Audio Review ~ The Gift ~ Dannika Dark #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

The Gift by Dannika Dark
Mageri Series #5.5
Narrated by: Nicole Poole
Release Date: December 6, 2016
Genre: Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Despite a powerful snowstorm that has shut down the city, Silver and the Mageri crew are preparing to spend a peaceful holiday at home, surrounded by family, food, and merriment. But the party comes to an abrupt end when Logan receives an unexpected call, one that forces him to make a life-changing decision that could affect his relationship with Silver forever. Can they find the courage to weather the storm? Lives are at risk in this compelling and heartwarming story about the remarkable journey of love.

The Gift was, well a gift. :) It's been about three years since the end of Shine and DDark gives us a little glimpse of where all the characters are at this point in time.

It's Christmas and Silver is hosting everyone for dinner. This in itself was entertaining since she's never been all that handy in the kitchen. Over the course of the days of preparation for the event as well as the actual celebrating of Christmas we learn how life has been impacted by the events in Shine and how Silver, Logan, Justus, Adam, Finn - well, the whole gang - has adjusted and grown in their new lives. 

There was no pulse-pounding action but DDark sure delivers a little suspense by having us wonder if everyone will end up getting what they're wanting and needing. It was a delight to see the dynamics between everyone as well as witnessing how their lives have evolved. And, of course, being a part of wishes being granted made it that much more special. DDark managed to wring a few tears from me. The Gift was simply a sweet read...er, listen. 

Nicole Poole, as always, did a tremendous job with the narrating. She kept the story flowing and her voices distinct and consistent. She brings these stories to life!

#COYER Review ~ Shine ~ Dannika Dark #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

Shine by Dannika Dark
Mageri Series #5
Release Date: December 20, 2013
Genre: Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
Source: Purchased paperback
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
In the short span of a year, Silver has gone from becoming a Mage to discovering the truth about her unique genetics. Logan Cross went from her mortal enemy to her immortal lover, but a threat is fast approaching like an inevitable storm. Attacks are underway against the Mageri and one man is behind it - an elusive foe who is an unstoppable force. Nero is not Silver's only concern as someone close to her is arrested for treason. In the midst of chaos, Silver discovers she cannot protect everyone from the wrath of fate, including her own Ghuardian.

Justus finally opens his heart, but an unexpected turn of events could darken his soul forever. Secrets are revealed that will leave you reeling from one twist after the next. Would you sacrifice everything for love?

Destiny has set sail and once she alters her course, no one's life will ever be the same in this explosive conclusion to the Mageri Series.

I'm not sure I could have imagined a better ending for this series than Shine. Dark did an excellent job of driving us to where she wanted us, tying up some loose ends, but also leaving things in a way where we can dream up the direction certain things and certain characters go from here. And it was ALL worth the ride.

As I've said in most, if not all, my reviews for this series, I admire how Dark takes on certain relevant topics and explores them as they apply to the world of Breed. Things came to a head in Shine as an enemy of Silver pitted Breed against one another using said topics. The way things went down might not have been as exciting if not for the circumstances under which they happened and the revelations brought forth. However, it all combined for quite a bit of nail-biting and explosive excitement.

The way in which Dark wrapped up things for Silver and Logan, Adam, Justus and Page, Simon, Christian, and even Novis was very satisfying as well. That she was able to develop such a large cast of characters so well is a feat considering they are all different Breed and therefore it wasn't their Breed that brought them all together but their humanity. Dark had several themes running throughout the seires - humanity, doing the right thing, selflessness, fate, sacrifice - and one of the most gratifying elements of the series has been watching Silver mature and seeing how she and those close and important to her were affected by her and her beliefs...they all impacted each others' lives for the better.

I'm happy and a little sad to have finished the series. I know I have a novella and a companion novel yet to read and I will do that soon. I'm also very eager to start the Crossbreed series which is set in this same world. It'll be interesting to see where Dark takes things from here.

If you haven't met Silver and her friends, I highly recommend you do and SOON! :)

Review ~ Gravity ~ Dannika Dark #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

Gravity by Dannika Dark
Mageri Series #4
Release Date: June 12, 2013
Genre: Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
Source: Purchased paperback
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
When a choice is made, it will forever alter the course of our destiny. It cannot be undone, for fate is a river changing direction and carving away the bed of our hearts like everlasting fractures.

A turbulent past has left Silver a broken woman, but she is learning to trust again through Logan Cross, a Chitah who has convinced her that a dangerous man can change. Their bond will be put to the ultimate test when an old nemesis reappears and flips her world upside down. Will Logan be able to tame the animal within, or will he succumb to his impulsive nature?

The ongoing investigation into Breed experiments unveils a shocking secret about Silver's past. Standing at a fork in the road, Silver is forced to make a decision. Each comes with a consequence, and there is no turning back.

"My eyes may not know all of you, but my heart does. I loved you before I was born, and I will love you long after I pass from this earth."

Gravity contains romance, passion, twists, and nail-biting drama.

Hooboy! This is getting interesting!

First, I want to reiterate how much I admire Dark for taking on topics like equality for women and racism and bigotry, using the context of the Breed. It's well done and an added complexity to the story.

In Gravity - which is an excellent title considering how this installment explores the gravity of decision making where the characters are concerned - we see Silver blossoming into her new life and as a person of note. There are revelations made about who and what she is and she makes tough decisions - decisions that enable her to protect the ones she loves though they'll never know about it. Gravity also allows us to become better acquainted with Justus. He's an honorable man, which was demonstrated when he took Silver in as his Learner. But we get to see a completely different side of him here - a more tender side. And it was incredible.

Gravity trades in some of the white-knuckle action for gut-wrenching emotion. I was shredded over some of the things that happened here. Logan, though, he ensured my love and loyalty towards him despite one thing he did. He proved his worthiness - well he and Silver proved their worthiness of each other.

As with all the books in this series, the supporting cast is stellar and invaluable. Spending time with them all is a treat. And although I hate to see the series end, I'm also anxious to see how everything shakes out.

That's What HE Said #78 ~ Thirsty Thursday & Hungry Hearts #72 ~ Shine ~ Dannika Dark

That's What He Said is a weekly meme hosted by the lovely ladies @Chapter Break. Here's the deal: every Thursday, post a line from your book boyfriend to his heroine. Keep in mind, these are direct quotes from dialog in the books. The quote doesn't have to be romantic - just something our hunky hero said to his lucky lady. Be sure to link up over at Chapter Break as well.

Thirsty Thursday & Hungry Hearts is a weekly meme hosted by my blogger wife, Lexxie, @(un)Conventional Bookviews. It's a way to highlight a book using quotes that revolve around food or drinks. Every Thursday, post a line or two...or heck, a whole paragraph, that spoke to you in some way using food or drinks. *wink* 

My pick this week for That's What He Said AND Thirsty Thursday & Hungry Hearts is from:

Shine by Dannika Dark

I cannot explain to you how much I adore Logan Cross. He's a total alpha male and so absolutely far from being an alpha-hole. If you haven't met him, you *MUST* rectify this immediately. Then come tell me how much you love him. *big grin*

***

"I will never let you go if you keep me in your heart, Little Raven. I will never leave you as long as you hear my voice whispering in your ear. No one lives forever. It's not what you take from this life--it's what you give. When it's my time--whenever that may be--I want to know that I left you with hope. You gave me that gift on the night we met, when I watched hum a song in the kitchen while heating up enchiladas for a stranger at your table. Pass it on someday to someone who needs it more than you."

Favorites of 2017 ~ Couples

I enjoyed doing a "look back at the year" in 2016 so I figured it'd once again be fun to bring 2017 to a close by listing some of favorites. I hope you enjoy reading about some of my favorites and I'd be happy to hear about any of yours!

*~*Couples*~*

• Eva and Gideon - watching them fall for one another and learn to be strong enough in themselves to build a relationship strong enough to last was a wonder.
• Silver and Logan - I've so enjoyed watching as Logan courts Silver. They're each growing so much even while enduring so much. It's been a challenge but it's great to see them together.
• Greer, Embry, and Ash - okay, I realize it's a trio rather than a couple but still...they were a pleasure to get to know and to watch change, mature, and fall in love.
• Nora and Soren - this couple is making the list two years in a row! Their's is an unconventional relationship if ever there was one and yet I still adore them
• Charles and Anna - their bond keeps getting stronger and stronger 
• Will and Layken - I really enjoyed reliving all their best and worst memories along with them. These two are just meant to be together!
• Tate and Logan - their love is swoon-worthy, y'all!
• Lily and Lo - these two broke my heart and put it back together again. They're each so broken and yet still perfect together. No, they don't fix each other - their love just makes them want to be better for the other. *sigh*
• Violet and Jennings - this couple made me laugh out loud all the while rooting for them to end up together!
• Jamie and Claire - I felt so much for these two! They're amazing individuals and as a couple? I'm not sure I've ever rooted for an historical couple more.
• Tabby and Shy, Lanie and Hopper, Joker and Carissa, High and Millie, Brock and Tessa, Hawk and Gwen, Tack and Tyra, and Mara and Mitch (I know it's cheating, right?)

Can you guess which books these couples starred in?

Favorites of 2017 ~ Worlds/Settings

I enjoyed doing a "look back at the year" in 2016 so I figured it'd once again be fun to bring 2017 to a close by listing some of favorites. I hope you enjoy reading about some of my favorites and I'd be happy to hear about any of yours!

*~*Worlds/Settings*~*

• Cognito - I'm finishing up the year in Cognito. I've enjoyed spending time there with Silver and all her friends. And Dannika Dark does a fine job of creating the "look and feel" of snowy, cold weather.
• Denver, Colorado - the setting for Kristen Ashley's Chaos series and Dream Man series is brought to life in the stories...and I enjoyed spending time here, so near home, all over again.
• Denton, Texas - this is where the Thieves series is set and it's perfect! Having lived in North Texas for 4 years prior to moving to Colorado, Blake nails the feel.
• Chicago, Illinois - I've spent quite a bit of time in Chicago this year - mostly fictionally but also in real life. Helena Hunting's Clipped Wings series is set here and I liked how she brought to life the area around Northwestern to life. I also spent time in Chicago with Ella Frank's Temptation series and Jennifer Dawson's Undone series.
• West Texas (Amarillo, Dumas, Ernest) - Having spent about half my life, before getting married, in West Texas, I quite enjoyed spending time there with the characters of Kari Lynn Dell's Texas Rodeo series.
• New York City - I binged on Sylvia Day's Crossfire series in November and December, and she brought to life the hustle and bustle of the city through Eva's eyes. Having visited Manhattan before, it was fun reminiscing. Lara Adrian's For 100 Days and For 100 Nights is also set in NYC. She brought an entirely different scene to life in the trilogy.
• Rome - Rome is not a location I'd ever hoped to visit...until I read J.T. Geissinger's Edge of Oblivion. Her description of the city as well as the underground city, the historical buildings and ruins, the art, the food, the mythology...yeah, Rome went on my bucket list.
• Scotland - although I like to think I'd have liked to live during the time of Highlanders - and maybe I would - Gabaldon created a Scotland the felt very realistic in it's harsh beauty...very realistic. 

That's What HE Said #76 ~ Impulse ~ Dannika Dark

That's What He Said is a weekly meme hosted by the lovely ladies @Chapter Break. Here's the deal: every Thursday, post a line from your book boyfriend to his heroine. Keep in mind, these are direct quotes from dialog in the books. The quote doesn't have to be romantic - just something our hunky hero said to his lucky lady. Be sure to link up over at Chapter Break as well.

My pick this week for That's What He Said is from:

Impulse by Dannika Dark

Earlier this week I did some swooning over Logan Cross so I thought I'd share a little glimpse of why he's so swoon-worthy. Enjoy! *winks*

***

"I was made to protect you, female. I've claimed you, whether you accept it or not, and it's an honor that I take very seriously. If any male lays an unwanted finger on you, I will break it. If you hunger, I will feed you. If you're cold, then I will warm you with my body. If you're taken from me, then I'll track you. Never doubt my devotion to you." He gripped my head firmly. "I once gave a woman my heart, because that's all I had to give. But you, Silver, you're the pulse that keeps me alive. I was a soft man once, but no more. I don't know if you can accept the man that I've become, because all I have to offer you is my life..."

#OctobeRecFest Review #5 ~ Impulse ~ Dannika Dark #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

Impulse by Dannika Dark
Mageri Series #3
Release Date: March 20, 2013
Genre: Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
Source: Puchased paperback
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #OctobeRecFest, #ShelfLove
Recommended by: Lexxie @unConventional Bookviews and Lorna @RabidReads among others
Goodreads
 Synopsis
Almost one year ago, a Mage attacked Silver and changed the course of her destiny.
Immortals exist, and now she is one of them.

Within the dark and supernatural city of Cognito, Silver is living under the watchful eye of her Ghuardian and dating her mortal enemy. Neither man can protect her from a dark secret, one buried within the contents of a box. As rival factions struggle to gain control, she finds herself in the middle of a centuries-old feud that threatens to drive a wedge between her and Logan Cross, the man who intends to seduce her.

In an explosive turn of events, one life is saved and another is forever altered. Can Silver trust those around her, or are they hiding a dark secret of their own?

Impulse was an exciting read. The world Ms. Dark has created around her characters is complex with the different Breed and the politics surrounding them. I intend to finish this series by year's end.

Highlights

• Characters
  Ms. Dark is adept at developing strong characters and even though the story revolves around Silver, the entire cast is heavily involved and I feel like I know them and am invested in them equally. In Impulse, I got more of Justus' history and it was illuminating. More was also revealed about Silver - her history, childhood, etc., and it went towards explaining much about her personality. I liked getting this deeper look into her psyche and I'm keen to see where Ms. Dark is going to take some of the information. There were also some revelations about Logan and Simon which I appreciated...especially Logan because he's.... *sigh*
• Politics among Breed
  I find it extremely interesting that politics/tensions among Breed so closely parallel those in our own society. This is an element in Ms. Dark's writing I enjoy and admire because it's so thought-provoking. In Impulse, more was revealed about the intrigue surrounding the Mageri and I'm beginning to see where some things might be going. I also got to see the social structure within the Chitah, thanks to Logan and his brothers, and that was fascinating as well.

Overall, Impulse was kinda like unwrapping a present. There was something exciting or stunning every time I peeled back a layer. I learned so much about the characters and the world right alongside Silver. And I'm so curious to see where everyone goes from here. Ms. Dark really knows how to deliver complex characters, great plot, and a strong secondary cast which, when combined, makes for some fantastic reading.

Thirsty Thursday & Hungry Hearts #68 ~ Impulse ~ Dannika Dark

This week's snippet is from Impulse by Dannika Dark. Honestly, it stuck out to me for two reasons: 1) the importance and emotion of Logan feeding, or in this case providing a beverage to, Silver, and 2) my very fond childhood memories of this particular beverage thanks to my grandma. *grins* The rest of the snippet, between Simon, Silver, and Logan, just made me giggle, so I had to share. *winks* 

***

"Why only one nipple ring?"
Simon glanced down and grumbled. "Hurt like a bugger; told the blighter I changed my mind." He flicked it with his pinky finger. "I'm too bleeding irritated about the whole affair to take it out." 
"You faced a firing squad, and yet you weep like a baby over a needle? I'm revoking your man card." 
"Let's pierce your nipples and see how much you warm up to the idea."
"I'll agree to that, " Logan said, setting a glass of chocolate milk in front of me. He swept my hair back and lowered his voice. "I'll be happy to assist with any healing you'll need."

4th Annual OctobeRec Fest ~ A Month of Recommendations! #OctobeRecFest

Welcome to my Fourth Annual OctobeRec Fest. 

FOURTH, y'all! I can't believe I've been doing this for four years now. Anyway, I started this as a nod to Oktoberfest and I'm once again spending a month dedicated to reading the many, many books on my ereaders and bookshelves thanks to you, my blogging friends. (and a few beers will probably be added into the mix! ;) This year, I'm switching it up just a tad. I'll be reading books from series that I started thanks to y'all and in doing so, I'm showing my digital and physical shelves love as well as moving towards finishing up those series! 

Here are a few of the books I'm hoping to get to this month. I'm sure you'll recognize your recommendations but I'll try to make sure to call you out in my reviews. ;)



Thank you all so much for sharing book love! And hopefully I can get a few of you interested in some new books to try. 

My TBR List ~ September ~ Polling is Open!

My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by Michelle @Because Reading. I think it's a fabulous idea because it gets y'all in the game and it helps me knock off some of the many, many books on my TBR list. You're more than welcome to join in the fun! I've included the basic rules below but you can click on the graphic above to hop over to Michelle's site where you can find all the details. 

Here's how it works:
On the first Saturday of each month, I will make a post with three books from my TBR List (these books can be already on your ereader or bookshelf OR books you might want to purchase) and add your link on the linky that will be provided on Michelle's post. Y'ALL will help me choose which book I will read next. The following Saturday, I will announce which book won. Then the last Saturday of the month, I'll post my review.

Fun, right?!?

***

I'm continuing my quest, and working at one of my Bookish Resolutions to catch up on series (since I'm behind in 148 series) I'm once again having y'all decide which series I'm going to work at catching up on this month! :D

FYI, this will be my theme all year. And since I'm letting random.org choose from the list of series I'm behind in, you might see books show up more than once. ;)


Your Choices Are:


Use
Songs of Perdition #2

Synopsis
In the end, did I stab him to be free of him? And free to what? Fuck? Snort? Party? Or free to be normal?

"It was a very interesting situation, up there on Maundy," Elliott said.

"Nothing like it in the world. It's a safe place for people like me."

"People like you? Can you be more specific?" He ran his finger on the edge of his blotter, and a chill went up my inner thighs.

"People like me means, I don't know. Fuckers. We fuck because it's what we do. Bus drivers drive. Accountants account. Policemen police. I'm a fucker. I fuck."



The Departed
The FBI Psychics #2

Synopsis
A LIFELONG OBSESSION

FBI Special Agent Taylor Jones has made it his mission to save those in harm's way by any means necessary-including employing psychic agents like Desiree "Dez" Lincoln, who can communicate with the disembodied spirits of the dead. Taylor is haunted by his own ghost, his kid sister, gone missing at age six. For a quarter of a century he has been tortured by her loss and the mystery of her disappearance.

A NIGHT'S INDISCRETION

When Dez is seriously wounded, Taylor can no longer hide his feelings for her. Getting involved could spell disaster for both of them-not to mention those who rely on them for help-but once Dez lays her hands on him, he can't resist the fierce attraction. But after giving in to his desires, Taylor pulls back, and Dez strikes out on her own.

AN INESCAPABLE PASSION

Responding to the call of another anguished spirit, Dez is led to Taylor's old hometown. As the two are forced to come together to save a girl in peril, Dez may be able to help Taylor finally find the answers he's been looking for...




Impulse
Mageri #3

Synopsis
"You are the only female I desire, the only water that will quench my thirst, the only sun that will warm my skin, the only lips that were made for mine."

Almost a year ago, a Mage attacked Silver and changed the course of her destiny. Immortals exist, and now she is one of them.

Within the dark and supernatural city of Cognito, Silver is living under the watchful eye of her Ghuardian and dating her mortal enemy. Neither man can protect her from a dark secret, one buried within the contents of a box. As rival factions struggle to gain control, she finds herself in the middle of a centuries-old feud that threatens to drive a wedge between her and Logan Cross, the man who intends to seduce her.

In an explosive turn of events, one life is saved and another is forever altered. Can Silver trust those around her, or are they hiding a dark secret of their own?



Okay, now vote! And thanks! :D


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Audio Review ~ One Second ~ Dannika Dark

One Second by Dannika Dark
Seven #7
Narrated by: Nicole Poole
Release Date: April 26, 2016
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
Lexi has faced personal struggles, but nothing has prepared her for the most perilous battle of her life. Shifters are on the brink of war as Northerners target Colorado in an attempt to infiltrate the borders. Texas winds up on the hit list, and the Weston pack prepares to fight for their land...and for their lives.

Austin's courage is put to the test when rogues want to seize his land and slaughter his pack. But that's not all he's facing as two shocking revelations turn their lives upside down. His love for Lexi is unwavering, but their future is uncertain.

Will the local packs set aside differences to fight together, or will this be the end of peace among Shifters?

Stand witness to the epic conclusion of the Seven series.

One Second was the epic ending I was anticipating. I don't think Dark could have done any better with ending this series. I've loved every installment and to have this final one focus on the couple it all started with was perfect.

Lexi and Austin are once again the focus, and I was thrilled. Their love has only grown stronger as has their pack. Facing normal obstacles - growing their pack businesses and their family - would be enough for any alpha couple. Facing a possible war - what they've been worrying about for years - might push them over the edge.

Besides having a story revolving around Lexi and Austin, Dark delivered on elements I adore in this series:

• suspense so nerve-wracking I hated not being able to listen constantly
• pack dynamics via all the Cole brothers, their families, pack members as well as other Shifter packs interacting
• an exciting story
• parallels between Shifter society, other Breed, etc., and society around the world today. I believe I've said before that I appreciate Dark drawing comparisons between how Shifters, etc., were treated historically and currently to how prejudice and bigotry affect our society.

Nicole Poole once again delighted me with her narration. Her distinct character voices and ability to keep the pacing perfect as well as convey every emotion has made her one of my favorite narrators.

One Second was everything I was hoping it'd be and more. Dark is absolutely one of my favorite authors and I look forward to more from this world.

Audio Review ~ Two Minutes ~ Dannika Dark

Two Minutes by Dannika Dark
Seven Series #6
Narrated by: Nicole Poole
Release Date: April 25, 2015
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy
Source: Audible
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Goodreads

Synopsis
After years of living abroad, Maizy returns home to the only family she's ever know--a pack of wolves. When she confronts her childhood watchdog to see where they stand, his resentment leaves her uncertain about where she really belongs.

Behind Denver's charming smile is a tragic past--one that's made his wolf savage and unpredictable. Only Maizy has been able to tame that darkness, and when they're reunited after many years apart, he no longer sees a child he once protected. She's captivating and intelligent--a woman with the world at her fingertips and two suitors offering more than he ever could.

Torn between two worlds, Maizy must choose how her fairy tale ends. Tragedy, murder, passion, and imprisonment all collide with a heart-stopping twist.

Destiny will find you.

Two Minutes was the story I'd had my fingers crossed for since Seven Years. When Denny became Maizy's watchdog, it forged a bond between them that seemed to intensify as Maizy aged. The way they were together, I'd always felt they were soulmates.

Two Minutes sees Maizy returning home to the Westin pack after being away to school and travel. The synopsis says Maizy was unsure of where she belonged but I thought it was more a case of knowing what she wanted but being unsure if she could have it. Things between she and Denver are strained since he stopped visiting her when the pack did and made sure to stay away when she visited. Denny had his reasons and it broke my heart for him. But he doesn't know Maizy's secret - one she only learned about recently. And it's a secret that completely changes the game.

Another barrier for Maizy and Denny to overcome is one very handsome, very powerful Alpha, Prince. Prince came into the Westin pack's life during the trouble they faced with Lexie and Maizy's dad in Seven Years. Prince took a shine to Maizy then and he's stayed involved. However, Prince is aware of Maizy's secret and is determined to woo her away from Denver. It is all almost for naught when Denver is arrested and could possibly be sentenced to death for his crime.

Dark once again dazzled me with her incredible cast of characters. I feel I know them all so well at this point, they're like friends. And I could probably identify them all by their mannerisms and catch phrases since she makes them so distinct. There was also plenty of tension and suspense in Two Minutes with dealing with the Council and the Higher Authority, the mess with another pack, and the push and pull between Maizy and Denny. I was enthralled by the story and listened as often as I could.

Nicole Poole is an excellent narrator and I continue to be impressed with her ability to keep the characters' voices separate and distinct, as Dark created them.

I'm thrilled to have binged on this series in audio. My only regret is that the series is almost done!

Audio Review ~ Charming ~ Dannika Dark

Charming by Dannika Dark
Seven Series # 6.5
Narrated by: Nicole Poole
Release Date: December 8, 2015
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance
Source: Audible credit
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
After seven hundred years, Prince has acquired everything a Packmaster could desire. But when he meets the enchanting Nadia Kozlov, he realized that there's one thing he doesn't have: answers. Princes owes his life to a man he hasn't seen in centuries, and Nadia holds the key to his whereabouts, because that man is her father. Destinies collide when Nadia's sister shows up unexpectedly. Katarina is a skilled bounty hunter, hot on the trail of a nefarious outlaw who turns out to be Prince's old nemesis. Prince teams up with Nadia's sister to track down the Mage, but the real game of cat and mouse is already underway as sparks fly between Prince and the cunning bounty hunter. The only trouble is, Nadia wants him too.

Charming - a word I'd never considered in conjunction with Prince, the serious, rigid, disciplined Packmaster. I was curious about the title and I was absolutely pleased with how Ms. Dark worked that word into the story.

Charming is a story I was happy to get. While Prince isn't necessarily my favorite character in the Seven series, he does have my respect. He's disciplined in his leadership, but a fair, if arrogant, man. Getting his backstory, learning his history, answered so many questions about him. I appreciated those answers. Of course, getting those answers was precipitated by Prince meeting Nadia and Katarina Kozlov - the daughters of a man with an important role in Prince's past. Kat's appearance is brought about due to her job and her search for her father - and a Mage, who also played a pivotal rile in Prince's life.

Despite there being some tension and suspense, coupled with some action, Charming might be the lightest story in this series. This is mostly due to Kat and her feisty personality. She has no filter and the things that come out of her mouth had me, and Prince, laughing! I like how Charming played out but what I enjoyed the most - the thing that had me snickering often , is the fact that Prince falls for a woman so unlike him - so opposite of what he thought he'd been looking for. And watching that made for a lot of fun.

Nicole Poole, as usual, impressed me with her narration. Her delivery kept the packing perfect and her voices and accents for both men and women were spot on.

I'm eager to see how this series winds up but at the same time, I hate to see it end.

My TBR List ~ January ~ Let's Vote

My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by Michelle @Because Reading. I think it's a fabulous idea because it gets y'all in the game and it helps me knock off some of the many, many books on my TBR list. You're more than welcome to join in the fun! I've included the basic rules below but you can click on the graphic above to hop over to Michelle's site where you can find all the details. 

Here's how it works:
On the first Saturday of each month, I will make a post with three books from my TBR List (these books can be already on your ereader or bookshelf OR books you might want to purchase) and add your link on the linky that will be provided on Michelle's post. Y'ALL will help me choose which book I will read next. The following Saturday, I will announce which book won. Then the last Saturday of the month, I'll post my review.

Fun, right?!?

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To kick off 2016, I'm letting y'all pick my next audio book! 

Your Choices Are:

Wicked Deeds on a Winter's Night
Immortals After Dark #4

Synopsis
Her breathless kiss haunts him...
Bowen MacRieve of the Lykae clan was nearly destroyed when he lost the one woman meant for him. The ruthless warrior grew even colder, never taking another to his bed--until a smoldering encounter with his enemy, Mariketa the Awaited, reawakens his darkest desires. When sinister forces unite against her, the Highlander finds himself using all his strength and skill to keep her alive.

His slow, hot touch is irresistible...
Temporarily stripped of her powers, Mari is forced to take refuge with her sworn adversary. It's rumored that no one can tempt Bowen's hardened heart, but soon passion burns between them. Though a future together is impossible, she fears he has no intention of letting her go.

No deed is too wicked for her seduction...
If they defeat the evil that surrounds them, can Mari deny Bowen when he demands her body and soul--or will she risk everything for her fierce protector?




Charming
Seven Series #6.5

Synopsis
After seven hundred years, Prince has acquired everything a Packmaster could desire. But when he meets the enchanting Nadia Kozlov, he realizes that there's one thing he doesn't have: answers. Prince owes his life to a man he hasn't seen in centuries, and Nadia holds the key to his whereabouts, because that man is her father. Destinies collide when Nadia's sister shows up unexpectedly. Katarina is a skilled bounty hunter, hot on the trail of a nefarious outlaw who turns out to be Prince's old nemesis. Prince teams up with Nadia's sister to track down the Mage, but the real game of cat and mouse is already underway as sparks fly between Prince and the cunning bounty hunter. The only trouble is, Nadia wants him too.




Wrong Number, Right Guy
The Bourbon Street Boys #1

Synopsis
When a mysterious text message summons May Wexler to a biker bar in downtown New Orleans, she knows something is very wrong. Her sister has sent out an SOS, but when May gets there, she's nowhere to be found and May is the one in trouble--she's wearing pink espadrilles, she's got a Chihuahua in her purse, and she's in the middle of a shootout.

After tall, muscular Ozzie comes to her rescue, May has no choice to but follow him to safety. At the headquarters of his private security firm, the Bourbon Street Boys, she finds a refuge for the night--and the offer of a job. But it's not long before a gun-toting stalker isn't the only complication in May's life: the more time she spends with Ozzie, the less she can deny that they've got some serious chemistry. A wrong number got her into this mess...Will it also get her the right guy?



Okay, now vote! And thanks! :D

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#TravelingtoTerminus Review ~ Twist ~ Dannika Dark

Twist by Dannika Dark
Mageri #2
Release Date: February 26, 2012
Genre: Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
Source: Purchased paperback
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Goodreads

Synopsis
Months after moving to the mysterious city of Cognito, Silver is developing her gifts as a Marge and learning how to live under new laws. She is forced to give up her old life and live in secret among the humans. There is finally hope of leading an ordinary life...

Until Logan Cross walks into it.

Their chance meeting leads her close to discovering the identity of the nameless Mage who once stole her light and discovered the unique power she possesses. That knowledge poses an unimaginable threat to Silver, fueling the search to find out who he is before he finds her.

Lives are at stake. Truths are revealed. And an unexpected passion ignites.

"An outspoken woman makes the world a livable place. You have fire in you, and I would never put that out."

Oh, Ms. Dark! How I love your stories! Twist is such an amazing blend of action, suspense, an introduction to different Breed, and *sigh* romance, that I had to force myself to put the book down and do things that needed doing. ;)

Silver's life has settled down a bit now that the threat Samil posed has been neutralized. But Justus and Simon are still on the trail of 'the benefactor', and when Silver decides to help, things don't stay calm for long. Then there is the appearance of Logan Cross and he really heats things up.

Ms. Dark did a phenomenal job at weaving in new characters, new plot threads, and a whole lot of action into the overarching plot. It was exciting learning more about Breed and the Breed world - their customs and laws. And I like that Ms. Dark seems to be making a social statement about acceptance and tolerance - something I'm eager to see developed further as the series progresses.

Ms. Dark also deftly creates rich and complex characters. Silver is a kickass heroine whom I adore. She's flawed but has a heart of gold and a sassy mouth. Justus is the perfect mentor for Silver and I know he'd do anything for her. I do hope we get more insight into his aversion to any kindness shown to him from those he cares for. Simon keeps me in stitches but I know there's deeper layers to him as well and although he's not a central character, I hope to dig a little deeper with him as well. Adam will always hold a special place in my heart for having taken dare of Silver when she was most vulnerable. He irritated me at times but I understood the intentions behind his actions...usually. I'm grateful that he's still in Silver's life. And that brings me to Logan... Although the circumstances of their meeting were dubious, I agree with Silver in that he's a man of worth. I'd never have guessed I was such a sucker for chivalry but Logan proved just that. He stood by, behind, and in front of Silver when warranted, and he won me over. 

The action in Twist put Silver and company closer to capturing 'the benefactor' but there were setbacks. It all involved some white-knuckling and I was happy that everyone survived. I'm eager to see 'the benefactor' get his due but appreciated Justus' advice to Silver not to let vengeance rule your life. That's a good lesson.

I'm anxious to continue with Silver as she learns more life lessons in her new world as a Mage. I feel a binge coming on...