REVIEW: "Krampus!" by Brian Jones, Dean Kotz

Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Type: Graphic Novel, Comic Books, Holiday, humor, Friendly Neighborhood Krampus!

About the Book: Meet the Krampus, yuletide terror and punisher of wicked children. Long imprisoned for his outdated methods, the holiday horror suddenly finds himself freed and tasked with a mission: recover the stolen power of the Secret Society of Santa Clauses! With his flying wolf Stutgaard, the Krampus crosses the globe, encountering various figures of winter lore and uncovering a sinister scheme to topple the Santas and change Christmas as we know it forever! Collects Krampus! #1-5 and extras, including all-new material. [Summary provided by Goodreads.com]

My Review: I saw this on Netgalley and couldn't pass up the chance to read it. I was looking for something to get me in the Christmas spirit - and what better than Krampus! For those unfamiliar with the story of Krampus, check out the Wikipedia page, it's worth a read. I'm not sure how close this version of Krampus is to the original, but I can say it was a fun, holiday-themed read!

I chuckled quite a few times while reading this graphic novel, and I couldn't wait to see what Winter or Christmas themed object or character they would throw in next. If you're looking for something wow worthy, this will probably let you down (hence why it isn't a full five star rating), but if you want a fun read while curled up under the blankets with a mug of hot cocoa? This is the perfect book for you.

Cover Lovin': How could you turn down a cover like that? Definitely eye-catching. Totally gets you in the holiday spirit!

Recommendation: For fans of humorous graphic novels. Or maybe for people that just love reading anything Christmas-y around the holiday.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5). Hilarious! Great fun. Definitely worth a read.

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

REVIEW: "Luminae" by Bengal

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-copy of this graphic novel in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Type: Graphic Novel, Comic Book, Series, Book One, Magic, Demons, Dragons, Light vs. Dark, Fantasy, Thong Armor is Totally Impractical

About the Book: Six young warriors are tasked with protecting the mysterious Luminae, a holy creature of Light in exile from those forces of Darkness that would decimate humanity. When one of the warriors disappears, the others know it is the sign of a superior evil soon to arrive. A stylish dark fantasy by the celebrated artist of Naja and Meka. [Summary from Goodreads.com]

My Review: Nope. Just nope. I wish I could saw I enjoyed this, because it sounded really cool. But readers are thrown right into the middle of a story, with no explanation as to what is going on or why some of these people are important. While the several small story-lines are clearly all part of some over arching dangerous plot, there is no transition from one story-line to the next. So you go from girls searching for their sister to a king talking to his adviser, then suddenly to a kid in a village, with no apparent rhyme or reason.

This had a lot of potential, really. I think the story itself could have used more editing, especially when it came to transitions. Also, I was not a fan of the art. I liked the colors, though several of the characters ended up looking very similar due to their coloring. But what really made me roll my eyes, groan, and grumble were the outfits. Seriously? Why would this warrior girls be wearing thongs and a shirt? Not logical, in the slightest. And even when one character activated her special power, which created some seriously awesome looking armor - her thong was still clearly visible, which means her hips and thighs were very vulnerable. To the writer and artist - trust me, you can make women look sexy in armor without skimpy underwear.

Cover Lovin': This is a very eye catching cover. The art and color lines were what originally attracted me to this graphic novel.

Recommendation: For readers of graphic novels, and people who enjoy weird things with little explanation? In general: Not really recommended.

Final Rating: TWO out of FIVE stars. I saw some potential there, but this fell so flat. You can't have a huge fantasy world like this and then give it so little description, build up, or.. I don't know, explanation. 

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

Check out author Pepper O'Neal at Black Opal Books!

Author Pepper O'Neal (previously featured at Novel Addiction!) had a book released earlier this year, and I think it deserves a little more promotion.

Blurb for "Dead Men Don't" by Pepper O'Neal

A strange man has come to save her...but is he friend or foe?

       Anderson Merritt’s been kidnapped, but when a stranger comes to rescue her, she isn’t sure he 

is who he says he is. He claims to work her father’s boss. But someone close to Andi set her up, 

and now she doesn’t know who to trust. Every man she’s ever known has seen her only as a tool 

to get to her father or his money, so why should this one be any different? As the sparks between 

them ignite, and the danger escalates, Andi has to choose—go off on her own, or trust that some 

men really are what they seem.

He doesn’t want to hurt her...but he may have to if she doesn’t come willingly.

      Ex-CIA black ops specialist Levi Komakov doesn’t believe in hurting women, but when the 

place is set to blow and Andi won’t cooperate, he has no choice to but toss her over his shoulder 

and carry her out of danger, determined to keep her safe in spite of herself. But the beautiful 

little spitfire doesn’t make it easy for him. With her abductors seemingly always one step ahead 

of him, Levi suspects there’s a rat in the woodpile, but who? Could it be someone close to 

Andi’s father, someone in the FBI, or someone in the family Levi works for? When a new threat 

appears, and even the CIA can’t help him keep Andi safe, Levi puts everything on the line—but 

will it be enough?

A bit about Pepper O'Neal:

Award-winning author, Pepper O’Neal is a researcher, a writer, and an adrenalin junkie.

She has a doctorate in education and spent several years in Mexico and the Caribbean

working as researcher for an educational resource firm based out of Mexico City. During

that time, she met and befriended many adventurers like herself, including former CIA

officers and members of organized crime. Her fiction is heavily influenced by the stories

they shared with her, as well her own experiences abroad.


O’Neal attributes both her love of adventure and her compulsion to write fiction to her

Irish and Cherokee ancestors. When she’s not at her computer, O’Neal spends her time

taking long walks in the forests near her home or playing with her three cats. And of


course, planning the next adventure.

BUY LINKS:
Check out Pepper O'Neal's books on Black Opal Books!
Find Pepper O'Neal on Amazon!
Find Pepper's books on Barnes and Noble!
And finally, make sure to check out Pepper on Goodreads for even more book information!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Novel Addiction ~!~

REVIEW: Frankenstein: Dover Graphic Novel Classics by Mary Shelley

Disclaimer: I received a free, e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Type: Graphic Novel, Comic Book, Classics, Dover Graphic Novel Classics, Teen, Young Adult, Who is really the monster here?

About the Book: Generations of readers have thrilled to the story of a young doctor who dared to play God and the horrible consequences of his experiment. This graphic novel offers an easy-to-read version of Mary Shelley's classic of Gothic horror. Original illustrations, accompanied by condensed narrative and dialogue, bring new life to an enduring tale. This Dover Graphic Novel Classic offers readers ages 8 and up an exciting introduction to a time-honored tale. Expertly abridged and packed with dramatic illustrations, this version offers a streamlined narrative that retains all of the storytelling essentials. [Synopsis from the publisher.]

My Review: This graphic novel version of Mary Shelley's classic novel "Frankenstein" is on par with the rest of the series. These short, easy to read graphic novels are a great way to revisit classic literature without taking up a huge chunk of your day. But the key word is short. At just under 40 pages, this is not enough to give you the full gist of the novel.

Like the other Dover Graphic Novel Classics reviewed on Novel Addiction (See Dracula and Sherlock Holmes), these would be best used as a read-along, or a revisit of an old favorite. For example, I would eagerly hand this out to a student struggling with the imagery and language of Frankenstein.

But what this graphic novel does well is convey the story and emotion of the original novel. Of all the Dover Graphic Novel Classics I have read thus far, this one would probably be the worst. Still a solid three stars, but it needed to be longer.

Cover Lovin': This fits in perfectly with the rest of the Dover Graphic Novel Classics line. Black and white with just an eye-catching splash of red.

Recommendation: For readers that want a quick refresh of the original novel. Not recommended as a solo read - it doesn't even come close to capturing the whole novel.

Final Rating: THREE out of FIVE stars (3/5).

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

CORA CARMACK'S "INSPIRE" releases TODAY!!

***SPECIAL NOTE!***

 From now until December 20th, INSPIRE will be just $2.99!!

 

We are so incredibly excited to be able to bring you the Release Day Launch for Cora Carmack's INSPIRE! INSPIRE is a New Adult Paranormal Romance novel and the first book in her new Muse Series!! Holy canoli, y'all. Go out and get this today!

 Amazon | Barnes and Noble | iTunes |

Kobo About INSPIRE: Kalliope lives with one purpose. To inspire. As an immortal muse, she doesn’t have any other choice. It’s part of how she was made. Musicians, artists, actors—they use her to advance their art, and she uses them to survive. She moves from one artist to the next, never staying long enough to get attached. But all she wants is a different life— a normal one. She’s spent thousands of years living lie after lie, and now she’s ready for something real. Sweet, sexy, and steady, Wilder Bell feels more real than anything else in her long existence. And most importantly… he’s not an artist. He doesn’t want her for her ability. But she can’t turn off the way she influences people, not even to save a man she might love. Because in small doses, she can help make something beautiful, but her ability has just as much capacity to destroy as it does to create. The longer she stays, the more obsessed Wilder will become. It’s happened before, and it never turns out well for the mortal. Her presence may inspire genius. But it breeds madness, too.

  Excerpt: I can feel Wilder’s breath against my lips. More than that, I can see it. The sun has set and the temperature has dropped, and air fogs between us. There’s something about actually seeing it, like our lips are touching, we are touching, despite the distance between. And as we sway from side to side, my heart gradually begins to pick up speed. The strains of guitar music flowing out from the restaurant are nearly indecipherable over the heavy heartbeat in my ears. But Wilder must hear it. His hands are strong on my body, guiding my movements, and I’m practically clay in his palms. We dance, eyes on eyes, lips nearly on lips, and there is lightning beneath my skin each time his body brushes against mine in a new way. His touch is firm, but gentle, never pushing or pressuring, though I can tell from the dark look in his eyes that he’s just as affected as I am. The music shifts, building to a crescendo, and he spins us. My chest pushes tight against his, and I bite back a gasp. I don’t know if it’s the cold or him or some combination of both, but the tips of my breasts are painfully tight. Just the pressure of my bra is enough to rub them raw. I remember the night at his apartment, the way he’d taken his time learning my body. I think of the heat of his mouth on my skin, and the memory alone is enough to make me shiver and clench. He’s back to being business, grown-up Wilder tonight in his button down and glasses. Only now that I know him, it doesn’t seem like such a stark difference. He is neither the straight-laced man nor the tattooed bad boy. Or perhaps he’s both. Regardless of what he’s wearing, Wilder is caring and loyal and strong and so sexy that I’m having trouble remembering why I shouldn’t push him into the backseat of his SUV and crawl on top of him.

About Cora Carmack: Cora Carmack is a twenty-something writer who likes to write about twenty-something characters. She's done a multitude of things in her life-- boring jobs (like working retail), Fun jobs (like working in a theatre), stressful jobs (like teaching), and dream jobs (like writing). She enjoys placing her characters in the most awkward situations possible, and then trying to help them get a boyfriend out of it. Awkward people need love, too. Her first book, LOSING IT, was a New York Times and USA Today bestseller.        
 

Website ** Twitter ** Facebook ** Author Goodreads ** INSPIRE Goodreads

 

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REVIEW: "The Wicked + The Divine, Volume 1: The Faust Act" by Kieron Gillen

Disclaimer: I received a free, e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Type: Graphic Novel, Comic Book (5 issues), Mythology, Series, Image comics, Book 1, Look at that cover!, It's on FIRE!

About the Book: Every ninety years, twelve gods incarnate as humans. They are loved. They are hated. In two years, they are dead. The team behind critical tongue-attractors like Young Avengers and PHONOGRAM reunite to create a world where gods are the ultimate pop stars and pop stars are the ultimate gods. But remember: just because you’re immortal, doesn’t mean you’re going to live forever. Collects THE WICKED + THE DIVINE #1-5 (From Goodreads.com)

My Review: If you asked me to use one word to describe this book, it would be either "weird," or "Mythology?" - and yes, with the question mark on the end. I can see this series trying to be the next Lucifer or Sandman - and while it has potential, I don't want this series to get too big of a head.

The mythology aspect is original, and I loved that. I wish I had been given a few more answers by the end of book one. My favorite stories give me some answers, but still leave enough mystery to make me desperate for the next book - this story just left things open. I saw so much promise, and I was so interested in what was going on that I easily devoured all the issues contained in this graphic novel - and for that I'm giving it four stars.

Cover Lovin': Look at this awesome cover. A burning feather is totally eye catching if you saw that on the shelf, or while browsing an online book retailer. I also really appreciate the upside down letters for the second half of the title.

Recommendation: For mythology lovers, people that like weird and possibly confusing story lines.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars. This storyline may not give you all the answers you're desperate for, but I like weird - and this worked for me. Can't wait for more!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

REVIEW: "The Roommates: True Tales of Friendship, Rivalry, Romance, and Disturbingly Close Quarters" by Stephanie Wu

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

Type: Nonfiction, Essays, Roommates are the Devil (sometimes?), Happy Endings and Will This Ever End?-ings

About This Book: In Stephanie Wu's The Roommates, people of all ages reveal their disastrous, hilarious, and sometimes moving stories of making their best friend for life or lifelong nemesis. Learn what it’s like to share a room in places as unusual as a thirty-person beach house, a billionaire’s yacht, a reality show mansion, and a retirement hotel, and those as familiar as sleepaway camps, boarding schools, and college dorms. Put down your roommate’s dirty dishes and passive-aggressive Post-it’s for this eye-opening glimpse into how people live together in the modern age.

You’ll meet: The Amateur Taxidermist ∙ The Alcoholic Genius ∙ The Kleptomaniac ∙ The Rent Stiffer ∙ The Naked Nanna ∙ The Serial Roommate ∙ The Top Chef ∙ The Recovered Addict ∙ The Russian Missionary ∙ The Obsessive Lesbian ∙ The Impersonator ∙ The Party Poopers...and many more! (From Goodreads.com)
My Review: Recently, I have been considering a roommate, because hey... having someone else helping out with rent seems like a great idea! And then this book was sent to me - I thought it was fate. I enjoy some hilarious real-life experience essays, so I was looking forward to diving into "The Roommates." But here's the thing - this isn't just a hilarious grouping of essays. There are some funny parts, for sure, but these are real tales, so there are some disgusting stories, sad stories, happy endings, etc. It's a nice mix, but with the whimsical cover, I expected much more hilarity.

I know these are essays written by people who actually experienced these horrifying living situations, but I wish some of the essays had a little bit more editing. There was one story that stuck in my mind - basically the writer started the story, continued in a confusing tone, and then suddenly went back to the beginning to add a few points, then just finished. Giving the contributors a little help in the final editing process wouldn't hurt.

That said, this was an entertaining read, and something you could either do in one sitting, or take your time.

Cover Lovin': This cover could be really busy - but it works with the subject matter. The cover is eye catching and definitely lends itself to a closer look if someone saw it on the shelf.

Recommendations: For people who have had awkward roommate experiences. Or maybe for people who are considering roommates and want to see some good and bad examples - it helps having an idea of what you might be getting into!

Final Rating: THREE out of FIVE stars (3/5). This book was interesting. Fun. Good, but not great. The essays could do with some editing, but that didn't take away from an enjoyable read.

Happy Reading!
~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

REVIEW: "Jim Butcher's Dresden Files: War Cry" by Jim Butcher

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Release Date: November 11, 2014

Type: Graphic Novel, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Wizards, Wardens, Vampires, Series, Harry Dresden Mostly Knows What He's Doing (Or Not)

About This Book: A war is raging between the vampire forces of the Red Court and the White Council - a war that the wizards are losing. So desperate are the Council that they've dragooned the experienced and the outcast to reinforce their thinning ranks of Wardens. One of these draftees is one Harry Dresden, Chicago's only wizard-for-hire and a guy who's long been looked upon with suspicion by the supernatural authorities. Now, he's one of them, and his first big mission as a Warden is a doozy: take a small team of greenhorns to a frigid town in the middle of nowhere to rescue a handful of mortals who've been targeted by the Red Court. The question is, why exactly are these particular mortals so crucial to the outcome of the war? The answer will come only if Harry can keep them, and his team, alive for one very long night. This graphic novel collects the critically acclaimed, five-issue series in one volume, and features a bonus section with Jim Butcher's original story outline, sketchbook artwork from Carlos Gomez, cover gallery with roughs from Stjepan Sejic, and more!

My Review: I'm a busy person. I have a full time job, volunteer opportunities, plus plenty to take care of in my home life... so I don't always get the chance to re-read old favorites, and revisit old worlds. So I'm grateful that these graphic novels exist. War Cry is the perfect way to visit Dresden's world, to experience his life for a little longer, without having to commit to re-reading one of the books (which is something that should be savored, and can therefore take some time).

War Cry is a fantastic story, and I'm giving major kudos to the authors for managing to fit everything that happens into a book that is, what, a little over 100 pages? And they do it well - at no point did the story feel rushed, or get jumbled because too much was happening at once. My eyes were glued to the page, desperate to see how Harry would manage to get himself out of yet another bad situation (poor guy).

In short, this is a great read for fans of the series. It is not recommended for newbies to Dresden's world, since it requires some previous knowledge of the Wardens, the vampires, etc. I will say, for readers that have not caught up on Dresden's story, that this graphic novel does an excellent job of explaining what is going on now, why they are doing what they are doing, and where it fits in. So enjoy!

Cover Lovin': This is a great one. We see the team of four Wardens ready to do battle - with Harry front and center. The artist even manages to get each character's personality traits to shine in their expressions.

Recommendation: For fans of the series! The great story and wonderful artwork would make this a great read for anyone, but I doubt anyone but fans of the Dresden Files would get much out of this, as they don't have the extensive back story.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5).

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

Felicity Heaton Blog Barrage: HER AVENGING ANGEL - Giveaway and details how to enter included!

Her Avenging Angel, the seventh book in New York Times best-seller Felicity Heaton’s hot paranormal romance series, Her Angel, is now available in ebook and paperback. To celebrate the release, she’s holding a FANTASTIC GIVEAWAY at her website.

Find out how to enter the Her Avenging Angel international giveaway (ends October 26th) and be in with a shot of winning a $75, $50 or $25 gift certificate at her website, where you can also download a 6 chapter sample of the novel: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/her-avenging-angel-romance-book.php

Here’s more about Her Avenging Angel, including an excerpt from this paranormal romance novel.

Her Avenging Angel (Her Angel Romance Series Book 7)
Felicity Heaton
Once a proud angel of Heaven, Nevar is now a servant of Hell, bound to a new master—the King of Demons. Consumed by darkness and driven to seek revenge, he set in motion a series of events that awakened the Great Destroyer, a force that will bring about the apocalypse. Now, he is the creature’s master and the fate of our world rests in the hands of an angel with only darkness in his heart.

Lost in the mortal realm without any recollection of how she came to be there, Lysia is only aware that she has survived a great battle. When she stumbles into a demon bar, she finds more than a chance to discover what happened to her—she finds a dark and deadly angel warrior who stirs fire in her veins and awakens soul-searing passion she cannot deny.

With the mounting threat of the Great Destroyer, the forces of Heaven and Hell against him, and a band of dangerous angels intent on capturing Lysia on his heels, can Nevar protect the beautiful woman who is light to his darkness and find the strength to save the world?

Her Avenging Angel is available from Amazon Kindle, Kobo Books, Barnes and Noble Nook, Apple iBooks stores and other retailers. Also available in paperback. Find the links to your preferred retailer at: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/her-avenging-angel-romance-book.php

Her Avenging Angel – Excerpt

Nevar turned down the alley that would bring him to Cloud Nine.

He stopped and frowned. The sign was off and there was no queue of mortals, but the club was open. What was going on? Only one way to find out. He walked towards the door.

The bouncer acknowledged him with a jerk of his chin and he pushed past the huge demon male and stepped into the club.

The lights were on inside, the colourful ones above the bar bathing the area and the demons milling around along its length. No music though.

No mortals.

His gaze sought the female he had met before, although he wasn’t sure why. It had been days since his last visit. She would be long gone, and it was stupid of him to hope that she would still be around, or remotely interested in him.

He headed for the bar, his eyes still scanning the demons for the woman even when he told himself to let her go and shove her out of his head.

A blonde cut into his path, her hands firmly planted on her hips, pale against her red jeans. A flicker of darkness danced in her eyes. Her stance caused her chest to jut upwards, showing off ample cleavage in her low cut black camisole. She narrowed her gaze on him and looked as if she was about to lose her pretty façade, revealing the hideous monster that lurked beneath her skin.

The boss.

And she was pissed about something.

He scanned the club again, frowning as he noticed that the demons present were jittery too, disturbed for some reason. Had something happened?

If it had, he wasn’t sure why the boss was holding him responsible, and the intense glare she was giving him said she definitely thought it was his fault.

“Do something,” she snapped, sharp teeth flashing between her glossy red lips, and flicked her short hair away from her face.

He arched an eyebrow down at her. “I don’t follow. What is your problem?”

She turned and pointed, and the crowd parted.

Nevar’s jaw almost dropped.

The female was there, curled up and sleeping on the grimy black bar top, naked again.

But not exposed.

Dark leathery wings wrapped around her slender form, cocooning her.

His feet moved of their own accord, carrying him across the room to her, unable to resist the powerful pull he felt towards her. The demons stepped back, making more room and allowing him and the boss to pass and approach the female.

What was she?

He cocked his head and his eyes darted over her before settling on her face. She was even more beautiful in sleep, her face soft and peaceful.

“She’s been sleeping there since the other night and she’s ruining my business. I can’t let mortals in when there’s a demon asleep on the bar.” The bite in the boss’s tone caused several demons nearby to edge further away and exchange nervous glances. “Do something.”

The blonde had a reputation as a hard-ass bitch with a temper, but he was damned if she was going to order him around. He had enough bosses in his life already.

“Tell her to leave then.” He cast her a glance as he folded his arms across his chest and shrugged. “It’s not my problem.”

She flashed twin rows of deadly sharp teeth on a hiss. “I tried that… and the bitch attacked me and started ranting. None of us could understand her.”

Nevar struggled to hold back the grin that tried to curve his lips as he thought about the boss getting a taste of her own medicine, served to her by such a delicate looking female. It was probably long past due and was definitely time someone had the balls to stand up to the demon owner of Cloud Nine.

He looked back at the woman sleeping on the bar and drew closer to her, feeling light and hazy as he approached her, as if he wasn’t quite with the world.

She had refused to leave the club. Why?

He had his answer when her eyelids fluttered and slowly opened, revealing sleep-filled hazel eyes that brightened as they settled on him.

She sat up, her black wings falling away from her body to drape across the bar top.

“I waited for you.”

He felt strange on hearing those words leaving her soft lips, as if they had cast a spell on him all over again and pulled him deep under it, leaving him suffused with warmth and peace.

“Can you understand the bitch like the bartenders said you could?” the boss said from beside his elbow and he nodded.

“I can. I don’t speak her language but I know what she’s saying, and she understands English.”

The blonde snarled, “Tell her to leave then or things will get ugly.”

Nevar had no doubt that things would only get ugly for the boss. The little female on the bar could probably lay the whole club to waste without breaking a sweat. What was she?

“I shall ask her nicely for you.” Nevar smirked at the boss and then turned his attention back to the female. “You have to leave.”

Her face lit up, she hopped down from the bar, landing close to him, her bare body almost brushing his, and smiled. “I will leave with you.”

Not quite what he had said and far from what he had intended, but he didn’t have the heart to tell her. He stared down into her eyes, picking out all the flecks of gold amongst green, lost in her all over again.

She stretched, raising her arms high above her head and flashing the entire room. Several of the male demons suddenly looked less nervous and more as if they might risk their balls by pouncing on her.

Nevar growled at them all and used his powers to produce jeans and a top.

He shoved them at her. “Dress.”

She took them and stared down at them, and he began to wonder if she had any concept of clothing and dressing herself.

He snarled at her. “Put them on or I swear I will break your wings off and dress you myself.”

She shrank back against the bar and curled her wings behind her, shielding them with her body as she eyed him with a flicker of fear colouring her face and her feelings.

Nevar sighed, pinched the bridge of his nose and breathed slowly. Utter bastard. Maybe he was better off in Hell, stuck in a room on guard duty, away from the world. He wasn’t fit to be near other people, and definitely not her.

He drew in another slow breath, exhaled it and lowered his hand to his side.

“You cannot walk around naked,” he said, trying a gentler approach, one worthy of such a beautiful female. “You must dress.”

She nodded, turned her back on him and set the clothes down on the bar. When she grabbed the jeans and bent forwards to put them on, flashing her bare backside at every male in the bar, Nevar growled and called his wings. They burst from his back, knocking a few of the demon males away, and he used them to shield her from their hungry eyes.

She shimmied into the black jeans and then held the silver-grey halter-top up, staring at it for so long that he realised she wasn’t sure how it worked and was trying to figure it out.

“Here.” He caught hold of her left wrist and spun her to face him, doing his best to keep her shielded by his black feathered wings and keep his eyes off her bare breasts. He took the top from her and eyed her leathery wings. “Can you make them go away?”

She shook her head. “Not right now. I am hungry. Weak. I require sustenance.”

“Same here.” But he didn’t think he was going to get his order of pulled pork buns and chicken wings now. The boss would kick him out as soon as the female was dressed and ready to leave.

He sighed again and pushed the image of delicious food from his mind. He could find somewhere to eat once he had lured her out of the club and ditched her.

He crouched in front of her and opened the tube of material that formed the lower half of the halter-top. “We will do this the hard way then. Step into it.”

She did as instructed and he slowly tugged the top up her long legs, biting back a groan as the feel of her thighs against his hands and his position had him instantly rock hard in his loincloth. No one would notice with his armour in place, but he didn’t like how quickly his body responded to her, or that they might see the effect she had on him.

She might see.

Was it because she was a demon and he was subconsciously thinking about her giving him Euphoria? Was his body hard-wired to see a female demon now and automatically prepare for sex?

He ground his teeth and cursed himself.

If it was, then it was his own damned fault.

He would ditch her as soon as he could and continue his mission, and forget all about Euphoria. He didn’t need it. He wouldn’t go back to whoring himself for a fix. It wasn’t worth the pain and humiliation.

If he wanted pain and humiliation, he could just return to Hell.

“Pull it up over your chest.” Nevar averted his gaze and rose to his feet.

She wriggled in the corner of his vision and then grumbled something as her arms moved. She waved the two lengths of fabric that were designed to hold the top up.

“What do these do?”

Nevar took them and placed them around her neck, and slowed as her silken hair brushed his skin and the heat of her washed over him, becoming painfully aware of how close she was to him, the bar at her back stopping her from being able to move away.

He breathed in her sweet dewy fragrance and savoured the soft warmth of her skin as his thumbs brushed her neck. He drank in her beauty as she tilted her head back, bringing her eyes up to his, and listened to her breathing as it hitched with each sweep of his skin across hers. She filled all of his senses, stealing his awareness of the world from him and narrowing it down to only her. He stared down into her eyes, mesmerised by the way they widened and overflowed with dark allure, and how her lips parted, tempting him to taste her and making him hunger for her.

He swallowed hard, forgetting what he was meant to be doing, transfixed by her and lost in the moment.

“I told you not to linger.” Asmodeus’s deep voice rumbled through the silent room and shattered the spell she had cast on Nevar. “I should have known you would.”

Nevar drew back and looked over his right shoulder, towards his dark master.

Asmodeus’s golden eyes fell on the female and widened. “What is she?”

Nevar kept asking himself the same thing.

Her Avenging Angel is available from Amazon Kindle, Kobo Books, Barnes and Noble Nook, Apple iBooks stores and other retailers. Also available in paperback.

Find all the links, a fantastic 6 chapter downloadable sample of the book, and also how to enter the giveaway and be in with a shot of winning a $75, $50 or $25 gift certificate at her website: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/her-avenging-angel-romance-book.php

Books in the Her Angel paranormal romance series:

Book 1: Her Dark Angel – FREE in ebook at selected retailers

Book 2: Her Fallen Angel

Book 3: Her Warrior Angel

Book 4: Her Guardian Angel

Book 5: Her Demonic Angel

Book 6: Her Wicked Angel

Book 7: Her Avenging Angel

About Felicity Heaton:

Felicity Heaton is a New York Times and USA Today international best-selling author writing passionate paranormal romance books. In her books, she creates detailed worlds, twisting plots, mind-blowing action, intense emotion and heart-stopping romances with leading men that vary from dark deadly vampires to sexy shape-shifters and wicked werewolves, to sinful angels and hot demons! If you're a fan of paranormal romance authors Lara Adrian, J R Ward, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Gena Showalter and Christine Feehan then you will enjoy her books too.

If you love your angels a little dark and wicked, the best-selling Her Angel series is for you. If you like strong, powerful, and dark vampires then try the Vampires Realm series or any of her stand-alone vampire romance books. If you’re looking for vampire romances that are sinful, passionate and erotic then try the best-selling Vampire Erotic Theatre series. Or if you prefer huge detailed worlds filled with hot-blooded alpha males in every species, from elves to demons to dragons to shifters and angels, then take a look at the new Her Angel series.

If you want to know more about Felicity, or want to get in touch, you can find her at the following places:

Website: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk

Blog: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/blog/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/felicityheaton

Twitter: http://twitter.com/felicityheaton

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/felicityheaton

A HUGE thank you to Felicity Heaton for sharing her book release celebrations with us here at Novel Addiction! Make sure to check out the giveaway (link above), and find out more about the amazing books Felicity has written.

Happy Reading!
~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

COVER REVEAL: "City Lights" by Julie Morgan!

City Lights by Julie Morgan Cover Reveal

Synopsis:

Music brought them together. A gamble with love could break them apart.

Blaine has reached rock and roll stardom. After surviving an overdose, Blaine was forced into a decision; change and be a better person, or continue down the dangerous path and lose everything he has worked for. Making the decision to change, he turns his focus and attention to writing and producing music in an effort to keep the bright lights of live performances and potential drugs at an arms distance. 

Bassist to the band Blaine is producing, Penelope knows all too well who he is. He’s the sexy as hell, but also drug addicted singer of the mega band, Deep Ember. As excited as she is to get her band signed, she’s none too thrilled to find out her producer is Blaine. Leaving her boyfriend back home to follow her dreams, Penelope will find herself in uncomfortable situations with Blaine. He’s expressed a genuine interest in her and she feels drawn toward him in return. Unfortunately, knowing who he is and what he’s done puts up an invisible wall between them.

Emotions will be on the line and chords will be played… but can Blaine win over the heart of a woman who’s made it clear she wants nothing to do with him? Will Penelope be able to trust her emotions and will Blaine be able to prove he is not what his reputation says he is?

So what do you think of City Lights? This is Blaine's story, who you met in Southern Roots, book one in the series. I had a great time writing the story and even more fun creating the image. 

Thanks go out to Jordan Hill, the model featured on the cover, photography by Michael McCann and illustrations by Stella Price.

Look for City Lights when it publishes October 28th!

About the Author

Originally from Burleson, Texas Julie always had a love of books, especially paranormal stories. Julie finally took the leap and began writing with encouragement from her family. 
Having worked in IT her entire career, Julie now spends her free time writing. Living in Central Florida with her husband and daughter, her favorite pastime is reading children's stories to her daughter, especially those around animals.

Connect with Julie Morgan:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juliemorganbook
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JulieMorganBook
Blog: http://juliemorganbooks.com/
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/juliemorgan
Good Reads: https://www.goodreads.com/juliemorganbooks

Southern Roots buy links:

Amazon

B&N

REVIEW: "Dracula" by Bram Stoker & John Green (Dover Graphic Novel Classics)

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-galley of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Release Date: November 19, 2014

Type: Dover Graphic Novel Classics, Graphic Novel, Classic, Historical, Science Fiction, Vampires, Fast Reads, Black and White, Rawr

About the Book: Readers will be spellbound by this graphic novel version of Bram Stoker's "Dracula."""The granddaddy of all the modern vampire stories, the immortal tale unfolds in a gripping journey into the past that recounts a Victorian-era struggle against ancient evil. Original illustrations add an extra allure to this easy-to-read edition.
This Dover Graphic Novel Classic offers readers ages 8 and up an exciting introduction to a time-honored tale. Expertly abridged and packed with dramatic illustrations, this version offers a streamlined narrative that retains all of the storytelling essentials.

My Review: This graphic novel started off well. I curled up in a dimly lit room on a dark and stormy night, huddled under a massive pile of blankets to keep out the October chill... and then I was left feeling very "meh" after reading a Vampire classic! Like the previously reviewed "Sherlock Holmes: Hound of the Baskervilles" graphic novel, "Dracula" is short, around 50 pages. I figured it would be a quick, fun read - but this left me feeling more agitated than anything. 

The graphic novel has very clunky and confusing scene changes. The rush from Dracula's castle to England is a blur, and often locations would change while on the same page. My biggest suggestion is that this graphic novel could really benefit from 1. being longer, and 2. some scene change or even "intermission" style artwork. 

I would gladly read a longer version of a "Dracula" graphic novel if it was more true to the original. The story here was not changed at all, but it was hard to care about the characters or the situation when so much is cut out or rushed along.

Hoping for better in the next Dover Graphic Novel Classics release!

Cover Lovin': Good cover! Dracula looks appropriately horrifying, and this is definitely something that would catch someone's eye. 

Recommendation: This graphic novel adaptation is definitely for serious fans of the book, or for someone that just wants a good brush up. Not suggested for people who are looking for their first taste of the classic. 

Final Rating: TWO POINT FIVE out of FIVE stars (2.5/5). This was a very disappointing adaptation of the amazing original. It was clunky and the scene changes were rough. Only recommended if you're desperate for a Dracula refresher or board during your flight to Transylvania. 

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

Review: "Ares: Bringer of War" by George O'Connor

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Release Date: January 27, 2015

Type: Graphic Novel, History, Greek Mythology, Mythology, Ares, The Iliad, War of the Gods, Book 7, Series, So Much Death and Destruction

About the Book: The myth continues in the tenth year of the fabled Trojan War where two infamous gods of war go to battle. The spotlight is thrown on Ares, god of war, and primarily focuses on his battle with the clever and powerful Athena. As the battle culminates and the gods try to one-up each other to win, the human death toll mounts. Who will win this epic clash of power? And how many will have to die first?

My Review: This volume felt like a let down when compared to the previous ones - especially the Poseidon and Aphrodite volumes, since those were particularly awesome. The art is still on par with the rest of the series, but it was the story itself that didn't work for me.

I didn't like this volume as much as the previous ones. The author decided to take on The Iliad for Ares' story and it became a confusion of names more than once. Unless the reader is already familiar with the story, this would have been a bumbling mess. But the quality of the previous volumes is still there. 

That said, I think this would be a great companion story to anyone working their way through the Iliad. The rest of the series I recommend giving to anyone struggling in a mythology class, or maybe just someone who can't stop devouring mythology books - but this volume isn't something I would just hand to someone. It almost feels like it comes with some extra homework.

I am hopeful there will be more books in this series. George O'Connor does a fantastic job capturing the Greek myths in graphic novel form. And hey - he hasn't even finished the 12 Olympians, so he better keep going!

Cover Lovin': Well done on the cover. It matches the rest of the series, and I'd say this battle cry stance fits the god of war perfectly.

Recommendations: For fans of Greek Mythology, and Graphic Novels. This would be a good companion for a high school or college student reading the Iliad, as well.

Final Rating: TWO POINT FIVE out of FIVE stars (2.5/5). As stated above, this seems like a step down in quality compared to the previous books in the series. Unless the reader has a good grasp of Greek history and/or the happenings of the Iliad, this book will seem like an info dump.

Happy Reading!
~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

Review: "Neil Gaiman's The Last Temptation 20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition" by Neil Gaiman, Alice Cooper, Michael Zulli, Dave McKean

Disclaimer: I received a free, advance e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Release Date: October 21, 2014

Type: Graphic Novel, Anniversary Edition, Re-release, Horror, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Music, Comic Book, The Theatre from Heck

About the Book: Neil Gaiman (Sandman, Coraline, American Gods) brings shock rocker Alice Cooper's concept album to life in a surreal sideshow of the soul! Join a young boy named Steven on a surreal journey of the soul, as an enigmatic and potentially dangerous Showman seduces him into joining his carnival. Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of this seminal Gaiman work, returned to print for the first time in over a decade. Fully remastered in color, this Deluxe Edition incorporates complete scripts to all three chapters, black-and-white thumbnail art of pre-colored pages, an original outline of the project by Neil Gaiman, and a collection of letters between shock rocker Alice Cooper and the author! "I'm really happy that The Last Temptation is coming out for a new generation of readers, who have not seen Michael Zulli's glorious drawings, or know of the Showman and his wicked ways," says Neil Gaiman. "I wrote this a long time ago, driven by love of Ray Bradbury's dark carnivals and of Alice Cooper's own pandemonium shadow show. It's time for it to shuffle out onto a leaf-covered street and meet the people who don't know about Stephen and Mercy and show what's coming to town."

My Review: As a fan of Both Neil Gaiman and Alice Cooper, I went into this graphic novel with high expectations... And I was definitely not disappointed! Working together, these two geniuses created a dark, haunting story that left me more than a little creeped out. The art was truly stunning, perfectly matching the storyline.

In full cover on my device, the pages were gorgeous, I can only imagine what this book looks like in all its physical glory. This is a must have for any true fan of these amazing artists. And even better, this story lends itself to re-reading, to catch all the subtle hints and tricks that have been weaved into the tale. I'm grateful I got the chance to go to read this graphic novel before it's re-release. Be sure to check it out when it comes out October 21, 2014!

Cover Lovin': Great cover - appropriately haunting, considering the masterminds behind the title.

Recommendation: For fans of Neil Gaiman and Alice Cooper. For graphic novel readers that want something weird and creepy to go along with your Halloween read-a-thong. Or maybe for people who just like weird stuff.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5). Creepy, awesome, and made me have a nightmare or two - a perfect read for Halloween, or really, any time.

Happy Reading!
~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

REVIEW: "Hades Speaks!" by Vicky Alvear Shecter

Disclaimer: I received a free, advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Release Date: September 1, 2014

Type: Nonfiction, Middle Grade, Juvenile, Teen, Mythology, Greek, Humor, Illustrated, Fun, Highway to Hades

About the Book: Hades, god of the dead, welcomes readers on a dangerous tour of his underworld kingdom, filled with monsters, furies, giants, and vampire demons. Along the way, he reveals ancient death rites and sinister curses, tells hair-raising stories, and cracks jokes to die for. With his witty voice and ghoulish sense of humor, Hades is the perfect guide through this fresh and imaginative work of nonfiction that reads like a novel. Includes a glossary, bibliography, and index.

My Review: This was a great nonfiction title that I would gladly give to both a juvenile and young adult audience. Written from Hades' perspective, the reader gets a tour through the Underworld, with tales of Greek myths and History thrown in. One of my favorite parts of the book was the punctuation guides, located throughout the text whenever an unfamiliar word was introduced, as well as in the glossary in the back.

The whole book contains a wonderful sense of humor, enough to keep anyone entertained while reading. There are mentions of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson, and I can see this as being a great gift for any Percy Jackson fan. The few illustrations in hand book were well done, and very artistic. There are a few I would gladly frame and add to my Halloween decor. 

Giving this book a four out of five stars for its originality, clarity, and amusing style.

Cover Lovin': This cover is pretty perfect for this book. The illustrations are appropriately haunting, considering the subject matter, but there is a hint at the humor you will find inside, in the smile that Hades is trying to hide.

Recommendation: For young fans of Greek mythology that want to read the stories from a different angle. Adults can enjoy this book as well, but this is definitely kid-centered.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5). Good book, fun to read, and I know it would be popular with both juveniles and teens at my library.

Happy Reading!
~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~

INSPIRE by Cora Carmack Cover Reveal!!

About INSPIRE:

Kalliope lives with one purpose.

To inspire.

As an immortal muse, she doesn’t have any other choice. It’s part of how she was made. Musicians, artists, actors—they use her to advance their art, and she uses them to survive. She moves from one artist to the next, never staying long enough to get attached. But all she wants is a different life— a normal one. She’s spent thousands of years living lie after lie, and now she’s ready for something real.

Sweet, sexy, and steady, Wilder Bell feels more real than anything else in her long existence. And most importantly… he’s not an artist. He doesn’t want her for her ability. But she can’t turn off the way she influences people, not even to save a man she might love. Because in small doses, she can help make something beautiful, but her ability has just as much capacity to destroy as it does to create. The longer she stays, the more obsessed Wilder will become. It’s happened before, and it never turns out well for the mortal.

Her presence may inspire genius.

But it breeds madness, too.

About Cora Carmack:

Cora Carmack is a twenty-something writer who likes to write about twenty-something characters. She's done a multitude of things in her life-- boring jobs (like working retail), Fun jobs (like working in a theatre), stressful jobs (like teaching), and dream jobs (like writing). She enjoys placing her characters in the most awkward situations possible, and then trying to help them get a boyfriend out of it. Awkward people need love, too. Her first book, LOSING IT, was a New York Times and USA Today bestseller.

And now for the big reveal......

REVIEW: "Federal Bureau of Physics Vol. 2: Wish You Were Here"

Disclaimer: I received a free advanced copy of this graphic novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Release date: September 30, 2014

Type: Graphic Novel, Series, Volume 2, Physics, Vertigo, Science Fiction, Alternate Reality

About the book: The mind-bending science fiction series FBP returns to the strange phenomena all over the world-and beyond.

Federal Bureau of Physics agents Rosa and Adam are invited to take part in an experiment that will test their limits and blur their concept of reality. And after a beautiful moment is shattered, Rosa and Adam get to see firsthand why Nakeet is known as the strangest town north of the 48.

This volume collects issues #8-13.

My Review: Well, this volume was certainly confusing. Definitely more so that the first book. It is incredibly hard to tell what is reality and what isn't, and the art doesn't give it away either. In volume one, I got a sense of the overall story, and I was therefore able to follow along with ease. But that linear storyline is missing here. 

This is not a series you can set down And pick up months later. From my experience, this is one of those books or graphic novel series that you have to continually read and re-read, especially right before the next issue releases. 

Now for the positive. Despite my dislike of the lack of difference between realities, I do love the art style used in this graphic novel. The different characters are distinct and the style is original. And it might be a silly, small thing, but I love the art between the chapters/issues.

Cover Lovin': Bright and eye catching, which is good. But it definitely makes more sense once you read the book.

Recommendation: For fans of the series, and people who just finished the first one.

Final rating: TWO POINT FIVE out of FIVE (2.5/5). Hard to follow, but the series concept is interesting, if you can keep up.

Happy Reading!
~!~ Amanda at Novel Addiction ~!~