, and Finley will have to prove to herself and her new family that she has control of the darkness. This steampunk re-imagining of the Jekyll/Hyde story is a fast and fun adventure filled with romance and mystery.
Finley Jayne is not your normal Victorian girl. There is something dangerous inside her, just waiting to be released. When her employer attacks her, she knocks him out in one punch and ends up on the streets. There she is discovered by Griffin King, who sees her powers as a gift instead of a defect, and wants to help her harness them. He invites her to join his group of gifted misfits as they look to take the criminal mastermind known as "The Machinist." As they fight to take him down, the Machinist attacks them from within, and Finley will have to prove to herself and her new family that she has control of the darkness. This steampunk re-imagining of the Jekyll/Hyde story is a fast and fun adventure filled with romance and mystery.
Half Bad by Sally Green
The best book of 2014 was the first book I read this summer, Half Bad. Nathan lives in a black and white world. Witches are either good whites or bad blacks. The problem is that Nathan is gray; his father is the most feared black witch and his mother was a white witch. Uncertain which parent Nate would take after, he has grown up hated, feared, isolated, and abused. In the beginning of the book, Nathan is being held in a cage and trained like an animal to use his gifts to hunt his father and prove his goodness. When Nathan escapes, his must prove to the world and himself if he is good or bad or a little of both. This is the most fascinating and original novel that I have read in a long time, and I can't wait for the end of March to bring me book two, Half Wild. As you read, you are not sure if Nathan is good or bad, but it is easy to see that white regime of good has brought only horrors to him. You won't be able to stop thinking about this tale of good and evil and everything inbetween. This is a must read!
The best book of 2014 was the first book I read this summer, Half Bad. Nathan lives in a black and white world. Witches are either good whites or bad blacks. The problem is that Nathan is gray; his father is the most feared black witch and his mother was a white witch. Uncertain which parent Nate would take after, he has grown up hated, feared, isolated, and abused. In the beginning of the book, Nathan is being held in a cage and trained like an animal to use his gifts to hunt his father and prove his goodness. When Nathan escapes, his must prove to the world and himself if he is good or bad or a little of both. This is the most fascinating and original novel that I have read in a long time, and I can't wait for the end of March to bring me book two, Half Wild. As you read, you are not sure if Nathan is good or bad, but it is easy to see that white regime of good has brought only horrors to him. You won't be able to stop thinking about this tale of good and evil and everything inbetween. This is a must read!
Hold Me Closer, Necromancer by Lish McBride
Sam hasn't done much with his life. He dropped out of college, has yet to have a girlfriend, and works at a fast food joint. His life changes dramatically when he meets a man named Douglas, who informs him that both Sam and Douglas are necromancers, meaning magic is real and Sam has it. Sam thinks it is all joke until Douglas sends him his best friends head in a box, and still talking. Horrifically, Sam and his friends are thrown into a world where magic is real and dangerous. If Sam can't control his powers quickly, he will become one of the undead as well. This is one of those book gems where the characters are so authentic and quirky that you wish they were your friends. If you love sarcasm, you must read this book. If you love tales of the undead, you must read this book. If you love good books, you need to read this book. Generally, it is just better to pick this book up. It is a supernatural tale I could read over and over again. Highly recommended!
Sam hasn't done much with his life. He dropped out of college, has yet to have a girlfriend, and works at a fast food joint. His life changes dramatically when he meets a man named Douglas, who informs him that both Sam and Douglas are necromancers, meaning magic is real and Sam has it. Sam thinks it is all joke until Douglas sends him his best friends head in a box, and still talking. Horrifically, Sam and his friends are thrown into a world where magic is real and dangerous. If Sam can't control his powers quickly, he will become one of the undead as well. This is one of those book gems where the characters are so authentic and quirky that you wish they were your friends. If you love sarcasm, you must read this book. If you love tales of the undead, you must read this book. If you love good books, you need to read this book. Generally, it is just better to pick this book up. It is a supernatural tale I could read over and over again. Highly recommended!
Infinity by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Nick is just trying to survive high school when his best friends turn into zombies and try to eat him. Saved by a mysterious warrior, NIck learns about the world of the Dark-Hunters, monster slayers who would risk everything to save humanity. Nick struggles to find balance as he is trying to survive not only algebra but a zombie apocalypse. This time, his sarcasm will not be enough to get him out of trouble. If he wants humanity to survive, he will have to harness his new powers. This sarcastic and action-packed monster fighting series is a perennial hit.
Nick is just trying to survive high school when his best friends turn into zombies and try to eat him. Saved by a mysterious warrior, NIck learns about the world of the Dark-Hunters, monster slayers who would risk everything to save humanity. Nick struggles to find balance as he is trying to survive not only algebra but a zombie apocalypse. This time, his sarcasm will not be enough to get him out of trouble. If he wants humanity to survive, he will have to harness his new powers. This sarcastic and action-packed monster fighting series is a perennial hit.
Interwtined by Gena Showalter
When Aden was born, four other souls took residence in his body. Each soul has a different gift. One can posses others, one can time travel, one can see the future, and last can raise the dead. With all these voices and unspeakable powers, his terrified parents thought Aden was crazy and gave him up. Aden has spent his entire life in and out of psychiatric hospitals, but at age 16, he is at a home for troubled boys and desperately trying for a normal life. When the beautiful girl from his dreams appears in his life, Aden and his souls realize life as they know is about to change forever. Zombies, vampires, and werewolves abound in this action-packed supernatural story.
When Aden was born, four other souls took residence in his body. Each soul has a different gift. One can posses others, one can time travel, one can see the future, and last can raise the dead. With all these voices and unspeakable powers, his terrified parents thought Aden was crazy and gave him up. Aden has spent his entire life in and out of psychiatric hospitals, but at age 16, he is at a home for troubled boys and desperately trying for a normal life. When the beautiful girl from his dreams appears in his life, Aden and his souls realize life as they know is about to change forever. Zombies, vampires, and werewolves abound in this action-packed supernatural story.
The Iron King by Julie Kagawa
When Meghan comes home to find her brother kidnapped, she is shocked to discover his kidnappers were not human. They were fairies. Meghan discovers that is the daughter of the fairy king, and her brother has been taken to pull her back into this sick and dangerous world. Meghan will do anything to save her brother, including facing an unspeakable evil, facing her true heritage, and learning to trust a fairy prince who tries to stay impervious to her charms. This is a romantic and action-packed fairy story.
When Meghan comes home to find her brother kidnapped, she is shocked to discover his kidnappers were not human. They were fairies. Meghan discovers that is the daughter of the fairy king, and her brother has been taken to pull her back into this sick and dangerous world. Meghan will do anything to save her brother, including facing an unspeakable evil, facing her true heritage, and learning to trust a fairy prince who tries to stay impervious to her charms. This is a romantic and action-packed fairy story.
Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare
In Clare's latest book, she takes us back to the tantalizing world of the shadow hunters, exploring the next generation of shadow hunters at the Los Angeles Institute. Readers met Emma Carstairs and Julian Blackthorn and his family when their families were killed in the Dark War in City of Heavenly Fire, Book 6 of the Mortal Instruments series. Now we meet them five years later. Emma is now a powerful shadow hunter desperate to discover who killed her parents five years ago. When a series of murders that mimic her parents' deaths start up in LA, she finally has a clue to unravel the mystery. Then a delegation from the Faerie Court arrives and promises to return Mark Blackthorn to the family if they can find the murderer and return him or her to their Court. Julian has been trying to get his brother back from the Wild Hunt since the war, and now, a changed Mark is back home. As they follow the clues, Emma and Julian's dreams may both be realized. Unfortunately, they have another dream forbidden to them that they can't seem to step away from. Emma and Julian are parabatai, which makes them stronger and closer to each other. The only caveat is that they cannot fall in love; it is forbidden by Shadow Hunter laws. Punishment for breaking this law is severe. Of course, laws rarely change a human heart. This review gives you the briefest glimpse into the plot and characters of the Dark Artifices series. Once again, the action is exciting, the mystery is wicked and willy, and the romance is swoon-worthy. It will be torture to wait for the next one. If you love the Shadow Hunters, Lady Midnight will bring you despair and delight.
In Clare's latest book, she takes us back to the tantalizing world of the shadow hunters, exploring the next generation of shadow hunters at the Los Angeles Institute. Readers met Emma Carstairs and Julian Blackthorn and his family when their families were killed in the Dark War in City of Heavenly Fire, Book 6 of the Mortal Instruments series. Now we meet them five years later. Emma is now a powerful shadow hunter desperate to discover who killed her parents five years ago. When a series of murders that mimic her parents' deaths start up in LA, she finally has a clue to unravel the mystery. Then a delegation from the Faerie Court arrives and promises to return Mark Blackthorn to the family if they can find the murderer and return him or her to their Court. Julian has been trying to get his brother back from the Wild Hunt since the war, and now, a changed Mark is back home. As they follow the clues, Emma and Julian's dreams may both be realized. Unfortunately, they have another dream forbidden to them that they can't seem to step away from. Emma and Julian are parabatai, which makes them stronger and closer to each other. The only caveat is that they cannot fall in love; it is forbidden by Shadow Hunter laws. Punishment for breaking this law is severe. Of course, laws rarely change a human heart. This review gives you the briefest glimpse into the plot and characters of the Dark Artifices series. Once again, the action is exciting, the mystery is wicked and willy, and the romance is swoon-worthy. It will be torture to wait for the next one. If you love the Shadow Hunters, Lady Midnight will bring you despair and delight.
Misfit by Jon Skovron
With a father who is an ex-priest and a mother who is a 5000 year old demon, it is hard for Jael Thompson to fit into high school. On her sixteenth birthday, she receives a gift from her mother that causes her powers to manifest. As a terrible demon begins hunting for her, Jael must learn how to control her powers if she is to survive both high school, romance, and the next few days. This is a fascinating stand-alone supernatural tale that uses ancient mythology.
With a father who is an ex-priest and a mother who is a 5000 year old demon, it is hard for Jael Thompson to fit into high school. On her sixteenth birthday, she receives a gift from her mother that causes her powers to manifest. As a terrible demon begins hunting for her, Jael must learn how to control her powers if she is to survive both high school, romance, and the next few days. This is a fascinating stand-alone supernatural tale that uses ancient mythology.
Personal Demons by Lisa DesRochers
The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater
Growing up in a family of clairvoyants, Blue Sargent is used to having the supernatural apart of her every day life. Since she has been little, her family predicted that when she met her true love, he would die if she kissed him. Therefore, Blue has resolved not to fall in love, especially not with a Raven Boy, a boy from the snooty boarding school in their town. Then she meets Gansey, Adam, Ronan and Noah, and the course of their lives change forever. As Blue is beguiled into helping them on their quest, secrets are unearthed, irrevocable choices are made, people are broken and hearts soar. LIke Blue, I couldn't stop myself from getting pulled into Gansey's world of magic, protection and possibilities. The book has a dreamlike quality, and the prose is lovely. The second book in the series, The Dream Thieves, is now available.
Growing up in a family of clairvoyants, Blue Sargent is used to having the supernatural apart of her every day life. Since she has been little, her family predicted that when she met her true love, he would die if she kissed him. Therefore, Blue has resolved not to fall in love, especially not with a Raven Boy, a boy from the snooty boarding school in their town. Then she meets Gansey, Adam, Ronan and Noah, and the course of their lives change forever. As Blue is beguiled into helping them on their quest, secrets are unearthed, irrevocable choices are made, people are broken and hearts soar. LIke Blue, I couldn't stop myself from getting pulled into Gansey's world of magic, protection and possibilities. The book has a dreamlike quality, and the prose is lovely. The second book in the series, The Dream Thieves, is now available.
Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
Imagine never being able to touch the people you love, to hold their hand or be engulfed in hug. It could destroy you. It could drive you insane. Juliette was born with a terrible gift. Her touch is fatal, and she has been in solitary confinement at an asylum for nearly a year. However, as the world outside is falling apart, the Reestablishment decides Juliette may be their greatest weapon. As they work to rehabilitate her, will she be their weapon or their greatest enemy?
Imagine never being able to touch the people you love, to hold their hand or be engulfed in hug. It could destroy you. It could drive you insane. Juliette was born with a terrible gift. Her touch is fatal, and she has been in solitary confinement at an asylum for nearly a year. However, as the world outside is falling apart, the Reestablishment decides Juliette may be their greatest weapon. As they work to rehabilitate her, will she be their weapon or their greatest enemy?
The Silver Kiss by Annette Curtis Klause
As Zoe struggles with her mother's losing battle against cancer, she meets beautiful and haunted boy named Simon. For 300 years, he has been searching for his mother's killer. Together, these two broken souls will fight to find a way out of their dark lives. This is one of the first vampire novels for teens, and it has a perfect mix of romance and suspense.
As Zoe struggles with her mother's losing battle against cancer, she meets beautiful and haunted boy named Simon. For 300 years, he has been searching for his mother's killer. Together, these two broken souls will fight to find a way out of their dark lives. This is one of the first vampire novels for teens, and it has a perfect mix of romance and suspense.
Some Girls Bite by Chloe Neill
Merit lives in a world where Chicago's vampires decided to announce to the world that they were real, and now they are celebrities. Some people worship them, and others want them dead. Vampires across the globe are angry at them for coming "out of the closet" without their consent. When she is attacked by a rogue vampire, she is "saved" by Ethan Sullivan, head of one of the most mysterious vampire houses. Merit is not certain she wants to be undead, with all its rules, politics, thirst for human blood, and annoyingly gorgeous and powerful lord and master. With Merit's sarcastic humor, quirky friends, and a special set of vampire powers, she is sure to rock the vampire world. A vampire story with mystery, horror, steamy romance, sarcastic humor, and quirky characters, this is one of my favorite vampire series.
Merit lives in a world where Chicago's vampires decided to announce to the world that they were real, and now they are celebrities. Some people worship them, and others want them dead. Vampires across the globe are angry at them for coming "out of the closet" without their consent. When she is attacked by a rogue vampire, she is "saved" by Ethan Sullivan, head of one of the most mysterious vampire houses. Merit is not certain she wants to be undead, with all its rules, politics, thirst for human blood, and annoyingly gorgeous and powerful lord and master. With Merit's sarcastic humor, quirky friends, and a special set of vampire powers, she is sure to rock the vampire world. A vampire story with mystery, horror, steamy romance, sarcastic humor, and quirky characters, this is one of my favorite vampire series.
Strange Angels by Lilli St. Crow
Dru has spent her life traveling from town to town with her father, a man whose missions was to hunt down vampires and other creatures that go bump in the night. Dru just never thought her dad would be one of the creatures or that she would have to be the one to put him down. Now Dru is out for vengeance. Even though she thought she would be alone, she suddenly finds two boys devoted to helping her quest to destroy the creature who took out her father. However, the deeper she digs into her father's past, the more she realizes that she may be central to everything. She will need to realize her true powers if she can hope for success. This sarcastic supernatural series has fantastic characters, shocking plot twists, heart-pounding romance and bloody battles. I read every book in this series. Highly recommended!
Dru has spent her life traveling from town to town with her father, a man whose missions was to hunt down vampires and other creatures that go bump in the night. Dru just never thought her dad would be one of the creatures or that she would have to be the one to put him down. Now Dru is out for vengeance. Even though she thought she would be alone, she suddenly finds two boys devoted to helping her quest to destroy the creature who took out her father. However, the deeper she digs into her father's past, the more she realizes that she may be central to everything. She will need to realize her true powers if she can hope for success. This sarcastic supernatural series has fantastic characters, shocking plot twists, heart-pounding romance and bloody battles. I read every book in this series. Highly recommended!
Tithe by Holly Black
Stories tell of children who are stolen by fairies and how a replacement fairy child is sent to the human world in its place. After a terrible attack, Kaye learns she is one of these fairy children. To protect those she loves, she will have to go back to a warring world that will do its best to destroy her.
Stories tell of children who are stolen by fairies and how a replacement fairy child is sent to the human world in its place. After a terrible attack, Kaye learns she is one of these fairy children. To protect those she loves, she will have to go back to a warring world that will do its best to destroy her.
Twilight by Stephenie Meyers
I don't care about the haters. I still love this vampire romance where a girl who never fit in finds her match in glittering, dangerous vampire. The first book is complete book candy, and if you haven't read it yet, you need to.
I don't care about the haters. I still love this vampire romance where a girl who never fit in finds her match in glittering, dangerous vampire. The first book is complete book candy, and if you haven't read it yet, you need to.
Undertow by Michael BuckleyLyric's world was on the beach the day the sea spit out the Alpha, a race of undersea Warriors. With 30,000 of them living as refugees on Coney Island, society's awe of these creatures from myth has turned to fear and hatred. However, the government has decided that it is time to integrate the Alpha, starting at Lyric's high school, and Lyric has been forced by her principal to befriend the Alpha prince. At first, their meetings terrify her, but as she gets to know him, she becomes fascinated by him and his world. However, Lyric's family's secrets and the Alpha's secret enemies will threaten everything she holds dear. The world of Atlantis comes to life on the beaches of Coney Island on this original and enthralling tale by Michael Buckley. Lyric and her friends and family will draw you in and take hold of your heart, and her dangerous love for the Alpha prince will make readers swoon. This book is the perfect recipe of great characters, original plot, and great writing. I highly recommend it!
Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr
Aislinn has lived her life by three rules. #3 Don't stare at invisible fairies. #2 Don't speak to invisible fairies. #1 Don't attract the attention of invisible fairies. Aislinn has always know fairies exist, and she has so far eluded their notice due to the rules her family have entrenched in her. However, Keenan, the Summer King, has spent centuries looking for the girl meant to be his Queen, and he is determined that Aislinn become his bride. Without her, summer will die. As the effects of their relationship span both their worlds, Aislinn will have to create a new set of rules if she wants to take control of ever-expanding destiny. This is one of the best fairy romance series filled with terrible choices, dark secrets, and eternal romance. Highly recommended!
Aislinn has lived her life by three rules. #3 Don't stare at invisible fairies. #2 Don't speak to invisible fairies. #1 Don't attract the attention of invisible fairies. Aislinn has always know fairies exist, and she has so far eluded their notice due to the rules her family have entrenched in her. However, Keenan, the Summer King, has spent centuries looking for the girl meant to be his Queen, and he is determined that Aislinn become his bride. Without her, summer will die. As the effects of their relationship span both their worlds, Aislinn will have to create a new set of rules if she wants to take control of ever-expanding destiny. This is one of the best fairy romance series filled with terrible choices, dark secrets, and eternal romance. Highly recommended!